A Journey Through Time at Shepherd Hills

As we rolled into Branson, Missouri, the familiar hum of our RV was a comforting reminder of the countless road trips my husband and I have embarked on over the years. This time, our destination was the Bluegrass BBQ Bash at Shepherd Hills, a place that promised a blend of history, music, and the great outdoors. The allure of the Ozarks, with its rich tapestry of stories and landscapes, was irresistible.

Upon arrival, the historic grounds of Shepherd’s Adventure Park beckoned us to explore. The setting, steeped in the legacy of Harold Bell Wright’s novel, “Shepherd of the Hills,” was a nostalgic nod to a bygone era. As we wandered through the park, the echoes of the past seemed to whisper through the trees, telling tales of rugged mountain life. The expansive play area, complete with mini-golf, was a delightful surprise, offering a touch of whimsy amidst the historical backdrop. It was a joy to see families, much like my own in years past, creating memories in this charming slice of Americana.

A Taste of Bluegrass and BBQ

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Playhouse Dinner Theatre for the much-anticipated Bluegrass BBQ Bash. The aroma of smoked meats wafted through the air, mingling with the lively strains of bluegrass music. Goldwing Express took the stage, their melodies weaving a tapestry of sound that was both familiar and heartwarming.

The dinner, while flavorful, was modest in portion. It reminded me of the simple meals we used to enjoy on the road, where the company and the setting often outshone the food itself. While some might find the BBQ bash not quite worth the price, for me, it was the experience—the music, the laughter, the shared stories—that truly mattered. It was a reminder of the countless roadside diners and BBQ joints we’ve visited, where the food was secondary to the camaraderie and the joy of the journey.

The Drama Unfolds

As twilight descended, we settled in for the outdoor drama, “The Shepherd of the Hills.” The stage, sprawling and alive with over 90 performers, was a spectacle to behold. Horses, sheep, and even mules added to the authenticity of the reenactment, bringing the story of the Ozarks to life in vivid detail.

Though the plot was unfamiliar to us at first, the beauty of the performance lay in its ability to transport us to another time and place. The actors, with their earnest portrayals, captured the essence of a community bound by love, mystery, and moral lessons that resonate even today. As the evening unfolded, the cool breeze and the starlit sky provided the perfect backdrop for this timeless tale.

Reflecting on the experience, I realized that while the BBQ might not have been the highlight, the journey itself—the exploration of history, the music, the drama—was worth every moment. It was a reminder of why we travel, why we seek out these pockets of history and culture, and why the open road continues to call us back, time and again.