Bonanza Timeline ( Real )

tv_premiere
September 12, 1959

Debut of Bonanza

Bonanza premiered on NBC, marking the beginning of one of the longest-running and most popular Western television series.

casting
September 12, 1959

Introduction of Pernell Roberts as Adam Cartwright

Pernell Roberts began portraying Adam Cartwright, the eldest Cartwright son, a key character in the series.

casting
1967

Addition of David Canary as Candy Canaday

David Canary joined the cast as Candy Canaday, the ranch hand, adding to the dynamic at the Ponderosa.

cast_departure
1965

Departure of Pernell Roberts

Pernell Roberts left the show after expressing dissatisfaction with the show’s direction, marking a significant change in the cast.

actor_death
May 13, 1972

Death of Dan Blocker

Dan Blocker, who played Hoss Cartwright, passed away due to a pulmonary embolism, leading to major changes in the show's direction.

series_finale
January 16, 1973

Conclusion of Bonanza series

Bonanza aired its final episode after 14 seasons and over 430 episodes, concluding its long and successful run.

Bonanza Timeline ( Fictional )

family-origin
circa 1859

Founding of the Ponderosa Ranch

Ben Cartwright establishes the Ponderosa Ranch near Virginia City, Nevada, laying the foundation for his family and future legacy.

character-introduction
circa 1865

Hoss Cartwright Joins the Family

Eric 'Hoss' Cartwright, Ben's middle son, grows up working on the ranch, displaying his characteristic kindness and strength.

character-introduction
circa 1870

Little Joe Cartwright's Arrival

Joseph 'Little Joe' Cartwright, the youngest son, comes to live with his father and brothers at the Ponderosa.

character-development
circa 1872

Adam Cartwright Comes of Age

Adam, the eldest son, returns to the ranch after studying architecture, blending refinement with ranch life.

conflict
early 1870s

First Major Conflict: Ranchers vs. Outlaws

The Cartwright family confronts a gang threatening the safety of the Ponderosa and its neighboring settlers.

family-event
early 1870s

Ben Cartwright Marries Catherine

Ben marries Catherine, linking families and expanding the Cartwright lineage.

family-event
late 1870s

Loss of Ben Cartwright

Ben Cartwright passes away, leaving his sons to carry on the legacy of the Ponderosa Ranch.

conflict
late 1870s

The Cartwrights Defend the Ponderosa Against Land Grabbers

Facing a threat from land speculators, the Cartwright brothers unite to protect their family home.

legacy
1880

Legacy of the Ponderosa Continues

The Cartwright family perseveres, maintaining the Ponderosa Ranch through trials and triumphs.