Branson is a very attractive vacation destination for many different kinds of people. The summer tourist season brings in families, school and club groups, corporate vacationers, photographers, naturalists, fishermen and women, adrenaline junkies, foodies, foreign exchange students, and of course, history buffs. Branson, Missouri, settled deep into the Ozark Hills, is rich in history and heritage. And not just natural history – many of the most famous attractions in Branson have a historical story behind them! There is some amazing history in Branson almost everywhere you look – read on for some of the area’s best historical hotspots!
Shepherd of the Hills:
The best known historical site in Branson is the Shepherd of the Hills Historic Homestead and Old Mill Theater. This is where the famous book by Harold Bell Wright was written that drew thousands to Branson – it is the home of the town’s tourism industry! Shepherd of the Hills has grown from the place where a kind homestead couple took in a weary, traveling author, to an attraction where people from all walks of life can watch a live theater production, ride horses, tour the historic homestead, catch a glimpse of Branson from one of the highest elevations in America, and zipline at 50 miles per hour! A trip to Shepherd of the Hills is one of Branson’s most educational – and fun! – historical attractions.
Table Rock Dam:
Many people think that the Table Rock Dam is just something they drive over that holds the water in the lake. But the Table Rock Dam is so much more than that! It has a fascinating history in the role of Branson’s fishing industry. The Table Rock Dam was built in the 1950s, at the urging of Congressman Dewey Short, to alleviate the severe flooding problems along the White River. The CCC and the Army Corps of Engineers worked together to build the now famous dam. All the history can be found in the Dewey Short Visitors Center, plus you can take a tour of the inner working of the dam!
Silver Dollar City:
Silver Dollar City, one of America’s most beloved theme parks (that also happens to make a home in Branson!) is not only home to famous roller coasters, it is also home to a lot of great history in the Ozarks as well! Silver Dollar City was, at first, a side attraction for those waiting in line to tour Marvel Cave. Its popularity grew into the multi-million dollar theme park we visit today! Inside its gates, you will find historic crafts being made by 21st century craftsmen, heritage Ozarks food and music (bluegrass, anyone?), and even rides with historical themes – like Fire in the Hole! You won’t want to miss a trip to this great history filled theme park.
These are just a few of the great places in Branson where history buffs will find themselves at home. You never know what kind of historical discoveries you might make in Branson!
