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Location: 7A North BoardwalkBranson, MO 65616
History of Tourism in Branson
In 1960, tourism in Branson began to thrive, prompting the Missouri Pacific to suspend all passenger operations on its White River Line.
With so many people arriving by car, traffic on the twisting U.S. 65 from Springfield to Branson frequently delayed passage. To reduce the 75-mile route between Springfield and Branson to 40 miles, dynamite teams and earth-moving equipment helped create a new road through the limestone hills. Branson has long received an influx of visitors from adjacent Missouri communities since the construction of this new route.
Branson has become a popular tourist destination due to its gorgeous landscape, rich history, outstanding attractions, and exciting activities. The thrilling boat adventure in Branson is one of the newest things many visitors want to enjoy on the water. Check out these crucial Branson historical facts to learn more about the city's tourism history.
Early Beginnings
Tourism in Branson began to take root in the early 20th century. In 1894, Canadian mining expert William Henry Lynch purchased Marvel Cave, a natural wonder discovered by the Osage Indians around 1500 AD. Lynch transformed the cave into a tourist attraction, marking the start of Branson's appeal to visitors. By the 1920s, Marvel Cave drew significant attention, with tourists traveling far and wide to explore its depths.
Literary Influence
Harold Bell Wright moved to the Ozarks in 1898 and settled at the property of John and Anna Ross. Inspired by his lovely life in Branson, Missouri, Wright penned The Shepherd of the Hills, published in 1907 as a tribute to the grandeur of the Ozarks and its people. The novel's publication was a major success, with millions of copies sold.
The publication of "The Shepherd of the Hills" in 1907 significantly boosted tourism in Branson. The novel, which depicted the beauty of the Ozarks and the lives of its people, became a nationwide bestseller.
The story's setting attracted many fans to Branson, eager to see the real-life inspiration behind the book. In 1923, the Ross family's homestead, featured in the novel, was turned into a museum, further cementing Branson's status as a tourist destination.
Tourism to the area increased for over a decade after the book's publication, with many people inquiring about "Old Matt's Cabin," as Wright referred to the Ross Homestead in the novel. Lizzie McDaniel bought the Ross Homestead in 1923 and turned it into a museum. McDaniel was also the first to host the Shepherd of the Hills narrative reenactments on the homestead's lawn.
1959/1960s – Live Music Makes Its Mark in Branson
The Mabe brothers, known as the Baldknobbers, established Branson's reputation as the first city in Missouri to hold live entertainment events in 1959. The group's blend of country tunes and comedy became a great formula for the country music genre in Branson, which is still seen in many popular shows today.
The singing comedians relocated from their previous venue near Lake Taneycomo to their new theater on W. Country Rd.
Silver Dollar City and the Rise of Live Entertainment
Branson's tourism industry took another leap forward in 1960 with the opening of Silver Dollar City. Built around Marvel Cave by the Herschend family, Silver Dollar City featured an 1880s Ozark Mountain Village, complete with craftspeople, themed shops, and live entertainment. The park quickly became Missouri's most popular tourist attraction.
The same year, the Mabe brothers, the Baldknobbers, began performing country music and comedy shows in Branson. Their success established Branson as a live entertainment capital. This reputation continues today, with numerous theaters and performances drawing visitors year-round. Silver Dollar City is a favorite destination after a fantastic boat adventure in Branson.
1980s – More and More Things to Do in Branson
Visitors were drawn to the area by the live music shows in Branson and numerous other outdoor leisure activities. Branson has boosted its entertainment offerings and increased the length of stay for guests for many years.
1984 – Marvel Cave Opens for Tourists
Around 1500 AD, the Osage Indians found Marvel Cave for the first time. In 1541, the Spanish visited the area in search of the Fountain of Youth but were disappointed. St. Louis miners visited the location in 1869, searching for lead ore and marble, but were equally disappointed.
When Canadian mining expert William Henry Lynch learned about the Marvel Cave, he bought it. He relocated to the Ozarks with his two daughters to develop the Ozarks' first tourist attraction. Marvel Cave opened its doors to visitors in 1894 and has operated for nearly 50 years.
In 1950, the Herschend family leased the cave and made significant modifications to give tourists easy access. The Herschend family began the development of Silver Dollar City in 1960 when they erected an 1880s Ozark Mountain Village surrounding the entrance to Marvel Cave.
With so many tourist attractions in Branson, many guests who have had a good vacation in this renowned Midwest vacation location want to extend their stay and enjoy extra activities, such as a thrilling boat adventure in Branson.
Your Lake Adventure Awaits!
Branson Jet Boats gives you an unforgettable lake adventure. Departing from the world class destination at the Branson Landing, our boats will take you up & down Lake Taneycomo, where you will experience an incredible combination of fantastic scenery, full 360 spinouts, power stops, and slides - all executed by our experienced and knowledgeable captains.
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7A N Boardwalk Branson, MO, 65616
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