Crane Melon Barn - Home of the Original Crane Melon
Oliver Crane, the son of Richard H. Crane, developed the Crane Melon in the early 1900s by crossing several varieties of melons, including a Japanese melon, a white melon, a Persian melon and an ambrosia melon among others.In 1852 a farmer named Richard Hope Crane, straight from the California gold fields, arrived on horseback to gaze over the Cotati Valley.Chester's Vineyard borders the Bennett Valley Appellation to the east and the Sonoma Coast Appellation to the westRichard Crane's Sculptures and Metal ArtCome Visit Crane Melon Barn - here are simple directions to find your way!Press Releases and News Media Welcome to Crane Melon Barn - In 1849, Richard Hope Crane arrived in California for the gold rush and, in 1852, settled in Santa Rosa. The property that Richard purchased was part of the vast Mexican land grant, Cotate Rancho.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

richard crane is a past member of sonoma county artrails and has exhibited his work in many bay area art shows and galleries, always to rave reviews.

Richard H. Crane is a fifth generation Sonoma County farmer. But when he is not raising the famous Crane Melon, he is creating his famous metal sculpture. His unique art form incorporates his welding skills with his vast knowledge of antique farm equipment. Most of the material he uses is recycled farm equipment gathered when repairing and renovating equipment. Many of the parts he uses are rare and hard to find, making each sculpture a one of a kind original.

Richard H. Crane

Through pre-visualization, Richard is able to see the end product in his pile of scrap metal and bring his images to life. His fertile imagination has led to a variety of creatures constructed from 160 years of Crane Canyon Ranch farm machinery parts. The result is whimsical and entertaining, with each piece displaying an extraordinary personality all their own. His work enchances the home, patio and garden.

farm art metal sculptures

The Crane Family Melon Barn. 4935 Petaluma Hill Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404

The Crane Family Melon Barn. 4935 Petaluma Hill Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404