Twenty one years ago Jan and Gary Peters bought what was known then as Campbell’s Ranch, which was originally established in 1925 as a 160 acre homestead by Bill and Elizabeth Campbell. Bill was a WWI veteran who returned from the war with burnt lungs from mustard gas and moved to 29 Palms, California to heal.
The Campbell’s became archaeologists and their legacy lives on through their field notes, photographs, and site notations along with thousands of well documented artifacts curated at Joshua Tree National Park and the Autry National Center in LA. The Campbell’s discoveries included the Pinto Basin site, which established the presence of Native Americans 7-9,000 years ago. The Southwest Indian Museum established a desert branch on the grounds of the Campbell Ranch.
Early history of the homestead included ownership for 17 years by Allie Wrubel, the composer of Zippity Doo Dah that won an academy award for the soundtrack for the film Song Of The South. Wrubel is well known for composing Gone With The Wind, and Lady From 29 Palms, among many others.
Gary retired from the Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel after 32 years, and Jan saw this as a perfect new adventure. They turned it into one of the finest Bed & Breakfast Inn’s in Southern California. Roughley Manor has been continuously recognized as a 5 Star lodging Inn by Trip Advisor for its exceptional guest service, beautiful grounds and historic buildings.
Jan and Gary have always said that they “felt like stewards of the Campbell Ranch for the people of Twentynine Palms” because of all its history. “We loved sharing it with the world” says Jan.
Across the secluded, and stunning 22-acre property, just minutes from Joshua Tree National Park, the Roughley Manor is surrounded by Washingtonia palms and Tamarisk trees. The Manor offers guests ample space to relax outdoors around the pool, in the gardens, and patio areas. There are twelve rooms, two located in the main house and 10 located throughout the grounds. The Manor welcomes families with children, and pets.
Jane and Paul Smith, and daughter Heidi Grunt, owners of the 29 Palms Inn feel that the Roughley Manor is truly an important landmark and piece of history in Twentynine Palms, California. The decision for them to acquire the property was made based on a desire to preserve, protect, and sustain the natural beauty of the property, and its rich history, for the local community and future generations to come.
Jan & Gary feel secure in the fact that the new owners, 4th generation owners of the historic 29 Palms Inn will preserve the legacy of Roughley Manor. Jan & Gary intend to continue residing in Twentynine Palms.
