History
The Ozarks and Branson gained popularity from Harold Bell Wright’s classic novel “The Shepherd of the Hills,” published in 1907. Since then, Branson has attracted visitors with its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. In 1959, the Mabe brothers began performing on the shores of Lake Taneycomo. In 1962, the Presley family began entertaining visitors in nearby Kimberling City. The Presleys built the first theater along Highway 76 Strip in 1967, followed by the Mabe Brothers, now known as the Baldknobbers, who built their theater in 1968.
In 1960, the Herschend family opened an old-time Ozarks village attraction atop the already popular Marvel Cave, now called the Silver Dollar City theme park. It offers a glimpse into 1880s life of early Ozark Mountain settlers, complete with working craftsmen and folklore display of the Ozarks region.
Branson rose to national prominence as an entertainment destination during the early 1990’s when the CBS program 60 Minutes dubbed the area the “Country Music Mecca.” Since then, an increase in the number and diversity of shows, attractions and lodging amenities (and resulting visitors) has made Branson one of the top vacation destinations in the country. Most recently, Branson was featured in a daytime drama As the World Turns.
