The Harvey Girls

The Harvey Girls

Year: 1946

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: George Sidney

ComedyWesternMusical

As the rails stretch across the American West, a parade of plucky waitresses arrive in town, bringing with them laughter, love, and a hint of jazz. In this toe-tapping comedy, the Harvey Girls' charm and wit shine bright, as they navigate the ups and downs of life on the railroad's whistle-stop route.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – The Harvey Girls (1946)
Trace every key event in The Harvey Girls (1946) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.
1

The Journey Begins

In the sun-kissed era of the 1890s, a vibrant group known as the 'Harvey Girls' embarked on a significant trip. They boarded the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway, bound for the rustic town of Sandrock in the American Southwest, filled with hopes and dreams.

Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway
2

Arrival in Sandrock

Upon reaching Sandrock, Susan Bradley was excited about her new life and potential love. However, her anticipation quickly turned to disappointment when she met her groom, who was a stark contrast to the charming figure she had envisioned.

Sandrock
3

Wedding Plans Fall Apart

As Susan and her fiancé interacted, it became clear that their personalities clashed significantly. This disagreement cast a pall over the wedding plans, leading them both to agree to call off the marriage altogether.

4

Discovery of Truth

In a shocking revelation, Susan learned that the romantic letters written to her were not from her fiancé but authored by Ned Trent, the charismatic owner of the local saloon. Fueled by anger, Susan confronted Trent, which led to a surprising connection developing between them.

Local Saloon
5

Conflict with Judge Purvis

As tensions rose, Susan found herself at the center of a growing conflict with Judge Sam Purvis, who sought to protect his business interests by intimidating the Harvey Girls. This marked the beginning of a series of confrontations that would test Susan's resolve and the unity of the Harvey Girls.

6

Em's Rivalry

Complicating matters was Em, a sultry saloon girl who harbored feelings for Trent and viewed Susan as a direct threat. This rivalry added a layer of complexity to the already strained relations between the characters, isolating Susan further.

Saloon
7

Trent Takes a Stand

Recognizing the importance of the Harvey House and its symbolism for civilization, Trent decided to confront Judge Purvis. He ordered Purvis to cease his intimidation tactics, though Purvis remained resistant, escalating tensions even further.

8

Destruction of the Restaurant

In a desperate attempt to assert his power, Judge Purvis set fire to the Harvey House restaurant, further inciting conflict in the town. This act of violence underscored the stakes involved and the dire need for a resolution.

Harvey House
9

Alternative Arrangements

Undeterred by the destruction, Trent offered his saloon as a substitute venue for the girls. This action not only demonstrated his support for Susan and the Harvey Girls but also signaled the beginning of a deeper alliance between him and Susan.

Local Saloon
10

Em's Revelation

As chaos unfolded, Em began to recognize Susan's genuine feelings for Trent. Her perspective shifted, leading her to confront her own emotions regarding the man she had been vying for, creating a moment of unexpected solidarity.

11

The Train Incident

Thinking that Trent was about to leave Sandrock, Susan attempted to board a train in a bid to follow him. However, her journey was interrupted by Em, who had started to empathize with Susan's situation, challenging her own competitive nature.

Train Station
12

Trent's True Intentions

As Susan's heart raced at the thought of losing Trent, he unexpectedly appeared at the train, dispelling her fears. His arrival proved he was not leaving, reaffirming the bond that had developed between them amidst turmoil.

13

A New Beginning

In a touching culmination of their journey, Susan and Trent exchanged vows in a desert setting, encircled by their friends, the Harvey Girls. This moment symbolized not just their love but also the resilience and hope they all fostered in the face of adversity.

Desert
14

Celebration of Friendship

The wedding signified a united front for the Harvey Girls, who had emerged stronger through their shared experiences. Their friendship and support for one another were celebrated, marking a new chapter for everyone involved in Sandrock.

Sandrock

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 21:41

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