The Family Gaff and Bell Mountain
Pioneers have been described as those who have gone before, preparing the way for others to follow. There have been many whose footprints have paved the way on Bell Mountain.
The first recorded land owners were Oliver and John Gaff in 1870. They were followed by a long list of homesteaders, including John Bell, who filed a land patent in 1917. He was listed as a farmer and, according to tradition, the ranch was named for him.
Over the years, Bell Mountain land has been used for farming, ranching, logging, and mining. The last recorded homesteader was George and William Medinger, who were cattle ranchers. Over the years, these property owners have left their mark on Bell Mountain and provided an amazing heritage for others.