Customer Reviews

Holy Hills of the Ozarks: Religion and Tourism in Branson, Missouri (Lived Religions)

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As a resident of Branson for 40 years and a small contributor to Author Ketchell's book, I certainly have an interest in the topics of this story. The subject of religion - values, Christianity, church, God, and families are ever present in Branson. We make no apology for that. I believe the historical view, though, adds context to the fascinating story of Branson's tourism success. As a small community of 7500 residents, opening our doors yearly to 8 million visitors from across the US and world, we continue to find that our measure of wholesome family entertainment appeals to a significant audience. Part look back and part questioning the future of Branson, Mr. Ketchell has captured the push and pull of our small world here in Branson, which also mirrors the issue across the U.S. I would recommend this book if you are interested in tourism and the religious market, or just a fan of Branson.

The author traces the origins of religious tourism in the Ozarks of southern Missouri/northern Arkansas. He begins by examining the long-lasting influence of Harold Bell Wright's 1907 book The Shepherd of the Hills on area tourism. He goes on to explore the evolution and Protestant evangelical underpinnings of tourist sites such as Marvel Cave, Silver Dollar City theme park, and Branson concert venues. The book reads like the doctoral dissertation it originally was, but by skimming the academese the cultural history enthusiast can still enjoy learning about the origins of tourism in this distinctive region.