The 2000 acre San Isabel Ranch in Westcliffe dates back to 1872 when William Kettle, an English immigrant, homesteaded the original 160 acres. He grew native hay and oats which he sold to the mines for horse and mule feed. The mining era faded and cattle became the main product. In 1916 the registered horned hereford operation, which is still going today was begun. William Kettles grandson Benjamin now maintains the ranch which at one time consisted of over 30,000 acres.