History & Heritage
A Few of the Locally-Filmed Movies True Grit Film Location – Ridgway Western Heritage Society/Edward Bovy
Visit Famous Filming Locations
T
he Ridgway area is a favorite among film buffs, especially Western lovers. The rugged peaks, steep canyons, rustic mine buildings and historic landmarks make you feel as though you are still in the Old West. Many film sites, buildings, props and embellishments may still be seen around the area today. Our iconic mountains and charming small towns have been the backdrop for more than 100 films over the years, including classic Westerns such as the original production of True Grit starring John Wayne. For that illustrious film, the Town of Ridgway was turned into Fort Smith, Arkansas, where Judge Isaac Parker, the famous “hanging judge” held court. Ouray’s historic courthouse, the meadows on Owl Creek Pass, and a homestead on Dallas Divide were also featured. Ridgway’s biggest Hollywood name to make his home and mark here was Billy Dennis Weaver, the late, Emmy Awardwinning American actor. He was best known for his work in television, including roles in Gunsmoke, McCloud and Steven Spielberg’s movie, Duel. Weaver and his family contributed greatly to our community, building the big barn live entertainment Riding Horses on Clinton venue, that is now the Ridgway Christian Street – Elizabeth Riley Center, and their energy-efficient Earthship home. Their most lasting legacy is 80-acre Dennis Weaver Memorial Park (see page 28).
Ridgway Old West Fest
The Old West Fest celebrates Ridgway’s movie, ranching and railroad heritage. The 2022 festival is being planned, and is expected to include a Wild West show and a concert.
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2022 Official Visitor’s Guide RIDGWAY
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Tribute to a Bad Man (1956, Ridgway) - James Cagney
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How the West Was Won (1962, Ridgway, Montrose, Silverton, Durango) - Henry Fonda, John Wayne, Gregory Peck, James Stewart, and Debbie Reynolds
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True Grit (1969, Ridgway, Ouray, Montrose, Gunnison) - John Wayne, Glenn Campbell, Robert Duvall, and Dennis Hopper
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Over the Top (1987, Ouray) - Sylvester Stallone
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Dennis Weaver’s Earthship (1990, Ridgway) - Dennis Weaver
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The Sunchaser (1996, Ouray) - Woody Harrelson
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Alferd Packer: The Musical aka Cannibal! The Musical (1993, Ouray, Lake City, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park) - Stan Brakhage
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Darling Companion (2012, Telluride) - Kevin Klein and Diane Keaton
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Flow State (2012, San Juan Mountains) - Warren Miller The Hateful Eight (2015, Telluride)- Quentin Tarantino and an all-star cast
True Grit Walking Tour
Relive the exciting days in 1968 when Ridgway was transformed into Fort Smith, Arkansas and John Wayne, Henry Hathaway, Robert Duval and Glen Campbell came for the filming of True Grit. A knowledgeable guide will escort you to filming locations around town and share insights about local film history and little-known facts and anecdotes about the Duke. Tours, lasting about an hour, are offered weekly June through September. Groups of six or more can request a tour at any time of year. Groups of 10 or more who pay cash receive a 10% discount. For information, cost and reservations, call 970-626-5181. Another option is to take a self-guided True Grit tour at your convenience. See the map at www.ridgwaycolorado.com/things-to-do/historyheritage/true-grit-walking-tours. Ridgway Western Heritage Society P.O. Box 1435, Ridgway, CO 81432 970.626.4373 www.ridgwayoldwestfest.org
