THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS, first published in 1907, became an immediate best-seller and one of the first million-selling books by an American author. The book was acclaimed novelist Harold Bell Wright’s second publication, and almost certainly his most famous work. It was translated into seven different languages and made into four movies, one starring John Wayne in his first Technicolor film. The book sparked the beginning of tourism in Branson, Missouri and the Ozark Mountain region of Missouri.

THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS is also the name of an Outdoor Theater established in 1960 setting the stage for a place to reenact Harold Bell Wrights epic story of love, loss, power, hardship and the true meaning of life. THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS is also the name of the original Homestead area where Harold Bell Wright camped for 8 summers to regain his health and was inspired to write about the wonderful people and history of the Ozarks Branson area.

The nation's interest in Branson started when they first read this book in 1907 and continues strong today. As you drive around town you will find businesses and streets named for characters and people found in the book: Aunt Mollies, Little Pete's Lane, SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS Expressway, Sammy Lane Resort, to name a few.

The THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS Outdoor Drama is presented live with over 80 actors and actresses, 40 horses, a flock of sheep, several guns and rifles, an actual burning log cabin, and a vintage 1908 DeWitt automobile to make the live action performance what it is - a legend. During the day, you can hop on a jeep-drawn tram for a guided tour of the homestead. A visit to THE SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS Historic Homestead is an excellent way to learn more about the characters and the history behind one of America 's best loved stories!