This page has been left up for historical purposes.

Shepherd of the Hills Farm

During the day, guests tour the very log house where Wright first experienced Ozark Hospitality. Old-fashioned jitneys pulled by giant Clydesdale horses offer rides around the upper part of the Homestead. Motorized trams ply the steep wooded hillsides, dropping folks off to watch Ozarks artisans at work and to explore the rustic village which, after dark, becomes a giant stage where Wrights book is brought back to life.

Visitors stroll about the Homestead, walk or ride to Inspiration Point, and ascend the 230 foot enclosed tower to enjoy views of the hills and valleys for miles in every direction. Near the base of the tower are stone sculptures of characters from The Shepherd of the Hills and the reconstructed ninety year old church similar to those in which Wright preached during the years he lived in the Ozarks.

On Saturday night, August 6, 1959, The Shepherd of the Hills play was first presented in the Old Mill Theater at the Shepherd of the Hills farm. The actors who performed that night and through the early years of the play were drawn from nearby communities. In the years since, many of them and their children and grandchildren have continued to be involved with the play, and have become leaders in the development of many of Branson's current businesses and musical and recreational attractions.

In 1985, Gary Snadon announced that he had bought the Shepherd of the Hills farm. Snadon, a local resident, performed one of the lead roles in the Shepherd of the Hills drama for several years in the 1960's. He chose as his business manager Jerry Coffelt, who had been involved with the farm and play for many years.

Soon after Snadon took over the farm, the name of the attraction was changed to the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Outdoor Theater. His stated objectives were to keep the play and the farm faithful to The Shepherd of the Hills book, and to entertain the customers. His ownership has brought a full schedule of daytime entertainment and activities to the Homestead.

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