Wellington Homestead

Frank and Virginia Wellington

NPS Archives

Imagine trying to homestead next to giant sand dunes in the 1920s: you would experience severe isolation, subzero temperatures and blizzards in winter, burning hot sand and mosquitoes in summer, grizzly bears and mountain lions, frequent drought, and a very short growing season. The Wellington family faced all this, defied the odds and endured. Their legacy of determination and perseverance continues to inspire people today.

Remnants of the Wellington cabin can be seen about ¼ mile north of the visitor center, at the base of the mountains, or from Wellington Ditch Trail, a hiking trail built along the former ditch where the family diverted water to their cabin.

 

Frank Wellington with two horses on the dunes, circa 1930s

NPS Archives

Like their neighbors up in Medano Canyon, the Herard family, the Wellingtons liked to ride horses on the dunes.

The Herard and Welllington children liked to play on the sand as well. The Herard's grandson, Jack Williams, recalled, "Eddie Wellington and I would climb that big dune down there, just so we could sail off it...that was great!"

 

NPS Archives

The Wellingtons pose for a family photo, circa 1930s