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Filming in Santa Clarita began shortly after the
turn of the 20th century with a veritable Who's
Who of actors including William S. Hart, Charlie
Chaplin, Tom Mix, Harry Carey and John
Wayne. Hart and Carey made their homes in
the Santa Clarita Valley; today both homes are
operated as county parks. An endless string
of hard riding, shoot-em-up western films
have filmed at Melody Ranch Motion Picture
Studio, a historic movie ranch in Santa Clarita.
Legendary cowboy actors, including Gary
Cooper, Roy Rogers, Bill Boyd and John Wayne
filmed their westerns here. Melody Ranch is still
used frequently today and was most recently
home to HBO’s acclaimed series “Deadwood”
and newest addition “Westworld” among other
modern day commercials, television shows
and movies, such as Django Unchained.
Santa Clarita’s western roots and influential
pastimes have ultimately led to a prolific,
beautiful and safe community that is rich in
old traditions and new innovations. Head to
SCVHistory.com to learn more.
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