Vail Headquarters Celebrates National Historic Site, Trail Designation

TEMECULA, CA — This June, the Vail Headquarters celebrates its first full year of being recognized as a historic site and trail. It was a long road to get here, according to resident, author, and historian Rebecca Farnbach, who spoke on video at the State of the City 2024 address.

One year ago, the United States Department of the Interior designated the Vail Headquarters and the Butterfield Overland Trail extending through it in south Temecula. The headquarters at 32115 Temecula Parkway is full of shops, restaurants, tasting rooms, and experiences. But it wasn't always that way.

"To truly appreciate the significance of this achievement, we must recall a time when the historic buildings and footprint of this place which surrounds us here faced the threat of demolition," she said. Both Rebecca and her husband Darell Farnbach were the driving force behind that process. One building at the HQ was renamed "Darell's Garage" in his honor.

When you go, take a moment as you stroll the paths, and stop in the shade of the old Cottonwood tree to enjoy this authentically restored Old West Ranch. It stands proudly in an ongoing shopping center, ensuring that this part of Temecula's past is a vibrant puzzle piece for the valley's future.

According to Visit Temecula Valley, this shopping center is a place for the community to gather and enjoy the best of today's Temecula while soaking up the authentic reconstruction of the past.

"Thanks to decades of preservation and restoration efforts, Vail HQ is now a living historic park and destination for specialty restaurants, boutique shopping, and special events," they said. It is open daily to the public.

The triumph of this historic designation was not without a lengthy path, she said.

"Today, we stand in celebration of its success and in remembrance of those who played a crucial role in this preservation journey," Farnbach said. "What sets Vail Headquarters apart from many historical sites is the fact that this place is alive and flourishing, not a static old remnant, but as a dynamic part of the community."

What was the heart of Temecula in 1867 still beats today with the hustle and bustle of life. Indeed, concerts, a weekly farmers market, holiday events, and more have made this section of the Vail Ranch Shopping Center a vibrant part of Temecula's life.

The headquarters is not a "relic confined to the pages of history but a place meant to be experienced and explored by the community that shares in continuing its history. It is a community venue for special events, holiday happenings, shopping, and dining," Farnbach said.

According to Temecula Mayor James "Stew" Stewart, "the more we learn about our history, the past shows us that together we can overcome any challenges or obstacles."

When you visit the headquarters, sip coffee or wine, dine on delicious pizza or barbecue, or shop for a rare collectible. Take your time to invest in a new look or to create something unique.

We love Press Espresso, Smok'd Hog, The Daisy Bar, and Vail Pizzaria. Stop in for a sip at Marshall Stuart's Tasting Room, and make time for special events.

Head to the Farmers Market, a Sunday Funday, the Moonlight Market, a Night at the Ranch, and the VW Meetups in June.

"This encourages the community's greater awareness of history and brings a new audience for travelers seeking historical sites, one of many in the country," she says. Still, there are none quite like this.

Come and see what's in store this summer at the headquarters! Visit in person or online at www.vailhq.com.