The Return of the Great Hunters: The Story of the Second Battle of Adobe Walls
The story “The Return of the Great Hunters” written by Mike King and narrated by Brad Smalley is a six-part series taking place in March of 1874. The buffalo hunters have returned to Dodge City in preparation to travel 150 miles south deep into Indian Territory. Their purpose is to kill off the rest of the southern herd. The expedition is organized by A.C. Myers a Dodge City general merchandising owner who recruits a forty-man team, which ultimately leads to the second battle of Adobe Walls and the Red River War.
The early morning attack on June 27, 1874 "There never was a more splendidly barbaric sight," Dixon later said in his biography. "In after-years I was glad that I had seen it. Hundreds of warriors, the flower of the fighting men of the southwestern Plains tribes, mounted upon their finest horses, armed with guns and lances and carrying heavy shields of thick buffalo hide, were coming like the wind."
In a day long battle, the hunters divided themselves among the few low-ceiling buildings that existed on the site. There was Hanrahans Saloon, the small Myers & Leonards store and the Rath & Wright trading post. With the mud walls as a barricade, the hunters were able to use their booming Sharps rifles against the Indians who were already demoralized by their loss of surprise and the sudden knowledge that Isatai's medicine was far less than promised.
In the early fighting, more than a dozen warriors and three defenders were killed. For the next couple of days, Quanah kept his force close to the Walls but never ventured another frontal attack. On the third day, a group of chiefs rode up onto a nearby hilltop to look down on the besieged hamlet. Dixon, being the best of the marksmen, was coaxed into trying a "long shot".
The early morning attack on June 27, 1874 "There never was a more splendidly barbaric sight," Dixon later said in his biography. "In after-years I was glad that I had seen it. Hundreds of warriors, the flower of the fighting men of the southwestern Plains tribes, mounted upon their finest horses, armed with guns and lances and carrying heavy shields of thick buffalo hide, were coming like the wind."
In a day long battle, the hunters divided themselves among the few low-ceiling buildings that existed on the site. There was Hanrahans Saloon, the small Myers & Leonards store and the Rath & Wright trading post. With the mud walls as a barricade, the hunters were able to use their booming Sharps rifles against the Indians who were already demoralized by their loss of surprise and the sudden knowledge that Isatai's medicine was far less than promised.
In the early fighting, more than a dozen warriors and three defenders were killed. For the next couple of days, Quanah kept his force close to the Walls but never ventured another frontal attack. On the third day, a group of chiefs rode up onto a nearby hilltop to look down on the besieged hamlet. Dixon, being the best of the marksmen, was coaxed into trying a "long shot".
The Book: Buffalo Days by Michael King
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Buffalo Days, Legends of Dodge City, is about outfits of buffalo runners who traveled in and out of the Arkansas River Valley from 1870 to 1872. The book is a collection of individual stories of how men became legends of their experiences, founded at times by luck, but mostly on their skills to survive.
These are the stories of personal legends established out of solid character and the will to endure, making them unique to American lore. Here are the hunters such as Charles Rath, Josiah Wright Mooar, Jim White, Thomas Nixon, HooDoo Brown, Bill Tilghman, and Billy Dixon. |
The fully illustrated book is the second in a series of frontier books by Michael King based on the historical records of individual characters and their actions to become remembered as legends. These are the stories of legendary men told by the citizens of a fledgling town born out of the prairie that became known as Dodge City, Kansas.
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PART ONE
Reliving the Buffalo Hunting Era: Triumphs, Trials, and Tales from the Wild West
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The late 19th century marked a tumultuous time in the history of the Wild West, with buffalo hunting playing a pivotal role. The podcast episode "Charging into the Wild: The Thrills and Perils of Buffalo Hunting in the Late 19th Century" provides a deep dive into the adventures and challenges faced by buffalo hunters during this period. The tales of their triumphs and trials are an embodiment of the raw spirit of the era.
Quana Parker, son of Cynthia Ann Parker and a Comanche war chief, is introduced at the beginning of the episode. We witness him observing a white hunter skillfully hunting a buffalo, an experience that leaves a profound impact on Quana. This scene is vividly recounted, capturing the stark realism of the era and setting the stage for the ensuing stories of buffalo hunters. |
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One such buffalo hunter was Charles Rath, a significant figure during the great buffalo slaughter of 1872-1873. His story is a testament to the relentless spirit and survival instincts of the hunters of the time. Rath's adventures take us through the excitement in Dodge City, complete with an Irish jig performed by Mike McCabe, painting a vibrant picture of the period.
As the episode progresses, we follow the expedition of Mike McCabe, William Masterson, and Billy Tyler, who venture south of the Arkansas River in pursuit of buffalo. Despite warnings from Amos Chapman about potential Indian encounters, the buffalo hunters press on. This part of the journey captures the spirit of adventure that coursed through the veins of these brave souls. |
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The devastating impact of buffalo hunting is also highlighted, particularly the immense toll it took on the buffalo population. In 1867, the buffalo count in the southern plains was estimated at nearly 50 million. However, by 1869, the discovery of buffalo leather by tanneries around the world led to an escalation in hunting, significantly reducing the buffalo population.
Overall, the podcast episode offers a fascinating exploration of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of buffalo hunting in the late 19th century. The personal accounts and detailed narratives bring this historical era to life, providing listeners with a deep understanding of this significant chapter in American history.
While the buffalo hunting era was marked by adversity and challenges, it also demonstrated the indomitable spirit of survival. Despite the odds, these hunters forged ahead, shaping the course of history. Their stories, vividly recounted in this podcast episode, serve as a compelling reminder of a time when life was a game of chance, survival, and sheer grit.
Overall, the podcast episode offers a fascinating exploration of the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of buffalo hunting in the late 19th century. The personal accounts and detailed narratives bring this historical era to life, providing listeners with a deep understanding of this significant chapter in American history.
While the buffalo hunting era was marked by adversity and challenges, it also demonstrated the indomitable spirit of survival. Despite the odds, these hunters forged ahead, shaping the course of history. Their stories, vividly recounted in this podcast episode, serve as a compelling reminder of a time when life was a game of chance, survival, and sheer grit.
PART TWO
From the Frontier to the Adobe Walls: The Unseen Journey of Ed Jones and Joe Plummer
In March of 1874, with dozens of wagons loaded with thousands of dollars' worth of building supplies, a caravan of hunters, skinners, traders and teamsters left Dodge City, crossed the Arkansas and moved into the forbidden land of the Medicine Lodge treaty. In part two Billy Dixon, William Masterson and Billy Tyler explore the ruins of the first Adobe Walls structure. There they find an old Ute Indian painting. The painting in Ute Indian symbols describes the first Battle of Adobe Walls.
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Ever wanted to experience the thrill of the American frontier? The endless landscapes, the untamed beauty, and the rugged lifestyle of the brave men and women who dared to venture into the unknown? Our latest podcast episode, "Thrills and Trails of the American Frontier: From the Arkansas River to the Untold Stories of Adobe Walls," takes listeners on a journey through the wild west, unveiling secrets and stories that shaped this iconic era of American history.
We begin our adventure with the story of Ed Jones, a buffalo hunter turned merchant, and his companion Joe Plummer. Both men are known for their fearless exploits and their formation of the Jones and Plummer Trail, a popular route for many buffalo hunters. The story of Ed, known as 'Dirty-faced Ed' due to an altercation with an Indian, showcases the courage and self-reliance of the frontier people. |
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The podcast also explores the vibrant social life of the frontier. Picture sharing meals with Civil War veterans under the wide-open skies, the camaraderie, the shared stories, and the enduring spirit of these frontiersmen. These stories bring to life the joys and challenges of the frontier journey, the intense feelings of freedom, and the wildness of the land.
The journey continues with a stop at the Cimarron River, a place teeming with secrets and the stunning beauty of the original Adobe Walls. The river, with its swift current and hidden dangers, and the ancient ruins of Adobe Walls, provide a vivid picture of the frontier life. The podcast dives deep into the history and mysteries of these places, giving listeners a unique glimpse into the past.
As we round up our journey, we follow the brave cowboys led by Masterson who venture into Adobe Walls country. The final part of the podcast pays homage to the spirit of exploration and the untamed beauty of the frontier, capturing the essence of the wild west.
Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a compelling story, our podcast episode provides a riveting journey through the American frontier. We invite you to join us on this unforgettable exploration, filled with wild adventures, untold stories, and the spirit of the frontier.
The American frontier is more than just a historical era; it's a symbol of the spirit of exploration, the courage of the pioneers, and the wild beauty of the land. Our podcast brings these stories to life, providing a unique perspective on this iconic period in American history. Join us on this journey, and experience the thrills and trails of the American frontier.
The journey continues with a stop at the Cimarron River, a place teeming with secrets and the stunning beauty of the original Adobe Walls. The river, with its swift current and hidden dangers, and the ancient ruins of Adobe Walls, provide a vivid picture of the frontier life. The podcast dives deep into the history and mysteries of these places, giving listeners a unique glimpse into the past.
As we round up our journey, we follow the brave cowboys led by Masterson who venture into Adobe Walls country. The final part of the podcast pays homage to the spirit of exploration and the untamed beauty of the frontier, capturing the essence of the wild west.
Whether you're a history buff or simply seeking a compelling story, our podcast episode provides a riveting journey through the American frontier. We invite you to join us on this unforgettable exploration, filled with wild adventures, untold stories, and the spirit of the frontier.
The American frontier is more than just a historical era; it's a symbol of the spirit of exploration, the courage of the pioneers, and the wild beauty of the land. Our podcast brings these stories to life, providing a unique perspective on this iconic period in American history. Join us on this journey, and experience the thrills and trails of the American frontier.
PART THREE:
Joe Plummer's Riveting Retelling of Kit Carson's Strategic Showdown
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Based on true accounts of the first battle of Adobe Walls listeners will immerse in a riveting narrative from the Wild West as we delve into the remarkable story of Kit Carson's surprise attack on the Comanche and Kiowa winter village. The tale is expertly spun by Joe Plummer, a vibrant storyteller who paints a vivid picture of the heart-stopping moments on the battlefield.
Carson and his troops huddled in the bitter cold of dawn, facing the daunting enormity of their enemy. The tension, the fear, and the raw courage exposed in the face of a formidable foe are tangible in Plummer's rendition. The narrative grips you, pulling you into the vibrant tapestry of a bygone era. |
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Carson's brigade, full of young men who dared to charge into battle even before formal orders were given, displayed admirable bravery. Plummer's storytelling shines a light on their audacious actions and their leader's strategic decisions. As the story unfolds, the adrenaline rush intensifies, making you feel as if you are right there on the battlefield.
Plummer also paints a vivid picture of Carson's battery of cannons and the unexpected retreat of the Indian army. The sight of an abandoned village adds an eerie touch to the narrative. But the story doesn't end there; it reaches its climax with the awe-inspiring image of a thousand warriors rallying under their chiefs, set against a backdrop of a sprawling village of lodges.
In the aftermath of the grueling battle, Plummer's narration delves into the counter-attack led by Chief White Bear and Carson's audacious decision to press on, despite being outnumbered. The Battle of Adobe Walls, a haunting portrayal of the human cost of war, serves as a poignant reminder of the grim reality behind the tales of courage and bravery.
This episode transcends the boundaries of a mere retelling of historical events. It serves as an homage to the power of oral tradition in preserving our past and evoking the deepest human emotions. It is a testament to the significance of history in shaping our present and influencing our future.
The tales of valor, strategy, and survival are not just stories from the past; they are lessons for the present and inspirations for the future. They remind us of the indomitable human spirit and the courage it takes to stand up against insurmountable odds.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or a fan of compelling narratives, this episode offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Wild West. It promises to transport you back in time, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history. So, buckle up and prepare for a trip into the past that will leave you on the edge of your seat
Plummer also paints a vivid picture of Carson's battery of cannons and the unexpected retreat of the Indian army. The sight of an abandoned village adds an eerie touch to the narrative. But the story doesn't end there; it reaches its climax with the awe-inspiring image of a thousand warriors rallying under their chiefs, set against a backdrop of a sprawling village of lodges.
In the aftermath of the grueling battle, Plummer's narration delves into the counter-attack led by Chief White Bear and Carson's audacious decision to press on, despite being outnumbered. The Battle of Adobe Walls, a haunting portrayal of the human cost of war, serves as a poignant reminder of the grim reality behind the tales of courage and bravery.
This episode transcends the boundaries of a mere retelling of historical events. It serves as an homage to the power of oral tradition in preserving our past and evoking the deepest human emotions. It is a testament to the significance of history in shaping our present and influencing our future.
The tales of valor, strategy, and survival are not just stories from the past; they are lessons for the present and inspirations for the future. They remind us of the indomitable human spirit and the courage it takes to stand up against insurmountable odds.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or a fan of compelling narratives, this episode offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Wild West. It promises to transport you back in time, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history. So, buckle up and prepare for a trip into the past that will leave you on the edge of your seat
Fort Bascom
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Built in 1863, Fort Bascom was a frontier military post along the Canadian River in New Mexico that had a significant impact on the Anglo settlement of the Southwest. Learn about the history of Ft. Bascom from Dr. James Bailey Blackshear. On November 12, 1864, Colonel Kit Carson leads his army of four hundred and fifty men to the Northeast out of Fort Bascom. The purpose of Carson's force was to strike the winter village of Comanches and Kiowas who had been raiding the Santa Fe Trail. Carson followed an old trader wagon road that crossed through the Panhandle as a shortcut to the Santa Fe Trail and the Arkansas River. The two forces meet at an Adobe Walls structure on November 25, 1864, leading up to the first Battle of Adobe Walls.
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PART FOUR:
A Confrontation with the Tribes: The Sundance and the Unsettling Warning in the Wild West
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Immerse yourself in the rugged landscape of the Wild West, as we embark on a thrilling adventure from Adobe Walls to White Deer Creek. This journey takes us through the lives of individuals who lived during this tumultuous time, painting a vivid picture of their experiences.
Our journey begins at Adobe Walls, a town built from the ground up in the wilderness. Here, we witness the construction of a picket house, a sod house, a blacksmith's shop, and a stockade corral. The establishment of shops and saloons gives a glimpse into the lifestyle of the time, as we accompany Masterson, Billy Tyler, and Mike McCabe on their buffalo hunts. However, buffaloes, the lifeblood of this rugged lifestyle, prove to be scarce. |
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Our journey continues to the mouth of White Deer Creek, an ideal camping ground. Here, we stumble upon signs predicting the return of the elusive buffaloes. This thrilling adventure is punctuated by a buffalo hunt that stirs up the thrill of the chase. The battle with the herd results in a victory of twenty-seven buffaloes. However, a sudden storm spooks the herd into a stampede, changing the course of our adventure.
As we traverse the wilderness, we come face-to-face with the tribes preparing for the Sundance, led by their religious leader Isatea. The mystic practices and supernatural claims associated with this event paint a picture of the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the tribes. The escalating tension, as chiefs of Quartz and Hoia tribes warn of a potential uprising, adds a gripping twist to our narrative. |
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This Wild West adventure gives us a glimpse into the lives of those who lived during this time, their struggles, and their triumphs. As soldiers are brought to Fort Supply and a reliable scout is called for, we are left wondering what lies ahead. Our journey through the Wild West, from Adobe Walls to White Deer Creek, brings to life the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of those who lived during this era. It is a tale of adventure, survival, and resilience that continues to resonate with us today.
As we delve deeper into the heart of the Wild West, we uncover the complexities of the era, from the thrill of the buffalo hunt to the unsettling warnings of the tribes. This exploration provides us with a unique perspective on this period in history, allowing us to understand the challenges and victories of those who lived during this time. Join us as we continue to unravel the mysteries and unfold the stories of the Wild West.
As we delve deeper into the heart of the Wild West, we uncover the complexities of the era, from the thrill of the buffalo hunt to the unsettling warnings of the tribes. This exploration provides us with a unique perspective on this period in history, allowing us to understand the challenges and victories of those who lived during this time. Join us as we continue to unravel the mysteries and unfold the stories of the Wild West.
PART FIVE:
Delete Plumber's Harrowing Recount of the Adobe Walls Killing of Dudley and Wallace
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Our latest podcast episode offers listeners a unique and thrilling insight into the trials, tribulations, and survival stories of life in the Wild West. Our guest, a plumber by profession, takes us through a gripping journey from Adobe Walls to Chicken Creek, painting a vivid picture of a time of courage, confrontation, and resilience.
In this episode, we kick things off with the shocking recount of Dave Dudley and Tommy Wallace's brutal deaths during an unexpected Indian uprising. Our guest plumber narrates the chilling fate of these two men and the formidable strength shown by Hannah Olds, a cook and boarding house owner, in the face of such adversity. These narratives capture the very essence of survival and the relentless human spirit that thrived in the rugged terrains of the Wild West. |
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Our journey continues as we return to Adobe Walls after burying our fallen comrades. However, peace was not to be as we soon discover more trouble brewing in the form of a precarious situation that needs immediate attention. Our plumber recounts the tense moments, the collective fear, and the sheer grit that each individual displayed, further intensifying the riveting narrative of life and death in the Wild West.
Towards the end of the episode, we explore the Daybreak Settlement in detail. This segment offers listeners a deep dive into the architectural structures of the time, giving a realistic view of the conditions people lived under. We learn about the three primary structures at Daybreak - the Wrath and Wright Company Store, the Hanra, Hans and Dobie Building, and the Leonard and Myers Store. The intricacies of these structures, their wall thickness, dimensions, and the presence of a large door, all add depth to our understanding of life during this era.
This episode stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and its ability to survive against all odds. The personal accounts and experiences shared by our guest plumber provide an unparalleled look into the Wild West era. From confronting unexpected danger to observing the simple architectural structures of settlements, this episode covers it all. So, buckle up and prepare yourself for a wild ride through history as we explore the echoes of survival in the Wild West.
Towards the end of the episode, we explore the Daybreak Settlement in detail. This segment offers listeners a deep dive into the architectural structures of the time, giving a realistic view of the conditions people lived under. We learn about the three primary structures at Daybreak - the Wrath and Wright Company Store, the Hanra, Hans and Dobie Building, and the Leonard and Myers Store. The intricacies of these structures, their wall thickness, dimensions, and the presence of a large door, all add depth to our understanding of life during this era.
This episode stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit and its ability to survive against all odds. The personal accounts and experiences shared by our guest plumber provide an unparalleled look into the Wild West era. From confronting unexpected danger to observing the simple architectural structures of settlements, this episode covers it all. So, buckle up and prepare yourself for a wild ride through history as we explore the echoes of survival in the Wild West.
PART SIX: Battle of Adobe Walls
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On June 5, 1874, Hanrahan and a party of hunters departed Dodge City for Adobe Walls. The Indians on the Texas plains did not like the occupation of the hunters in the area, especially when they began killing off their buffalo for the sale of hides. The Battle of Adobe Walls was fought on June 27, 1874, between Comanche force of 700 and a group of 28 bison hunters defending the settlement. Comanche Chief Quanah Parker, son of a captured white woman, Cynthia Ann Parker, led the Indian contingent. Some of the hunters, who were present at Adobe Walls, included James Hanrahan, 20-year-old Bat Masterson, William "Billy" Dixon who on the third day of the battle made a famous long-distance rifle shot effectively ending the siege.
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The Battle of Adobe Walls: A Harrowing Tale of Courage, Bloodshed, and Resilience in the Old West
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Our latest podcast episode takes listeners on an exhilarating journey back in time to the heart of the Old West. It's an exploration of the Battle of Adobe Walls, a critical event that epitomized the harsh realities, the bravery, and the resilience of life during this era.
The episode opens with the chilling account of two buffalo hunters who were caught, killed, and shockingly scalped by a band of Indians. The intensity of this scene sets the tone for the entire episode. As the narrative unfolds, the listeners are transported to the grim, adrenaline-charged environment, the tension building with each ticking moment of the battle. |
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We delve deeper into the dramatic narrative with the detailed recounting of Billy Tyler's valiant attempts to defend his comrades. His tragic end serves as a stark reminder of the relentless and unforgiving nature of the Wild West. However, the episode also highlights the indomitable human spirit that flourished even in the face of such a grueling ordeal.
The courageous resistance of the buffalo hunters is brilliantly showcased in the story of Old Sam Smith's brave last stand. His defiance, in the face of overwhelming odds, ultimately led to the Indians' retreat. The portrayal of such acts of bravery underscores the raw resilience and determination that characterized the people of this era.
The courageous resistance of the buffalo hunters is brilliantly showcased in the story of Old Sam Smith's brave last stand. His defiance, in the face of overwhelming odds, ultimately led to the Indians' retreat. The portrayal of such acts of bravery underscores the raw resilience and determination that characterized the people of this era.
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As we navigate through the gruesome aftermath of the battle, a vivid picture is painted of a battlefield littered with the dead and the wounded. Despite the despair and chaos, glimmers of hope and resilience persist, a testament to the unbroken spirits of the buffalo hunters.
The episode concludes with a poignant discussion on the aftermath of the battle. The buffalo hunters' return to Dodge City and their celebration as heroes serve as a bittersweet endnote to this chapter of history. The abandonment of the trading post and the life they knew signifies the end of an era marked by danger, camaraderie, and a unique sense of purpose. |
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This episode offers more than just a recounting of a historical event. It is an exploration of the human spirit, resilience, and the brutal realities of life in the Old West. It's a fascinating, in-depth look at a pivotal moment in history, filled with gripping narratives and rich historical context that will undoubtedly resonate with all listeners, whether they are history buffs or just casual podcast enthusiasts.
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