Member-only story
How TV’s The Waltons’ TV Home Was Destroyed By A Former Arson Investigator Turned Arsonist
The main set of a beloved American television classic was destroyed in a shocking manner
The Waltons remain one of the most beloved shows in television history. The story of the large rural Virginia family making their way through the Great Depression was based on the life of author Earl Hamner and attracted many fans during the nine seasons it ran. Unfortunately, not everyone held the family drama in high esteem, as the beloved home that was the setting for most episodes was destroyed by a former chief arson investigator turned arsonist who set it on fire in his attempts to become a well-known writer.
Few shows resonated with tv viewers quite like The Waltons. The wholesome family drama was a bit familiar to many, as every week the family or individual members persevered through trying situations. Every episode closed with the family wishing each other a good night as they settled into bed.
In addition to numerous ratings, the show drew huge viewership, even maintaining popularity when it went into syndication, which has continued to the present time. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem that everyone was a fan.