South Fork Ranch is a sprawling estate located in Parker, Texas, just outside of Dallas. It gained worldwide fame as the primary filming location for the popular TV series “Dallas,” which aired from 1978 to 1991. With its luxurious mansion and vast surrounding grounds, the ranch continues to be a major tourist attraction and a symbol of the Texas oil industry.
As for who currently owns South Fork Ranch, it was purchased by a Dallas-based oil executive named J.R. “Jay” O’Brien in 1972. O’Brien, who was inspired by the show’s success, acquired the property with the intention of turning it into a tourist destination and capitalizing on the show’s popularity. His vision came to fruition, and South Fork Ranch has remained in the O’Brien family ever since.
Today, South Fork Ranch is owned and managed by J.R. O’Brien’s son, J.R. “Skip” O’Brien Jr. Along with his family, Skip O’Brien continues to preserve the rich history and legacy of the ranch. Visitors can explore the mansion, take a guided tour of the grounds, and even attend special events and weddings at South Fork. The ranch offers a glimpse into the glamorous and dramatic world of “Dallas” and remains an iconic symbol of Texas and the oil industry that shaped its history.
South Fork Ranch in Texas: Ownership and History
The South Fork Ranch is a historic property located in Parker, Texas, about 25 miles north of Dallas. It is widely recognized as the setting for the popular television series “Dallas,” which aired from 1978 to 1991. The ranch served as the fictional Ewing family’s residence and played a significant role in the show’s storyline.
Ownership History
The South Fork Ranch was originally built in 1970 as a private residence for oil tycoon Lamar Hunt and his wife, Norma. However, shortly after the construction, the couple sold the ranch to a Dallas businessman named Joe Duncan, who had a vision of turning it into a tourist attraction.
In 1978, in the midst of the television show’s success, Duncan partnered with actor Larry Hagman, who portrayed J.R. Ewing on the show, to purchase the ranch. They bought the property with the intention of preserving it as a tourist destination and capitalizing on its role in the series.
Over the years, ownership of the South Fork Ranch has changed hands multiple times. In 1985, Duncan sold his share to Hagman and his wife, making them the sole owners. After Larry Hagman’s death in 2012, his daughter, Kristina Hagman, became the owner of the ranch.
Current Ownership
As of 2021, the South Fork Ranch is owned and operated by a company called Forever Resorts, which specializes in the management of recreational properties and hospitality services. The company acquired the property in 2016, following Kristina Hagman’s decision to sell the ranch.
Under Forever Resorts’ ownership, the South Fork Ranch continues to attract visitors from around the world. Guided tours of the ranch are available, allowing fans of the “Dallas” series to explore the iconic filming locations and learn about the history of the Ewing family and the show.
Today, the South Fork Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring popularity of “Dallas” and remains an important cultural landmark in Texas.
Exploring the Past of South Fork Ranch
South Fork Ranch, located in Parker, Texas, is a destination that attracts thousands of visitors each year. This iconic ranch has a rich history that dates back to the early 1970s when it gained worldwide fame as the primary filming location for the popular television series “Dallas”.
The History of South Fork
The South Fork Ranch was originally built in 1970 by oil tycoon Clint Murchison Jr. and his wife, Alice. The mansion, spanning over 10,000 square feet, became the backdrop for the fictional Ewing family’s lavish lifestyle in the hit TV show. The series gave viewers an inside look into the lives of the wealthy and powerful oil tycoons of Dallas.
The Influence of “Dallas”
With the success of “Dallas”, South Fork Ranch quickly became a major tourist attraction. Fans of the show flocked to the ranch to catch a glimpse of the iconic mansion and to immerse themselves in the world of the Ewing family. Many visitors still come to South Fork Ranch today to relive the drama and intrigue of the infamous television series.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 1978 | South Fork Ranch first opens to the public for tours. |
| 1985 | The final episode of “Dallas” airs, marking the end of the series. |
| 1989 | South Fork Ranch is sold to a private investor. |
| 1992 | The ranch undergoes extensive renovation to restore its original grandeur. |
| 2012 | The new South Fork Ranch Visitor’s Center is opened to the public. |
Today, South Fork Ranch continues to be a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours of the mansion and surrounding grounds. Visitors can explore the rooms featured in the show, view memorabilia from the series, and even take a horseback ride through the scenic ranch. South Fork Ranch stands as a nostalgic reminder of a television show that captivated audiences around the world and left a lasting impact on popular culture.
Current Ownership of South Fork Ranch
The ownership of South Fork Ranch, located in Texas, has changed hands several times over the years. Currently, the ranch is privately owned by a family trust.
The family trust, established by the current owners, ensures the preservation and maintenance of the iconic ranch. The trust is responsible for overseeing the ranch’s operations and making strategic decisions for its future.
Previous Owners
Prior to being owned by the family trust, South Fork Ranch had a storied history of ownership. One of the most notable previous owners was oil tycoon H.L. Hunt, who purchased the property in the 1950s.
During his ownership, H.L. Hunt made significant renovations and expanded the ranch to its current size. The ranch gained national recognition when it served as the fictional Ewing family’s home in the popular television series “Dallas.”
Preservation and Legacy
The current owners are dedicated to preserving South Fork Ranch’s rich history and ensuring its legacy as a cultural landmark. The ranch is periodically opened to the public, allowing visitors to experience the charm and beauty of the iconic property.
Various events and activities take place on the ranch, celebrating its connection to the television series and providing an immersive experience for fans. The owners also support philanthropic initiatives and community engagement to honor the ranch’s significance.
South Fork Ranch remains an important symbol of Texas history and culture, and its current ownership is committed to maintaining its heritage for future generations to enjoy.
South Fork Ranch: A Popular Tourist Attraction
South Fork Ranch is a historic ranch located in Parker, Texas. It gained worldwide fame as the iconic setting for the popular TV series “Dallas”. This sprawling ranch has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Owned by Dallas Cowboys football legend, Lamar Hunt, South Fork Ranch offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the glamour and intrigue of the Ewing family. The ranch provides guided tours that take visitors through the famous Ewing Mansion, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the oil-rich family portrayed on the show.
During the tour, visitors can explore the various rooms of the mansion, including the famous living room, dining room, and bedrooms. They can also see the iconic ranch landmarks, such as the swimming pool and the famous South Fork oil derricks.
Aside from the mansion, South Fork Ranch also offers visitors the chance to wander through the tranquil grounds surrounding the property. The ranch features beautiful gardens, walking trails, and even a petting zoo, making it a perfect destination for families.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of events and activities held at the ranch throughout the year. From horse shows to cowboy cookouts, there is always something fun and exciting happening at South Fork Ranch.
Whether you’re a fan of the TV series “Dallas” or simply looking for a unique historical experience, South Fork Ranch is a must-visit destination. Immerse yourself in the world of the Ewings and relive the drama and intrigue that captivated audiences around the world.
Preserving the Legacy of South Fork Ranch
South Fork Ranch, located in Texas, is not just a historic landmark, but a slice of television history. Made famous by the hit TV show “Dallas,” the ranch has remained an iconic symbol of luxury and intrigue. Preserving the legacy of South Fork Ranch is a priority for its current owners, who understand the cultural significance of such a remarkable property.
Maintaining Authenticity
One of the key aspects of preserving the legacy of South Fork Ranch is maintaining its authenticity. The owners work tirelessly to ensure that the ranch remains as true to its original form as possible. From the architecture to the interior design, every detail is carefully preserved to recreate the atmosphere that captivated audiences worldwide.
This commitment to authenticity extends to the ranch’s famous Ewing Mansion, where the show’s fictional Ewing family resides. Visitors can step into the world of “Dallas” and experience the grandeur of the South Fork Ranch just as it appeared on television. The owners understand the importance of immersing visitors in the show’s history and strive to provide an unforgettable experience.
Preserving the Legacy for Future Generations
While South Fork Ranch holds a special place in television history, it also serves as a cherished destination for visitors and locals alike. The owners recognize the ranch’s significance to the community and are committed to preserving its legacy for future generations.
Through educational programs, guided tours, and special events, the owners aim to share the rich history of South Fork Ranch with the public. They understand that by educating others about the ranch’s role in television and popular culture, they can ensure its importance is never forgotten.
South Fork Ranch is not just a tourist attraction; it’s a cultural treasure. The dedication to preserving its legacy is a testament to the owners’ commitment to honoring the past and inspiring future generations.
