Santa Ana Historical Preservation

from In 1913, Walter Daniel Ranney and his family arrived in Santa Ana from Groton, New York—launching what would become one of Orange County’s most influential dairy operations. From the founding of Ranney Sanitary Dairy to the growth of Excelsior Creamery, the family helped pioneer milk pasteurization locally, introduced frozen orange juice to the market, and expanded operations across Prado, Garden Grove, and beyond.

After decades of innovation and growth, the Excelsior dairy legacy concluded with its sale to Carnation Company in 1980—closing a remarkable 65-year chapter in Orange County’s agricultural history.

Historic photo: The Ranney family in front of their Santa Ana home built in 1925 on North Park Boulevard in North Broadway Park, now the Floral Park Historic District.

Join us on May 2nd, 2026 at the Dr. Willella Howe-Waffle House and Medical Museum for a special docent-led tour of the beautiful Queen Anne–style Victorian home and medical office of Santa Ana’s first female doctor.

Your ticket includes a guided tour along with tea and sweets served in the garden area.

Come enjoy history, refreshments, and a unique look at Victorian-era fashion and culture.

Purchase tickets ahead of time:

https://www.santaanahistory.com/event-details/may-2nd-open-house