About a century ago, George Sims envisioned transforming New Port Richey into a rival of Hollywood. He purchased 30,000 acres of land and began developing the area with golf courses and movie studios in mind. Sims successfully attracted wealthy entertainers and athletes to the city during the early 1920s. Famous actor Thomas Meighan and legendary golfer Gene Sarazen both built homes there. A theater named after Meighan opened in 1926, followed by The Hacienda Hotel and a golf course in subsequent years. Historians believe the Great Depression of 1929 ultimately destroyed this ambitious vision for the city. Although some buildings like the theater and hotel still stand today, no major studio ever filmed there. The dream of making New Port Richey Hollywood’s eastern counterpart was never revived after World War II.
New Port Richey Once Aimed to Be Hollywood of the East Before Depression Ended Dream
