Episodes

  • Frontier Innovation and the Remarkable Story of Dr. Simpson "The Cowboy Dentist"
    Nov 28 2024

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    Have you ever wondered how a refined gentleman could thrive in the wild, rugged landscape of the Old West? Join us as we uncover the extraordinary saga of Dr. Oscar H. Simpson, the daring dentist who swapped his silk top hat for a cowboy hat in Dodge City, Kansas. Known as the Mayo of Dentistry, Dr. Simpson's journey is a fascinating tale of resilience and ingenuity. From facing skepticism and ridicule in the notorious Long Branch Saloon to pioneering dental techniques that drew national acclaim, Simpson's story is a testament to courage and innovation. Discover how this stalwart professional not only survived but thrived, leaving an indelible mark on his community and beyond.

    Embark on a journey through Dr. Simpson's groundbreaking career, where his trailblazing methods redefined dentistry in the American West. With a knack for efficiency, he could perform an astonishing number of root canals in a single day, earning him a reputation that transcended Kansas borders. Despite the controversies, his contributions were recognized even by the US Supreme Court. Beyond the dental chair, where did his passions lead? Into the world of dairy farming, showcasing a versatility that truly set him apart. Tune in for an episode brimming with the spirit of the Old West and the remarkable exploits of a true pioneer.

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    23 mins
  • Charting the Linguistic Frontier: Legends and Language in Dodge City
    Nov 23 2024

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    Step into the Wild West with us as we unravel the colorful linguistic tapestry of Dodge City! Here, words like "stinker," "stiff," "joint," and "cooler" paint a vibrant picture of life on the frontier. Join us on a journey through tales of unforgettable characters and the gritty realities they faced as we uncover the rich cultural history woven into the very language of this iconic town.

    In this exciting episode, we explore how these terms have transformed against the backdrop of Dodge City's chaotic charm, which mirrors its dynamic social scene and lively, if sometimes unruly, inhabitants.

    Meet the infamous Luke McGlue—a true master of mischief and evasion—as we explore the cultural significance of language in a place where law and order often felt optional. From vigilantism to Bat Masterson, the playful prankster, and the cleverly named "cooler" used to maintain a fragile peace, the words of Dodge City give us a fascinating glimpse into the town's untamed spirit.

    Together, we'll illuminate the incredible linguistic legacy left by buffalo hide hunters and the raucous street life, inviting you to experience the wickedest little city in the West in all its aromatic glory! Join us for an adventure that promises to be as entertaining as it is enlightening!

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    20 mins
  • 🔒 Intertwined Fates: Dutch Henry Born and His Historical Footprints
    Nov 14 2024

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    What if the legendary figure Dutch Henry Born was more than just an outlaw of the American frontier? Join us as we unravel the tangled threads of his life, beginning with his uneasy alliance as a scout under General Custer, and his moral conflict following the Black Kettle Massacre. Mike King and Brad Smalley dig deep into Born’s transition from military service to buffalo hunting, a shift that marked the onset of his criminal endeavors. We question whether his actions were motivated by personal biases or genuine ethical concerns, and we grapple with the historical inconsistencies that make tracing Born’s true story as challenging as it is fascinating.

    Our exploration doesn't stop there. We venture into Born’s possible connections with historical icons like Levi Richardson and Bat Masterson, speculating on whether a bond formed during the Battle of Adobe Walls influenced Masterson's relentless pursuit of justice. Through compelling, albeit circumstantial, evidence, we entertain the likelihood of Dutch Henry's presence at Adobe Walls despite the potential for embellishment in historical narratives. This episode challenges the reliability of historical records and invites listeners to draw their own conclusions about Dutch Henry Born’s enigmatic legacy on the American frontier.

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    29 mins
  • The Unwritten Code of Dutch Henry Born and the Lawmen Who Pursued Him
    Nov 13 2024

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    What if one promise could define an outlaw's entire legacy? Discover the audacious life of Dutch Henry Born, a Wild West figure whose bold pledge to never steal a white man's horse captivated the frontier. From leading a daring horse-stealing syndicate across four states to his tense encounters with law enforcement and the military, Born’s story is one of fearless escapades and relentless pursuits. Unravel the intricate web of his criminal network, where thieves and fences operated with precision, and witness the dramatic moments that defined his life, including his capture and miraculous survival in Russell, Kansas.

    Join us as we navigate the stormy relationship between Born and the law, exploring his interactions with iconic figures like Charles Goodnight and the 4th US Cavalry. Witness the precarious dance of justice as Born evades capture time and again, challenging the very fabric of law enforcement in the Wild West. Through gripping anecdotes and pivotal confrontations, the episode sheds light on the ripple effects of Born’s actions on local communities and law officials like Bat Masterson. Immerse yourself in the untamed frontier, where the line between outlaw and legend blurs, and explore how Dutch Henry Born’s daring life left an indelible mark on history.

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    31 mins
  • 🔒 Legends of Boot Hill Burial Ground and Dodge Cities Quest for Justice
    Nov 10 2024

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    Step back in time to the rugged frontier of Dodge City, where untamed chaos and colorful characters gave rise to its infamous reputation. Brace yourself for the untold stories of notorious figures like Jack Reynolds and the elusive Black Jack, whose lives and deaths echo the lawlessness of the Wild West. Through the tales of violence and whiskey-fueled antics, we promise an eye-opening exploration of how Dodge City's Boot Hill became a symbol of this lawless era, setting the stage for its eventual transformation.

    Discover the turbulent events of 1873 that sparked the birth of law and order in Dodge City. From Colonel Dodge's imposition of martial law to the election of Charlie Bassett as the first sheriff, witness the crucial moments that reshaped the city. As we recount the stark contrasts in law enforcement around the railroad tracks and share the tragic fates of figures like William Ellis, we piece together the gritty reality of a frontier town striving to break free from its wicked past. Join us as we unravel the legacy of Dodge City's notorious beginnings and the community's push toward civility.

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    29 mins
  • 🔒 Uncovering the Western Cattle Trail: Legendary Drives, Military Forts, and the Rise of Dodge City with Brad Smalley
    Nov 7 2024

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    Join us on a historical journey through the American West with Brad Smalley, a vibrant storyteller and fourth-generation Dodge Citian, as we uncover the compelling tales of the Western Cattle Trail. We promise you’ll gain a deeper understanding of a transformative era in American history, as Brad shares vivid accounts from the post-Civil War period, highlighting pivotal moments such as the establishment of military forts along critical trade routes and the impactful Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867. This episode intricately weaves personal and historical narratives, shedding light on the roles of influential figures like General William Tecumseh Sherman, and examining the broader implications of these strategic realignments.

    As we reminisce about this bygone era, we celebrate the trailblazing efforts of John T. Lytle, who in 1874 drove 3,500 cattle from Texas to Nebraska, marking the birth of the Western Cattle Trail. Discover how Dodge City emerged as a key shipping hub, fortified by the Kansas Quarantine Line, which kept Texas cattle west due to tick-borne illnesses. Through Brad’s captivating storytelling, this episode honors the enduring legacy of these historical developments and underscores the importance of keeping these stories alive as part of our collective history. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of the Western Cattle Trail and the remarkable stories that continue to shape our understanding of the American West.

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    19 mins
  • Chasing Dutch Henry Born: Rebellion, Infamy, and the High-Stakes Pursuit in the American West
    Oct 24 2024

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    What if one man's rebellion against the military set him on a path to infamy in the untamed territories of the American West? Join us as we unravel the saga of Dutch Henry Born, a figure whose life was as wild as the frontier itself. Born to German immigrants in Wisconsin, Born’s journey through the 1870s is a riveting tale of accusations, escape, and eventual notoriety. From his alleged murder charge in Michigan to his scouting days alongside George Armstrong Custer and Wild Bill Hickok, Born’s disdain for authority and hunger for freedom led him to the shadowy world of crime. His turbulent encounters with the Cheyenne and clashes with law enforcement, amidst the chaotic backdrop of Ellsworth, Kansas, paint a vivid picture of a man living on the edge.

    Experience the high-stakes capture of this elusive horse thief as we recount the intense pursuit by Sheriff Alexander Ramsey and Undersheriff Stevens on that fateful day in June 1874. The chase across the prairie culminates in a tense standoff at Oak Creek, revealing the relentless spirit of those who sought to bring Born to justice. We'll also explore the broader historical landscape, including the buffalo hunters' encroachment into indigenous territories and the mystery of Born’s alleged involvement in the Second Battle of Adobe Walls. Tune in for a captivating exploration of a complex figure against the backdrop of the American West's legendary tales and turbulent history.

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    23 mins
  • Unveiling Kansas Forts: Strategic Mastery, Pioneer Struggles, and the Central Plains Indian Wars with Historian Brad Smalley
    Oct 22 2024

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    Ever wondered how military forts without traditional defenses managed to secure the American West during the 1860s? Discover the strategic brilliance behind Kansas forts like Fort Zarah and Fort Larned, as we unravel their critical roles along the Santa Fe and Smoky Hill Trails. Through the voices of historical figures such as Elizabeth Custer, we bring to light the stark living conditions and immense challenges soldiers faced while safeguarding settlers and aiding railroad construction.

    Journey with us into the heart of the Central Plains Indian Wars and witness the turbulent period of Kansas expansion from 1857 to 1868. Through the expert narration of Brad Smalley, we immerse you in the harsh realities experienced by early settlers amidst Indian incursions and the resulting conflicts. Explore the historical significance of the trails, forts, and treaties that defined this era, and enhance your understanding with the accompanying audio book available on Amazon. This episode promises a gripping exploration of the dramatic events that shaped the American West.

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    18 mins