Westward Ho The Wagons 

Last Updated on: June 26th, 2024

Westward Ho The Wagons (1956 Movie)

“Westward Ho, the Wagons!” is a 1956 Disney adventure film directed by William Beaudine. Set in the 1840s during the westward expansion of the United States, the movie follows a group of pioneers on their journey along the Oregon Trail.

The story centers around a wagon train led by a seasoned scout named James Stephen (played by Fess Parker). The pioneers face various challenges, including encounters with Native American tribes, rough terrain, and adverse weather conditions. As they progress through their arduous journey, they learn the importance of unity, cooperation, and perseverance.

Amid the trials and tribulations, the group befriends a Shoshone Indian boy named Little Thunder (played by Kevin Corcoran), who joins them in their adventure. The film portrays themes of friendship, understanding, and mutual respect between different cultures.

“Westward Ho, the Wagons!” presents a family-friendly and historically inspired tale that captures the spirit of America’s westward expansion. While the movie is a fictional story, it reflects the challenges and triumphs faced by pioneers during this significant period in American history.

The film was well-received upon its release and remains a classic Disney adventure with its heartwarming portrayal of the pioneer spirit and the enduring human quest for a better life on the frontier.



Additional Details

  • Movie Studio:
  • Year Released:
  • Type of Movie: Live-Action
  • Box Office: $2.75 million
  • IMDB Link

Cast

  • Fess Parker: John ‘Doc’ Grayson
  • Kathleen Crowley: Laura Thompson
  • Jeff York: Hank Breckenridge
  • David Stollery: Dan Thompson
  • Sebastian Cabot: Bissonette
  • George Reeves: James Stephen
  • Doreen Tracey: Bobo Stephen
  • Barbara Woodell: Mrs. Stephen
  • John War Eagle: Wolf’s Brother
  • Cubby O’Brien: Jerry Stephen
  • Tommy Cole: Jim Stephen
  • Leslie Bradley: Spencer Armitage
  • Morgan Woodward: Obie Foster
  • Iron Eyes Cody: Many Stars
  • Anthony Numkena: Little Thunder
  • Karen Pendleton: Myra Thompson
  • Jane Liddell: Ruth Benjamin
  • Jon Locke: Ed Benjamin

Crew

  • Director: William Beaudine
  • Producer: Bill Walsh
  • Writer: Tom Blackburn
  • Music: George Bruns



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About the Author

Craig Smith
I am founder and editor of DisneyNews.us. My passion for all things Disney goes pretty far back to my first trip to Walt Disney World in the mid-80's. I have since returned to the magical place more than 20 times. I started this site when I came to the realization that I spent a significant portion of my day reading articles about Disney and watching Disney content with my 8-year old, so it made sense that I would start sharing some of what I read and see and building a little community around it. Other interests include 80's nostalgia, vintage toys, video games, LEGO, Star Wars and tech gadgets. Other site isDMR.