Who were the Neanderthals and the Denisovans? What was their relationship - anatomical, behavioral and genetic - to Modern Humans? Do you have Neanderthal or Denisovan DNA in your genome? When and where did Modern Humans (Homo sapiens) first evolve? Join John Barthelme, educator, archaeologist, Ph.D in Anthropology, and OVHS volunteer, to discuss the current … Continue reading NEANDERTHALS, DENISOVIANS and EARLY MODERN HUMANS: Recent Evidence and Interpretations

SPECIAL INVITE FROM ROTARY CLUB OF ORO VALLEY Peace Pole Dedication Ceremony Come together in peach, unity, and hope for a better world. The Peace Pole is a global symbol of our shared hope for a culture of peace. May it inspire all who visit Steam Pump Ranch. All are welcome!  (And afterwards, enjoy a … Continue reading Peace Pole Dedication Ceremony

SPAP artists will be scattered around Steam Pump Ranch, creating plein‑air works inspired by the outbuildings, the farmers market, the Heritage Garden, and the sweeping views of Pusch Ridge and the Santa Catalinas. Guests are welcome to wander, watch, and enjoy the creative process. After the PaintOut, join them for a friendly artist Show & … Continue reading OVHS Hosts Plein Air Sonoran Plein Air Painters

Win Big with the Jim Click Millions for Tucson Raffle! Come see the 2026 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X Roush® Edition—the grand prize car—on display at Steam Pump Ranch from 9 AM to noon on Saturday, October 10, 2026!  Purchase raffle tickets at the OVHS booth during the Farmers Market or inside the Pusch House Museum (free … Continue reading See the Truck You Could Win – Oct 10th at Steam Pump Ranch!

Help fill a foster child's plate Join the Oro Valley Historical Society (OVHS) in supporting our community! We’re partnering with Gap Ministries by hosting a food staples drive.  Please stop by the Pusch House Museum and drop off condiments, peanut butter, jelly, syrup, canned goods, boxed goods, and spices. Gap Ministries 2026 Food Drive Flyer

United Way Days of Caring at Heritage Garden Compost_October 2025 Enjoy a day working with volunteers of the Oro Valley Historical Society in our Heritage Garden at historic Steam Pump Ranch. You'll be able to replicate the native people that came before us as we water, plant seeds, pick vegetables, prepare new garden beds, and … Continue reading United Way Days of Caring – For the OVHS Heritage Garden!

Watch creations come to life as Southern Arizona Arts Guild (SAAG) plein air artists capture the beauty of the Catalinas, historic ranch buildings and the Heritage Garden at Steam Pump Ranch. The Oro Valley Historical Society is proud to offer you this opportunity to observe artists at work while they also enjoy the Heirloom Farmer's … Continue reading Mingle, Make & Munch with SAAG at Steam Pump Ranch

The Tucson Garden Club invites you to an inspiring session on beginning your own rose garden. Learn practical tips and insider advice from Terry Swartz, past President of the Tucson Rose Society, as she shares her favorite techniques for selecting, planting, and caring for roses in our desert climate. After the presentation, enjoy a guided … Continue reading How to Build Your New Rose Garden