The Last Eleven Days of Earl Durand

In this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Elizabeth Suddeth, Associate Dean for Special Collections at the University of South Carolina. They discuss the library’s rare comic book acquisitions, the legacy of comic artist Vic Carrabotta, and the creation of a graphic novel about Earl Durand. The episode highlights the importance of preserving comic history and the unique stories behind the collections.

"It was so exciting because we were actually able to put on a little exhibit and also to have Vic on campus to speak."

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In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Michael Weisenberg about curating an exhibit on comic artist Vic Carrabotta at the University of South Carolina. Discover Vic’s journey from Marvel comics to graphic novels, and learn why preserving comic book history matters.

"I'd like to think that rare comic books are among the rare books of the future, and if we don't preserve them now, who else will?"

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In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Lynnie Fass about her journey into folk music and activism, inspired by her husband, late-night radio host Bob Fass. Through stories about the song "The Ballad of Earl Durand," Lynnie discusses how music and radio shaped their views on protest, community, and standing up to injustice. The episode also highlights Bob Fass’s legacy as a pioneering broadcaster who gave a voice to dissent and preserved the spirit of resistance.

"If it just gives one person out there comfort to know that they're not alone, sitting in their room, listening to the radio…or somebody who has the courage to stand up against an unjust regime of any sort, it's worth it."

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In this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Rick Stonehouse, son of Mel Stonehouse, about the legendary figure Earl Durand and the culture of storytelling in Wyoming. Rick shares memories of his father’s colorful tales, the realities behind the myths of the American West, and the ethical code of hunters and outfitters. The conversation explores how local history, personal experience, and community values shape the stories passed down through generations, offering a candid look at the intersection of myth and reality in Western American life.

“Here's a story that most wouldn't believe. It included all the killing and the blood and the guts and the glory.”

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

In this episode, Jerred Metz discusses the true story behind Earl Durand and the mysterious journey of a deputy sheriff’s badge. Through a series of uncanny coincidences, the badge weaves its way through lawmen, outlaws, and pivotal moments in a dramatic manhunt. Join us as we explore how fact can be stranger than fiction, and how a simple symbol of authority became central to a tale of pursuit, identity, and fate in the American West. 

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In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Dr. Rob Thomas, a geology professor at the University of Montana. They discuss the massive Deep Lake landslide in Wyoming. Dr. Thomas explains its geological significance, comparing its scale to other major North American slides, and describes how the landscape was shaped by glacial activity and catastrophic rock movement. Dr. Thomas also shares insights into the connection between the landslide, local history, and the story of Earl Durand. 

"What we can say for certain is that it (Deep Lake landslide) happened after the glacial ice retreated because the slide came into the glacial valley. That's why the lake is so deep, because the valley was carved out by ice."

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In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Artist Brian Timmer about the creation of his mural depicting Earl Durand. The conversation covers Brian’s artistic journey, the inspiration and challenges behind the mural, and the impact of Durand’s story on the community. The episode also touches on the collaborative process behind a graphic novel about Durand and the importance of art in preserving local history.

"The mural almost appeared out of nowhere to a lot of people because it stops you in your tracks..it's a statement.”

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Dave Reetz about the dramatic last eleven days of Earl Durand, and how local and national media (newspapers, radio, newsreels, and even Hollywood) shaped public perception of Durand’s story, often sensationalizing events for headlines. They reflect on the impact of these events on the local community, the role of technology like telephones and radio in spreading news, and how Durand’s story became part of American folklore, even inspiring movies. The conversation also highlights personal connections to the people involved and the lasting legacy of the events in local memory.

"The funeral director said there was a time before Earl and there was a time after Earl, and that I think was probably true and it still exists today. I think you found even coming back all these years, there's still various emotions. They carry on through generations, even through the families or the friends of families."

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html

In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Milward Simpson about his grandfather, Milward Simpson and his family’s role in the dramatic events surrounding Earl Durand’s last days in Wyoming. 

Through stories and reflections, the conversation highlights the Simpson family’s leadership, community values, and lasting impact on Wyoming’s history and culture.

"It was part of the mysterious, magical lore of the Simpson family that captivated all of us when we were young and still does today.” - Milward Simpson

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In this episode, Jerred Metz discusses the personality of Earl Durand. He was a mountain man. Earl was a sharpshooter. And he was a prankster. His legendary
sense of humor comes as a surprise. In this episode, we hear firsthand
stories from friends and locals about Durand’s memorable pranks, his uncanny marksmanship, and the lighter side of the man who spent his last
days as an outlaw.

Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html