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Gene Autry's Melody Ranch: A Western Icon Rebuilt
9 Sep
Summary
- Opened in 1915 as Monogram Studios, it was a film setting before Gene Autry's ownership.
- A 1962 fire destroyed 54 structures and much of Autry's collection.
- Restored by the Veluzat family, it continues to serve as a film location.
Melody Ranch began its life in 1915 as Monogram Studios, serving as a foundational site for early Hollywood Westerns, including productions by John Wayne. Gene Autry acquired the Newhall property in 1952, renaming it Melody Ranch and adapting it for the burgeoning television industry.
Under Autry's ownership, the ranch became a hub for his Flying A Pictures productions and hosted iconic series like Hopalong Cassidy and Gunsmoke. Autry also amassed a significant personal collection on the property, with plans for a museum.
Tragedy struck on August 28, 1962, when a massive fire swept through Placerita Canyon, consuming 54 structures and a vast portion of Autry's collection. This event marked the end of its era as a large-scale production facility.
Following the fire, Autry gradually sold off much of the land. In 1990, after Champion Three's death, the remaining ranch was sold to the Veluzat family, who were already involved in film ranch operations. They undertook a meticulous restoration, using historical photographs and footage to rebuild key sets.
The restored Melody Ranch once again became a sought-after filming location, notably for HBO's Deadwood. It also retains a museum and hosts the annual Santa Clarita Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival, celebrating its rich Western heritage.
