Willie Nelson accomplished so many things in his 92 years that it should not surprise you that he had his own town. Yes, Willieville really existed, about thirty miles from Austin. And not just in your mind, either. Per savingcountrymusic.com, that quaint, homespun village is now known as Luck, Texas. Ir was constructed in 1985 as a movie set for Nelson's film, The Red Headed Stranger. At one time, it was indeed called Willieville and it was modeled after Driscoll, Montana.
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What became of Willieville? Therein lies a tale....
What Is Now Luck, Texas Is Comprised Of Real Structures That Have A Purpose
From a photo, it looks like a 19th-century town straight out of Gunsmoke. It colorfully evokes the days of the Wild West. Per the outlet, there is an opera house and a church. Sometimes it's been used as a backdrop for videos and films, and even a music event.
I decided to look it up online to get more information. The place is an "event venue." Per luckpresents.com, "The journey to Luck started in 1979 when Willie and dear friend Bill Wittliff set out to make a film version of Willie's concept album of the same name...The star built his own home on the sprawling land, just a short drive up the road from the set, and Luck, Texas was born." From what is on this web site, Luck is a thriving hub for "musicians, chefs, and artisans who are contributing to American roots culture in an authentic way."
Events There Attract Big Throngs
Per Texas Highways, "...{T}he Luck Reunion...now draws a crowd of 4,000 and features a wide diversity of artists, food trucks, merchandise, and all that you would expect from a music festival." In addition, the throwback town sees its share of weddings, parties, concerts, and get-togethers. Then there is the grandiosely-named Luck World Headquarters, which is evidently a favorite Nelson hangout.
Willie Nelson is who he is because he does not do things by half-measures. He goes full throttle all the time. It is just like him to be involved with a place that actively encourages unity, inclusiveness, and artistic creativity and expression. Long live Luck! And long live Willie Nelson!
