Lone Wolf Colony
23200 Bear Valley Road
Sam Coldwell (Indian name, Lone Wolf) came to the
Victor Valley in 1922, looking to establish a retreat for World War
One vets recovering from mustard gas. He lived in Victorville in a
one-room cabin and worked for Home Telephone.
In 1926, with 250 volunteers from Pacific Bell,
the colony was developed in its present location. The living
quarters consisted of six tent houses, moved in one day from the
original location in Dry River Flats. A 6,000 square foot ranch
house and 10 one-room cabins were also built. The cabins were
rent-free to the employees and included meals.
Food was grown on the colony’s 20 acres.
Fundraisers such as boxing matches supported the colony. Sam died
in 1934 of tuberculosis and the colony was sold to Pacific Bell for
$1.00. Pacific Bell sold the colony to their employees in 1967 for
$1.00. United Way funded the colony from 1967 to 1983.
The Ranch is still used for recuperative
purposes, free of charge, to those who qualify. A letter from your
doctor stating a stay would be beneficial to your health is all
youneed. It is also available for families and group camping. There
is a reservoir used as a pool, a fully improved camping area that
will accommodate 57 units, an activities building, exercise
equipment, sauna, spa and library.
Currently, United Way and voluntary contributions
from telephone employees and families fund the colony. Additional
income comes from rental of the hall and grounds for camping,
weddings, company picnics and more.
- From the brochure Historical Points of Interest in
AppleValley
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