Wild West Podcast

Embark on a journey to the year 1867, where the grasses of the Plains whispered tales of imminent turmoil. Our episode chronicles the audacious maneuvers of Major General Winfield Scott Hancock, as he brandishes the might of the military in a perilous dance with the Plains tribes. We peel back the layers of the government's attempts at peace—efforts that were doomed to fail against the tribes' pressing need for their ancestral grazing lands. The narrative escalates as we trace the footsteps of scouts, the critical intelligence they gathered, and the armed escorts who became the lifeline of wagon trains venturing into the fertile prairies of spring. As the tension mounts, we find ourselves amidst the politically charged atmosphere of General Hancock's Indian Council Meeting. Listen closely as we recount the tales of Edward Wynkoop and "Wild Bill" Hickok, whose roles in this complex web of frontier relations were fraught with the push and pull of military strategies and diplomatic endeavors. Their stories unveil the intricate dynamics of cultural misunderstandings and political aspirations that brewed beneath the surface of this historic gathering, and the lingering effects that would shape the landscape of the American West. Finally, we delve into the relentless pursuit led by General Custer, painting a picture of a landscape where every move and countermove edged the U.S. military and Native tribes closer to the specter of war. From the controversial burning of a Cheyenne village to Custer’s personal trials amidst these relentless chases, we leave no stone unturned. Through stirring anecdotes and strategic analyses, we offer a raw glimpse into the heart of the American frontier, a time of conflict and conquest that would forever alter the course of history. Join us as we bring to life the echoes of the past in this gripping episode. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Don't miss the chance to delve deeper into the history of the Western Cattle Trail. Sign up for a free Western Cattle Trail Newsletter for a limited time. The newsletter will include featured articles by noted Western authors on historical accounts of the cattle drives of the 1880s. Additionally, those who receive the free newsletter will get exclusive updates on upcoming conferences, minutes from the WCTA meetings, legislative updates to trail activities, and announcements of historical events along the trail. So, sign up today for a free, limited-time WCTA newsletter and embark on a journey through the rich history of the Western Trail. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

The Western Cattle Trail Association is delighted to announce that it will be hosting an exclusive 150-anniversary conference in Dodge City, Kansas, on November 1st & 2nd. This two-day gathering, reserved for those truly passionate about the history of the Western Trail, is not just a celebration but also a unique platform to delve into the history of the Western Trail, provide free historical trolley rides of Dodge City, and a round table to discuss the formation of a cattle trails consortium. The upcoming conference provides a rare chance to learn about the historic trails that played a significant role in shaping America. These trails include the Western, Goodnight-Loving, Chisholm, and Shawnee trails. The conference will take place on Friday and Saturday, followed by the prestigious Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame induction ceremony. On the evening of November 2, Michael Martin Murphey will give a captivating solo performance at the Dodge City Convention Center. Tickets will be sold separately for the Cowboy Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and concert. Remember to mark your calendars for this momentous event in 2024: the 150-anniversary conference of the Western Cattle Trail, which will be held on November 1st and 2nd in Dodge City, Kansas. We eagerly anticipate your presence as we commemorate 150 years of the Western Cattle Trail in Dodge City, Kansas. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Embark on a thrilling journey to the raucous streets of 19th-century Abilene with us, where the legends of the Wild West come alive. Get ready to be transported to a world where cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen like Wild Bill Hickok and Tom Smith walked with a swagger, and the promise of prosperity mingled with the ever-present risk of gunfights. Our narration will bring you face-to-face with the hardy saloon keepers, shrewd gamblers, and the notorious sporting women who turned this cowtown into an emblem of the untamed frontier. As the sun sets on Texas Street, the tales of heroism and chaos await to captivate you. Discover the fine line between civilization and lawlessness that these historical giants tread upon as they sought to impose order in a town brimming with outlaws and dreamers. You'll hear firsthand accounts of epic showdowns and the impact of the cattle drives as we paint a picture of Abilene’s complex metamorphosis from a dusty village into a bustling hub of nightlife and vice. Conclude this historical adventure with reflections on the lingering spirit of Abilene, as we extend an invitation to continue exploring the dusty trails and tumultuous skies of the Wild West's past. Your engagement means the world to us; every comment and thought could shape the stories we tell next. Subscribe for more episodes that promise to stir the embers of a time when the West was truly wild, and every corner had a saga to share. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Feel the icy winds and hear the echoes of challenge and survival as we unveil the untold narratives of Fort Dodge's pioneering spirits. This episode promises to transplant you to the heart of a 19th-century military outpost, where Major Henry Douglas and his command contended with more than just the bitter cold. Mike King, a historian who profoundly understands the era, guides us through the Douglas family's trials, the lawlessness fueled by whiskey ranches, and the enduring friction between the military and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Understand the true meaning of solitude and resilience through the eyes of those who braved the remote frontiers of America. From the intimate struggles of a woman determined to maintain a semblance of home to the looming threats of Chief Satanta and the Kiowa tribe, each moment is a testament to the raw human spirit. We navigate the perilous landscape of diplomatic tensions, midnight alarms, and the forbidden whiskey trades that tested the mettle of Fort Dodge's inhabitants, offering you a seat at the fire to witness history like never before. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Embark on a trek through time as we uncover the remarkable story of Isadore Douglas and her family's poignant journey westward in the aftermath of the Civil War. Imagine braving the unknown frontier, where every step is a dance with danger and every letter home is a testament to survival. You're invited to live through Isidore's eyes, as her correspondence with her mother offers us a window into the raw emotions and harsh realities faced on the plains—from the joy and anxiety of impending motherhood to the looming fears of cholera and financial hardship. As we follow her husband Henry's military ascent, we trace the family’s footsteps from the relative comfort of Columbus, Ohio, to the vast expanses of Kansas, where the promise of new beginnings meets the grit of pioneer life. Strap in for the second leg of our historical saga, where we join the Douglas clan on a rugged expedition from Elm Creek to the storied Fort Zarah. Venture through the untamed wilds as we experience nature's capricious whims, from storms that ravage encampments to frigid nights under the stars, and confront the wildlife that roams the plains. Alongside Isidore's vivid narrations, we navigate critical lifelines like stage stations and the Barlow-Sanderson coaches that dotted the desolate Fort Riley-Fort Larned Road. Arriving at Fort Zarah, we gain insight into the legends of the Santa Fe Trail and the perils at Pawnee Rock. Prepare for an episode that not only chronicles an epic passage but also immortalizes the indomitable spirit that shaped a nation. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Step into the dusty boots of Major General Grenville Dodge as we venture into the heart of the post-Civil War American frontier, where securing the wild plains was as treacherous as it was vital. Our episode, guided by an esteemed historian, captures the essence of life at Fort Dodge, the strategic military stronghold pivotal in taming the Western Kansas frontier. Hear about the soldiers' grueling efforts to build safe havens amidst hostile territory, and how these fortifications laid the groundwork for a period of American history rife with conflict and transformation. Witness the volatile relationship between the US military and the Plains Indian tribes through vivid tales of raids and the powerful leaders who orchestrated them. We unravel the complexities of Indian diplomacy with a spotlight on Kiowa Chief Satanta's influence, his storied battle gear, and the intense negotiations over captive settlers—a sobering reality faced by those like Mary Matthews, whose personal account brings a gripping perspective to these historical standoffs. Each narrative strand weaves a rich tapestry of the struggles and strategies that defined the wild, untamed West, making this episode a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the era where legends were forged on the frontier. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Step back in time on our auditory trail as we unearth the powerful yet overlooked stories of African American cowboys. Through the unyielding dust of cattle drives and the camaraderie of the trail, we pay homage to trailblazers like Bose Ikard, who navigated the complexities of a post-slavery America to etch their names in the annals of frontier history. Immerse yourself in a narrative that melds bravery with the raw beauty of the Wild West, exploring how these cowboys were instrumental in shaping the cattle industry and, in turn, the fabric of the nation. Experience the gritty reality of the Goodnight-Loving Trail, where the bond between man and the wild was a matter of survival. Listen to the tales of partnership and perseverance as we recount how Ikard and his peers faced down the elements, wrangled broncs with sheer tenacity, and navigated treacherous encounters. Their odyssey through the unforgiving terrain wasn't just about moving herds; it was about laying down the tracks for future generations, proving that courage and friendship could triumph over the racial barriers of their time. As the sun sets on our episode, we reflect on the rich tapestry left behind by figures Bose Ikard. His legacies are not just inscriptions on headstones or names in dusty tomes; they are vibrant threads in the American story, urging us to recognize and celebrate the multiplicity of our shared heritage. Join us in this tribute to the African American cowboys whose spirit and stories are as enduring as the landscape they once rode across, forever altering our perception of the legendary American West. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Discover the unsung heroes of the Wild West as we share the riveting tales of Black American Cowboys, who emerged as skilled drovers and cow punchers in the post-Civil War era. Our journey through history celebrates these trailblazers, whose stories are often overshadowed, despite making up one-quarter of the 19th-century cowboy population. Join us for an episode that promises to enrich your understanding of these men who found autonomy and respect on the open range and left an indelible mark on the cattle industry. We breathe life into the adventures of the legendary cowboy Nat Love, and travel the demanding paths that led to Montana, exploring the rich tapestry of experiences these cowboys faced. From the hardworking ranch hand to the multilingual trail cook, the episode paints a vivid picture of their indispensable contributions and the resilience they embodied. Saddle up with us as we pay homage to the courage, skill, and spirit of the Black American Cowboys, and celebrate their central role in the story of the American West. Join us at The Western Cattle Trail Association for 150 years of stories. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Strap on your spurs and hold onto your hats as I, Cranky McCabe, whisk you away to the days when Dodge City was overrun with buffalo hunters, traders, and outlaws. Ever wondered what it'd be like to stand in the midst of a buffalo stampede or face down danger at the turn of a card? Our latest journey into the echoes of the past promises tales of adventure, peril, and the raw edge of survival. Together with Billy Dixon and other frontier legends, we travel back to a time where every decision could mean life or untimely death, and every shadow in the saloon hid a potential enemy. Feel the grit in your teeth and the tension in the air as we recount the lawless days of Dodge City, through bustling trade and bloody gunfights. We'll share the harrowing experiences of Mr. Rath and Robert Wright, whose buffalo hide trading venture near the railroad tracks led to a hunting frenzy and more than a few close shaves with the native residents of those plains. You'll sit ringside at Tom Sherman's saloon for a shootout that rattled the walls and left its mark on the town's infamous history. It's not just a trip through time; it's an immersion into the unbridled spirit of the Old West, with every word a step down the main street of a bygone era. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Ever wonder how a legendary Wild West town like Dodge City came to be? Prepare to be transported to the very roots of this iconic boomtown, where the dreams of early settlers flourished alongside the roaring trains of progress. Your ears won't believe the tales of Dodge City's first entrepreneurs, John MacDonald and George Hoover, or the dramatic fate of the Essington House's proprietor that led to the town's first burial in Boot Hill. And just wait until you hear about Frank Hopper, or Norf Mike, whose writings catapulted Dodge City into the national consciousness. Step right up for a behind-the-scenes look at the gritty beginnings and the enterprising souls of Dodge City. You'll discover the crucial businesses—like Jacob Coller's general store and FC Zimmerman's gunsmith shop—that kept the heart of the frontier beating. And we're setting the record straight on historical figures like George Hoover and John McDonald, unearthing the impact of their actions on the town's legacy. From tales of entrepreneurship to frontier violence, this episode promises a rich narrative tapestry, wrapping you in the very fabric of American Western lore. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Imagine journeying through a blizzard-stricken landscape in late 1868, alongside General Custer and his men. Intrigued? That's just a taste of the thrilling expedition we embark on in today's episode, as we delve deep into General Sheridan's campaign. We're thrust into the harsh realities of the time - troops scattered across vast distances, severe winter conditions, and the audacious leadership of General Custer. Alongside Custer, we navigate the blizzard, shedding light on the Osage scouts' perspectives and the daring strategy that led to a shift in command. The thrill intensifies as we march alongside Custer and his cavalry, navigating snow-covered plains in pursuit of an elusive war party. Experience every chill of the snow, the discomfort of melting snow, and the relentless pursuit of securing food, while also tracing the trails of a potential enemy. Hear about the riveting decision to leave behind the wagons to pursue the Indians faster, the heated discussions among officers, and the exciting advance through the darkness. With every moment, we bring the past alive, leaving you on the edge of your seat, eager to discover the aftermath of this daring pursuit. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Join us on a captivating journey back in time as we unravel the heartwarming traditions of Christmas in the Old West. We've enlisted the help of historian Lucian Ruhl to paint a vivid picture of Christmas celebrations among pioneers, cowboys, and settlers. Sit back and immerse yourself in fascinating stories like Ruhl's family's harrowing journey from Virginia to Kentucky in the late 1790s. Discover how the spirit of Christmas brought joy, hope, and unity to the people fighting against challenging circumstances. As the episode progresses, we navigate you through the tale of a business meeting on Christmas Eve in Dodge City that surprisingly leads to a town divide. We also shed light on the Kincaid family's humble and hopeful Christmas Eve celebration in the Oregon Territory. These stories reveal the resilience and spirit that existed amidst the hardships of pioneer life. To wrap up this festive journey, we're giving you a nostalgic glimpse into the preparation and feast of a pioneer Christmas. Get ready to be imbued with a remarkable sense of admiration for our forebears! Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Brace yourself for an unforgettable foray into the captivating narrative of Robert Service's poem, "The Cremation of Sam McGee." As the icy winds of the Klondike Gold Rush era whip around you, absorb the poignant tale of two friends' perilous quest for gold. Discover the historical significance of the term "sourdough," as we lead you deeper into the frigid Yukon wilderness. Marvel at how Service, like his characters, found inspiration in his surroundings. The chilling scene of Sam's cremation on the frosty expanse of Lake Labarge is brought to life in a dramatic reading of the poem. Illuminating the sacrifices made in the relentless pursuit of wealth, this haunting piece acts as a testament to human fortitude, enduring loyalty, and broken promises. The raw, stark imagery and grim themes of this iconic poem have forever carved their place in the annals of literature. Delving into the eerie scene of McGee's cremation, we dissect how Service harnesses the potent power of words to paint a vivid picture of the harsh Yukon environment. This immersive exploration of the poem's themes and historical context underscores the tragic consequences of the gold rush. As we uncover the true meaning of "sourdough" and its connection to the Yukon, the poem's profundity unfurls, revealing an intricate tapestry of emotion and human perseverance. Join us on this journey, as we celebrate one of the most memorable poems from the Klondike Gold Rush era. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Picture this: it's 1858, a rugged miner's camp is bustling with activity, and a piano mysteriously shows up just in time for Christmas Eve. Oh, the chaos and hilarity that ensues! Journey with us as we follow our hearty miners wrestling with setting up the instrument and scrambling to find a player. This isn't just a piano; it's a beacon of camaraderie and festive spirit, shining through their rough and tumble exterior. Tune into our special presentation of 'A Miner's Christmas Carol' by Samuel Davis, edited by Mike King, and let Brad Smalley's narration whisk you away to a comical yesteryear. But wait, there's more! Can you imagine discovering a long-lost stranger on a Christmas Eve, a man who disappeared with a hefty sum of money? That's exactly what happens to Goskin and Driscoll, our beloved characters from the miner's tale. Embark on a captivating quest with them as they navigate through old grudges and current suspicions, all the while unearthing the essence of Christmas, tradition, and memory. Their Christmas wish extends not only to themselves but to you, our dedicated listeners. So, grab a hot cup of cocoa, find a comfy chair, and get ready to be immersed in a mesmerizing world of twists and turns. Trust us, you won't want to miss the end of this tale. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Prepare to be transported back to the Kansas plains of 1872! You'll journey alongside Richard Irving Dodge, a soldier stationed at the heart of the Wild West, as he recounts the awe-inspiring sight of a massive buffalo herd numbering in the hundreds of thousands. The vast prairie comes alive as he shares tales of life at Fort Dodge and his interactions with Robert M. Wright. But life on the plains is not all breathtaking scenery and peaceful coexistence. The episode takes a dramatic turn as we recount the fiery confrontation between Captain Reif and Captain Moore at Fort Dodge, followed by the chaos instigated by a drunken Lieutenant Turner. As we navigate through these tales, we uncover the struggles of maintaining order among soldiers and the controversies surrounding alcohol consumption. The episode concludes with a look at the aftermath as we discuss the decision to establish a township near the fort and the impending court-martial charges. Listeners of Wild West Podcast should tune in for this riveting journey into the untamed life of soldiers in the Kansas plains during the 1870s. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Settle in, saddle up and join us as we ride alongside George W Brown and Prairie Dog Morrow, two audacious characters who guide us through the exhilarating era of buffalo hunting in the Great Plains of the 1870s. Hear how they mastered the art of buffalo hunting and their thrilling adventures from the Dakotas to Montana. Prairie Dog even reveals his unique prairie dog catching technique, an unexpected skill that surprisingly comes in handy on the frontier. Our journey doesn't stop at hunting. Just when you think it’s all buffalo hides and prairie dog tales, we introduce the whiskey saga at Fort Dodge. Hear the inside story of why a liquor ban was implemented, how it stirred chaos, and birthed a new underground business just outside the fort’s walls. Thriving despite the ban, these rogue whiskey sellers turned the frontier into the wild west we all know. But remember, every party has a hangover. We'll share the chilling story of a young man named Langford, whose life took a fateful turn after a perilous night of drinking. Finally, listen to the heart-tugging story of Langford's grueling recovery from five gunshot wounds, an aftermath of a drunken brawl. Through this, we explore the dire repercussions of alcohol use, the role of friendship, and the extraordinary resilience of the human body. This isn't just history; it's an adventure, a cautionary tale, and a celebration of the human spirit all rolled into one riveting episode. So grab your headphones, your favorite drink (responsibly, of course) and get ready for a wild ride through the plains of the 1870s! Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Imagine the southern plains once teeming with 50 million buffaloes, a resource so vast it was considered inexhaustible. Then, picture it transforming into a desolate, putrid desert, the aftermath of a rampant hunting spree fueled by the discovery of buffalo leather by tanneries worldwide, the westward migration of war veterans and the establishment of railroads. This episode takes you on an engrossing journey through this pivotal, and often ignored chapter of American history. We'll discuss how the pursuit of quick wealth led to the unintentional theft of the Indians' livelihood and the severe disruption of natural replenishment, leaving the plains a wasteland and the once-thriving buffalo population in shambles. Fast forward to 1872, when the big hunt left the Arkansas buffalo herd in ruins, and hunters began encroaching on the Indian hunting grounds in southwestern Kansas. We'll recount riveting tales of their encounters with the military and the shocking scale of devastation through Lieutenant Colonel Dodge's eyes. The devastation was so profound that the plains, once bustling with buffalo life, were now filled with a sickening stench from the myriad of carcasses left to rot. The episode continues with a deep dive into the Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867 and its implications for the buffalo hunting grounds. Join us as we shed light on this significant period of American history, a time of rapid change and devastating loss. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Get ready to hitch a ride to the wild frontier with tales from the legendary George W Brown, also known as Hoodoo Brown. Born under the Missouri skies in 1847, he invites us into his past, from fighting in the Union Army to life as a bullwacker, hauling wood for the government. His trailblazing tales are packed with excitement, danger, and the raw reality of frontier life. With every twist and turn, from dodging wild Texas steers to navigating treacherous wagon trips, we're right there with him. And the journey doesn't end there! The second half of our adventure features Jack Stilwell, a scout handpicked by Colonel George A Forsythe for a special operations unit. He takes us from being recruited at Fort Hays to the throes of intense battles, leaving us hanging on his every word. Jack’s recollections of the Battle at Beecher's Island will make your heart pound and your mind spin. Then, it's back to George Brown as he teams up with Buffalo Bill and other scouts on a mission to clear the Republican region of Indians. These unmissable chronicles from the frontier will have you yearning for the wide open plains and the echo of cattle drives in the distance. Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Strap yourselves in folks, we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the wild and gritty tales of the legendary Wild West! Ever heard of the infamous Bat Masterson? Well, this episode is all about his equally intriguing brother, James Masterson. We shine a spotlight on his tumultuous life, culminating in his pivotal role in the Battle of the Plaza and the exhilarating Battle of Ingalls. This episode is not just a history lesson, it's a thrilling ride that will transport you back in time, making you feel like you're right in the heart of the action! Are you ready to face the Doolin-Dalton Gang with us? Fasten your seatbelts as we delve into the notorious lives of outlaws like Bill Doolin, Bitter Creek Newton, Arkansas Tom Jones, Dan Clifton, Tulsa Jack, and George Redbuck Whiteman. Feel the tension rise as we relive the dramatic escape of George Bitter Creek Newcombe from a hostile Comanche band and his subsequent face-off with deputy Dick Speed in Ingalls. The adrenaline doesn't stop there! We intricately weave the narrative of the intense gun battle that ensued, with James Masterson and the townsfolk caught in the crossfire. Finally, we dissect the heart-stopping gunfight in the tiny town of Ingalls, Oklahoma. Picture the scene - Arkansas Tom, trapped, his comrades escaping amidst a hailstorm of bullets. Experience the desperation of Doolan's frantic search for wire cutters for their escape. Feel the dread as Arkansas Tom watches the dust settle after his friends' escape, left alone in the deafening silence following the chaos. This episode is a wild rollercoaster of gripping narratives, fraught with danger, suspense, and the raw, unfiltered reality of the Wild West. So, hold onto your hats; this will be an unforgettable ride! Support the Show. Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books