Post #108727 by TikiGardener on Mon, Aug 16, 2004 8:39 PM

As to the Ranch's cultural value, while the memory of Bonanza is fading, the history or the west is a cornerstone of the American identity. And while the history presented at the Ponderosa was more than likely heavily skewed to gloss over the varoius injustices and slaughters of the olde west, the value of the items there alone would seem to lend something to the argument for preserving it. Along with its television history value.

Apparently the place has quite a collection of western historical pieces. I gather they had one of the Donner Party Wagons that had been dredged from Donner lake. Along with the Television stuff. So it seems it has the tv kitsch historical value, but also has a museum value.

The fact that it was so close to being bought by the state, but ended up going to a private party doesn't bode to well for preservation, but one can hope that some of its value will be recognised by the new owners.

It is a shame that alot of the stuff is going to be auctioned off.

But who knows, maybe the world will spn just right, and the planets will align to help preserve some of this site for others to enjoy.

tg