The History of Silver Dollar City

There is no doubt that Silver Dollar City has made its name known worldwide because of the world-class entertainment it offers. It has been Branson’s most famous theme park because of the variety of entertainment it offers, and the right mix of relaxation and excitement it brings. A unique theme park like Silver Dollar City is full of its own history and heritage that is worth knowing. For sure, a theme park this great would be nothing if it did not come from something great, too. Get to know more about Silver Dollar City and how it came to be.

When talking about the history of Silver Dollar City, one cannot help but also talk about the history of the Herschend Family. This family was the brains behind the birth of one of the world’s most famous theme park. The Herschends, husband and wife Hugo and Mary Herschend, together with their sons, Jack and Pete, went on a vacation in the Ozarks and they instantly fell in love with the beauty and the rich heritage of the area. It was in 1951 when the Herschends decided to settle in the Ozarks. It was also in that year when Hugo had a long term lease on the famous Marvel Cave. The long term lease lasted for 99 years. After Hugo died in 1955, Mary and her sons continued to improve the cave. They made improvements such as putting up electricity, walkways, and a cable train for the guests to take part in a cave tour. Marvel Cave then became a popular attraction in the Ozarks. More tourists and visitors flocked to the cave attraction in Branson. A small replica of a town was built outside the cave so that the visitors can be entertained as they wait for their turn.

The name Silver Dollar City was then coined to attract more visitors. Back then, a silver dollar was given to the guests so they could spend the money and tell other people where that silver dollar came from. Word spread quickly and from then on, Silver Dollar City was a huge success.

In the present, the Herschend Family Entertainment already owns 26 theme park enterprises in 10 states. Some of these are Dollywood, The Harlem Globetrotters, Adventure Aquarium, Dixie Stampede, and White Water.

It all started with passing around silver dollars. If it wasn’t for that, then Branson would not have known its phenomenal theme park that will become the standard of all theme parks. Silver Dollar City has a rich history. It is also guaranteed to give you loads of fun! Visit Silver Dollar City now and have memories to keep for a lifetime.

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