Where was Centennial filmed?
1978
City Locations
La Junta, Central City, CO; Richmond, KY; Brackettville, TX (USA)
Location Types
Ranch, Mansion, Riverside, Museum
Location Styles
Mountain Huts, Dated/’50s-’60s-’70s, Building Dated/Retro, Rustic
About Centennial
Step back in time with the Centennial series, a riveting television event that aired from 1978 to 1979. Masterfully directed by John Wilder, the series boasts an all-star cast, including standout performances from Barbara Carrera, Michael Ansara, Richard Chamberlain, and Robert Conrad. These are just some accomplished actors who brought to life the enduring story of Centennial, Colorado.
Adapted from the 1974 novel of the same name by esteemed author James A. Michener, the Centennial series is an epic 12-episode narrative that spins the fictional history of Centennial across several generations, tracing its journey from 1795 to the 1970s. With flair and finesse, the series delves into the town's development and the lives of its residents. Every episode highlights crucial events and conflicts that shaped the town's history, offering viewers a rich and fascinating exploration of the American West.
The Centennial series, with its compelling storytelling and captivating performances, did not go unnoticed in the sphere of accolades. Its exceptional narrative and performances earned it nominations for several prestigious awards. Considered a standout, Richard Chamberlain received a Best Actor Golden Globe nomination, while the series received a nomination for the Best Television Series Golden Globe Drama in 1979.
A milestone in television history, the Centennial series presents a multi-generational saga that absorbs and entertains. Its exemplary cast direction and gripping narrative make for an unforgettable viewing experience.
Centennial Locations
Making the Centennial Series (1978-1979) was a grand endeavor, utilizing picturesque locations across several parts of the United States. Principal photography occurred in 1978, with Colorado as a significant backdrop. The captivating state landscapes, including Greeley, Denver, Pawnee National Grasslands, Central City, Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site, and the Rocky Mountain National Park, were prominently featured in the series.
The Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming provided the backdrop for scenes representing the Mountain Men era. Augusta, Kentucky, was chosen to represent St. Louis in the late 18th and early 19th century, while the White Hall State Historic Site in Richmond, Kentucky, served as the Bockweiss mansion. Meanwhile, Coshocton, Ohio, was transformed into the Zendt farm and Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
One of the key locations in the series is the Highlands Ranch Mansion in Highlands Ranch, near the actual town of Centennial, Colorado. This site, used for the Venneford Ranch house, is now surrounded by residential developments, including Venneford Ranch Road.
Despite a tragic incident on November 27, 1978, when actor Richard Kelton died due to accidental carbon monoxide asphyxiation from a faulty heater in his trailer, the production of the miniseries continued. Universal Studios, the producer of Centennial, was fined $720 for failing to provide a proper ventilation system for the trailer.
A trip to these filming locations would be worthwhile for fans of the series and those interested in film history. These sites offer not only a chance to step into the world of Centennial but also an opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, historic sites, and cultural landmarks across the United States.
St. Louis in the late 18th century scene in Centennial
Augusta, Kentucky 41002, USA
The "Only the Rocks Live Forever" episode takes us back to 1796 in St. Louis. The central character, Pasquinel (Robert Conrad), returns to St. Louis, injured and robbed of two years of pelts.
The scenes meant to depict St. Louis during the late 18th and early 19th century came to life in Augusta, Kentucky. This quaint historic town was established in 1736 and named in honor of Princess Augusta of Saxe-Gotha. The Augusta Downtown Historic District, recognized in the National Register of Historic Places since 2004, covers a significant portion of downtown Augusta along with its area that dates back to the pre-Civil War era. Its well-conserved architecture and enduring allure made it a fitting substitute for St. Louis during the historical period.
Augusta is along the Ohio River and accessible via US Route 52 from Cincinnati or Route 68 from Lexington. Once there, you can explore the Augusta Downtown, which houses several buildings dating to the pre-Civil War era. This charming district offers a glimpse into the past and is a testament to the region's rich history.
The Bockweiss mansion scenes in Centennial
White Hall Historic Site, 500 White Hall Shrine Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, USA
The narrative continues in the first episode with the scene where Pasquinel (Robert Conrad), a mountain man, is introduced to Herman Bockweiss (Raymond Burr), a Bavarian silversmith, by a surgeon. They converse about finance, setting the stage for their future interactions. By 1800, Pasquinel had returned to St. Louis and married Lise Bockweiss (Sally Kellerman), Herman's daughter.
The filming location for these scenes, especially those depicting the Bockweiss mansion, was the White Hall State Historic Site in Richmond, Kentucky. This grand estate was originally constructed in 1799 by Green Clay, a renowned businessman, surveyor, and slave owner.
The mansion subsequently became the property of his son, Cassius Marcellus Clay, who was recognized for his pro-emancipation stance and for serving as the U.S. Minister to Russia. His daughters were also significantly involved in the Women's Suffrage Movement. The White Hall Historic Site is a museum and event venue, welcoming numerous visitors annually through its historical tours, teas, holiday activities, and more.
Getting to this historic site from Louisville is a breeze. Take W Jefferson St in the city center and hop onto I-64 E. The drive should take approximately an hour and a half. Unfortunately, public transportation isn't an option for this journey.
The Zendt farm scenes in Centennial
Coshocton, Ohio 43812, USA
"The Wagon and the Elephant" episode first represents the character Levi Zendt (Gregory Harrison). Hailing from a Mennonite family in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, Zendt's life takes a dramatic turn in 1845 when he is falsely accused of attempted rape and consequently shunned by his community. Determined to start anew, he journeys to the Oregon Country, purchasing an old covered wagon for his travels.
Coshocton, Ohio, provided the backdrop for these scenes, depicting the Zendt farm and the broader Lancaster County area. This city is known for being the home of the most prominent American flag manufacturer. It hosts diverse industries, producing everything from ductile pipe and cardboard to castings and bacon. Coshocton has a rich history, having been the birthplace of latex-coated gloves, the Specialty Advertising Industry, Pope Gosser China, the March of Dimes, and others.
Besides housing the historic Roscoe Village from the Canal era, Coshocton has an impressive mix of industrial strength, unique shopping venues, abundant recreational activities, and a vibrant arts scene. The nearest major city with airport facilities is Columbus. A drive there via OH-16 E would take roughly an hour. However, it's important to note that this area does not offer public transportation services.
The mountain men era scene in Centennial
Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA
One memorable scene unfolds in "The Wagon and the Elephant" episode. In this episode, the characters join a wagon train heading along the Oregon Trail under the guidance of Sam Purchas (Donald Pleasence), a seasoned mountain man. This journey leads Zendt (Gregory Harrison) to part ways with his cherished horses. Traveling across the Great Plains, Zendt learns about "the elephant," and the group encounters the Pasquinel brothers. After a stop at Fort John, where they meet the McKeag family running the general store, the Zendts continue their journey toward the Rocky Mountains.
This scene and numerous others depicting the mountain men era in the series came to life at the awe-inspiring Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This splendid location includes the Teton mountain range, the majestic Grand Teton peak, 4000 meters high, and the Jackson Hole scenic valley. The park provides an authentic and stunning backdrop for the series, enhancing its historical narrative with real-world landscapes that evoke the rugged beauty of the American West in the 19th century.
Grand Teton National Park is easily accessible and offers plenty of activities for visitors. During the summer, it's a popular destination for hiking, mountaineering, backcountry camping, and fishing. Salt Lake City is easily reachable by car via I-15 N, with a travel time of approximately 4 hours.
The Venneford Ranch house scene in Centennial
Highlands Ranch Mansion, 9950 E Gateway Dr, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126, USA
The series left a lasting impression on viewers, particularly with its 'Crime' episode. One of the most iconic scenes from this episode features Charlotte Seccombe (Lynn Redgrave), who, after being widowed, makes a brief trip to London. However, she soon returns to Venneford Ranch upon inheriting a majority interest from her uncle, Lord Venneford (Alan Napier). This return sparks a romance with Lloyd (William Atherton), adding a layer of intrigue and emotion to the narrative.
The Highlands Ranch Mansion in Highlands Ranch, near Centennial, Colorado, was the setting for this scene, and others were set at the Venneford Ranch. Over the years, the surrounding property has been developed for housing, with one of the streets in the development named Venneford Ranch Road, in homage to the series.
The Highlands Ranch Mansion has a storied history, having served as home to several of Denver's more distinguished families, including cattle barons, oil magnates, well-known socialites, and influential political and business leaders who have shaped Colorado's history. The mansion also offers elegant indoor and outdoor settings for special events and conducts tours for visitors.
If you're planning to visit the Highlands Ranch Mansion from Denver, you can take a 30-minute drive via US-85 S/S Santa Fe Dr. Alternatively, public transportation is an option. You can take a bus with a transfer at Highlands Ranch, extending the journey to approximately 2 hours.
Conclusion
The Centennial series (1978-1979) is an ambitious television miniseries that beautifully captures the essence of James Michener's best-selling historical novel. Though not always perfectly cast, the performances are engaging and contribute to the series' charm. For instance, Nicaraguan actress Barbara Carrera plays 'Clay Basket,' a Native American character, while Richard Chamberlain delivers a memorable performance as a Scot despite his questionable Scottish accent. The series does an impressive job of representing different cultures and periods, even if it sometimes leans on non-traditional casting choices.
The production team chose the Centennial filming locations with care to represent different eras and regions. Principal filming occurred in 1978 in multiple locations across the United States, with Colorado as a critical backdrop. The series also used the grandeur of the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, the historic charm of Augusta and Richmond in Kentucky, and other unique locations to bring the story to life.
In terms of its contribution to the movie industry, the Centennial series stands as a testament to the power of television to adapt complex, sprawling novels into engaging visual narratives. Its success paved the way for future miniseries based on popular novels.
The Centennial series is a rich tapestry of stories, characters, and history. Despite casting quirks, it's an engaging bit of television that captures the spirit of the West and its history. If you're an enthusiast of historical narratives, an admirer of Michener's literary creations, or a lover of quality television, the Centennial series is a must-watch.