The Long Paddock 4x4, 4WD, caravan, camper trailer, camping products reviews, tests, comparisons by Mark Allen
4WDING, CAMPING,CARAVANING, ADVENTURING...& A BLOODY GOOD LAUGh

The 1985 miniseries adaptation of Anne of Green Gables is a two-part television event that covers the early life and growth of Anne Shirley. Starring Megan Follows, it remains the highest-rated dramatic program in the history of the Part 1: The Arrival at Green Gables The story begins with Anne Shirley

Part 1 ends: Anne and Gilbert compete for the Queen’s Academy entrance exams. Anne wins the Avery Scholarship (full ride to college). Gilbert, beaten but respectful, watches her triumph. Marilla and Matthew are proud.

The screen faded to black, leaving the audience with the enduring image of Green Gables—not just as a house, but as a feeling. It was a story about belonging, about finding family in the most unexpected places, and about a red-headed girl who, against all odds, found her way into the hearts of millions.

Do you have a special connection to this adaptation or the novel itself?

It was a scene that stopped the nation. The actor Richard Farnsworth played Matthew’s final moments with such quiet dignity. A heart attack in the field, found by Anne and Marilla. The loss of the one person who had loved her unconditionally from the very start shattered Anne’s academic dreams.

Anne’s Decision: Anne turns down the Avery Scholarship (Redmond College) to stay at Green Gables and teach, saving Marilla from having to sell the farm.

The Long Paddock 4x4, 4WD, caravan, camper trailer, camping products reviews, tests, comparisons by Mark Allen