An often asked question from visitors to our tasting room is “what is the history of the church at the entrance to the ranch and on the label?”
The San Ramon Chapel was built in 1875 by Frederick Wickenden, at the request of his wife, Ramona Foxen Wickenden. He drove 5,000 sheep to Redwood City, California and sold them, using the money to purchase redwood boards to build his home and the chapel. In 1879 the Chapel was officially dedicated as the San Ramon Chapel and services were held once a month. The chapel’s structure stood on stilts and due to that it was very cold and wind would often disrupt services. This caused attendance at the services to dwindle. The chapel eventually was only used for special ceremonies or baptisms. 
In July 1966, the San Ramon Chapel became the first official landmark in Santa Barbara County. On August 31, 1975 the chapel was dedicated as a State Historical Landmark #877. Following the dedication, Mass was celebrated by Father Bartin Foxen. This dedication marked the Chapel’s 100th birthday. In November 1976, Father Anthony Runtz, then Pastor of St. Louis de Montfort Church, agreed to restore regular services. Since that time, Mass has been held every Sunday at 10:30 AM.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the community, they have literally brought the chapel back to life. In 1979 the San Ramon Preservation Committee was formed and incorporated as a non-profit organization. Their job is to maintain the chapel and to preserve its historical integrity.