Mason-Dixon Wild West

The O'Reilly Factor

2012-01-19T21:09:00.003-05:00

I walked through the family room where The O'Reilly Factor was on while my husband was snoozing. Bill was just getting ready for quiz time and the subject was the Civil War. Woohoo! I sat down to watch.

The 54th Massachusetts, Stonewall Jackson, Robert Duvall -- for the avid Civil War buff these were easy questions. But the contestants' scores were pretty pathetic, actually (and Steve Doocy is a KU grad!). One of the questions asked was which of these western figures was a Civil War veteran? The choices were Billy the Kid, Jesse James, The Sundance Kid, and someone else. The answer, of course, was Jesse James.

The problem began when O'Reilly started describing Jesse's exploits with William Clarke Quantrill. Times like that make me wish the TV was two-way.

"No, no, no!" I jumped up and woke my husband. "Jesse rode with Bloody Bill! Not Quantrill!"

I immediately emailed Mr. O'Reilly and am patiently awaiting his reply.

The Day Dixie Died....Now on Kindle!!!

2012-01-08T11:59:00.003-05:00

The Day Dixie Died is now available on Kindle for around $15. It is a depressing book, but it contains compelling true stories of the lives of Southerners after the Civil War was supposed to be over.

This was a collaboration with my former husband. As the word former implies, we did not always see eye-to-eye. I learned a lot from him and I learned a lot in the collaboration, but were I to write this book today I think it would be very different. The months and years of research that went into it revealed a world of incredible people, both historic and contemporary, for whom I am so grateful to know. Their presence in my life has made it much richer. I hope to share their stories compassionately and honestly throughout the months and years to come.

Now, back to the Civil War and Kansas.

Kansas and the Civil War

2012-01-03T19:28:00.004-05:00

Well, the New Year is upon us and it's time for some real elbow grease....or brain grease perhaps. I have so much writing to get done, my fingers are cramping just thinking about it.

Kansas and the Civil War will be released in June by the History Press, provided the MS is finished in a few very short weeks. Images are on their way. You're all invited to the party when it rolls off the press!

Onward, projects await! Godspeed to me and thee in our pursuits throughout 2012!

A Barnes & Noble Day

2011-12-31T16:52:00.010-05:00

Perusing some of my favorite magazines at Barnes & Noble. I have sifted through them, Dear Reader, and have some recommendations for you:

Wild West -- The February issue contains a delightful interview with Buck Taylor by Johnny D. Boogs. Johnny, who can always be counted on to deliver, focuses on Buck's artwork though he touches on Buck's upbringing as the son of the legendary Dub Taylor. Buck's eperiences on Gunsmoke figures in the interview and Buck's art. This article will make you smile. Another great article by Johnny details the history of New Mexico and Arizona.

Civil War Monitor -- Issue 2 of this magazine delivers more quality research and writing. The photo of Bruce Catton with his hometown's GAR marker makes the cover price of six bucks a bargain! The story on old soldiers was compelling. Terry Johnston has really undertaken a labor of love with this publication, and we wish him the very best. His readers are already getting it.

Another great treat was a peak at James Robertson's new work for National Geographic. This is a great gift for the person with an awakening interest in the Civil War, or the perfect gift for the historian who can't get enough. Bud's vast knowledge and very readable style make this accessible and satisfying for anyone at any level of knowledge or interest.

Okay, folks, I am so frustrated with this blogger program and trying to format that I am giving up. So here it is, imperfect but well-intentioned. Enjoy!

War Horse

2011-12-26T19:27:00.002-05:00

This is how you make a movie. This is why you make a movie. You care from the beginning, you're riveted throughout, and you're satisfied at the end.

Gary and I went with his brother and sister-in-law yesterday but it was already sold out. We bought tickets for today's show and the theater was nearly packed once more. I think it is only one of two or three movie I've ever seen that had people applauding at the end.

On our way out, we met Nancy and Randy Durbin on their way inside. I passed off the package of tissues that had been necessary and bade them enjoy the show.

Now, I can't wait to get the lowdown from my WWI buds on what they thought!

Dixie, Mayberry, and Fun Girls!

2011-12-23T10:08:00.006-05:00

We just returned from the hills of Virginia and North Carolina, as well as the streets of Philly and New Jersey.

Dixie Lee went along, of course, as did her sweetheart Woodrow.

As a result, Dixie Lee Jackson's Guide to Cookin' and Kissin' is available at Mayberry on Main, the Andy-Griffith-Show-Gone-Wild-Store on Main Street, Mount Airy, North Carolina. Debbie and Darryl Miles, transplants from Indiana, are as passionate about their adopted hometown as I am about my adopted Kansas.

Visit them online at http://mayberryonmain.com, or if you're fortunate enough to be in the area, just drop in and tell them "Hey!"

If you walk in the door, you will find something to take home -- I promise.

Dixie Lee's Guide to Cookin' and Kissin' is available by using Paypal, as well, just click on Dixie's blogsite http://dixieleejackson.blogspot.com

Beauty of Bones

2011-12-22T08:20:00.011-05:00

I have long loved the inherent beauty of bare tree limbs, of stones, of bones -- those objects that are basic and the base upon which life is built, the framework for life.

Rene Gibson sees that beauty and enhances it so the rest of us can see as well. The process, said Rene, is a path to finding her true, essential self as well. As with many journeys of self discovery, hers began with something ordinary and very understandable -- a woman decorating her house.

I decided I "needed" something to hang above my TV and, to make a long story short, I came up with the idea of trying to make a mosaic cow skull. I'm not really sure why, since I had been a vegetarian a few times in my life and I was never a fan of taxidermy. Yet, two weeks later the skull shown above was hanging right above my television. It was my first attempt and I loved it!

There are people, I am not among them, that think there might be something creepy about taking animal bones and using them as decor. I have always believed that our homes should be filled with beauty and meaning, not just "decorative" items, but art that speaks to us. like what Rene's work says.

Bringing out the inherent beauty of each animal as a way to honor the spirit who has made the greatest sacrifice of all is my daily spiritual practice.What?...you may ask......I often ask myself the same question. How did that happen? More importantly, do I really want people to know this about me? Well, about eight years ago I promised myself I would no longer limit my life because I was afraid. I would no longer pretend to be something that I was not because I was too afraid of revealing my true self. Here's to fearlessness.

I am blessed to know many very talented artists, and through their art, they find truths about themselves, and reveal to us, truths about ourselves. It is an amazing gift and process, and one I admire so much. Rene connected with the spirit of the animals that had once owned these bones -- a sacred trust.

I truly enjoyed working with the skulls, but it was simply another medium at that point. While working on a commission piece, things began to change,said Rene. I call him Big Head (not too creative in the name department; he had a very large head). I feel bad about that now that I know our connection, but the name has stuck. While working on Big Head, I would be overcome with deep feelings of joy and sometimes I would even laugh out loud. Other times, I felt overwhelming love. . . I kept Big Head and I'll keep the rest of that story private for now.From that point on my work became more meaningful. When I work with a skull, I approach each piece with love and attention. Billions of animals are killed each year for consumption alone, not including hunting practices. My work with skulls, while some may think it is morbid, is purposeful in that I honor the sacrifice each animal made and honor the inherent beauty of each animal. I sit with each skull and let it "talk" to me and out of that conversation a design is born. The spirit of the animal works through me as I carefully and lovingly set each bead or tile onto the skull. If one of these skulls "talks" to you, buy it because it is meant to be with you.

Take a look at Rene's work. I'm sure something will speak to you. And in this season of gifting, there is no better gift than art. Click here to view Rene's incredible art:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/ReneGibson

Lois Lane In Person, Kinda

2011-12-11T09:22:00.008-05:00

Metropolis. Home of Superman. Home of Lois Lane. Conveniently located just off I-24 west of Paducah, tucked inside the Illinois state line.

When I was four years old I watched Lois Lane on Superman and determined to be a reporter. In the days of Donna Reed and June Cleaver, there weren't many working women. Not only was Lois working, she was doing a job as well as, and sometimes better than, a man. She was doing important work, exciting work and, she was doing it with a pen. She was petite, pretty, gutsy, and
successful. She was my role model.

It was nearly 11 pm when we rolled into the picturesque town. My husband was asleep in the back seat, his 6-foot-frame curled between comfort and contortion. My daughter glimpsed the sign first, “Giant Statue of Superman. Straight Ahead.”

Cool, I thought. I almost drove straight for it, thinking that would be a pretty interesting site at
night, but my husband roused and I knew he would need to get out and stretch. So I drove to the Baymont Inn. It was smack-dab on the river bank next to the Harrah's Casino, but in our bleary-eyed state, we didn't notice the river until the next day. But even in my exhausted condition I
couldn't help but notice the new construction in the hotel. New stonework, new ceramic tiles the smell of paint, new wallpaper – and everything spotlessly clean.

“Our entire first floor is being renovated because of the flood we had last year,” said the gal at
the front desk. We recalled having seen Paducah in the news, but you forget how long it takes people to clean up and repair.

The mighty Ohio River was the same gray as the overcast sky, and just as close when we went down to breakfast the next morning. Barges with their rough cargoes drifted nearer to
us than the the casino sign. I took in the uniqueness and timelessness of the scene. While glancing through the brochures in the lobby, a familiar name jumped out at me – Noel Neill Statue – just two blocks from Superman.

Get in the car!

We drove a couple of short blocks and there, as promised, was the man of steel (in fiberglass, I think). I was verily impressed to see the words “Truth, Justice and the American Way” engraved on the pedestal. We posed for the obligatory photos there and with the Superman/Superwoman plywood-where-you-insert-your-head. Then we were off to find Lois Lane.

There she was. Even in monumental proportions, she is diminutive. Dressed in a belted suit with pumps, purse, and earrings, she holds a pad and pencil in her hands. Otherthan any statue of Buffalo Bill, I have never been so thrilled to see someone immortalized in bronze.

It was the icing on this cake of a trip.

We stopped at Walgreen's for a couple of necessities before hitting the interstate. The sales clerk was so friendly and helpful, about my age, and we chatted about the town's landmarks.

“You should come back for our Superman Festival,” she said.

I feel some in-depth, investigative reporting in Metropolis!!!

(Top photo: Me, Noel Neill, Noel Coalson. Photo by Gary Bisel)

If we make it through

2011-12-04T20:26:00.001-05:00

. . . December!

So much to do!

We have so much to do because our lives are full. We are blessed.

Do not forget it.

Be grateful.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Custer's Last Fight--For Sale

2011-11-27T16:42:00.004-05:00

. . . .just in time for Christmas. . . .

Yes, friends, nothing says love and "Merry Christmas" like this classic Anheuser-Busch depiction of Custer's Last Fight. Hanging in a saloon for decades only adds to the aura of this piece.

Since combining households, there is simply no room. I really hate to part with it, especially now that my grandson has become so intrigued by it. But part with it I must.

For a mere $1,200, it can be under your tree by December 25th.

The Civil War Through the Camera

2011-10-08T09:36:00.009-04:00

I couldn't sleep last night so at 2 a.m. I made a cup of hot chocolate and snuggled into my reading corner. It's one end of our music room, just a cozy nook with bookshelves, a wing-back chair, an ottoman, and a lamp. (There is also a considerable amount of art on the walls the focal point of which is a signed print of Don Griffiths' They Stood Their Ground.)

After moving the cat from the chair, I randomly picked a book I hadn't looked at in a while: The Civil War Through the Camera: Hundreds of Vivid Photographs Actually Taken in Civil War Times. This book was published in 1912 and contains so many compelling images that is almost sensory overload. From generals to common privates it presents the war in black and white detail.

Each image draws you inside their world. It has been said that the Civil War is so fascinating because it was the first to be photographed. (I'm not sure if that's true or not, but it was certainly widely photographed and images distributed throughout the North and South.)

This is an incredible book, a "black hole" of faces and figures from which you will never emerge. For the student of the Civil War, each page tells a multi-layered story from "Hancock the Superb" to "Confederate Soldiers in Virginia, 1864" the photos in this volume tell a story more eloquent than any historian ever wrote.

This one is a must-have.

From the book, the caption for the photo above:

Every man in this picture was wounded at Gettysburg. Seated, is Winfield Scott Hancock; the boy-general Francis C. Barlow (who was struck almost mortally), leans against the tree. The other two are General John Gibbon and General David B. Birney. About four o'clock on the afternoon of July 1st a foam-flecked charger dashed up Cemetery Hill bearing General Hancock. He had galloped thirteen miles to take command. Apprised of the loss of Reynolds, his main dependence, Meade knew that only a man of vigor and judgment could save the situation. He chose wisely, for Hancock was one of the best all-round soldiers that the Army of the Potomac had developed. It was he who re-formed the shattered corps and chose the position to be held for the decisive struggle.

Now don't you want to see/read more?

2011-09-27T13:36:00.007-04:00

Perfect Storm may not be the appropriate title for Dan Crary and Thunderation's new CD. Perfect, yes. A storm, no.

A storm implies something chaotic, wild, and this CD has none of that. There is not a misplaced note anywhere. Everything is in perfect order, exactly where and when it should be.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Dan at the Walnut Valley Festival, Winfield, KS, a couple of weeks ago. Dan performed with Thunderation which is Steve Spurgin (another legend in his own right and longtime musical partner of Crary's) and Martin Stevens (a new and impressive talent). He also did a guitar workshop with Pat Flynn and Kenny Smith. The audiences' response bears out the fact that quite simply, Dan Crary is a guitar hero. A legend.

He wears it well. In fact, he is like a well -- deep, resonating, full, crystal clear. This CD is like that. It quenches the thirst like a dipper of water from a deep, deep well.

Sail Away Ladies, the first cut on the CD, has a special place in my heart. In a Mayberry far, far away, Uncle Tommy Jarrell and I sat in his living room and he took out his fiddle and played this tune for me--just for me. There was no one else in the room. It still brings tears to my eyes to think of his long arms holding the fiddle and bow and his crackly voice singing those simple verses. When Gary and I were married a couple of years ago, we chose Sail Away Ladies as our exit song because it is a happy, hope-filled song. Dan Crary's interpretation of this standard has given it a new life.

Dan said that he and Steve came to making this CD with songs they had each wanted to do for years, in the case of Deep River Blues, nearly 50 years. Dan and Steve began as folk singers and when he heard Odetta's version of this traditional tune, he knew he wanted to do it. It just took a while.

Steve Spurgin, an acclaimed songwriter in addition to being a fine musician, has a couple of originals -- Muley Was A Railroad Man and Tumbleweed Town. As Dan commented, Steve has a feel for Americana and these songs are strong examples. They have the feel of timeless tunes; if you didn't know better, you'd think you heard them as a child or saw them included in your reading book along with the Erie Canal and Ole Susannah. Listen closely to the words of Tumbleweed Town. The almost haunting lyrics are nearly disguised by the upbeat tune.

Covers of Gordon Lightfoot's I'd Do It Again and Bob Dylan's Girl From the North Country are really well done, with Dan and Steve trading lead vocals on these two.

The instrumentals, of course, are what you would expect from these guys -- perfect. Dan's Thunderation is sure to be a standard for generations to come and the interpretations of Shenandoah, Gold Rush, and Soldier's Joy will satisfy the most critical of listeners.

Dan commented that this group of musicians was perhaps the most satisfying of his career. In additon to Thunderation, performers are: Luke Dewhirst, Don Sternberg, John Reischman, and Keith Little.

This CD is going to be one that doesn't get put away. It's an added bonus that the CD cover features a stunning image of a prairie storm because it will be laying beside your CD player from now on. It's perfect, but it ain't no storm.

Check out localgrass.com, hosted by Kenneth Berrier and Linda Wright to listen to my full interview with Dan Crary, and watch for an interview with the grammy-nominated Steve Spurgin as well.

Dan Crary and Thunderation, Perfect Storm, Blue Night Records; www.dancrary.com

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Civil War Quote of the Day

posted by Tim Kent on Facebook:

"Fill your canteens, boys! Some of you will be in Hell before night and you'll need the water!"

Col. Isaac Pugh, 41st Ill. Inf. at Shiloh

Moonshine and Fiddles

2011-09-22T21:31:00.000-04:00

Once again, the making of moonshine in the mountains has alerted the attention of the authorities.

When I get the chance, I peruse the papers back home -- The Mount Airy News, The Enterprise, The Galax Gazette, the Carroll News, the Roanoke Times, the Winston-Salem Journal & Sentinel. As dependable as my relatives are, they are not always diligent in keeping me up-to-date. So this is what I learned tonight:

One Larry Shaw of Baywood (near Galax) was arrested, liquid was confiscated and sent to state labs for testing, and a still was rendered dysfunctional. Pretty much breaks my heart. Hmmm. . . . looks like there might be some brandy there.

Also saw that Spencer Strickland placed in the bluegrass fiddle competition at the Fries (pronounced freeze) Fiddlers' Convention. My Grandma Coalson grew up in Fries (Irontown, really), so I have a real affection for that place. I had the opportunity to listen to Spencer on mandolin with Kenny and Amanda Smith just last week at Winfield. What an amazing musician that boy from Lambsburg is!

Cowboys and Such

2011-09-21T11:49:00.008-04:00

Listening to Michael Martin Murphy's new CD, Tall Grass and Cool Water puts me in mind of the lives of a couple of my friends.

Jim Gray lives the cowboy life in addition to being a writer and historian. I'm sharing some of his photos from his recent cattle drive to Ellsworth. A fourth-generation rancher and inductee into the Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame, Jim is one of those rare people you meet not so rarely in Kansas. He is the real deal, probably born in the wrong century but I'm glad to share in his time on earth. His gracious wife is the iconic pioneer woman. Just quietly doing whatever needs to be done. I admire her very much.

To help raise awareness of the Cowboy legacy and to keep folks informed of events, Jim founded the Kansas Cowboy, official publication of the Cockeyed Old West Band of Yahoos Society. It's one of those have-to subscriptions. Get that and a copy of Jim's book, Bad Seed, then rare back in your leather chair and listen to Murhpy and the boys singing and playing Blue Prairie. You're liable to be transported to a better, simpler time.

Generosity--Tastes Good, Sounds Good

2011-09-19T10:48:00.019-04:00

Basking in the morning sunshine and a week filled with great music and exceptional people. The 40th annual Walnut Valley Festival was a memorable reunion for musicians and fans.

Since my husband has spent decades at this Winfield event he and his mates have entrenched traditions and established camp spots. The Fugarwes and the Bucket Camp set up side-by-side each year with folks from different parts of Kansas and Nebraska. Since we were only there for three nights and Gary is just not able to set up that elaborate tent complex he used to do, we were guests of Jim Musick and Preston and Brenda Miller. I can't tell you how grateful I was to wake up to the sounds of driving rain and thunder Saturday morning and revel in the comfort of a dry, warm bed.

The Walnut Valley Festival, like all successful events, occurs in many places, on many levels, in many ways. The good folks from Nebraska treat the Bucket Camp to Cafe Luigi (right) each year and prepares a meal of spaghetti and wine, serving fellow campers and treating them like honored guests. The tables and campsite are decorated like a quaint bistro, the food is wonderful, and, of course, music. In this case, the High Falutin' String Band. Afterward, all gathered round the fire (above) and joined together in singing, "Will the Circle Be Unbroken." Those friends since gone were remembered; those friends still here were cherished. There was much laughter and a few tears.

Behind Stage

Stepping backstage at Winfield reminded me of why I wanted to be a reporter. You just get to meet the most interesting and incredible people. Because of my buds Kenneth Berrier and Linda Wright and their Local Grass Radio Show, I visited with some bluegrass superstars and did some great interviews. You'll hear more of them later. Here's a preview.

Pat Flynn (left, sharing his oatmeal cookies), bluegrass rock star, was such a gentleman and so generous with his insights. I think his picking is better than ever, and along with Kenny Smith and the legendary Dan Crary (above), Pat was outstanding during the guitar workshop as well as his appearances with Michael Martin Murphy.

Okay, I have to admit that Bryan Bowers (below) is someone I had always taken for granted. He was there, an ordinary, wonderful fixture in your life. To have the chance to sit with him and understand the man, and to listen to his music anew, was a very special gift. When I got home, I soaked in the tub and played Bryan's new CD, Crabby Old Man. As Gary said, the autoharp is a soothing instrument. It's good for the weary soul.

Like countless thousands, I've been a fan of Dan Crary's for years. This was the first chance I had had to visit with him. He's not only an impressive musician; he's an impressive man. You are going to LOVE listening to this interview!

When I was a young dj at WSYD Radio, I kept "The Bountyhunter" near the top of the record stack. (Remember records?) I played that song nearly every day and the listeners loved it! Mike Cross has been a hero of mine for a long time, and I have met him before, but the sit-down visit we had was a real treat. It's going to be a treat for you, too, when I get the chance to share the interview on LGR.

On the way to Winfield, my ailing husband napped and I played Michael Martin Murphy (below) on the MP3. I kept waking Gary with shouts and he had to tell me to stop keeping time on the gas pedal. This new CD, Tallgrass and Cool Water, is going to be your favorite. The outlaw trilogy -- songs about the James Boys and Cole Younger -- will be new standards among my many buds! The best pickers in the business perform here (including Pat Flynn) and the results are just incredible. Michael's son, Ryan, plays a mean mandolin and the Winfield audience response demonstrates how beloved Murhpy is!

Stay tuned to this blog and to Localgrass.com for more on these very talented and generous performers. (All photos by Gary Bisel)

Philadelphia and the Civil War--Get it!

2011-09-12T12:05:00.004-04:00

I can't think of anyone more qualified to write the history of Philadelphia in the Civil War than my dear friend, Andy Waskie. In fact, I am fairly certain that no one who lived through those tumultuous times could have covered it more thoroughly or with greater enthusiasm.

A passion for history brought Andy and his wife Carol together years ago, and it brought all of us together in a lasting friendship. I've had the opportunity to visit Philadelphia many times and to host Andy and Carol in Topeka as well. This past spring, Andy spoke on Gen. Edwin Sumner to an exuberant Topeka crowd, then Carol gave a riveting presentation on the paranormal side of Philadelphia history at a conference in Missouri. Gary and I enjoyed showing them the sites, including Harry Truman's home and library in Independence.

So, knowing Andy as I do, I would honestly endorse this book even if I had not read a word of it. I am that confident in his ability as a researcher and his passion for the subject, and that doesn't happen very often. Having read the book, however, I can say that I would highly recommend it even if I did not know the author.

We Southerners often think of the North, of northern cities, as untouched by the war. Richmonder Constance Cary visited Philadelphia not long after the surrender and was shocked by the normalcy and abundance, most of all, by how unmarked it was by the war. Only later did she realize that Philadelphians had their own scars, their own empty chairs, their own losses. (She would eventually become the wife of Burton Harrison, personal secretary to Confederate President Jefferson Davis.) As a Southerner with ties to the City of Brotherly Love, Constance Cary was not alone.

Andy refers to it as a "border city," lying almost on the Mason-Dixon Line. "The city lay closest to Southern cities such as Baltimore, Washington and Richmond, which would ensure a pivotal yet grim importance as a center of any Northern war effort and destination for troop transportation," Andy wrote.

One of its sons, John Pemberton, became a general in the Confederate army and returned to Philadelphia after the war. There were many divided loyalties, but the majority supported the Union. In fact, Philadelphia contributed 100,000 soldiers including Generals George Meade and George McClellan to the Union Army. (Though Southerners may be more apt to appreciate McClellan's contributions than Yankess.)

As the second-most populous city in the North, Philadelphia bore a great financial burden in the war effort. It rose to the occasion and manufacturing reached new levels of productivity in the cause. Despite Constance Cary's observations, every corner of Philadelphia was involved in and touched by the war -- from the railroad and navy yards, to the arsenals, to the forts, prisons and training yards, and sadly, to the cemeteries.

For avid Civil War readers, Philadelphia and the Civil War is yet another vital piece of the puzzle, well-researched and well-told. Buy it. Then read it. After that, let Andy know how much you learned and how much you enjoyed learning it.

My indulgent husband Gary took this photo of Andy and me in Oak Hill Cemetery, Lawrence, Kansas, nearly two years ago. It was 0 and there was 18 inches of snow on the ground. It did not deter us from reveling in one of our greatest common passions -- dead people. My husband married me anyway.

* * * * * * * *
Philadelphia and the Civil War: Arsenal of the Union
Anthony Waskie, PhD
Foreword by Edwin C. Bearrs
The History Press, softcover, $24.99
www.historypress.net

Sammy Shelor for President

2011-09-07T09:41:00.007-04:00

"God is great and so is Steve Martin!"

Amen to that one, Sammy!

Thanks to social media, word spread like a Texas wildfire that Patrick County's (Virginia) own Sammy Shelor is the second winner of the Steve Martin Prize for Excellence in Banjo and Bluegrass. The honor carries a cash award of $50,000, a bronze sculpture, and a guest appearance with Martin on the David Letterman Show November 3.

Martin told the New York Times that five or six "worthy names" were narrowed to a final two or three who were scrutinized on "anecdotal factors, and emotional factors, that are very hard to define and probably wouldn't bear up in a trial." Sammy won by unanimous vote.

The first time I recall hearing Sammy play we were in high school. I was a couple of years, or three or four, ahead of Sammy. I wrote and directed a play called "Our Heritage, Our Hero." It was to be performed in April or May of 1976, my senior year and the nation's bicentennial. Produced by my friend Karen Duncan Erickson, there was a cast of thousands, or dozens. Claudette Thompson Franklin said, "I know this banjo player from Meadows of Dan. . . . "

Leslie Shelor, Sammy's equally-talented-in-different-areas sister was already in the play and heavily involved with its production. So Sammy and his Grandpa came down off the mountain and provided the musical interludes between acts. It was perfect. I recall thinking, "this kid is really good!"

What an understatement.

Through the years, Sammy has racked up awards including Banjo Player of the Year from the IBMA more times than I can count. His Lonesome River Band is nominated for five awards later this month. Bandmates -- Brandon Rickman, guitar; Mike Hartgrove, fiddle; Barry Reed, upright bass; and Randy Jones, mandolin -- are equally talented and if you have never heard them, visit the website and order a CD.

I wasn't blowing smoke and neither was Sammy in saying that Steve Martin is great. He has used his celebrity and resources to bring the banjo and bluegrass to a larger audience. His passion has connected him to the best and he called upon the best in choosing the recipient for this award. The board members include Earl Scruggs, Bela Fleck, Neil Rosenberg, Pete Wernick, Anne Stringfield, and Tony Trischka, in addition to Martin.

Martin, along with his band the Steep Canyon Rangers, are also nominated for several awards this year including entertainer of the year. ALSO nominated for that prestigious award is the incredibly talented group, The Boxcars -featuring another Patrick Countian -- John Bowman. (John, I bet your Mama is just beside herself! And your Granny, too!)

Yep, it's a proud day for Patrick Countians everywhere. Our own Leon Pollard, retired teacher and musician extraordinaire, said about Sammy:

"Sammy is not only a great banjo picker, he is a great guy, both on and off stage, and he has never forgotten his roots here in the county. I was proud to pick with him when he was 10 years old and I am still proud to call him friend and pick with him whenever I get the chance. Congratulations to Sammy!"

This is such a great day I think everybody in Patrick County should get a free punkin. Can you hook us up, Sammy? This could be a great way to launch a campaign, Instead of the electoral college, how about a fiddling contest? Best banjo player is president, best fiddler is secretary of state, and so on. But that's a column for another day.

Sunday Readings

2011-09-05T11:04:00.015-04:00

The neighbors weren't home so it was the perfect time to go over and pry their small, screened outbuilding off its foundation.

Gary had these five-foot-long, 2,000 pound pry bars (maybe they weighed a little less) and while he lifted the building I quickly stuffed a brick under the bottom. What had been an aviary for the neighbor (until the raccoons got his birds) will be a garden shed for the Bisels.

We had permission to lift the building, but would anyone have asked? Years ago, in a Mayberry far, far, away, Dewey and Verlie Hill were sitting on their front porch enjoying the summer breeze when a crew showed up at the log tobacco barn across the road and began to dismantle it. This is Mayberry, so everyone waved and the Hills watched as these hardworking boys loaded century-old logs onto their flatbed truck and drive away.

A couple of days later, the neighbors came knocking.
"Our barn is gone! Did you see where it went?"

"It went thataway," said Dewey, pointing away from town.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

One of my favorite ways to spend Sunday is in the cafe at Barnes and Noble with a cappuccino and a stack of magazines. Occasionally, I buy one.

Noel and I filled a basket with reading material and settled in by the window to watch the world go by and read particularly interesting excerpts to each other.

If a psychologist were examining my selections, I'm sure I'd be in a treatment program somewhere because they are always eclectic. I don't subscribe so much any more, because I can't afford to subscribe to all the magazines I love, but I also love going in and being surprised by the new issues and choosing which one deserves to come home with me. So between Veranda, Country Living, Military History Quarterly, Wild West, True West, Better Homes and Gardens, Mother Earth News, Grit, Country French, Armchair General, The Cowboy Way, American Cowboy, Cowboys and Indians, Cottage Living, Midwest Living, Southern Living, Country French, Southwest Art, a couple of books and poetry reviews--it sometimes takes two or three coffee refills.

To help narrow your own choices, here are a couple of gems I found yesterday:

The Cowboy Way--great article by Guy De Galard on the Artist Ride in which my friend Robert "Cowboy" Culbertson participated. Cowboy (above) posted on Facebook that it was good to do some hard riding, but he did some hard posing along the way. The photograph and subsequent painting of his iconic self are worth at least a thousand words. Maybe a thousand and one.

Also in The Cowboy Way, friend Dan Gagliasso (left) has a tremendous article, "Cowboy Cavalry Under Fire: Roosevelt's Rough Riders." Dan always delivers on solid writing with a compelling subject. My history buds are going to love this one.

Military History Quarterly--an exceptional issue. The United States has deployed the whole of its military might on eleven occasions, according to this article, to capture or kill ONE man. Among that elite and notorious group: Geronimo, Pancho Villa, Manuel Noriega, Saddam Hussein. This is a fascinating article with some compelling images.

Cowboys and Indians -- Mark Harmon on the cover. Enough said.

Flea Market Style -- One of the most fun and imaginative issues ever. The cover image says it all with a theme combining things I love -- old stuff and travel.

Now that I am sufficiently inspired, down to creating something -- though I can't decide whether to rearrange the guest room or take over a third world country. . . .

Festivities at Lone Jack

2011-09-02T07:02:00.005-04:00

The battle of Lone Jack, Missouri, was immortalized by Rooster Cogburn in the
movie True Grit. It's where he lost his eye. This little detail, legend has it, was added by John Wayne, not the author, Charles Portis. The Duke apparently visited this quaint battle site and changed the location of the marshal's wound from Gettysburg to Lone Jack and then dubbed his cat "Sterling Price" after the Confederate general.

When the Lone Jack Historical Society marked the 149th anniversary of the battle, they unveiled a wall of honor for all veterans from the area. It was a day of ceremony and celebration, and Gary and I, along with fellow Topekan Beth Meyer, had a great time visiting with Jim Beckner, Greg Higginbotham, John Mackie, Jay & Barbara Jackson, Dave Bears, Kathleen Quigley, Dave Bears, and of course, Dan Hadley. Dan (above, far left) is one of the most talented and gracious people I know and I was tickled to be a part of the event he had worked so hard on!

PS--The soldier below (Greg Higginbotham) "volunteered" to help Dixie Lee Jackson whip up breakfast for the crowd. See her blog for more images from Lone Jack. dixieleejackson.blogspot.com

More Old Friends and Good Times!

2011-08-14T20:57:00.003-04:00

Recorded an interview with Linda Wright and Kenneth Berrier this afternoon for their Local Grass Radio (localgrass.com). Broadcast on WEHC Radio with podcasts on their website, this show is a great idea well executed. Thanks to the internet, local is not defined geographically now and like-minded fans can enjoy fine bluegrass from around the world. We chatted about the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival coming up in Winfield, KS, from September 14 through the 18th. My handsome husband has been for 28 years. I'm looking forward to being Kenneth and Linda's roving reporter at this great festival so keep listening to Local Grass!

Old Friends, New Times!

2011-08-02T14:50:00.002-04:00

Great visiting with my dear friend, Sherry Boyd (above), today. Sherry recorded an interview for broadcast later tonight. Listen between 8 and 9, EDT, to WBRF Radio, in Galax, Virginia: http://www.blueridgecountryradio98.com/ The Galax Fiddlers Convention marks its 76 year next week and nothing makes me more homesick, so I took it upon myself to invite friends and relatives back home to the Walnut Valley Festival in Winfield, KS, in September. (www.wvfest.com) The next best thing to going home would be having all the homefolks here! I wish we had room for everyone to stay with us!

Sherry and I have been co-workers and roommates and she wrote the foreword for Dixie Lee Jackson's Guide to Cookin' and Kissin'. Folks around the globe are sure glad she's back on the air. Sherry was honored at the Society for the Preservation of Blue Grass Music in America awards this past year with a lifetime achievement award. She emcees bluegrass music festivals around the nation and is beloved wherever she goes!

I'm so proud to include her among my talented and beautiful friends!

Updates

2011-07-25T16:40:00.005-04:00

The inaugural Kansas Hall of Fame event was "superior" in the words of one attendee. I'll second that.

A highlight for Gary and me, of course, was hosting General Richard Myers, former chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. As one of my friends commented afterward, "Your friend the general is the real deal!"

I'll second that one, too.

I'd met the general on a couple of occasions previous to this one; in fact, I think I attended the first talk he gave as a civilian at a Conference of Military Historians in Manhattan. He joked that it was the first time in a long time he had not had staff to prepare his notes and it was a little unsettling. He was wonderful, of course, candid and compelling in describing his view of world affairs.

There was little doubt at the Hall of Fame event at the Great Overland Station that everyone wanted to meet the man the world had looked to on 9-11 when he was acting chair of the Joint Chiefs. He took the top post a month later and was front and center while history was being made. It was a privilege to host him and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law for the evening and we look forward to seeing them again.

My handsome and talented husband (below), along with friends John Neal and Jimmy Wilson, provided the pre-dinner entertainment. I'll post more pictures and keep you posted on next year's nominees.

Photos by Doug Ruth, topekatonight.com

Kansas Hall of Fame

2011-06-02T22:57:00.003-04:00

We had a committee meeting of the Kansas Hall of Fame at the Great Overland Station today. I am so proud to be part of this group. Such creative, caring people and we're inducting some wonderfully deserving folks into the Hall of Fame. Visit the website, greatoverlandstation.com for more information. The gala and induction is June 17. The honorees are: President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Vice President Charles Curtis, Sen. Bob Dole, Gen. Richard Myers, The Carney Brothers (founders of Pizza Hut), Amelia Earhart, Marshal Matt Dillon as portrayed by James Arness. We are so looking forward to this event and invite you to join us.

On June 18, Dixie Lee Jackson is emceeing Wheatstock, the 7th annual, at Old Prairie Town at Ward Meade. Borderline is playing ( so look for Gary/Woodrow). Visit topekatonight.com for more details.

On June 15, Dixie Lee Jackson will be on the WIBW morning news with Dave and Amanda, and her granddaughter, Lulu, will be joining her. Tune in!

Happy start to summer!

Lazy Bones

2011-03-22T08:11:00.016-04:00

More like tired bones. Gary & I have been so busy lately, there has simply been no time to catch up on photos and share the great events that have filled our lives. We'll take care of some of that this morning.

Carol Visits the Winery

The biggest event was the arrival of our dear friends, Andy & Carol Waskie from Philadelphia. Carol was among the featured speakers at Paracon 2011, held at the Belvoir Winery in Liberty, Missouri. Andy, left, handled the powerpoint, while Carol, below, discussed haunts and history in Philly. Even though her profession is nursing, her avocation is history and she has been instrumental in Civil War Roundtables in Pennsylvania, organizing events and establishing businesses with history at the core.

Paracon 2011 was a very successful event held at one of the most haunted, and picturesque, sites in Missouri. Paranormal investigations and other events are a common occurence at the winery so look up paranormaladventuresusa.com for more information. Thanks to Beth Cooper Meyer and Nick Spantgos and their crews for working so hard to bring folks to our area and provide quality information and an interesting time.

General Meade Visits Topeka

Andy was here to portray Gen. George Meade, victor at Gettysburg, for an evening of tribute to Gen. E. V. Sumner. The event was held at the Celtic Fox in downtown Topeka. Watch this blog for more on Gen. Sumner, who was a colonel when he commanded Fort Leavenworth during Bleeding Kansas.
One of the evening's sponsors, Clay Mead (no e), and Carol Waskie. At left, General Meade (with an e), addressing the crowd.

Andy's book, Philadelphia in the Civil War is about to be released and we can hardly wait to read it. We'll have him back out for a booksigning.

Beth Cooper Meyer, tour guide, hostess, author and all around fun gal who made the ParaCon 2011 happen. She makes things happen all the time and we're so glad she's here in Topeka!

It's great when you can "volunteer" to get your friends involved -- me with Betty Lou Pardue, our celebrity auctioneer for the evening, and Janet Sage Bruce.

Event sponsors Duane and Beth Fager who do so much to support our community along with our special guests Andy and Carol Waskie. Below, Barney Heeney, me, Marge Heeney and Doug Wallace.Our dear, dear friend Lt. Col. (ret) Ed Kennedy spoke about the Command and General Staff College Hall of Fame at Fort Leavenworth. Ed was preparing for special events at the Liberty Memorial in honor of Mr. Buckles, the last remaining WWI soldier, and we're so grateful he took the time to visit us.

We were also thrilled that Michelle Martin was able to join us. Now that Michelle is a resident of Oklahoma, we don't get to see her as often as we'd like. She is a part of our Gen. E. V. Sumner National Monument Project and an advocate for history wherever she goes. Her guest for the evening was Mary Kristen Kurtis. Mary is the daughter of Bill Kurtis and is involved in much of her dad's business and an advocate for history herself.

So many more things happening. Let me hear from you and we'll all try to keep up with one another online and visit in person when possible.

All photos taken by my handsome husband, Gary Bisel. He also did the sound for our event at the Celtic Fox.

Chiaventone Wins Wrangler Award

2011-02-13T19:25:00.007-05:00

Fred Chiaventone has won another Wrangler Award.

Well, we are NOT surprised!!

Fred (pictured above with long-time friend, Gen. David Petraeus) is among my top 5 favorite writers of all time. Two of his books, Moon Of Bitter Cold and A Road We Do Not Know are two of my top five favorite books. I've turned so many people on to Fred's work, I should get commissions. I'll settle for the satisfaction of knowing that other people have been touched by Fred's work. He's a fine historian and a fine writer.

This latest Wrangler, bestowed by the Western Heritage Museum and Cowboy Hall of Fame, is given to Fred for an April 2010 article in Wild West Magazine on the Pony Express. Fred's first Wrangler award in 2003 recognized Moon Of Bitter Cold and was presented to him by actor, Ernest Borgnine.

Wrangler award winners are a prestigious lot: Robert Duvall, Clint Eastwood, and Robert Utley among them. I'm thrilled to see Fred recognized yet again as he continues to make valuable contributions to literature and history. During his Army career, Fred specialized in counter-terrorism and national security issues. Since retiring, he has written and lectured widely and appeared in numerous documentaries and consulted on feature films, including Ang Lee's "Ride With The Devil". His articles have appeared in American Heritage, The New York Post, Armed Forces Journal, and Cowboys & Indians. He was a contributing editor to the Historical Dictionary of the U. S. Army and to the Oxford Companion to American Military History.

Yaay, Fred!

More News From Talented Friends

Louis Kraft is doing the final edits on his Ned Wynkoop manuscript and I can hardly wait to see it. Just picked up the April issue of Wild West Magazine and Louis has a really excellent article on Wynkoop, who was serving as sheriff of Arapahoe County, Kansas Territory. What a life! Louis may be the best biographer going and he brings Wynkoop back from the past with color and clarity and compassion, just as he did with Geronimo and Charles Gatewood.

Be sure to grab this issue of Wild West and watch for the upcoming biography from the University of Oklahoma, Ned Wynkoop: Walking Between the Races.

We hope to get up to Hardin this summer to hear Louis (above with me at the Kansas City Civil War Roundtable) and good friend, D. K. Clark, on the 135th anniversary of Custer's Last Fight.

The History World spins on.

Cowboy Adventures

2011-02-08T20:33:00.008-05:00

"Never approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear, or a fool from any direction."

I wish I had heard that advice before my first two marriages.

Kansan Robert "Cowboy" Culbertson (above, and below right) is a purveyor of cowboy wisdom. He is a wrangler/actor who has appeared in more than 20 documentary and feature films. Titles include Ride With the Devil, The Only Good Indian, Rough Riders, Bloody Dawn, and American Experience "Jesse James."

Of all the adventures Cowboy has been on, however, the one coming up may the best. Cowboy and his bud, filmmaker/screenwriter D. R. Pedraza, are going to ride from the Canadian/North Dakota border to San Antonio in order to raise money and awareness for drug abuse. Visit http://dbmediaent.com/MASDA/Index.html for details. The is an incredible event for a unusual cause --helping the kids of parents with substance abuse issues. So often, these children are uprepared for college and get overlooked by society. This ride is designed to change that.

Check out the site, and if you feel it in your heart, support what these guys and this organization are doing. There's real wisdom in that.

Oh yeah, and "when in doubt let your horse do the thinkin.'"

Farewell to Texas

2011-02-01T09:29:00.006-05:00

A hundred and fifty years ago today, Texas left the Union.

It had barely joined the Union.

There is not enough room here to tell the story of Texas. Heck, there's not even enough room in Texas to tell the story of Texas. Texas is big, Texans are big, and the story of Texas is bigger than them all. In all that bigness, we sometimes lose sight of the sadness.

It was a sad day when Texas voted to secede, just as it was a sad day when her sister states cast those votes. Even though some celebrated, others mourned the dissolution of the hard-won United States. The American Revolution was not that distant; the sons and daughters of patriots held the fate of the young nation in their hands. They did not not always decide wisely.

Fired up by . . . who knows? Who knows what fuels the thirst for war? Power, glory, conquest. . . whatever. It is rarely worth the cost. Sam Houston (right) warned his colleagues there would be "rivers of blood." They did not listen. They did not listen all over our nation and rivers of blood did, in fact, flow.

When Mississippi seceded in January, 1861, U. S. Senator Jefferson Davis concluded that his services were terminated. When he bade farewell to Washington, there was great excitement in the capitol. Crowds arrived by 7 a.m. and by 9, even the hallways and meeting rooms were standing room only.

According to his Jefferson's wife, Varina:

I . . . looked on this festive crowd and wondered if they saw beyond the cold exterior of the orator -- his deep depression, his desire for reconciliation, and his overwhelming love for the Union in whose cause he had bled, and to maintain which he was ready to sacrifice all but liberty and equality. We felt blood in the air, and mourned in secret over the severance of tender ties both of relationship and friendship. . . our hearts were "exceeding sorrowful even unto death."

That night, Varina heard her husband pray:

May God have us in His holy keeping, and grant that before it is too late peaceful councils may prevail.

Of course, peace did not prevail Jefferson Davis was soon elected the head of a rebel nation. Probably not until death did Davis or Houston know true peace after that war had taken place.

Wise men still pray that "peaceful councils may prevail."

Email correspondence with T. J. Stiles:

The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt by T. J. Stiles won the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award. I came to know T. J. through his work on Jesse James. The result, Jesse James: Last Rebel of the Civil War, is well-researched and well-written -- both of which are woefully lacking in scholarship it seems. I have to admit I was tickled to read T. J.'s note. We were discussing the ridiculousness of some Jesse James lore:

By contrast with Jesse James, no one claims to have a family story about Cornelius Vanderbilt , or a picture of him that they want me to authenticate, even though Vanderbilt lived far longer, interacted with far more people, and was photographed many more times. If all the purported photos of Jesse James really were him, he would have spent every hour of his short life in front of a camera.

T. J., I've been meaning to ask you about this photo I found in an estate sale. I think it's Jesse James and Billy the Kid robbing a train with Cornelius Vanderbilt on board and John Wilkes Booth is a passenger . . . . Maybe I'll just take it to Rick at the Pawn Shop in Vegas. . . .

Check out http://www.thefirsttycoon.com/ and follow T. J.'s appearances and blog.

Happy 150th

2011-01-30T10:23:00.006-05:00

The state of Kansas is officially 150 years old as of Saturday. It was a grand day with unseasonably nice weather, and events across the state marked the anniversary.

What now?

I say the celebration should last four more years. When Bryce Benedict and I appeared on WIBW news with Ralph Hipp the other day, I referred to January 29, 1861, as a line of demarcation in that "second birth of freedom" that was our Civil War. Bryce disagreed, pointing out that freedom was still a ways off for a lot of people when Kansas became a state and that many of our founding fathers were not gung-ho for equality of the races or anyone else.

He's right, but so am I.

Just as the Declaration of Indpendence was a step, the Constitution was a step, the Emancipation Proclamation was a step, Kansas statehood was a step. The United States is not a done deal. It is a process. We are still making it happen. Our founding fathers gave us ideals and a process by which to bring them to realization.

It is up to us--each of us, all of us, every generation -- to carry the work forward. That is exactly what was happening 150 years ago in Kansas. There was a celebration and then Kansans set about securing the freedom and Union they had just proclaimed.

January 29 was just the beginning.

(Photo courtesy of Kendall Gott who is pictured in civilian clothing at the celebration at Fort Scott, KS. In his arms, his loyal hound, Stevie.)

WIBW Today at 4

2011-01-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Bryce Benedict and I will join Ralph Hipp on WIBW TV at 4 p.m. today to talk about the 150th of Kansas. Bryce is the author of Jayhawkers: The Civil War Brigrade of James H. Lane. We'll be visiting about events marking the sesquicentennial of the Civil War and encouraging folks to check out the Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Kansas. The CWRT meets this evening at the Koch Education Center at the Kansas State Historical Society, 6:30 p.m., and is open to the public. Our speaker tonight is the eminent Dr. Herschel Stroud, nationally recognized as an expert on Civil War medicine. He will be discussing Abraham Lincoln. The membership of our CWRT is so diverse, so committed to understanding and learning. It is a great way to introduce students to the study of the Civil War so we invite you to bring your class or your kids and join us!

150 Years

2011-01-20T09:46:00.002-05:00

The 150th anniversary of Kansas Statehood is nearly upon us, as is the anniversary of the American Civil War.

Kansas entered the Union as a free state on January 29, 1861, and then half the nation seceded. Anyone who thinks this period of our nation's history was romantic is an idiot. It was unimaginably stressful, filled with hardships and uncertainty. Over the next four years, my goal is to publicize as much as possible in as many ways as possible, the connection between Kansas and the war. It is a rich, powerful history and I look forward to sharing it and to hearing from you.

Quiet Christmas

2010-12-24T04:22:00.002-05:00

Another year. Christmas Day tomorrow. Snow was predicted but I think it is only rain. Our lights flicker brightly nonetheless. The house is quiet. God bless us-- every one.

Keeping up with life. . . .and death!

2010-10-14T10:20:00.003-04:00

Ever since I wrote Stories in Stone, it has been my dream to have a champagne party in Topeka Cemetery. Last week, Beth Cooper Meyer made that happen.

It was a lovely, barely fall evening as a curious and enthusiastic crowd gathered by the Hurley monument--a granite obelisk weighing over 20 tons. It towers above the mausoleums built into the hillside behind and the entire scene looks over the skyline of downtown Topeka. It is one of the prettiest views in our fair city. We drank a toast to the dearly departed who created that skyline, and Beth told some of the ghost stories from this historic site.

As the sun sank down, we had a small tour of some of the closest graves. It was, altogether, a wonderful evening!

UGR Conference in Topeka

2010-07-15T12:28:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Chris Meinhardt treated me to lunch (a sure way to get me involved in any project!) We discussed the National Underground Railroad Conference to be held in Topeka at the end of the month. Chris was interested in obtaining my superior skills as a hostess ala tour guide.

Combining history with travel with cool people: My favorite combination!!!

You, too, can be a part of this historic event. Go to ugrconference.com to register and for details of the fantastic speakers and events scheduled.

2010-06-21T05:57:00.005-04:00

Such a busy time of year for everyone. . . Still getting settled into the new house, unpacking notes and sorting research and books. . . . Dixie Lee had a great time with the Kansas Division Sons of Confederate Veterans on Saturday evening. Great buds!

In checking the calendar, I notice that yesterday was the birthday of Errol Flynn, born June 20, 1909. Where would Jeb Stuart and George Custer be without him? My friend, Louis Kraft, is working on a biography of Flynn and his frequent costar, Olivia de Havilland, and I can't wait to read it!

"Purtiest man I ever saw!"

*************************************

June 20 is a red-letter day in my life, too, because it is the anniversary of the day Gary & I met. It didn't take long for us to realize God had sent us to one another. There have been so many experiences packed into this year, it's more like twenty, but it has all been good or worked for good. I am grateful. It's never too late for love.

Events Gone Wild

2010-06-08T08:42:00.013-04:00

Remember the greeting card a few years ago that featured CSI Topeka? The cop looks at the body and declares, "Bored to death!"

NOT!

We can't begin to squeeze in all the events--art, music, festivals, fairs--going on in and around Topeka. Two I'd like to highlight today: Wheatstock VI, June 12, and the Great Overland Station Gala, June 18.

Good friend, Doug Ruth, is the instigator behind Wheatstock. Doug is a treasure. He works long and hard to document and promote local music. His website, topekatonight.com, is topnotch and is full of photos, bios, schedules and comments. This year, Wheatstock moves to Old Prairie Town at Ward Meade Park, thanks to another good friend, John Bell. John is the program director at this Topeka landmark and does such a great job keeping Old Prairie Town alive with quality events. For the details and lineup of Wheatstock, visit Wheatstock VI moves outdoors | CJOnline.com

Among the entertainers is the High Falutin' String Band, pictured above, featuring Chris Frost, Tom O'Brien and Stuart Yoho. If you haven't heard them, you are in for a real good time! (Note the emcee for this auspicious occasion!)

The Great Overland Station is another jewel in Topeka's crown. Across the Kansas River from Old Prairie Town (no accident, these locations; that's a story for another day). I am so thankful that the stars aligned and that Beth Fager had a passion for restoring the Union Pacific depot before it was lost to time and the elements. Beth emailed yesterday to say that tickets will be available until Friday (June 12) for the June 18 event.

Honorary Chair, Governor Mark Parkinson, Commander of the Kansas National Guard, invites everyone who supports America's military to attend the "Red, White and Blue Gala: Celebrating Our Heroes." Beginning at 5:30, all proceeds will benefit the operations of the All Veterans Memorial and Great Overland Station.

Medal of Honor recipient Col. (ret.) Donald Ballard is the guest of honor and speaker. Roger Aeschliman (left, cjonline photo by Steve Fry) will present "General George Patton: Apology to the Troops", and the Laudate Ringers will perform "America the Beautiful" and "Stars and Stripes Forever". WIBW General Manager Jim Ogle will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The special exhibit "U.S. Armed Forces Around the World" will be open throughout the evening in the Fink Exhibit Gallery.

Tickets are $150 per person, $250 per couple, and $2,500 for a "Leadership Table". Persons interested in attending may visit the Great Overland Station at 701 North Kansas Avenue or call at 785-232-5533.

It is so important for us to support happenings like these, especially when they are located at such historic and beautiful sites. Supporting events at those sites keeps them viable and available for decades to come.
_________________________________________________________________

Black Jack Battlefield

Soooooo good to see old buds at Black Jack on Saturday! The Friends of the Battlefield worked so hard and did a tremendous job putting on a long and quality event. Kerry Altenbrend, above, portrayed John Brown for the reenactment of this 1856 confrontation that many historians (myself included) consider to be the first battle of the Civil War. Also in fine form, my friends Greg Higginbotham, below right, and Dan Hadley, left. (These boys are really outstanding in their fields, aren't they?)

Other friends who were there: Shane Seley, Denver Erickson, Dale Vaughn, Bob Szabo, Ed Hoover, George Bernheimer, JoAnn Barber, Ed Leydecker, etc, etc. Attendance was well over a thousand for the day's events.

________________________________________________
Checking email and Facebook today:

From Freddy the Plumber back in Mayberry:

Did you know- Ken Curtis/Festus was lead singer for the Sons of the Pioneers???

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWR6FLnPack&feature=related

Why, of course I did! Thanks for the link and the opportunity to share that tidbit with others who are less informed. I do happen to be one of the biggest fans of Ken Curtis (right) who died in 1991. In fact, when I had the opportunity to have dinner with Buck Taylor a couple of years ago (Newly from Gunsmoke), I told him, "You were cute but Ken Curtis was really handsome!" Buck generously agreed.

From Rick Herrera on the road in London:

A WWII battlefield untouched since 1942. An absolutely amazing story!
http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2010/06/07/lost-wwii-battlefield-found-war-dead-included/

Keep the cards and letters coming, folks! Surely, my friends are the most interesting and creative people on this planet!

Black Jack Saturday--Battles and Buds!

2010-06-04T12:37:00.011-04:00

Thank God we've gotten moved into our new home in time for the reenactment at Black Jack Battlefield. Coordinated by my good friend, Shane Seley, co-owner of Wideawake Films, this promises to be the best yet. I can hardly to wait to see so many old friends and introduce Gary to even more of my "hysterian" buds like Greg Higginbotham, with Shane above; now that's a pair to draw to! This photo was taken while they were working on the really excellent Wilson's Creek documentary.

By the way, Jan Biles did a great little feature on this event in the Topeka Capital Journal: http://cjonline.com/news/local/2010-05-30/black_jack_battle_to_be_re_enacted

The Lecompoton Reenactors will add their historical and dramatic abilities to the event which will raise money for the preservation of the site. So many people have worked so hard and so long to keep this spot along the Santa Fe Trail viable and to educate the public about the first engagement of the Civil War. I know there's a lot going on, but take time if you can to visit.

The Cap-Journal does a great job of letting folks know about events in the area and just want to take a minute to thank Bill Blankenship, Steve Fry, Jan Biles and a host of others who work very hard to showcase local talent and effort. Which reminds me: Art Walk tonight. This is absolutely the best party in town and it's FREE!!! After the Art Walk, check out our local music scene. Visit topekatonight.com for details.

Is this a great country or what?

What's in a name?

2010-05-28T08:41:00.007-04:00

There are many colorful figures from America's Civil War -- personalities that only Freud could have invented. Many names are forever linked to that epic struggle--Lee, Jackson, Grant, Sherman. No name is so quickly identifiable with the South, however, as the dashing, debonair, distinguished, and devastatingly handsome Beauregard.

Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard was born this day in 1818 on a plantation about 20 miles from New Orleans. His Creole heritage gave him an olive complexion, dark eyes and short stature. (The movie, The Hunley, featured Donald Sutherland as Beuregard which is stretching the truth about 18 inches, but it's still a great movie. . . .) This is a name only Charles Dickens could have invented for it virtually drips of Southern-ness and courtly manners. Merely speak the word "Beauregard" and the scent of magnolias fills the air.

The colorful and charismatic "Little Napoleon" had a successful career as a businessman and public servant in his beloved Louisiana following the war. Romania and Egypt begged him to come command their armies, but he declined.

He is entombed in the mausoleum of the Army of Tennessee at Metairie Cemetery. I have paid homage at his grave.

If I could choose a moment of time to experience, I think it would be to have the gallant Beauregard bow and kiss my hand. Let's all toast with a hurricane.

New Discovery

2010-05-17T05:29:00.000-04:00

. . . from Freddy the Plumber in Mayberry:

After having dug to a depth of 10 feet last year, New York archaeologists found traces of copper wire dating back 100 years and came to the conclusion that their ancestors already had a telephone network more than 100 years ago.

Not to be outdone by the New Yorkers, in the weeks that followed, a California archaeologist dug to a depth of 20 feet, and shortly after, a story in the LA Times read: "California archaeologists, finding traces of 200 year old copper wire, have concluded that their ancestors already had an advanced high-tech communications network a hundred years earlier than the New Yorkers."

One week later a local newspaper, The Mount Airy Times, reported the following: "After digging as deep as 30 feet in his back yard, Bubba Simpson, a self-taught archaeologist, reported that he found absolutely nothing. Bubba has therefore concluded that 300 years ago, North Carolina had already gone wireless."

Just makes me proud to be from North Carolina.

The Wedding of the Year!

2010-05-13T22:40:00.005-04:00

It has been called. . . Here is my handsome groom...doesn't he look happy? Here I am, below. Don't I look happy? If you are so inclined, you may visit topekatonight.com, scroll down to other, then click on Deb G. Gary and Deb's wedding is one of your choices. There is the video, in 3 parts. It was a beautiful service, conducted by our friend Sue Ann Seel with music by our friends, High Falutin' Stringband and Dave and Kim Houser. More pictures to come. These were taken by our dear friend, Doug Ruth, God Bless Him!

Wedding Bells

2010-05-08T08:31:00.002-04:00

Today is our wedding day. We are surrounded by so much love and so much good will. My dear friends, Dan and Carol Ann Turner are hosting our reception. We have laughed, cried, bitched, moaned, laughed, cried and toasted life together. We could not love them nor appreciate them more.

Blessings to you all today.

US

2010-05-02T21:24:00.001-04:00

America--The Story of US is the most impressive documentary I've seen since Ken Burns Civil War. What an incredible achievement. Between packing and planning, I've caught much of it. Being a Virginian (have I mentioned that in previous posts???), I especially enjoyed the story of John Rolfe, told correctly. Also, the computer generations used in this film really work and further one's understanding. This is exactly what technology is supposed to do. Kudos!

Making History

2010-04-23T06:59:00.004-04:00

There is no greater joy for an historian than finding a diary, heretofore unread, written by someone who lived through momentous events -- the battle at Gettysbury, the burning of Et-lanta, Stoneman's Raid. There is no greater woe than to reach those dates only to find the diary entries scant or missing entirely. Why? Because there was no time to write. So much was happening so quickly, there was no time to document it all. By the time the writer got back to keeping a journal, there was no point in recording what had happened days or weeks earlier.

That's where I find myself, Dear Reader. In preparing for the upcoming nuptials and remodeling a house, I haven't even had time to do my nails much less write about the momentous goings-on of present day or days gone by. I wanted to write about the passing of that great American Fess Parker, and I am not being facetious when I say that. Here was a man, idolized by millions of children, who recognized that and lived in such a way that he would not tarnish the names of Daniel Boone or Davy Crockett, the men he so wonderfully portrayed. I would so like to have known him. Tom Perry did a very nice tribute on his Free State of Patrick blog so check that out. I wanted to write about the discovery in Tombstone of the coroner's reports following the shootout at the OK Corral (These should be online shortly if not sooner). Alas, no time.

I so look forward to a home and an office where real work can be done. . . . Alas! Life gets in the way!

Top photo: My granddaughter, Lulu, who will be my maiden of honor at said nuptials. . . . Baby blue, white and silver will be our colors. . . . Cotton candy all around!

Frank James Gun

2010-03-21T11:08:00.003-04:00

From the Southwest Times, Fort Smith, Arkansas:

Frank James’ Gun Presented To Museum

By Mary L. Crider

Times Record • mcrider@swtimes.com

U.S. Marshals Service historian and Marshals Museum Board member David Turk presented the board with the planned museum’s first “draw piece” donation Tuesday — a .22-caliber gun that once belonged to Frank James, brother of Jesse James.

Turk said he wanted to do something meaningful for the national museum.

Museum Executive Director Jim Dunn said the gun would be a prize piece in the museum’s collections.

Turk said he bought the gun at an auction in 2005, before he knew about Fort Smith. It was part of a collection of artifacts discovered in an old wooden trunk in a barn in Scott County, Ky., on land that belonged to James’ ancestors for centuries.

The gun grip is marked with an “F” for Frank James and is notched, Turk pointed out. It is intact although not functioning. Turk said he thinks the gun is one of many James used in his criminal career.

Welcome to Google

2010-03-12T10:30:00.005-05:00

So, Topeka has changed its name to Google.

Mayor Bill Bunten has made international news by declaring that the place that used to be a great place to grow potatoes (in a very loose translation of the Kanza language) to the hub of the internet universe. Life has changed drastically for those of who are Googlians.

The sun has begun to rise earlier and shine longer. The wind is coming from the south instead of the north. The snow and ice have turned to gentle rain. People are nicer to one another, more patient, more kind. IQ scores are going up at all our schools. Musicians are in tune and playing with more passion. Artists are using brighter colors (Even Barbara Waterman Peters has painted a yellow crow. Oh, no, just kidding!) The garbage men are whistling. Somehow, the traffic lights change in unison. The geese are returning to the ponds at 6th and Gage. Gray, brown, black clothes in the stores have been replaced by pinks, blues, oranges. Snow shovels have been pushed aside in the hardware stores to make way for marigold and lettuce seeds. Googlians have shed their heavy coats and are breathing more deeply, walking more, drinking less.

We should have changed our name to Google in January.

*Image of Google sign, CNN

Me and Mary Jane

2010-03-09T11:03:00.004-05:00

I had the great pleasure of addressing the volunteers of Old Prairie Town at Ward Meade Park a few days ago. Such a wonderful, richly historic and beautiful home, garden, buildings. The best time to enjoy this scenic spot is coming up soon -- literally. The warmer temperatures and spring rains remind us that Tulip Time is upon us. Mary Jane Ward (in the portrait above) would approve of all these folks visiting her home and the care and attention given to the gardens that surround it.

My topic was one near and dear to my heart, Topeka Cemetery. I still have a few copies of Stories in Stone, the book I did several years ago about that historic spot. Drop me an email if you want one. They're only $10 and feature some awesome photography by local builder, Brad Davenport.

Actually, I strayed a bit in my presentation and got on the history soap box. . . . They were a generous and forgiving crowd. . . . Their fearless leaders, Sara Leeth and John Bell are just the best!

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Trading Spaces

Since my house fire in January, Gary & I have been looking for a place to live. We've made an offer on a house, so keep your fingers crossed for us! In the meantime, the townhouse he's been in for 9 years is available and it's a great deal! Tell your friends and email me if you're interested in more details.

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Smoky Hill Trail Association

I just got a call from Mike Baughn, past president of the above, who informed me that the 2010 trail conference is set for October 15-17 in Limon, Colorado, and the association website is up and running. Kudos, guys! Hope to see you there. smokyhilltrail.com

Kansas Rocks KTWU

2010-03-03T07:20:00.012-05:00

I was just visiting with my friend Lee Wright, patriarch of a talented family and chief fundraiser for our local public TV station, KTWU. Many good things can be said of Washburn, but KTWU is truly a jewel in its crown.

KTWU's big fund-raising push is coming up this weekend and a highlight will be our very own Kansas performing with Washburn's symphony. This is a recording of a live performance at White Concert Hall earlier in the year. The event quickly sold out so if you are among the thousands who missed it, this is your change to correct that omission. It airs from 8 to 9:30 pm Saturday night (Chanel 11 in most areas, though KTWU covers a third of Kansas and a little bit of Nebraska and Missouri, so check local listings if you're in doubt.)

Growing up in the Blue Ridge Mountains, my only connection to the band Kansas was that of faithful fan--like millions around the world. My betrothed, however, is a little closer. Back in 1969, he was playing keyboards with a band called "Rain." Other members were Jeff Glicksman (who went on to be producer for the band Kansas), Dave Hope, Richard Williams and Jim Craig. Gary recalls that now-famous guitar rif that opens "Dust in the Wind." It was Richard's "finger exercise" to warm up for a show. Later, Kerry Livgren would find just the right words to catapult that tune to the top of the charts. During February's concert, Kerry performed with his former bandmates, a highlight that thrilled old fans. The current line-up of Kansas is: singer/keyboardist Steve Walsh, guitarist Rich Williams, violinist David Ragsdale, bassist Billy Greer and drummer Phil Ehart. The 50-piece Washburn Symphony Orchestra accompanied the band, conducted by Larry Baird. Guitarist Steve Morse was featured as well.

Lee Wright commented that Ehart will be in the studio live for the fund-raiser. (Ehart, Livgren and Hope attended Topeka West High School.) The DVDs and CDs from the concert will be premiums for pledge-makers this weekend.

Raising money is a tough proposition in this economy, and Lee recognizes that some people may not have the same resources they have had in the past. The public support of KTWU remains healthy, however, and a big reason is quality programming like Sunflower Journeys.

Tune in this weekend, and when you call in your pledge tell 'em Deb sent you!

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Bearss for Battlefields

To call Ed Bearss a legend is understatement. To call him a national treasure is fact, not flattery. To call him old is well, accurate but misleading.

At well past 80, Ed is unstoppable. He has an appearance schedule that would stagger a man a third his age. If we could harness Ed's energy, our crisis would be solved.

So, it's no surprise to see that Ed has a new book except to ask, "When on earth does he have the time to write???"

Jerry Brent, Executive Director of the Central Virginia Battlefield Trust, along with the Blue & Gray Education Society are offering Ed's book as a way of supporting battlefield preservation. Receding Tide: Vicksburg & Gettysburg: The Campaigns that Changed the Civil War is available through this link.
http://cvbt.org/BGES_CVBT_Bearss_Book_offer.html

While you're at it, Adam Goodheart had an excellent profile of Ed in Smithsonian Magazine in 2005 ( The photo above was taken from that article.) http://www.smithsonianmag.com/people-places/bearss.html

Waskie Gone Wild

2010-03-02T09:52:00.007-05:00

I am fortunate to know some people who are extremely passionate about history. Some are in treatment programs. Some lead inspiring lives. Case in point: Anthony Waskie.

My dear friend Andy founded and serves as the president of the General Meade Society of Philadelphia. This prestigious group meets regularly to pay homage to the "Victor of Gettysburg" or "The Man Who Saved the Union." They have trips, galas, historic talks, wreath-layings--all manner of events to remind us of contributions of those gone on before.

I love these people! Let's face it--you have to be a bubble off plumb to show up at a cemetery in freezing weather on New Year's Eve to drink champagne and toast a man who has been dead more than a century. Perhaps. If so, the mania is spreading because each year Andy leads a throng of hundreds on the pilgrimage to the General's grave in Laurel Hill Cemetery. I have been honored to speak to this group and to accompany them on many travels. They are a shining example of what passion and determination can accomplish.

The General would be proud!

Bill at the Moose

2010-02-27T15:23:00.005-05:00

Just because I didn't have time to share it with you yesterday does not mean I didn't celebrate myself. Yesterday was the anniversary of the birth of the dashing William F. Cody. Be still my heart!

I am headed to the Moose Club to hear Borderline (featuring Gary on keyboards). Sometime during the evening, I will propose a toast to the man who probably chugged some whiskey in North Topeka on the very spot the Moose Club sets today.

To Bill!

Title Match: George Vs. Abe

2010-02-22T08:45:00.006-05:00

That great and most famous Virginian, George Washington, was born on this day in 1732.

About a year ago, CSPAN released the results of its Historians Presidential Leadership Survey. I was dismayed that Washington beat out Abraham Lincoln for the number one spot, but at least Washington was up from a shocking number 3 in the 2000 survey. I would have expected as much from the public, but not from a body of learned historians. (I was among those historians, and I did not rank Lincoln at the top. I put Washington first. Just for the record.)

Washington tied with Lincoln on moral authority, which is understandable in the context of history. Where Washington fell woefully behind is commitment to equality for all. That is understandable in the context of history, but I'm not sure it is a fair comparison in the context of their times. Each man carried out his duties with vision and with an understanding of human nature that is rare.

I asked the esteemed historian Allen Guelzo, who also participated in the SPAN poll, how he felt about the Washington/Lincoln rivalry:

Deb: It all depends on who you ask, and when. In 1865, people imagined Lincoln and Washington as co-equals, the one the Father of the country, the other the Savior of the country. I don't mind seeing Washington and Lincoln jockeying for the top-spot today, so long as people remember that, coming after them, there's a long, long gap before we hit No. 3.

Ha! Well put, Allen. I would like to see our students learning more about each president and the context of the time in which he served so that the public can intelligently evaluate their service and intelligently select the next one. Ah....pipe dreams....

Read the results of CSPAN's poll for yourself and see if your opinions match those of the historians: http://www.c-span.org/PresidentialSurvey/presidential-leadership-survey.aspx

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Boys Back When

I'll bet you good money that George and Abe tied Junebugs on strings as boys. This photo comes from my friend and fellow hillbilly, Byron Chesney. Growing up in the mountains of Tennessee, Byron was fortunate enough to participate in many timeless forms of entertainment. Click on the link to his blog, "The Life of Tug," on this very page. Tell him Deb sent you. You may also find the origins of that famous saying, "What does a redneck say right before he dies?" Answer: "Watch this!" There were many such episodes in Byron's life, but I have to admit, I think it's a guy thing no matter where they're from!

2010-02-11T12:26:00.008-05:00

Mail call: Received instructions for judging History Day competition on February 27. We have a thank-you dinner the night before at Greg Fox's Row House Restaurant. Gary & I are treating our friends who worked tirelessly to help us move after our fire. I have to report bright and early to Washburn University that Saturday. . .hope I'm thinking clearly after Friday's festivities! Saturday night, Borderline plays the Moose Club. I love watching those people dance!!!! The members of the Moose are a generation of people that learned to REALLY dance.

Now, back to History Day. I have been a judge and a coach in the past. History Day produces some incredible results and Topeka kids always do well in the national competition. The theme this year is "Innovation in History: Impact and Change." I can't wait to see what the results of the students' creativity and research.

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Cowboys and Indians

Picked up the latest copy of Cowboys and Indians which is absolutely the most beautiful publication on the stands. This is the "Photographing the West" issue and the images are riveting. Fred Chiaventone has an article on Ridgway Glover, an ill-fated photographer who died during Red Cloud's War. It's an incredible story.

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Santa Fe Trail

Gary had never seen this movie so we corrected that a couple of nights ago. Bless his heart, he still hasn't seen it because I kept interrupting with either history lessons or commentary. I'll play it again one night and tape my mouth shut so he can actually enjoy it.

It was funny; when the movers/cleaning crew were packing up the house after the fire, they missed Santa Fe Trail. I found underneath the TV. It was a sign. This is the movie that changed my life, pathetic history that it is. It was strange that it was the DVD that slid out of strangers' hands and waited for me to pick it up and bring it home.

Yeah, I need new meds.

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Photo of the Day

Okay, I don't care who you are. This is funny.

Fire and Rain

2010-01-31T08:18:00.004-05:00

I try to edify, dear reader. I look for events or people that I feel will add value to your life someway. Sometimes, the blog becomes something of a journal of my own life, which is neither good nor bad as long as it is relevant. Today, it will be a cross between a sermon and a journal, and I hope you find comfort or edification or encouragement. Forgive me if it is too personal.

Those of you who are closest know that this has been a tumultuous year--or two or three or five, truth be told. Lots of changes: new relationships, new losses.

I awoke shortly before 2 a.m. Thursday morning to a smoke-filled bedroom. I woke Gary and from there time lost all meaning except that his mother's funeral was at 10:00 a.m. and he was supposed to play piano and be at the church by 8:30. I think it was around 5 when the firetrucks left and said the smoke was clear enough for us to go back inside. The power was shut off and there was a gaping hole in the bedroom. A pile of debris in the yard buried my brand new knee-high boots. The cats, though terrified, were safe and so were we. I don't know what woke me up but the wall was bubbling and buckling and in a few minutes the ceiling above our bed would have been in flames.

Before I met Gary, I said never. Never again will I be married and I certainly won't get involved with someone who has a parent living. I've been through living with my mother-in-law through Alzheimer's and have buried parents and in-laws. I was done.

But I met Gary, and God put something new in my heart. Not long after we met, he took me to Lexington Place to meet his mother. She welcomed me with open arms because she could see I love her baby boy. She was becoming forgetful--I'm not sure she ever remembered my name, but it didn't matter. She held my hand and told me stories of Gary's playing the piano when he was five years old.

The night she died, I was holding one hand and his sister was holding her other hand. The thought kept coming to me, "Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his saints." Mama had this carved on Granny and Grandpa's headstone. Gary's mother's death was precious and beautiful and humbling.

After the fire, Gary wasn't up to playing for her funeral, but he had played for her when it counted--on Christmas Day when she was there to hear it. She had her children with her, and her sister-in-law, Hazel. Hazel is a gentle little woman, like a little bird. They were a comfort to one another. And she had beautiful music from this gifted man she had brought into the world. (Below, Gary took this on Christmas Day: his Mom, Lois Bisel; me; his aunt, Hazel Luthi)

Yesterday, I was going through kitchen cabinets, washing and packing up dishes. I kept crying. This fire brought back memories of fires.

Our first house burned when I was 9 years old. We had gone to church, gone to the zoo, gone to visit friends. When we got home, there was no home. But there were people we loved standing around this charred, gaping hole waiting for us. They never determined the cause of the fire but did figure out it had begun in the attic. Perhaps a mouse had chewed a wire.

Our second house burned when I was 17. We had gone to church on the coast, so we left around 5 a.m. By 10 a.m., the house was totally destroyed. This was arson. There was a "firebug" in our community and he must have watched us leave. I can still remember watching Mama walk around the house again and again to make sure nothing was left on.

My third fire occurred as an adult. Daddy and I had remodeled a trailer he had bought and put on one his farms. It was adorable and it had so many precious things--quilts Granny and I made, needlework Mama had done, a pencil drawing done by Willard Gayheart of Uncle Tommy Jarrell. Lightning struck while I was at work and my daughter Karen was with Mama and Daddy. Thank God we weren't there asleep because in only 10 minutes it was totally engulfed.

When I awoke last Thursday to a smoke-filled house, Gary ran outside to see flames coming through the exterior wall. He was the one who saw the rolling, red, orange, yellow, fire eating the house. He grabbed the fire extinguisher and got that stage of fire under control. I never saw the flames. I never saw any flames of any fire that touched my life. I do have the unforgettable memory of the smell of loss, of helplessness.

I look for meaning in events. I look over these scenes and cannot help but think of the children of Israel in the fiery furnace. The flames did not touch them. But did the smell linger with them to remind them where they had been?

I don't know why my life, and the lives of my family, have been punctuated by fire. We all have different lessons to learn, different gifts. I know that God has been present throughout my life, and in the times of His choosing, He has given me insight and hope. He has given me, at this point in my life when I thought "never, never" an affirmation, a "forever."

Amen.

Living

2010-01-27T06:11:00.008-05:00

. . . sometimes gets in the way of blogging.

Pernell Roberts has died. WITHOUT A DOUBT, the handsomest of the Cartwright Clan, Pernell's Adam was my heartthrob each week as Bonanza blazed across the TV screen. And that voice! Rich as molasses and deep as Lake Tahoe. That voice came straight from the soil of Georgia and the good-looking actor was a singer as well. He was also an activist--an actor with a mind and a heart and a conscience.

While shopping at Walmart a couple of weeks ago (yes, Walmart, I hate to admit it, but Walmart), Noel and I began digging through the bin of $5 DVDs and lo and behold, there was Bonanza. This multi-DVD set included three episodes of Wagon Train. Is this a great country or what?

Upon putting this treasure into the DVD player, I found to my consternation that the original sound score is not part of this production. Some of my Hollywood buds are going to have to decipher for me exactly how someone has the ability to legally distribute a TV show without having the rights to music? Maybe Louis Kraft can weigh in on that one.

Pernell was the last of the Cartwrights to leave us. Pictured left with costar Dan Blocker, Pernell was somewhat critical of the TV show that made him famous and left to pursue avenues that provided greater range for his skills. He later starred in Trapper John, MD. He was a fine actor.

In honor of Pernell Roberts, several friends have already had "popcorn and classic TV night." I suggest you do the same. But maybe you should spring for the high-dollar version of Bonanza. Without the signature music, it's just not the same.

(Photos compliments of Bonanzaworld.com, a truly fantastic website for any of us Boomers who grew up with this show.)

Happy Birthday

. . . to Julia Dent Grant (January 26) a truly remarkable, decent, devoted woman. Not known for her beauty, Julia nonetheless possessed the qualities of a real lady. God knows, there's almost no comparison between her and Mary Lincoln whom she succeeded as first lady. Read Julia's memoirs. They are fascinating. Julia died in 1902 and her children lived well into the 20th century; a daughter-in-law lived until 1945. The past is not far behind us.

The Year in Pictures

2009-12-31T18:48:00.050-05:00

Here I am . . . at St. David's Episcopal Church. Gary snapped this from the scaffolding where he and his cousin, Jim Bass, were working on the sculpture of Christ that had been damaged in the fire that destroyed the sanctuary. I have been talking with Tamra Scheid at Visit Topeka about putting together a tour of Topeka churches. Those featuring the works of Jim Bass will be front and center. His garden gates at the Congregational Church are perhaps the loveliest site in Topeka.

I was looking at photos posted by a couple of my buds. Fred Chiaventone posted this image of himself with longtime friend, colleague and former roommate, Dave Petraeus. It's a wonderful photo and I'm tickled to share it. Fred, and his wife, Sharon, are two people I consider myself fortunate to know. They are talented, disciplined, interesting. If you have read this blog at all you know that Fred is one of my favorite authors. One of my proudest possessions is a certificate signed by General Petraeus thanking me for my media participation at Fort Leavenworth. I had the opportunity to visit with him on several occasions and to hear him speak often. He's simply the best of the best.

Another great image appeared from my bud, Phil Schrier, an NRA bigwig, with his hero and "president," Charlton Heston. Phil is one of my favorite people and I know how much this photo means to him. If you're ever in the DC area, stop in and tell Phil hello. The museum at the NRA offices is really spectacular and features, by the way, a lifesize statue of Charlton Heston as Will Penny.

I started going through some of my own pictures from the past year. How lucky we are to have cameras; how lucky we are to have the internet through which to share them; how lucky we are to have one another to make these good times and to share them with one another. How lucky I am to know such interesting, talented and dedicated people. Like this man, Gary Bisel. How Gary & I didn't know each other for so many years is beyond me, but the important thing is that we met and became inseparable. God's timing is right, Gary reminds me, and I have to agree.

This one was taken of Gary and me at one of the Sidelines jams, hosted by Josh Vowell and the Rumble. Every Wednesday night, the blues band hosts a jam of some wildly interesting folks. Stop in and tell them Deb sent you.

Earlier in the year, I had the great pleasure of working on the mayoral campaign of city councilman, Jeff Preisner. It was a treat to get to know Jeff and to work with the other great folks who believe in him. I still believe in Jeff and would campaign for him if he ran for president or dogcatcher. He's a good guy and we're lucky to have him in city government. Nope, he didn't make mayor but the campaign team learned a lot and perhaps next time, there will be bigger and better fish to fry!

One of the areas of my life for which I am most grateful is history. In the paraphrased words of Darryl Strawberry, "History been very, very good to me." Through the study of history, I have come to know some incredible people, both living and dead. Among the most dear and distinguished is Michael Burlingame. Michael spoke to a packed house at the Lied Center in Lawrence earlier this year, and Ken and Terry Hobbs and I drove over to visit him and to enjoy drinks afterward at the Eldridge Hotel. Here we are--Terry, Ken, the 16th president, Michael and myself. It's rare to get a photo op with Lincoln!

Like Gary, Sue Ann Seel is one of those people that I should have known since we have so many folks in common. We have been aware of one another but when we found out we were soul sisters in bluegrass, the tie was tightly bound! Here we are--some Wednesday night at the Little Grill in Manhattan, Kansas, waiting for Chris Biggs and Steve Hinrichs to kick into high gear. When Sue Ann isn't picking banjo she's preaching. I think we must be related somehow.

Since moving to Topeka, two women have become dear friends and lasting influences upon me. They have enouraged me to express myself, to have fun, to give back to my community. June Windscheffel (left) and Marge Heeney(right, below) are known to nearly everyone in Topeka and in many parts beyond. When Marge was honored by the American Business Women earlier this year, swarms of talented women were on hand to pay homage. The every flamboyant Marge encouraged women to don distinctive hats and man, noone's hat was more unique than Carol Ann's!

In the picture below, Terry Hobbs, me, Carol Ann Turner and Lynn Stillings. Terry (looking very Jackie Kennedy-esque) is a real estate agent and history convert. (Sooner or later, everyone succumbs.) Lynn and her husband, Mark, were on our winning trivia "Team Turner" a couple of years, along with Dan and Carol and Cheryl Logan and John Arnold. We stomped the competition! And we were incredibly un-gracious winners. The event was a fund-raiser for blind athletes and the prizes were great, among them, dinner at Greg Fox's Row House Restaurant. We would have physically kicked butt for that one!

In March, I spoke in Philadelphia among some distinguished folks. The best part though, was hanging out with my dear friend, Carol Waskie -- so smart, so beautiful, so talented. Here we are in one of Philly's fine pubs complimenting one another.

Speaking of talented people, the lady who comes to mind first and foremost is Barbara Waterman Peters. She is an incredible artist and a wonderful, original human being. This photo was taken when I spoke to the Friends of the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library. I was thrilled that Barbara and her talented husband, Larry, would turn out to hear me speak. Also in the audience was Gary Clarke who put the "world famous" in the world famous Topeka Zoo. Surely, I know the coolest people on the planet.

One of the best things about this year was the emergence of my alter ego, Dixie Lee Jackson. Dixie, is just like me but has big hair and more fun. As it turns out, she found her true love in Woodrow Dean (below).

Dixie Lee found her true barbecue love with Cow and Sow 2 Wow. Here, Dixie Lee and Kari Forman at their booth at Advance Auto's car show. Since then, they have opened a permanent place at 2nd and Gage Boulevard. Kudos, Kari & Steve!!

Longtime friend and mentor, Doug Wallace, had a grand soiree at his newly redecorated home. Champagne and good times flowed freely.
My sister-in-law, Scarlet, came to visit and we had a gay old time. Gary, me and Scarlet at a local pub.
The lovely Brenda Miller and myself at "Dome Party."
I love this picture. Gary's cousin, artist Jim Bass, snapped this on top of the church where he and his wife, Jean, had an art exhibit. In the background is Kansas City's Plaza.
Inside the church, Noel and I checked out the sanctuary.

Dixie Lee had so much fun this year. She hosted the Apple Festival at Old Prairie Town. Dixie Lee and Sara Leeth, director of this wonderful site.

My first Winfield experience!!! Kelsey Cohen, Mick Brazeal, Nancy Hewitt, and me!

Dixie Lee also hosted the Grape Escape at TPAC. Barbara Wiggins does such a fantastic job there!
Of course, the best blessings are babies and we got one this year...my grandson, Devyn-Ray.
A wonderful Christmas Day with Gary's mom. She fell the next day and her health has declined quickly. How grateful we are to have had that special day with her and the rest of Gary's family.
Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and my brother, Dave Chuber. Gary snapped this one in September.
Also in September...Gary on the ferry as we crossed the Ohio River. It was a glorious day.
One of the giants of Custer lore and legend...Father Vince Heier. What a wonderful time we had with the Little Bighorn Associates!
The culmination of years of research was Jim Speicher's new volume on the Sumter Flying Artillery. Great event in Kansas City with Jim and his wife, Cindi.
A highlight for me was the induction of Buffalo Bill into the Kansas National Guard's Hall of Fame. For my bud, Dale Vaughn, the highlight was the induction of James Ross. Details on both in coming blogs.
Oh heck, another highlight of the year: meeting Dean Smith. What a fantastic evening at Topeka High discussing the segregation that marked the 1949 (and previous years) basketball teams. Dean was captain of that team; Jack Alexander was captain of the all-black Ramblers.
Halloween (could you guess???) at Varsity Blues....Carol Ann and Gary. A good time was had by all!
Dixie Lee woke up Washburn! WU's president, Jerry Farley, explaining the Ichabod bobblehead to bubblehead Dixie Lee.
And finally, waving good-bye to this year, I wanted to share this image of Santa in Afghanistan. We are enjoying life, pursuing our dreams, stumbling, fumbling along in our lives while all over the world, good men and women are undergoing tremendous stress and making incredible sacrifices so that we can work hard, goof off, and sometimes lie on the sofa watching classic movies. God bless them, every one!

Breaking Up Christmas

2009-12-27T09:00:00.013-05:00

No, we haven't shoveled the sidewalk nor have we shoveled the steps. Gary did so a couple of weeks ago when we had the big snow and his back has hurt ever since. With the way this snow was blowing, it really wouldn't have mattered anyhow. That being said, I may get out and move some white stuff around today. Maybe.

The internet is never more miraculous than when one is snowbound. Last night, we poured a couple of glasses of wine and I wanted Gary to hear "Breaking Up Christmas," an NPR production by my old friend, Paul Brown. There are sound clips on Amazon, so check it out. One of the clips included Eleanor Coleson. Eleanor was married to my cousin, Jess. I loved Jess and Eleanor. Hearing her voice just caused me to choke up unexpectedly. Hearing Uncle Tommy Jarrell sing always does that. There are so many recordings and film snippets of Uncle Tommy. But Benny, his son, is on this album as well. Bless you, Paul, for keeping them alive!

"Breaking up Christmas" comes from the tradition of going from home to home each night from December 25 to January 6. (Granny did not call this night Epiphany; she always referred to it as "Old Christmas.") So folks played and sang and danced and broke up Christmas. This is the tradition I so wish to revive!

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Arnold's Christmas Stories

Dear friend, scholar and historian, Arnold Schofield, has written a wonderful article in the Fort Scott Tribune on Christmas during the Civil War. Check it out at http://www.fstribune.com/story/1597453.html

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A Tribute to Austin

On this day in 1836, Stephen F. Austin, father of Texas, passed away. He was 43 years old and Texas barely a Republic. The blood still stained the ground of the Alamo from that March. Sam Houston still roared like a lion.

Stephen F. Austin, I never tire of reminding people, was a Virginian. Read my post from March 5, 2007, for more on this beloved figure. At right, the Shot Tower, which stands on the banks of the New River, near Austinville, Virginia. Austinville, Stephen's birthplace, was the home of the lead mines that furnished the materials for the shot made in this massive structure. Austinville was named for Stephen's dad, Moses.

The railroad track that runs by the river, just below the tower, has been converted to biking/hiking trails and is glorious. It leads to Fosters Falls, also a state park now. When I was younger, it was still private property but we knew folks with access to it and Fosters Falls was my refuge when the world became too much.

The image below is Wytheville (pronounced with-vul or, wifful), Virginia, earlier this month. Wytheville is the county seat of Wythe County (which includes Fosters Falls and Austinville). Isn't it lovely? Somebody sent me a snow/frost/ice photo of Fosters Falls, would you, please?

A Blizzard of Blessings

2009-12-24T14:49:00.011-05:00

The blizzard is begun. We are snug in our little bungalow, Gary and I, watching the flakes get bigger and bigger. He is making an omelet and we'll wash it down with some wine. An "Acoustic Christmas" is on the CD player. He is whistling along. Noel and her baby are safe and warm. Tomorrow, we'll have Christmas dinner with his mother, most likely her last Christmas here on Earth. We will give the baby his first little wooden rocking horse. We had hoped to be back in North Carolina and Virginia right now, but God had other plans. We are blessed.

This Christmas Eve, while you are gathered in your church, with your family, with people you love--stop and breathe in the stillness. One of the first instructions to relieve stress is to take deep breaths. My gift to you is a poem by William Stafford:

The Center

Whenever you breathe God comes in:
"I'm home again, I'm home."
And curtains lean, then resume
their silent wait.

Listen--that is the sigh of welcome,
and after that no breath.
Whenever God stands, it is there that
the world will start again.

Merry Christmas and God be with you.

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More Gift Ideas

Kansas has such an unique and rich history that I look for any opportunity to share it. Our friend, George Paris, has shared his own story so eloquently that I daresay it is one of the best collections of stories to be put to paper, but then to be read in his melodious voice is just a bonus.
Back When I Was Alive is a collection of George's memories from his Dust Bowl youth in western Kansas. Read more about him and find out how to get this CD at http://webwork.washburn.edu/cas/webgraphics/f09/web229/hoove999/

Another talented Topekan is Andy McKee. To call Andy a guitar virtuoso would be an understatement. I'm sure that any guitar he touches is thoroughly exhausted after being played, but tingles in the corner anticipating the next time Andy picks it up. His video is just about the most watched on Youtube.com and he is receiving accolades and playing concerts all over the world. Andy also contributed to Josh Groban's 2007 grammy nominated Christmas album, Noël, playing guitar on the song "Little Drummer Boy". Groban's album went on to become the best-selling CD of 2007 in the U.S.^[7], hitting #1 on the U.S. Billboard 200.

Anything by Andy would make a perfect gift. Visit andymckee.com for more information.

Spread a little Kansas cheer this Christmas season by giving away these three talented Kansans--William Stafford, George Paris and Andy McKee.

We are, indeed, blessed.

Tattoo Barbie

2009-12-23T12:33:00.010-05:00

I'd say this makes it official. We have, indeed, gone to hell in a handbasket.

Safety Warnings:

CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts. Not for children under 3 yrs.

Product Description Over 40 easy, no mess tattoos to design and decorate Barbie doll's fashions! Customize the fashions and apply the fun temporary tattoos on you too! Barbie doll includes additional fashions, tattoo stamper and tattoos.

Snow in Lowgap and Gift Suggestions

2009-12-19T16:38:00.019-05:00

Is this not the most inviting scene? This is the creation of my cousin Cindi's two boys, Tim & Logan. The foot of snow that landed in Lowgap, North Carolina, was obviously enjoyed. I'm including some of her other photos, showing their home in the mountains. She commented that in weather like this, a husband with a backhoe is a handy thing. (Eat your heart out, Red Green!)

The view of the mountains (below) from Cindi & Victor's deck is the Blue Ridge in North Carolina and Virginia. Isn't it beautiful? And you can see the pines around their home. . . Lowgap is famous for Christmas greenery.

The young men responsible for the "cool" living room decor lounge to the left. Creativity really does run in my family!

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Christmas Gifts

Got my first Christmas present the other day. Gary bought me The Assassination of Jesse James starring Brad Pitt. I jumped up and down I was so tickled!!! Isn't the image above just awesome? I'm sure my bud Chuck Rabas will weigh in, but honestly, this movie is worth the price just for images such as these.

This leads me to some gift suggestions for those distraught shoppers among you. Let's make it an historic Christmas!!!!

*Oil lamps. Have you heard the weather forecast? Oil lamps can be bought cheaply at Dollar General or more expensively at an antique store, but be sure to include lamp oil.

*Abraham Lincoln: A Life by Michael Burlingame (left). While you're sitting there in the lamplight, you might as well be reading the ultimate biography of a very interesting and inspiring man, written by a very interesting and inspiring man. Okay, I'll level with you: This is a two-volume, two-thousand page tome and the cost is equivalent to our wine budget for the month (okay, the week), but not since William Herndon has there been such a significant work on the 16th president.

*Moon of Bitter Cold by Fred Chiaventone. Today is the anniversary of the Fetterman Massacre, 1866, just outside Fort Phil Kearny, Wyoming. Fred's account of Red Cloud's War is priceless. The historic characters we know and love come to life in this novel--(people like Margaret Carrington and Jim Bridger). There is talk of a mini-series. Gosh, I hope so. While you're at it, buy A Road We Do Not Know...I can scarcely talk about this book without weeping. Absolutely the best account of the Little Bighorn.

*Gatewood and Geronimo and Lt. Charles Gatewood and His Apache Wars Memoir by Louis Kraft. Some folks worth knowing have been gone for a long time. Thank God we have people like Louis to bring them back to us, wholly and warmly. I can't tell you how much I love these two books, how much I love Louis, and how I can't wait to read his work on Ned Wynkoop. Louis can teach the class on how to write a memoir.

*Memberships. We all have enough crap. Let's give an experience--a newsletter that keeps coming, an admission that gets us in again and again. Some of my favorites:
Shawnee County Historical Society, Topeka
Pattee House Museum, St. Joseph, Missouri
Civil War Roundtable of Eastern Kansas, Topeka
Kansas City Civil War Roundtable, Mission, Kansas
The Great Overland Station, Topeka

*Music. I am the newest and most ardent fan of Mike Finnigan. Search youtube.com and get a sample of "Let Me See the Light." In fact, that is my gift to each of you.

*Movies. Everyone knows I'm hooked on old westerns. Anything with Errol Flynn and Olivia DeHavilland. Newer ones, movies with a message--just think about the person and what you want to say. There's a movie that fits and it gives joy again and again.

*Art. Do NOT, and I repeat, DO NOT, buy art from a furniture store or KMart or Walmart, or even Target or Macy's. Go to your local art gallery, tell them how much you can spend and get something original and unique. I know too many artists to offend anyone by mentioning names here, but there is something out there to fit your pocketbook and taste. I PROMISE!!!

Okay? Is your mind moving in a different direction? Are you ready to make Christmas an historic event? I knew you could do it. Let me know if you need more help. I'm here for you.

Friends

2009-12-14T06:40:00.017-05:00

In this season of counting my blessings, I put friends at the top of the list, but next must be the internet. Somehow I missed the October issue of Wild West. (Lapsed subscription, perhaps?) Anyhow, as I was perusing Historynet I came across this great article by Johnny Boggs. The interviewee is my dear friend, Louis Kraft(with me, above), and his subject is Ned Wynkoop (below). Never heard of Ned Wynkoop? Well, Ned is worth knowing, and thanks to Louis, you will have the opportunity to meet him. This quote comes from Johnny's article:

JB-Why have many historians overlooked Ned Wynkoop? LK-He is ignored by historians who only read what has already been published—a sentence here, a paragraph or two there. Like Lieutenant Charles Gatewood, 6th U.S. Cavalry, he, for well over a century, has been a footnote in history or relegated to the circular file. The reason is simple: Edward W. Wynkoop lived his life on the frontier his way. And, like Charlie Gatewood, he had a conscience and refused to accept the views of his times, the 1860s. This placed him at odds with the settlers, the press, the military, the government and even the Indians he worked with. Wynkoop’s stance during the 1860s Indian wars on the central and southern Plains turned him into a pariah. He dared to speak up against everything he thought was wrong.

Read the rest of this article at: http://www.historynet.com/magazines/wild_west

When I commented to Louis on the quality of the article, he replied:

Johnny's a good, good friend of mine. Actually, I need to talk to him about a writing project that I now won't get to until January 2010 at the earliest. . . . Johnny's a class act, a terrific person, one of the best novelists writing today, and I'm glad to call him "friend."

I'm glad to call Louis "friend." I am also encouraged that good people of conscience, like Louis, are applying their talents to history. Likewise Johnny Boggs.

Jerry Choate Obit

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Jerry Choate, well-known to many Kansans as well as those in the field of natural history. He had been a frequent guest on my radio show and was just a joy. Blessings to his family. His obit:

Sunday, Dec 13, 2009

HAYS – Dr. Jerry Choate, 66, former Fort Hays State University professor and director of the Sternberg Museum of Natural History in Hays, died Dec. 9, 2009, in Denver, Colo.

Jerry was born March 21, 1943, in Bartlesville, Okla. After earning his bachelors degree from Pittsburg State University in 1965, he received a doctoral degree from the University of Kansas in Lawrence in 1969 and began his career at Fort Hays State University in 1971. Jerry retired in June 2009 from Fort Hays State University, where he had worked for nearly 40 years, teaching in the department of biological sciences and serving as director of two different museums – the Museum of the High Plains and then the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

Among many other professional groups, Jerry was a longtime supporter and member of the Southwestern Association of Naturalists.

Besides his wife, Fi Choate, Jerry is survived by his son, Judd; and a granddaughter, Mahlon.

His body will be cremated and a memorial service in Hays is planned for a later date.
Through the Fort Hays State University Foundation, the Choate family is setting up a memorial for graduate students working in mammalogy at the Sternberg Museum of Natural History.

Tommy Phillips Dies

My Kansas friends will not recognize this name, but folks back home will. Tommy's family operated the Mountain Top Restaurant and Motel at the top of Fancy Gap Mountain, Virginia, (below) for generations.

When my older daughter, Karen, won Little Miss Blue Ridge, we went to have breakfast the next day and she took her trophy, crown and sash to show Tommy. Over country ham and buckwheat cakes, I commented that this honor had not gone to her head and what an humble little beauty queen she was.

Tommy laughed, and asked, "Is that so?"

He could see Karen behind me, primping and adjusting her crown in the mirror above the piano.

Tommy will be so missed I don't even have the words. He was a friend to me and to my sister, Denise, for so many years. We have so many wonderful memories as does his family and we send them blessings.

I had a grandson born November 30. I am reminded that we take our turn coming into this world and we take our turn leaving it. Let us make the most of our time here, be kind and considerate of one another, and appreciative of the blessings of the rich relationships God has given us.

Gene Barry Passes

2009-12-11T09:18:00.015-05:00

For most of us, names like Wyatt Earp, George Custer, and Buffalo Bill first came to us not through history books but through television and movie screens. Certainly that is the case with Bat Masterson.

My first memory of the dashing Western lawman was the dashing Gene Barry (right) who portrayed him on television. Gene Barry has died at the age of 90, after a long and accomplished career and a marriage that lasted 58 years until his wife's death in 2003. A salute to the man that brought Bat Masterson to our living rooms. For more on the real Bat, visit this article by my friend George Laughead: http://www.skyways.org/orgs/fordco/batmasterson.html

Only in the South. . .

My sister shared this news article with me:

BOUTTE, La. – A 44-year-old woman was booked with second-degree battery after allegedly pouring a pot of boiling grits onto her sleeping boyfriend. St. Charles Parish sheriff's deputies said Carolyn Brown caused second-degree burns on the man's face and arms. The man told deputies that he came home from work on Nov. 7, got into an argument with Brown, told her that he was breaking up with her, then went to bed.

The Times-Picayune reported Brown was arrested Wednesday and booked into the Nelson Coleman Correctional Facility.

Well, assault is never a laughing matter but you can rest assured that not since the War (and you know which war I mean), has a Yankee been attacked through the use of grits so this is a headline you will only read in the South. Likewise, the news story out of Charlotte about a daycare provider selling two gallons of moonshine out of her childcare facility is uniquely Southern. In fact, selling moonshine at all is a story you're just not going to read up North, much less doing so out of a daycare center!

By the way, the moonshine jug pictured to the left could be yours for only $97. Visit http://www.euroluxantiques.com/Antique-Barware-Earthenware-Stone-Crock-Moonshine-Jug-P16958.aspx

I'm assuming it's empty.

And while we're shopping, want to buy a red jacket to benefit the Fisher House Foundation and the Wounded Warrior Project?

It’s not just any red jacket. It’s the red jacket Sarah Palin wore for the photo of the cover of her new book, Going Rogue.

Palin donated it for auction through radio talk show host Laura Ingraham’s show and Web site. All proceeds will go to benefit the two military charities. It’s getting pricey — as of the afternoon of Dec. 10, the bid had reached $7,500.

Bidding continues through 5 a.m. Eastern Time Dec. 18.

And last but not least on our shopping list today, the DVD of The Only Good Indian, directed by Kevin Willmott and starring Wes Studi, is now available on the website: theonlygoodindian.com. See my blog of a few days ago for a critique of the film. Better yet, just buy it and decide for yourself how good it is.

Two Western Men To Remember

2009-12-09T09:43:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow, December 10, is the birthday of two unforgettable faces, and voices, from my childhood. Though both men are long gone, what they represented to me, and to millions of others, yet lives: Chet Huntley and Dan Blocker.

"Goodnight, Chet; Goodnight, David," was the catch phrase of the 1960s. A child of that decade, I sat glued to the news, though I thought it boring, because of Chet Huntley. He looked like my Grandpa Bowman, and he commanded attention and authority the way Grandpa did.

Huntley was a "western man," born in Montana to a Union Pacific railroad dad; born, in fact, in the UP living quarters in the hamlet of Cardwell. I believe his personality and values were shaped by the West.

“[I used to believe] the government was the answer to all our problems. But the . . . government, I've concluded, is now an insufferable jungle of self-serving bureaucrats.”*

and, the quote that every school of journalism should post over its front door,

“Journalists were never intended to be the cheerleaders of a society, the conductors of applause, the sycophants. Tragically, that is their assigned role in authoritarian societies, but not here -- not yet.”*

Huntley died in Montana at the age of 62. I wish I had met him, but I knew him, valued him, and think of him still.

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It is unimaginable to me that Bonanza could not be a part of your personal lexicon of American culture. I loved this show, and sent cereal boxtops in to General Mills to receive my own color photo of the stars, including Dan Blocker who played the lovable Hoss Cartwright.

Hoss was big, good-natured, noble, dependable, generous--and, though not the most handsome of the Cartwright men, the most irresistible. Those who knew Blocker say he possessed those same qualities in spades. He commented that he played the character with this quote in mind, "We shall pass this way on Earth but once, if there is any kindness we can show, or good act we can do, let us do it now, for we will never pass this way again." ("Bonanza", Bear Family CD Collection liner notes) The enigmatic Texan was an English teacher, a bouncer, and a rodeo performer before heading to Hollywood. A Korean War veteran, he opposed the war in Viet Nam.

Sadly, he died at the age of 43.

Let us recall the lives of these two Westerners with gratitude for their lasting contributions to our society and the integrity which marked their time on this earth.

*Chet Huntley quotes from Thinkexist.com

Sunday Morning Coming Down, with Caffeine and Magazines

2009-12-06T14:13:00.009-05:00

Spent the morning with daughter, Noel, and her little boy, Devyn, at Barnes and Noble. This has always been a favorite way to spend Sunday morning for me and my girls. Grab a latte and about a dozen magazines, read the most interesting parts to each other, and watch the world hustle by on Wannamaker Road.

So, my dozen magazines this morning were the usual: history, military history, and home decor. I have some great stuff to pass along to you!

Armchair General has a fantastic cover and the inside is just as great with history-making photographs. You'll find many of these familiar; some less so. For example, the Boer farmers from the war by that name really struck me and made me want to know more about that episode in world history.

Veteran filmmaker, author and rodeo personality Dan Gagliasso has a really interesting article on father and son artists, and I believe this appeared in The Cowboy Way. Is that right, Dan? As always, his writing is so engaging and his subject is fascinating. Of course, American Cowboy featured lots of comments on Dan's article (or was it several?) on John Wayne. . . .

A big note of congratulations to American Heritage on 60 years!!!! Just the other day, I was perusing one of those hardbound-issues, June 1959, and found an excellent article on Sir Walter Raleigh. Bruce Catton was the editor then and surely it was the Golden Age of Journalism. This venerated publication keeps up the heritage of quality with this issue, a primer on American history by the best in the business! This copy is a must-have!! Kudos to the staff!

Finally, GQ. Yes, I read GQ. Clint Eastwood graces the cover and is billed as "Badass of the Year." (This is because GQ is a guy's magazine and you have to say something like that to get their attention; nonetheless, the writing is excellent!) I have to say Michael Hainey's article is one of the most honest and relevant interviews with a "star" that I have ever read. Get it. Read it. Take it to heart.

Oh, on a personal postscript....Christmas present for your mother, Karen. Renew my Barnes & Noble card:)

Life Before Prozac...or TV

2009-12-03T09:52:00.005-05:00

On this day in 1828, Andrew Jackson and John C. Calhoun (above) were elected president and vice president.

What did they have going for them, you might ask? Hair, I might answer, rather, unruly hair. Obviously, these guys were not concerned about the tv cameras. Jackson and Calhoun walking down the street together would have scared small children. Can you imagine them on Meet the Press or the evening news with Katie Couric?

Also, both men had the reputation for being outspoken. Oh hell, that's putting it mildly! Jackson, of course, is noted for his response to the Supreme Court who sided with the Native Americans and against Jackson on the question of Indian Removal.

"Let'em enforce it!" said Jackson of the decision, as he proceeded to do exactly as he pleased.

You know though, in these days where wishy-washy politicians say anything to get elected, get ahead on their looks (ala John Edwards), and never back up what they say with their actions, I find myself longing for a world before Prozac and television.

Ode to John Brown

2009-12-02T11:15:00.007-05:00

On this day in 1859, Abraham Lincoln was in Leavenworth, Kansas, on a speaking tour that many believe was the warm-up act for his presidential campaign. While there, he received the news that John Brown had been hanged in Charlestowne, Virginia, for treason, murder, and conspiracy. Lincoln chose his words carefully, and said while we may sympathize with John Brown's goals, we cannot condone these acts of violence.

Oh, to have read Lincoln's thoughts! Did he have any idea that this was the spark, the spark that would take us into the bloody Civil War?

Lou DeCaro has a great blog on this same server: http://abolitionist-john-brown.blogspot.com. His commentary Sunday was excellent, a discussion on the possible pardon of John Brown and why he does not support it. Honestly, I am odds with Lou on many issues, though I respect him greatly. On this one, I think he is right on every point. While you're there, click on the priceless footage of Johnny Cash's portraying John Brown from the mini-series North and South.

There is a great article on HistoryNet.com by Robert E. McGlone, "The Madness of John Brown." I believe this first ran in Civil War Times. It's excellent.

Tonight, Prof. Jonathan Earle is speaking at the Brown v. Board site here in Topeka. A new portrait of John Brown will be unveiled. I'll share photos later.

As my friend Jack Davis so succinctly said, "John Brown is simply a mountain in the path of American history. You simply cannot go around him."

Bobby Byrd, Zach Taylor, and the Chestnut

2009-11-20T12:58:00.010-05:00

We lived in the woods. In those woods were the corpses of American chestnut trees, great trunks that we imagined as trains or the walls of forts. Chestnut burrs littered our woods but the fruit was long gone. . . Granny told us stories, wonderful stories of this miraculous tree that that had tragically disappeared. . . .

from The Mount Airy News (North Carolina):

by Meghann Evans

The News Dr. Charlotte Ross speaks at the annual meeting of the Surry County Historical Society about the chestnut tree and its role in Appalachian life.

The history of Appalachia came alive last night as Dr. Charlotte Ross spoke to the Surry County Historical Society about the role of chestnut trees in mountain life.

Ross presented “Fallen Heroes: The Chestnut in Appalachian Life and Chestnut Trees Now” at the annual meeting of the Surry County Historical Society.

“I thought it was fantastic. It makes me want to find out more and see what we can do to bring them back to Surry County,” said Linda Stanfield, chairperson for the meeting.

Marie Judson came to the meeting. She said, “I loved it. She was wonderful. And I’m interested in chestnuts.”

Judson said she wished she had had a professor as interesting as Ross when she was in school.

Ross is an adjunct professor at Appalachian State University and has a doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. She has been the director of the Appalachian Regional Collection at ASU, president of the Council of Appalachian Women and chairperson of the Appalachian Studies Conference.

A group of 46 people gathered at Cross Creek Country Club to share a meal and listen to Ross’ lecture. She spoke about how the traditional mountain society flourished around the chestnut tree. Her speech was sponsored by the N.C. Humanities Council.

In a press release, Ross said a “triple whammy of outside forces” came to Appalachia in the 1930s and ’40s: the chestnut blight, Great Depression and World War II. She presents the idea that the loss of the American chestnut tree may have had the strongest impact on the area of the three.

Ross, a folklorist with a passion for the Appalachian region, shared stories she had gathered about the chestnut tree. Born in 1941, she missed the age of the chestnut tree in America. She said people would frequently point this out to her as she began giving lectures about regional history when she was young.

Older people would describe for her the tall chestnuts that bloomed white in the spring and turned to a bright yellow in the fall.

She said when those people look out at the mountains now, “That’s not the Appalachia they knew when they were young children.”

Ross spoke of the chestnut gatherings people used to have, where they gathered at the tops of mountains to collect chestnuts and fellowship. Many people got married as a result of meeting at these gatherings.

“It was the social event of the year,” she explained.

According to Ross, people years ago used every aspect of the chestnut tree. They made flour and milk with it, turned it into food for their animals, used the burrs for decorations, used the wood to build their homes and used the bark for shingles.

“It was their economy. It was more than that ... The whole world was defined by chestnuts,” said Ross.

Chestnut trees grew an average of 100-feet tall and five feet in diameter. One record Ross found said it took 14 people joining hands to circle around one tree. The family then used the one tree to build their house and barn.

“I didn’t know they were so big,” said Judson after listening to the lecture.

Ross said sadly, “But when the blight came, everything changed.”

A fungus was accidentally imported that wiped out the American chestnut in the late 1930s. Now scientists are working to back cross-breed the chestnut to make it blight resistant. A 9/10 American chestnut tree is just about ready to be distributed.

“I love that tree,” said Ross. “Not just for its beauty, but for the role it played in Appalachian life.”

She urged people to join the American Chestnut Foundation, www.acf.org, and work to bring the trees back.

Some people in the crowd came to the meeting specifically to hear about the chestnut tree. Fred Jones from Mount Airy said this is what brought him to the meeting.

Matt Edwards, director of the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, wanted to come to the meeting to forge ties with the members of the society. He said their role in preserving history is extremely important for local museums.

“We’re a small museum. The relationship with volunteers is critically important,” he said.

With a limited number of employees, the museum can only undertake a certain amount of research.

“But I’m in a room full of lay historians ... This is the best group of people imaginable for a museum,” Edwards said.
_________________________________________
Taylor's Presidential Coin

Another story dear to my heart, from Appomattox Area News:

The United States Mint will celebrate the release of the Presidential $1 Coin honoring Zachary Taylor — the Nation’s 12th President — in Taylor Park on Tuesday, November 24, 2009, at 10 a.m. Eastern Time (ET). The ceremony, part of the festivities planned for Zachary Taylor Appreciation Day in Orange, Virginia, will be followed by a coin exchange where adults can exchange their currency for Zachary Taylor Presidential $1 Coins. Children 18 years old and younger will receive a Zachary Taylor Presidential $1 Coin to commemorate the occasion. The event is open to the public and the media.

The Zachary Taylor Presidential $1 Coin is the 12th coin released in the United States Mint’s Presidential $1 Coin Program. The coin, released to the Federal Reserve banks on Thursday, November 19, features a bold portrait of President Taylor on the coin’s obverse (heads side) and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse.

WHERE: Taylor Park
Main and Caroline Streets
Orange, VA 22960-1532

The society holds an annual meeting each November in which the community can take part. Society members meet regularly throughout the year to discuss how to preserve the county’s history.

Yes, Dear Reader, that stern gentleman is Zachary Taylor-- soldier, statesman, Virginian and father-in-law of Jefferson Davis. Davis was a soldier when Taylor's daughter, Sarah Knox, married him. Her father, who had been Davis's commanding officer during the Mexican War, had not approved--not necessarily because he didn't like Davis (though knowing him personally might have given him increased insight into the enigmatic personality), but Taylor did not want a soldier's life for his daughter. Sadly, she died a few weeks later leaving her young husband devastated. Taylor's other daughters married soldiers as well and his son, Richard, became a lieutenant general in the Confederate Army.

To Zachary Taylor, an extraordinary man.

_______________________________________________________
Fiddling Bobby Byrd

Bobby Byrd has had an incredible week with two milestones--becoming the longest serving member of Congress and celebrating his 92nd birthday. The West Virginian is legendary, not only for his legislative longevity, but for his musical ability.

Perhaps his gift for oratory and his prowess with a bow come from the hills of North Carolina, North Wilkesboro to be exact.

The illustrious U. S. Senator was born Cornelius Calvin Sale, Jr., in 1917 and when his mother died a year later in the flu pandemic, his dad dispersed the kids among relatives. The baby went to Titus and Vlurma Byrd, an aunt and uncle who renamed him Robert Carlyle Byrd.

His birth in North Wilkesboro explains a lot about the tenacious politician and we'll write more about that later.

In the meantime, a toast to a fine fiddler!!!

Lincoln, Lincoln, Lincoln

2009-11-19T06:48:00.006-05:00

The Lincoln Forum is in progress in Gettybsburg. I long to be there; Remembrance Day is this weekend and a legion of friends are/will be among the throngs. Carol Neuman Waski called last night and she promises to call and report live from the festivities this weekend. There will be much speechifying and wreath-laying and a little imbibing. Damn! I hate to miss it!

In the meantime, pay homage to our 16th president by visiting http://www.historynet.com/putting-a-face-on-the-burden-of-war-lincoln-face-morph.htm. We all look in our mirrors with horror at how we've aged; this remarkable series of images demonstrates how much Lincoln aged during the worrisome years of leading the country through horrific war.

(Illustration by Wendell Minor, The Atlantic Monthly, for Garry Wills's article, "Lincoln's Greatest Speech." Read the article while you're there. It's very insightful.
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John Arnold on Kansas Public Radio

John Arnold delivers a brilliant commentary on KANU, Kansas Public Radio, this morning at 6:30 and 8:35. John is the author of Fallback Position and asserts we should all have one. Right now, listening to Paul Brown, my old friend, on NPR. Thank God for public radio!!!!

For History Professors Everywhere

2009-11-17T13:01:00.006-05:00

For my friend, David Fitzpatrick, professor of history at Washtenaw in Ann Arbor, MI. Through his students, Dave has recently learned much about the presidency of Henry Ford. Finally, a worthwhile use of money and technology:

from Associated Press:

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A beverage company has asked a team to drill through Antarctica's ice for a lost cache of some vintage Scotch whisky that has been on the rocks since a century ago.

The drillers will be trying to reach two crates of McKinlay and Co. whisky that were shipped to the Antarctic by British polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton as part of his abandoned 1909 expedition.

Whyte & Mackay, the drinks group that now owns McKinlay and Co., has asked for a sample of the 100-year-old scotch for a series of tests that could decide whether to relaunch the now-defunct Scotch.

Workers from New Zealand's Antarctic Heritage Trust will use special drills to reach the crates, frozen in Antarctic ice under the Nimrod Expedition hut near Cape Royds.

Al Fastier, who will lead the expedition in January, said restoration workers found the crates of whisky under the hut's floorboards in 2006. At the time, the crates and bottles were too deeply embedded in ice to be dislodged.

The New Zealanders have agreed to try to retrieve some bottles, although the rest must stay under conservation guidelines agreed by 12 Antarctic Treaty nations.

Fastier said he did not want to sample the contents.

"It's better to imagine it than to taste it," he said. "That way it keeps its mystery."

Richard Paterson, Whyte & Mackay's master blender, said the Shackleton expedition's whisky could still be drinkable and taste exactly as it did 100 years ago.

If he can get a sample, he intends to replicate the old Scotch and put McKinlay whisky back on sale.

"I really hope we can get some back here," he was quoted as telling London's Telegraph newspaper. "It's been laying there lonely and neglected. It should come back to Scotland where it was born.

"Even if most of the bottles have to remain in Antarctica for historic reasons, it would be good if we could get a couple," Paterson said.

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Ritchie House Events

Big doings at the Ritchie House this Saturday. At 11 a.m., "The Underground Railroad in Kansas" -- a performance given by historian and educator, Anne Hawkins, portraying Mary Jane Ritchie. Then at 1 p.m., "The Trial of John Ritchie Upon the Shooting and Death of US Deputy Leonard Arms." The Ritchie House is located at 1116 SE Madison, Topeka, and is a project of the Shawnee Country Historical Society. For more information, contact Robin Shrimplin at 785-232-5622 or robin.shrimplin@hotmail.com.

Sunday

2009-11-15T14:13:00.010-05:00

German Field Marshal Erwin Rommel (left) was born on this day in 1891. My friend Jerry Morelock reports that Rommel's face sells magazines. For more on this fascinating fellow, visit Armchairgeneral.com.

Tyrone Power died on this day in 1958. He was only 44 years old. My favorite role, of course, is that of the title role in Jesse James with Henry Fonda portraying Frank. God, I love this movie! I love every minute of this movie and am hard pressed to choose my favorite scene. The opening, of course, is great when the railroad agents visit the James Farm only to be bested by Frank as they attempt to take advantage of his mother. (Like ANYONE could have taken advantage of Zerelda! She had more guts than Frank and Jesse put together. . . .but that is a story for another day. . . .) Your assignment, take this movie from your collection and pop it in the DVD player. WHAT? You don't own it? For shame, for shame! I'm compiling a list for your Christmas giving, Dear Reader, musthave movies and books. Stay tuned.

. . . it was on this day in 1806 that Zebulon Pike saw Pike's Peak. Of course, it wasn't Pike's Peak until then. . . . I know you've read the journals of Lewis and Clark, and you know my feelings for Lewis and Clark (they were Virginians, after all) but do read Pike's journals as well. He lived fast, died young, and left a beautiful corpse. . . .

. . . and finally, Dear Reader, it was on this day in 1864 that William Tecumseh Sherman burned Etlanta. . . Damn him.

It is a cold, rainy day in Topeka. I'm searching youtube.com for fast-paced bluegrass tunes to fight away the blues. I suggest you do the same. Look up Lonesome River Band and watch Sammy Shelor pick that banjo! Whooowheee!

Then sit back, pour a glass of wine or a glass of shine, and close your eyes and just listen to the music and the rain.

The Only Good Indian

2009-11-12T08:01:00.008-05:00

"The only good Indian is a dead Indian!"

This is generally attributed to Gen. William T. Sherman, or his designee, Gen. Phil Sheridan. It's a powerful title. And, it's a powerful film.

Veteran media person Beth Meyers joined Gary and me at Lawrence's Liberty Hall for the film last night. Any excuse to visit this venue is acceptable, but a Kevin Willmott film is a double delight. (Gary, the musician, lived in the projector room years ago but that's a story for another day, or, perhaps a movie. . . )

The Only Good Indian: The storyline is perfect; the script needed some work; the cinematography is spectacular, though a little inconsistent sometimes; the acting is superb (which, of course, is always a nod to the director as well as the actors); the faces are unforgettable, beginning with Wes Studi.

Studi's face is so interesting, his range of expression so vast, that I dare say his face alone could carry an hour or two of film even if you couldn't understand what he was saying and he had no one else onscreen. That being said, this is not his most powerful performance, but it is a solid, credible performance. He is capable of such intensity, such seduction, and the film does not build to that level.

The other face is that of J. Kenneth Campbell--THE white man. His face, too, is a novel--a long, well-worn, passionate, violent novel. With these two men, Kevin had a goldmine and I'm not sure he ever got all the gold from it. But, the treasure he lays at our feet with this movie is pretty precious.

The third face, is Winter Fox Frank, the boy who escapes from Haskell Indian School. In stark contrast to the two men above, the perfect soft complexion, the unwavering gaze--this young man's face was perfectly cast.

Kevin has a genius for framing a shot and the Kansas backdrop is used to its greatest advantage. There were so many shots that I wanted to keep, images that spoke volumes. In fact, I'll bet there are Kansans that will be taken aback by familiar landmarks or landscapes used in innovative ways.

See this movie, buy this movie, share this movie. It's important, it's artful, it will keep your attention.

Bill Makes Hall of Fame

2009-11-09T09:18:00.009-05:00

Yesterday was one of my most gratifying days as an historian and a woman.

William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody was inducted into the Kansas National Guard Hall of Fame and I was the historian on film who described his exploits.

A capacity crowd filled the ballroom at Topeka's Ramada Inn as the Association of the Kansas National Guard inducted four new honorees. My friend, Doug Jacobs, accepted the award on Bill's behalf. Doug worked long and hard for Bill to be recognized. Many people know him only as a showman and were oblivious to his true accomplishments. As I watched the film footage with Bill's photos, I looked into his eyes and my only thought was how much I love this man. My second thought was, By God, Bill, you better appreciate this!!!!

As I told Gary, "Bill is the only person you have any reason to be jealous of." (Gary, having good sense, is not overly concerned about losing me to a dead man.) Michelle Henry, Association of the Kansas National Guard, joked about editing the film footage. They took out all the parts where I was slobbering slavishly over the man.

I'll write more later and post pictures, but in the meantime, see Steve Fry's article in today's Topeka Capital Journal: http://cjonline.com/news/local/2009-11-08/four_inducted_into_hall_of_fame

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Big Doings in Dodge

Have I mentioned how much I miss my dear friend George Laughead? Well, I hope to remedy that in December when I try my damnedest to get to Dodge City for the return of the "historic docket book which contains the escapades of some of the most famous lawmen in the American West." Quoting from Dodge City's official press release, "Wyatt Earp (below, left), Bat and Ed Masterson and many other historical lawmen are chronicled in the court dockets contained in this original tome. A glance through its pages is like a window opening onto the history of the old west."

I am beside myself with excitement!

The Boot Hill Museum will sponsor a public viewing of the book from 3 until 6:30 pm. on December 7 in the Old House Saloon.

Why so much excitement? Well, this historic document "got gone" as we say in the hills. It was recovered through the efforts of Ford County Sheriff Dean Bush (his investigators and staff), FBI agents, Ford County Prosecutor Terry Malone, and, drum roll, Ford County Historical Society President George Laughead. The book has traveled a long, crooked, convoluted road back to its rightful owners --- the folks in Ford County, and they are taking its return seriously. While on display, the book will be guarded by the Dodge City PD, the Ford County Sheriff's office, and, another drum roll, Special United States Marshal Charles Meade.

Arrangements are being made to scan the pages of this document for wider access to researchers. For more information, contact Christa Roy with Dodge City at 620-225-8100 or the Boot Hill Museum's Lara Brehm at 620-227-8188. Tell 'em Deb sent you.

Passing of Ted Yeatman

2009-11-06T10:24:00.005-05:00

My friend Chuck Rabas left me a message on the phone yesterday. . . "Ted Yeatman has died. . . ."

For those followers of the Jameses and Youngers, Ted is a familiar name. Author of the classic, Frank and Jesse James: The Story Behind the Legend, Ted had established himself as a foremost authority on the outlaws, the Civil War, the war on the border. His research was invaluable. Ted had a great interview with my hero, CSPAN's Brian Lamb, on October 28, 2001, and the transcript is online at http://www.booknotes.org/Transcript/?ProgramID=1642. Ted will be greatly missed.
Ted's obituary follows:

YEATMAN, Ted (Trezevant) P.Born December 16, 1951; died November 1, 2009 at Washington Adventist Hospital in Takoma Park, MD from respiratory and cardiac problems. A resident of College Park, MD, he lived in the Washington, DC area for the past decade. Ted's lifelong fascination with the Civil War began in boyhood, and led to his career as a historical researcher and author. Ted was known to many in the field for his meticulous and thorough scholarship. The author of the critically acclaimed biography, Frank and Jesse James: The Story Behind the Legend, Ted gave interviews for several History Channel documentaries, and for the 2007 feature film, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, in its Special Edition DVD commentary. He was the discoverer of documentation proving that the Pinkertons were behind the bombing of Jesse James' home. His articles appeared in such magazines as True West Magazine, Old West, Civil War Times Illustrated, and The Quarterly of the National Association and Center for Outlaw and Lawman History. Despite facing significant challenges, Ted produced a body of work of lasting importance and enjoyed his life. Ted took particular pleasure in historical re-enactment and recently participated in the 1812 Grand Tactical at Jefferson Patterns Park in Sept., 2008. He also appeared as a confederate soldier in the film Gettysburg. He was born in Nashville, TN and graduated from Peabody Demonstration School in 1970. He started college at Missouri School of Mines in Rolla, MO, and finished his B.A. at Peabody College in 1976. He also earned a Masters in Library Science from Peabody in 1977 and a paralegal certificate from George Washington University in 1993. He was preceded in death by his parents, Trezevant P. Yeatman, Jr. and Nancy Lee McDearman of Nashville, TN. Survivors include his uncle and aunt, Dr. Harry C. Yeatman and Jean A. Yeatman of Sewanee, TN and his first cousins, Ruth Kriz of Fairfax, VA, Devan Cook of Boise, ID, John Whiteside of Columbia, MO, Martha Whiteside of Sonoma, CA, Clay Yeatman of Lilburn, GA and Jean H. Yeatman of State College, PA. A Memorial service will be held in 2010 at St. John's Church in Maury, Co., TN. Online condolences to Legacy.com. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to The James Farm, 21216 Jesse James Farm Road, Kearney, MO 64060. (pictured above)

Women of the West

2009-11-03T15:21:00.006-05:00

. . . was my topic for the Friends of the Library annual meeting on Sunday. It was great to be asked back to speak to this auspicious group of folks. I was their featured speaker a couple of years ago and I am so impressed by the money this group raises and how much they give to our community.

My topic was Women of the West and we discussed the meaning of the West, the LOCATION of the West (which seems to shift and for example, is California the West? Hell no! Is Wyoming the West? Hell Yes!)

It was interesting: I asked the audience how many of them were native Kansans. Most of them raised their hands. I asked how many considered themselves "Westerners." Only a couple of hands shot up.

"That's funny," I said, "because where I come from, we certainly consider you Westerners!"

We talked about that icon of Western Women, Annie Oakley.

"Does anyone know where she was from?" I inquired. They shook their heads.

"The great Western state of OHIO!" I informed them. "That definitive Woman of the West came from Ohio."

"Little Sure Shot," as she was dubbed by Sitting Bull, was supporting her family with her hunting skills at the age of 15. Unlike the movie version, she BEAT sharpshooter Frank Butler in their first encounter and he was smitten. They were married and shared life for 50 years before her death on this day in 1926. He died less than three weeks later.

So, dear reader, the West is a place of becoming, of recreating the world and oneself, a place where self-determination, self-reliance, and ability really do matter. The women who made it their home were, and are, special creatures.

The Devil Went . . . .

2009-10-28T12:14:00.004-05:00

If your first response to the above is "The Devil Went Shopping" you're probably from New York City. But if your first thought is "The Devil Went Down to Georgia" you're a by-God Southerner and a Charlie Daniels fan.

This big boy from Carolina was born in Wilmington on this day in 1936. What you might not realize is Charlie was a session guitarist in Nashville, yes, guitarist, and recorded with Bob Dylan and toured Europe with Leonard Cohen. What a mix!!!

I have loved Charlie Daniels for as long as I can remember. His absolute and unshakable faith, his creativity, his ability, his compassion for his fellow man--all these characteristics combine in an unique person. He once commented that he wasn't really an outlaw, more of an outcast.

To be cast out in such good company would be an honor. Happy Birthday, Charlie. God Bless.

Wyatt

2009-10-27T11:28:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was the anniversary of the most famous shootout in American history. Depicted in countless movies and TV shows, the incident that occurred near the O. K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona, has been debated and debunked, idealized and strategized.

Unscathed in the incident was the most famous of the Earp brothers, Wyatt (above). Luckier than his siblings, he lived long and unwounded. This photo was taken just a couple of weeks before his death at the age of 80. This is my favorite picture of him. It is an image of a man to be reckoned with, even at 80.

A toast then, to Wyatt.

Sumter Flying Artillery Arrives

2009-10-21T11:24:00.010-04:00

Whenever a new history book arrives in the mail it's like Christmas and I was sure celebrating when The Sumter Flying Artillery showed up Monday. Written by my bud, Jim "Spike" Speicher, this work chronicles his ancestor's unit during the War Between the States. President Jimmy Carter has a blurb on the jacket, and it turns out that his ancestor fought along with Spike's. The Prez allowed Spike to publish a poem he wrote upon finding his ancestor's war letters in the attic. It is beautiful, simply beautiful. So is the cover art by Dale Gallon. I've just started the book and will write more later, but I have to tell you, the photographs are priceless! Over the years, Spike has accumulated some incredible images of the men who served in this unit, as well as the stories that accompany them. Kudos!

The Sumter Flying Artillery: A Civil War History of the 11th Battalion Georgia Light Artillery
James L. Speicher
Pelican Press
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Appreciating Harold Mitchell

Last Sunday was "Harold Mitchell Appreciation Day" at the Fairview Ruritan Building, not too far from Galax, Virginia. Harold is an emcee/dj legend and one of the best guys ever (Harold, center, is pictured with two bluegrass legends, Lester Flatt and Bill Monroe). I so wish I could have been there but my sister, Denise, ably represented me to the friends present. Sherry Boyd (below, with dobroist Kenneth Berrier) emceed this event and I wish we could have a couple of days to catch up on old times from our days together at WPAQ.

For your edification, dear reader, I'm copying April Wright's interview with Harold which appeared in the Galax Gazette. Great job, April. I'm trying to locate an article I wrote on Harold many years ago. He grew up in Fries, Virginia, as did my Grandma Coalson, so he knew much of my family, including my Aunt Nancy Bobbitt and told me great stories of her.

When local DJ and emcee Harold Mitchell was bedridden with rheumatic fever at six years old, the radio kept him company as he listened to the legends on the Grand Ole Opry.

During the five-hour radio program, he would hear greats such as Hank Williams, Hank Snow, Kitty Wells and comedians and radio announcers. However, it was the harmonies of Bill Monroe's Bluegrass Boys that caught his ear, and that’s when he fell in love with bluegrass.

From then on, he knew one way or another he was going to be in the radio business.

“I knew that to be in the industry I would have to get to know all the bluegrass and country musicians,” said the 71-year-old.

And he proves he did, as he flips through a photo album filled with pictures of bluegrass originators and legends, such as Bill Monroe, Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs. Mitchell has met everyone from Cousin Joe to Minnie Pearl.

“You see that chair?” he says as he walks into his house, pointing out an orange, tattered vintage recliner he plans to have reupholstered. “That’s where Bill Monroe used to sit when he visited.”

Mitchell began his emcee career at Fries High School in 1956, when he introduced Charlie Monroe and his Kentucky Partners. And when he got out of the army in 1964, he attended the Carolina School of Broadcasting and soon became a DJ at WHHV in Hillsville.

Mitchell has emceed the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention since 1973, introduced to stages all over the country some of the biggest names in bluegrass and country and worked as a DJ for several bluegrass and country radio stations, including the one in Galax for 25 years.

He made successful the Carroll-Grayson Hoedown show, broadcasting from the Fairview Ruritan Club every Saturday for 10 years, and introduced the idea of the Fries Fiddlers Convention in 1965. He traveled as emcee for Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt and has interviewed many great artists, his first being guitarist Wayne Henderson of Rugby.

“We didn’t have the country magazines like we do today,” said Mitchell. “So I kept up with what was going on in the business and told people about their favorite stars. I had a vast listening audience.”

Mitchell has been there from the beginning of bluegrass music, knows the pioneers that started it and is still in the middle of it, as he continues to emcee big events like the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Convention.

“Anybody and everybody in bluegrass knows Harold,” said longtime friend Mitchell Freeman, of Mount Airy, N.C., who is helping organize an appreciation day for Harold. “There’s not a person within 150 miles that doesn’t know who he is.” Freeman calls Mitchell his mentor.

In honor of his lifetime commitment to bluegrass music, Harold Mitchell Appreciation Day will be held Sunday, starting at 2 p.m., at Fairview Ruritan Club in Galax, featuring a day of music and stories. Bluegrass musicians appearing will be Big Country Bluegrass, Pathway, The Cana Ramblers, Sammy Shelor, Johnny and Jeanette Williams and more. The host emcee will be Sherry Bond. (Boyd)

Tickets are $10, with all proceeds going to Mitchell.

“The band didn’t want anything, and the Fairview Ruritan Club said Harold’s deserved this for a long time,” said Freeman, who has known Mitchell for 35 years. “This is something to do for him. He’s one of the most gracious, nicest DJs I’ve ever met.”

Freeman met Mitchell at Galax radio station 98.1 WBOB FM — now WBRF FM — and Mitchell would introduce Freeman’s bluegrass band Interstate Exchange at local and regional shows.

Mitchell, said Freeman, has gotten the names for several bluegrass bands out there through radio music play, booking shows and putting in a good word.

“He provides a lot of encouragement,” said Freeman. “He’s the type of fellow that you could call on him anytime and he’d be there for you. ‘When you want me to be there?’ he’d say.”

As an emcee, he makes people feel like they’re a part of the show. On the radio, his voice and personality are so distinct that listeners can enjoy for hours, Freeman described. That's what separates him from others.

“He can sell a bald-headed man a comb,” Freeman added. “He’s that smooth.”

He's so well-liked in the industry, Freeman explained, musicians send Mitchell a copy of their album before it even comes out.

At each show, Mitchell takes the stage wearing his suit, tie, a cowboy hat and cowboy boots. And that’s become his trademark over the years — since 1972.

When Mitchell traveled as emcee for Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt, Mitchell said, the bluegrass legends required neat dress. “You had to be first-class to work for them,” he noted.

Mitchell was the lead act. Freeman said they couldn’t start a show without him.

In fact, Freeman said, one night in 1976 at Franklin Elementary School in Mount Airy, N.C., Mitchell was scheduled to emcee the bluegrass show. At about 10 minutes before time to go on, Freeman explained, Mitchell went into a classroom to dress in his suit, tie and hat — and locked himself in.

He was stuck in the dressing room for about 30 minutes.

“We didn’t want to start the show without him,” said Freeman. “'Don’t worry. We’ll get you out,’” he remembers telling Mitchell.

Freeman used his pickup truck, propped a ladder against the building and told him to climb out the window.

“It was still about a 5- to 10-foot drop to the ladder,” said Mitchell. “I wasn’t going to do that.”

Freeman found the janitor and the show started about 20 minutes late. It was a close call, but Freeman was determined not to start the show without him.

“The show must go on,” Mitchell said, as he walked out of the classroom.

Mitchell is retired, but continues to emcee festivals, concerts and conventions. He is the longest running emcee for the Old Fiddlers' Convention, he noted.

The musicians, he said, have shaped his life and have put him where he is today.

“I loved running the show, working with the great stars,” he said. “I made a million friends along the way.”

Freeman said Mitchell teared up when he notified him of his special day.

“There are awards shows all over the nation, but I’d rather have this one here because this is by local people for a local man,” Mitchell said. “I’m surprised all of these people are going through all this for me.”

Art on the Plaza

2009-10-12T15:17:00.008-04:00

Jim and Jean Bass had the opening reception for their art exhibit yesterday, and what a location for their incredible work!

It just so happens that Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Congregational Church just across from the horse fountain at the Plaza (KCMO). And in this church, Wright situated an art gallery. Wright's architecture is the perfect setting for Jim's bronzes and Jean's fabrics. . . it was really beautiful and as soon as I get the photos downloaded, I'll share them with you. The exhibit will be on display for two months. Do make a point to stop by. Gary, Noel & I went over and were just wowed by the interesting architecture.

Above, Epiphany, one of Jean's pieces done for 1st Congregational Church in Topeka; Below, Jim's sculpture, Forgiven Man, which sets just outside the church. Visit bassstudiosart.com for more.

Cemtery Tours

2009-10-07T15:51:00.001-04:00

. . . .school kids tomorrow. Friday at noon, Saturday at noon, the public is welcome to join me. $10 each. . . . So many things going on. . . will post more soon!

Party in the Cemetery

2009-10-02T15:33:00.005-04:00

Topeka Cemetery is 150 years old. Yes, friends, one-hundred, fifty years old.

Birthday Party on Saturday, 10 - 3, Topeka Cemetery, 10th & California.

There will be a reception at Topeka Cemetery's offices and you can meet Franklin Crane, that interesting Pennsylvanian who founded this historic site. (Actually, Franklin Crane died some odd years ago, but we wouldn't let a little thing like death get in the way of a relationship. Our friend Don Lambert will take care of that.) I believe Mary Jane Ritchie will also attend, again, despite her untimely demise decades ago. (Anne Hawkins is responsible for bringing Mary Jane.)

I will be in Missouri Town for the pumpkin festival, so please represent me well. Not to be left totally out, however, I'm planning a couple of upcoming tours.

Friday, October 9, Noon
Saturday, October 10, Noon
Cost is $10 per person

Meet at the Cemetery Office, 10th & California. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. It can get breezy or warm, depending on the day.

Call me or email for more info: 785-783-1532 or deb.goodrich@yahoo.com

For info on tomorrow's events, call the cemetery at 233-4132. Tell 'em Deb sent you.

Photo from Shawnee County Historical Society

. .

On Virginia's Sacred Soil

2009-09-28T00:15:00.007-04:00

Folks, it pleasures me greatly to bring you yet another proud moment in Virginia history. . . .

On today's date in 1781, the siege of Yorktown was underway. The events unfolding would mark the end of the American Revolution and signal that the work of creating a country would go on. The scene above depicts the surrender of Britain's Lord Cornwallis to General George Washington of the Continental Army. This is a story we learn early in Virginia. . . . Lord Cornwallis--vain, arrogant, scoundrel that he was--claimed to be sick that day. He remained on ship, I believe, and sent an aide to surrender. Washington, proud (somewhat haughty man that he was, but he had reason to be proud!) in turn sent his aide to receive the sword of surrender, thinking it improper for a man of his rank to accept surrender from someone of lesser rank.

While at Fort Leavenworth a few months ago, there were some visiting officers from the French equivalent to the Command and General Staff College. After class, one of the Americans commented to the Frenchman seated beside him:

I know we're not supposed to make French jokes, but have you seen this?

Thus, he proceeded to type into the Google search engine, "French military victories."

Result: "None Found."
He laughed hysterically and I went up to the French officer, placed my hands on his shoulders and said, Direct your friend to the Victory monument at Yorktown (below). We really don't care if you've had a victory since. That's the one that counted.

In fact, the French outnumbered the Americans at Yorktown and without them we would never have gained our independence from England.

A toast, dear friends, to the heroes of our American Revolution and to the French people, to whom we still owe a debt of gratitude. A toast to Virginia. . . .where America began.

Photo of Yorktown monument by fisherbray on Flickr.

History and Friends

2009-09-26T10:37:00.005-04:00

Little Bighorn Associates in Indianapolis was the chance to catch up with old friends and make new ones.

Sandy and Betty Barnard, of AST Press, (with me, above) hosted this auspicious event and it's worth the drive from Topeka to Indianapolis just to visit with them! Father Vince Heier of the St. Louis Civil War Roundtable was the dinner speaker and I joined colleagues for talks during the daylong seminar. New friends include Kevin Connolly (left) from Chicago who presented a marvelous paper on Custer during the Civil War. Later on, he and his lovely wife, Liz, joined us in the hotel lounge for historical and musical discussions. The lounge was a hoot. The house band invited Gary to sit in on keyboards and they had a blast and so did the listeners.

How can you beat a weekend that includes a hot tub, Custer, friends and music?

Winfield

2009-09-22T10:48:00.016-04:00

Many years ago in a galaxy far, far away. . . .

Actually, it was in Fancy Gap, Virginia. My sister and I published a tabloid called A Comin' and A Goin.' We ran schedules of bluegrass/old-time music events and Appalachian cultural activities. One of those we published was from the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival at Winfield, Kansas.

I recall thinking, "What do people in Kansas know about bluegrass?"

Well, now I've been to Winfield and I can tell you, "Lots!"

I am embarrassed to admit that after all these years as a Kansan, this was my first trek to Winfield. A virgin, the oldtimers emphasized. (Well, it's been a long time since I heard that word but that's another book. . . .)

After a quick turn-around from the trip to the Little Bighorn Associates, we threw clean laundry in the suitcases and arrived about 11 p.m. last Wednesday night. We located our buds and proceeded to prowl. We snuggled into the tent around 3 a.m., and bright and early Thursday morning I awoke with a sinus migraine.

My good man (above right, jamming with his bandmate Preston Miller) loaded me in the van and we headed to Walmart for drugs. He jumped back in the van, I fairly crawled back inside--we were both eager to get back to the music. Click, click, click. The van wouldn't start.

A nice young man with a military background (Gary quickly figured this one out because he kept saying, "yessir!") took a look and said he thought it was the starter. So Gary got on the phone to call the motor club. They said they would call back when they found a tow in our area. I was dying.

We had about half unpacked and there was still a lounge chair stored behind my seat. Gary rearranged our stuff and opened up that chair so I could lie down comfortably, or as comfortably as is possible with a sinus migraine in a Walmart parking lot. So there we were, the back open, the hood up, a sick and incoherent woman in the back, and at least a couple of sorta mechanics checking out the vehicle. Did I add that there was a washboard in the back next to me that Gary is teaching me to play? Could this story get any sadder? Nice folks kept stopping and inquiring, "Do you folks need some help?"

Fortunately, Gary has lots of friends, two of whom came by to return me to camp while he took care of the vehicle. Just as we started off, I felt a wave of nausea and I climbed out and puked my guts out while crouching behind their vehicle in full view of about 10,000 people. Since we had only moved, say 20 feet, Gary was still there and he held me and kept me from just lying down and dying right there.

Sometime later. . . Gary came into the tent. Van's fixed. People are partying. Am I feeling better? I have to throw up, I told him, and as he escorted me toward the restrooms, a trashcan lured me away. Again, he was holding onto my middle to keep me from falling down and we were on the main road with people everywhere believing I am a lush. Again, that's another book. . . .

After hours more of nursing, cold washcloths, ice, and all the curious friends coming by to see Gary's pathetic girlfriend, I was finally able to walk and talk and be somewhat normal. It was 6 o'clock in the evening and Cafe Luigi (below, photo by Chris Frost) was open. We had reservations. The maitre'd, Luigi (aka John Lane), met us and escorted us to the red-checked tables with wine and candles. The spaghetti and meatballs were the best I have ever tasted, and this incredible Italian bistro was located in the heart of the "Bucket Camp" and hosted by folks from Nebraska. It was the most beautiful setting, with music provided by our fiddling friend Chris Frost (who lives down the street from me). Then his bandmates Stuart Yoho and Tom O'Brian joined him with gypsy tunes. (Their group is called the High Falutin String Band. . . . updates to follow!)

I was taken into the Win-fold.

PS--The band photo in the center is the Freestate Revival from the Kansas City area. They are awesome!!! More on them in the coming days.

Nerds of a Feather

2009-09-16T11:00:00.008-04:00

Gary considers himself a "nerd in training" now. This was his first "vacation" that included cemeteries.

On the return trip from Indianapolis, stopped to see our dear friends Dave and Teresa Chuber and went with Dave to Fort Leonard Wood yesterday morning. He was addressing a new class of soldiers and we joined them on their tour of the Chemical School Museum. Outstanding. In the top photo, Dave is explaining the trench warfare characteristic of WWI. The exhibit was really excellent.

Today, onto Winfield where we'll leave behind the nerds and progress to obsessive/compulsive musicians.

Details on the trip and the Little Bighorn Conference to follow._______________________________________
And now, from the Civil War World. . .

a word on my man Jeb from the good folks in Philly. . . . I would love to attend this conference!

Chambersburg Civil War Seminars - Oct. 8-11, 2009:
“Riding with J.E.B. Stuart”

Dear fan of history,

Come to Pennsylvania, just a few miles from Gettysburg, to enjoy a
weekend Civil War seminar in October with some of the top Civil War
historians in the nation.
“Riding with J.E.B. Stuart” will be offered by the Greater
Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce from Oct. 8-11 at the Four Points
Sheraton in Chambersburg. Tours and discussions will focus on the brave
and resourceful cavalry commander and feature authors and historians Ed
Bearss, Eric Wittenberg, Jeffry Wert and others.
James Ewell Brown “J.E.B.” Stuart – then a federal soldier -- was
among those who crushed John Brown’s raid of a federal arsenal in Harper’s
Ferry in 1859. Brown had planned the raid while staying in Chambersburg.
Three years later, Stuart led his Confederate troops in a raid of
Chambersburg in 1862 and masterfully eluded 100,000 Union troops during
their return to Virginia.
Some of the nation’s top Civil War historians will discuss that raid
and its impact. Historians Ted Alexander, Ed Bearss and John Thompson on
Oct. 9 will lead a bus tour, “Stuart’s Chambersburg Raid,” which will
follow the route that Stuart and his men took on the first wartime raid of
Chambersburg, an event that shook the Union all the way to the Oval Office.
“Stuart`s Chambersburg raid was an event of national significance,”
said Alexander, chief historian at Antietam National Battlefield and the
coordinator of the seminar. “The national publicity generated by Stuart’s
Chambersburg raid was an embarrassment to the Lincoln Administration. It
also was one of the final nails in the coffin of the military career of
Union General George B. McClellan. He let a Confederate raiding party slip
around his army, penetrating onto Pennsylvania soil, taking hostages,
livestock and inflicting tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage. A
few weeks after the raid, Lincoln relived McClellan of command,” Alexander
said.
The seminar, “Riding with J.E.B. Stuart,” also will include Stuart’s
work as a frontier soldier, his reputation as a cavalry commander and his
retreat from Gettysburg, which includes a bus tour on Oct. 10. The tour
will be followed by a period-style dinner.
The seminar concludes on Oct. 11 with a discussion of Stuart’s death
during the war, and a panel discussion about Stuart in the Gettysburg
campaign.
For more information about the seminar, contact Cindy Baker at (717)
264-7101 or see the Web site, http://www.chambersburgcivilwarseminars.org.
Costs vary depending on the sessions attended. Price includes motor coach
transportation for guided tours, seminar materials and some meals.
Click here to see J.E.B. Stuart brochure

Civil War seminar to honor historian Ed Bearss and Ted Alexander

Since 1989, the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce and historian
Ted Alexander have offered several Civil War seminars each year and
donated more than $125,000 for battlefield preservation.
To celebrate the milestone, the Chamber will honor Alexander and
historian Ed Bearss, considered the dean of Civil War experts in the U.S.,
as part of the kickoff of the Chamber’s October seminar focusing on J.E.B.
Stuart, the Confederate commander who raided Chambersburg in 1862.
A dessert reception will be held at Four Points Sheraton, 1123
Lincoln Way East, from 7 to 9 p.m. Oct. 8, and will include presentations
to Alexander and Bearss. John Thompson, author of a book about Stuart’s
raid of Chambersburg, will be the featured speaker. Cost is $25.
Chambersburg is about 25 miles west of Gettysburg and just a bit
farther from Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Md.

Rain

2009-09-09T08:52:00.006-04:00

Here in Topeka, the rain keeps a'fallin' . . . .

On the Cox Oldies Station, Elvis's "Kentucky Rain" was just playing. I love that song. It is my all-time favorite by the King, written by Eddie Rabbit, also one of my favorites. It is filled with love and longing and loneliness and hope and determination. . . .

The song suits this day well.

************************************
Headed to Indianapolis. . . .

First stop, Hannibal, MO. . . .

I love Hannibal. It lives up to the imagination of Mark Twain. We'll be staying downtown on the river within walking distance of all the sites. . . provided, of course, we get out of Topeka today.

Then on to Springfield, IL, and we'll do the Lincoln stuff. . . maybe a stop in New Salem. . . or, maybe we'll just lay on the riverbank. . .

Old Man River, just keeps on rolling. . . .

Winter Coats

2009-08-31T10:23:00.004-04:00

Here in Topeka it has begun to feel like fall. I've been looking through my winter coats and jackets, and, in fact, retrieved a jacket from the garage to wear Saturday night.

Yes, since the recent move, all my winter clothes and a even some for other seasons hangs on a pole in the garage. The move out of the old house and the cleanup was finished at 9 p.m. Sunday a week ago. What an ordeal. I wouldn't wish that much work on anyone. I hope to stay put for a while--at least long enough to organize what I moved and to find out what's in the boxes! The garbage--stuff that used to be my treasures--wasn't picked up until Thursday and that was a tractor-trailer load nearly.

Hopefully, I have learned a valuable lesson, if not several. I am reminded of several Bible verses dealing with riches. . . .

Gary and I went to Kansas City yesterday for the 100th birthday celebration of a dear man and good friend, Loren Lundy. I am so privileged to know him and it was wonderful to see him. Living to be 100 is fate; living to be 100 and beloved by so many good people is evidence of a life well-lived. Jim and Cindi Speicher were there as well and great to visit. Jim has a new book coming out and I'll interview him soon on the military show.

It's good to be back. I've missed y'all.

Little Bighorn

2009-06-25T23:54:00.006-04:00

Today is the anniversary of Custer's Last Fight--June 25, 1876. (I think D.K. Clark is at the battleground as I write. I am so envious.) I was so involved in my hectic life, I nearly forgot. This is the perfect time to remind you to read A Road We Do Not Know, by my friend, Fred Chiaventone. If my books weren't packed up from the move, I would read it now.

Fred was also a "talking head" on Bloody Dawn which aired on PBS last night. Based on Tom's book by that name, this excellent movie was producedKen Spurgeon and Lone Chimney Films. Joe Houts, another expert featured in the film, called me today from St. Joseph, Missouri. He said he had received lots of calls from folks who had seen it and been impressed. The DVD can be ordered at www.lonechimneyfilms.org. Oh, and the narrator is Buck Taylor. 'Nuff said!

Cousin Dixie Lee Jackson

2009-06-23T09:05:00.005-04:00

"Don't make me use my rolling pin!"

Cousin Dixie Lee Jackson is performing at the Topeka Performing Arts Center on Friday night at 7:30. Tickets are only $15 each and this is a fundraiser for Let's Help and the Topeka Rescue Mission. Y'all Come! And click on the link to Dixie Lee's blog.

So much going on these days it's hard to keep up! The biggy--don't miss Territorial Days at Lecompton, Kansas, this weekend. This is such a well-done event and a chance to explore historic Lecompton.

Also, tomorrow night, June 24, the documentary Bloody Dawn by our good friend, Ken Spurgeon, airs on PBS. Be sure and catch it! Also, I've lost weight since then!

On the air at www.RadioRichandFriends.com in just a few minutes.

Photo of Dixie Lee Jackson by Doug Ruth/TopekaTonight.com

Omissions

2009-05-27T08:58:00.004-04:00

Pilfering through old diaries stored in the recesses of old libraries, I am often confounded and a little peeved that the big events are omitted. The reason, of course, is obvious. The soldiers were just too busy to write while the important things were happening.

That's been my life lately. Between moving, and moving, and moving and somehow trying to eke out a living with my various projects. (By the way, tickets are on sale at tpactix.com for my one woman show as Dixie Lee Jackson on June 26.)

Okay, at this time of the morning, while I'm on the phone, checking emails, making the beds--my greatest pleasure is watching Cheyenne and Maverick. On today's episode of Maverick, Bart encounters a witch in the Smoky Mountains. Talk about hillbilly stereotypes! Big unkempt hair, corncob pipes, slouch-brimmed hats, white liquor -- and the pronunciation and grammar! Hollywood has always taken liberties with Southern accents and eccentricities and rarely gotten them right. I want to recommend a book, as soon as I find it in my packing, that discusses the variety of Southern accents and how even folks in the same household may not be consistent. This was certainly true in our home. . . ah well, I'm headed to Hollywood to consult and remedy the situation.

I'll be seized by cats if I ain't scandalized by the portrayal!

(The photo is from hillbillyphoto.com....VISIT this site! It has some of the most beautiful images I've ever seen and makes me homesick!)