The Drummond family, particularly Ree Drummond, the famed “Pioneer Woman,” has captivated audiences with their ranching lifestyle. From her popular Food Network show to her cookbooks, blog, and mercantile, Ree has offered glimpses into life on the Oklahoma ranch. But a question that consistently surfaces is: Do the Drummonds actually live on the ranch? The answer, while seemingly straightforward, has layers of complexity and intrigue. Let’s delve into the realities of the Drummond’s home base.
The Heart of the Operation: Drummond Ranch
Drummond Ranch isn’t just a backdrop for a television show; it’s a sprawling, real-life working cattle ranch that has been in the Drummond family for generations. Its vast acreage is the lifeblood of their operation, and it’s where much of their daily lives unfold. The ranch’s history and importance to the Drummonds cannot be overstated.
A Legacy of Land and Cattle
The Drummond family’s roots in Osage County, Oklahoma, run deep. Their ranching heritage stretches back over a century, making them one of the largest landowners in the United States. This legacy is not just about land ownership; it’s about a commitment to the land, the cattle, and the way of life that comes with it.
The ranch is not a static entity; it’s a dynamic, evolving business that requires constant attention and hard work. From tending to the cattle to maintaining the land, the Drummonds are actively involved in every aspect of its operation. This involvement is a key factor in understanding their connection to the ranch and why it’s more than just a place of business – it’s their home.
Where Do the Drummonds Call Home? The Main House
While the Drummond Ranch encompasses a significant area, the question of where the family resides specifically points to the “main house,” a central hub for their family life and activities. This is where Ree, Ladd, and their children have built their lives, creating memories and traditions rooted in the ranching lifestyle.
The Original Drummond Home
For many years, Ree, Ladd, and their children lived in the original Drummond home on the ranch. This house, often featured on “The Pioneer Woman,” was the center of their family life for years. It witnessed countless meals, celebrations, and everyday moments that shaped the Drummond family.
The original home held immense sentimental value, filled with cherished memories and a deep sense of belonging. However, life evolves, and circumstances change, leading to a significant decision for the Drummonds.
The Lodge: A Temporary Residence Turned Television Set
The Lodge, initially intended as a temporary residence during construction projects on the ranch, unexpectedly became the primary filming location for “The Pioneer Woman.” This space, designed to accommodate guests and serve as a central meeting place, transformed into a fully functional television set while also serving as the Drummond family’s temporary home.
The Lodge offers a unique glimpse into Ree’s cooking and lifestyle, showcasing her culinary creations and family interactions. While it wasn’t originally designed as their primary residence, it played a pivotal role in their lives and the development of “The Pioneer Woman” brand.
The New Drummond Home: A Fresh Start
Due to various factors, including structural issues and the ever-present demands of filming “The Pioneer Woman,” the Drummonds made the decision to build a new home on the ranch. This new house represents a fresh start for the family, designed to meet their current needs and provide a comfortable, functional space for their evolving lives.
The reasons behind the move were practical. The old house had its quirks, and as the family grew and filming demands increased, a new, more suitable space became necessary. This decision underscores the fact that even amidst a seemingly idyllic ranching life, practical considerations and the need for functional living spaces remain paramount.
Life on the Ranch: More Than Just a Television Show
Beyond the cameras and the culinary creations, life on the Drummond Ranch is deeply rooted in hard work, family values, and a connection to the land. It’s a life that demands dedication, resilience, and a profound appreciation for the natural world.
Daily Ranching Activities
The Drummonds’ daily lives revolve around the rhythms of the ranch. From tending to the cattle to managing the land, their days are filled with tasks that require physical labor and a deep understanding of ranching practices. This hands-on involvement is a testament to their commitment to the land and the ranching way of life.
Ladd Drummond, in particular, plays a central role in the daily operations of the ranch. His expertise and dedication are essential to the success of the business, and he works tirelessly to ensure its continued prosperity. The entire family contributes to the ranch’s success in various ways.
Family and Community
Family is at the heart of the Drummonds’ life on the ranch. They are a close-knit unit that supports each other through thick and thin. Their strong family bond is evident in their interactions and the way they work together to achieve their goals.
The Drummonds are also deeply involved in their local community. They support local businesses, participate in community events, and contribute to charitable causes. Their commitment to their community reflects their values and their desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
The Drummonds’ Businesses: Extending the Ranching Lifestyle
The Drummonds’ ventures extend beyond the ranch itself, encompassing a range of businesses that showcase their lifestyle and values. These businesses include The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, a restaurant, bakery, and general store; The Boarding House, a boutique hotel; and P-Town Pizza, a pizzeria.
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile: A Destination
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, located in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, has become a major tourist destination, drawing visitors from all over the world. It offers a curated selection of food, home goods, and apparel, all reflecting Ree Drummond’s signature style.
The Mercantile is more than just a retail store; it’s an experience. Visitors can sample Ree’s recipes, browse her favorite products, and immerse themselves in the world of “The Pioneer Woman.” It’s a testament to the power of her brand and the appeal of the ranching lifestyle.
Other Ventures in Pawhuska
In addition to the Mercantile, the Drummonds have opened other businesses in Pawhuska, including The Boarding House and P-Town Pizza. These ventures further contribute to the town’s economy and provide visitors with a range of options for dining and lodging.
The Boarding House offers a luxurious and comfortable stay in elegantly designed rooms. P-Town Pizza serves delicious pizzas in a casual and family-friendly atmosphere. These businesses reflect the Drummonds’ commitment to creating a vibrant and welcoming destination in Pawhuska.
The Truth: The Drummonds Do Live on the Ranch
So, to definitively answer the question: Yes, the Drummonds do live on the ranch. While they moved from the original home, they continue to reside on the Drummond Ranch in their new house, actively participating in ranching activities and managing their various businesses. Their lives are deeply intertwined with the land and the community, and the ranch remains the heart of their family and their entrepreneurial endeavors. The television show offers a glimpse, but the reality is a life deeply connected to the land and the legacy of the Drummond family.
Do the Drummonds currently reside on the original Drummond Ranch?
Yes, the Drummonds do still live on the Drummond Ranch, a sprawling property located near Pawhuska, Oklahoma. While they gained fame through Ree Drummond’s Pioneer Woman media empire, which often showcases the ranch’s scenic beauty and rustic charm, the ranch is first and foremost their family home and a working cattle ranch. Their commitment to maintaining and operating the ranch is a central part of their lifestyle.
However, it’s important to note that the family also has a separate, smaller home in Pawhuska, sometimes referred to as the “Mercantile House.” This residence is primarily used when Ree needs to be closer to her businesses, such as The Mercantile restaurant and store, and for more convenient access to filming locations. The ranch remains their primary residence and the heart of the Drummond family life.
Where is the Drummond Ranch specifically located?
The Drummond Ranch is situated near Pawhuska, Oklahoma, in Osage County. Osage County is known for its rolling hills, expansive prairies, and deep-rooted history in cattle ranching. The Drummond family has a long and significant history in this region, owning and operating the ranch for generations.
Pinpointing the exact location of the ranch is intentionally kept somewhat vague to protect the privacy of the Drummond family and maintain security. While aspects of the ranch are often featured in Ree Drummond’s shows and online content, the specific address is not publicly disclosed. This helps to balance the public interest in their lives with their need for personal space and safety.
Is the Drummond Ranch open to the public for tours?
While portions of the Drummond property are accessible to the public, the main Drummond Ranch house itself is not open for tours. Visitors are welcome to explore The Mercantile, Ree’s restaurant and store in downtown Pawhuska, as well as P-Town Pizza, Charlie’s Sweet Shop, and The Boarding House, a boutique hotel, all owned by the Drummond family.
However, the actual working ranch, including the family’s private residence, remains off-limits to the general public. This is to respect the Drummonds’ privacy and ensure the smooth operation of their ranching business. The areas that are open to the public offer a glimpse into the “Pioneer Woman” lifestyle and provide a welcoming experience for fans.
How large is the Drummond Ranch?
The Drummond Ranch is substantial in size, encompassing approximately 433,000 acres. This makes it one of the largest ranches in the United States. The vastness of the property is integral to its cattle ranching operations and contributes to the scenic landscape often showcased in Ree Drummond’s media.
The scale of the ranch necessitates a significant amount of work and resources to maintain and operate. It provides ample grazing land for their cattle and supports the Drummond family’s commitment to preserving their ranching heritage. The large acreage also provides a sense of privacy and seclusion for the family.
Who owns the Drummond Ranch, and how long has the family owned it?
The Drummond Ranch is owned and operated by the Drummond family. While the exact ownership structure is private, it is understood to be a family-run business passed down through generations. The Drummond family’s connection to the land dates back to the late 19th century, making them a long-standing fixture in Oklahoma ranching history.
Their enduring presence in the area reflects their dedication to preserving their heritage and contributing to the local economy. The family’s history is deeply intertwined with the ranch’s identity, and their commitment to its continued success is evident in their daily operations and long-term vision.
What is Ree Drummond’s role on the Drummond Ranch?
Ree Drummond, known as the Pioneer Woman, plays a multifaceted role on the Drummond Ranch. While she is famous for her culinary skills, blogging, and television show, she is also actively involved in aspects of the ranch’s operations. This includes supporting her husband, Ladd, and their family in their ranching endeavors.
Her involvement extends beyond the domestic sphere. Ree contributes to various aspects of ranch life, even if not directly participating in the most physically demanding tasks. She often uses the ranch as the backdrop for her creative work, further intertwining her public persona with the family’s ranching lifestyle. She supports her family and the ranch’s legacy.
Does the Drummond family have other homes besides the Ranch?
Yes, in addition to their primary residence on the Drummond Ranch, the family also owns a smaller house in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. This second home, sometimes called the “Mercantile House,” serves as a convenient base for Ree Drummond when she needs to be closer to her businesses in town, such as The Mercantile, P-Town Pizza, and Charlie’s Sweet Shop.
This arrangement allows her to balance her responsibilities as a businesswoman with her family life on the ranch. The Mercantile House offers a practical solution for managing her busy schedule and provides a comfortable space for her and her family when they need to be in Pawhuska for extended periods. It’s a strategic decision that supports both her professional endeavors and her commitment to her family.