Buffalo Days Part One:
The Tumultuous Tale of Charles Rath and the Buffalo Hunters
Dive into the untamed frontier of the Wild West with Charles Rath and the pioneering buffalo hunters. Our narrative takes us through the vast, buffalo-filled plains of the Selina River Valley and the tumultuous relationships that shaped this era of American history.
The plains were home to massive herds of buffalo, their dewlaps almost touching the ground, making up one vast herd. These herds were always on the move, migrating north in the summer and south in the winter. Not only did they provide food and clothing for Native American tribes, but they also drew the attention of the American fur company. The company began purchasing thousands of buffalo robes annually in the 1840s, marking the beginning of a booming trade. In 1859, a gold strike at Cherry Creek and the Rocky Mountains brought an influx of settlers through Kansas. Around this time, Charles Rath, a frontier merchant, came west to establish trading contacts with various Indian tribes. He further strengthened these alliances when he married a Cheyenne woman in 1860. The tale takes a dramatic turn when Rath takes over a trading post following a brutal massacre. Despite his best efforts to maintain peaceful relationships with the tribes, his trading post was raided multiple times due to rising tensions between the Indians and white settlers. These tensions ultimately led to his Cheyenne wife convincing him to divorce her for his safety. As the narrative progresses, we witness the rise of the railroad industry, a major game-changer for the West. The construction of the Santa Fe Railway brought in thousands of settlers, requiring buffalo hunters to provide for these masses. The railway’s progress also gave birth to several forts and sparked the birth of the industrial age. Rath's story also intertwines with the rise of tanneries and the demand for buffalo hides. The industrial age not only changed the face of America but also put many men to work as buffalo hunters, marking the start of a new era. |
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The episode concludes with a reminder to check out other episodes on iTunes and visit their digital bookstore. The journey of Charles Wrath and the buffalo hunters is more than just a history lesson. It's a chance to relive the pulse-pounding drama of the Wild West and pay tribute to the men and women who braved the wilderness and helped shape America's history.
Buffalo Days Part Two:
The Adventures of Josiah Wright Moarr: Untold Stories of Buffalo Hunting and Frontier Prosperity
In this podcast episode, we travel back to the Wild West with Josiah Wright Moarr, a frontier dweller whose life takes an unexpected turn leading him to prosperity. The frontier was a place where every day was a struggle and opportunity could come knocking at any moment. This tale of survival, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity captures the essence of the wild west adventures.
Josiah begins his story by sharing his arduous journey of moving wood for the Army Post to make ends meet. This was a time when life on the frontier was harsh and unpredictable, and the only certainty was the need to keep one's rifle close at hand. The sight of large herds of buffalo migrating across the plains was a common one, but little did Josiah know that this would be his ticket to fortune. An unexpected encounter with the legendary buffalo hunter, Jim White, changes the course of Josiah's life. Jim, a 20-year veteran of the wild west, imparts his wisdom and experience, opening Josiah's eyes to the potential goldmine that buffalo hunting could be. The prospect of trading the arduous work of hauling wood for the thrill of buffalo hunting and the promise of wealth it held was too enticing for Josiah to resist. |
The tale takes another twist when Tom Nixon, a fellow frontier dweller, proposes a four-man buffalo hunting enterprise. Originally contracted to hunt buffalo meat for the army, Tom finds himself out of work when the job had already been contracted out. But instead of succumbing to despair, Tom, together with his partner A.C. Myers, sees an opportunity for a new venture. The prospect of earning $2.25 for each buffalo hide they could sell was an enticing proposition, and one that Josiah couldn't pass up.
This story encapsulates the spirit of the wild west – the unpredictability of life, the harshness of the frontier, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. It paints a vivid picture of life on the frontier and the trials and triumphs of those who dared to venture into the wild west. It is a tale of survival, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. Josiah's journey from wood hauling to buffalo hunting and the prosperity it brought him is a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of those who lived during this era.
In a world where survival was the name of the game, Josiah Wright Mooarr managed to find fortune and prosperity. His story is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the limitless possibilities that can arise from seizing the opportunities that life presents. His tale of survival, friendship, and relentless pursuit of opportunity is a timeless reminder of the potential that lies within each of us to shape our own destiny.
This story encapsulates the spirit of the wild west – the unpredictability of life, the harshness of the frontier, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. It paints a vivid picture of life on the frontier and the trials and triumphs of those who dared to venture into the wild west. It is a tale of survival, friendship, and the relentless pursuit of opportunity. Josiah's journey from wood hauling to buffalo hunting and the prosperity it brought him is a testament to the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of those who lived during this era.
In a world where survival was the name of the game, Josiah Wright Mooarr managed to find fortune and prosperity. His story is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the limitless possibilities that can arise from seizing the opportunities that life presents. His tale of survival, friendship, and relentless pursuit of opportunity is a timeless reminder of the potential that lies within each of us to shape our own destiny.
Buffalo Days Part Three:
An Adventurous Pursuit of Buffalo Hunters and the Intriguing Mystery of Valuable Hides
Step into the world of the Wild West, an era marked by daring adventures and intriguing mysteries. In this podcast episode, we take you on a thrilling journey into the lives of buffalo hunters and the enigmatic allure of buffalo hides.
As we venture into the dusty livery stable and haggle over a hunting rig, the challenges of the frontier life become palpable. We form an unlikely team with AC, Myer, and Nixon, each contributing their unique personalities and strengths to the mission. Together, we undertake the audacious task of fulfilling a contract for 500 buffalo hides.
The episode paints a vivid picture of the past, delving into the intricacies of the human spirit and the challenges of frontier life. The suspenseful negotiation over the hunting rig and the intimate letter shared with a brother in New York City underscore the depth and richness of the narrative.
The story reveals the unique dynamics of the Wild West, an era defined by its raw, unfiltered experiences and the resilient spirit of its inhabitants. We explore the allure of buffalo hides, a commodity of high value that fuels our mission. The narrative raises questions about the hides' mysterious allure and whether it will deter our team from completing the mission.
Throughout the episode, the interactions among the team members shed light on the complexities of human relationships. The character development, particularly of AC, Myer, and Nixon, offers fascinating insights into the human psyche. Their courage, determination, and camaraderie in the face of adversity add a captivating layer to the story.
The episode takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions, from the thrill of the hunt to the suspense of negotiation, the excitement of team formation, and the introspection brought on by a heartfelt letter. It immerses listeners in the gritty reality of the Wild West, offering a peek into a world that was as challenging as it was exhilarating.
In conclusion, the podcast episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending historical insights with adventure, suspense, and human drama. It offers a unique window into the Wild West era, bringing to life the daring adventures of buffalo hunters and the intriguing mystery of buffalo hides. It's a story that invites listeners to step into the boots of the hunters, to experience their triumphs and trials, and to discover the untold stories of the Wild West.
As we venture into the dusty livery stable and haggle over a hunting rig, the challenges of the frontier life become palpable. We form an unlikely team with AC, Myer, and Nixon, each contributing their unique personalities and strengths to the mission. Together, we undertake the audacious task of fulfilling a contract for 500 buffalo hides.
The episode paints a vivid picture of the past, delving into the intricacies of the human spirit and the challenges of frontier life. The suspenseful negotiation over the hunting rig and the intimate letter shared with a brother in New York City underscore the depth and richness of the narrative.
The story reveals the unique dynamics of the Wild West, an era defined by its raw, unfiltered experiences and the resilient spirit of its inhabitants. We explore the allure of buffalo hides, a commodity of high value that fuels our mission. The narrative raises questions about the hides' mysterious allure and whether it will deter our team from completing the mission.
Throughout the episode, the interactions among the team members shed light on the complexities of human relationships. The character development, particularly of AC, Myer, and Nixon, offers fascinating insights into the human psyche. Their courage, determination, and camaraderie in the face of adversity add a captivating layer to the story.
The episode takes listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions, from the thrill of the hunt to the suspense of negotiation, the excitement of team formation, and the introspection brought on by a heartfelt letter. It immerses listeners in the gritty reality of the Wild West, offering a peek into a world that was as challenging as it was exhilarating.
In conclusion, the podcast episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending historical insights with adventure, suspense, and human drama. It offers a unique window into the Wild West era, bringing to life the daring adventures of buffalo hunters and the intriguing mystery of buffalo hides. It's a story that invites listeners to step into the boots of the hunters, to experience their triumphs and trials, and to discover the untold stories of the Wild West.
Buffalo Days Part Four:
Survival and Secrets of the Wild West: Unraveling the Tenacious Tale of the Buffalo Soldiers and the Booming Buffalo Hide Trade
The American West has long held a place of intrigue in the annals of history, replete with tales of bravery, survival, and the unyielding spirit of the human will. Our latest podcast episode takes you on a riveting journey into the vibrant history of the American West, featuring the compelling saga of the Buffalo Soldiers and the boom of the Buffalo Hide Trade.
The story of the Buffalo Soldiers is one that epitomizes courage and resilience. These brave men of the 10th Cavalry found themselves embroiled in an intense conflict in August of 1867, where a mere 38 soldiers faced an onslaught of 400 Cheyenne warriors. The episode intricately narrates the tale of this remarkable standoff, and the strategies employed by the Buffalo Soldiers to hold their ground, ultimately living to recount the experience. The captain's swift decision to fight on foot and form a defensive hollow square around their cavalry horses demonstrated the tactical acumen that ensured their survival. However, the story of the Buffalo Soldiers extends beyond their battle exploits. The episode further delves into the personal story of Jim White, weaving a narrative of love, revenge, and betrayal that transcends time. It explores how one man's personal vendetta led him to become the most wanted man in Mexico, providing listeners with a captivating glimpse into the emotional depth of one frontiersmen. |
Transitioning from the battlefield, the episode then journeys into the heart of Kansas, shedding light on the booming Buffalo Hide Trade. Tom Nixon, a Dodge City landowner on the cusp of transformation, seized the opportunity that the advent of the railroad brought with it. The railroad, a pivotal invention of the era, had far-reaching effects on the West, influencing the economic landscape and the fate of the men who dared to exploit its potential.
The Buffalo Hide Trade, propelled by the advent of the railroad, played a significant role in shaping the American frontier. The episode offers a comprehensive examination of this period of economic boom, tracing the ripple effects of the trade on the West's socio-economic fabric. The account of Nixon's fortunes provides a microcosmic view of the broader picture, highlighting the spirit of enterprise that defined this era.
The podcast episode paints a vivid picture of the American frontier, embodying a narrative of survival, adventure, and uncharted territories. It underscores the indomitable spirit that characterized the individuals who ventured into the untamed West, offering listeners a riveting foray into a pivotal chapter of American history. This episode truly encapsulates the grit, valor, and tenacity that define the legacy of the Buffalo hunter and the men who rode the wave of the Buffalo Hide boom.
The Buffalo Hide Trade, propelled by the advent of the railroad, played a significant role in shaping the American frontier. The episode offers a comprehensive examination of this period of economic boom, tracing the ripple effects of the trade on the West's socio-economic fabric. The account of Nixon's fortunes provides a microcosmic view of the broader picture, highlighting the spirit of enterprise that defined this era.
The podcast episode paints a vivid picture of the American frontier, embodying a narrative of survival, adventure, and uncharted territories. It underscores the indomitable spirit that characterized the individuals who ventured into the untamed West, offering listeners a riveting foray into a pivotal chapter of American history. This episode truly encapsulates the grit, valor, and tenacity that define the legacy of the Buffalo hunter and the men who rode the wave of the Buffalo Hide boom.
Part Five: Buffalo Days
Rugged Tales and Thrills: Jim White's and Josiah Wright Mooar Days of Buffalo Hunting
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of buffalo hunting expeditions in the Old West. Our journey begins with Jim White, an experienced buffalo hunter, who takes us through the meticulous preparations at the campsite and the thrill of the hunt.
Observing the buffalo in their natural habitat was half the thrill of the hunt. These majestic creatures, with their curious actions and unique behavior, presented an intriguing spectacle. The sharpshooting skills, the killing of the buffalo, and the skinning process were all part of the day's work.
Every detail mattered - from the selection of the Sharp's 50 rifle, the construction of the shooting stand, to the critical shot under the buffalo's foreshoulder. Each bullet had to count. And as Jim pointed out, one bullet from a professional was worth more than a score from an amateur.
But the hunt was only part of the story. Back at the camp, the hides were cured, and the meat was smoked. The camaraderie, the laughter, the shared stories around the campfire, and the occasional threats added to the richness of the experience. It was a life of hard work, but it was also a life filled with unforgettable moments.
Listening to Josiah Wright Mooar recollections, you can almost smell the smoking meat, feel the grit of the plains under your boots, and hear the echoes of laughter and tales around the campfire. His vivid narratives bring to life a time and a way of life that's long past, yet still holds a fascination for us.
Each day, from dawn to dusk, was an adventure, a challenge, and a celebration of life in the wild, rugged terrain of the Old West. It was a world where the buffalo roamed freely, where the plains echoed with the sounds of hunting expeditions, and where men like Jim White and Josiah Mooar carved out a life amidst the beauty and harshness of nature.
Through Josiah's eyes, we get a glimpse into the rustic charm and raw thrill of buffalo hunting. We see the bonds formed, the lessons learned, and the experiences that shaped the men of the Old West. It's a journey that takes us beyond the confines of our living rooms and into the heart of a buffalo campsite.
In conclusion, this episode not only offers a fascinating insight into buffalo hunting expeditions in the Old West but also paints a vivid picture of life in a bygone era. It's a captivating blend of history, adventure, and storytelling that transports us to the heart of the buffalo hunting experience. And through it all, we have Josiah Mooar - a master storyteller and a veteran buffalo hunter - guiding us every step of the way.
Observing the buffalo in their natural habitat was half the thrill of the hunt. These majestic creatures, with their curious actions and unique behavior, presented an intriguing spectacle. The sharpshooting skills, the killing of the buffalo, and the skinning process were all part of the day's work.
Every detail mattered - from the selection of the Sharp's 50 rifle, the construction of the shooting stand, to the critical shot under the buffalo's foreshoulder. Each bullet had to count. And as Jim pointed out, one bullet from a professional was worth more than a score from an amateur.
But the hunt was only part of the story. Back at the camp, the hides were cured, and the meat was smoked. The camaraderie, the laughter, the shared stories around the campfire, and the occasional threats added to the richness of the experience. It was a life of hard work, but it was also a life filled with unforgettable moments.
Listening to Josiah Wright Mooar recollections, you can almost smell the smoking meat, feel the grit of the plains under your boots, and hear the echoes of laughter and tales around the campfire. His vivid narratives bring to life a time and a way of life that's long past, yet still holds a fascination for us.
Each day, from dawn to dusk, was an adventure, a challenge, and a celebration of life in the wild, rugged terrain of the Old West. It was a world where the buffalo roamed freely, where the plains echoed with the sounds of hunting expeditions, and where men like Jim White and Josiah Mooar carved out a life amidst the beauty and harshness of nature.
Through Josiah's eyes, we get a glimpse into the rustic charm and raw thrill of buffalo hunting. We see the bonds formed, the lessons learned, and the experiences that shaped the men of the Old West. It's a journey that takes us beyond the confines of our living rooms and into the heart of a buffalo campsite.
In conclusion, this episode not only offers a fascinating insight into buffalo hunting expeditions in the Old West but also paints a vivid picture of life in a bygone era. It's a captivating blend of history, adventure, and storytelling that transports us to the heart of the buffalo hunting experience. And through it all, we have Josiah Mooar - a master storyteller and a veteran buffalo hunter - guiding us every step of the way.
Buffalo Days Part Six:
Riding with Buffalo Herd: An Unforgettable Stampede and the Harsh Reality of Frontier Survival
Today, we take you on a journey into the Wild West, a time of struggle, survival, and transformation. In this post, we delve into the experiences of a buffalo runner turned entrepreneur, as discussed in our latest podcast episode, "Riding with the Herd in the Wild West."
Imagine the prairie, a seemingly endless expanse of land, enveloped by the ominous rumble of an imminent buffalo stampede. This was the everyday reality of buffalo runners. The palpable tension and adrenaline of the chase were as much a part of their lives as the air they breathed.
These men had to contend not only with the inherent danger of their profession but also with the harsh elements of the frontier. The brutal waste of buffalo hides left to spoil in the rain, and the shocking sight of carcasses strewn across the plains painted a stark picture of the grim realities of life on the frontier.
But this life was not just about struggle and survival. There was also a transformative journey, marked by unexpected turns and new beginnings. One such story is that of our protagonist, who made a surprising transition from buffalo runner to entrepreneur.
As a businessman, his world changed dramatically. Instead of thundering herds and wide-open plains, his reality became one of a man making money of the buffalo hide trade.
What does this tell us about the era? The Wild West was a time of immense change and adaptation. Individuals had to be resourceful and resilient to survive. And while the brutal aspects of frontier life are often highlighted, it's essential to remember that it was also a time of opportunity and reinvention.
The wild west was more than just cowboys and saloons; it was a crucible that shaped individuals and the nation itself. From the hard work of the buffalo runners to the grit of the entrepreneur, these stories remind us of the resilience and adaptability of those who lived during this fascinating era.
This narrative of struggle, transformation, and survival paints a vivid picture of life in the Wild West. So, let's not forget the buffalo runners, the entrepreneurs, and all those who lived and breathed this unforgettable era. Their stories continue to resonate, reminding us of our history and the incredible resilience of the human spirit.
In the end, we can learn a lot from the past. The story of the buffalo runner turned business man serves as a testament to human adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. And perhaps, in these challenging times, this is a lesson we can all take to heart.
Imagine the prairie, a seemingly endless expanse of land, enveloped by the ominous rumble of an imminent buffalo stampede. This was the everyday reality of buffalo runners. The palpable tension and adrenaline of the chase were as much a part of their lives as the air they breathed.
These men had to contend not only with the inherent danger of their profession but also with the harsh elements of the frontier. The brutal waste of buffalo hides left to spoil in the rain, and the shocking sight of carcasses strewn across the plains painted a stark picture of the grim realities of life on the frontier.
But this life was not just about struggle and survival. There was also a transformative journey, marked by unexpected turns and new beginnings. One such story is that of our protagonist, who made a surprising transition from buffalo runner to entrepreneur.
As a businessman, his world changed dramatically. Instead of thundering herds and wide-open plains, his reality became one of a man making money of the buffalo hide trade.
What does this tell us about the era? The Wild West was a time of immense change and adaptation. Individuals had to be resourceful and resilient to survive. And while the brutal aspects of frontier life are often highlighted, it's essential to remember that it was also a time of opportunity and reinvention.
The wild west was more than just cowboys and saloons; it was a crucible that shaped individuals and the nation itself. From the hard work of the buffalo runners to the grit of the entrepreneur, these stories remind us of the resilience and adaptability of those who lived during this fascinating era.
This narrative of struggle, transformation, and survival paints a vivid picture of life in the Wild West. So, let's not forget the buffalo runners, the entrepreneurs, and all those who lived and breathed this unforgettable era. Their stories continue to resonate, reminding us of our history and the incredible resilience of the human spirit.
In the end, we can learn a lot from the past. The story of the buffalo runner turned business man serves as a testament to human adaptability and resilience in the face of adversity. And perhaps, in these challenging times, this is a lesson we can all take to heart.
The Founding of Dodge City: Episode 2: Buffalo Days
From the very first, Dodge City bid fair to become one of the leading communities of the yet, embryo west. As has been said, she was located in the very heart of one of the best sections of the...buffalo range and, because of the proximity of the fort, was frequented by nearly all the buffalo hunters of that region.
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In Episode 2, Buffalo Days, Brad Smalley and Mike King provide the historical accounts of the establishment of the buffalo trade beginning with the wanton slaughter of the buffalo during the birth of the Industrial Age. The presentation conveys how one hide dealer by the name of Charles Rath becomes one of the first speculators for securing hides for the development of factory belts. The presentation concludes with Richard Dodge at Pawnee Rock looking out over the valley and describing the Great Southern Buffalo Herd coming north for their summer grass. The presentation is based on the book Buffalo Days written by Mike King and narrated by Brad Smalley. https://amzn.to/3x2iAx9
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Buffalo Capital
Dodge immediately became a major shipping point for buffalo hunters. By 1873 some 2,000 hunters roamed western Kansas. In a three-year period, 850,000 hides were shipped east out of Dodge, 754,529 of those in 1873. That same year, 11Ž2 million pounds of buffalo meat and 50 carloads of buffalo tongues were also shipped out.
Dodge City became the buffalo capital of the west and buffalo hides towered along Front Street awaiting shipment. Filthy buffalo hunters and traders filled the town’s establishment and the term "stinker” was coined.
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The Great Southern Buffalo Herd of 1872
Buffalo StampedeIt was at that moment when I was startled out of a restless sleep by a faint roar. This was a steady roar that penetrated into the ground beneath me. My mind rushed into sudden consciousness. I thought about every possible catastrophe from a cloudburst to water rushing down from somewhere up the stream.
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In the darkness, I hurried out of my tent and looked upstream for a luminous line of watery foam coming toward me.
But I realized the sound was not from the creek as the sound struck my ears once again - the sound was coming from the prairie. To add to the excitement, the ground began to shake beneath my feet. I could see out into the darkness a faint unbroken line of buffalo bearing down upon our camp. I began shouting orders to the sentries, an alert to what was about to befall us. I ordered them to abandon their watch and climb up the low bluffs. The top of the bluffs was a recognizable place where they would be safe above the camp and the prairie. The scene was a baffling one. Like the ebbing of a tremendous tide, the countless throng receded. Nothing could be seen as far as the eye could reach but one surging mass, black against the night sky, moving in gigantic billow. The loudest peal of thunder seemed insignificant in comparison to the confused trampling of numberless hoofs. Excerpts from the book Buffalo Days |
Death of an Endless Resource
The growing season for buffalo grass started with earliest spring and it spread over the ground like a vine. In those early days, before the soil was robbed of its fertility, when some grass grew as tall as a horse’s back. The buffalo grass was seldom more than six inches high. Its closed curled leaf looked some-an like moss and it cured on the stalk, when it was actually and more nutritious in the fall and winter than at any or time. But its most remarkable quality was that despite continuous grazing and the pounding of millions of hoofs it came year after year.
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The migrating herds of buffalo, would graze slowly northward until summer and south again for the winter. When the spring migration started with the greening of the grass, the first buffalo would appear, singly and in groups of two and three. This migration was an advance notice to hunters that the herd was moving.
In 1870, General George Crook estimated for the government that there were fifty million buffalo on the plains, ten million of them grazing between Fort Dodge and Camp Supply. During the 1860s, buffalo had been slaughtered by white men for pleasure for warm winter garments and meat to feed the railroad gangs who pushed the steel of the Kansas Pacific and Santa Fe railroads across Kansas.
Hide hunters had taken their harvest only during the winter when the bulls obtained their heavy coats. In 1871, word spread to Kansas of a new market for buffalo hides. Machine designers found that buffalo leather was quite serviceable as power belting. With the increased demand for hides, hunting could extend year-round, and cows and calves and the superbly robed bulls would become the victim of the hunters.
Hide hunters had taken their harvest only during the winter when the bulls obtained their heavy coats. In 1871, word spread to Kansas of a new market for buffalo hides. Machine designers found that buffalo leather was quite serviceable as power belting. With the increased demand for hides, hunting could extend year-round, and cows and calves and the superbly robed bulls would become the victim of the hunters.
In the next decade, the hide hunters exterminated nearly every buffalo. Colonel Dodge would later write, “where there were myriads of buffalo the year before, there were now myriads of carcasses. The air was foul with a sickening stench, and the vast plain which only a short twelve months before teemed with animal life was a dead, solitary desert.”
Unearthing the Buffalo Dystopia: The Catastrophe of Overhunting and the Medicine Lodge Treaty Consequences
Imagine the southern plains once teeming with an estimated 50 million buffaloes, a resource so vast it was considered inexhaustible. Then picture it transforming into a desolate, putrid desert, the aftermath of a rampant hunting spree fueled by the discovery of buffalo leather by tanneries worldwide, the westward migration of war veterans, and the establishment of railroads. This was the harsh reality that unfolded in the late 19th century, a pivotal and often ignored chapter of American history.
The pursuit of quick wealth led to the unintentional theft of the Native Americans' livelihood and the severe disruption of natural replenishment, leaving the plains a wasteland and the once thriving buffalo population in shambles. This devastating period marked by the reckless hunting of buffalo for their hides, and leaving their meat to rot under the sun, was a depreciation that the Native Americans could never understand. For them, the buffalo was a walking storehouse, providing everything from clothing to fuel for the campfire.
The crisis reached its peak in 1872, when the big hunt left the Arkansas buffalo herd in ruins and hunters began to encroach on the Native American hunting grounds in southwestern Kansas. The shocking scale of devastation was so profound that the plains, once bustling with buffalo life, were now filled with a sickening stench from the myriad of carcasses left to rot.
This period also witnessed the controversial Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867. The treaty was made to reserve the rights for Native American tribes such as the Kayawas, Comanches, Southern Cheyennes, and Arapahos. However, as buffalo hunters began to encroach on these protected lands, the treaty's implications and enforcement came into question.
As the central buffalo herd neared extinction, new hunting grounds had to be established. In search of these new herds, hunters began venturing into the Texas Panhandle, leading to further controversy as this land was not included in the Medicine Lodge Treaty. The military patrols were given the strictest orders to confiscate the buffalo hunters' mule teams, wagons, and supplies if caught crossing the Cimarron.
This in-depth exploration of the buffalo crisis and the Medicine Lodge Treaty paints a stark picture of a time of rapid change and devastating loss. It's a stark reminder of the unintended consequences of unchecked ambition and the delicate balance between progress and preservation. Understanding this period in our history is critical, not only for its historical significance but also for the lessons it offers for our present and future.
The pursuit of quick wealth led to the unintentional theft of the Native Americans' livelihood and the severe disruption of natural replenishment, leaving the plains a wasteland and the once thriving buffalo population in shambles. This devastating period marked by the reckless hunting of buffalo for their hides, and leaving their meat to rot under the sun, was a depreciation that the Native Americans could never understand. For them, the buffalo was a walking storehouse, providing everything from clothing to fuel for the campfire.
The crisis reached its peak in 1872, when the big hunt left the Arkansas buffalo herd in ruins and hunters began to encroach on the Native American hunting grounds in southwestern Kansas. The shocking scale of devastation was so profound that the plains, once bustling with buffalo life, were now filled with a sickening stench from the myriad of carcasses left to rot.
This period also witnessed the controversial Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867. The treaty was made to reserve the rights for Native American tribes such as the Kayawas, Comanches, Southern Cheyennes, and Arapahos. However, as buffalo hunters began to encroach on these protected lands, the treaty's implications and enforcement came into question.
As the central buffalo herd neared extinction, new hunting grounds had to be established. In search of these new herds, hunters began venturing into the Texas Panhandle, leading to further controversy as this land was not included in the Medicine Lodge Treaty. The military patrols were given the strictest orders to confiscate the buffalo hunters' mule teams, wagons, and supplies if caught crossing the Cimarron.
This in-depth exploration of the buffalo crisis and the Medicine Lodge Treaty paints a stark picture of a time of rapid change and devastating loss. It's a stark reminder of the unintended consequences of unchecked ambition and the delicate balance between progress and preservation. Understanding this period in our history is critical, not only for its historical significance but also for the lessons it offers for our present and future.
Buffalo Pictures Courtesy of Joshua Roesener
Extermination of American Bison from 1870 - 1889
“Each spring as grass growing weather moved northward with the sun the buffalo herds followed to spend the summer in the Dakotas, Montana, and Canada. With the approach of snow to the northern plains, they turned south again to winter in the valleys of the Republican, the Smoky Hill, the Solomon, the Arkansas, Cimarron, Canadian, and the Brazos rivers. Accounts of the enormous numbers of Bison are well-founded: 200,000-500,000-1 million individuals in a single herd. Most herds were smaller: several tens of thousands of Bison in a herd was more typical, the larger herds forming during seasonal movements. Bison had to move around the prairie, since their enormous numbers in concentrated herds soon consumed the available forage.
A hunter could stand on a high ridge to spot a herd. They first appeared to be a solid mass but looking more closely he saw the herd was divided into small groups, 25 to 30 buffaloes spread loosely over an acre. The size of the groups increased, in numbers, until finally, as far as the eye could see, the whole country was covered with them, moving slowly toward the south, grazing as they went.
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Sometimes a small herd would be made up entirely of old bulls, driven from the main herd by the young bulls. A hunter liked to spot one of these herds for the old bulls’ hides were worth more money, sometimes as much as $2.50 while the others often-times brought only a dollar. They were more valuable to the hide hunters from September to March than at any other season for they had come into their heavy winter coats. The buffalo grazed on the succulent buffalo grass, not much to look at either green or cured, but very nutritious.”