Background
The Modini Ranch Journals collection showcases journals and ledgers handwritten by James (Jim) Lawrence Modini and Shirley Nye Modini. The Modinis documented life on their Pine Flat Road ranch in northern California ranch for almost 70 years, from 1935 until 2005. The journal entries encompass a wide range of subjects, including weather, cattle and feed prices, wildlife sightings, events, sketches, and musings.
In 2000, the Modinis worked with the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District to designate their land as “forever wild”. In 2009, they donated the property to Audubon Canyon Ranch, a land conservation group that manages preserves in Sonoma and Marin counties.
Collection
Gift of Audubon Canyon Ranch in 2013 from the estate of James and Shirley Modini, the collection includes 46 journals and ledgers.
Access
The research material in the collection is available to view by appointment.
