Hollywood History Meets the Old West: Bob Kisthart Will Retire from Bent’s Old Fort After 27 Years

Description: Explore the Hollywood legacy of Bent’s Old Fort and celebrate Bob Kisthart’s 27-year career as a historical interpreter and filmmaker ahead of his retirement and Santa Fe Trail Day appearance. Read the Full Story...

The Hollywood Legacy of Bent’s Old Fort

After twenty-seven years of serving as a historical interpreter at Bent’s Old Fort, Bob Kisthart is retiring at the end of April. He has split his time with The National Park Service between Bent’s Fort and Yellowstone, spending summers up north and winter months in La Junta. Bob is one of those rare folks who seems to be more comfortable with the ways of the old west than with much of what is our modern day. For those who seek an authentic taste of times past, then a visit with Bob at Bent’s Fort will almost surely satisfy your desire.

Bent’s Fort has served as a popular venue for the film-making industry since its rebirth in 1976, with twenty-five major productions having been made at the historic site. Some of the most significant of these include “Centennial,” “The Chisholms,” “Dream West,” and “How the West Was Won” starring James Arness. The first attention to Bent’s Fort by Hollywood appears to have come in 1940 when Republic Pictures made “The Ranger & the Lady,” with Roy Rogers and Gabby Hayes, which was based on a story that takes place at the Fort.

Interestingly, Bob Kisthart has also had a connection to the movie industry over the years. Since the late 1990’s, he has had a role in at least fifteen productions in a variety of ways, most recently making appearances in “Flint,” a soon-to-be-released adaptation of the Louis L’Amour novel. In addition, he has worked as director, producer and actor in a number of documentaries, short films and other projects, most of which have been filmed at Bent’s Old Fort.

While attending high school in Covina, California, Bob was bitten by the movie-making bug and his fascination with film continues to this day. As a young man his adventures led him to a visit at John Wayne’s home, attending the Academy Awards, and sharing birthday cake with Mel Brooks. He also spent time as a prop-maker and as a member of special effects crews in Hollywood.

Bob is expected to be in Las Animas for Santa Fe Trail Day on April 24th, to take part in the parade and the celebration of Bent’s Old Fort and the Santa Fe Trail.

A rare treat is in store for those who are able to attend; please join the gathering if you can!

Watch Our Videos Featuring Bob Kisthart:

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