House Pond  Perhaps you would care to bring a picnic with you when you visit the  Slaughter Ranch. There are many shade trees overlooking the acre House Pond which provides an ideal spot for a picnic. (Please remember to bring your own  charcoal if you plan to use the available BBQ grills.) It is a beautiful place to relax before continuing your tour of the museum buildings. Please call ahead if you plan to bring a large group. Park benches and picnic tables are provided.  The House Pond was developed by John Slaughter. When he arrived in 1884,  he saw several natural springs bubbling up from the ground. He visualized an endless water supply for irrigation and domestic purposes. The dam was built in the 1890's. The pond has been stocked with endangered Yaqui top minnow, Yaqui chub and Yaqui catfish by the San Bernardino National Wildlife Refuge, which joins and was a part of the original Slaughter Ranch.  Because of Slaughter's development of the pond for irrigation purposes, we  are able to enjoy green grass and trees on the ranch today.