This is the show that is responsible for my family owning a 'color' TV. Daddy, more than any other program, wanted to watch "Bonanza" in 'color'. "Bonanza" was first on in 1959 and ran until 1973.  Ben Cartwright owned the "Ponderosa" ranch in Nevada.  And according to the map he owned most of Nevada! He had three sons by three different wives. The oldest, Adam, was played by Pernell Roberts. The middle son, Hoss, was played by Dan Blocker. The youngest son, "Little Joe" , was played by Michael Landon. Ben was played by Lorne Greene.

"Little Joe"

"Pa" or "Ben"

"Hoss"

"Adam"

Lots of information on "Bonanza" and the Cartwrights at BONANZA: THE WEBSITE (click here)