Local tradition holds that the Montoya family originally built the ranch as a community defense facility, possibly under the leadership of Pablo Antonio Garcia, during the time that conflicts with Native Americans were common in the region.  The second owners, the Louise Faris family, were Lebanese immigrants who operated the post office and a general store along with raising sheep, fruit, and vegetables.  The property may broaden our understanding of Hispano history and the largely undocumented history of Lebanese immigration to Colorado.