This article is a chronicle of the remarkable story of the Black Range Lodge Bed & Breakfast and Event Center – a story of one amazing woman, her vision for a historic property in the Gila National Forest and the remarkable journey that followed, a journey inextricably woven between past and present.
Catherine Wanek: A Tale of Talent and Passion
With a background as an assistant director in Hollywood’s film industry and an international speaker on the subject of “natural building”, Catherine is nothing short of remarkable. But who is Catherine Wanek, really?
The Hollywood Chapter
A New Mexico native, Catherine grew up in Las Cruces and graduated from the University of New Mexico with a degree in communication arts, eventually settling in Los Angeles where she became an assistant director and joined the Directors Guild of America. Passionate about film and aspiring to create uplifting stories, she started writing scripts in between employment on films and TV shows.
A Change in Roles
On her honeymoon in 1984, she and her husband discovered the rustic stone Black Range Lodge in the peaceful community of Kingston, NM, and it spoke to her. They envisioned transforming the spacious building into a production facility and took the unusual step of leaving Los Angeles and dedicating themselves to writing speculative screenplays, supported by intermitant A.D. jobs. During the writers guild strike in 1988, to pay the bills, they opened the Lodge as a bed & breakfast, gradually restoring and upgrading the historic building, and developing the overall property into a lush permaculture landscape.
A Life Changing Experience
The experience of living on the edge of the Gila National Forest, and a growing ecological awareness, transformed Catherine’s priorities. In 1992, she built a straw-bale greenhouse, a life-altering experience that led to her becoming an internationally-recognized advocate of straw-bale and “natural” building. Since then, she has traveled the globe to research and educate, and has authored books and videos on the subject of natural building techniques and benefits. Her books include The New Strawbale Home, The Hybrid House, and The Art of Natural Building. She is also a founding member of Builders Without Borders, and has organized and hosted many straw-bale workshops and natural building conferences at the Lodge facilities.
The Lodge Through the Ages
With walls that whisper tales from the past, the Black Range Lodge has gracefully embraced the modern world without compromising its old-world charm. The lodge is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibilities of its time, combined with Catherine’s magical touch, resulting in an environment where history and modernity coexist in eclectic harmony.
Today, the Black Range Lodge offers a variety of guest options ranging from inviting rooms with private balconies to large two-bedroom suites, a cozy studio apartment and a 6-bedroom/4-bath home with spacious decks and mountain views. Breakfast is included, with free range eggs collected from on-property and sourced from local growers. Other amenities include Wi-Fi, a game room and spa services. With a capacity of up to 40 guests, the Lodge also hosts group events, from country weddings and family reunions, to music camps and other educational retreats.
An Oasis for Outdoor Enthusiasts
The Black Range Lodge isn’t just a place to rest your head, it’s a haven for those with a deep love for the great outdoors and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience where “unplugging” is the natural thing to do. The lodge environments are a veritable outdoor paradise, offering activities such as hiking, biking and nature walks along the picturesque Percha Creek. For those who want to venture beyond the immediate vicinity of the lodge, experiences include hiking the Continental Divide; exploring ghost towns, such as nearby Hillsboro and Lake Valley; discovering the Gila Cliff Dwellings, City of Rocks and the Catwalk, all uniquely different and fully worth the visit; enjoying the hot springs in Truth or Consequences; and taking advantage of the many activities at Elephant Butte Lake. These outdoor experiences are more than destinations – they are learning experiences filled with self-discovery and appreciation for roads less traveled.
A Natural Connection
The Black Range experience offers an even deeper connection to the sounds and sights of nature. Birds abound, as do deer, javalina and other wildlife, frequently sighted and enjoyed by guests. The Lodge welcomes families with children, and well-behaved pets.
Taking Relaxation to the Next Level.
One of the most sought-after services at the Black Range Lodge is a therapeutic massage by in-house massage therapist Gary Harvell. Gary focuses on the specific needs of each client, helping guests release deep-seated tension and rejuvenate body and mind.
Special Events at Black Range Lodge
From April through October of each year, the Black Range Lodge is home to a number of special events that include music camps, star parties, concerts and the annual Pickamania music festival. See the website for more information.
The Connection: More Than Just Business
PreReal™ Investments, a company known for recognizing value and potential, couldn’t overlook the unique charm and potential of the Black Range Lodge and is proud to share its story. PreReal™ recognizes the lodge’s value not only as a property but as a bastion of cultural heritage, a sanctuary for nature lovers and a testament to sustainability.
FAQs
What unique experiences does the Black Range Lodge offer?
Apart from the usual amenities like comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts, the Black Range Lodge Bed & Breakfast offers nature walks, hiking and biking trails, massage services, and special events.
How is Catherine Wanek associated with the Black Range Lodge?
Catherine Wanek, a former Hollywood assistant director, purchased the Black Range before them.
What role does PreReal™ Investments play in this context?
PreReal™ Investments recognizes the Black Range Lodge as not just a property, but as a unique destination offering a blend of historical charm and outdoor activities which deliver a unique, unplugged experience for guests.
Where is the Black Range Lodge located?
The Black Range Lodge is located on Main Street in Kingston, a New Mexico ghost town. Its tranquil and scenic location makes it a destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and all who seek to disconnect from their hectic lives and connect with all that nature has to offer.
What is the history of the Black Range Lodge?
The Black Range Lodge dates back to the late 1800s. Over the years, it has stood the test of time, retaining its historical charm while, in Catherine Wanek’s caring hands, evolving to meet the needs of modern travelers The lodge was originally built to house cavalry as well as prospectors searching for silver in the Black Range.
Who would find the Black Range Lodge appealing?
The Black Range Lodge is perfect for those seeking solitude or an immersive nature experience. It’s also an excellent choice for history enthusiasts, outdoor adventure lovers, families and those looking for a unique, culturally-rich event venue.
Conclusion
The Black Range Lodge is not just a Bed & Breakfast and event center; it is a gateway to a bygone era, a window to nature and a venue for unique, memorable experiences. If you’re seeking a retreat and the opportunity to connect with nature rather than your smartphone and computer, the Black Range Lodge may just be the getaway you’ve been looking for.
