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RENO, Nev. — The 27,000-square-foot mansion and grounds have hosted the Kennedys, Rockefellers and Dwight D. Eisenhower. The private lake, golf course and world-class equestrian center sit in cottonwood-draped splendor in the shadow of the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada. And now this exclusive, former enclave of casino magnate Bill Harrah is opening its doors for private wedding parties and couples seeking to exchange vows in a secluded, historic estate that seems a world away from civilization, but sits minutes from an international airport, world-class gaming, fine dining and the shores of Lake Tahoe.
Today, Rancharrah offers wedding parties what it has offered celebrity visitors and wealthy business tycoons throughout its history — privacy, luxury and tranquility. Set on over 140 acres of open land in South Reno, the property retains the old-world charm of its industrial age heyday, but has been updated to the taste of discriminating guests with a detailed, period-specific remodel of the interior of the mansion and a new garden area, ampitheater and kitchen facilities.
Three historic homes sit on the property: the Crummer House, the Cottage House and the Harrah House. The Crummer House, named after an early business partner of “Duke of Nevada” Norman Blitz, is a 6-bedroom, 5,000-square-foot home built in the mid 1930s that has been recently restored. It was once the home of Murial McCormick, a descendent of mechanical reaper inventor Cyrus McCormick who was related by marriage to the Rockefeller family.
The Cottage House is a three-bedroom home that, like the Crummer House, will serve as a Bed and Breakfast-style lodge. Both homes can be rented out separately, or in conjunction with the main Harrah House and events center. And both are private, surrounded by large trees and their own garden.
The Harrah House is the main mansion and its green-gabled roofs, copper turrets and 27,000-square feet of white-walled Kentucky horse estate stylings dominate the view from the 3-hole golf course and private lake. This five-bedroom home has grand sitting rooms, libraries, piano rooms and spiral staircases that empty out into a newly built garden and events area off the back deck.
Rebuilt by John Harrah using the original floor plan of the legendary Rancharrah mansion, the Harrah House retains the spirit of old-world hospitality and grandeur that made the original home host to celebrities and dignitaries.
The result of the recent Rancharrah renovation is a turn-key wedding experience. Eighteen rooms of lodging in three homes on the estate ensure that the wedding party and family can stay on-site during the event. Ample kitchen staff can deliver gourmet meals cooked to perfection in the estate’s facilities. The private lake, golf course, mansion and Sierra Nevada mountain backdrop offer the picture perfect setting for exchanging vows. And activities such as private horseback riding and golf abound on the property for the wedding party or family members.
For the ceremony, the main Rancharrah mansion’s recently re-designed garden and events area can seat up to 700 people. Smaller and more intimate garden settings are also available. The indoor capacity of the main mansion is 125 people.
Recently listed on the market for $75 million, Rancharrah continues in the Harrah legacy, as owner John Harrah, son of casino icon Bill Harrah, updated the property for a new future as the site of events, weddings and high-quality equestrian activities.
“I grew up at Rancharrah, and know firsthand the magic of the open pastures, historic buildings and Cottonwood-draped lanes that look out onto the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada,” said John Harrah, owner of Rancharrah. “I am pleased to share this special place that is a piece of my family’s history and the history of the West.”
Rancharrah is located off of Kietzke Lane. in South Reno. It is only minutes from Reno International Airport and downtown Reno, and a half hour drive from Lake Tahoe.
For more information on booking Rancharrah for an estate wedding visit www.rancharrah.com.
