Modern History

Jim and Carol Gardner purchased Vandevert Ranch in 1987.  Jim was a Harvard graduate who had been president of Lewis and Clark College.  The Gardners rebuilt the homestead and developed the ranch into a high-end gated community (See the Developers Marketing Video and the Developers Brochure.)  In 1993 they opened the ranch up to homeowners.  The twenty-one lots sold quickly and, by 2002, there were fifteen houses on the ranch. 

In 1991 Jim Gardner drafted a document in which he attempted to describe the culture of the ranch derived from its natural features, its history, and the vision that he and Carol had for the ranch’s future.  He eventually called the document “Ranch and Community Culture of Vandevert Ranch”.  The characteristics that Jim articulated years ago still apply to the ranch today. 

Natural Beauty

Historic Integrity

Privacy

Low Density

Education and Recreation

Quality in Every Detail

Good Neighbor Philosophy and a Culture of Generosity