First Generation
In 1918, Marion Rufus Struble purchased the ranch from the original owner, Dick Cook. Cook was part-owner of a saloon in Loomis. The ranch at that time was named Alta Vista, Spanish for “high view”, because of the spectacular 360-degree view from the top of the hill. Our farmhouse was built on the property’s highest elevation to take advantage of the majestic views and beautiful sunsets.
Second Generation
In 1934, Harold bought the farm from his father and married his high school sweetheart, Ruth Edgell. They raised their two sons, Bill and Jim, on the farm and lived on the property for over 60 years. In 1956, Harold first planted Owari Satsuma Mandarins with the help of two local farmers. In 1961, Harold and his sons cultivated and sold their first mandarin harvest to the public.
Third Generation
In 1976, Jim and Jan Struble moved to the farmhouse. And in 1984, we planted a second and larger grove of Owari Satsuma Mandarins. To provide an even greater variety of citrus we planted Clementine Mandarins, and Navel Orange trees on the property. The farming tradition is continuing to the fourth generation of Strubles as we enter our 64th citrus harvest.