It seems that teachers of history ignore one very important facet of history. Music of the era. Dates, treaties, battles and philosophies are a very important part of our heritage. Major historical figures serve as examples of American patriotism. We find inspiration in their words and actions. In a way they are our national heroes. But there were many common heroes out there too. Cowboys, pioneers, settlers, miners, explorers, and every day folk helped to create this great nation. Their stories and history are told in song.

Nothing comes close to an eras songs for teaching us what life was like in the past. Through music we learn of peoples goals, passions, concerns, thoughts, and most importantly, their humor. How can a person listen to the song “Clementine” and not smile at the tragic dying scene? “Ruby lips above the water, blowing bubbles soft and fine”. Clementine is a song that has endured for 150 years. It still teaches us and entertains us. Songs like “The Gal I Left Behind Me” and “Cowboys Prayer” had melodies that were developed long before the folks in the old west adapted them to fit their situations. In many cases a melody can be traced back hundreds of years and through many variations. Songs are history.

Much of the history of the old west can be taught in song.  From the songs of the gold camps, the civil war, the pioneers and cowboys, people learn how music was a common thread in the old west.  The music is presented in a traditional manner, played on acoustic guitar, banjo and mandolin.  In all cases the oldest known lyrics to the songs are used to maintain the accuracy of the music.  Traditional music from the 1800's is covered in detail along with fascinating tidbits of history about the old west.

Along with Mark Bridge, The Lone Hand,  you will meet figures from history. Pioneers, settlers, miners, outlaws, ranchers and cowboys. Every song and interesting piece of history is a small but important lesson about the old west and our heritage.

The history of westward expansion is presented in a conversational manner and meant to be interactive.  Emphasis is placed on everyday life in the old west.  Who were the settlers and cowboys? How did they get to where they were going?  What was it like to live in the 1800s?  Why did people move west?  What about the Native Americans?

Comments from past shows.

“Very interesting.”