1836 Podcast

In this episode we share the story of The Cherokee Bad Man, Henry Starr. Born into a family of notorious outlaws, Henry was an author, an actor, and most notably, an outlaw bank robber, claiming to have robbed more banks than anyone in America. His journey took him from the gallows of the hanging judge, Isaac Parker,  to the silver screen. All which came to an end in Harrison, Arkansas. Discover t...

In this episode, we explore the violence and tragedies along Bull Creek, a waterway flowing through Christian and Taney Counties in Missouri. Involving families from both Arkansas and Missouri, what started as small disputes spiraled into deadly conflicts that left a lasting mark on this rural community. Sources: Newspapers.com Blood Feud on Bull Creek by Randy Pace ozarks-history.blogspot.com mis...

Join us as we share the story of the Fleagle Gang, a notorious group of bank robbers and murderers that wreaked havoc over several states, amassing a fortune worth millions. Their criminal legacy is etched into law enforcement history through a single fingerprint that led to their leader’s identification. Learn how their plan to rob the Bank of Yellville led to their final stand in the Ozarks. Sou...

Join us in honoring Charles Leon Gilliland, a young Arkansas soldier posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, the military's highest recognition, for his remarkable bravery during the Korean War. At just 17, Gilliland demonstrated extraordinary courage and made the ultimate sacrifice to save many American soldiers. He remains the youngest soldier from the Korean War to receive this prestigious med...

In this episode, we dig into the eerie history and spine-chilling stories behind the top ten most haunted places in Arkansas. From haunted halls to haunted hills, we explore where Arkansas's most famous ghosts are said to roam. Whether it’s encounters with apparitions, unexplained noises, or chilling tales of long-forgotten tragedies, each location has its own haunting tale that keeps locals and v...

In this episode, we hear from Ms. Quintell Cole, born October 24, 1925, in Oklahoma. Her life journey spans nearly a century, including her experiences during the Great Depression and World War II. After traveling the country while her husband served in the Navy, they quickly settled in the Ozarks, where she became a beloved teacher, housewife, and community member. Join us as she shares her remar...

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the “Godmother of Rock and Roll.” Born in Cotton Plant, Arkansas, Tharpe’s gospel roots and groundbreaking fusion of gospel, jazz, and blues reshaped music history. From her early performances as a child prodigy to her rise to fame in the 1940s, Tharpe broke many barriers with her electrifying guitar skills and pioneering so...

In this episode, we dig into the chilling crimes of serial killer Mark Alan Smith, whose brutal acts of violence began in Mountain Home, Arkansas, and spanned multiple states and countries. Join us as we uncover the disturbing details of his murders and the lasting impact of his crimes. #ozarks #arkansas #history #podcast #truecrime

In this episode, we uncover the captivating story of the "Eureka Baby," a fossilized human child discovered in 1880 by a well driller in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Initially celebrated as a groundbreaking scientific find, this discovery captivated audiences nationwide. However, nearly 70 years later, the tale took a dramatic turn. Join us as we explore the origins, the excitement, and the ultimate...

In this episode, we share one of the strangest cases in Ozarks history – the mysterious murder (or was it?) of Connie Franklin. In 1929, a drifter named Connie Franklin arrived in Stone County, Arkansas, only to seemingly meet a violent end. But when a man claiming to be Connie reappeared, the case took a bizarre twist. Was Connie really murdered, or was the whole story a case of mistaken identity...

In this episode, we share the tragic story of Arkansas State Trooper Algin Sidney Pavatt, the first Arkansas State Trooper to be killed in the line of duty. On a routine check of a cabin in Marion County, Pavatt unknowingly walked into a deadly situation that would cost him his life. We explore the events leading up to his murder, the aftermath, and whether the actions of his killer, a World War I...

In this episode, we dig into the remarkable life of Quatawapea, also known as Colonel John Lewis, a Shawnee leader born around 1760 in Ohio. From his involvement in the Revolutionary and Northwest Indian Wars to leading his people to Shawnee Town in what is now Yellville, Arkansas, Quatawapea sought to create an autonomous Indian Nation while resisting American expansion and preserving Shawnee cul...

In this episode, we talk about the real life connections between The Beverly Hillbillies and the Ozarks. From the Missouri roots of the shows creator to cast members' ties to Arkansas, learn how the show's humor, values, and characters were shaped by the region's culture and landscapes. As one of TV's most-watched programs, The Beverly Hillbillies was the first show to surpass 50 m...

In this episode, we dig into the rollercoaster history of Dogpatch USA, a unique theme park inspired by the "Li'l Abner" comic strip that charmed visitors in the Ozark Mountains from 1968 to 1993. Join us as we explore the park's origins, from its start as a simple trout farm to its transformation into a beloved destination packed with quirky attractions and unforgettable charact...

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary journey of Lum and Abner, two iconic characters who left a lasting mark on American radio comedy for nearly 25 years. Discover how two young men from Arkansas, Chet Lauck and Norris Goff, captured the hearts of thousands of listeners across the entire nation with their genuine portrayal of rural life and relatable humor. Their success not only earned t...

In Episode 32, we explore the life of Clifton Clowers, a World War I veteran whose humble beginnings in the Ozark Hills of North Central Arkansas led to unexpected fame through the hit song 'Wolverton Mountain.' This song transformed Clifton into a folk legend, cementing his place in Arkansas’s cultural history and American music folklore.   #Ozarks #Arkansas #History #Podcast

What if I told you one of the most popular toys in the entire world was created and built in North Arkansas? Explore the story of William “Bill” Baltz, the Arkansas engineer who created the Wonder Horse in 1939. From a simple idea using old cypress joists to a national sensation, learn how this ride-on toy captured hearts across America. Join us for a quick dive into the history of this iconic toy...

From Arkansas to Hollywood: The Legacy and Impact of Cinematic Innovator Freeman Harrison Owens Explore the extraordinary life of Freeman Harrison Owens, a pioneering cinematographer born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas on July 20, 1890. From humble beginnings, Owens’s passion for film technology led him to create his own 35mm movie camera by age 16. His career took off with Essanay Studio and notable col...

Warning : This episode may be emotional for some viewers and listeners. Join us as we talk about the history of some of the most significant and devastating tornadoes in Arkansas. We'll discuss events from the earliest documented tornado to more recent ones that have impacted our families, friends, neighbors, and loved ones. Additionally, we'll talk about the impact and aftermath of the EF...

On Episode 28, we welcome Mrs. Patsy Ann Burdine Jones. Patsy was born on June 12th, 1936, in Red Rock, Newton County, Arkansas. She attended grade school at Log Hall and high school at Mount Judea, graduating in 1954. Out of the 48 students who started, only 13 made it to graduation. Join us as Patsy shares her memories of growing up in the Ozarks during World War II. She talks about her daily ch...

The Buffalo River, located in North Central Arkansas, is America’s first National River. On this episode, we briefly discuss the river’s length, depth, Native Americans, pioneers, ferries, bridges, wildlife, floods, the beloved “Granny Henderson” and more! #arkansas #history #ozarks #podcast

S.C. Turnbo was born in 1844. He roamed through the Ozarks, talking with pioneers and documenting their stories in a collection of manuscripts. One of these stories, titled "Opposed to Civil War" by Turnbo, recounts the experiences of two Confederate soldiers who were forced into joining but refused to fight in battle. #arkansas #missouri #ozarks

Join us on Episode 25 as we explore the legend of Bigfoot in Arkansas and the Ozarks. This episode delves into the history of sightings, from Native American legends to modern encounters, including well-known tales like Arkansas' Fouke Monster (also known as the Boggy Creek Monster), Missouri's "MoMo," and Oklahoma's Boggy Bottom Monster and Greenhill Monster. Whether you&#39...

In episode 24 of the 1836 Podcast, we talk about the enigmatic legend of a creature said to haunt the Ozark Mountains. Known for its eerie howl and described as a large, black, bear-like beast with glowing red eyes and prominent horns, the Ozark Howler has sparked tales and sightings for generations. The episode explores the origins of the legend, possible explanations for the creature, and a comp...

On episode 23, we delve into one of Arkansas's most enduring legends—the White River Monster. As we follow the trail of the White River Monster, we unravel stories that go back decades, offering a captivating look at the folklore and the people who keep the legend alive. Join us as we navigate the murky waters between fact and fiction, and discover what might be lurking in the depths of Arkans...