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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 Upland Ranch Fireside Stories event on October 31st, sharing enchanting stories of Dodge City and cowboy life by the fire's glow. Discover how you can immerse yourself in this lively historical journey and claim your spot before the October 23rd deadline.

As our grand celebration concludes, don't miss the screening of "Home on the Range" at Boot Hill Museum on November 2nd. This special film explores the rich legacy of the iconic anthem of the West, spotlighting its roots in Smith County, Kansas. Stay for the engaging panel discussion with the film's director, Ken Spurgeon, and special guests Mitch Holtus and Dean Holtus, sure to provide profound insights into the music and culture of the American West. Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable look into the stories and melodies that have defined our heritage.

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Prepare to be transported to the wild and mischievous streets of 1877 Dodge City, where history and legend collide in a Halloween tale like no other. Our featured guest, the acclaimed historian Brad Smalley, guides us through the shadowy alleys of folklore, bringing to life the notorious pranks and ghostly apparitions that haunt this frontier town's past. Discover the mythical mischief of Luke McGlue—a character as infamous as he is fictional—whose legendary antics are said to have left an indelible mark on Dodge City lore. You'll not only meet Luke but also encounter the real-life characters who added color to this wild and lawless town.

From the chilling specters in the graveyard to the tales of gun-slinging saloon disputes, this episode promises an evocative journey through a time when the Wild West was truly wild. Listen as we unravel the stories of figures like Lizzie Palmer and Billy Brooks, whose lives were steeped in the drama of frontier justice and untamed desires. The pranks, legends, and spirited tales of Dodge City are woven together with historical insight, making this a must-listen for history buffs and lovers of legend alike. Tune in, and let the haunting echoes of Dodge City's past captivate your imagination.

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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 military, stagecoach, and trading roads used by cowboys in the post-Civil War era.

The story of Jesse Chisholm, often credited with creating a trail for cattle drives, takes on a new dimension. His role is now understood as establishing a wagon road connecting the South Canadian River in Indian Territory to the Arkansas River in Kansas. This nuanced understanding underscores the importance of primary sources in ensuring historical accuracy.

The Gary and Margaret Kraisinger story reminds us that history is not static but a dynamic narrative that evolves with new discoveries and perspectives and we, as part of this narrative, have the power to shape it. The Kraisingers' research invites all who cherish historical accuracy to participate in rethinking the Chisholm Trail and the broader context of cattle drives in post-Civil War America. By doing so, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and nuances of this period and the diverse routes that define it.

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