The History and Use of Cal Poly Land Ranch and Residence of Pedro Quintana

From Reproduction of Thompson and West's History of San Luis Obispo County, California

The ranchos continued many of the agricultural practices established during the Mission period. This was prime grazing land for thousands of cattle, horses, and sheep, and the rancheros’ lavish lifestyle continued for a number of years. However, the rancho period ended with a series of severe floods in 1861 to 1862, followed by an even worse drought in 1862 to 1864. Overgrazing had severely depleted the grassland, and it was unable to withstand the natural disasters or support the excessive number of herds. Thousands of cattle died, and the pasture land around Cal Poly was littered with skeletons.