On Saturday, Sept. 24, the newly renovated American Flag Ranch house was open to the public for the first time.
The ranch house served as the Territorial Post Office for the mining camp known as American Flag from 1880 – 1890. It is believed to be the oldest Territorial post office in the state that is still standing. For that one special day, the American Flag Post Office was in service for one day, thanks to Lori Havens and Monica Chavez from the Oracle Post Office who officially stamped American Flag Commemorative envelopes.
A good crowd showed up to enjoy the tour of the ranch house, music, and food. The food was provided by Just Tacos and Arizona Zipline Adventures. Organizations that set up information booths included the Oracle Piano Society, Arizona Trail, Friends of Oracle State Park, and the Oracle Dark Skies Committee. Music was performed by Jennifer Rinio and Ric Volante. Dr. John Huntington sang and played guitar.
The highlight of the evening was the raising of the replica of the 1877 34-star American Flag.
It was a fun time and raised funds for the Oracle Historical Society for the maintenance and continued restoration of American Flag Ranch.