This Week in the West Podcast
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Get ready, Western enthusiasts! At Wild West Podcast, we are thrilled to unveil an incredible new partnership with the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum! Together, we're embarking on an adventure that celebrates the untamed spirit and captivating stories of the American West. Join us for the thrilling launch of "This Week in the West" podcast! This exciting weekly show, hitting your ears every Monday morning, will take you on a five-minute journey into the mesmerizing history of the West. Broadcasting from the iconic National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, "This Week in the West,” will shine a spotlight on the remarkable individuals and groundbreaking events that have shaped this legendary region. Don't miss out on the excitement—tune in and explore the West with "This Week in the West.
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Wyatt Earp's Adventures: Lecture by Keith Wondra - March 19th
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Get ready for an unforgettable event! On March 19th at 4:00 P.M., join us at the Boot Hill Museum for an electrifying lecture by curator Keith Wondra that dives deep into the legendary Wyatt Earp's time in Dodge City! Discover the thrilling tales of Wyatt's adventures in Dodge City, Tombstone, and Wichita, and uncover how Hollywood has brought his story to life on the big and small screens. Don't miss this chance to celebrate the 177th anniversary of the birth of a true icon of Old West law enforcement. This is a must-attend event for history buffs and Western enthusiasts alike! Mark your calendars!
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Santa Fe Trail/Fort Dodge/Cimarron Chapter Meeting : April 27, 2025 at 12:00 P.M.
Photo by Mike King of Dr. Leo Oliva
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Join us for a memorable gathering as the Santa Fe Trail/Fort Dodge/Cimarron Chapter and the Wet/Dry Routes Chapter come together in Dodge City for a special lunch meeting at Don Taco Cowtown, starting at 12:00 PM. Located at 503 East Trail, this event is a heartfelt tribute to the remarkable Carol Sharp.
We’re excited to announce that her husband, Dan, will take the stage to share insights about the fascinating remnants of the Santa Fe Trail discovered on their ranch near Boise City, Oklahoma. He'll highlight remarkable sites like Autograph Rock and Cold Springs, offering a unique glimpse into history. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Leo Oliva and the Sharp family. We promise an afternoon filled with knowledge and shared passion for our heritage! |
The Cattle Trail Showcase: Every Second Friday at 10:00 AM
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Join us for the Cattle Trail Showcase, hosted by the International Chisholm Trail Association. Every second Friday of the month at 10:00 AM via Zoom, we delve into captivating topics that celebrate our rich heritage — from fascinating museums to significant historical events and remarkable sites linked to the cattle trails. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and connect with fellow enthusiasts. We would love to have you participate! Let us know if you're interested!
Videos highlighting communities, history, museums, and other attractions along the Chisholm and Western cattle trail.
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Western Cattle Trail Membership Drive
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Dear WCTA Friends,
We want to extend our gratitude to everyone who has submitted their membership dues for this year. Your support means the world to us at the Western Cattle Trail Association. As a volunteer-driven organization, we rely heavily on your contributions to keep our website (www.westerncattletrailassoc.com) and Facebook page up and running. Our newsletters are crafted with care by dedicated volunteers and distributed with the help of the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). Your generous donations also play a crucial role in bringing speakers to Dodge City during our cherished Western Cattle Trail Wrangle, part of the wonderful Dodge City Days celebration. |
We are incredibly thankful to the Community Foundation of Southwest Kansas for their invaluable support through their grant program, which enriches our resources and promotes our mission. Since we currently don’t have the capability for online payment options, we kindly ask that you continue to send your membership dues by check or pay in cash at our meetings.
We encourage you to share our message and newsletter with friends and family. Also, remember to visit our regularly updated website and follow us on Facebook for the latest news!
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. It truly warms our hearts to have you by our side in preserving the history of the Western cattle trail. Your commitment makes a profound difference!
Warm regards,
Western Cattle Trail Association: Dodge City Chapter. (Click Here to Renew Your Membership or Join)
We encourage you to share our message and newsletter with friends and family. Also, remember to visit our regularly updated website and follow us on Facebook for the latest news!
Thank you once again for your unwavering support. It truly warms our hearts to have you by our side in preserving the history of the Western cattle trail. Your commitment makes a profound difference!
Warm regards,
Western Cattle Trail Association: Dodge City Chapter. (Click Here to Renew Your Membership or Join)
Landmark Conservancy - Ford County Historical Society
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In today's world, it's crucial that we hold on to the significance of preserving our historic buildings. Landmark conservancy is not just a practice; it's a heartfelt commitment that greatly enriches our society. We cultivate a profound sense of belonging, continuity, stability, identity, and cherished memories by nurturing our connections to these historic places. Together, we can honor our past and ensure that these reminders of our history remain vital to our community for generations to come.
The meticulous upkeep of venerable buildings plays a vital role in safeguarding the rich tapestry of our communities' history and culture. |
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These structures serve as silent witnesses to the passage of time, echoing the stories and traditions that have shaped our identities. We must acknowledge the immense value of preservation efforts, actively working to maintain these architectural treasures for the benefit of future generations. By doing so, we can ensure that the essence of our heritage remains vibrantly intact, allowing those who come after us to appreciate, learn from, and be inspired by the profound lessons of our past.
To truly honor and preserve our community's rich history, we must see the protection of our historic buildings as a heartfelt commitment to our heritage, which stretches back to 1864—long before Dodge City, Ford County, or the Santa Fe Railroad came into existence. The Ford County Historical Society has been a dedicated advocate for maintaining this precious history, restoring beautiful homes and museums that the community can cherish and enjoy. These places of historic value include, the restoration of the Santa Fe Depot, the renovation of the Home of Stone, and the establishment of the Legacy Center, which breathed new life into the 1948 Gambles Department Store to showcase the county's rich artifacts.
Their plans to include the Fort Dodge Junior Officers Quarters in their efforts aim to preserve its historic essence and breathe new life into it through thoughtful adaptive reuse. If you feel moved to support the Ford County Historical Society's outstanding efforts, please get in touch with them at [email protected]. Your support can make a meaningful difference in safeguarding our shared legacy.
To truly honor and preserve our community's rich history, we must see the protection of our historic buildings as a heartfelt commitment to our heritage, which stretches back to 1864—long before Dodge City, Ford County, or the Santa Fe Railroad came into existence. The Ford County Historical Society has been a dedicated advocate for maintaining this precious history, restoring beautiful homes and museums that the community can cherish and enjoy. These places of historic value include, the restoration of the Santa Fe Depot, the renovation of the Home of Stone, and the establishment of the Legacy Center, which breathed new life into the 1948 Gambles Department Store to showcase the county's rich artifacts.
Their plans to include the Fort Dodge Junior Officers Quarters in their efforts aim to preserve its historic essence and breathe new life into it through thoughtful adaptive reuse. If you feel moved to support the Ford County Historical Society's outstanding efforts, please get in touch with them at [email protected]. Your support can make a meaningful difference in safeguarding our shared legacy.
FORD COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY: KICKOFF CELEBRATION
Ford County Historical Society Board Members (Pictured Center: Mary
Hendrix, Member, Back Leb: Soni Hughes, Treasurer, Back Right: Kent Stehlik, President)
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Mark your calendars for an unforgettable night of inspiration and history! Join us at the Ford County Historical Society’s grand kickoff event, “A New Year of Historical Accomplishments: A 2025 Kickoff Celebration,” on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Dive into an evening that promises to be filled with community spirit and captivating stories at the Ford County Legacy Center, located at 310 Gunsmoke Street in Dodge City. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate our past and look forward to what lies ahead!
The Ford County Historical Society kickstarts the festivities with a pivotal board meeting at 5:00 p.m., where new leadership will be elected to steer us into an exciting future. As the clock strikes 5:45 p.m., join us for light refreshments, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that's perfect for mingling with fellow Ford County community members. |
Prepare to be captivated as Kent Stehlik takes the stage at 6:00 p.m., sharing the remarkable accomplishments of the Historical Society and unveiling thrilling plans that lie ahead. But that's not all! Kent will spotlight the essential work of the Landmark Conservancy, setting the stage for a truly inspiring presentation by Melissa McCoy. She will delve into the passionate preservation efforts surrounding the First National Bank and the iconic Stan Herd stagecoach mural, showcasing our collective dedication to safeguarding our rich heritage. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate our past and look forward to an exciting future together!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Prepare to be captivated as Kathi Holt shares exhilarating details about the Junior Officers’ Quarters Landmark project at Fort Dodge. And to top it all off, the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau will bring us up to speed on the latest innovative developments at the Ford County Legacy Center.
Hold on tight for a highlights presentation by local historian Brad Smalley, featuring "The Dodge City Saloon War and Its Significance to Modern Tourism." You'll be transported back to 1883 as he recounts the gripping showdown between gambler Luke Short and the determined political powers seeking to shut down the infamous Long Branch Saloon. Discover how this historic conflict continues to influence tourism today!
Join us for this extraordinary evening as we celebrate the rich tapestry of Ford County’s history and its vibrant connections to the present! Best of all, admission is free, and a fabulous door prize will be announced at the end of the event—don’t miss out! We can't wait to see you there!
But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Prepare to be captivated as Kathi Holt shares exhilarating details about the Junior Officers’ Quarters Landmark project at Fort Dodge. And to top it all off, the Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau will bring us up to speed on the latest innovative developments at the Ford County Legacy Center.
Hold on tight for a highlights presentation by local historian Brad Smalley, featuring "The Dodge City Saloon War and Its Significance to Modern Tourism." You'll be transported back to 1883 as he recounts the gripping showdown between gambler Luke Short and the determined political powers seeking to shut down the infamous Long Branch Saloon. Discover how this historic conflict continues to influence tourism today!
Join us for this extraordinary evening as we celebrate the rich tapestry of Ford County’s history and its vibrant connections to the present! Best of all, admission is free, and a fabulous door prize will be announced at the end of the event—don’t miss out! We can't wait to see you there!
The Dodge City Saloon War & Its Significance to Modern Tourism
Get ready for an unforgettable evening! Join the Ford County Historical Society as they kick off an exciting new chapter with a celebration presentation by historian Brad Smalley on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM. We’ll gather at the Ford County Legacy Center for an event full of fun, history, and community spirit. Don’t miss out on being part of this special occasion!
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Some stories do more than entertain; they breathe life into communities and ignite tourism in exciting ways. Dodge City has a rich assortment of captivating narratives that reflect its dynamic history. The challenge lies in uncovering these extraordinary tales and sharing them in a manner that resonates profoundly with visitors, creating personal and unforgettable experiences. Prepare yourself for an exhilarating journey through time, where each story invites you to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Dodge City!
One of the most enthralling tales from the Wild West is the legendary Saloon War of Dodge City, a narrative that brilliantly connects a stormy past with our modern world. Mark your calendars for February 26, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. and join us at the Ford County City Legacy Center for a compelling presentation by Brad Smalley, titled "The Dodge City Saloon War and Its Significance to Modern Tourism," proudly hosted by the Ford County Historical Society. This riveting chapter from 1883 recounts the tale of a bloodless showdown involving the daring gambler Luke Short and the political forces of Dodge City, determined to shut down Short's thriving Long Branch Saloon and drive him out of town. Don't miss this rare chance to discover how this historical conflict continues to influence the dynamic landscape of modern tourism! |
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During the latter half of the 19th century, Texas cattlemen were confronted with a formidable task. As their herds grew and settlements advanced westward, they were compelled to constantly seek new paths to guide their cattle to northern markets. The Shawnee Trail, the first to become impassable, was succeeded by the Chisholm Trail. In 1874, John T. Lytle, a true pioneer, forged a new route beyond the western frontier, spanning from the grazing ranges of Texas to Fort Robinson, Nebraska. When the U.S. Army effectively ended the Red River War in early 1875, driving the Comanche and Kiowa onto a reservation, Lytle's trail became the most popular route to the railheads in Kansas and Nebraska. It remained the most utilized until the cattle trailing industry ceased in the 1890s.
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The Western Trail, a pivotal component of the cattle-driving industry, was also known as the Dodge City Trail or the Texas Trail. It originated in the hill country of Texas near present-day Kerrville, where numerous minor trails converged. During the 1880s, the drives frequently passed by Dodge City, heading to Ogallala, Nebraska, and Wyoming. Some herds even journeyed to Canada. The Western Trail was paramount in transporting over nine million longhorns, of which 75,000 head of cattle were shipped out of Dodge City annually from 1875 through 1885. These significant events underscored the trail’s monumental historical significance, leaving a profound mark on the American West.
Once a bustling thoroughfare, the Western Trail witnessed significant traffic until 1891, when it experienced a dramatic downturn. The last recorded herd to use the trail was in 1897, originating from the XIT ranch, the largest ranch in the world under the fence, in the Texas Panhandle. This was a poignant moment, symbolizing the end of an era. By the turn of the 20th century, the cattle-driving industry had ground to a halt, and with it, the Western Trail faded into the pages of history.
Once a bustling thoroughfare, the Western Trail witnessed significant traffic until 1891, when it experienced a dramatic downturn. The last recorded herd to use the trail was in 1897, originating from the XIT ranch, the largest ranch in the world under the fence, in the Texas Panhandle. This was a poignant moment, symbolizing the end of an era. By the turn of the 20th century, the cattle-driving industry had ground to a halt, and with it, the Western Trail faded into the pages of history.
Western Cattle Trail Dodge City Chapter Minutes
Kansas House Approves Resolution Honoring Western Trail Anniversary
On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, the Kansas House unanimously approved the resolution commemorating the Western Trail.
Message from the President of the Western Cattle Trail Association:
The Western Cattle Trail Association was established in the fall of 2016 in response to concerns about erroneous information being fed to National Park Service officials about the historic Western Cattle Trail. A group of citizens from Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, and Nebraska came together to forge the Western Cattle Trail Association so as to ensure the legacy of this national heritage trail was remembered and interpreted accurately and to protect and preserve its stories across the nine United States the historic trail traversed. Moreover, the WCTA adamantly promotes historical truth based on research of historic sources over fiction, myth, and political correctness. The WCTA feels strongly that only by upholding true stories will visitors to the trail worldwide connect, collaborate, and engage with all parts of the Western Cattle Trail's history.
Michael Grauer
Michael Grauer
Letter to: Senator Moran
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Dear Senator Moran et al:
Thank you for your work on the legislation to designate the Chisholm and Western Cattle Trails as National Historic Trails. We also appreciate your attention to ameliorating the concerns of landowners facing property usurpation in regions where the trails pass. We understand that there are parties who feel the Western Cattle Trail should have the ahistorical adjective "great" attached to its National Heritage Trails designation. The Western Cattle Trail Association's mission is to protect and preserve the Western Cattle Trail and to accurately promote awareness of its historical legacy* across the nine states the history trail traversed. To that end, the WCTA relies on the extensive and unparalleled research and publications on the Western Trail by Margaret and Gary Kraisinger, whose two large volumes on the Western Trail set the standard for cattle trail research worldwide. Their decades of research reveal that not only was the adjective "great "never used by drovers or cattlemen during the trail driving period (1866-1890), it was never called "great" during the Wester Trail's primary use period (1874-1884). Moreover, only the Kraisingers have pinpointed the single instance where the adjective "great" was used by a scholar: A master's thesis submitted to Texas Technological College by Jimmy Skaggs in 1965, "The Great Western Cattle Trail to Dodge City, Kansas." Dr. Skaggs later taught economies and chaired the American Studies department at Wichita State. He never again used the adjective "great" in his numerous publications on the Western Cattle Trail and trail driving, including his seminal 1973 study The Cattle-Trailing Industry: Between Supply and Demand, 1856-1890, published by the University Press of Kansas. Clearly, to use the adjective "great" in the designation of the historic Western Cattle Trail would be to promote an error and a myth. The National Park Service has done its due diligence in separating the wheat (truth and fact) from the chaff (hyperbole and fiction). The Western Cattle Trail Association appreciates your support of the National Park Service study, which recommends using the names Chisholm and Western Trail. |
The two major cattle trails used after the Civil War were the Eastern/Chisholm and the Western. For years cowboys, historians, and the general public have confused the two trails' location and names. Trail drivers on the Eastern/Chisholm Trail crossed the Red River at Red River Station and went to the eastern Kansas railheads and sometimes on north to the Platte River in Nebraska (1867 to 1876). Trail drivers following the Western Cattle Trail crossed at Doan's Crossing on the Red River and trailed to Dodge City, Kansas and beyond as far north as the Canadian Border.
It lasted approximately twelve seasons (1874 to 1886). (Map Created By Gary Kraisinger)
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Respectfully,
Michael R. Grauer, President, Wester Cattle Trail Association, Dodge City, Kansas Board Member, Chisholm Trail Association, Abilene, Kansas Board Member, National Drovers Hall of Fame, Ellsworth, Kansas Board Member, Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame, Dodge City, Kansas Executive Committee, Westerners International Home Ranch, Canyon, Texas McCasland Chair of Cowboy Culture, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, OK
Michael R. Grauer, President, Wester Cattle Trail Association, Dodge City, Kansas Board Member, Chisholm Trail Association, Abilene, Kansas Board Member, National Drovers Hall of Fame, Ellsworth, Kansas Board Member, Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame, Dodge City, Kansas Executive Committee, Westerners International Home Ranch, Canyon, Texas McCasland Chair of Cowboy Culture, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City, OK
Board of DirectorsMichael Grauer: National President
Keith Wondra: President Dodge City Chapter Joel Herndon: Vice President Dodge City Chapter Mary Hendrix: Secretary Dodge City Chapter Joel Herndon: Treasurer Dodge City Chapter Ron Wilson: Legislative Representative Gary and Margaret Kraisinger: Historians |
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