History
The Rich History of Flying L Ranch Resort & Golf Course
In 2016, the Pilot’s Lounge at Flying L Ranch was awarded a Texas Historical Commission Landmark. This recognition highlights the significant historical events and contributions that have shaped our resort. Below, we offer a glimpse into the fascinating history of Flying L Ranch.
Founded in 1947
The Flying L Ranch came into existence in 1947 when Colonel John H. Lapham purchased the 542-acre dude ranch from its original Polish settlers. The ‘L’ in ‘Flying L’ is a tribute to Colonel Lapham’s last name. His vision was to create a retreat where modern people could escape and find themselves lost in time.
Aviation History
Colonel John H. Lapham, a retired Air Corps Colonel, introduced an airstrip and established a flight school at the ranch. His passion for aviation shaped the ranch’s identity and created a unique experience for guests. The airstrip and aviation activities became central features of the ranch, attracting aviation enthusiasts from all over.
Architectural Influence of Frank Lloyd Wright
The original Villas at Flying L Ranch are believed to be influenced by the renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. According to a San Antonio Express newspaper article from March 30, 1963, guest accommodations were designed to resemble grounded aircraft. The coral brick used in their construction was made in Corpus Christi from sea shells, cement, and coral dye, giving the Villas a unique and enduring character.
LIFE Magazine Feature
The grand opening of the Flying L Ranch Resort was a spectacular event, featuring a ‘Ranch & Aviation’ themed fashion show hosted by Colonel Lapham. Industry-leading fashion designer Stanley Marcus, along with other notable fashionistas, designed stylish aeronautic and cowboy-oriented apparel exclusively for the event. Journalists and photographers from LIFE magazine attended and later published an article celebrating the success of the show.
Remembering Colonel John H. Lapham
Colonel John H. Lapham was a distinguished Air Corps Colonel, polo player, and Texas Co. Oil Executive. With over 20,000 flight hours logged over 28 years, he was an incredibly experienced pilot. Tragically, Colonel Lapham, along with his granddaughter, her fiancé, and a childhood friend, lost their lives in a plane crash at the ranch on August 2, 1956. It is believed that Colonel Lapham suffered a heart attack while attempting to land his four-seater Tri-Pacer.
Famous Guests
Over the years, Flying L Ranch has welcomed numerous notable guests, including Stanley Marcus of Neiman Marcus, John Wayne, Slim Pickens, Willie Nelson, Tex Ritter, Jim Reeves, Ray Price, Buck Owens, Chill Wills, Jack Kramer, and Robert Fuller. The television show “The Cisco Kid” even filmed an episode at the ranch, adding to its rich history.
Family Owned and Operated
In February 2018, Doug and Cindy Stevens purchased the Flying L Ranch and took over operations in March 2018, hiring their daughter Kristen as Administration Director. The Stevens family has worked tirelessly to fill the ranch with passionate, dependable staff, update facilities, and introduce new ideas to make the ranch resort experience unique and fun for all visitors. As one guest aptly said, “Whoever says you can’t have it all has never been to the Flying L!”