It was here that it happened...here it was written...and here it lives today!
Hop on a Jeep-drawn tram to enjoy a 45-minute tour of The Shepherd of the Hills Homestead. Your first stop will be the original structure of Old Matt's Cabin, which served as the Ross family home for approximately 30 years before it was established in history through Harold Bell Wright's famous novel (and on the National Registry of Historic Places). Inside the cabin you will find numerous antiques and historical items, including clothing worn by John and Anna Ross, some of their furniture, photographs, tools, cooking utensils, and much more.
Next, journey to the top of Inspiration Tower, the 230' lookout tower built in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Harold Bell Wright's first visit to the Ozark Mountains. (And don't worry, we have elevators!) Enjoy the lower-level gift shop, the glass elevators, and the amazing views seen from both the enclosed section and the open observation deck. You can't find a better view of such beautiful year-round scenery.
The following stop will be at a quaint church relocated to the homestead from Morgan County, Missouri. The church was constructed in 1901 and resembles one that Harold Bell Wright preached in during his time in Kansas.
Take a behind-the-scenes look at The Shepherd of the Hills Outdoor Drama during the next phase of your tour. The tour guide will take you down on set, where you will be up close with Old Matt's steam engine and grist mill. Here you will learn all that it takes to put on the production every night. (Perhaps you'll even get to meet Houdini, the wandering mule!)
This isn't all: you'll also get to peer into Little Pete's Cave; see a real, working moonshine still; go through the Harold Bell Wright Museum; and visit the horses at the stables. After your tour, you can stroll through our gift shops and maybe have a snack (or a meal) at Aunt Mollie's Restaurant while the kids check out the playground. There's always something happening at the Homestead!
Open 10am-5pm
Tram leaves on the hour between 10 and 4 pm.
