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We're taking you on a time-traveling expedition to the heart of Kansas history with our special guest, Lynn Johnson, Director of the Boot Hill Museum. Lynn not only takes us through the riveting development of the museum, from its inception by the Dodge City J.C.s in 1947 to its ongoing expansion but also immerses us in the rich tapestry of Dodge City's past. The museum's story is as intriguing as the exhibits it houses. From a buffalo hunt exhibit to a push-button reenactment of historical figures and even recreating the 1877 cattle drive environment, the museum spares no detail in bringing the city's history back to life.

Ready to plan your visit? Lynn gives you all the essential details - the opening hours, ticket prices, and the all-inclusive Marshall Pass. Discounts for families and active-duty military personnel also await! To stay in the loop with all the museum's happenings, join their Facebook page and visit their website. The Boot Hill Museum isn't just about history; it's about experiencing it. Get ready for a journey that takes you thousands of years back in time, right from the founding of Dodge City to the present!

To receive additional information on Boot Hill Museum, you can join the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/BootHillMuseum. In addition, you can learn more about your upcoming visit to Boot Hill Museum at www.boothill.org. Links to these Websites are provided in the description portion of this Podcast. 

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Mayor Kelley's: Bear Meat for Christmas is posted once a year during December. The story takes place in 1877, when Dodge City, Kansas, was full of pranksters. The script written and produced by Mike King tells of a mischief-maker named Luke McGlue, who meets up with James Dog Kelly of Dodge City. Mayor Kelly had a tame bear that he called "Paddy," which for a time became the town pet in Dodge City. As the animal grew more substantial and rowdier, the cowboys often tormented Paddy resulting in the bear taking refuge in the bedroom of a local hotel. What happens next can only be described in the title of this podcast. There are intended touches of humor in this story written by Mike King and narrated by Brad Smalley. For more stories from Luke McGlue, go to "The Machiavellian of Dodge City." 

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Can you imagine the chilling sensation of a cold, vigilante mob's gaze on you as they draw their revolvers, ready to end your life in an instant? This episode of our history podcast brings to life the intensity of such a moment, as we recount the infamous William Taylor Incident. Guided by the firsthand account of early settler Herman Fringer, we journey through the lawless streets of early Dodge City, shedding light on its complex history and unforgettable characters.

Ever wondered what pushed men to the brink in the Wild West? Brace yourself as we recount the gripping tale of William Taylor, an unfortunate victim of vigilante justice led by the volatile John Scott. From the formation of Dodge City to the dramatic climax of a violent mob scene, each turn of the story is bound to keep you on the edge of your seat. Experience raw emotions, feel the palpable tension, and step into the shoes of William Taylor as we examine his pleas for mercy and the path that led him to his tragic demise. This is a journey into the heart of the Wild West you won't want to miss.

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Join us as we venture into the past with our special guest, Connie Pinnock, Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Ford County Historical Society. Connie paints a vivid picture of the importance of preserving Fort Dodge, a pivotal piece of history that had a significant role in settling the West and safeguarding travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. Interestingly, Fort Dodge remains the only fort established for this purpose in Kansas that's still waiting to be placed on the National Historic Register. Connie uncovers the potential advantages of this historic recognition, from securing federal funding to sparking renewed interest in preserving the area's rich history.

In the second half of our journey, Connie emphasizes the vital role of community engagement in preserving Fort Dodge. She encourages you to use your voice and reach out to your representatives, ensuring this historic gem does not remain overlooked. Be part of an exciting movement that not only safeguards our shared past but also brings to light the captivating history of Fort Dodge. Discover how you can contribute to the preservation of history and why it matters. Make sure to stay tuned for resources and links to keep you updated on the path to preserving Fort Dodge.

As Dodge City was made by the Santa Fe Railroad, Fort Dodge was made by the Santa Fe Trail. Fort Dodge, established in 1865, was a part of the series of early frontier forts that made the settlement of the west possible by protecting travelers along the Santa Fe Trail. Thus, Fort Dodge has historical significance but has never been comprehensively evaluated for its eligibility to be placed on the National Historic Register. 

Of the three military installations in Kansas established to protect the Santa Fe Trail (including Fort Leavenworth, established in 1827, and Fort Larned, established in 1859), Fort Dodge remains the only fort not protected by Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Unfortunately, this means that Fort Dodge buildings and cultural resources remain unprotected. It is time for Fort Dodge to have its place in history and be protected by the National Parks Service as a National Historic Site. This show features Connie Penick, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Ford County Historical Society and is the Committee chair of the Preservation of Fort Dodge Focus group. To receive updated progress on developments for the preservation of Fort Dodge, you can join the Facebook page at PreserveFtDodge. In addition, you can learn more about the history of Fort Dodge by going to The History of Fort Dodge. 

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

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What if the brutal raids by the Cheyenne Indians on Sapa Valley, northwest Kansas, were not just random acts of violence, but a response to prior attacks on them? Strap in as we take a chilling journey through the blood-streaked pages of history. Discover the tragic events that might have triggered these raids, from the devastating losses suffered at Punished Woman's Fork to an act of retaliation against an assault on the southern Cheyenne at the Battle of Sapa Creek. Through detailed investigations carried out by the Army and the State of Kansas, together with gripping firsthand accounts, we piece together the puzzle of the assaults on settlers and their property, linking them to an assault on a Cheyenne village four years earlier.

The trail doesn't end with the raids. Stay with us as we navigate the chaotic aftermath, starting from the Cheyenne's bewildering flight across Kansas to the contentious debate over their destiny. We bring to light the revolt at Fort Robinson, the fleeting taste of liberty, and the eventual return of the Cheyenne to Indian Territory. And then, the emotional climax: the poignant moment when Cheyenne leader Dolknife boldly stands before a council at the Darlington Reservation, demanding the return of his people to their ancestral lands. A tale of raids, revenge, and redemption awaits – are you ready for the journey?  Wild West Podcast proudly presents Cheyenne Exodus Part III: Raids on Sappa Valley. 

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What if you found yourself right in the middle of the 19th century, amidst battle cries and war whoops, witnessing the Northern Cheyenne, a formidable military group, valiantly evading their pursuers? Are you ready to feel the tension rise as the battle ensues at Punished Woman's Fork? This episode catapults you into the heart of this thrilling historical event, providing you with a ringside view of the Cheyenne Exodus and the unforgettable battles that marked this era.

As the episode unfolds, you will virtually journey through southwest Kansas, where the Cheyenne clashed with local ranchers, adding to the tension that was already palpable in the air. You'll experience the fear seeping into Dodge City as Colonel Lewis assumed personal command following reports of Cheyenne sightings. And then, brace yourself for the standoff at the Punished Woman's Fork of the Smoky Hill River, as the Cheyenne prepared to face off with the soldiers. The anticipation, the suspense - it’s as real as it was back then.

Don’t miss out on our dramatic narration of the Battle at the Canyon Rim, where Colonel Lewis, despite being knocked to the ground, rallied his men to fight. We'll give you an in-depth description of his final moments, his courageous attempt to retreat, and the ultimate victory of the Cheyenne. This episode is more than just a retelling of historical events; it's an immersive experience that transports you back in time, making you a witness to the Cheyenne Exodus. So, are you ready for a gripping walk through history? Wild West Podcast proudly presents Cheyenne Exodus Part II: The Battle of Punished Women’s Fork. 

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Join us for a haunting journey as we unmask the tragic tale of the Cheyenne Exodus. We assure you, by the end of this episode, you will have gained a deep understanding of the grim realities faced by the Cheyennes as they were forced away from their northern homes, their plight at the Cheyenne and Arapaho Agency under the care of John D. Miles, and their desperate pleas to the government which fell on deaf ears. This episode is a stark portrayal of man's inhumanity to man - a story of disease, despair, and death, as 47 Cheyennes succumbed to the harsh conditions of that first winter in Oklahoma.

We also delve into the gripping events leading to the Battle of Turkey Springs. We uncover the history of William Lewis, his West Point education, and his career fighting Native Americans. Prepare yourself to be thrust into the middle of the action as we follow Captain Rendlebrock's command of two cavalry companies on a daunting chase of the Cheyennes. As our narrative unfolds, you will feel the tense atmosphere of the parley that led to no peace, and the ensuing battle that left soldiers without water or ammunition. In addition, we shed light on the significant role of frontier forts like Harker, Wallace, Fort Hays, Lawrence, and Dodge, and their interplay during these perilous times. These forts provided mutual protection and support, becoming vital lifelines during the Cheyenne Exodus.

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

Halloween in Dodge City is posted once a year during the month of October. The podcast tells the story of some of the characters who lived in Dodge City, Kansas, during the early frontier days. The story takes place on October 31, when a fictitious character named Luke McGlue visits a resting site known as Boot Hill. While waiting to administer the Kelly Cure, Luke visits and tells the stories of individual characters buried at Boot Hill. These long-lost souls include Lizzy Palmer, a local prostitute, McGill, who is tracked down and killed by James Hanrahn, and the shooting of Essington, a carpenter who built the first hotel in Dodge City. But the most infamous story told here is about Billy Brooks, the first unofficial marshal of Dodge City.  To learn more about the Luke McGlue stories you can visit The Machiavellian of Dodge City.

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Prepare to immerse yourself in the gripping chronicles of the Battle of Beecher's Island as we follow the captivating journey of 17-year-old Czech emigrant and frontier scout, Sigmund Schlesinger. Experience the intensity of one of frontier history's most ferocious Indian battles, complete with sights, sounds, and raw emotions. Greg Heller, a retired Texas peace officer and founding member of the Kansas Alliance of Professional Historic Performers, graces us with his profound insights into the Texas cowboy and his experiences with the Ellsworth County Historical Society.

The episode doesn't stop at mere battles; we march forward to unravel the audacious tale of four men's survival journey back to Fort Wallace. Barefoot and walking backwards, they outwit their pursuers, providing a testament to the indomitable spirit of a frontier scout. We further delve into the intriguing culture of Native American tribes, highlighting the pivotal role of Dog Soldiers and the indispensable medicine man. This historical deep-dive promises a treasure trove of knowledge and a rollercoaster of emotions. Prepare for a history lesson you'll never forget.

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Unearth the riveting tales and secrets of Fort Dodge as we traverse through its rich historical journey together with Doug Austin, our esteemed guest. This episode promises to broaden your historical perspective as we illuminate the strategic role of Fort Dodge during the Indian campaigns of 1867 to 1869 and 1874 to 1875, its location on the Santa Fe trail, and the harrowing narrative of its construction. Marvel at the resilient labor and resources embedded in the fort's infrastructure, and how, despite regular disruptions from Native American tribes, the fort stood its ground.

Get ready to be awed as we, with Doug Austin, unpack the state of the fort's enduring structures, including the junior officers' quarters and the Custer House. Hear the compelling story of Fort Dodge's long journey to being listed on the National Historic Register and the ironies that hovered around its preservation. Doug shares his relentless efforts to protect this historical treasure and the challenges that came with it. We don't stop there; we also shed light on the health adversities and harsh living conditions that the early dwellers of the fort braved. Let's unravel the legacy of Fort Dodge and its compelling past together.

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.