1836 Podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast tells the story of Denver “Bull” Randleman.Born in 1920 in Rector, Arkansas, Bull grew up during the Great Depression, dropped out of school to support his family, and later enlisted in the U.S. Army. He joined Easy Company, 101st Airborne, earning the nickname “Bull” for his massive build and deep voice. A natural leader praised by Major Richard Winters, he jumped into Normandy on D-Day, survived a brutal bayonet fight in Holland, and fought through the Battle of the Bulge. Highly decorated with the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, he helped liberate Europe. After the war, he built a successful life in Arkansas and Louisiana while raising a family. His story reached millions through Band of Brothers, where he was portrayed by Michael Cudlitz.A quiet Arkansas hero who answered the call.Band of Brothers | Easy Company | WWII | D-Day | 101st Airborne | Arkansas HistoryLike, comment, and subscribe for more stories of Arkansas heroes!#arkansas #history #podcast

Hidden in the Ozarks near Eureka Springs lies the forgotten story of Dinosaur World, later known as John Agar’s Land of Kong—one of Arkansas’s strangest roadside attractions. Built in 1967 by eccentric entrepreneur Ola Farwell with the help of sculptor Emmet Sullivan, the park featured life-sized concrete dinosaurs, cavemen, and a towering 40-foot King Kong statue tied to Hollywood actor John Agar.This episode explores the rise and fall of the once-popular Ozark attraction, its connections to Hollywood, classic monster movies and roadside Americana, and how the abandoned park became an eerie, overgrown relic reclaimed by the forest.Dinosaurs #Hollywood

This episode of the 1836 podcast, continues the counties of Arkansas series, by profiling Chicot County. Chicot County, Arkansas, is a land shaped by water, history, and resilience. From the ancient formation of Lake Chicot—the largest natural lake in Arkansas and the largest oxbow lake in North America—to the rich Delta soil that fueled the Cotton Kingdom, this episode explores the county’s remarkable story. Discover Native American heritage, French exploration, the legend of Hernando de Soto’s burial, the rise of plantation agriculture, and the Civil War events that left lasting scars on the region. Learn about the enduring legacy of African American communities, influential figures like Robert L. Hill and Ruby Grant Martin, and the traditions that continue to define Lake Village and the surrounding Delta. Through folklore, river legends, and generations of perseverance, Chicot County stands as one of Arkansas’s most historic and fascinating places. Available on all major platforms. #Arkansas #History #Podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues the Arkansas Governors series by sharing the remarkable and complicated life of John Selden Roane — lawyer, soldier, duelist, and the youngest person ever elected Governor of Arkansas. From his early days in Tennessee to building a career in frontier Arkansas, Roane rose fast. He became Speaker of the Arkansas House, fought heroically in the Mexican-American War (commanding troops at Buena Vista), famously dueled Albert Pike, and was elected governor at just 32 years old in 1849. As governor, he championed roads, education, and state development. Later, he served as a Confederate brigadier general during the Civil War. His story mirrors the ambition, conflict, and transformation of both Arkansas and America in the 1800s. A true frontier leader whose legacy is still felt in the Natural State. Available on all major platforms. #Arkansas #History #Podcast #ArkansasHistory #JohnSeldenRoane #MexicanAmericanWar #CivilWar #AmericanHistory

In 1938, the quiet town of Pocahontas became the center of one of America’s most shocking true-crime cases. When a skeleton was discovered beneath a storm cellar on the Hebner property, authorities uncovered a chilling story of deception, fraud, and murder. At the heart of it all was Cora Hebner—an intelligent, composed woman whose “lonely hearts” marriage scams had already left a trail of broken lives across several states.As investigators pieced together the mystery of her missing husband, Will Hebner, the case drew national attention. But before she could stand trial, Cora took her own life, leaving behind a defiant note and countless unanswered questions. Her story remains one of Arkansas’s most fascinating and unsettling tales—a haunting mix of romance, greed, betrayal, and secrets buried deep in the Ozarks.#arkansas #history #podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast, shares the story of Heck Thomas. Henry Andrew "Heck" Thomas was a legendary Old West lawman and United States Deputy Marshal based out of Fort Smith, Arkansas. He is credited with bringing order to the lawless "Indian Territory" and is most famous as one of the "Three Guardsmen," a trio of elite marshals who arrested or killed over 300 outlaws. #Arkansas #History #Podcast #Educational

Long before Arkansas was settled, ancient cultures left behind powerful traces of their lives—painted and carved into stone across the Ozarks. This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares about prehistoric rock art, known as pictographs and petroglyphs, found in places like Petit Jean Mountain and beyond. From mysterious symbols and human figures to sunbursts and animal forms, these markings reveal a deep cultural and spiritual connection to the land. But what do they truly represent? Messages of daily life… spiritual beliefs… or something more mysterious—possibly even art inspired by the otherworldly? Many of these sites remain hidden or protected today, preserving a fragile and enduring link to Arkansas’s distant past. #Arkansas #History #Podcast #ArkansasHistory #ArkansasPodcast

In 1978, law student turned drug trafficker Larry Porter Chism, of Forest City, Arkansas, pulled off one of the boldest escapes in American history. From a supervised bowling alley outing in Tennessee, he shot a guard, hijacked a small Cessna plane, and forced it toward his Arkansas hometown. After an emergency crash landing near Marianna, a high-speed chase through the Ozarks ended with the FBI arresting him near Salem in Fulton County. But just months later — in December 1978, days after turning 30 — Chism escaped again from the Lonoke County Jail and vanished. He has remained free for nearly 50 years. As of this video, he would be 77 years old, and is one of the longest-running fugitives on the U.S. Marshals’ 15 Most Wanted list. Considered armed and dangerous, he faces decades in prison for armed robbery, narcotics trafficking, kidnapping, airplane hijacking, and escape. Featured on Unsolved Mysteries, Chism reportedly disappeared deeper underground. His whereabouts remain unknown. Was he helped by family? Did he start a new life under an alias? Or has he been dead for years?#arkansas #history #podcast #truecrime

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues the Counties of Arkansas series by profiling Carrol County. From its early days as Osage hunting grounds to pioneer settlement in the 1830s, this frontier county faced isolation, Civil War guerrilla conflicts, and the loss of land to form Boone County. The county seat moved from Carrollton to Berryville, while the 1879 discovery of healing springs transformed Eureka Springs into a world-famous Victorian resort town, complete with the infamous Crescent Hotel and its dark history of medical fraud. Today, Carroll County proudly maintains its dual identity: Berryville as the agricultural and governmental heart, and Eureka Springs as a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and tourism. Explore iconic landmarks like Beaver Lake, the Great Passion Play, Christ of the Ozarks, Thorncrown Chapel, and the historic Beaver Bridge. Blending stunning natural scenery, deep-rooted traditions, and preserved Victorian charm, Carroll County, Arkansas, offers a perfect mix of history, mystery, and Ozark mountain soul.#arkansas #history #podcast #arkansashistory #arkansashistorypodcast #education #educational

On March 16, 1899, in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, a deadly power struggle over illegal gambling and graft exploded into one of the bloodiest gunfights in American history. Police Chief Thomas Toler and his officers clashed with Sheriff Bob Williams and his deputies on Central Avenue. In a chaotic shootout that left five men dead—including the police chief himself—lawmen turned their guns on each other in front of shocked citizens. More deadly than the O.K. Corral, this forgotten Wild West-style massacre shocked the nation. No one ever went to prison. Today, brass markers on the sidewalks still show exactly where the bullets flew. The full insane story of corruption, betrayal, and revenge in America’s most famous spa town.#HotSprings #WildWest #TrueCrime #ArkansasHistory #Gunfight

This episode of the 1836 podcast, continues the Governors of Arkansas series, by profiling Richard C. Byrd (c.1805–1854), an early Arkansas political leader who briefly served as acting governor in 1849 during a key transitional moment in the state’s history. Born in the Mississippi Territory (present-day Alabama), he moved to Arkansas in 1826, where he built a life as a merchant and farmer before entering public service. Byrd held several important roles, including territorial auditor, member of the territorial legislature, state representative, and state senator. As President of the Arkansas Senate, he became acting governor on January 10, 1849, following the resignation of Thomas S. Drew. His time as governor lasted just over three months, ending on April 19, 1849, when leadership passed to John S. Roane. Byrd then returned to private life in Jefferson County, where he remained until his death on June 1, 1854. Though his tenure was short, Byrd played a meaningful role in Arkansas’s early government, helping shape the state during its formative years after statehood.

Jacob Conrad Yoes, known as "Black Jake" for his jet-black hair or "Big Jake" for his imposing build, was born December 3, 1839, in rural Washington County, Arkansas, to a German-descended Methodist minister father and pioneer family in the Ozark Mountains. Leaving home at 17 with just $2, he worked lead mines in Missouri, married Mary Ann Reed in 1858, and later served as a Union sergeant in the 1st Arkansas Cavalry during the Civil War—fighting bushwhackers, surviving wounds and capture, and declining a lieutenant commission before honorable discharge in 1865. Post-war, he became a sheriff, legislator, and savvy entrepreneur, opening stores along the Frisco Railway during the timber boom, adding mills, hotels, and a canning factory to build a regional business empire. In 1889, President Benjamin Harrison appointed him U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas under "Hanging Judge" Isaac Parker, overseeing 200 deputies—including his sons—in the lawless Indian Territory, pursuing outlaws like those tied to the Dalton Gang (though direct involvement is legendary). Later focusing on real estate along the Arkansas River, he developed a community that became Yoestown in Crawford County after his death. Yoes passed away February 6, 1906, at 66 and was buried in Fort Smith National Cemetery as a Union veteran. His remarkable journey—from frontier farm boy to multimillionaire-equivalent entrepreneur, soldier, and federal lawman—embodies Old West grit, innovation, and the taming of America's heartland, with local lore even linking his life to John Wayne's Big Jake film.#Arkansas #History #Podcast #ArkansasHistoryPodcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues the Counties of Arkansas series, profiling Calhoun County — a quiet, deeply rooted corner of south-central Arkansas shaped by timber, tradition, and resilience. From Native American mound sites and frontier settlement to Civil War disruption, Reconstruction, the timber boom, and the tragic Hampton Race War of 1892, we trace the county’s layered past. We explore the founding of Hampton, the rise and fall of cotton, the impact of the Shumaker Naval Ammunition Depot, and the story behind the “Hogskin County” nickname and annual Hogskin Holidays Festival. Featuring figures such as John C. Calhoun, John Roy Steelman, Raymond Henry Bass, and filmmaker Charles B. Pierce, this episode highlights how one of Arkansas’s smallest and least populous counties reflects the broader story of rural America — endurance, hardship, and identity tied to the land.#Arkansas #History #Podcast

This episode of the 1835 Podcast shares the complex and controversial life of Albert Pike. Pike passed Harvard's exams at 16 but headed west instead—enduring a brutal 1831 trek to Santa Fe before settling in Arkansas in 1832. He taught school, edited newspapers, married well, built a grand Little Rock home, became a leading lawyer for Native tribes, published frontier poetry, fought in the Mexican-American War, and reluctantly joined the Confederacy as a brigadier general—commanding Native troops at the chaotic Battle of Pea Ridge in 1862 before resigning amid controversy. He served 32 years as Sovereign Grand Commander of the Scottish Rite Freemasonry's Southern Jurisdiction, where he revised rituals and wrote the influential Morals and Dogma. Pike died in 1891; his remains rest in D.C.'s House of the Temple. Rumors of KKK leadership lack primary evidence, though his post-war views and secret white societies fueled debate. His 1901 Masonic statue in Washington, D.C.—the only outdoor Confederate general monument there—was toppled and burned in 2020 protests, restored, and reinstalled in late 2025 under federal orders, reigniting national debates. Despite controversy, Pike's Arkansas legacy endures through preserved sites like his home and the Albert Pike Memorial Temple. A tale of ambition, intellect, war, and complexity in 19th-century America.#Arkansas #History #Podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues the Governors of Arkansas series by profiling the state's third governor, Thomas Stevenson Drew. Join us as we explore the humble yet resilient life of one of Arkansas’s early political figures. Born in 1802 in Tennessee, Drew arrived in the Arkansas Territory as a young man, supporting himself as a traveling peddler, schoolteacher, and farmer before rising through land speculation and politics to the governorship in 1844. Amid the state's financial turmoil following the Real Estate Bank collapse, he championed fiscal restraint and internal improvements. Reelected in 1848, Drew made history as the only Arkansas governor to resign mid-term—citing the inadequate salary and crushing personal debts from railroad ventures. Along the way, we delve into the origins of Drew County, created and named in his honor during his tenure. It’s a compelling tale of perseverance, public service, and the harsh realities of frontier ambition in young Arkansas.#Arkansas #history #podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast, shares the story of Peter Caulder, a free Black man, a War of 1812 veteran, and a frontier settler who spent more than thirty years building a life in northern Arkansas. After helping establish Fort Smith, Caulder chose to remain in the Arkansas Territory, where he legally acquired land, raised a family, and became part of the Ozark frontier along the White River. But as Arkansas moved from frontier territory to slaveholding state, the laws that once allowed his freedom and property slowly turned against him. In 1859, despite his military service and decades of residence, Peter Caulder was forced to leave Arkansas under threat of enslavement—driven out not by failure or crime, but by law. This is the forgotten story of a man who lived as an Arkansan, helped build the state’s early frontier, and was ultimately expelled by the very government he had served.

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues the Arkansas Counties series by exploring the history of Bradley County, Arkansas. From its early settlement and Native American roots to its growth through agriculture, timber, and local industry, we trace the county’s past and the people who shaped it—including Captain Hugh Bradley, the man it was named after. A must-listen for Arkansas history enthusiasts and anyone curious about the counties of Arkansas.

Have you ever walked across a stone dam at Devil’s Den, hiked trails at Mount Nebo, or stayed in Mather Lodge at Petit Jean? Then you’ve already seen the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps in Arkansas—even if you didn’t know its name. During the Great Depression, the CCC gave thousands of young men a job, skills, and purpose while transforming Arkansas’ parks, forests, and roads. From building lodges, cabins, and bridges to planting millions of trees and creating lakes, their work still shapes how we explore the state today. This episode shares the remarkable legacy of the CCC in Arkansas, including stories of segregation, education, and the lasting impact on landscapes you may visit every day.#arkansas #history #podcast #arkansashistorypodcast #CCC #ArkansasHistory #CivilianConservationCorps #HistoricParks #GreatDepression

This episode of the 1836 Podcast uncovers the overlooked Arkansas connections that helped shape the rise of Wild Bill Hickok—revealing how a quiet Ozark town left its mark on an American legend. Long before he became a Wild West icon, Hickok rode into the remote Ozarks and spent time in Yellville, Arkansas, where he crossed paths with Confederate veteran and gambler Dave Tutt. Their unlikely friendship—complicated by personal rivalries and rumored romantic entanglements—set off a chain of events that ultimately led to Springfield, Missouri, and one of the most famous pistol duels in frontier history. Thank you for your continued support! Don’t forget to check out our merch links for even more ways to support the show! You can help the 1836 Podcast grow by simply subscribing, liking, and sharing.MERCH LINKSCap, mug, hoodies, and more on SPRING:https://1836podcast.creator-spring.comT-Shirt, Tumbler and more on AMAZON:https://www.amazon.com/shop/woopigsumo/list/2LBSWAR3Z7GB8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_XYH7H1EHBSS4E5Z34WJZ#arkansas #history #podcast #arkansashistory #arkansashistorypodcast #WildBill #WildBillHickok #yellville #springfield

This episode of the 1836 podcast, shares the hidden history of the New Madrid Fault and how it reshaped Arkansas and the Mississippi River Valley. In 1811–1812, a series of massive earthquakes shook the early United States, formed new lakes, and even caused parts of the Mississippi River to run backward. Today, scientists warn that another major quake could strike again. This episode explores what happened, what could happen next, and how it could impact modern Arkansas.#Arkansas #History #Podcast

On this episode of the 1836 Podcast, the Arkansas Governors Series continues with Acting Governor Samuel Adams. In 1844, self-taught Arkansas planter Samuel Adams unexpectedly became acting governor for just six months after Archibald Yell resigned to join Congress. Amid drought, economic hardship, and personal illness, the 38-year-old Democrat continued policies on roads, education, and fiscal discipline—leaving office with a rare $125,000 treasury surplus. From his candlelit boyhood studies to swearing in as representative (1836), senator (1840), acting governor, and later state treasurer (until 1849), Adams embodied quiet competence. Stepfather to future Confederate General James Fagan, his portrait later appeared on Civil War treasury notes as a symbol of stability. This episode uncovers the unsung story of a frontier leader whose brief, steady hand helped shape early Arkansas. Ideal for fans of overlooked American political history. Please continue to support the podcast by liking, sharing, and subscribing! And let us know what other Arkansas history topics you'd like to hear next.#Arkansas #History #Podcast #ArkansasHistory #ArkansasHistoryPodcast

Dive into one of America's bloodiest and most forgotten family feuds – the Tutt-Everett War (also known as the Marion County War) in 1840s Arkansas Ozarks. What started as fierce political rivalry between Democratic Everetts and Whig Tutts (allied with the Kings) exploded into years of brutal violence: saloon brawls, ambushes, assassinations, and even martial law declared by the governor. From the 1844 "June Fight" to deadly gunfights in Yellville and the shocking 1849 King family massacre, this feud claimed dozens of lives and forced state militia intervention. Discover how whiskey-fueled politics turned neighbors into mortal enemies in the wild frontier. If you love stories like the Hatfield-McCoy feud but want the real, gritty history of the Old West in Arkansas – this is it!Like, Share and Subscribe for more hidden Arkansas history stories!#TuttEverettWar #ArkansasHistory #FamilyFeud #OldWest #AmericanHistoryMERCH LINKSBook: The Everett, Tutt and King War Of Marion County https://amzn.to/3NtNaLGCap, mug, hoodies, and more on SPRING:https://1836podcast.creator-spring.comT-Shirt, Tumbler and more on AMAZON:https://www.amazon.com/shop/woopigsumo/list/2LBSWAR3Z7GB8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_XYH7H1EHBSS4E5Z34WJZ

As 2025 draws to a close, join us for a special year-in-review episode of the 1836 Podcast! Let's count down the Top 10 episodes of 2025, ranked by analytics from YouTube, Spotify, and other platforms based on views, listens, and downloads.Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or you’re just discovering the show, this recap is the perfect way to relive the year’s biggest highlights or catch up on any episodes you might have missed.2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year ahead, with plenty of fresh, exciting stories on the way. We’d love to hear from you: What was your favorite episode from 2025, and what topics would you like us to cover in 2026? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!As always, thank you for making this year amazing—don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend.Here’s to an even better 2026! Links to Merch!Cap, mug, shirts, hoodies, stickers & more on SPRING:https://1836podcast.creator-spring.comT-Shirt, Tumbler & more on AMAZON:https://www.amazon.com/shop/woopigsumo/list/2LBSWAR3Z7GB8?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_XYH7H1EHBSS4E5Z34WJZ

On March 5, 1959, a fire raged through the locked dormitory at Arkansas’s Negro Boys Industrial School. 69 Black boys, aged 13–17, were trapped—doors padlocked from outside, windows covered in heavy iron mesh, no fire escapes or alarms. 21 boys died. 48 survived, many badly burned after clawing through screens with bare hands. This preventable disaster stemmed from chronic neglect, racial disparity, and ignored warnings. Many boys were there for minor offenses like truancy or homelessness. A grand jury criticized the system but charged no one. The site was bulldozed within days. For decades, the victims lay in unmarked graves until a 2018 memorial finally honored their names. This episode shares that dark, forgotten chapter of injustice.#arkansas #history #arkansashistory #ozarks #podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast, continues the Governors of Arkansas series by profiling the state's second governor, Archibald Yell. Join us as we explore the remarkable life of one of Arkansas’s most dynamic early leaders. Born in 1797 on the Tennessee frontier, Archibald Yell fought alongside Andrew Jackson at the Battle of New Orleans, rose to become Arkansas’s second governor, represented the state in Congress, and ultimately met a heroic death leading a cavalry charge in the Mexican-American War. Along the way, we uncover the stories behind Yell County and the town of Yellville — including the legendary $50 promise he made to rename the settlement, a debt that went unpaid for over a century until his descendants finally settled it in 2005. It’s a captivating story of ambition, courage, and the untamed spirit of the Old Southwest.#arkansas #history #arkansasgovernor #ozarks #podcast #arkansashistory

This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares the explosive true story of Ned Christie: a Cherokee national councilman turned fugitive who, in 1892, made his defiant last stand against a large Arkansas posse of US Marshalls, armed with guns, a cannon, dynamite, and a thousand-dollar bounty. Follow his five-year war against Judge Parker’s court—from the controversial and disputed killing that branded him an outlaw to the blazing siege that ended in 87 bullets and a body paraded through Fort Smith. Murderous outlaw… or framed Cherokee patriot? You decide.#Arkansas #History #Podcast #Ozarks #Oklahoma #Cherokee #Outlaw #Hero #WildWest #Frontier

This episode of the 1836 Podcast continues our Counties of Arkansas series by profiling Boone County. Boone County whispers tales of hideouts, heists, and heroes—where pioneer grit and outlaw legends forge a legacy as rugged and resilient as the land itself. From Jesse James hideouts and the notorious Henry Starr bank robbery to the roar of devastating great floods, ties to the Mountain Meadows Massacre, and the heroic legacies of Pulitzer Prize winners and Medal of Honor recipients, uncover why Boone County's blend of folklore, natural beauty, and modern resilience makes it a must-visit slice of Arkansas history.#arkansas #history #ozarks #podcast #boonecounty #jessejames #medalofhonor #pulitzerprize #folklore

This episode of the 1836 podcast, shares the tale of Jesse James in Arkansas. From his very first stagecoach robbery on the Malvern-Hot Springs road in 1874 to vanishing into the Ozark Mountains with the help of Confederate kin and allies like Belle Starr and Cole Younger, Jesse James treated Arkansas like a second home. Hear about his documented heists in Malvern and Bentonville, the family ties through the Cole-Younger network, the caves and hideouts still whispered about today, and the buried-gold legends that refuse to die. Guerrilla fighter, bank robber, folk hero — discover why the Natural State became Jesse James’ favorite sanctuary. #JesseJames #ArkansasHistory #OutlawLegend #WildWest #TrueCrime #Arkansas #Ozarks #History #Podcast #Missouri

This episode of the 1836 Podcast launches the Inaugural Arkansas Governor series, profiling James Sevier Conway, Arkansas’s first governor. From frontier surveyor to architect of early statehood, discover his contributions, challenges, and legacy, including Conway County and the city of Conway. A compelling dive into Arkansas’s formative years! Like, Share and Subscribe for more Arkansas history, tales and folklore. #ArkansasHistory #JamesSevierConway #FirstGovernor #arkansas #ozarks #history #podcast

This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares the true, unsettling tale of Andrew Hudspeth, executed in 1892 for a murder that may never have occurred. Accused of killing blacksmith George Watkins, who vanished in 1886, Hudspeth’s case—fueled by rumors of an affair with Watkins’ wife, Rebecca—shifted from Marion to Boone County for trial. Despite escaping jail in 1888 and hiding for over three years, he was recaptured, retried, and hanged on December 30, 1892, only for reports of Watkins to resurfacing alive in Kansas in 1893. This episode delves into the rushed trials, vigilante threats against Rebecca, her mysterious death in custody, and the absence of evidence. Discover how this injustice fueled outrage, briefly halted executions in Arkansas, and stands as a stark warning of frontier justice’s flaws.#arkansas #ozarks #history #podcast #marioncounty #boonecounty #washingtoncounty #yellville #Harrison #fayetteville #truecrime #conspiracy

In this episode of the 1836 Podcast, we dive deeper into our Arkansas County series with a spotlight on Benton County. Carved from Washington County on September 30, 1836, and named for Missouri Senator Thomas Hart Benton, this northwest Ozark treasure brims with folklore, Civil War secrets, and the meteoric rise of Bentonville as its bustling county seat. From the raw grit of early pioneers to its status as Arkansas's second-most populous county, join us to unearth the enduring legacy that shapes the Natural State. #Arkansas #History #Podcast #Ozarks #Benton #Bentonville #Walmart

This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares the little-known story of Al Capone’s secret escapes to Hot Springs, Arkansas, a notorious “open city” where gangsters like Scarface found sanctuary during Prohibition’s turbulent years. Far from Chicago’s bloody gang wars, Capone relaxed in the healing thermal baths, bet on horses at Oaklawn Park, and ran moonshine operations from a discreet dairy farm, all while holding court in a lavish suite at the Arlington Hotel. Discover how this Ozark haven, with its corrupt officials and unwritten truce among mobsters, offered Capone a rare blend of leisure and illicit business, revealing a complex side to America’s most infamous mobster. #Arkansas #History #Podcast #Ozarks #AlCapone #HotSprings #Prohibition #GangsterHistory #ArkansasHistory

This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares the remarkable life of Jimmy Driftwood, the Ozark bard who turned history lessons into Grammy-winning songs. From his humble beginnings in rural Arkansas to crafting iconic folk tunes like “The Battle of New Orleans,” Driftwood wove education, preservation, and advocacy into his music. Discover how this teacher-turned-musician founded the Ozark Folk Center, championed the Buffalo National River, and left an enduring cultural legacy. #ARKANSAS #OZARKS #HISTORY #PODCAST

This episode of the 1836 Podcast shares the untamed world of Friedrich Gerstäcker, the 19th-century German adventurer whose daring Arkansas exploits echo Mark Twain's Mississippi tales—but with fiercer grit and a hunter's edge. Born in Hamburg in 1816, Gerstäcker ditched a stifling apprenticeship for American freedom, landing in the Ozarks in 1838. We'll explore his life from savage bear attacks and epic hunts to his fame from his writings, which sparked German immigration waves—maybe even luring your own ancestors across the Atlantic.#arkansas #history #podcast #hunt #bear #attack

Discover the incredible story of Robert Franklin “Buster” Scott, the Ozark legend from Snowball, Arkansas, known for his massive size 42 feet! Born in 1911, Buster turned hardship into opportunity, touring carnivals in the 1930s to showcase his extraordinary feet, earning enough to buy a farm. A gentle giant with a knack for humor, he became a folk hero in Searcy County, leaving giant footprints in the Ozarks. #Arkansas #History #Folklore #Ozarks #Podcast

In this installment of the Arkansas County Series, we explore Baxter County. From prehistoric rock art and Osage roots to Jacob Wolf’s 1810 trading post and the 1892 assassination of Sheriff Abraham G. Byler—the state’s first documented sheriff killing—this Ozark gem’s story unfolds. Explore its Civil War struggles, the creation of Norfork and Bull Shoals dams, and its rise as a trout fishing and tourism haven. Join us for a journey through Baxter County’s resilient past! #Arkansas #History #Podcast #MountainHome #WhiteRiver #Norfork #Gassville #Cotter #Ozarks

This episode shares the life of Bill Doolin, the Arkansas-born outlaw who rose from a member of the Dalton Gang to the leader of the infamous "Wild Bunch", Doolin-Dalton Gang. From risky train heists to the deadly Battle of Ingalls, follow Doolin’s path of crime, his dramatic 1896 capture, daring jailbreak, and bloody end. Discover the legacy of this Wild West legend in a tale of grit and lawlessness!#Arkansas #Ozarks #History #podcast #WildWest #BillDoolin #OutlawHistory #WildBunch #DaltonGang

Discover the legendary life of Paul "Bear" Bryant, the iconic college football coach born in Moro Bottom, Arkansas. From wrestling a bear at 13 to leading Fordyce High to a state championship, Bryant's Arkansas roots shaped his grit and determination. Follow his journey from a star player at Alabama to coaching greatness, with six national championships and 13 SEC titles. Learn about humble beginnings in Arkansas, his revolutionary strategies, and his final days in 1983. A tribute to a football legend whose legacy lives on.#arkansas #history #podcast #collegefootball #alabama #rolltide #bama #rtr

This episode shares the story of James Black, the 19th-century blacksmith who crafted the legendary Bowie knife and possibly the Arkansas Toothpick. From his early days as a runaway silversmith to forging iconic blades in frontier Arkansas, explore Black’s triumphs, tragedies, and enduring legacy into his knives that shaped America. #arkansas #history #podcast #education #bladesmith #blacksmith #bowieknife

This episode revisits the controversial hanging of Odus Davidson, who was found guilty by a community of outrage and circumstantial evidence. Decades later, many still question his guilt. #Arkansas #History #Podcast

In our next installment of the Arkansas County Series, we dive into Ashley County. Uncover the captivating history and lively culture of this southeastern gem, founded in 1848. From its agricultural beginnings and booming timber industry to its roster of notable figures like NBA legend Scottie Pippen and True Grit author Charles Portis, we explore the county’s origins, vibrant towns like Hamburg and Crossett, significant events, and chilling folklore, including the mysterious Crossett Light and the Phantom Rider of Fountain Hill. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the past and present of this resilient Delta community.#arkansas #history #podcast #Ashley #county

In April 1981, a young woman’s body was found in a ditch in rural Ohio, wearing a distinctive buckskin poncho. Dubbed “Buckskin Girl,” she remained unidentified for 37 years. Strangled and beaten, her case went cold despite extensive investigations. In 2018, genetic genealogy revealed her identity: Marcia Lenore King, a 21-year-old from Little Rock, Arkansas. It was one of the first widely publicized cases where genetic genealogy was used to identify a Jane Doe, marking a significant milestone in forensic science. Though she was identified and her name was restored, her killer remains unknown. Explore the mystery, forensic breakthroughs, and ongoing quest for justice in this gripping true crime story.#arkansas #history #podcast #BuckskinGirl #ColdCase #TrueCrimeSources:-Miami County Sheriff’s Office, Case File and Press Release, April 2018.-DNA Doe Project, “Buckskin Girl Identified as Marcia King,” April 2018.-National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Case Summary, 2016.-Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation, Investigative Report, 1981.-Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, “Family of Marcia King Speaks on Identification,” April 2018.-DNA Doe Project, Annual Report on Genetic Genealogy Successes, 2025.-U.S. Customs Service, Pollen Analysis Report, 2016.-Miami Valley Regional Crime Laboratory, Forensic Analysis Summary, 2018.-Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cold Case Review, 1980s Midwest Murders, 2010.

In this episode, we explore the origins and history of Arkansas’ School Cave, believed to be the state’s first documented school, established in 1817 by Caleb Lindsey. Tucked within a cave near Ravenden Springs’ Hall’s Creek Canyon, this unique schoolhouse comes to life through its remarkable story.#Arkansas #History #Podcast #Interesting #Education #School #Cave

This episode explores the astonishing anomaly of diamonds in Arkansas - the only state in America. Formed by volcanic eruptions 100 million years ago, these treasures sparked a frenzy with finds like the massive Uncle Sam, the largest U.S. diamond ever. Hear stories of fortunate visitors at the world’s only public diamond mine, where you can dig and keep your discoveries! Perfect for history fans, treasure hunters, or adventurers. #arkansas #history #podcast #education #diamonds

Join us for the gripping story of "Sonny" Liston, a heavyweight boxing legend whose life was as complex as it was compelling. From his mysterious birth and childhood in rural Arkansas, to his rise as a fearsome world champion, Liston’s journey was marked by poverty, crime, and raw talent. Explore his dominant reign, controversial losses to Muhammad Ali, and the mysterious circumstances of his death in Las Vegas, shrouded in conspiracy theories. #arkansas #history #podcast #education #boxing #truecrime #conspiracytheories

Alongside our episodes on Arkansas’s history, people, places, events, and folklore, we’re launching a new series highlighting each county monthly, in alphabetical order. In this first installment, we profile Arkansas County, the state’s oldest, established on December 31, 1813. Nestled in the Arkansas Delta, its fertile lands thrive where the Arkansas and White Rivers flow near the Mississippi. Discover the Quapaw’s Osotouy village and Arkansas Post, the lower Mississippi Valley’s first European settlement from 1686. Step back to 1783 for the Revolutionary War’s only battle west of the Mississippi at Arkansas Post. Uncover the Civil War’s Battle of St. Charles and the tragic 1904 St. Charles Massacre. Visit Stuttgart, the “Duck and Rice Capital of the World,” hosting the World’s Championship Duck Calling Contest and Wings Over the Prairie Festival. Taste Gillett’s unique Coon Supper, a raccoon feast tradition since 1933, once attended by Bill Clinton. From DeWitt’s farming roots to the Arkansas Post National Memorial, Arkansas County weaves history and vibrant traditions.#arkansas #history #podcast

Discover the gritty true story of infamous Wild West outlaw, Dave Rudabaugh. From his humble beginnings in Illinois to his outlaw life in Arkansas, New Mexico, and beyond, we uncover the real history behind this notorious figure. Learn about his crimes, his ties to Billy the Kid, his daring jailbreak, and his brutal end in Mexico. We also debunk the "Arkansas Dave" myth from Young Guns II. #Arkansas #Ozarks #History #Podcast #DirtyDave #ArkansasDave #YoungGuns #OldWest #DaveRudabaugh #BillyTheKid #TrueCrime

Discover the chilling story of the 1980 Damascus, Arkansas, Titan II missile silo explosion, a near-catastrophic nuclear incident triggered by a dropped socket. This gripping narrative explores the bravery of airmen, the flaws in nuclear safety, and the lasting impact on a small town. Dive into a night when human error and sheer luck shaped history. #ARKANSAS #HISTORY #PODCAST #OZARKS

Join us as we explore Henry Rowe Schoolcraft’s epic 1818–1819 journey along Arkansas’s White River! We dive into the 25-year-old geologist’s 900-mile Ozark expedition, discovering minerals, mapping the frontier, and meeting early settlers. Discover how his expedition shaped the region’s future.

Join us as we share the gripping story of the last train robbery in Arkansas, which took place in the small town of Olyphant on November 3, 1893. This video dives into the dramatic heist of Train Number 51, where four bandits robbed passengers, killed beloved conductor William P. McNally, and sparked a sensational manhunt. Learn about the trial, the hangings of three robbers, and the legacy of this infamous event in Arkansas history.