It’s been 45 years since Leatherface first terrorized teens in the 1974 cult classic “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Believed by many to be the number one horror film of all time, much of the action takes place just off scene, encouraging the imagination of the viewer to fill in the blanks. What many don’t know is that most of the film was shot in Bastrop County, the Film Hospitality Capital of Texas.
The haunting story follows two siblings and their three friends as they journey to visit their grandfather’s grave in Texas, but end up falling victim to a family of cannibalistic psychopaths, including Leatherface.
Shooting on location, cast and crew faced the 100 degree temperatures of a hot Texas summer, plus exposure to rotting meat and food during the 27 hours of shooting. The cast and crew were miserable, but it added authenticity to the acting. In fact, several actors were injured while filming, and the director chose to keep those moments in the film. The end result of the director’s vision (and these mishaps), “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” would become known as one of the all-time best films of its genre, spurring on multiple reboots.
You can visit the original film site on Highway 304 at The Gas Station, the same fateful stop of the kids in the film. The building has been renovated as a local barbecue joint and gift shop with lots of movie memorabilia, but the character of the old gas station remains intact. The owner has added replica vehicles and other relics to create an authentic movie set as you drive up.
The Gas Station recently began providing overnight stays to anyone brave enough. Behind the restaurant and gift shop are four cabins, showers and a covered community outdoor dining area prepared for guests. Each cabin also has a DVD player and the manager will lend you horror titles to watch from your bed.
Come for dinner or stay in their cabins for all-night fright! The Gas Station is a definite must for those who love to be scared.
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