The classic television series „Little House on the Prairie,“ based on Laura Ingalls Wilder’s semi-autobiographical novels, captured the essence of pioneering life in the late 19th century. Although set in Minnesota, most filming occurred in Southern California.
Key Filming Locations
Several notable locations contributed to the show’s authentic feel:
- Big Sky Movie Ranch: Located in Simi Valley, California, this expansive ranch served as the backdrop for the Ingalls family farm and the town of Walnut Grove. The ranch features over 7,000 acres of diverse terrains and has hosted numerous film productions.
- MGM Studios: The interior scenes of the Ingalls home were filmed on soundstages at MGM, where the sets were relocated after the fifth season.
- Old Tucson Studios: The nearby town of Mankato was filmed at Old Tucson, Arizona, known for its historic Western sets used in many films.
Destruction of Sets
As the series concluded, the Walnut Grove set met its end through a dramatic explosion. This decision was made to restore the land to its original state. Although there were attempts to create replicas for tourism, a fire in 2003 destroyed these sets.
For fans of the show, the legacy of „Little House on the Prairie“ lives on through these iconic filming locations, though the original sets are no longer accessible.
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