By Michael King Dodge City, a place of monumental historical significance, was founded partly due to buffalo hunting. However, the hunting only started after the buffalo became nearly extinct due to mass slaughter. At this point, Dodge City needed another source of income to survive. Fortunately, circumstances in other parts of the country ultimately provided that source, profoundly shaping the city's history. Post-Civil War, Texas, a land known for its resilience, was ripe for the cattle industry to thrive. Despite the lack of labor and the disrepair of their ranches, the Texans, renowned for their resourcefulness, saw a potential solution to their problems in the wild native Longhorns. Their resilience in the face of adversity is truly inspiring. Ranchers in South Texas embarked on the challenging task of rounding up the Longhorns to sell to eastern buyers. However, they faced a significant obstacle in transporting the cattle to the cities, with no railroads built to where the cattle were and the prospect of driving them to market, causing them to lose too much weight. The ranchers were in a predicament. Their solution was to walk the cattle to the nearest railroad shipping point, usually in Kansas, and then let them ride the rest of the way. The Chisholm Trail, the most famous cattle trail, started in south Texas and ended in Abilene, Kansas. As eastern and central Kansas became more densely populated, local farmers resented the Texans who allowed their cattle to roam freely, which damaged the crops. The farmers also feared "Texas Fever," a disease carried by ticks on the Longhorn cattle, which was deadly to the local cattle. The farmers put up fences to keep out the foreign herds and protect their cattle, and the Kansas legislature passed quarantine laws to prevent Texas cattle from moving through certain parts of Kansas. The legislative action led to the discontinuation of the Chisholm Trail, and cattlemen began using the Western Trail from south Texas to Dodge City, where the Texas trade was more welcome. On the trail, the hardy Longhorns, with their remarkable resilience, grazed for food and spaced themselves by instinct as they moved along about 12 miles a day. Their ability to endure the long journey and harsh conditions is truly admirable. A steer could be driven from the starting point in Texas to Dodge for about 75 cents. The fifteen or so men employed for the drive were each paid thirty to forty dollars a month, so by the time they reached Dodge, $90 or more jingled in their pockets, and they were ready to spend it all on a good time. The first herds heading to Nebraska reached the point of rocks on the outskirts of Dodge City in 1875, marking the beginning of a significant economic boom. The Santa Fe Railroad Company acted quickly by constructing a large new stockyard, and Robert Wright dispatched agents down the trail to assure the drovers that Dodge was ready and waiting for them. Storekeepers purchased new merchandise to meet the needs and desires of the cattlemen and cowboys instead of buffalo hunters. Saloon keepers gave their businesses Texas-inspired names such as Nueces, Alamo, and Lone Star. On May 12, 1877, the first herd from the Red River arrived in Dodge, solidifying the economic importance of the cattle trade. The drives increased until the number of cattle peaked at half a million for one year. The city was buzzing with activity and prosperity, a testament to the success and excitement of the cattle trade. Robert Wright advertised his store as "the largest and fullest line of groceries and tobacco west of Kansas City. It offers everything from a paper of pins to a portable house. The store provides groceries and provisions for your camp, ranch, or farm, as well as clothing, hats, boots, shoes, underclothing, overalls, Studebaker wagons, Texas saddles, rifles, carbines, pistols, festive Bowie knives, and building hardware. The profits are $75,000 a year." Wright mentioned that it was common practice to send $50,000 shipments to banks in Leavenworth for deposit because Dodge had no bank. The store served people of various nationalities. Wright could comprehend and communicate in most Indian languages. Mr. Isaacson was fluent in French, while Samuels had Spanish, German, Russian, and Hebrew expertise. Merchants and saloon keepers knew that trail hands expected to have a good time when they reached town, so they were prepared to provide the right ingredients. The saloons varied from small one-room shanties with dirt floors to long wooden buildings with painted interiors, intricately carved mahogany bars, mirrors, and paintings. These frontier saloons offered more than just poor-quality alcohol and strong spirits. The saloons also provided fine liqueurs, brandies, and the latest mixed drinks. Ice was always readily available to ensure that beer would be served cold and enhance the drinking experience in the newly developed Cowtown. The Old House Saloon even advertised anchovies and Russian caviar on its cold lunch menu. Dodge City's cattle era lasted only ten years, from 1875 to 1885. However, these crucial years shaped its reputation and global renown. It was a time of transition, as the 'Queen of the Cowtowns' evolved into a thriving farming community and trade center, marking a new chapter in its history.
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Article By Michael King The Dodge City Rodeo has a captivating historical origin that sets it apart. It all began with the world premiere of the movie Dodge City' in 1939. Warner Brothers, the movie's producers, mandated that Dodge City be transformed into a western-themed town for the premiere. This included a requirement for an authentic rodeo to be held on the day of the premiere, April 1. Though they held a cowboy-style show at McCarty Stadium, there needed to be more time to prepare for a full-fledged rodeo by April 1. The "real" rodeo, the Boot Hill Roundup, had to wait until May. It was Dodge City's first annual rodeo. It lasted three days and was sponsored by the Great Southwest Free Fair Association, with Warner Brothers supplying much of the equipment. The final performance at McCarty Stadium on Sunday afternoon drew a crowd of 6000. The first rodeo event was a hit, as there's been a rodeo in some way, shape, or form every year since this emergent first effort. In 1950, Dodge City initiated a new festival, the Boot Hill Fiesta. The Fiesta was held in May, completely separate from the rodeo, and was a summertime affair. By 1960, the rodeo was known as the RCA Rodeo when it merged with the Boot Hill Fiesta. Together, they became Dodge City Days, held over three days during the summer. It later expanded to six days and is now ten days. In the 1970s, the rodeo portion of Dodge City Days nearly folded and was saved in 1977 when it was reorganized as the current Dodge City Days PRCA Roundup Rodeo. Ron Long served as its first president. The first reorganized rodeo had 175 contestants and paid out $8,200. Today, the Dodge City Rodeo has blossomed into a significant event. It occurs at the arena, east of 14th Avenue, just south of the Arkansas River. The five-day rodeo now boasts nearly 800 contestants, with pay-offs reaching an impressive $339,000. Dr. R.C. Trotter, who has been President of Roundup since 2003, has played a crucial role in this growth, committing 40 years of his life to Kansas' biggest rodeo, a Dodge City Days celebration staple. In his time with Roundup, the rodeo has blossomed. It's one of the top events in ProRodeo regarding contestant numbers and total payout. He credits the sponsors and fans for the success, but there's more to it. In its 35th year, Roundup Rodeo was enshrined into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs in July 2012. Trotter was on hand then, just as he is now. The commitment that comes with volunteerism is special. The more prominent festival, Dodge City Days, is sponsored by the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce. Their efforts have made Dodge City Days recognized as the second-largest community celebration in Kansas, topped only by the Wichita River Festival. Over 100,000 people attend at least one festival event, generating approximately three million dollars. However, the economic impact on Dodge City is about nine million dollars. The early pioneers like William F. Cody, Annie Oakley, Mabel Delong, William Pickett, Earl Bascom, and many more are at the heart of the rodeo's history. Their dedication and passion keep the rodeo spirit alive. It's the ranchers that genuinely support the legendary rodeos. Without our ranchers, we wouldn't have rodeo in the first place. As noted before, there are many complexions to rodeo. Some are the participants astonishing the gatherings in the stands; others are the timer technicians in the back, the rodeo clowns risking their lives in a barrel, and announcers moving the assemblage as they update them on the event. But when you think of it, rodeo is built by hard-working people with a passion. Like in the early days, people's livelihoods laboriously depends on ranchers. We have so many to thank for the history of rodeo. In conclusion, the history of rodeo is a testament to the enduring spirit of the cowboy. From its origins in the Wild West to its status as a professional sport, rodeo has undergone a fascinating evolution. The journey speaks to the resilience, courage, and innovation of those who have shaped this unique sport. As we look to the future, we can only anticipate that rodeo will continue to evolve, inspire, and thrill generations to come. For more information on the Dodge City Roundup Rodeo, visit the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/DodgeCityRoundup/ or their Website at Dodge-City-Roundup-Rodeo. So, if you happen to be in the area, put on a hat and boots, and don't miss out on one of the top rodeos in the country, including Dodge City Days.
By Michael King
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Dodge City, Kansas, is a quintessential American Wild West symbol. Its very name conjures images of dusty streets, gunfights, and saloons bustling with the ambitions and desperations of pioneers. But how did this iconic boomtown arise from the vast, untamed prairies of the West? To begin our story, we must delve into the rich tapestry of Dodge City's history, exploring its gritty beginnings and the visionary individuals who, with unwavering resilience, carved a community out of the frontier.
In the early 1870s, as the iron veins of the railroad stretched ever westward, Dodge City emerged as a beacon for those seeking opportunity. It began humbly with a solitary sod house belonging to Henry Sittler, the area's first known settler. Yet, it was only a short time before the entrepreneurial spirit of men like John MacDonald and George Hoover spurred the town's rapid growth. MacDonald, an early citizen and businessman, forged a pivotal partnership with Hoover, and together, they established the first saloon, planting the seeds of commerce in this nascent community.
Next came the Essington House, Dodge City's inaugural hotel, which became a cornerstone for the burgeoning town. The establishment's owner, J.M. Essington, met a dramatic end, a narrative arc emblematic of the unpredictable and often violent life on the frontier. Essington's demise led to him being among the first interred in the now-famous Boot Hill cemetery, marking another somber chapter in the town's development.
As we dive into the annals of Dodge City's past, we encounter figures like Frank Hopper, also known by the pseudonym Norf, whose written accounts helped to shape the town's early reputation. The nation learned of this wild town at the edge of civilization through his articles. Hopper's vivid descriptions of the saloons, businesses, and daily life in Dodge City provided a lens through which the rest of the country viewed the unfolding drama of the West. Businesses like Jacob Coller's general store and F.C. Zimmerman's gunsmith shop were instrumental in keeping Dodge City alive. These establishments, with their unwavering commitment, catered to the needs of buffalo hunters, soldiers, and travelers, supplying everything from clothing to firearms. The importance of such enterprises cannot be overstated; they were the town's lifeblood, facilitating its residents' survival and prosperity.
Interestingly, despite the contributions of both John MacDonald and George Hoover to the founding of Dodge City, historical records often favor Hoover's legacy over MacDonald's. This discrepancy in recognition is a point of contemplation, prompting questions about how history is recorded and the factors influencing who is remembered and who is forgotten.
The narrative of Dodge City begins by not merely recounting historical events; it breathes life into the stories of those who lived them. It invites readers to ponder the hardships, resilience, and triumphs of those who ventured into the unknown to forge a new life. The tale of Dodge City is not just one of economic opportunity but also of human endeavor against the backdrop of a wild and unforgiving landscape. In closing, Dodge City's legacy is as enduring as the legends that surround it. Its history is a testament to the determination of the pioneers who sought to tame the West and, in doing so, created a legend that continues to captivate the imagination. The enduring legacy of Dodge City is a significant part of American history, a testament to the determination of the pioneers who sought to tame the West and, in doing so, created a legend that continues to captivate the imagination. We encourage readers and historians to investigate deeper into Dodge City's annals, explore its citizens' enduring spirit, and appreciate the rich chronicles that shaped this American icon.
Most of the businessmen thought Webster's idea a good one. It would rescue businesses suffering from a slowing down of the cattle trade. Also, Dodge had always been a sporting town and a bullfight certainly would be different from the usual parade, races, prize fights, and hose-cart team competition. The Dodge City Democrat wrote of the event on June 28, 1884
A number of so-called good and moral people of the city have attempted to convey the impression... that there will be no bullfight... The reports were started by the same class of fanatical agitators who are eternally opposing every enterprise calculated to advertise Dodge and promote its growth and prosperity ... It is the same class of men who have for years done nothing but howl and kick and at the same time grow wealthy and fat.
Webster collected $10,000 from the merchants in two days to pay for the festivities. The investors formed the Dodge City Driving Park and Fair Association and elected Ham Bell as president and Webster as general manager. Webster started immediately making arrangements. He contacted W. K. Moore, an attorney in Mexico, who would secure the matadors. D. W. "Doc" Barton, who had driven the first trail herd to Dodge, agreed to scout the ranges and select the most ferocious Longhorn bulls. With his extensive knowledge of cattle, Barton spent days on the range, carefully observing and selecting the bulls that would provide the most thrilling and authentic bullfight experience. The Association bought forty acres of land at the city's west edge.
With a sense of urgency and commitment, they put up high wooden fences, planted trees, built corrals, chutes, a half-mile racetrack, and an amphitheater that would seat 2,500 spectators - all in less than two months. The speed and efficiency of the preparations were a testament to the town's unwavering determination to make the bullfight a reality, showcasing their resilience and commitment. As the news stories began to circulate, the determination of the Dodge City officials became evident. Reporters from New York, Chicago, St. Louis, San Franciso, Denver, and a dozen country newspapers booked rooms in the local hotels. The Santa Fe railroad announced it would run excursion trains from the East and the West to bring spectators to the Dodge City bullfight. Despite protests from groups concerned with the prevention of cruelty to animals and rumors that state authorities would stop the fight, the officials remained resolute. Governor Glick even expressed his interest in attending if the fight were held two days earlier. Townspeople at the time claimed that Webster received a telegram from the United States Attorney saying that bullfighting was against the law in the United States, to which the ex-mayor retorted, "Hell! Dodge City ain't in the United States." This bold and determined response highlighted the town's defiance in the face of potential legal issues. As the days before the fight dwindled, Barton rounded up the bulls and drove them into the new pens. The five bullfighters arrived with Attorney Moore, their sponsor. The town was buzzing with anticipation, taking on a festive air as the event drew closer, filling the air with a palpable sense of excitement and energy.
On July 4, 1884, the town was alive with the excitement of the Mexican bullfight. The dusty streets, the weathered clapboard houses, and the rowdy saloons all contributed to the allure of this wild western town. The arrival of the Mexican bullfighters added an exotic touch, and the preparations for the bullfight were a spectacle in their own right.
The bullfight held the entire town in its grip. Thousands of spectators, including cowboys, ladies, and children, filled the stands, eager for the thrilling spectacle. The matadors, adorned in flamboyant costumes, showcased their skills against the fierce bulls. The pinnacle of the event was the face-off between the slender Mexican matador, Gregorio Galardo, and the meanest bull in the West. The memory of this epic encounter, with its breathtaking display of courage and skill, still reverberates today among the citizens of Dodge City, connecting them to their rich history.
After the thrilling bullfight, Dodge City became even more unforgettable. The wild night that followed was filled with fights and gunplay, keeping the marshal and his deputies busy trying to maintain order. The marshal, a seasoned lawman with a reputation for fairness and quick action, and his deputies, a group of brave men who had seen their fair share of gunfights, were constantly on the move, breaking up fights and apprehending troublemakers. Despite the chaos, the town remained excited, the air crackling with the night's energy.
Yet, like all good things, the excitement eventually died down. The influx of visitors, while a boon for the local economy, also brought with it a wave of lawlessness and disorder. Having spent their money and nursed their hangovers, the cowhands left town. The painted ladies, who had been a colorful presence during the bullfight and the revelry that followed, also departed. The dust settled, and the town returned to its usual quiet state. In all its glory, the bullfight had left a lasting mark on Dodge City, a mark that would change the town's history forever. Keith Wondra, curator at Boot Hill Museum and Vice President of the Western Cattle Trail Association, Dodge City Chapter, will delve into the vibrant life of the legendary Ham Bell, an epitome of the Wild West spirit. This special presentation of Ham Bell's life will be held during Dodge City Days on July 31 at Boot Hill Museum starting at 2:00 P.M. On April 4, 1947, Hamilton 'Ham' Bell passed away. According to his obituary, he was one of the most influential men who lived in early Dodge City, shaping the community we know today. Boot Hill Museum curator Keith Wondra will talk about the life of this Dodge City pioneer, shedding light on his contributions to our local history. Born as Hannibal Bettler Belts in Washington County, Maryland, Ham embarked on a journey to Dodge City, Kansas, leaving an indelible mark on its economic and cultural life. In his early life, Bell was a restless jewelry store salesman who had mastered cleaning clocks. This skill would later pave his way to Kansas. He took Horace Greeley's famous advice, "Go West, young man, go west and grow up with the country," and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and reinvention. Ham Bell's arrival in Dodge City marked the beginning of his various ventures. His first business, a sod livery stable, grew into the largest structure in Western Kansas. Known far and wide as the Elephant Livery Stable, it became a meeting point for people throughout the region. Bell's entrepreneurial spirit did not stop there. He opened a dance hall and was the first to introduce the exotic Can Can dance to Dodge City. The dance quickly became the talk of the town, bridging the cultural gap between the frontier and the East Coast. Not just an entrepreneur, Ham Bell was also a respected lawman. His career in law enforcement spanned an impressive 36 years. Ham Bell's rule of never shooting his gun garnered him respect and admiration. His strategy was to draw his weapon in time to make the other man freeze, an approach that contributed to his survival in the volatile environment of the Wild West. Bell's political career was also noteworthy. He served two terms as mayor of Dodge City and two as a Ford County Commissioner. His unique physical attributes and charisma undoubtedly contributed to his political success. Beyond politics and law enforcement, Bell made significant contributions to modernizing Dodge City. He introduced the first women's restroom on the Santa Fe Trail and the first motorized ambulance and hearse in Dodge City. He also operated a furniture store and mortuary business, leaving a floral tribute on the casket of anyone who passed away in the city. Bell's adventurous life didn't stop there. He owned the first car dealership in southwest Kansas and operated a pet shop. When he passed away in 1947 at 94, he left behind a rich legacy and many stories that continue to captivate those interested in the history of the Wild West. The life of Ham Bell, a true pioneer, serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Old West, painting a picture of a time of resilience, entrepreneurship, and cultural evolution. This presentation coincides with a temporary exhibit on the life of Ham Bell. We invite you to come and grab a coffee or even a sarsaparilla and help celebrate Ham's 171st birthday. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn about the life of a Wild West legend and explore Boot Hill Museum's special exhibit. We look forward to seeing you there!
In Dodge City, saloons were popular destinations for drovers to relax and quench their thirst after a long journey. The main road, Front Street, was lined with wooden shanties with porches where water barrels were kept in case of fire. South of the town was the infamous 'Red Light District,' a captivating area that was not only well-known for its three vices: whiskey, gambling, and prostitution, but also for the intriguing stories and characters it housed. This area, with its alluring mix of vices and captivating history, not only fueled the economy of Western Cattle Town but also formed a fascinating part of its history.
Keith Wondra, curator for Boot Hill Museum, tells us that the primary whiskey sold in Dodge City saloons was corn mashed, a staple of the Wild West. It had 40-50% ethyl alcohol by volume and was made from grain, water, and yeast. The production process involved mashing the corn, fermenting the mash, and then distilling the fermented mash. It was aged in new charred oak barrels and referred to as bourbon. During that period, almost every type of whiskey was called bourbon, regardless of where it came from, as long as it contained corn. However, one whiskey, known as the 'Old Sneak Head,' stood out for its unique ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship that would undoubtedly pique the interest of whiskey enthusiasts. Its ingredients included alcohol, tobacco, molasses, red Spanish peppers, and river water. Two rattlesnake heads were added to each barrel to give it spirit. The whiskey was ready to drink when the rattlesnake heads rose to the surface and floated after being dropped in a horseshoe, a process that was as fascinating as it was unique, adding a touch of mystery to its production. Saloon owners, driven by profit, resorted to a deceptive practice. They sold overnight whiskey, watered down to increase their profits. A gallon of whiskey cost $2.00, and a drink was sold for 25 cents, which meant the saloon owner made a profit of about 700%. The more they watered down the whiskey, the more profit they made, a practice that may have left a bitter taste in the mouths of those who sought a genuine whiskey experience. Between 1872 and 1876, it's estimated that 2,250 barrels of whiskey were consumed in Dodge City, which is the equivalent of approximately 70,875 gallons or 4,536,000 drinks. However, after the railroad reached Dodge City in 1872, a new era of drinking began. Saloons started selling not just whiskey but also beer, champagne, and wine, offering a diverse range of beverages. Join Keith Wondra on Wild West Podcast as we journey through time to uncover the captivating chronicles of Dodge City's early saloons. From dark, inexpensive origins to their influence in shaping the city's cultural and economic landscape, Keith guides us through every nook and cranny of these saloon stories, revealing fascinating details about these establishments that were Dodge City's lifeblood during its formative years. We discuss the infamous Saloon War of 1883 and its monumental impact on Dodge City and its economy. Original Story by Lynne Hewes Edited and Extended by Michael King
Contrary to Hollywood's glamorous fiction, singing cowboys were a genuine part of the earlier cattle drives, adding a touch of authenticity to cowboy culture. Long hours on horseback gave cowboys idle time to sing. Some carried harmonicas or even fiddles, but the human voice was the easiest and best instrument. Most started with old folk songs they had learned as kids, then changed the lyrics to fit their lives on the trail. This process of adaptation was not just about changing the words, but also about infusing the songs with their own experiences, emotions, and the unique challenges they faced as cowboys. Cattle drives were over by 1907 when historian John Lomax, a key figure in the preservation of American folk music, set out to study the cowboy's music. Lomax, known for his extensive field recordings and his efforts to document and preserve traditional American music, collected songs and ballads from any and everyone and put out advertisements in local papers. The response was nearly overwhelming. He compiled these songs three years later and published them as 'Songs of the Cowboy and other Frontier Ballads', a seminal work that significantly preserved and popularized cowboy music. E.C. Abbot, also known as "Teddy Blue," discussed cowboy songs in his autobiography, We Pointed Them North: Recollections of a Cowpuncher. Abbott wrote about his own singing on the trail. His book explained the popularity of singing this way: "Another thing about cowpunchers, they didn't have any radio or other forms of entertainment, and they got a big kick out of little things" (220). There was a practical reason for the song as well. Abbot wrote, "One reason I believe there were so many songs about cowboys," he wrote, "was the custom we had of singing to cattle on night herd. The singing was supposed to soothe them, and it did....I know that if you wasn't singing, any little sound in the night—it might be just a horse shaking himself-could make them leave the country, but if you were singing, they wouldn't notice it" Abbot talked about particular songs he said were his favorites, many of which had come from the Ozark Mountains. "I learned' The Little Black Bull' first," he wrote. "That's the oldest song on the range.... 'Bury Me Not on the Lone Prairie' was another great song for a while, but it ended up just like a lot of songs on the radio today; they sung it to death...." (222-4). Sometimes, boredom with traditional lyrics led to new songs. Abbot wrote, 'After a while, you would run out of songs and start singing anything that came into your head. And that was how [new songs got started]'. This process of creating new songs out of boredom and improvisation was a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of cowboys. It also contributed to the rich and diverse repertoire of cowboy songs, which ranged from traditional folk songs to original compositions. Sources
Abbot., E.C. and Helena Huntington Smith. We Pointed Them North: Recollections of a Cowpuncher. University of Oklahoma Press, 1939. Cecil, Randle, and Shelby Conine. “Singing Cowboys.” Country Music Project. https://sites.dwrl.utexas.edu/countrym usic/the-history/singing-cowboys/ |
Author"THE MISSION OF THE WESTERN CATTLE TRAIL ASSOCIATION IS TO PROTECT AND PRESERVE THE WESTERN CATTLE TRAIL AND TO ACCURATELY PROMOTE AWARENESS OF IT'S HISTORICAL LEGACY." Archives
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