Fall 2024

150 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 4 Rustic Charm Endures Hacienda is Committed to Keeping the Carmel Valley Community’s Rural Spir it Alive B Y M I CHA E L CHAT F I E LD PHOTOGRA PHY B Y K E L L I U LDA L L T here is no denying that the face of Carmel Valley is changing. No matter your viewpoint on the matter, the bucolic, rural and community-minded vibe that has defined the valley for more than a century is definitely evolving. But take heart. There is a business that is dedicated to keeping the old pioneer spirit alive: Hacienda. For most of the 20th century (and part of the 21st), Hacienda Hay & Feed serviced valley residents with everything a livestock-tending rancher could need, including tack, farm gear and, of course, hay and feed. But it was much more than that. Originally run by theWolter family as Hacienda Market, this property, just three miles east of Highway 1, was a gathering spot, a place where locals could meet neighbors, discuss sports, Employee Taylor Conforti behind the counter of this revitalized and reimagined Carmel Valley institution. Hacienda is continuing its decades-long service of provisioning ranchers up and down the valley with essential livestock supplies.