The property, a nationally recognized nature preserve, was homesteaded in the 1930's by Ellen and Robert Dorland. Ellen Babcock Dorland was a world famous concert pianist in the early part of the 20th Century. A gifted music teacher as well, Mrs. Dorland dreamed of founding a artist's colony similar to the ones she had visited on the East Coast. Her friend Barbara Horton, a dedicated environmentalist, shared her dream and was instrumental in founding the colony. What began as a private retreat for friends evolved into Southern California's only residential artists' colony and an Internationally recognized haven for visual artists, writers and composers.
Average residencies are one month in length.
Shorter stays are discouraged, but occasional 2 to 3 week residencies are allowed. Dorland provides each artist with an individual cottage containing a simple kitchen, bathroom, living and working areas. The cottages are heated by woodstoves and lit by kerosene lamps. Stoves, water heaters, and refrigerators are fueled by propane. Basic kitchen utensils, linens and housewares are provided.