Wild West Podcast

Send us Fan Mail

Can you imagine stepping into the frosty plains of the wild west, with just the shimmering moonlight for company and the tales of buffalo hunters, railroad workers, and the occasional gamblers to keep you entertained? And all this through the eyes and trials of a young man named Henry Raymond? Well, you're in for a treat! We're about to take you on a riveting journey that traces Henry's path from Illinois to Kansas in 1872, replete with captivating stories of camaraderie, courage, and wit that were hallmark of the early settlers.

Now picture this - Mike McCabe, our very own lovable rascal, in a saloon, facing off with a dead-eye shot named Kirk Jordan! Sounds dangerous, right? But wait until you hear Mike's impulsively brilliant maneuver that saves the day, or rather, the evening. His quick thinking not only diverts a potentially fatal situation but also turns it into a celebratory event, earning Mike a bullet - a well-earned one, that too!

But that's just a slice of the action. This episode takes you beyond the thrill and the laughter. We explore the harsh realities and beautiful moments that made life in the Wild West fascinating to the core. From the welcoming warmth of the Mastersons, the enchanting tunes from Henry's violin, to the sparkling moonlight on the Santa Fe Trail, we've got it all. Strap in, folks. You're in for a thrilling, laughter-filled, and insightful ride into the wild, woolly west. Join us, won't you?

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Step back in time with us, to the raw, challenging days of the Wild West, as we reveal the captivating narrative of Bat Masterson's return to Dodge City in 1875. This isn't just an echo from the past; it's a living, breathing snapshot of a period when courage was currency, and legends were born. Immerse yourself in the charm and chaos of the frontier life, from Masterson's gambling business, the tragic sacrifice of Molly Brennan, to the pulsating Gold Rush in Cheyenne, Wyoming. 

Get a front-row view of the complex law enforcement politics of the iconic Dodge City, as saloon keepers pushed for a hard-nosed marshal to maintain order during the cattle drives, while townsfolk were torn between strict handling of Texans and safeguarding their own. Put yourself in the shoes of Masterson as he intervenes in a tense encounter between the harmless Bobby Gill and Marshall Dagger, leading to a dramatic altercation that forever shaped his destiny. 

The stakes get even higher, as we discuss the chilling aftermath of this confrontation and Masterson's subsequent decision to run for Sheriff of Ford County. Hear about the nerve-wracking events of the night of September 25, 1877, and the heartrending story of Ed Masterson, Bat's brother, whose encounter with gunplay ultimately led to his tragic end. Join us on this journey and get a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the real Wild West where courage, virtue, and vice intermingled, and where legends like Bat Masterson were born.

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Ever wondered how a woman of privilege found herself dancing wild in a saloon of the Old West? Meet Elizabeth Haley, otherwise known as Squirrel Tooth Alice, as we traverse her thrilling journey from a life of luxury to being a dance hall girl alongside Texas Billy Thompson. As we delve into their story, we'll uncover their life on the frontier, the unexpected paths they took, and their subsequent rise to saloon owners in turbulent Abilene, Kansas.

Hold onto your hats as we enter a dramatic face-off involving Billy, local law enforcement, and a fateful shotgun blast that shatters the peace of the Wild West town. As we wade through the murky waters of conflict and consequence, the death of Sheriff Chauncey B Whitney brings about a shocking turn of events that sends Billy fleeing. This captivating tale, teeming with rich history and intrigue, is bound to keep you on the edge of your saddle!

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Are you ready for an intoxicating journey through the lawless frontier of the Wild West? That's exactly what this episode brings as we find ourselves drawn into a world of gun-slinging chaos and bone-chilling ghost stories. Our adventure begins near Sawlog Creek, where we are visited by a lone rider called Bob Shaw who shares an eerie tale of a wrongful lynching that once took place on the very spot where we've set up camp. His chilling narrative sets the tone for the unpredictable and thrilling escapade that lies ahead.

Our journey continues as we traverse the heart of the Wild West and head to the raucous Lone Star Dance Hall. The night unfolds into a high-stakes drama as Bob, now heavily intoxicated, gets into a heated confrontation with the bartender. The situation escalates when Texas Dick, Bob's elusive friend, is thrust into the chaos. With a gunfight looming, we find ourselves in the thick of the action, battling our nerves while trying to diffuse the tension. This episode is a rollercoaster ride of suspense and intrigue, painting a vivid picture of the unpredictability and danger that marked life on the frontier. So saddle up and join us on this Wild West adventure. If you liked this story, you may want to purchase Cattle Drives: The Days That Tried Men's Soul by Mike King. 

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Are you ready for a shot of adrenaline? Strap in, as we rocket back through history to the volatile era of the Cheyenne Indian Wars. From the first sparks of conflict in the Cheyenne Campaign of 1857 to the chilling Sheridan Winter Campaign of 1868, we're about to rip the lid off the stories that shaped the American West. It's a wild ride filled with buffalo stampedes, tough negotiations, and gripping battles, so buckle up!

Imagine trudging across the Santa Fe Trail, your heart pounding as a massive buffalo herd stampedes alongside. Envision the terrain under your boots changing from rugged paths to sun-kissed grasslands, the adrenaline rush of the journey pulsating through every fiber of your being. Our guide for this trek is none other than Colonel Edwin Vos Sumner, leading his regiment through raw wilderness, capturing the essence of the era with stark realism.

As our journey nears its climax, we find ourselves caught in a nerve-wracking face-off with a large Cheyenne war party. Listen, as we dissect Bull Sumner's strategic maneuvers during the Battle of Solomon Fork and the aftermath that saw him extending a hand of compassion to his wounded soldiers. This is raw history, up close and personal, as recounted by 17-year-old Robert E. Peck, a recruit in the 1st Cavalry Regiment. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through the past that's as thrilling as it is enlightening!

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Hold on to your cowboy hats as we set off on a galloping journey back to the wild West - the birthplace of the rodeo. We're venturing back to the mid-1800s, where it all began with Spanish missionaries, Vecarro culture, and the early cowboys whose fierce rivalry sparked the creation of what we now know as professional rodeo. Discover how their roping and riding contests for bragging rights transformed into a recognized sport, with a nod to pioneers like William F. Cody and his entertainment shows, and William Pickett's innovative bull-wrestling technique, bulldogging.

We'll also steer you through the various events that have become hallmarks of the professional rodeo - from the rough and tumble of saddle bronc riding and bull riding to the heart-pounding excitement of team roping and barrel racing. Listen as we dissect each event, revealing how their roots lie deep in traditional ranching practices. As we hit the 20th century, join us for a rewind of the first annual Dodge City Rodeo in 1939, and a salute to influential women like Annie Oakley and Mabel Strickland Woodward, who paved the way for women in the sport. Get ready for a wild ride, partners! Purchase Cattle Drives: The Days That Tried Men's Souls

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready for an in-depth journey into the heart of Dodge City's rich history with our special guest, Tim Wenzl, distinguished for his significant contributions to the community and author of the book Historic Buildings and Landmarks of Dodge City. We will peel back the layers of time in this iconic town, from its exclusive heritage to the impressive multi-million dollar project to invigorate the downtown district. Not only will we traverse its architectural gems like the Hardesty House, but we're also dedicated to discussing the preservation efforts that have kept the spirit of Dodge City alive.

Peppered with fascinating stories and insights, our exploration continues as we delve into the history of the Lora-Locke Hotel, the luxury hostelry of yesteryears, and the Chuck Beeson Theater, a notable entertainment hub in the city. As we wander through the Hoover Pavilion and uncover the captivating tales of the Mueller Schmidt House, the Home of Stone, and even the unique Bat Masterson statue, you'll realize that Dodge City is more than just a town - it's a living testament of time. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture lover, or just curious about Dodge City, this episode will keep you intrigued and enlightened. You can tune in now for an unforgettable historical exploration. Link to Historic Buildings & Landmarks of Dodge City

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Brace yourself for an exciting journey as we take a riveting plunge into the icy depths of military history, focusing on the winter campaign of 1868 and 1869 in Indian territory. Our adventure begins with the Custer's 7th US Cavalry and the 19th Kansas Volunteer Cavalry’s unyielding march across chilling winds and treacherous rivers, to establish a new supply camp. We paint a vivid picture of their determination, their confrontations with the Native Americans, as well as their recreational buffalo hunts. We even recount General Sheridan's chilling tale of being trapped in a blizzard!

The adventure continues as we delve into the establishment of Camp Supply and subsequent winter quarters, sharing tales of the back-breaking work of cutting trees for building materials and digging trenches. You'll witness the strategic genius of Major Elliot and General Custer as they boost their soldiers' morale with a dash of whiskey! We also recount the construction of Camp Supply, demonstrating the unwavering resolve of the soldiers, and end with a thrilling encounter of what the Osage Indians believed to be the ghost of an Arapaho warrior. Strap in for this frosty ride into the past as we spotlight the tenacity of the brave soldiers who faced the biting cold and relentless battles to carve out fortresses in the wilderness.

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Unearth the shocking details of the Kansas Frontier Conflict as we traverse its harrowing terrain in this riveting discussion with Jeff Broome and Brad Smalley. Brace yourself as we delve into the horrifying Solomon raids of August 1868 and the dreadful fate of the little Bell sisters at the hands of Black Kettle's band. The Indian Depredation Claims reveal the chilling accounts of Elizabeth Bell and her young daughter, Ellen - tales that will leave you with a profound understanding of the trials endured by these settlers.

The aftermath of these terrifying raids is no less chilling. We broach the heart-wrenching losses suffered by the Bell family, the Thompsons, and the Smiths. Hear the distressing experiences of Anna Morgan and Sarah White in captivity and the Baertoche family's dreadful ordeal. It's a sobering reminder of the brutality of the frontier and the grim reality of life in the Kansas plains during this violence-riddled period.

Finally, we sift through Alfred Sully's controversial report from August 19th at the Schermerhorn Ranch, a document that had a ripple effect on future military operations within the Indian Territory. We shed light on Mrs. Bacon's sworn statement and the audacious actions of the three Indians who attacked her cabin on August 10th. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of this turbulent historical time through these stories and accounts. Join Jeff and Brad as we walk the path of our Kansas Frontier Conflict series, arming you with insights and perspectives that will reshape your understanding of this tumultuous period.

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included. 

Send us Fan Mail

Prepare to be transported back to the tumultuous times of 1868 as we bring you the heart-racing tale of two courageous soldiers, Corporal  Leander Herron, and Private Patrick O'Boyle. Under the ominous cloak of night, Herron and O'Boyle faced off against a circle of Indians to secure the post mail from Fort Larned, in an encounter that would etch their names in history. This riveting story takes you through their strategic maneuvers, awe-inspiring bravery, and a pulse-pounding escape that led to Corporal Herron being awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.

But that's not all, folks! The second part of our episode brings history to life with a sit-down old recording with the man himself, Corporal Leander Herron, then an 85-year-old war veteran. The only man in Nebraska to hold the Congressional Medal of Honor, Herron paints a vivid picture of that fateful mission with O'Boyle. Listen in as he recounts their daring operation, the choices they had to make, and the valorous act that saved wounded men from attack. This is a conversation that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat, filled with tales of strategy, survival, and courage in the face of overwhelming odds. Don't miss out!

Support the show

If you'd like to buy one or more of our fully illustrated dime novel publications, you can click the link I've included.