Best Michael King Brad Smalley Podcasts (2025)

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Death Comes for Texas Dick: A Frontier Tale of Justice and Revenge 25:17

2h ago25:17

25:17

Send us a text Step back in time to autumn 1877, where the whispers of history echo beneath the branches of an oak tree at Sawlog Creek. Frank Buskirk and his fellow drovers have just completed their cattle drive from Texas, setting up camp near Dodge City when a stranger named Bob Shaw rides into their midst. What begins as a chilling campfire tal…

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When Indians Attacked: The True Story That Inspired Lonesome Dove 18:52

2d ago18:52

18:52

Send us a text The forgotten heroes who shaped the American West emerge through the harrowing tale of the 1867 cattle drive that would later inspire the beloved "Lonesome Dove" narrative. As northeastern cities expanded in the 19th century, feeding their growing populations became increasingly problematic. The solution came in the form of the Long …

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Hays City 1869: Wild Bill's Deadly Justice 23:10

12d ago23:10

23:10

Send us a text At the razor's edge where civilization meets chaos stood a man whose name struck both fear and awe - Wild Bill Hickok. The sweltering summer of 1869 found Hays City, Kansas transformed into a powder keg of violence where 37 licensed liquor sellers hosted a volatile mix of railroad workers, soldiers, buffalo hunters, and fortune-seeke…

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Wild Bill was more than his guns—he was a man of striking contradictions. 27:04

17d ago27:04

27:04

Send us a text Step into the captivating world of one of the American frontier's most enigmatic figures as we unravel the complex tapestry of James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok. Beyond the legendary gunfighter lies a man of striking contradictions – fearless yet temperamental, courteous yet deadly, flamboyant yet practical. Our deep dive reveals Hicko…

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When Lawlessness Decides Who Lives and Who Dies: A Frontier Murder Story 23:19

18d ago23:19

23:19

Send us a text Before Wyatt Earp and Bat Masterson became synonymous with Dodge City, a more sinister form of "justice" ruled the streets. "The William Taylor Incident" transports you to 1873 frontier Kansas, where the line between law and lawlessness wasn't just blurred—it didn't exist at all. Narrated through the eyes of Herman Fringer, one of Do…

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When Jokes Backfire: The Cautionary Tale of Dodge City's Indian Act 14:30

26d ago14:30

14:30

Send us a text Bat Masterson wasn't just a legendary gunfighter—he may have been the greatest practical joker the American West ever produced. His favorite prank? The notorious "Indian Act," where he and his friends would dress as Native Americans, complete with war paint, to terrorize boastful newcomers in Dodge City. They'd stage mock killings in…

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When Bullets Flew in Dodge: The Plaza Shootout of April 16, 1881 30:57

1M ago30:57

30:57

Send us a text The crack of gunfire shatters the morning air over Dodge City's dusty plaza. A black derby hat bobs above a railroad embankment as bullets fly from every direction. It's April 16, 1881, and Bat Masterson has just stepped off the train and into one of the American frontier's most chaotic yet consequential gunfights. Masterson had retu…

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The Dead Men Who Made Dodge City Infamous Walk Again Through Their Stories 27:56

1M ago27:56

27:56

Send us a text While most Western history fans know the famous lawmen and outlaws who made Dodge City legendary, the actual souls buried on Boot Hill Cemetery have remained largely forgotten—until now. These weren't just nameless bodies; they were real people whose violent deaths created the reputation that still defines Dodge City nearly 150 years…

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Was Dutch Henry Really at Adobe Walls? A Deep Dive into Western Mythology 28:33

1M ago28:33

28:33

Send us a text Step into the contested territory of frontier legend as we continue our deep dive into the life of Dutch Henry Borne, one of the American West's most enigmatic figures. From cavalry scout to notorious outlaw, Borne’s story straddles the line between documented history and frontier mythology—nowhere more prominently than in the contro…

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This Week in the West 1:36

2M ago1:36

1:36

Send us a text Get ready, Western enthusiasts! At Wild West Podcast, we are thrilled to unveil an incredible new partnership with the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum! Together, we're embarking on an adventure that celebrates the untamed spirit and captivating stories of the American West. Join us for the thrilling pioneering of "This Week…

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The Gathering Storm: Tensions Rise in Dodge City 27:53

2M ago27:53

27:53

Send us a text The saloon doors swing open on a sweltering evening in Dodge City as Cimarron George seeks refuge from the oppressive prairie heat. What begins as a simple quest for companionship quickly draws him into the electric atmosphere of the Long Branch Saloon – a microcosm of frontier tension where personal vendettas, political ambition, an…

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Dime Novel Promotional 1:06

2M ago1:06

1:06

Send us a text At the Wild West podcast, we are on an inspiring mission to revive the spirit of the classic dime novel, reimagining it for a modern audience while accounting for inflation in both price and narrative depth. Our goal is to invigorate these captivating stories, ensuring they not only echo the charm of their predecessors but also reson…

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Deadly Moonlight: The Tragic Tale of Dora Hand 24:28

2M ago24:28

24:28

Send us a text A single gunshot in the darkness of a Dodge City night forever altered the course of Western history, claiming the life of beloved performer Dora Hand in a case of tragic mistaken identity. When James "Spike" Kenedy fired into Mayor James Kelly's home on October 4, 1878, he had no idea his vengeful bullets would strike the talented s…

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From Pamphlets to Cultural Phenomenon: The Evolution of 19th Century Dime Novels 5:00

2M ago5:00

5:00

Send us a text Affordable literature changed America forever. In 1860, a publishing revolution began when Beadle's Dime Novels introduced inexpensive, accessible fiction to the masses. For just ten cents, readers could escape into thrilling frontier adventures, border romances, and historical tales set during pivotal moments in American history. Th…

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Wyatt Earp's Early Challenges: Law, Order, and Rivalries in Wichita 23:46

2M ago23:46

23:46

Send us a text What challenges did Wyatt Earp face in his early law enforcement days, and how did he manage to navigate the rough-and-tumble world of the American frontier? Prepare yourself for a riveting exploration of Earp's early career as we dissect his adventures in Wichita, Kansas, during the bustling mid-1870s. From handling animal control t…

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Wild West Lawman: Wyatt Earp's Dodge City Years 30:17

2M ago30:17

30:17

Send us a text Wyatt Earp's transformation from faro dealer to legendary lawman unfolds through his pivotal years in Dodge City, Kansas. Fresh from his stint in Wichita, Earp arrived in 1876 with companion Celia Ann "Maddy" Blaylock and quickly secured a position as Deputy Marshal. His duties extended far beyond apprehending criminals to include mu…

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Unraveling Cheyenne Culture in the 19th Century 18:00

2M ago18:00

18:00

Send us a text Step into the wilderness of the 19th-century Southern Plains, where the Cheyenne people navigated a complex world shaped by their cultural practices, social structures, and the buffalo that defined their existence. In this engaging episode, we delve into the rich culture of Cheyenne life, from their dynamic traditions to the fierce b…

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High-Stakes Showdown in Tombstone 32:55

3M ago32:55

32:55

Send us a text Step into the heart of the Wild West where saloons serve as arenas of both camaraderie and conflict. Join us for an immersive journey into the life of Bat Masterson and the notorious Oriental Saloon in Tombstone, a place where fortunes could be won or lost in a moment. This episode unveils intricacies of historical rivalries as Bat M…

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How George Hoover Founded Dodge City: Vision, Innovation, and Legacy of a Wild West Pioneer 12:08

3M ago12:08

12:08

Send us a text What if one man's entrepreneurial spirit could transform a fledgling frontier outpost into an iconic Wild West town? Join us as we uncover the audacious story of George Merritt Hoover, the Canadian immigrant whose innovative strategies birthed Dodge City on June 17, 1872. Discover how Hoover circumvented military restrictions to open…

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Desperate Paths and Dangerous Choices in the Old West 15:02

3M ago15:02

15:02

Send us a text What if the thin line between law and chaos was a daily path you had to walk? We take you back to the wild streets of 1873 Ellsworth, Kansas, where every choice could make or break a gambler's fortune. This is the poignant tale of Chauncey "Cap" Belden Whitney, a respected lawman and skilled scout known for his steadfast commitment t…

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Wyatt Earp's Wild Ride: Horse Thefts, Gunmen Encounters, and Legal Dramas 28:15

3M ago28:15

28:15

Send us a text What do a controversial horse theft, a prized mowing machine, and encounters with notorious gunmen have in common? They're all pivotal moments in the chaotic and thrilling early life of Wyatt Earp that we unravel in today's episode. This is not just a history lesson—it's a wild ride through legal dramas and survival tactics that defi…

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Tales of Treachery and Trust on the Trail 24:17

3M ago24:17

24:17

Send us a text What happens when the past comes alive around a crackling campfire, and tales of the Wild West blur the lines between legend and reality? As we journey through the trails of the 19th-century cattle drives, you'll find yourself in the company of cowboys as they navigate treacherous paths from South Texas to Sawlog Creek. The tranquili…

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The Making of a Frontier Icon: Wyatt Earp's Early Years 24:19

4M ago24:19

24:19

Send us a text Uncover the extraordinary life of Wyatt Earp, a man whose journey from troubled youth to iconic lawman is nothing short of legendary. Ever wondered how a young boy from Monmouth, Illinois, influenced by a complex father during the Gold Rush, transformed into a symbol of justice in the Wild West? We promise you'll gain insight into th…

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The Timeless Allure of Dodge City: History Preserved, Future Inspired 4:34

4M ago4:34

4:34

Send us a text What if preserving our past could ignite a deeper sense of belonging and continuity within our communities? Uncover the profound impact historic preservation holds for both individuals and society. In today's world, it's crucial that we hold on to the significance of preserving our historic buildings. Landmark conservancy is not just…

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Gunslingers and Legends: Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the Untamed Spirit of 1878 Dodge City 26:52

4M ago26:52

26:52

Send us a text As we explore the captivating story of Doc Holliday and the vibrant community of Dodge City in the late 1800s, we uncover a world filled with excitement, danger, and unforgettable friendships. This episode takes listeners on a remarkable journey that examines the social dynamics and chilling events that shaped the lives of those who …

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Unraveling Dodge City's Dark Side: Heroes, Villains, and Vibrant Chaos 29:26

4M ago29:26

29:26

Send us a text What happens when the isolation of the prairie meets the vibrant atmosphere of Dodge City? Venture into the heart of the Wild West with us as we recount our journey from the open plains to the lively Long Branch Saloon. Here, the warmth of camaraderie mingles with the thrill of adventure, and we encounter intriguing characters like P…

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Unraveling Tombstone: Cowboys, Politics, and Power Struggles 20:05

4M ago20:05

20:05

Send us a text What if the lawlessness of the Wild West was more than just a backdrop—it was the very essence of survival? Step into the dusty streets of Tombstone, where political turmoil and notorious figures like Ike Clanton and Johnny Ringo weave a tangled web of deceit and power struggles. Join us as we recount a riveting stagecoach ride with …

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Doc Holliday: The Dashing Dentist Turned Gunslinger and His Legendary Life in Dodge City 23:19

5M ago23:19

23:19

Send us a text What was life like for a southern dentist who swapped his tools for a six-shooter? Step into the boots of Doc Holliday as we unravel the fascinating tale of his transformation into a legendary gunslinger amidst the whiskey-soaked chaos of Dodge City. Known as the "Queen of the Cowtowns," Dodge City was a vibrant tapestry of adventure…

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Frozen Promises: The Haunting Tale of Sam McGee and Friendship in the Arctic Wilds 9:00

5M ago9:00

9:00

Send us a text What happens when a promise binds you to a chilling task in the heart of the Arctic wilderness? Grab your parka and prepare for an eerie journey as we explore Robert W. Service's iconic poem, "The Cremation of Sam McGee." Join us as we unravel the captivating narrative inspired by Service's real-life friend, Dr. Leonard Sugden, who f…

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Doc Holliday: Southern Charm, Reckless Abandon, and Legendary Myths in the Wild West 28:31

5M ago28:31

28:31

Send us a text Discover the untamed spirit of the Wild West as Mike King takes us on an exhilarating ride through the life of the infamous Doc Holliday. From his early days in Georgia as a dignified dentist to becoming a feared and notorious figure in the American frontier, Holliday's journey is anything but ordinary. Narrated by the talented Brad …

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Promotional: The Antic Tales of Luke McGlue: The Dodge City Prankster 1:51

5M ago1:51

1:51

Send us a text Dive into the uproarious world of "The Antic Tales of Luke McGlue: The Dodge City Prankster" by Michael King! This electrifying blend of fiction and history whisks you back to the raucous early days of Dodge City, Kansas, a place bursting with mischief and mayhem. In this thrilling narrative, the notorious prankster Luke McGlue comes…

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Faith and Redemption: Reverend Ormond W. Wright's Impact on Chaotic Dodge City 17:52

5M ago17:52

17:52

Send us a text Can a man of faith truly make a difference in a town where gunfights and saloons rule the day? Join us on a journey to uncover the extraordinary impact of Reverend Ormond W. Wright, a young minister who dared to challenge the chaotic spirit of Dodge City in the late 1800s. Armed only with unwavering compassion and a mission of unity,…

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Frontier Innovation and the Remarkable Story of Dr. Simpson "The Cowboy Dentist" 23:13

6M ago23:13

23:13

Send us a text 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…

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Charting the Etymology of the Frontier: Legends and Linguistics of Dodge City 19:50

6M ago19:50

19:50

Send us a text 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 hi…

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The Unwritten Code of Dutch Henry Born and the Lawmen Who Pursued Him 30:20

6M ago30:20

30:20

Send us a text 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, …

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Uncovering the Western Cattle Trail: Legendary Drives, Military Forts, and the Rise of Dodge City with Brad Smalley 18:36

6M ago18:36

18:36

Send us a text 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-C…

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Chasing Dutch Henry Born: Rebellion, Infamy, and the High-Stakes Pursuit in the American West 22:30

7M ago22:30

22:30

Send us a text 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 accusa…

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Unveiling Kansas Forts: Strategic Mastery, Pioneer Struggles, and the Central Plains Indian Wars with Historian Brad Smalley 17:50

7M ago17:50

17:50

Send us a text 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 Elizab…

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Celebrating 150 Years of the Western Cattle Trail: Fireside Stories, Musical Heritage, and Frontier Legends with Historian Brad Smalley and Filmmaker Ken Spurgeon 2:39

7M ago2:39

2:39

Send us a text Unearth the history of the American West as we celebrate the momentous 150th anniversary of the Western Cattle Trail. Join us for an unparalleled event scheduled for November 1st and 2nd, 2024, where you'll secure insights into the legendary tales that shaped the frontier. Historian Brad Smalley will captivate you at the newly added …

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Rethinking the Chisholm Trail: Challenging Myths, Revealing History, with Gary and Margaret Kraisinger 11:33

7M ago11:33

11:33

Send us a text Forget everything you thought you knew about the Chisholm Trail. Historians Gary and Margaret Kraisinger have conducted groundbreaking research that challenges the traditional story of this iconic route. Contrary to popular belief, the Chisholm Trail wasn't a singular path from South Texas to Kansas. Instead, it was a vast network of…

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Exploring the XIT Ranch: Texas Panhandle’s Cattle Legacy, Historical Trails, and Environmental Challenges with Dr. Michael Miller 37:34

7M ago37:34

37:34

Send us a text Dr. Michael Miller, a historian with a former career in technology, brings his expertise and passion for the American cattle industry to our latest episode. Discover how a chance encounter with rare historical documents led Dr. Miller down an unexpected path, exploring the history of the XIT Ranch and the Capital Freehold Land and In…

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Cowboys and Campfires: Tales from Dodge City's Past 2:27

8M ago2:27

2:27

Send us a text Gather 'round the campfire, folks! I'm Brad Smalley, your trusty storyteller of the Wild West Podcast. Imagine sitting under the vast Kansas sky, warmed by the crackling flames at Udland Ranch, a historic site steeped in the lore of Dodge City. It's here that we resurrect tales from a time when cowboys roamed and legends were born. I…

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Fairchild's Theatrical Arrival in Dodge City: Bat Masterson's Pranks, Frontier Mischief, and the Legendary 1874 Turkey Hunt 12:30

8M ago12:30

12:30

Send us a text What happens when a flamboyant newcomer meets the unpredictable characters of Dodge City? Fairchild, the not-so-brave Indian fighter, steps into the Wild West with all the theatrical flair of a Broadway show. His garish attire and bold persona quickly make him the talk of the town, but it's Bat Masterson's mischievous streak that tru…

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Uncovering the Western Cattle Trail: From Hidden Kansas Ruts to Nebraska's Frontier Expansion with Gary and Margaret Kraisinger 31:36

8M ago31:36

31:36

Send us a text How did mysterious ruts on a Kansas ranch lead to an expansive journey uncovering the Western Cattle Trail? Join us as we welcome Gary and Margaret Kraisinger, distinguished researchers with a deep passion for American West history. Starting with a curious find in 1967, the Kraisingers embarked on a relentless quest, piecing together…

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The Western Cattle Trail: Cowboys, Iconic Towns, and the Lifeline of the American West 10:07

8M ago10:07

10:07

Send us a text Unravel the cultural and economic tapestry of the American West through the lens of the Western Cattle Trail in our conversation with Brad. Ever wondered how cowboys, cattle, and cow towns like Dodge City became iconic symbols of the West? Brad reveals the trail’s indispensable role in shaping these enduring images, making the Americ…

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Forging the Western Trail: John T. Lytles', 3,500 Cattle, Historic Rest Stops, and the Dugan Family's Frontier Hub 8:29

8M ago8:29

8:29

Send us a text What if a single trail could redefine the cattle industry and shape the American West? Join us as we unravel the extraordinary journey of John T. Lytle, and his 3,500 cattle, an endeavor that led to the creation of the iconic Western Trail. Spanning from Texas to Nebraska, this trail transported six million cattle over a decade, surp…

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The Northern Cheyenne Exodus: Struggle, Resilience, and Cultural Shifts After Little Bighorn 34:01

8M ago34:01

34:01

Send us a text What if the true story of resilience and struggle in American history has been overlooked for too long? Explore the harrowing journey of the Northern Cheyenne tribe after the Battle of the Little Bighorn. From the brutal winter attack on Dull Knife’s village by Colonel Ranald S. McKenzie to the relentless military pursuit leading to …

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Wild Bill's Rise: A Legendary Gunfight, Springfield Tensions, and Media Sensation 34:42

8M ago34:42

34:42

Send us a text What if a single magazine article could immortalize a man into legend? This episode explores how Colonel George Ward Nichols' sensational account in Harper's New Monthly Magazine transformed James Butler Hickok into the iconic "Wild Bill." Through Nichols' eyes, we unveil post-Civil War Springfield, Missouri, and the momentous meetin…

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Preserving the Western Trail: A Historian's Perspective an Interview with Michael Grauer 19:14

9M ago19:14

19:14

Send us a text Ever wondered how the foundations of America were built on "beef and bread"? Join us for an eye-opening journey into the heart of cowboy culture with Michael Grauer, the McCaslin Chair of Cowboy Culture and curator at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Michael's expertise shines as he previews the unique and exciting 15…

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Bravery at Adobe Walls: The Epic Battle, Buffalo Hunters, and Frontier Economy Transformations 31:46

9M ago31:46

31:46

Send us a text Step back in time to the heart of the Second Battle of Adobe Walls, where 28 brave buffalo hunters faced off against a coalition of Native American tribes in an epic struggle for survival. You'll discover the intricate history behind the Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867, designed to safeguard Native lands but ultimately undermined by th…

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Michael King Brad Smalley Podcasts

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