It all began in 1950 when founders Hugo and Mary Herschend acquired a lease on Marvel Cave near Branson, MO. A decade later, as the popularity of the cave grew, so did the lines. In order to entertain cave guests during their wait, the widowed Mary, along with a staff of 17, opened a small 1880s-themed village on the cave's grounds. Silver Dollar City became a huge success - forming the foundation of Herschend Family Entertainment. Today, HFE owns, operates and manages 26 themed entertainment properties across ten states.
