Preserving the Western Trail: A Historian's Perspective: an Interview with Michael Grauer

Article by Michael King

Michael Grauer, the McCaslin Chair of Cowboy Culture and curator at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, is scheduled to present at the 150th-anniversary Western Cattle conference at Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City, Kansas, on November 1st and 2nd, 2024.

During the conference, Michael will deliver two presentations. His first presentation will begin with an engaging exploration of the vibrant history and cultural significance of the King Ranch, focusing on its pivotal role in the Western Cattle Trail. One aspect of "Trailing Cattle from the King Ranch in South Texas" will feature a recording of Bob Kennan, a renowned King Ranch resident historian. 

Michael will examine the utmost importance of Bob's dedicated career, which has been crucial in unveiling the King Ranch's rich history. Michael adds, "Bob Kennan has played a vital role in uncovering the rich tapestry of the ranch's past. His work dates back to the ranch's establishment in 1853 when Captain Richard King purchased a creek-fed oasis in the Wild Horse Desert of South Texas."

Michael's second presentation will be on The Art of the Cattle Trail, a collection of Western Art. For those attending this presentation, it will be a unique and privileged opportunity to learn from his extensive research into this collection, which he has dedicated several years. His discussion will focus on this unique and extensive exploration, providing an exciting opportunity for the audience to delve into the depth of Western art. 

One of his notable publications delves into the life and work of the Texas artist Frank Ray. Titled 'Rounded Up at Glory,' this biography is significant as Ray was the sole artist to witness the cattle drives in their raw, unromanticized form. As Michael puts it, 'Frank Ray's pioneering role in bringing realism to Western art is enlightening. Most depictions we see of these drives were nostalgic or romanticized by artists such as Frederick Remington and Charlie Russell, who were contemporaries of Mr. Ray. Initially, the phenomenon of moving cattle from one part of the US and northern Mexico to another was utterly unfamiliar to the general public in the United States and the world.’ 

During his presentation in Dodge City on November 2nd, Michael Grauer will describe an illustration that vividly captures the intense chaos of cattle stampeding down Front Street. In this illustration, he will humorously debunk the popular culture portrayal of moving cattle through downtown Dodge City. Michael will underscore that this false portrayal, despite its widespread acceptance, is far from the truth and has, unfortunately, shaped what most people think they know about the American West. However, Michael's rigorous research has successfully corrected these misconceptions, providing a more accurate understanding of the American West and the cattle trail phenomenon and enlightening the audience.

“Ranchers drive Texas Longhorns through the streets of Dodge City, Kansas, in a sketch by Edward Rapier, 1878—courtesy of the Kansas Historical Society.”

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Join us on November 1st and 2nd, 2024, when Michael Grauer will provide historical accounts of Trailing Cattle from the King Ranch and the Art of the Cattle Trail at the Western Cattle Trail Association 150th anniversary conference in Dodge City. This event, featuring speakers and activities to commemorate this historic milestone, is a testament to our reverence and respect for the Western Cattle Trail Association's legacy. The agenda includes discussions on the history of cattle trails, the battle of Adobe Walls, and exploring the history of the Northern Cheyenne Indians. 

Those interested in attending the conference should note that the registration fee is $75.00 per person, and registration can be completed via the organization's website or mail. Active participation from attendees is not just encouraged; it's essential to ensure the success of this significant event. To learn more about how to register to attend this conference, go to www.westerncattletrailassoc.com/conference-info and reserve a seat at this two-day event on November 1st and 2nd.