Marcia Mae Jones was originally signed to play Becky Thatcher. Because of a growth spurt, she was recast as Mary Sawyer.
Spring Byington (Widow Douglas) in studio records/casting call lists, but did not appear or was not identifiable in the movie.
H.C. Potter was the initial director but quit over "Selsnickian interference." His footage (in black and white) was completely discarded.
Many disputes arose between photographer James Wong Howe and his associate, Technicolor photographer Wilfred M. Cline about which colors to use in wardrobe and sets. Cline wanted bright primary colors, while Howe insisted on subdued earth tones. Since Howe got his way, after one week they were not on speaking terms and The Technicolor Company banned Howe from shooting further pictures in color; Howe did not make another color film for 10 years.