Music on the American Frontier - JULY 31 @ 10 AM
Hey history buffs, music makers, and high-energy young folks—dust off your boots and get ready to make some noise! Mark your calendars for an unforgettable morning as the Western Cattle Trail Association and the Dodge City Legacy Center Museum hosts Dr. Frank Sharp for an interactive, foot-stomping presentation: Music on the American Frontier.
The Details
When: July 31 at 10:00 A.M.
Where: Dodge City Legacy Center Museum at 310 Gunsmoke St, Dodge City, KS 67801
Admission: Bring your energy and your singing voice!
Where: Dodge City Legacy Center Museum at 310 Gunsmoke St, Dodge City, KS 67801
Admission: Bring your energy and your singing voice!
What It’s All About
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Back in the 1800s, music wasn't just a way to pass the time—it was a vital tool for survival, community building, and keeping heritage alive. Dr. Sharp is diving deep into primary-source accounts to explore the diverse musical landscape of the 19th-century frontier. You'll discover the actual songs that echoed through dusty cow camps, lonely military outposts, and rowdy dance halls, alongside the highly portable instruments that traveled thousands of miles across the plains.
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Grab an Instrument and Join the Band!
This isn't your typical quiet museum lecture. We need YOU to help bring this music to life! Dr. Sharp is bringing a trunk full of historic rhythm instruments, and the audience is the main act. Whether you are a seasoned musician or have never played a note in your life, you'll get the chance to grab some spoons, maracas, or rhythm bones and jam along.
Expect a full-room, hands-on experience where everyone gets to play and sing the legendary songs of the 1800s!
Why You Can’t Miss This:
For Folk Music Lovers: Hear the authentic, raw roots of American music.
For Musicians: Discover the unique, portable instruments that shaped early American history and try your hand at traditional rhythm-making.
For Young People & Families: It's loud, it's fun, it's entirely interactive, and it's the coolest history lesson you'll ever experience.
For Musicians: Discover the unique, portable instruments that shaped early American history and try your hand at traditional rhythm-making.
For Young People & Families: It's loud, it's fun, it's entirely interactive, and it's the coolest history lesson you'll ever experience.
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Don't just listen to history--be a part of it. See you on July 31 at the Dodge City Legacy Center Museum. Come ready to sing, clap, and play! Sponsored by Western Cattle Trail Association, Dodge City Chapter.
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The Hidden Legacy of the Texas Longhorn
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Step into the captivating world of the American frontier, where history, grit, and surprising truths converge to reshape everything you thought you knew about the Old West. In this engaging address, our speaker, Dr. Frank Sharp, peels back the layers of myth to reveal an astonishing reality: post-Civil War Texas was pulled from deep economic depression not just by hard-working cowboys, but by the legendary Texas Longhorn itself—a drive that infused what would be billions of dollars in modern currency into a devastated economy. Drawing on decades of firsthand research and vivid field experience, the narrative takes listeners from the original 1493 Spanish cattle imported by Columbus straight to the dusty trails of Fort Griffin and the iconic Western Cattle Trail.
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Yet, this isn't merely a nostalgic walk down memory lane; it is an urgent rally for historical preservation. Listeners will be hooked as the speaker exposes a startling modern tragedy: while hyper-selective breeding has filled associations with crossbred "freaks" valued solely for oversized horn spans, the true, genetically pure, small-bodied Texas Longhorn is actually on the brink of critical extinction. With a perfect blend of Third-Grade math, sharp wit, interactive banter, and authentic passion, Dr. Frank Sharp offers an unforgettable look at the animal that quite literally carried American civilization forward. Tune in to discover why saving the true Texas Longhorn means safeguarding the very heart of Western heritage.
Renowned Historian and Educator Dr. Frank Sharp to Speak on Texas Longhorn Legacy at the Ford County Legacy Center on July 31, 2026 @ 2:00 P.M.
The Western Trail Association, Dodge Cty Chapter is proud to announce a featured presentation by Dr. Frank Sharp, educator, author, and cattleman, on July 31, 2026, at 2:00 PM. This event represents a significant opportunity for the community and scholars alike to gain deeper insight into the enduring legacy of the Texas Longhorn.
The presentation will be held at the Legacy Center and is open to the public. All history enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in this noteworthy occasion. Dr. Sharp’s presentation will explore the history, symbolism, and genetics of the Texas Longhorn, the breed central to 19th-century cattle drives. Drawing on more than three decades of experience raising Longhorns and his doctoral research on these cattle, he provides a unique perspective that connects academic study with practical ranching. He is currently Lead Educator for the State of Texas Herd of Longhorns located at Fort Griffin, Texas.
“We are honored to host a speaker of Dr. Sharp’s caliber,” said Mary Hendrix, a representative of the Western Trail Association. “His dedication to preserving the true history of the Western Trail and the families who maintained these herds is exactly what our mission stands for.”
The presentation will be held at the Legacy Center and is open to the public. All history enthusiasts are encouraged to participate in this noteworthy occasion. Dr. Sharp’s presentation will explore the history, symbolism, and genetics of the Texas Longhorn, the breed central to 19th-century cattle drives. Drawing on more than three decades of experience raising Longhorns and his doctoral research on these cattle, he provides a unique perspective that connects academic study with practical ranching. He is currently Lead Educator for the State of Texas Herd of Longhorns located at Fort Griffin, Texas.
“We are honored to host a speaker of Dr. Sharp’s caliber,” said Mary Hendrix, a representative of the Western Trail Association. “His dedication to preserving the true history of the Western Trail and the families who maintained these herds is exactly what our mission stands for.”
About the Speaker: |
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Dr. Frank Sharp is a former college professor and dedicated advocate for Texas Longhorn cattle. His doctoral dissertation focused on the history and symbolism of these animals. As a Board Member of the Cattlemen’s Texas Longhorn Conservancy and a published author, he has devoted his career to their conservation.
Dr. Sharp passionately remarks, “Sadly, the historic Longhorn is being bred out of existence… to the point that they are now on the critically endangered list. That’s why I took my current job—to find ways in my current position to spread the message that real historical Longhorns are closer to extinction today than ever before. My hope is that this effort will make a meaningful impact in saving these legendary animals.” |
Centennial Stone and Student Sketches: Landmark Arts Project Bridges Generations
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DODGE CITY — For over a century, the limestone walls of the Carnegie Library have stood as a monument to knowledge in Dodge City. This month, those same walls are being viewed through fresh eyes as the Ford County Historical Society kicks off its 4th Annual Landmark Arts Project.
The initiative challenges students from across the region—representing Dodge City Middle School, Comanche Middle School, Sacred Heart, DCHS, and Dodge City Community College—to reinterpret local landmarks through various artistic mediums. This year’s muse is the iconic 1907 Carnegie building, now known as the Carnegie Center for the Arts. |
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Investing in the Art
The project is more than just a gallery showing; it is a full-scale investment in the local creative economy. Through partnerships with the Community Foundation of Southwest Kansas and the Community Facilities Advisory Board, the Ford County Historical Society ensures that financial barriers don't stand in the way of talent.
Mary Hendrix, Landmark Arts project coordinator and Vice President of the Ford County Historical Society, stated that the program will provide essential art supplies to every participating school. "It’s about honoring the dedication of both the students and the instructors who guide them," Hendrix explained.
The stakes are high for participating artists, as the project will culminate in the awarding of three scholarships for students to continue their studies at Dodge City Community College.
Mary Hendrix, Landmark Arts project coordinator and Vice President of the Ford County Historical Society, stated that the program will provide essential art supplies to every participating school. "It’s about honoring the dedication of both the students and the instructors who guide them," Hendrix explained.
The stakes are high for participating artists, as the project will culminate in the awarding of three scholarships for students to continue their studies at Dodge City Community College.
How to Visit
For those unable to attend the main reception on May 13, the exhibit offers several viewing windows:
- Gallery Dates: Saturday, April 18 – Thursday, May 14
- Final Friday Reception: April 24 (5:30 PM – 7:00 PM)
- Regular Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Event Highlights: Wednesday, May 13
The awards evening promises a multisensory experience for attendees:
- 5:00 PM: The evening opens with the sounds of the DCHS Orchestra Ensemble.
- 5:30 PM: The formal Awards Ceremony begins, recognizing the top works across various age groups.
- Refreshments: Local supporters have provided snacks and drinks for guests as they tour the gallery.
The photos are of the Carnegie Library in Dodge City (now the Carnegie Center for the Arts), which was established through a 1905 grant and officially opened to the public in February 1907, with Iva Nelson serving as the first librarian. In 1905, Local women's clubs pushed for a public library, leading Judge E.H. Madison to petition Andrew Carnegie. Carnegie initially approved a $7,500 grant, which was later increased to $8,500 after the city met the necessary maintenance funding requirements. The building’s size was doubled in 1936 with support from the Works Progress Administration, which is why the structure today looks different from the original 1907 postcards.
Tim Wenzl Book Signing: December 5th
David Rogers and Tim Wenzl at the Kansas Heritage Center
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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.
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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.
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:
#DodgeCity #DodgeCityLegacyCenter #TimWenzl #BookSigning #AuthorEvent #KansasAuthors #SupportLocal
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
#DodgeCity #DodgeCityLegacyCenter #TimWenzl #BookSigning #AuthorEvent #KansasAuthors #SupportLocal
| tim_wenzl_flyer.pdf |
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.
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.
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The Non-Traditional Story of Sand Creek
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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.
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
Dr. Jeff Broome Presentation
October 4th Saturday, 2:00
Dodge City Public Library, Lois Flannagan Room
Sand Creek Massacre
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
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)
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.
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!
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
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]