The Steam Pump Ranch has been operating in the heart of Oro Valley since 1874. George Pusch, a German immigrant whose name was given to the nearby ridge, settled in the area and established a cattle ranch. To provide a consistent source of water for his herd, Pusch dug a well and powered it with a steam pump imported from Germany. This pump was unique because it was one of only two in the Arizona Territory. The Ranch soon became a popular watering hole and stagecoach stopping point and soon took on the name we know today. In 1933, the Ranch was sold to Jack Procter, owner of the Pioneer Hotel in Tucson. He used it as a family retreat from the city. His grandson, John Leiber, lived there for many years until the 15 acre property was acquired by the Town of Oro Valley in 2007. This area is quickly being developed with extensive retail and dining facilities. The city had the foresight to install this quaint little park before too much of the acreage became overgrown with buildings and parking lots. I wonder what the old cattle rancher would think of his land going the way of tar, brick and mortar. I would venture to say that he would not be too happy! Perhaps he still haunts the wash, eternally in search of a lost calf! I am sure there are many of you who know a lot more about this ranch. Feel free to add your stories about it in your log. Now on to the cache.
When you reach the coordinates for the first stage, look for something to scan with your fancy smart phone camera. If you do it correctly, the coordinates to the final stage will be magically revealed. It's a short walk to the final stage, but you may be huffing and puffing when you get there! No matter, the view will be worth the exercise. Enjoy the area and watch out for ouchy plants, desert critters, and grouchy ghosts.