Steam Pump Ranch: A Living Piece of Oro Valley’s History
Overview
Steam Pump Ranch is a 16-acre historic site acquired by the Town of Oro Valley in 2008. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the ranch preserves the legacy of early irrigation, ranching and community life. Beautifully restored buildings sit among mature cottonwoods and native landscaping, offering a direct link to the region’s past and a vibrant venue for today’s residents.
Historical Significance
The ranch originated in the 1870s when a steam-powered pump was installed to irrigate orchards planted by John Romero. In 1932 Clarence Proctor built the Spanish Colonial Revival–style house now known as the Proctor-Leiber House. The original barn, stable and pump house reflect the evolution of agriculture and water management in the Sonoran Desert.
Site Features
- Pump House – Restored steam engine and interpretive displays on early irrigation technology
- Proctor-Leiber House – 1930s adobe residence undergoing condition assessment and future renovation
- Barn and Stable – Venue for agricultural demonstrations and equestrian programs
- Garage Building – Town offices and meeting space for local nonprofits
- Historic Landscape – Heritage orchards, native plant gardens and Hohokam canal remnants
Restoration Efforts
Since purchase, Oro Valley has invested over $1.5 million in site preservation. In early 2025 the Town secured a $30,000 Historic Preservation Heritage Fund grant plus a $20,000 local match to complete a Historic Building Condition Assessment for the Proctor-Leiber House. This report guides phased rehabilitation and supports grant applications to the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Arizona Heritage Fund.
Community Events and Markets
Steam Pump Ranch hosts year-round events that draw residents and visitors alike:
- Heirloom Farmers Market – Saturdays with local produce, baked goods and artisan crafts
- Second Saturdays – Free history tours, crafts for children and archaeology demonstrations by Archaeology Southwest
- Makers Market – Monthly showcase of local artists and makers
- Friday Night Concerts – Live music under the stars with views of the Catalina Mountains
Educational Programs
The Oro Valley Historical Society leads guided tours of the ranch, highlighting Hohokam irrigation, early ranch life and architectural styles. Archaeology Southwest partners with the Town to offer hands-on prehistoric artifact displays and canal-dig demonstrations, deepening community understanding of centuries-old desert cultures.
Volunteer and Support Opportunities
Community members can help preserve the ranch by:
- Volunteering as docents for tours and events
- Joining the Oro Valley Historical Society to support fundraising and advocacy
- Contributing photographs, oral histories and memorabilia for the town archives
- Donating to the Steam Pump Ranch Restoration Fund via the Town of Oro Valley website
Future Plans
With the condition assessment complete, the Town plans initial safety repairs in late 2025 and full renovation of the Proctor-Leiber House by 2027. The restored house will serve as a visitor center, event space and interpretive hub, ensuring Steam Pump Ranch remains a dynamic community asset.
Visitor Information
Steam Pump Ranch is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The Ranch Office at the Garage Building is staffed weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guided tours and event schedules are posted online.
For more information, visit the Town of Oro Valley page or the Oro Valley Historical Society.