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
January 28, 2026
Event Overview The Denim & Diamonds Gala is a hoedown-style fundraising event celebrating three decades of community care by the Borrego Valley Endowment Fund (BVEF) . Proceeds from the gala support programs that strengthen the well-being of Borrego Valley residents, including healthcare, education, arts, environmental initiatives, and community development. Live Music and Entertainment Live music will be provided by Sean Oliu and the Coastline Cowboys. The program also includes cowboy poetry by Carey Peck, along with line dancing, auctions, and interactive activities throughout the afternoon. Date, Time, and Location Date: February 21, 2026 Time: 2:00–5:00 PM Location: The Center 590 Palm Canyon Drive Borrego Springs, California Tickets and Food Tickets: $100 per person Pre-order: give@bvefund.org Availability: Limited tickets available at the event Food will be served by Pablito’s, with a cash bar available.
January 28, 2026
The Journey Film Screening in Borrego Springs This film screening in Borrego Springs brings an important documentary and community conversation together in one evening. The Journey shares the real-life stories of three survivors, focusing on strength, resilience, and determination. The screening is free and followed by a discussion designed to inform, educate, and raise awareness about human trafficking. Attendees will learn why survivor-led storytelling matters and how local communities can better understand and respond to this issue. Film Screening Details Admission: Free Date: January 28 Time: 6:30 PM Location: Borrego Springs High School – Community Room Borrego Springs, CA About the Film The Journey is presented by DOC Land Films and highlights the lived experiences of three survivors. The film focuses on recovery, personal strength, and the realities surrounding human trafficking, offering an educational and human-centered perspective. Film Screening and Discussion The screening is followed by a community discussion, providing space for reflection, questions, and conversation about prevention, awareness, and support. Sponsors This film screening is sponsored by the Borrego Springs Soroptimist Club in partnership with Borrego Springs High School. Community Focus Stop Human Trafficking This free film screening is open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. The event encourages learning, awareness, and thoughtful dialogue through film. Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 27, 2026
Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 26, 2026
Cafecito Monday brought together longtime friends and new faces on Monday, January 26, at Yellow Woman Ranch in Borrego Springs. The weekly morning gathering, organized by Rossy Sanchez, owner of Yellow Woman Ranch, was held from 8 to 10 a.m. and introduced guests to traditional Cuban cafecito paired with sweet and savory treats. Attendees relaxed on the ranch grounds, enjoying mountain views and conversation in a welcoming setting.
January 26, 2026
Performance Date: January 27, 2026
January 26, 2026
Paintings & Private Collection See Nita Wipper Paintings & Her Private Art Collection in Borrego Springs, Feb 7–Mar 1, 2026, curated by Elizabeth Rodriguez at The Palms. Nita Wipper: Paintings & Her Private Art Collection is on view Feb 7–Mar 1, 2026 at The Gallery at The Palms in Borrego Springs. Curated by Elizabeth Rodriguez , the show features Wipper’s paintings plus works by Marjorie Reed, Leslie Duncan, Joe Garcia, Betty Carr, Toni Williams, Armand Vallee, and Debra Huse , along with Mexican artifacts including crosses, masks, mirrors, sculptures, angels, padres y animalitos . Visit Details Dates: February 7 – March 1, 2026 Hours: Daily, 9:30 am – 8:30 pm Location: The Gallery at The Palms, 2220 Hoberg Rd, Borrego Springs Opening Reception: Saturday, Feb 7, 5–8 pm Phone: 760-443-3300 Email: houseofborregosprs@sbcglobal.net Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 26, 2026
RoadRunner Club Benefit Tournament The RoadRunner Club will host its 38th Annual Senior Center Benefit Golf Tournament on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 , continuing a long-running tradition of community support through golf. The tournament benefits the Borrego Springs Senior Center and brings together local golfers, sponsors, and supporters for a day on the course. Tournament Details Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Start Time: 9:00 am shotgun start Format: Four-person scramble Teams: Sign up as a team, couple, or single player Teams & pairings: Posted on the golf bulletin board Entry & Donations The entry fee is a $35 donation per golfer to the Borrego Springs Senior Center. The RoadRunner Club will donate the green fees, ensuring proceeds directly support Senior Center programs. Golfers will enjoy complimentary coffee, Bailey’s, beer, water, soft drinks, and hot dogs during the event. Hole Sponsorship Opportunity Community members and businesses are invited to sponsor a hole for $100 . Sponsors do not need to golf to participate. Personalized signs will be displayed on the golf course, or sponsors may request the same message used in prior years. Registration Information Golf cut-off date: Friday, February 20, at 5:00 pm Payment: Checks payable to Borrego Springs Senior Center Submit forms: Men’s Golf Drop Box by the cardroom door Or mail to P.O. Box 1514, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Questions For additional information, contact Tom Beck at (503) 357-1680 . This annual tournament remains an important way the RoadRunner Club supports the Borrego Springs Senior Center while offering a relaxed and social day of golf for the community. Learn More About Borrego Springs
January 26, 2026
Language of Hands at Studio 628 in Borrego Springs Language of Hands by artist Robert Beckmann is currently on view at Studio 628 on Palm Canyon Drive in Borrego Springs, California. The exhibit runs until February 28 and is curated by Gary Henderson. This show features small painting studies focused on hands. Some hands are occupied in different activities, while others are shown in repose. The subjects are described as enigmatic, with a feeling of both peace and something disruptive that cannot be seen. Dates and Location Exhibit: The Language of Hands Artist: Robert Beckmann Where: Studio 628, Palm Canyon Drive, Borrego Springs, CA On view: Until February 28 Curated by: Gary Henderson What the Show Features Language of Hands centers on gesture and stillness through a series of small works, including: Hands engaged in different actions Hands in repose Study-style paintings with close-up viewpoints Quiet scenes with subtle tension About the Artist: Robert Beckmann Robert Beckmann has a career spanning decades, and his artwork is featured in more than 20 museums in the United States and internationally. About the Curator: Gary Henderson The exhibit is curated by Gary Henderson, founder of Gary Henderson Interiors (formerly Henderson Kelly). Established in 2002, the boutique interior design studio is based in Seattle and also has an office in Borrego Springs. The firm works on new construction, remodels, and existing spaces, offering services that include space planning, interior design, project management, and purchasing.
January 23, 2026
Babes Ride Out Scheduled to Return to Borrego Springs in April Babes Ride Out , a women-focused motorcycle event, is scheduled to take place in Borrego Springs from April 24 to April 26. The event will be hosted at the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort, which has been fully reserved for attendees during that time. Babes Ride Out began in Borrego Springs in 2013 and has since expanded to additional locations nationally and internationally. Borrego Springs continues to host one of the organization’s annual gatherings. Babes Ride Out and Its History in Borrego Springs Babes Ride Out began in Borrego Springs in 2013 when founders Ashmore Ellis and Anya Violet invited a small group of women riders to camp and ride together in the desert. What started as a gathering of about 75 participants quickly grew, with Borrego Springs becoming closely associated with the event’s early identity. Over the years, Babes Ride Out expanded to additional locations across the United States and internationally, but Borrego Springs has remained one of its original and recurring host communities.
January 23, 2026
Celebrating 20 Years of Desert Photography
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