When Does 1923 Take Place? The Timeline Explained
Quick Answer
The series begins in **late 1923** and spans through **1924-1925** in its first season. It is set during Prohibition and the 'Roaring Twenties,' though Montana was already suffering an agricultural depression years before the 1929 stock market crash.
The Forgotten Era
1923 covers a specific and often overlooked period in American history: the gap between the Wild West and the Great Depression.
While New York was enjoying the "Roaring Twenties" with flappers and jazz, Montana was already in crisis.
The Timeline Visualized
| Series | Year Set | Generation | Key Technology |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1883 | 1883 | 1st (James) | Wagons, Horses |
| 1923 | 1923-1925 | 2nd (Jacob/Spencer) | Model T Cars, Early Electricity, WWI Weapons |
| Yellowstone | 2018-2024 | 5th (John III) | Helicopters, Cell Phones |
Historical Context: Why 1923 was Hard
The show highlights three specific historical realities:
1. The Early Depression
While the rest of America crashed in 1929, rural agriculture crashed immediately after WWI (around 1920).
- The Plot: This is why Banner Creighton and the ranchers are starving. They have no money and the drought has destroyed the grass.
2. Prohibition (1920-1933)
Alcohol is illegal.
- The Plot: We see characters drinking in speakeasies, and the lack of law enforcement (focusing on rum-runners) contributes to the lawlessness on the range.
3. The End of the Old West
1923 represents the death of the "Cowboy Way."
- The Clash: Jacob Dutton rides a horse into town and is nearly hit by a car. The modern world (electricity, mining, tourism) is invading the ranch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 1923 a sequel to 1883?
Yes. It is a direct sequel set 40 years later.
How old would the 1883 characters be?
- James/Margaret: They would be in their 70s/80s, but they died previously (1890s).
- John Dutton Sr: He was 5 in 1883. He is roughly 45 in 1923.
Is it really filmed in 1920s style?
Yes. The production design meticulously recreates 1923 Butte, Montana, Nairobi, and London, using vintage cars, costumes, and weapons.
Related Characters
Related Questions
What is the best order to watch Yellowstone?
For the best emotional impact, watch in **Release Order** (*Yellowstone* S1-3 -> *1883* -> *Yellowstone* S4 -> *1923* -> *Yellowstone* S5). For a historical saga experience, watch in **Chronological Order** (*1883* -> *1923* -> *Yellowstone*).
Who Is Spencer Dutton?
Spencer Dutton (Brandon Sklenar) is the youngest son of James and Margaret Dutton (*1883*). A WWI veteran suffering from PTSD, he works as a big game hunter in Africa before being summoned home to Montana to save the ranch from ruin.
Is The Madison connected to Yellowstone?
Yes! The Madison is the 5th series in Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone franchise and serves as the direct sequel, set in the present day following the events of Yellowstone Season 5. However, it features a completely new family — the Clyburns — rather than the Duttons, making it accessible to new viewers while rewarding longtime fans.
Explore the Yellowstone Universe
Dive deeper into the Dutton family saga with our comprehensive guides and episode breakdowns.