10/25/2026
ON THIS DAY IN ARIZONA RANGERS HISTORY | OCTOBER 25, 1905
The Tiburon Island Expedition
On this date 121 years ago, Arizona Rangers Captain Thomas Rynning was preparing an unusual mission: a search for three missing American prospectors on Tiburon Island, off the coast of Mexico.
The men had traveled to the island during the summer of 1905 in pursuit of a rumored gold mine. Of the four who made the journey, only one returned.
Determined to investigate their disappearance, Captain Rynning assembled a team that included several Arizona Rangers and members of the Mexican Rurales.
With approval from Arizona’s territorial governor, the Rangers voluntarily took 30 days of unpaid leave to participate in the search.
Although the expedition recovered belongings and equipment from the missing party, the three men were never found.
This remarkable chapter in Arizona Rangers history offers a glimpse into the responsibilities, challenges, and personal sacrifices undertaken by those who served in the organization’s earliest years.
More than a century later, the Arizona Rangers continue a tradition of volunteer service, dedication, and commitment to the communities they serve.
Sun Lakes Company is proud to help preserve and share the history of the Arizona Rangers.
Our history matters. Our legacy continues.
Historical information provided by Lt. Nick Cain, Arizona Rangers State Historian.
Arizona Rangers — Sun Lakes Company
