The Saga of Windwagon Smith (1961): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1961, The Saga of Windwagon Smith is an animation film directed by Charles August Nichols, running about 13 minutes.

What it’s about. Sea Captain Windwagon Smith hits Westport, Kansas, the starting point of the old Oregon and Santa Fe Trails, and is quickly the laughing stock of the town; instead of traveling in the usual oxen-drawn covered wagon, he is at the helm and wheel of a Contestoga-type wagon with a full set of sails. He plans to go to Oregon by taking advantage of the prairie winds. First, he wins over the town mayor, falls in love with the mayor's beautiful daughter, Molly Crum, and then secures financial backing from the townspeople. He sets sail across the plains, with Molly Crum as a covered-wagon stowaway, and a Kansas twister looming on the horizon. And, then, the wind hits the sails. And the fan, too, if he had had one.

Who’s in it. The Saga of Windwagon Smith stars Rex Allen as Narrator, Rex Allen as Windwagon Smith (voice), Pat Brady as Band Member and Tommy Doss as Band Member, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.4/10, The Saga of Windwagon Smith has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Saga of Windwagon Smith page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Saga of Windwagon Smith tend to enjoy Spirited Away, Your Name., Grave of the Fireflies and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.