The Official Online Edition of the Kollenborn Chronicles

Tom Kollenborn - is a noted author and historian of the Superstition Wilderness. He is also one of the leading experts on the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine legend and has written numerous articles and books about the Apache Trail and related history. Tom shares his experience with the public every week in the Apache Junction News with a publication called the "Kollenborn Chronicles".

This website is made possible because of Mr. Kollenborn's extensive research and dedication of preserving the history of the Superstition Wilderness and the historic Apache Trail of Arizona. Many of Tom's books can be purchased at attractions along the Apache Trail and at Amazon.com        Click here to review Tom's publications


Remembering Apacheland - By Tom Kollenborn © 02/01/2010

Flames leaped three hundred feet into the night sky near Kings Ranch about 6:30 p.m. on Valentine’s Day, 2004. Some twenty-five patrons in the Apacheland restaurant escaped the fire unharmed. Once again a devastating fire has become a part of this movie set’s history.

Apacheland burned to the ground for the second time in its forty-three year history. The fire left only a few buildings standing. Ironically the little white chapel used in Elvis Presley’s film “Charro” survived for the second time. Other buildings survived the fire at the west end of the movie set. The fire reportedly began somewhere near the restaurant in an electrical box. The Apache Junction Fire District was still putting out hot spots on Sunday morning.

The fire was devastating to owners Ed and Sue Birmingham and their employees. They have always prided themselves so much in preserving the movie history of the area. Apacheland was a special place to many people. It was a place were memories of our silver screen cowboy heroes came alive and reminded us of how important their impact was on our lives. Television series such as Wyatt Earp with Hugh O’Brien, Wanted Dead or Alive with Steve McQueen, Have Gun Will Travel with Richard Boone, The Virginian, Rawhide, and several episodes of Little House on the Prairie... [Click Here To Read More]


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