EXCLUSIVE: Stars of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Back to the Frontier Reveal What It Was Really Like to Live as 1880s Homesteaders

Behind the Scenes of Back to the Frontier Homesteading in the 1880s – Exclusive Insights

Discover what it was really like for three modern families to live like 1880s homesteaders on Magnolia Network’s Back to the Frontier. Exclusive interviews reveal emotional highs unexpected lessons and true challenges in this eight week immersive experience.

A Radical Social Experiment

Premiering July 10 on Magnolia Network and Max Back to the Frontier—executive produced by Chip and Joanna Gaines—transports three modern families to an 1880s style homestead in the Canadian Rockies. Over eight weeks they must survive without electricity running water modern clothes devices or makeup—fully immersed in the harsh realities of pioneer life.

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Meet the Families

• The Hanna Riggs Family Texas Jason and Joe a same sex couple with twin 10 year old sons joined for LGBTQ representation and a break from digital life.
• The Lopers Alabama Stacy and Joaquin along with their children wanted to test their parenting and resilience in the face of real adversity.
• The Halls Florida Jereme and Lina plus their teenage kids signed up to reconnect as a family and escape modern day distractions.

The Challenges They Faced

No Modern Conveniences

Families gave up all modern tech clothes toiletries and even flushing toilets. Everyday tasks like fetching water chopping wood and cooking became physically and emotionally draining.

Tech Withdrawal

Jason and Joe experienced phantom phone rings in the early days without their smartphones. However constant chores left no room for boredom and they gradually adjusted to the new rhythm.

Parenting in the Past

With no screens or digital aids parenting shifted dramatically. The Lopers discovered that their children were more capable and independent than expected allowing them to ease off their usual helicopter parenting style.

Lessons That Last

Appreciation for Basics

All families reported newfound gratitude for everyday amenities—electricity plumbing and even grocery stores.

Food Awareness

The Hanna Riggs family learned the true value of food through gardening and livestock care developing a greater respect for sustainability.

Stronger Bonds

Shared struggle created deep family connections. The Lopers noted how impressed they were by their children’s resilience and drive.

A Tradition in a New Format

While reminiscent of PBS’s 2002 Frontier House this series takes a more intimate emotional approach. With diverse families and fewer dramatics Back to the Frontier focuses on raw personal growth and human connection—without the noise of modern life.

Final Take

Back to the Frontier isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a bold emotionally charged experiment. In stepping back 140 years these families uncovered timeless truths about hard work family and the things that truly matter.