Leo Carrillo Ranch

In the weeks after Pearl Harbor, Leo Carrillo wired Congressman Leland Ford about his weekly drive to this ranch. He counted a hundred miles of Japanese farmhouses along it and wanted the people in them moved inland. Ford had been defending Japanese American loyalty; he reversed, and became the first member of Congress to press the administration for the camps. Carrillo then gave eighteen years to the state parks commission and helped the state acquire Anza-Borrego. The bronze records only the second half.

What the plaque says

Leo Carrillo Ranch (Rancho de los Kiotes) Between 1937 and 1940, these adobe and wood buildings were built by actor Leo Carrillo as a retreat, working ranch, and tribute to old California culture and architecture. The Leo Carrillo Ranch, with its flying “LC” brand, originally covered 2,538 acres and was frequented by Carrillo and his friends until 1960. Leo Carrillo was a strong, positive, and well-loved role model who sought to celebrate California's early Spanish heritage, through a life of good deeds and charitable causes. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 1020 Plaque placed by the State Department of Parks and Recreation in cooperation with the City of Carlsbad, Friends of Carrillo Ranch, and Squibob Chapter, E Clampus Vitus, August 6, 1996.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Rancho Santa Fe — 7.3 mi
• Rancho Guajome — 7.9 mi
• Mission San Luis Rey de Francia — 9.1 mi
• Mule Hill — 11 mi