The History of the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch (History Happy Hour)

Saddle Up for a Sip of History!

Join us for an engaging evening at the historic Ainsley House as we uncover the story of one of Santa Clara County’s most significant heritage sites: the Bernal-Gulnac-Joice Ranch.

Now part of Santa Teresa County Park, this beautifully preserved 20-acre site traces its roots back to Rancho Santa Teresa, a massive land grant awarded in 1834 to José Joaquín Bernal, one of San Jose’s earliest Spanish settlers.

For nearly 150 years, Bernal and his descendants worked the land—raising livestock, planting orchards, and adapting to the times with innovations like water bottling and fertilizer mining. Their story is one of resilience, stewardship, and deep connection to the land.

At this special History Happy Hour, we’ll explore:

• The ranch's transformation through generations of the Bernal, Gulnac, and Joice families

• How it became a living heritage site within Santa Teresa County Park

• The cultural significance of the Santa Teresa Spring to both Indigenous Ohlone communities and early settlers

• The efforts that helped preserve this rare piece of California ranching history from the wave of suburban development

? Enjoy a glass of wine and light refreshments as you step back into the 19th century with us.

?️ Tickets and Details:

Available now at campbellmuseums.com

Hosted by the Campbell Museums