Celebrating the Wizard of Oz Star’s Connection to Our Desert Community
Frank Morgan, best known for his role as the Wizard in the iconic film The Wizard of Oz, had a meaningful connection to Borrego Springs. As the Broadway show Wicked surges in popularity, it’s the perfect time to shine a spotlight on the man behind the curtain—and his ties to our desert haven.
The Hollywood Star in Borrego Springs
Before he became the first ceremonial official of Borrego Springs, Frank Morgan was one of the most well-respected character actors in the silent film era of Hollywood. He starred in movies alongside legendary early film performers such as John Barrymore and Thomas "Tommy" Meighan.
Morgan’s career continued to flourish as films transitioned to sound, showcasing his remarkable range. In The Wizard of Oz (1939), Morgan played five roles: the Wizard, the carnival huckster "Professor Marvel," the Gatekeeper who initially refuses to let Dorothy and her friends into Emerald City, the carriage driver of the "horse of a different color," and the Palace Guard who denies Dorothy access to the Wizard. Morgan was cast in this legendary role on September 22, 1938, after W.C. Fields declined the part over contractual disputes.
During this era, Morgan was a sought-after actor for both comedic and serious roles. His performances in Saratoga (1937) and Casanova Brown (1944) revealed his comic talent, while his portrayals in The Shop Around the Corner (1940), The Mortal Storm (1940), and The Human Comedy (1943) highlighted his dramatic depth.
By the time he became involved in Borrego Springs, Morgan had firmly established himself as a Hollywood icon, known for both his versatility and charisma.
Morgan’s Borrego Connection
In the late 1930s, Morgan purchased land in the Borrego Valley, which would later become known as Morgan Manor. His connection to the community deepened in 1948, when he was named the first honorary mayor of Borrego Springs. This role reflected his love for the desert town and its residents. Morgan subdivided Morgan Manor shortly before his passing in 1950, further contributing to the area’s development as a serene getaway.
A Timeline of Frank Morgan’s Borrego Connection
- 1937: Frank Morgan purchased land in the Borrego Valley.
- Late 1940s: Morgan subdivided Morgan Manor, contributing to the area’s development as a resort community. This area, now called Sungold, is divided into sizeable lots for single-family homes.
- 1949: Morgan passed away unexpectedly on September 18 at the age of 59, leaving behind a legacy tied to Borrego Springs.
Hollywood Glamour and Hoberg’s Resort
Borrego Springs of the 1950s was a favorite hideaway for Hollywood stars seeking relaxation, including Marilyn Monroe, Bing Crosby, Leo Carrillo, Burgess Meredith, Gale Gordon (Borrego's honorary mayor for many years), Will Rogers, John Wayne, James Arness, and Frank Morgan.
The Palms at Indian Head, located on the site of the old Hoberg Resort, became a hub for this glittering crowd. Built in 1947, the resort featured amenities such as a landing strip, oversized Olympic pool, cocktail lounge, restaurant, bungalow retreats, horseback riding, shuffleboard, and tennis.
The community also boasted a rich artistic spirit. Lon Chaney Jr., of the famed theatrical family, started a community theater group in Borrego in 1950. The Little Theater Group performed for limited audiences at the old Hoberg Resort Hotel, hosting productions such as
"Years Ago" by Ruth Gordon. These performances continued with notable contributions from Paula "Polly" Baker, a well-known actress from New York City.
Why Frank Morgan’s Borrego Story Matters Today
Borrego Springs continues to thrive as a desert retreat for those seeking an escape from city life. Frank Morgan’s connection to the town underscores its long history as a destination for inspiration and rejuvenation. As Wicked brings his Wizard of Oz legacy back into the spotlight, it’s a wonderful opportunity to remind fans of his enduring ties to our community.
Visit Borrego Springs to Experience Its Magic
Whether you’re a Wizard of Oz fan, a Broadway enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique destination, Borrego Springs offers something special. From its breathtaking
Anza-Borrego State Park to its artistic community, you can explore the same inspiring landscapes that once captivated Frank Morgan.
And for almost every rain shower in Borrego Springs, you will see a rainbow or even multiple rainbows—and they can sometimes last the whole day.
Learn More About Borrego Springs
December 7, 2025
OLAX Invites You — Santa at the Circle Santa at the Circle brings families together for gifts, photos with Santa and the Grinch, and community cheer on Sunday, December 14 at Christmas Circle from 3pm-6pm in Borrego Springs. Santa at the Circle is one of Borrego Springs’ most heartwarming community celebrations, bringing families together each December for an afternoon of gifts, photos, and festive fun. Hosted by Organización de Latinx de Borrego Springs (OLAX), the event is designed for families of all ages to enjoy a joyful holiday gathering at Christmas Circle.
December 7, 2025
Ricardo Breceda’s New Sculptures Installed on Borrego Springs Road The community gathered on December 5 for the unveiling of Battle of the Desert, the newest addition to Borrego Springs’ iconic Sky Art by sculptor Ricardo Breceda. Installed at 4990 Borrego Springs Road, the pair of towering steel figures—a Greater Roadrunner and a Western Diamondback Rattlesnake—now join the region’s well-known collection of more than 130 Breceda sculptures that define the local landscape. Commissioned by Rams Hill and Borrego Community Builders, a Rams Hill initiative supporting community development and Borrego Community Homes, the installation highlights the wildlife and ecological relationships that shape the Anza-Borrego Desert. The roadrunner and rattlesnake are two of the desert’s most recognizable species, each playing a key role in rodent control and ecological balance. A permanent interpretive sign was also introduced during the event, explaining the meaning behind the sculptures and Breceda’s long-standing impact on desert art in Borrego Springs. Speakers included Rodney Bruce (Rams Hill), Wade Beane (Borrego Art Institute and Honorary Mayor of Borrego Springs), Gabriela Dow and Jennifer Sencion (Borrego Community Builders), Harry Turner (COO), and Ricardo Breceda, who spoke about the creativity and craftsmanship behind his work. The program acknowledged the collaborative planning behind the installation and the ongoing efforts to expand public art in the community. Following the unveiling, attendees were invited to a reception at Rams Hill. Breceda’s new roadrunner and rattlesnake join the larger Sky Art story—a regional landmark that continues to draw visitors, celebrate desert wildlife, and honor the artistic history shaped by the late philanthropist Dennis Avery’s original vision for large-scale, outdoor public sculpture in Borrego Springs.
December 6, 2025
The second community Shape Note Sing in Borrego Springs
December 1, 2025
Jeanne & Jan Are Back at The Mall Offering Light Repairs for the Community Every first Monday of the month, they set up in front of Tubs Laundromat and Community Valley Bank at The Mall, offering helpful light repairs such as mending, patches, buttons, and hems. The service is always free. If you choose to donate, every donation goes directly to a local Borrego Springs charity. Check Borrego Events to confirm time & dates.
December 1, 2025
A Musical Celebration at BSPAC
December 1, 2025
The Christmas Bazaar features local vendors, baked goods, tamales, and raffles to support the Borrego Children’s Center. Held December 6 at the RoadRunner Clubhouse. The annual Christmas Bazaar to benefit the Borrego Children’s Center will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the RoadRunner Club House, 1010 Palm Canyon. Local vendors will offer handmade items and seasonal treasures, providing an opportunity to get a head start on holiday shopping. The event will also include baked goods and tamales available for purchase. Raffle prizes will be offered throughout the morning, with all proceeds going directly to support the Borrego Children’s Center. Everyone is invited to stop by, shop from local makers, and contribute to an important community resource.
November 30, 2025
A Charlie Brown Christmas piano concert with pianist, arranger, and conductor Steve Hunter at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church on December 21 at 3 PM.
November 26, 2025
Cindie Horn – Textile Artist & Slow Fashion Creator Meet one of the makers featured at Desert Lovers & Co. Cindie Horn has spent years working with fabric, guided by an appreciation for slow fashion and craftsmanship built on time, patience, and intention. She sources and collects textiles gathered over the years and transforms them into pieces that feel personal, functional, and thoughtfully made. Her work at Desert Lovers & Co includes upcycled and embellished denim jackets, colorful phone and tablet pillows, and her popular fabric cactus sculptures. Each piece reflects her eye for detail and her interest in experimenting with textures, patterns, and new techniques. Cindie enjoys challenging herself creatively and exploring fresh ideas through fabric. Her belief that handmade items add comfort, character, and warmth to everyday life comes through clearly in her designs. Desert Lovers & Co is proud to feature the work of Cindie Horn both in the shop and online at DesertLoversandCo.com . Visit Soon: 583 Palm Canyon Dr. Suite D, Borrego Springs, CA, United States, 92004
By Fr. Michael Plekon
•
November 26, 2025
A reflection on Advent’s meaning and the saints who show us how to wait with purpose.
November 25, 2025
Happy Thanksgiving! The Borrego Springs Welcome Sign committee is grateful to the many individuals and businesses who have supported efforts to construct the first new “Welcome to Borrego Springs” sign since the 1970’s. Because of their support, we have raised almost $29,000. Donations have ranged from $10 - $5,000 and we are thankful for every single dollar. Apparently costs to construct and install the signs have gone up significantly in the last year and a half. Therefore, when we thought we had almost reached our fundraising goal, we were told we might need as much as 50% more. The Borrego Village Association has got to work looking at alternative vendors, we are currently requesting estimates, and still hoping to get the job done for closer to the original estimate. If you pledged funds, that pledge will likely be requested in December or January. If you donated cash, please know that it is safely in an account earmarked for the welcome sign. If you haven’t donated yet, PLEASE DO! More funding is certainly needed and appreciated, especially as we have two more signs to construct after this one. To donate: The Borrego Village Association, a 501c(6) c, nonprofit organization, is leading the fundraising. Contributions checks can be made out to the Borrego Village Association and sent to Borrego Village Association. P.O. Box 1133, Borrego Springs, CA 92004. Donations can also be made via PayPal found on our website at BorregoVillageAssociation.org, or made via Zelle transfer. Pledges can be made using the form below. If you have any questions or require further information, email BorregoVillage@gmail.com Happy holidays and with many thanks to those who have - or will - donate, The Welcome Sign Committee - Jim Dion, Bruce Durbin, Nancy McRae, Alicia Wszelaki -- James Dion Executive Director Borrego Village Association Learn More About Borrego Springs
Show More
