Have you ever heard someone mention “The Chicken Ranch” and wondered exactly what they were talking about? Well, you’re not alone! The name “Chicken Ranch” actually refers to several different places across the United States, each with its own unique story and purpose. As someone who’s traveled to these locations, I’m excited to share everything you need to know about where these Chicken Ranches are located
The Original Chicken Ranch – La Grange, Texas
Let’s start with what many consider the OG Chicken Ranch – the infamous brothel that operated in La Grange, Texas until 1973. This establishment gained nationwide fame as “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas” (yep that’s where the movie and musical got their names from!).
History of the Texas Chicken Ranch
The La Grange Chicken Ranch has quite the colorful history
- Founded in 1905 when Miss Jessie Williams (born Faye Stewart) arrived from Waco and established her business
- In 1915, Jessie and her partner Grace Koplan purchased 11 acres on Rocky Creek Road
- Supposedly got its nickname during the Great Depression when payment could be made with actual chickens (one chicken for one… well, you know)
- Listed on tax rolls as a “poultry farm” (clever, right?)
- Operated continuously until 1973, making it the “Oldest Continually Operating Non-Floating Whorehouse in the United States”
The most famous madam was probably Edna Milton, who took over from Miss Jessie in 1952. She maintained the establishment’s traditions, including generous charitable contributions to local organizations and churches.
Sheriff T.J. Flournoy had a long-standing arrangement with the brothel, but everything changed in 1973 when Houston reporter Marvin Zindler brought media attention to the ranch. This led Governor Dolph Briscoe to shut it down despite local support for the establishment.
If you’re visiting La Grange today, you won’t find the original building – it was moved to Dallas in 1977 and briefly operated as a restaurant with Miss Edna as hostess. However, you can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia through the La Grange online gift shop.
The Nevada Chicken Ranch – Pahrump, Nevada
Now let’s head west to Nevada, where another famous Chicken Ranch operates as a legal brothel near Las Vegas.
Where Exactly Is It?
The Nevada Chicken Ranch is located:
- About 60 miles west of Las Vegas
- Near the town of Pahrump in Nye County
- Precise address: 10511 Homestead Road, Pahrump, Nevada
- Coordinates: 36°04′24.7″N 115°57′23.45″W
What to Know About the Nevada Chicken Ranch
This 17-bed brothel sits on 40 acres of land and has been operating since 1976. Some interesting facts:
- Founded by Walter Plankinton, who faced strong opposition from local law enforcement
- Remains the closest legal brothel to Las Vegas
- Had to relocate after initially opening within Pahrump town limits (where prostitution was illegal)
- Survived being burned down in 1978 (allegedly by arsonists) and reopened just 5 days later!
- Was sold in 1982 for $1.25 million to Kenneth Green and Russel Reade
- As of 2006, the property was sold again for $5.2 million
The Nevada establishment features three extensively-decorated themed “bungalows” connected to the main house by a breezeway for customers wanting a more luxurious experience. There’s also the Leghorn Bar with a separate entrance for visitors who don’t want to enter the brothel parlor.
Approximately 60 women work at this Chicken Ranch, with around 12-15 living and working there at any given time. The women typically stay for at least 2 weeks at a time and are independent contractors who set their own prices and services.
Interestingly, the Nevada Chicken Ranch used to display memorabilia from the original Texas Chicken Ranch, connecting these two famous establishments.
The Chicken Ranch Restaurant – Surprise, Arizona
But wait! There’s another Chicken Ranch that has nothing to do with brothels at all – it’s a family-friendly restaurant in Surprise, Arizona!
Where to Find This Chicken Ranch
The Chicken Ranch restaurant is located at:
- 14051 W Grand Ave, Surprise, Arizona 85374
- Phone: (623) 248-6628
What to Expect at This Chicken Ranch
This casual, laid-back restaurant offers:
- American and vegetarian cuisine
- A dive bar atmosphere with karaoke and live music on Friday nights
- Popular dishes including the Fried Chicken Basket, Fish Fingers & Fries, and Shrimp Basket
- Family-friendly environment suitable for kids
- Hours: Monday-Friday 12-9 PM, Saturday 11 AM-9 PM, Sunday 10 AM-8 PM
Customers particularly enjoy their tasty sandwiches like the French Dip, Club, and fish po’boy, served with sides like potato salad and coleslaw. The restaurant has a 3-star average rating based on 212 reviews, with mixed feedback on service but generally positive comments about the food quality and atmosphere.
Which Chicken Ranch Should You Visit?
So now that we’ve covered where the different Chicken Ranches are located, which one should you check out? Well, that depends entirely on what you’re looking for!
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History buffs: Visit La Grange, Texas to learn about the original Chicken Ranch. While the building is gone, you can explore the town and purchase memorabilia.
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Adult entertainment seekers: The Nevada Chicken Ranch near Las Vegas offers legal services in a regulated environment (though I’m definitely not making any recommendations here!)
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Food lovers and families: Head to Surprise, Arizona for some tasty fried chicken and a family-friendly atmosphere.
FAQs About the Chicken Ranch Locations
Is the Chicken Ranch in Texas still open?
No, the original Chicken Ranch in La Grange, Texas closed in 1973 following media exposure by reporter Marvin Zindler. The building was later moved to Dallas in 1977.
How far is the Nevada Chicken Ranch from Las Vegas?
The Nevada Chicken Ranch is approximately 60 miles west of Las Vegas, near the town of Pahrump.
Is the Nevada Chicken Ranch legal?
Yes, it operates as a legal, licensed brothel in Nye County, where prostitution is permitted in licensed establishments outside of incorporated town limits.
Can I visit the Chicken Ranch in Nevada just to look around?
The property does have the Leghorn Bar with a separate entrance for visitors who don’t wish to enter the brothel parlor, but general tours aren’t typically offered.
Is the Chicken Ranch restaurant in Arizona related to the brothels?
No, the Chicken Ranch in Surprise, Arizona is simply a restaurant with a similar name. It has no connection to either of the brothel locations.
What happened to the madam of the Texas Chicken Ranch?
Edna Milton, the last madam of the Texas Chicken Ranch, had a silent role in the Broadway production of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.” She passed away in 2012 in Phoenix, Arizona at the age of 84.
In Conclusion
When someone asks “Where is the Chicken Ranch?”, the answer really depends on which Chicken Ranch they’re talking about! From the historical brothel in Texas to the active legal establishment in Nevada to the family restaurant in Arizona, the name has been applied to some very different businesses.
Have you ever visited any of these Chicken Ranch locations? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Chicken Ranch Interiors (202
Photos from Universal Studios Lot instagram (@universalstudioslot)
About A Boy Photos (201
The structures at the rear of the house were removed leaving a larger yard area, and improving the look of the rear considerably.