Filmed throughout Natchitoches, Steel Magnolias transformed familiar streets, homes and landmarks into the setting for one of the South’s most beloved films. Dolly brought warmth, humor and heart to Truvy, the spirited beauty shop owner whose salon became the gathering place for the women at the center of the story.
A Little Piece of Dolly Will Always Live in Natchitoches
More than three decades after Steel Magnolias premiered, visitors continue to travel to Natchitoches to experience the places seen on screen.
Many of the original filming locations remain today, including the Steel Magnolia House, Trinity Episcopal Church — featured as Truvy’s church — the Blanchard Building on Front Street used as Truvy’s No. 2, Beau Jardin, American Cemetery and many more locations throughout Natchitoches Parish.
Her time as Truvy became one small part of an extraordinary career, but for Natchitoches, it created a connection that continues to bring fans of Dolly and Steel Magnolias to our community.
From Music to the Movies
Dolly also brought her unmistakable personality to the screen. Her film career included 9 to 5, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas and, of course, Steel Magnolias.
In Steel Magnolias, Dolly joined Sally Field, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukakis, Julia Roberts and Daryl Hannah in telling the story of a close-knit group of Southern women navigating friendship, family, laughter and loss.
For visitors to Natchitoches, Truvy remains one of Dolly’s most recognizable connections to our city.
Walk in Truvy’s Footsteps
The story of Steel Magnolias still lives throughout Natchitoches.
Visitors can explore the real locations featured in the movie and see the streets, churches, homes and landmarks that appeared alongside Dolly and her fellow cast members.
Highlights include:
- Truvy’s No. 2 — Blanchard Building, 700 block of Front Street
- Truvy’s Church — Trinity Episcopal Church
- The Steel Magnolia House — 320 Jefferson Street
- Shelby’s Funeral — American Cemetery
- The Easter Egg Hunt — Beau Jardin
- Ouiser’s House — Lemee House
- Shelby’s Wedding — St. Augustine Catholic Church in Melrose
Forever Our Truvy
Dolly Parton gave the world an extraordinary collection of songs, characters, stories and acts of generosity.
Natchitoches was fortunate to play a small role in that remarkable story.
Through Truvy, through Steel Magnolias, and through the visitors who continue to walk the same streets where the movie was filmed, a little piece of Dolly will always remain in Natchitoches.