Sometimes, you don’t know a dream until it happens. That’s the story of Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, one of the most remarkable places in the Black Hills to gather and celebrate.
Josh Besler’s parents purchased a ranch located in Saint Onge in 2003 to be closer to his sister. The only plans they had for the property was to enjoy it and host a handful of small gatherings. “They just thought this could be a place to throw a few barn dances,” says Josh, the Manager at Besler’s. “And then my cousin was here visiting the ranch and she asked if she could get married here across the river.”
After that, word spread about this special place and Besler’s became the popular wedding and event venue it is today. “We’ll be celebrating 20 years in business with the ranch next year,” says Alison Besler, Josh’s wife and Venue Director.
Alison makes sure that credit is given where credit is due: “There’s three Besler families that live and work here and it takes all of us.” And others make this beautiful venue what it is, too. “We couldn’t do it without Mole, our gardener,” says Alison. “Or our bar staff. They’re phenomenal.”
Besler’s is one of those magical places in the Black Hills that draws people in to relax and celebrate. A river that’s worthy of a Hollywood wide shot winds through the property. And with many of the original and historical buildings and features still intact, this venue is being sought out by people wanting to celebrate from not only all over the state and the country, but the world.
Josh says, “My parents are really the ones with this dream. I mean, it’s turned into their dream; they didn’t plan it, but it became their dream.”
19314 Helmer Rd
St Onge, SD 57779
beslerscadillacranch.com