Who are the 7 generations of Duttons mapping the family in Yellowstone and 1883? Explained

Who are the 7 generations of Duttons mapping the Dutton family in Yellowstone and 1883? Explained
Who are the 7 generations of Duttons mapping the Dutton family in Yellowstone and 1883? Explained (Image via Paramount Network)

Yellowstone and its prequel 1883, both created by Taylor Sheridan, are depictions of family legacy and survival. Yellowstone first premiered on June 20, 2018, on Paramount Network, while 1883 debuted on December 19, 2021, on Paramount+. Yellowstone follows the Duttons' modern fight to protect their land, while 1883 traces their roots and perilous journey to Montana.

The two series are interconnected. The Dutton family's westward journey after the Civil War in 1883 established Yellowstone's ranch. Yellowstone continues the Duttons' generations-long struggle for land. These stories span nearly 150 years of Dutton family history.

The world of Yellowstone has grown to include seven generations of the Dutton family. From the founding patriarch James Dutton in 1883 to John Dutton III in Yellowstone, each generation adds to the family's history.


Mapping the 7 generations of the Dutton family in Yellowstone and 1883

1) James Dutton: The founding patriarch

James Dutton, depicted by Tim McGraw in 1883, is the foundation of the Dutton lineage. James, a farmer and Confederate Civil War veteran is tormented by his history and motivated by a quest for an improved existence for his family.

Departing from Tennessee's adversities, James undertakes a hazardous expedition to the West accompanied by his wife Margaret, daughter Elsa, son John, and extended family.

The expedition is laden with calamity, culminating in Elsa's demise from a mortal injury.

James's choice to reside in Montana signifies the inception of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch. His fortitude and resolve established a precedent for future generations to advocate for the territory he founded.


2) Margaret Dutton and the first Montana settlers

Margaret Dutton (Faith Hill) is the feisty and ingenious spouse of James Dutton. Margaret, as the family matriarch, assists James during the challenges of their westward expedition in 1883.

Her perseverance is apparent in her capacity to face her family's emotional challenges while adjusting to the severe realities of life on the trail.

Subsequent to Elsa's demise, Margaret assumes a crucial role in the establishment of their homestead in Montana. Her survival instincts and leadership enable their son John Dutton Sr. to perpetuate the family's ranching legacy.


3) John Dutton Sr. and the early ranching era

James and Margaret's son John Dutton Sr. grows up in Montana's tough terrain. As shown in 1923, John Sr. (James Badge Dale) keeps the family ranch in tandem with his uncle Jacob Dutton (Harrison Ford). He marries Emma and they have a son, Jack.

John Sr. epitomizes the diligent, unwavering Dutton family attitude. But his life is taken early in an ambush by the family's foes.

The Duttons suffer a great loss with his death, but it also emphasizes the perilous reality of defending their territory in the early 20th century.


4) Jacob and Cara Dutton: The guardians of the land

James's brother Jacob Dutton fills in as the family patriarch following James' death. Over the turbulent period depicted in 1923, Jacob (Harrison Ford) runs the ranch. Along with his wife Cara (Helen Mirren), Jacob battles to protect the territory against outside dangers, including competing ranchers and financial constraints.

As the family matriarch, Cara's consistent support and leadership guarantee the ranch stays running even with Jacob's injuries and growing needs.

Their care over these stormy years confirms the Duttons' claim on Yellowstone Ranch and unlocks the path for the next generations.


5) Jack and Elizabeth Dutton: The next chapter

John Sr. and Emma's son Jack Dutton portrays the hopes and hardships of the family's next generation. Working with his great-uncle Jacob, Jack (Darren Mann) is quite devoted to the family ranch.

His wedlock to Elizabeth, a vibrant and educated woman, points to a yearning for consistency and family development.

Their precise position on the family tree is still unknown, though; some ideas propose Jack could be John Dutton III's grandpa in Yellowstone.


6) John Dutton II: The bridge to modern times

A significant but mysterious man in the Dutton line is John Dutton II. Although he does not play a major part in the show, John Dutton III's father is essential. John Dutton II stands for the generation that confirmed the Duttons' status as formidable Montana landowners.

By his leadership, he ensures the ranch survives and passes on to his son, John Dutton III. His legacy resides in his ability to keep the family's foothold in front of growing modernization pressures.


7) John Dutton III and his legacy

John Dutton III and his legacy (Image via Paramount Network)
John Dutton III and his legacy (Image via Paramount Network)

In Yellowstone, Kevin Costner plays modern-day family patriarch John Dutton III. John works to preserve his ancestors' land as Dutton Ranch owner.

His wealth and influence make him powerful in Montana, but preserving the ranch costs him. Developers, politicians, and rival landowners threaten John.

His complicated relationships with his children—Lee, Jamie, Beth, and Kayce—intensify the family drama. John's love for the land and his grandson Tate preserve the Dutton legacy despite the obstacles.

His story outwardly presents the sacrifices needed to preserve family heritage.


Yellowstone is available to stream on Peacock.

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Edited by Prem Deshpande
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