Do you remember a time when television transported us to the rugged landscapes of the American West, where love and adventure intertwined? "Here Come the Brides" was more than just a show; it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the hearts of a generation, and its legacy continues to intrigue audiences today. The series, which graced the ABC television network from September 25, 1968, to April 3, 1970, remains a beloved classic, a testament to the enduring appeal of stories about community, courtship, and the pioneering spirit.

At its heart, "Here Come the Brides" was a comedy western, a genre blend that offered both laughter and a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history. The show was loosely inspired by the real-life efforts of Asa Mercer in the 1860s. Mercer, recognizing the severe gender imbalance in the burgeoning city of Seattle, embarked on a mission to bring marriageable women from the East Coast. These women, often referred to as the "Mercer Girls," sought new opportunities and lives in the West, forever changing the social fabric of Seattle. In the television series, the narrative focused on the Bolt brothers, owners of a sawmill, who devised a similar plan to entice 100 women to Seattle from New Bedford, Massachusetts. Their motivation? To keep their logging employees content and prevent them from abandoning their jobs. The series followed the adventures and misadventures of these transplanted women as they navigated the challenges and romances of a new life in the West.

Category	Information
Show Title	Here Come the Brides
Genre	Comedy Western
Network	ABC Television Network
Air Dates	September 25, 1968 April 3, 1970
Inspiration	Asa Mercer's "Mercer Girls"
Premise	The Bolt brothers bring 100 women to Seattle as potential brides to retain their logging crew.
Notable Cast Members	Robert Brown, Bobby Sherman, David Soul, Bridget Hanley, Susan Tolsky
External Link	TV Guide - Here Come the Brides Cast

While "Here Come the Brides" offered a lighthearted take on historical events, it also touched on themes of social change and the challenges faced by women in the 19th century. One memorable plotline saw the brides taking a stand against the ongoing conflicts between the loggers and hired men of local landowners, reminiscent of the ancient Greek play "Lysistrata." In this episode, the women declared they would withhold affection from their beaus until they promised to cease their fighting, highlighting the power dynamics and social influence that women could wield, even in a male-dominated society. Despite its initial popularity, "Here Come the Brides" eventually saw a decline in viewership, leading to its cancellation after two seasons. However, its impact on television and its enduring appeal have cemented its place in television history.

The series boasted a talented cast that contributed to its success. Robert Brown played the role of Jason Bolt, the eldest of the Bolt brothers and a determined leader. Bobby Sherman, a teen idol of the era, portrayed Jeremy Bolt, the youngest brother and a shy logger. David Soul, later known for his role in "Starsky & Hutch," played Joshua Bolt, the middle brother and a charismatic figure. Bridget Hanley starred as Candy Pruitt, one of the central female characters and a love interest in the series. Susan Tolsky added comedic flair to the show with her portrayal of Biddie Clopp.

The actors' careers took various paths after "Here Come the Brides." Bobby Sherman, already a popular singer, continued his music career and later transitioned into working as a paramedic. David Soul achieved greater fame with "Starsky & Hutch" and continued to act in film and television. Bridget Hanley made guest appearances in other television shows, including "Harper Valley P.T.A." Robert Brown continued acting in television and film, while Susan Tolsky remained a familiar face in comedy, appearing in numerous television shows and movies. The camaraderie among the cast was evident both on and off-screen. Sadly, Bridget Hanley passed away at the age of 80, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances. Bobby Sherman is now the last surviving member of the main cast, carrying the torch for the beloved series.

Bobby Sherman's journey to "Here Come the Brides" was a blend of talent and opportunity. Prior to landing the role of Jeremy Bolt, Sherman had already established himself in the entertainment industry. He was signed with an agent and secured a spot on the ABC show "Shindig!" as a regular cast member and house singer. This exposure allowed him to showcase his musical abilities and connect with a young audience. He released several records and became a familiar face in teen magazines, solidifying his status as a teen idol. In 1968, his career took a significant turn when he was cast in "Here Come the Brides." His portrayal of Jeremy Bolt, the shy logger, resonated with viewers, and he became an integral part of the show's success. His prior experience in music and television prepared him well for the demands of the series, and he quickly became a fan favorite.

The series also had its share of behind-the-scenes connections. Patti Carnell, Bobby Sherman's former wife, later married David Soul, who played Sherman's brother on "Here Come the Brides." This personal connection added an interesting dynamic to the cast and highlighted the close-knit nature of the entertainment industry. Though their relationship eventually ended in separation, the shared experience of working on "Here Come the Brides" remained a part of their history.

Susan Tolsky, born in Houston, Texas, on April 6, 1943, brought her comedic talents to "Here Come the Brides." The younger of two daughters, she was raised in Houston, where her parents, Abe and Sarah, owned and operated a dress shop. Tolsky's passion for acting began in high school, and she initially pursued nursing at the University of Texas at Austin before switching her major to theater. This decision paved the way for her career in entertainment. Tolsky's comedic timing and memorable performances made her a beloved character actress in television and film. Her role in "Here Come the Brides" was just one of many in a career that spanned decades.

The historical context of "Here Come the Brides" is also worth noting. Asa Mercer, the real-life inspiration for the series, moved to Seattle in the 1860s to join his brother, who was working as a judge. Mercer quickly recognized the lack of women in the city, a problem exacerbated by the American Civil War, which had left many towns short of men. His efforts to bring women to Seattle were driven by a desire to create a more balanced and civilized society. While the television series took liberties with the historical facts, it captured the essence of Mercer's mission and the challenges faced by the women who ventured west in search of new lives. The DVD release of "Here Come the Brides: The Complete First Season" by Sony offered fans a chance to relive the early days of the series, complete with its jaunty theme tune and engaging storylines. For baby boomers, it was a trip down memory lane, and for younger generations, it was an introduction to a classic television show.

"Here Come the Brides" remains a significant part of television history, celebrated for its unique blend of comedy, western adventure, and historical inspiration. The cast, including Robert Brown, Bobby Sherman, David Soul, Bridget Hanley, and Susan Tolsky, brought the characters to life with their talent and dedication. While the show's run was relatively short, its impact on popular culture endures, reminding us of a time when television offered a mix of entertainment and a glimpse into the past. Organizations like Shout! Factory continue to honor the legacy of classic TV series by lovingly releasing and reviving them for new audiences. The series narrative, though fictionalized, shed light on the realities of life in the American West and the crucial role women played in shaping the region's identity. The stories of the Mercer Girls and the Bolt brothers continue to resonate, inspiring new interpretations and adaptations for modern audiences. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, "Here Come the Brides" offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era, filled with laughter, romance, and the pioneering spirit of the American West.

Bridget Hanley Dead 'Here Come The Brides', 'Harper Valley PTA' Regular Was 80

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Here Come the Brides Full Cast & Crew TV Guide

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Here Come The Brides debuts on ABC on September 25, 1968. HistoryLink

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