Some ranches retain their names long after the original owners sold. A perfect case is the Bare Ranch at the southern end of Surprise Valley. In 1880, Thomas Bare sold the ranch, though all these years it is still known by his name.
The Susan River Ranch appellation does not have that enduring name. The property located on Johnstonville Road a few miles east of Susanville. It was originally a part of the Bangham Ranch. In 1948 the property was acquired by Dale Soule. Construction of the house began in 1950 and over the course of time additional buildings were constructed. However, in time the property was too much for the Soules who had other business interests in Susanville to tend to. The next owner was Lawrence Holland and he owned until his death in 1969.
In 1973, Ray and Elberta Fraley purchased the ranch, who had spent many years in the Standish district. It was ideal for Ray as it just the ideal size for a semi-retirement ranch to raise his registered herd of Red Angus cattle. After Ray’s passing in 1979, Elberta sold the place. Its been through a number of owners over the years, though its no longer referred to as the Susan River Ranch.