Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch
In the classic film; Field of Dreams, a dumbstruck Ray Kinsella offers this observation on his newly finished baseball paradise, “I have just created something totally illogical.” The same could be said of Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch, and we’re all better off because of it. Elmer Long began collecting bottles and other found objects with his father on childhood camping trips and other excursions. But as life does with all of us, he eventually gave way to adulthood, joining the Marine corps before getting married and starting a family. It wouldn’t be until decades later that he would return to the collection that he and his father started so many years prior, and boy, did Elmer make up for lost time. Beginning in 2000 with his first bottle tree, Elmer’s forrest is now over 200 trees strong, and he has no intention of stopping.
The trees greet you from just off the road as you park, the various colors of each bottle twinkling in the sunlight. As you approach, you realize that this isn’t just a handful of sculptures we’re talking about, the trees go on for rows and rows. It’s a little dizzying at first as you try to figure out how to best navigate your way around, but sometimes the best plan is to not have one at all. Whatever catches your eye next is the best route, and of that there will be plenty. Elmer will be there on most days, as he was on our visit, since his workshop and residence are in the back. If you see a man with a long white beard smiling at you, that’s Elmer, and he’ll happily answer any questions you have about this oasis in the desert he’s created. You’ll find yourself smiling in return as you listen to his answers and stories.
I’m in constant admiration for those who chose to bring a little beauty into this world. Elmer fashions his art out items that most of us would view as garbage, proving that you can accomplish grand things with a touch of inspiration and some elbow grease. And to think it all started with a kid’s bottle collection. Well done, Elmer. Well done.
RESOURCES:
KCET article on Elmer Long and the history behind his ranch.
