WESTERN CATTLE TRAIL ASSOCIATION
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UPCOMING EVENTS

Tim Wenzl Book Signing: December 5th

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David Rogers and Tim Wenzl at the Kansas Heritage Center
Tim Wenzl is an accomplished historian and prolific writer whose passion for history shines through in his role as Archivist Emeritus for the Catholic Diocese of Dodge City. His unwavering dedication has made a remarkable impact on the preservation and appreciation of Catholicism and the rich cultural tapestry of southwest Kansas. Throughout his impressive career, Tim has devoted himself to uncovering and narrating the captivating stories that define our region.
He has authored numerous books, including “Angelus to Xavier, Catholic Place Names in Kansas, Obvious and Obscure,” “Historic Buildings & Landmarks of Dodge City,” and “Dodge City’s Santa Fe Depot & the El Vaquero Harvey House.” Another notable work, "Dodge City's Mexican Village: A Place in Time," highlights an essential yet often overlooked community of our city’s colorful history.
​Tim's contributions extend far beyond writing. He has actively engaged with community and historical projects that resonate deeply with local residents. A standout moment in his career was his pivotal role in a video project capturing the narratives of Dodge City's Mexican Village, where he skillfully conducted interviews with former residents. More recently, he shared his insights in the documentary "Under Five Flags," which delves into the rich history of Ford County before 1850.

 
As the diocesan archivist, Tim has been instrumental in safeguarding the historical records of the Catholic Church in our community. His expertise also enriched the content of the Diocese's newspaper, the Southwest Kansas Register, where he served as an editor. Through his extensive research, and engaging writing, Tim Wenzl has become a vital and dynamic voice in preserving and sharing the fascinating history of Dodge City and the surrounding area.
Mark Your Calendars: Author Tim Wenzl Book Signing!
Join us at the Dodge City Legacy Center for an exciting evening with author Tim Wenzl!
This is your chance to meet Tim in person, chat about his work, and get your copy of his book signed. Whether it's a gift for the holidays or a treat for yourself, a signed book is always special!
Event Details:
  • Who: Author Tim Wenzl
  • What: Book Signing
  • Where: Dodge City Legacy Center - 310 Gunsmoke, Dodge City, Kansas
  • When: Friday, December 5, 2025
  • Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Bring a friend and support a fantastic author. We can't wait to see you there!
#DodgeCity #DodgeCityLegacyCenter #TimWenzl #BookSigning #AuthorEvent #KansasAuthors #SupportLocal
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Dr. Jeff Broome Presents: The Sand Creek Battle, Oct 4, 2025

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Exciting news! The Western Cattle Trail Association, along with the Dodge City/Fort Dodge/Cimarron Chapter of the Santa Fe Trail, is thrilled to announce a special event you won't want to miss! Join us on Saturday, October 4th, at 2:00 p.m. in the Lois Flanagan Room at the Dodge City Public Library for an enlightening presentation on the Sand Creek Battle featuring the renowned Dr. Jeff Broome as our guest speaker.

Prepare to be captivated as Dr. Broome delves into the rich history of the Sand Creek Battle, sharing a wealth of perspectives and intriguing individual case studies. This is a fantastic opportunity to deepen your understanding of this pivotal event—mark your calendars and join us for an afternoon of historical exploration!

In his presentation, Dr. Broome will delve into the experiences of Morse Coffin, a soldier in the 3rd Colorado Cavalry, whose poignant insights will reveal the complex dynamics surrounding the Sand Creek engagement. He will also draw connections to fellow cavalry member Hugh Melrose, providing a dual lens through which to understand the often-misrepresented narratives of this encounter. 
By examining the accounts of both Melrose and Coffin, Dr. Broome will critically address the historical inaccuracies that have clouded national understanding of this pivotal event, highlighting the challenges in accurately assessing casualty figures and the demographics of the village affected by this tragedy.

Moreover, Dr. Broome will spotlight the pivotal work of author Frank Hall, whose research underscores the daunting obstacles inherent in uncovering the truths of the Sand Creek Massacre. He will articulate how Hall's findings expose the widespread deceit and inconsistencies reflected in the testimonials and official reports of the era.

Dr. Broome's objective is to unravel the intricate ways in which misleading narratives have distorted the true essence of the events at Sand Creek. Through a meticulous examination of historical accounts and the testimonies of those who experienced it firsthand, he seeks to clarify the complexities surrounding this significant episode in American history. This critical exploration will not only illuminate the obscured realities of that tragic day but will also emphasize the enduring impacts on local communities and the broader historical narrative.

The Non-Traditional Story of Sand Creek
The Traditional Story of Sand Creek
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Marla Matkin Presents: Pioneering Women: Sept, 20, 2025

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​The Kansas Heritage Center is delighted to invite you to an unforgettable free event that promises to illuminate the often-overlooked contributions of women in our history! Join us on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at the Dodge City Public Library for a captivating presentation by Marla Matkin, a former educator and celebrated historian.

Her presentation, titled "Pioneering Women: Triumph and Tragedy," will delve into the extraordinary lives of four remarkable women from diverse backgrounds across the West. These women, frequently marginalized in historical accounts, offer critical insights that enrich our understanding of the past.

Marla will share the compelling story of Lottie Johl, who lived in Bodie, California, from 1855 to 1899. Initially a prostitute, Lottie overcame societal stigma after marrying butcher Eli Johl, only to confront the harsh realities of societal rejection due to her past.
In addition, Marla will bring to life Lydia Spencer Lane, author of "I Married a Soldier," which chronicles her experiences as a soldier's wife on the American frontier during the mid-1800s. This narrative provides profound insights into life at army outposts, the Western frontier's response to the Civil War, and the significant challenges faced by women of that era.

Prepare to be intrigued by the complex figure of Getta Graham Dix, a woman shrouded in mystery and depth, whose story adds another layer to our understanding of women's roles in history.

Participants will also learn about Martha Gay Masterson, an American settler whose diary began at age 13 during her family's journey along the Oregon Trail in 1851. Her published diary, “One Woman's West: Recollections of the Oregon Trail and Settling of the Northwest Country," serves as a crucial resource for historians and offers rich perspectives on the lives of women and girls in the 19th-century Pacific Northwest.

Don’t miss this free admission event, an incredible opportunity to discover and celebrate the lives of the pioneering women who shaped our history! Join us to honor their legacies and gain a deeper appreciation for the courageous women who paved the way for us. Refreshments will be served.

Upcoming Events

 ​Cattle Trail Consortium Conference 
October 24-25 Cleburne, Texas near Fort Worth
More information to come

Marla Matkin Presentation: Pioneering Women
September 20, Saturday, 
Dodge City Public Library 2:00 Lois Flannagan Room
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Dr. Jeff Broome Presentation
October 4th Saturday, 2:00
Dodge City Public Library, Lois Flannagan Room
Sand Creek Massacre

Cattle Trails Showcase 

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You are warmly invited to the Cattle Trails Showcase, a free monthly Zoom call that celebrates the rich tapestry of communities, history, museums, and attractions along the historic cattle trails.
While the Covered Wagons on the Santa Fe Trail, the Pony Express, and the famous Cattle Drives are celebrated chapters in United States history, the often-overlooked "Buffalo Bones era" reveals a powerful story. 
The extensive slaughter of buffalo (bison) for their hides left the prairie a solemn reminder, with millions of tons of bones echoing the impact on an entire species. Join us as we share a brief video clip from Ken Burns' PBS production, "The American Buffalo," and delve into the fascinating history of the bones trade at one of Kansas's busiest railroad "bone collection sites."
There is no charge to participate in this enlightening call. We hope to see you there!
Topic: Cattle Trails Showcase  
Date: Friday, April 11  
Time: 10 a.m. Central Time
Join Zoom Meeting
https://ksu.zoom.us/j/96664273770?pwd=OFN0R2JVR3lzcnppam81V2cxUnZpUT09
Meeting ID: 966 6427 3770
Passcode: CTS2021
Or call:
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)

National Cattle Trails Conference - October 24-25, 2025  Cleburne, TX

Mark Your Calendars! 2025 National Cattle Trails Conference is Coming!
Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the 2025 National Cattle Trails Conference! Join us as we celebrate the rich history of cattle trails featuring organizations like the International Chisholm Trail Association, Western Cattle Trail Association, Great Western Cattle Trail, Shawnee Cattle Trail, and the Goodnight-Loving Trail.
  • When: October 24-25, 2025
  • Where:Cleburne, Texas
  • Hosted by: The Outdoor Chisholm Trail Museum
Cleburne is just a quick 30-minute drive from Fort Worth along the scenic Chisholm Trail Parkway, making it a perfect destination for all trail enthusiasts!
Prepare for an exciting lineup that includes engaging speakers, insightful legislative updates, fascinating tours, delicious food, and a whole lot of Texas-style fun!
Stay tuned for more details – you won’t want to miss this incredible gathering!

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Contact Website Administrator Mike King [email protected]
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  • Home
    • Membership
  • Events
  • News
    • Newsletter
  • Conference Info
    • Presenters
  • Resources
    • Fabrication of Greatness
    • Ghost Stories
    • 250 Commemoration in Kansas
    • The Return of Harper's Weekly
    • Books
    • JEFF BROOME
    • Ron Wilson
    • Keith Wondra
    • Hienie F. Schmidt
    • Stock Yards of 1876
    • Santa Fe Trail
    • Kraisinger Books
    • Women of the West
    • Cowboy Legends
    • History
  • Blog