Kanab
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Kanab, city, seat (1864) of Kane county, southwestern Utah, U.S., on Kanab Creek, at the foot of Vermilion Cliffs, just north of the Arizona line. Settlement was first made in 1864 around Fort Kanab (from a Paiute Indian word meaning “willow”) but was abandoned because of Indian attacks.
The area is rich in history. The land around Kanab, Utah, is characterized by its striking natural beauty and geological diversity, making it a captivating area with significant historical and cultural importance. The terrain includes a mix of canyons, plateaus, rivers, and unique rock formations that have shaped the way people have interacted with the region for thousands of years. The Southern Paiute people were the original inhabitants of the Kanab area, and their connection to the land is deeply rooted in their culture and traditions. They utilized the diverse landscape for hunting, gathering, and agriculture, adapting to the natural resources available in different seasons. Many place names in the area, including "Kanab," reflect their influence. When Mormon pioneers settled in the area in the mid-19th century, they faced the challenge of making the arid land arable. They built irrigation systems to divert water from the Kanab Creek and other sources to their fields. This ingenuity allowed them to establish a sustainable agricultural community despite the harsh conditions.
Kanab, Utah, often referred to as "Little Hollywood," has been a popular filming location for many movies and television shows due to its stunning natural landscapes. Here is a list of notable films made in and around Kanab: Classic Westerns and Early Films
Deadwood Coach (1924) - Lost Silent Film
The first major film shot in Kanab, marking the beginning of the town's long association with Hollywood.
Stagecoach (1939)
Directed by John Ford and starring John Wayne, this iconic Western used Kanab's landscapes to portray the rugged terrain of the American West.
The Lone Ranger (1938-1957)
The long-running TV series and its associated films frequently utilized Kanab's dramatic scenery.
My Darling Clementine (1946)
Another John Ford classic, this film starred Henry Fonda and was partly shot in the Kanab area.
Westward the Women (1951)
Directed by William A. Wellman, this film depicted the journey of a group of women traveling to California and was filmed in Kanab.
The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, this Western filmed several scenes in and around Kanab.
Television Series
Gunsmoke (1955-1975)
This iconic Western TV series shot numerous episodes in Kanab, taking advantage of its authentic Western backdrop.
The Apple Dumpling Gang (1975)
A comedy Western produced by Disney, featuring scenes shot in the Kanab area.
Daniel Boone (1964-1970)
The TV series, set in the American frontier, filmed many outdoor scenes in Kanab to capture the untamed wilderness.
Modern Films and Series
Planet of the Apes (1968)
Some scenes from this science fiction classic were filmed in the unique landscapes around Kanab.
Maverick (1994)
Starring Mel Gibson and Jodie Foster, this Western comedy used Kanab's picturesque settings for several scenes.
The Outlaw Trail: The Treasure of Butch Cassidy (2006)
This adventure film utilized the rugged terrain around Kanab to tell its story of treasure hunting and outlaws.
John Carter (2012)
This science fiction film, based on the Barsoom series by Edgar Rice Burroughs, filmed some of its Martian landscapes in the Kanab area.
Other Notable Productions
The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
This epic film about the life of Jesus Christ filmed scenes in the canyons and deserts around Kanab, which doubled for the Holy Land.
One Little Indian (1973)
A Disney film starring James Garner, filmed partly in Kanab.
The Electric Horseman (1979)
Starring Robert Redford and Jane Fonda, this film used Kanab's landscapes for several key scenes.
In Kanab, there is a museum that documents the movies filmed in the area. For more information, here is a link to their website:
https://www.littlehollywoodmuseum.org/
