On February 22, 1993, Epstein's shell company the Zorro Trust completed a purchase of lands owned by members of the King family, a powerful New Mexico agricultural and political dynasty that included then-Governor Bruce King.

Zorro's deal included rights to the Kings' leases on public lands, a total of 1,159 acres rented for $872.22 a year. The entire ranch, including privately held land, totaled nearly 8,000 acres.

According to county records, Epstein began constructing a stable, detached garages, and homes in 1994, and began building his mansion in 1999. Including porches and patios, the mansion came to 57,420 square feet.

Epstein also inquired about building a private airstrip on the leased public land - but when he was informed state officials would need to inspect the land, he quickly withdrew the permit request and built the airstrip on the privately held portion of the ranch. 

The ranch is surrounded on nearly all sides by land owned by the powerful King family, insulating it from prying eyes. Fashion designer Tom Ford, whose name is in Epstein's 'little black book', also maintains a massive 20,000-acre ranch not far to the north.

Jeffery Epstein

Famous owners