City’s Official Podcast Takes Viewers Inside One of Santa Clarita’s Most Famous Landmarks
The City of Santa Clarita is excited to announce the release of a new episode of Santa Clarita Voices, the City’s official podcast, filmed on location at the William S. Hart Mansion. In this video-focused episode, Santa Clarita City Librarian Gina Roberson takes City Manager Ken Striplin on an exclusive tour through the historic home of silent film star and Western icon, William S. Hart.
Completed around 1927, the approximately 10,000-square-foot Spanish Revival mansion features 22 rooms filled with Hart’s furnishings, artwork, clothing, books, film memorabilia and personal belongings. As Roberson guides Striplin through the home, viewers will discover unique details that offer a glimpse into Hart’s life, from the dining room windows where his horses were known to poke their heads inside, to a hidden projector Hart used to screen silent films for his guests.
The tour also introduces viewers to some of the Museum’s most memorable artifacts and stories. Highlights include Hart’s famous fur chaps, photographs from a visit by Amelia Earhart, items belonging to his son, William S. Hart Jr. and “Skippy,” the Kodiak bear rug carefully preserved by Museum staff. Viewers will also learn about Hart’s beloved Great Danes, which eventually took over his original bedroom, and his reported fondness for enjoying See’s chocolates each night.
Throughout the episode, Roberson explains the specialized work required to care for the Museum’s collection, including balancing light exposure and the visitor experience with the long-term preservation of delicate textiles, ceramics, woodwork and other century-old artifacts. The episode also highlights the work City staff have completed since assuming management of the property and the importance of preserving the Museum for future generations.
Before his death, Hart left his home, property and belongings to the public, explaining that moviegoers had spent their nickels and dimes watching his films. In keeping with his wishes, admission to the Museum remains free, giving residents and visitors the opportunity to experience his remarkable home and collection firsthand.
Santa Clarita Voices features conversations with City leaders, staff and community members, offering an inside look at the projects, places and stories that shape Santa Clarita. Episodes are available with video on Spotify and the City’s YouTube channel, as well as audio on Apple Podcasts. Be sure to subscribe so you can be notified when a new episode is released!
To learn more about the William S. Hart Museum and plan a visit, go to HartPark.SantaClarita.gov/Hart-Museum.
