Skywalker Ranch

Skywalker Ranch is the name of the well-disguised residence of film director and producer George Lucas in secluded but open country near Nicasio, California. Curiously it is located just off Lucas Valley Road; there is no known relation between Lucas and the road's name. The Ranch and production facilities are not open to the public. Die-hard fans present occasional problems to perimeter security. When President Ronald Reagan requested a tour of Skywalker Ranch, shortly after Lucasfilm lost a court battle to have the US government refrain from calling the Strategic Defense Initiative, "Star Wars," a visit just couldn't be arranged.

Related Topics:
Director - Producer - George Lucas - Nicasio, California - Lucas Valley Road - Ronald Reagan - Strategic Defense Initiative

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Assembled parcel by parcel, Skywalker Ranch consists of over 4,700 acres (19 km²) and has cost Lucas up to 100 million dollars, according to a Wall Street Journal feature. Over the objections of neighboring ranchers that Skywalker Ranch was polluting the environment, Lucasfilm acquired four neighboring ranches adding more than 3,000 acres (12 km²) to the Skywalker Ranch. All but 15 acres (60,000 m²) remain undeveloped.

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The Ranch contains a rambling ranch house for George Lucas and his family, vineyards, and parking (concealed underground to preserve the natural landscape). It is also the location of Skywalker Sound. The main house has a large library under a stained-glass dome.

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A majority of the props used in the Star Wars movies are displayed in the main house.

Related Topics:
Props - Star Wars - Movie

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