Picture this: it's 1858, a rugged miner's camp is bustling with activity, and a piano mysteriously shows up just in time for Christmas Eve. Oh, the chaos and hilarity that ensues! Journey with us as we follow our hearty miners wrestling with setting up the instrument and scrambling to find a player. This isn't just a piano; it's a beacon of camaraderie and festive spirit, shining through their rough and tumble exterior. Tune into our special presentation of 'A Miner's Christmas Carol' by Samuel Davis, edited by Mike King, and let Brad Smalley's narration whisk you away to a comical yesteryear. But wait, there's more! Can you imagine discovering a long-lost stranger on a Christmas Eve, a man who disappeared with a hefty sum of money? That's exactly what happens to Goskin and Driscoll, our beloved characters from the miner's tale. Embark on a captivating quest with them as they navigate through old grudges and current suspicions, all the while unearthing the essence of Christmas, tradition, and memory. Their Christmas wish extends not only to themselves but to you, our dedicated listeners. So, grab a hot cup of cocoa, find a comfy chair, and get ready to be immersed in a mesmerizing world of twists and turns. Trust us, you won't want to miss the end of this tale. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Prepare to be transported back to the Kansas plains of 1872! You'll journey alongside Richard Irving Dodge, a soldier stationed at the heart of the Wild West, as he recounts the awe-inspiring sight of a massive buffalo herd numbering in the hundreds of thousands. The vast prairie comes alive as he shares tales of life at Fort Dodge and his interactions with Robert M. Wright. But life on the plains is not all breathtaking scenery and peaceful coexistence. The episode takes a dramatic turn as we recount the fiery confrontation between Captain Reif and Captain Moore at Fort Dodge, followed by the chaos instigated by a drunken Lieutenant Turner. As we navigate through these tales, we uncover the struggles of maintaining order among soldiers and the controversies surrounding alcohol consumption. The episode concludes with a look at the aftermath as we discuss the decision to establish a township near the fort and the impending court-martial charges. Listeners of Wild West Podcast should tune in for this riveting journey into the untamed life of soldiers in the Kansas plains during the 1870s. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Settle in, saddle up and join us as we ride alongside George W Brown and Prairie Dog Morrow, two audacious characters who guide us through the exhilarating era of buffalo hunting in the Great Plains of the 1870s. Hear how they mastered the art of buffalo hunting and their thrilling adventures from the Dakotas to Montana. Prairie Dog even reveals his unique prairie dog catching technique, an unexpected skill that surprisingly comes in handy on the frontier. Our journey doesn't stop at hunting. Just when you think it’s all buffalo hides and prairie dog tales, we introduce the whiskey saga at Fort Dodge. Hear the inside story of why a liquor ban was implemented, how it stirred chaos, and birthed a new underground business just outside the fort’s walls. Thriving despite the ban, these rogue whiskey sellers turned the frontier into the wild west we all know. But remember, every party has a hangover. We'll share the chilling story of a young man named Langford, whose life took a fateful turn after a perilous night of drinking. Finally, listen to the heart-tugging story of Langford's grueling recovery from five gunshot wounds, an aftermath of a drunken brawl. Through this, we explore the dire repercussions of alcohol use, the role of friendship, and the extraordinary resilience of the human body. This isn't just history; it's an adventure, a cautionary tale, and a celebration of the human spirit all rolled into one riveting episode. So grab your headphones, your favorite drink (responsibly, of course) and get ready for a wild ride through the plains of the 1870s! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Imagine the southern plains once teeming with 50 million buffaloes, a resource so vast it was considered inexhaustible. Then, picture it transforming into a desolate, putrid desert, the aftermath of a rampant hunting spree fueled by the discovery of buffalo leather by tanneries worldwide, the westward migration of war veterans and the establishment of railroads. This episode takes you on an engrossing journey through this pivotal, and often ignored chapter of American history. We'll discuss how the pursuit of quick wealth led to the unintentional theft of the Indians' livelihood and the severe disruption of natural replenishment, leaving the plains a wasteland and the once-thriving buffalo population in shambles. Fast forward to 1872, when the big hunt left the Arkansas buffalo herd in ruins, and hunters began encroaching on the Indian hunting grounds in southwestern Kansas. We'll recount riveting tales of their encounters with the military and the shocking scale of devastation through Lieutenant Colonel Dodge's eyes. The devastation was so profound that the plains, once bustling with buffalo life, were now filled with a sickening stench from the myriad of carcasses left to rot. The episode continues with a deep dive into the Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867 and its implications for the buffalo hunting grounds. Join us as we shed light on this significant period of American history, a time of rapid change and devastating loss. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Get ready to hitch a ride to the wild frontier with tales from the legendary George W Brown, also known as Hoodoo Brown. Born under the Missouri skies in 1847, he invites us into his past, from fighting in the Union Army to life as a bullwacker, hauling wood for the government. His trailblazing tales are packed with excitement, danger, and the raw reality of frontier life. With every twist and turn, from dodging wild Texas steers to navigating treacherous wagon trips, we're right there with him. And the journey doesn't end there! The second half of our adventure features Jack Stilwell, a scout handpicked by Colonel George A Forsythe for a special operations unit. He takes us from being recruited at Fort Hays to the throes of intense battles, leaving us hanging on his every word. Jack’s recollections of the Battle at Beecher's Island will make your heart pound and your mind spin. Then, it's back to George Brown as he teams up with Buffalo Bill and other scouts on a mission to clear the Republican region of Indians. These unmissable chronicles from the frontier will have you yearning for the wide open plains and the echo of cattle drives in the distance. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Strap yourselves in folks, we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the wild and gritty tales of the legendary Wild West! Ever heard of the infamous Bat Masterson? Well, this episode is all about his equally intriguing brother, James Masterson. We shine a spotlight on his tumultuous life, culminating in his pivotal role in the Battle of the Plaza and the exhilarating Battle of Ingalls. This episode is not just a history lesson, it's a thrilling ride that will transport you back in time, making you feel like you're right in the heart of the action! Are you ready to face the Doolin-Dalton Gang with us? Fasten your seatbelts as we delve into the notorious lives of outlaws like Bill Doolin, Bitter Creek Newton, Arkansas Tom Jones, Dan Clifton, Tulsa Jack, and George Redbuck Whiteman. Feel the tension rise as we relive the dramatic escape of George Bitter Creek Newcombe from a hostile Comanche band and his subsequent face-off with deputy Dick Speed in Ingalls. The adrenaline doesn't stop there! We intricately weave the narrative of the intense gun battle that ensued, with James Masterson and the townsfolk caught in the crossfire. Finally, we dissect the heart-stopping gunfight in the tiny town of Ingalls, Oklahoma. Picture the scene - Arkansas Tom, trapped, his comrades escaping amidst a hailstorm of bullets. Experience the desperation of Doolan's frantic search for wire cutters for their escape. Feel the dread as Arkansas Tom watches the dust settle after his friends' escape, left alone in the deafening silence following the chaos. This episode is a wild rollercoaster of gripping narratives, fraught with danger, suspense, and the raw, unfiltered reality of the Wild West. So, hold onto your hats; this will be an unforgettable ride! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Ever thought about how life was in the Wild West? Imagine, the rawness of survival against the elements, the adrenaline of buffalo hunts, and the intrigue of lawmen and outlaws! I'm inviting you to saddle up and join us on this journey as we live vicariously through the life of our protagonist, Josiah Wright Mooar, a young man discovering the thrills and perils of the frontier. Our tale begins in Fort Hays, Kansas, where Josiah sets up a buffalo hunting team with a seasoned hunter, James White. From acquiring a wagon and camping supplies to the exhilarating hunt itself, we are right there with them. We encounter the mysterious figure of Thomas Nixon, who offers us an exciting opportunity to buy a buffalo hide business. But as a fierce storm threatens our hunt and a stampede sets off, tension rises. How will Josiah and Jim navigate these sudden threats? Through this captivating narrative, we uncover the vibrant life of the Wild West, the frontiersman and Buffalo hunters who shaped it and the crucial role they played in frontier survival. Moreover, we delve into the techniques used in buffalo hunting and how these adapted to the changing environment. So, get ready for a riveting exploration of the Wild West's legacy, one that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Are you ready to step back in time with us to the age of the American frontier? This episode unfurls the tapestry of the life of the renowned Indian scout, Moses Milner, more famously known as California Joe. His tale, as wild and untamed as the frontier he called home, begins with his youthful years of trapping and trading with friendly Indians. We follow his path to the height of his storied career guiding for the US Army. From his service as a trailblazer for the Donovan expedition during the Mexican War, his marriage at the tender age of 21, his explorations to Oregon, and his associations with legendary figures like Kit Carson and Wild Bill Hickok, we delve into the depths of this captivating character. Our journey through Joe's life marches on through the rugged terrains of Wyoming’s Big Horn Mountain Country where he served under General George Crook, and to the Powder River Expedition against the fierce Cheyenne under General Ronald S McKenzie. His thrilling life, filled with adventure, bravery, and intrigue, drew to a close at Fort Robinson, Nebraska, in a fatal confrontation. His legacy, however, lives on, symbolized by his burial with full military honors at Fort MacPherson National Cemetery in Nebraska. Join us as we weave together the threads of California Joe's life and the richness of the frontier era. This is an episode that will leave you with a profound understanding of the scouts who played a pivotal role in shaping the history of America. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Hold onto your hats as we whisk you away on a wild adventure with the charismatic Luke McGlue! Imagine a hidden backroom in the Lady Gay Saloon, brimming with peculiar jars and the air thick with anticipation. It’s a laughable escapade until the lights go out and bullets start to fly! If that’s not enough to get your pulse racing, we then introduce you to two intriguing doctors from around the globe who’ve arrived to hold a private lecture and examination. In the second half, things get political with Luke McGlue’s radical program aimed at shifting the balance of power in the town. The Luke McGlue Special High Society Training Program isn't just a mouthful; it's a game changer, designed to hand the City Council and the new sheriff the reins. As we dissect the implications of this, you'll also find out how you, the townsfolk, could make a difference. The final twist? A local minister embroiled in a case of horse thievery! Prepare for a roller coaster of an episode packed with humor, chaos, and a sprinkle of mischief. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Ever wondered what happens when a charming mischief-maker crosses paths with a hapless cigar salesman in the wild, wild west? Buckle up and get ready for a roller-coaster of an adventure as we follow the delightful exploits of Luke Maglue, our very own Kansas troublemaker, and Saddler, our unwitting cigar merchant, in a town that's as mysterious as it is dusty. We promise you'll be hooked, tickled and utterly enthralled as you navigate a world of stolen cigars, saloon shenanigans, and empty streets. Our story unfolds in the Lady Gay Saloon, a lively hotspot for those looking for a good smoke and a better tale. Just when Saddler thinks he’s in for a normal day of cigar selling, he’s swept up in a whirlwind of intrigue and hilarity, with Luke at the very center. This episode is a riotous romp through saloons and sheriff offices, filled with suspense, humor, and unexpected twists that’ll keep you guessing. So, pull up a chair, light up a cigar, and join us for this enthralling journey into the heart of the old west. And remember, things aren't always as they seem. Even in the wild, wild west! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Ever wondered how a man named Luke McGlue transformed the wild west of Dodge City with his infectious laughter and pranks? Or what happens when a pet bear named Patty runs amok in a hotel and ends up as the main course for Christmas dinner? Buckle up, as we take a ride into the humorous and heroic tales of Dodge City, Kansas. We kick off the journey with the story of Luke McGlue, a notorious jester in the Dodge City gang, who used laughter as an antidote to the grim faces of frontiersmen, doctors, and even gangsters. Hear about his witty exploits, his Illinois roots, and the reason behind his nickname, 'Buster'. Then, we shift gears to a hilarious, yet heartwarming anecdote of Mayor Kelly and his pet bear, Patty. Learn about Patty's disastrous hotel adventure, and how it led to a rather unconventional community feast on Christmas. The wild west wasn't all laughs though. Sit tight as we narrate a nerve-wracking encounter with a man dressed in a black duster, wielding a bloodied revolver, and the quick-witted actions that saved the day. Marshal Larry Dager, a hero in his own right, swings into action with the force of a pint of whiskey in a poker game. It's a story of courage and quick thinking that will transport you back to the wild days of Dodge City. So, come on, let's saddle up and ride into this adventurous past together! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Have you ever wondered what pranks looked like in the Wild West? Well, imagine being a naive, greenhorn man stepping into one set up by the seasoned regulars at the Dodge House. This episode whisks you into a wild adventure, spun from the tale of a man who fancied himself a lady killer being played by the cunning men of Buffalo City. Notably, a place where men far outnumber women, sparking a unique dynamic. Get ready to go further, as we peel back the layers of the intriguing characters we've come across in our books, 'A Man in a Black Derby Hat' and 'Tales of the Frontier Return of the Great Hunters'. Discover the motivations and experiences that shaped these Wild West folks, and how startlingly familiar they might seem, resonating with our own realities. So pour a glass of whiskey, settle in, and let's explore together the gritty, colorful saga of the Wild West. Just don't forget - the tales are thrilling, but the truth is even wilder. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Prepare yourself for a bone-chilling journey through the unchartered territories of the Wild West! Get ready to feel the sweat on your brow and the grit in your teeth as we traverse from Adobe Walls to Chicken Creek, recounting tales of confrontation, courage, and survival straight from the horse's mouth, Joe Plumber. We kick things off with the horrifying recount of Dave Dudley and Tommy Wallace's brutal deaths, caused by an unexpected Indian uprising. Listen as Plumber narrates their grim fate, and the admirable strength shown by Hannah Olds, a cook and boarding house owner, in the face of such adversity. The tension escalates as we return to Adobe Walls after burying our fallen comrades, only to discover more trouble brewing. We try to keep our spirits high, but the sound of a loud crack sends chills down our spine, leading us to a precarious situation that needs immediate attention. We wrap up with an intriguing exploration of a Daybreak Settlement before the attack of 700 Indians, offering a detailed look at its unique structures. Join us on this adrenaline-filled ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Based on true accounts of the first battle of Adobe Walls listeners immerse in a heart-stirring narrative of the Wild West as we sit by the campfire with Joe Plummer, a man as distinctive as the tales he shares. Plummer, a vibrant storyteller adorned with tattoos and piercings, spins a compelling yarn of Kit Carson's surprise attack on the Comanche and Kiowa winter village. We hold our breath alongside Carson's troops, huddled in the bitter cold of dawn, as they face the daunting enormity of their enemy. Plummer transports us right into the heart of the battlefield, as we vicariously experience the tensions, the fears, and the raw courage exposed in the face of a formidable foe. Reflecting the glow of the campfire, Plummer's storytelling illuminates the bravery of Carson's brigade, the youths who daringly charged into battle even before formal orders were given. Feel the adrenaline rush as he describes Carson's battery of cannons, the unexpected retreat of the Indian army, and the eerie sight of an abandoned village. Plummer's narration culminates in an awe-inspiring image of a thousand warriors rallying under their chiefs, against a backdrop of a sprawling village of lodges. The narrative grips you, pulling you into the vibrant tapestry of a bygone era. In the aftermath of a grueling battle, we explore the counter-attack led by Chief White Bear and Carson's audacious decision to press on, despite being outnumbered. Plummer's haunting rendition of the First Battle of Adobe Walls serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war. This episode is more than a mere retelling of historical events - it's an homage to the power of oral tradition in preserving our past and evoking the deepest human emotions. We invite you to join us on this journey, where valor, strategy, and survival intertwine in a dance as old as time itself. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Imagine strolling into a saloon and locking eyes with a man whose hatred for you is palpable. Welcome to a tumultuous evening in a Wild West Texas settlement, Mobeetiy, where confrontations brew, and gunfire could break out at any moment. In this high-stakes setting, we revisit my conflicted relationship with the despised Corporal Melvin King, whose return to town sends shockwaves of fear among the locals. Gracing this episode is Billy Dixon, a seasoned buffalo hunter and a friend who unearths a chilling prophecy of King's brewing revenge. This predicament forces me to make a life-altering decision that could either mark me as a victim or a victor. Brace yourself for a heart-wrenching tale of love and sacrifice that unfolds amid this tension. In this episode, we explore the depth of Bat Masterson's connection with the captivating Molly Brennan, whose actions prove that love knows no bounds or fear. Get ready to be moved by a real-life love story that outshines any fictional romance, where a woman's love is tested against the harsh realities of the Old West. The climax of this episode will rip your heart out, as Molly makes the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to stand in the line of fire for Bat Masterson. This tragic twist of fate binds us forever, leaving Masterson indebted to her in ways words cannot express. Tune in to experience a rollercoaster of emotions as love and danger intertwine in an unforgettable saga of the Wild West. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Hold onto your hats, folks! Ever wondered how a dance hall girl can set off a chain of explosive events in the Wild West? Let's journey back to 1879 and step into the infamous Lady Gay Dance Hall. It's here, amidst the gamblers and dance hall girls, that we find ourselves in the middle of a deadly love triangle. In this whirlwind of attraction and tension, we'll introduce you to Maddie Loving, the object of desire of two very dangerous men. The drama unfolds when Maddie's husband, Frank Loving, storms into the Lady Gay dance hall, hell-bent on rescuing his wife from the unwelcome advances of Levi Richardson. The confrontation is averted, but the peace is short-lived when news reaches us of trouble brewing at the Long Branch Saloon. It's in this iconic saloon that the face-off culminates, the air heavy with tension as Richardson and Loving draw their guns. In this deadly dance, friendships are tested, secrets are revealed, and the harsh reality of life in Dodge City comes to light. We culminate our episode with the infamous gunfight at the Long Branch Saloon, bearing witness to the fatal consequences of this love triangle. Amidst the swirling dust and chaos, Deputy Duffy and Marshal Bassett attempt to restore order, revealing the shocking truth about the relationship between Richardson and Loving. As we wrap up this tale of attraction, betrayal, and gunfire, we leave you with a taste of the grit and drama that shaped the lore of Dodge City. Join us for this riveting recount of a love triangle that turned deadly in the heart of the Wild West. Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Get ready to venture into the gritty underbelly of post-Civil War Kansas with us, as we expose the chilling tales of the state's most notorious outlaws. We're dusting off an article from the Kansas Magazine, a deep-dive into the state's darkest past, co-authored by our very own producer Mike King. Guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, we lay bare the unfiltered realities of the March Madness-style showdown where each criminal's deeds are weighed, debated, and ranked to identify the worst of the worst. Stirring up the shadows, we go one-on-one with the chilling narratives of Jim Curry and Henry Brown, two names that struck fear into the heart of Kansas. Discover the lawless journey of Curry, a man whose life of crime even saw him cross paths with Maurice Barrymore, patriarch of the famed Barrymore family. Then, prepare for the gut-wrenching tale of Henry Brown whose shocking betrayal of his badge made him one of Kansas's most despised figures. From their involvement in the Civil War to their own personal demons, we strip back the legends to reveal the men behind these infamous outlaws. Click Here to Subscribe to Kansas Magazine Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Get ready for a chilling walk down memory lane as we take you on a ghostly journey through Dodge City with our mischievous guide, Luke McGlue. Picture this: it's Halloween night, and the usually bustling streets are eerily silent. Luke has a mission - to administer the infamous Keely Cure to a stubbornly intoxicated judge. Sounds simple, right? But things aren't always as they seem in this legendary Wild West town. In the second act, we take a haunting detour to the city's graveyard with our special guest, historian Brad Smalley. Uncover the tragic tales of Lizzie Palmer and J.M. Essington, victims of the city's lawless past. Ever wondered about the spectral figure of Billy Brooks, the first appointed Marshal of Dodge City? Hear a captivating recount of his life and the mystery surrounding his ghostly presence. And don't worry, we won't leave you in suspense. Stick around after the show as Brad, and I unravel the intriguing blend of truth and tales that make up this riveting episode. So, are you ready for a wild ride through Dodge City's shadowy past? Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

Step right up, folks, and time travel with us back to the wild and unpredictable days of Dodge City in the 1870s. Picture a lawless town desperate for order, a vigilante mob, and a tragic tale of an innocent man named William Taylor. Brace yourself as we recount the events leading up to his death, the formation of the vigilance committee, and the notorious Tom Sherman's induction into the vigilante honorarium. You will feel the tension as we explore the aftermath of Charles Burns' shocking death and the pivotal moment when Dodge City recognized its dire need for law enforcement. Fast-forward to the explosive confrontation between William Taylor and John Scotty Scott. Hear the echoes of gunshots in the dusty streets, feel the palpable fear as Taylor narrowly escapes a deadly altercation, setting off a wave of panic across the town. The drama intensifies as we delve into the conflict between Fort Dodge and the town, the illegal bar run by Mr. Hoover, and the consequential establishment of the town's legal status. Join us on this gripping journey into the past, packed with drama, tension, and a healthy dose of Wild West lawlessness. You won't want to miss it! Support the show Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books

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 Return of the Great Hunters Cattle Drives Website Legends of Dodge City Website Order Books