Back in 1840, when the Lobos district was practically the limit of civilized Argentina, Don Orestes Piñeiro, pharmacist, and his brother Jose, began to purchase plots of land in this area. They went into sheep rearing with very good results, which led them to buy larger extensions, sense the beginning of this estancia.
La Candelaria was named after Mrs. Candelaria Del Marmol, wife of Orestes.
Thorough breeds were imported from Europe in order to up grade the quality of horses and sheep.
The couple were unable to bear children, so they adopted a little girl and named her Rebeca.
As from 1900, Don Manuel Fraga, their future son-in-law begins to participate in the running of the farm. After the passing of Don Orestes and Doña Candelaria in 1909, Fraga takes over the management entirely, and due to the importation and interbreeding of cattle, and modernization of the farm, excellent quality is achieved.
A man of very refined taste, he contracted architects and landscapers to design buildings, parks, lakes, gardens and forests, which make “La Candelaria” unique in style.
When he dies in 1935, his wife Rebeca puts the running of the establishment in the hands of her brother-in-law, Roberto Fraga.
Between 1936 and 1940, their different breeds obtain the highest qualifications.
Mrs. Rebeca Del Marmol Fraga dies on January 20th, 1940 and Roberto Fraga assumes the functions of director and administrator of “La Candelaria” continuing the task of the founders.
The remains of most of the members of the family were laid to rest in the chapel built on the grounds of the estancia.
