African American women of the Old West by Wagner Tricia Martineau

Author:Wagner, Tricia Martineau
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: African American women pioneers, Women pioneers, African Americans, Frontier and pioneer life, Weibliche Schwarze, African American women pioneers, African Americans, Frontier and pioneer life, Women pioneers, Weibliche Schwarze
Publisher: Guilford, Conn. : TwoDot, an imprint of The Globe Pequot Press
Published: 2007-08-14T16:00:00+00:00

Home Sweet Home

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The town of Oracle was known for its natural beauty. It was 40 miles northeast of Tucson, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, but the climate was unsurpassed. At 4,500 feet above sea level, the pleasant weather was suitable for both health and recreation. It provided the perfect getaway during the hot summer season, which lasted for seven months. And mild temperatures during the winter months were conducive to comfortable breathing for those stricken with pulmonary afflictions. With doctors sending patients out West for the clear, dry, dust-free air, a health resort seemed sure to see big profits.

While the Acadia Ranch did have a general store and a post office, it was no more than a ranch house with a number of cottages and two large wells. The guests who frequented the ranch were distinguished, wealthy, health-seeking people who were willing to travel long distances for their well-being and pleasure. That gave Curly the idea of offering a resort on a much grander scale—and he knew that his Annie could manage such an enterprise perfectly.

Over the years the combination of the Neals land acquisitions, mining claims, their large 3N Ranch (named foi the tlnee Neals. Annie, Curly, and Josie), and their other successful business ventures provided them with great wealth. Additionally, theii piopeit) in the heart of Oracle was perfectly situated amid the scrub oak trees in the foothills of the 9,000-foot-high Santa Catalinas.

Perhaps Annie gradually began to look at their 160-acre property —-with its spectacular mountain views, lush green grass, and oak-shaded lawns—in a new light. She grew intrigued by the idea of a grand resort hotel, but wanted to take it a step further. Besides a plush resort, it would also be a recreational playground for the very wealthy. People could seek out their hotel not just to recuperate, but for pleasure as well. Annie decided to take on the project and would see that their hotel offered only the finest amenities. As pro-

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