California in general, and Sonoma in particular, is becoming known for celebrity vineyards. It may be that none are more justifiably celebrated than MacMurray Ranch, the one-time home of movie star Fred MacMurray and family.
MacMurray is best known to a certain generation as the father figure in the comic TV series “My Three Sons.” That sprang out of his success as the beloved character actor at the heart of Disney’s first three live action, full-length comedies, including the 1961 fantasy “The Absent Minded Professor,” in which Flubber was invented.
But IMDB says of him, “no other actor working in the 1940s and 50s was able to score so supremely whenever cast against type” – such as the coldly philandering boss in “The Apartment” or the insurance salesman taken for a ride in “Double Indemnity.”
When he and his wife June Haver (also an actor) moved to Sonoma County in the early 1950s, it was to the Twin Valley Ranch, where award-winning cattle were raised. They raised their adopted twins there, and had what sounds like an idyllic Sonoma County family life.
The ranch was sold in 1996, five years after MacMurray’s death, to Gallo Wines, in large part to preserve its agricultural use. The winery landscaped the property for grapes and planted extensive vineyards; the MacMurray Ranch Russian River Pinot Noir has been a classic of the type for years.
Last year Healdsburg Museum Curator Holly Hoods asked Katherine MacMurray, still resident on the property, if she would consider collaborating with the Museum on an exhibit about her parents and the ranch. “Boy, would I!” exclaimed Kate.
The result opens at the Healdsburg Museum today, "The Movie Stars Next Door: Fred MacMurray, June Haver and the MacMurray Ranch." The collection includes rare photos, posters and scripts from the screen careers of both Fred and June, as well as insight into their private lives. Never before seen photos, artifacts and memorabilia from Kate MacMurray will be included in the exhibition.
The exhibition, sponsored by the Fred and June MacMurray Foundation, highlights some of Fred’s hobbies as well, with artwork and hunting and fishing gear. Through such mementos and artifacts, visitors will also get a glimpse of life on Twin Valley Ranch.
“This is the first time Mom and Dad have been honored both personally and professionally in an exhibit of this nature,” said Kate. “Thank you, Holly Hoods!”
The exhibit, “The Movie Stars Next Door,” opens today May 15 at the Healdsburg Museum and Historical Society, and runs through July 21. There is a reception tonight at the Museum at 5:30. Plan your visit to the Museum during their regular hours Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Healdsburg Museum & Historical Society is located at 221 Matheson St. Admission is always free; donations are always welcome.
