The Brutal Truth of the Kansas Frontier: Raids, Captivity, and Controversy
Wild West Podcast
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Wild West Podcast
The Brutal Truth of the Kansas Frontier: Raids, Captivity, and Controversy
Jun 30, 2023
Michael King/Brad Smalley

Unearth the shocking details of the Kansas Frontier Conflict as we traverse its harrowing terrain in this riveting discussion with Jeff Broome and Brad Smalley. Brace yourself as we delve into the horrifying Solomon raids of August 1868 and the dreadful fate of the little Bell sisters at the hands of Black Kettle's band. The Indian Depredation Claims reveal the chilling accounts of Elizabeth Bell and her young daughter, Ellen - tales that will leave you with a profound understanding of the trials endured by these settlers.

The aftermath of these terrifying raids is no less chilling. We broach the heart-wrenching losses suffered by the Bell family, the Thompsons, and the Smiths. Hear the distressing experiences of Anna Morgan and Sarah White in captivity and the Baertoche family's dreadful ordeal. It's a sobering reminder of the brutality of the frontier and the grim reality of life in the Kansas plains during this violence-riddled period.

Finally, we sift through Alfred Sully's controversial report from August 19th at the Schermerhorn Ranch, a document that had a ripple effect on future military operations within the Indian Territory. We shed light on Mrs. Bacon's sworn statement and the audacious actions of the three Indians who attacked her cabin on August 10th. We aim to provide a nuanced understanding of this turbulent historical time through these stories and accounts. Join Jeff and Brad as we walk the path of our Kansas Frontier Conflict series, arming you with insights and perspectives that will reshape your understanding of this tumultuous period.

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