Whispers of wind carry tales here at Spahn Ranch. It was once a bustling movie set. Now, it’s part of the Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park. But its history is more complex than just Western films and open spaces.
Spahn Ranch spanned 55 acres. Lee and Ruth McReynolds built some movie sets here. This was next to their trading post in 1947. They hoped to capture overflow from the nearby Iverson Movie Ranch. The mountainous terrain made it ideal for Westerns.
In 1953, George Spahn purchased the ranch. He continued some filming. However, the ranch became known for its horse rentals. Locals enjoyed horseback riding through the varied acres. Spahn added more sets.
But the late 1960s brought a darker chapter. Spahn was 80 years old. He was going blind. Charles Manson and his “Family” moved onto the ranch. They lived there rent-free. In exchange, they helped with daily chores. They also assisted with the horse-rental business. This became Spahn’s primary income.
Lynette Fromme, a Manson Family member, cared for George Spahn. She later described him as mentally present. Despite his blindness, he worked through frustrations of lost authority.
The Manson Family’s presence marked a turning point for Spahn Ranch. It became their headquarters. They plotted their infamous crimes here.
In August 1969, after the Tate-LaBianca murders, police raided Spahn Ranch. Over one hundred officers arrested several Family members. This was due to suspicion of an automobile theft ring.
Donald “Shorty” Shea, a Spahn employee, confronted Manson. Shortly after, Family members ambushed and killed Shea. They believed he had reported them to the police. His remains were found in December 1977. Spahn was never accused of any role in the murders.
During this period, Robert Hendrickson filmed the Manson Family at Spahn Ranch. His documentary included Spahn, Fromme, and other Family members.
In September 1970, a wildfire destroyed all the film sets and buildings. Spahn Ranch never recovered. George Spahn died in 1974.
Today, Spahn Ranch is part of the Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park. Hiking trails offer views of the San Fernando Valley. The “Devil’s Slide” section of the Old Santa Susana Stage Road lies on the park’s western side.
Spahn Ranch also appears in popular culture. Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” features the ranch. However, filming took place at Corriganville Park in Simi Valley.
Now, as you stand here, remember the layers of history at Spahn Ranch. From a movie set to a dark chapter in American crime. It serves as a reminder of the complex stories. These stories are woven into the landscape of Los Angeles.