Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott AZ
The Arizona Round-Up podcast, hosted by Stuart Rosebrook, Executive Director of the Sharlot Hall Museum, is your go-to half-hour for an engaging exploration of life in Arizona. With a deep love for Arizona's fascinating history, culture, and people, Stuart brings on an eclectic mix of guests, ranging from Prescott locals like business owners and native residents to museum employees and State historians. Recorded live on the charming Sharlot Hall Museum campus, this podcast offers a personal, down-to-earth experience filled with humor and lively conversations. Whether you're an Arizona resident, a history buff, or simply curious about the state's unique charm, the Arizona Round-Up podcast is a delightful and enriching listen! t.
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From Ocean Breezes to High Desert Flavors:
Mercy Clark’s Culinary Journey to Prescott
04/20/2026
From Ocean Breezes to High Desert Flavors:
Mercy Clark’s Culinary Journey to Prescott
On a recent episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomed listeners to a conversation that was as flavorful as it was inspiring—an engaging look at entrepreneurship, creativity, and community through the story of Mercy Clark, founder of Gingerly Catered. Broadcast from the historic grounds of the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, the program offered more than just an interview. It served as a celebration of local talent, culinary craftsmanship, and the vibrant cultural life that continues to grow in Prescott. A Journey Rooted in Adventure and Reinvention Mercy Clark’s path to becoming a successful caterer in Prescott is anything but ordinary. Born in Athens, Georgia, raised along the Atlantic coast in Stuart, Florida, and briefly exploring life in California, Clark’s journey reflects a spirit of adventure and openness to opportunity. What was meant to be a temporary stop in Prescott in 2014 became something much more lasting. Drawn by friendships and the beauty of Arizona’s high desert, Clark found not only a home—but a calling. From Experience to Enterprise Founded in September 2023, Gingerly Catered has quickly become a valued part of Prescott’s event scene, offering customized menus, thoughtful presentation, and a clear passion for the craft. Clark’s approach blends creativity and discipline—listening to clients, studying local tastes, and constantly refining her offerings. Cooking with Creativity… and Community in Mind Clark’s culinary style reflects her diverse background, drawing from Southern cooking, coastal cuisine, and global flavors while staying grounded in Prescott’s community preferences. Her philosophy is simple: pay attention, adapt, and serve well. A Perfect Partnership with the Sharlot Hall Museum Clark has become a valued partner of the Sharlot Hall Museum, catering events like Twilight Tales and participating in signature experiences such as Charlotte Cellar. These events blend storytelling, history, and culinary excellence—creating memorable community experiences. The Art of Pairing—and the Joy of the Unexpected With a background in wine studies, Clark brings an elevated approach to pairing food with wine, beer, and cocktails, crafting experiences that feel both intentional and effortless. Looking Ahead: Growth, Gratitude, and Celebration As Gingerly Catered approaches its third anniversary, Clark continues to grow her business while planning a celebration to thank the community that has supported her journey. Things to Remember • Great businesses often begin with small opportunities taken seriously • Creativity thrives when paired with discipline • Community partnerships elevate everyone involved • Success is built over time with consistency and care Things to Share • Prescott’s local entrepreneurs are shaping a vibrant cultural scene • The Sharlot Hall Museum remains a hub of community life • Culinary arts bring people together in meaningful ways Things to Take Note Of (and Act Upon) • Plan ahead—top caterers book months in advance • Attend events like Twilight Tales and Charlotte Cellar • Support local businesses • Consider becoming a museum member An Invitation to Experience More To fully appreciate Mercy Clark’s journey, listeners are encouraged to tune in to the full Arizona Roundup program and experience the vibrant community of the Sharlot Hall Museum. Visit, engage, and become part of the story.
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Through the Lens of the Mother Road Terry Moore’s Journey Across Time, Light, and Route 66
04/12/2026
Through the Lens of the Mother Road Terry Moore’s Journey Across Time, Light, and Route 66
Stuart Rosebrook • Sharlot Hall Museum • Prescott, Arizona The Story There are some stories that feel less like interviews and more like road trips—full of unexpected turns, wide horizons, and moments that stay with you long after the journey ends. This episode of Arizona Roundup featuring Terry Moore is exactly that kind of journey—rich with memory, meaning, and the unmistakable spirit of the American West. A Life Shaped by Light From Duluth, Minnesota to the deserts of the Southwest, Terry Moore’s life was transformed by a move west at age nine. The light changed. The land opened. And something inside him awakened. That awakening would later define his artistic eye and his lifelong fascination with the American landscape. From California to Calling Growing up in Southern California, Moore experienced beach culture, travel, and early photography—but ultimately rejected the superficial pull of that world. Instead, he chose the unknown—heading to New Mexico with little more than a car, a dog, and a sense that something meaningful was waiting. The Turning Point A single photograph of pollution in the Four Corners region changed everything. That moment launched Moore into environmental advocacy and professional photography—proving that art can inform, challenge, and even change the world. Saving Route 66 in Real Time As Interstate highways replaced Route 66, Moore instinctively documented what others overlooked—cafés, motels, roadside stands, and small-town life. His images now serve as a powerful archive of a disappearing America. A Full Circle in Prescott Today, more than five decades later, Terry Moore’s work is featured at the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona. The exhibit represents not just photographs—but a life, a legacy, and a love for the road that still calls to all of us. Things to Remember • The road shapes us as much as we travel it • Light can change a life • Art carries responsibility • Today’s moments become tomorrow’s history Things to Share • The story of Route 66 as living history • The importance of preserving culture • The power of one voice and one vision Things to Take Action On • Take the back roads • Visit Sharlot Hall Museum • Support storytellers and historians • Document what matters before it disappears Final Thought The road is not just behind us—it’s still ahead. Stay connected with Arizona Roundup. Take the long way. The light is waiting.
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From Coonskin Caps to Hollywood Epics:
The Remarkable Journey of Ray Herbeck Jr.
04/05/2026
From Coonskin Caps to Hollywood Epics:
The Remarkable Journey of Ray Herbeck Jr.
In this engaging episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes storyteller, historian, filmmaker, and reenactor Ray Herbeck Jr. for a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like sitting around a campfire—swapping stories that somehow connect childhood curiosity to cinematic history. A Childhood Spark That Lit a Lifetime The story begins not in Hollywood—but in a war surplus store in Los Angeles, and a young boy inspired by Fess Parker and a coonskin cap. But the real turning point came during a childhood trip to Arkansas. At the historic Pea Ridge Battlefield, young Ray encountered living history in the most unforgettable way—through a woman who had actually been there as an infant during the Civil War. Her story, combined with a gifted musket ball, ignited something lasting. Route 66, Guitars, and the Road to Storytelling After high school, Ray set out across the country—Jeep packed, guitar in hand—traveling along Route 66 and visiting Civil War battlefields from Gettysburg to Shiloh. From Journalism to the Movie Business Ray’s path took a practical turn into journalism—eventually landing him at Billboard Magazine, where he interviewed major figures and learned the craft of storytelling. But one conversation changed everything—and launched him into Hollywood. North and South and Beyond Ray became part of the landmark miniseries North and South, helping bring historical authenticity through reenactors and deep historical knowledge. Glory and Legacy His work on the film Glory helped shape one of the most powerful Civil War films ever produced, including the recruitment of historically accurate reenactors. From Film to Fiction Ray continues his storytelling journey through historical novels, including his latest work, Ironclad Crinolines. Back Home in Prescott Today, Ray and his wife Ruth bring history to life through reenactments and community involvement at Sharlot Hall Museum. Things to Remember • One small moment can ignite a lifelong passion • Curiosity leads to calling • Opportunity favors the prepared Things to Share • Share this story with someone who loves history • Encourage others to explore their own story Things to Take Action On • Visit a museum • Record a story • Write your own history Challenge Find your “musket ball moment.” What moment shaped your life? Final Word History isn’t just behind us—it’s alive in the stories we choose to tell.
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Get Your Kicks… and Your Story: Arizona Roundup Celebrates Route 66 at 100
04/02/2026
Get Your Kicks… and Your Story: Arizona Roundup Celebrates Route 66 at 100
here are roads… and then there are legends. On this special edition of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes performer, storyteller, and Route 66 ambassador Nicole Brandon for a lively, heartfelt journey down America’s most famous highway—the Mother Road. This is more than a program. It’s an invitation. A Road That Still Lives and Breathes Route 66 is not just a highway—it’s a living story. From its official birth in 1926 under the U.S. Highway Act to its rise in literature, music, film, and family memory, Route 66 has become a symbol of movement, hope, and discovery. As Rosebrook reminds listeners, this isn’t ancient history—it’s living history, experienced by multiple generations. From Atlantic City to the Mother Road Nicole Brandon’s story adds a powerful human dimension to the journey. A world-class performer since childhood, Nicole brings a rare combination of talent, curiosity, and heartfelt storytelling to the stage. Her show, “Route 66 to the Grand Canyon,” is interactive storytelling where the audience becomes part of the experience. Where History Meets Imagination The program captures Route 66 through history, culture, personal experience, and performance. A Show on the Move The production is currently performing in Arizona and will travel along Route 66, bringing the story back to the people and places that made it famous. Why This Program Matters Now Route 66 turns 100 while America approaches its 250th anniversary. In a fast-paced world, Route 66 reminds us that the journey, the people, and the stories matter. Things to Remember - Route 66 connects generations - It lives through culture and memory - The centennial is a rare opportunity Things to Share - Share stories of the road - Invite others to explore its meaning - Encourage live experiences Things to Take Note of and Act On - Attend Route 66 events - Travel the road - Capture your own story A Final Word The road is still there. The stories are still waiting. Get moving. Get curious. Get connected. Your story is waiting on the road.
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Through the Lens of Legacy: Alison Goldwater and the Living Story of Arizona
03/23/2026
Through the Lens of Legacy: Alison Goldwater and the Living Story of Arizona
In a warm and engaging episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes a very special guest to the historic setting of the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona—Alison Goldwater. What unfolds is more than an interview. It is a journey into Arizona’s past, a rediscovery of a legendary figure, and a heartfelt mission to preserve a visual heritage for generations to come. A Family Story That Built a State The conversation begins with a delightful step back in time—into the early days of Arizona commerce and community building. The Goldwater name, long associated with Arizona, wasn’t just political—it was foundational. From mercantile roots and wagon deliveries across rugged terrain to becoming one of the most respected retail names in the Southwest, the Goldwater family helped shape the very fabric of the region. There’s even a bit of humor tucked into the history: tales of tough, determined merchants delivering goods by wagon—and making sure no one tampered with them along the way. It’s a reminder that the Old West wasn’t just about miners—it was built by merchants, families, and communities working together. Beyond Politics: The Renaissance Man Of course, the name Barry Goldwater looms large. But as Alison shares, the public figure only scratches the surface. Her grandfather was: - A pioneering photographer - A pilot who flew dangerous wartime routes - A lover of the land and its people - A communicator who connected families during wartime - And above all, a deeply curious and creative human being Listeners are invited to rediscover Goldwater not as a political icon, but as a Renaissance man—someone whose life blended art, service, adventure, and leadership. The Hidden Treasure: 17,000 Images of Arizona What makes this episode truly compelling is Alison’s mission. After discovering the vast archive of her grandfather’s photographic work—thousands of negatives dating back to the 1930s—she realized something urgent: these images were at risk of being lost. So she took action. She launched a foundation dedicated to: - Digitizing over 13,000–17,000 photographs - Restoring aging film and color images - Preserving Arizona’s visual history - Bringing these works back into public view In a story that feels almost cinematic, Alison even transported reels of fragile film across the country to begin the painstaking process of restoration. Arizona Through His Eyes Barry Goldwater’s photography is more than art—it’s storytelling. Through his lens, we see: - Navajo and Hopi communities with dignity and depth - Vast desert landscapes before modern development - Aerial views captured from his own flights - Intimate portraits of people, places, and moments These images reflect a man who didn’t just live in Arizona—he knew it, traveled it, and loved it. And perhaps most importantly, he served its people—sometimes quietly, even personally helping individuals in need without recognition. A Living Legacy: Art, Community, and Giving Back Alison’s work comes to life in a special event: the Barry M. Goldwater Photography Inaugural Preview and Sale, held at the historic Cattle Track Arts & Preservation in Scottsdale, Arizona. For the first time ever: - The public can purchase Goldwater’s photography - Proceeds support preservation efforts - The next generation of artists is supported This isn’t just an art show—it’s a bridge between past and future. The Heart of the Story What makes this episode unforgettable is its spirit. It’s about: - Family legacy - Rediscovery - Stewardship of history - And the simple but powerful act of caring enough to preserve what matters As Stuart and Alison reflect, Arizona has always attracted remarkable people—and those people, in turn, shape the story of the place. Things to Remember - History isn’t just written—it’s captured, often through unexpected mediums like photography. - Great leaders are often multidimensional; Barry Goldwater’s artistic life reveals a deeper legacy. - Preservation is a responsibility—what we save today becomes the inheritance of tomorrow. Things to Share - The story of the Goldwater family as builders of early Arizona - The lesser-known artistic side of Barry Goldwater - Alison Goldwater’s mission to digitize and protect historical images - The idea that every family—and every community—has stories worth preserving Take Note & Take Action - Reflect on your own family history—what stories or images need preserving? - Support museums, archives, and foundations that protect cultural heritage - Attend events like this exhibit—or explore them online—to stay connected to history - Consider how your own life’s work might leave a legacy for others A Closing Word There is something deeply encouraging about this conversation. It reminds us that history is not static—it lives through people who care enough to carry it forward. With gratitude, we celebrate voices like Alison Goldwater’s, programs like Arizona Roundup, and institutions like the Sharlot Hall Museum that keep these stories alive. And as always— keep listening, keep learning, and if you find yourself in Prescott… stop in, say hello, and become part of the story.
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Where Roads, Red Rocks, and Real History Meet...Arizona Roundup Visits the Sedona Heritage Museum with Nate Myers
03/14/2026
Where Roads, Red Rocks, and Real History Meet...Arizona Roundup Visits the Sedona Heritage Museum with Nate Myers
Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook continues its exploration of the people, places, and stories that shape the heritage of Arizona. in this engaging episode, Rosebrook welcomes Nate Myers, Executive Director of the Sedona Heritage Museum, for a lively and thoughtful conversation about Sedona’s past, the importance of preserving community history, and the fascinating stories behind one of Arizona’smost beloved destinations. From Upstate New York Snow to Arizona Sunshine Nate Myers’ personal story adds a warm and relatable dimension to the conversation. Born in Syracuse and raised partly in upstate New York after earlier family years in Arizona, Myers eventually found his way back to the Southwest. After studying history and trumpet performance in college, he initially tried teaching but soon realized that the classroom was not where he was meant to stay. Instead, a chance opportunity at the Chandler Museum opened a door he hadn’t expected. Within a week of starting the job, he knewhe had discovered his calling. Museums, he realized, offered a unique way to connect people with the past while building stronger communities in the present. Why Museums Matter Myers credits mentors like respected public historian Dr. Noel Stowe and longtime Chandler Museum director Jody Crago for helping shape his approach to museum leadership. Their influence reinforced a key idea: museums should not simply store artifacts—they should actively involve the community and help people understand the stories that shaped their region. In an era when life moves quickly and information comes in fragments, institutions like local museums provide something rare: perspective and continuity. How the Road Put Sedona on the Map One of the most fascinating segments of the program focuses on transportation history. Myers explains how Route 66 and the development of Highway 89A helped transform Sedona from an isolated canyon community into an internationally known destination. When Route 66 was completed in 1926, it dramatically increased travel across northern Arizona. That surge in motorists made it clear that Sedona needed better access. Improvements through Oak Creek Canyon and the completion of Midgley Bridge in 1939 opened the area to tourism and new economic growth. The lesson is timeless: access changes destiny. From Western Movies to Global Destination Sedona’s striking landscape soon attracted filmmakers. Its red rock formations and canyon scenery became a natural backdrop for Western films during the golden age of Hollywood. One particularly memorable example is the John Wayne classic Angel and the Badman. Republic Studios constructed an entire Western movie set in Sedona for the film. While most of that set eventually disappeared, the Sedona Heritage Museum preserves the only surviving building from that production—the telegraph office featured in the movie. Visitors today can still see that piece of cinematic history. A Museum That Welcomes Visitors The Sedona Heritage Museum continues to bring the region’s story to life with exhibits, speaker series, demonstrations, and community programs. A major upcoming exhibit titled “The Road is Life” explores Sedona’s relationship with Route 66 and the history of road travel in northern Arizona. Located on the historic Jordan property, once part of a working orchard, the museum offers visitors a personal and intimate connection to Sedona’s heritage. Things to Remember Sedona’s rise as a world‑famous destination was shaped not only by its natural beauty but by infrastructure, storytelling, and community leadership. Careers often emerge from unexpected opportunities. Nate Myers’ journey into museum work is a reminder that curiosity can lead to meaningful work. Museums play a vital role in preserving identity and strengthening communities. Things to Share Share this Arizona Roundup episode with history lovers, travelers, and anyone who appreciates the deeper story behind beloved places. Share the idea that preserving community history helps future generations understand where they came from and where they are going. Things to Take Notice Of and Act Upon Plan a visit to the Sedona Heritage Museum to explore its exhibits, events, and programs. Support local museums and historical organizations that work to preserve community memory. Consider how the story of access and connection—roads to Sedona—applies to your own life and work. Closing Thought Sedona may be famous for its red rocks and breathtaking scenery, but this Arizona Roundup conversation reminds us that behind every beautiful landscape lies a deeper human story. Roads were built, communities were formed, and people worked carefully to preserve the history that defines the region today. Thanks to leaders like Nate Myers and institutions like the Sedona Heritage Museum, that story continues to inspire new generations of visitors and residents alike.
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The Call of the West: Russell True and the Living Legacy of the Dude Ranch...An Arizona Roundup Feature from the Sharlot Hall Museum
03/09/2026
The Call of the West: Russell True and the Living Legacy of the Dude Ranch...An Arizona Roundup Feature from the Sharlot Hall Museum
In the wide-open spaces of the American West, some traditions refuse to fade into history. They live on through the people who love them, preserve them, and invite the rest of us to experience them. One of those people is Russell True—longtime rancher, author, historian, and steward of the Western guest-ranch tradition. In a recent episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomed True to share stories from more than six decades of life in the saddle and in the hospitality business. The conversation, recorded in partnership with the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, is more than an interview—it is a celebration of a Western tradition that continues to inspire travelers from around the world. FROM SNOWSTORMS TO THE SONORAN DESERT The story of White Stallion Ranch begins with a blizzard. In 1965, Russell True’s parents were living in Denver when a late spring snowstorm finally convinced his father that enough was enough. He boarded a plane to Arizona looking for sunshine—and perhaps a new life. What he found was a rundown guest ranch outside Tucson. It was hardly a sure thing. Russell recalls that when his mother first saw the property, she famously declared it “the worst idea you’ve ever had.” But then she looked south at the rugged peaks of the Sonoran Desert and made a simple request: “If I can wake up every morning and see those mountains, we’ll give it a try.” Sixty years later, those same mountains still frame the ranch—and the True family’s life story. A CENTURY OF DUDE RANCHING The conversation also arrives at a remarkable moment in Western history. The Dude Ranchers Association is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Founded in 1926—during the golden age of rail travel—the association helped promote guest ranch vacations across the West. Railroads discovered that city dwellers were eager to leave crowded streets behind and experience the wide-open landscapes of Arizona, Wyoming, Montana, and New Mexico. Dude ranches became the original Western destination vacation. At one time, Arizona alone boasted more than 300 dude ranches, with Tucson serving as one of the greatest concentrations anywhere in the West. Today, far fewer remain—but those that do carry forward a living tradition. A RANCH THAT CHANGES LIVES For many guests, a visit to a dude ranch is not just a vacation—it becomes part of their life story. Russell True shared a powerful example. Recently, the ranch family gathered to spread the ashes of a longtime guest at the base of Panther Peak. The man had first visited as a child and had spent 67 of his 80 years returning to the ranch. Stories like that are common in the guest-ranch world. Families return year after year, generation after generation, drawn by the same simple pleasures: • Riding horses through desert trails • Watching the sunrise over cactus-covered hills • Sharing meals and laughter with new friends • Living—if only for a few days—the rhythm of the West As True puts it, dude ranchers believe something deeply: people need this experience now more than ever. KEEPING THE WESTERN TRADITION ALIVE Over the years, Russell True and his partners have expanded their stewardship of historic ranch properties through the True Ranch Collection. Their work includes restoring and operating several unique Western destinations, including Rancho de la Osa, whose adobe buildings date back to the early 1700s. That ranch alone holds remarkable history: • Spanish mission outposts from the early colonial period • Visits by U.S. presidents including Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon Johnson • Connections to Western legends like John Wayne and Zane Grey • Even stories linked to Pancho Villa and the Mexican Revolution In the West, history is never far from the saddle. HONORING A TRUE WESTERNER Russell True’s lifelong work preserving ranching heritage has not gone unnoticed. This year he will receive the True Westerner Award from True West Magazine, honoring individuals who help keep the spirit of the West alive. It is a fitting recognition for someone who has spent a lifetime welcoming travelers to experience Western life firsthand. THINGS TO REMEMBER • Dude ranches were among the first destination vacation experiences in the American West. • Arizona once hosted hundreds of guest ranches, with Tucson a major hub. • Ranches like White Stallion continue to preserve Western culture, horsemanship, and hospitality. • For many guests, a dude ranch becomes a lifelong tradition shared across generations. THINGS TO SHARE • The American West is not just history—it is still alive in places like guest ranches. • Experiences rooted in nature, community, and tradition are increasingly valuable in today’s busy world. • A week at a dude ranch may offer more lasting memories than many modern vacations. THINGS TO DO • Listen to the Arizona Roundup program featuring Russell True. • Visit the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, to explore the region’s remarkable Western heritage. • Consider planning your own Western adventure at a classic guest ranch like White Stallion Ranch. FINAL THOUGHT The West has always been more than a place. It is an experience—of open skies, honest work, strong horses, and friendships formed around campfires and long rides. Thanks to ranchers like Russell True, that experience remains alive for new generations to discover.
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The Art Colony of One (and the Power Trio of Prescott):
Kate Corey, Grace Sparks, and the Women Who Built a Town
03/02/2026
The Art Colony of One (and the Power Trio of Prescott):
Kate Corey, Grace Sparks, and the Women Who Built a Town
In this episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes Prescott resident and living-history presenter Brenda Cusick for a fast-moving, story-rich conversation about two remarkable women who helped shape Arizona—and a third whose influence ties them together like a well-built bridge: artist Kate T. Corey, civic powerhouse Grace Sparks, and historian-founder Charlotte Hall. What starts as a preview of an upcoming Sharlot Hall Museum program becomes something bigger: a lively, sometimes funny, and often inspiring tour through early Arizona—told through the lives of three women who didn’t just participate in history… they made it. The Program’s Big Idea Brenda Cusick has become an expert interpreter of Kate Corey and Grace Sparks, and Stuart frames the conversation around a compelling truth: Prescott wasn’t simply a quiet mountain town in the early 1900s—it was an influential cultural and civic hub. And these women helped keep it that way. Kate Corey: painter, photographer, diarist, ethnographic observer, educator—an artist who became her own “art colony.” Grace Sparks: the practical force who kept Prescott visible, viable, and vibrant through tourism, public works, preservation, and promotion. Charlotte Hall: a woman of letters and history whose leadership helped preserve Arizona’s story—and whose legacy lives on through the museum itself. Meet Kate Corey: Manhattan Socialite to Hopi Mesa Adventurer Kate Corey’s story begins in the Gilded Age of Manhattan. After the deaths of her parents, she buys a round-trip train ticket west in 1905—pursuing an artistic vision that takes her to the Hopi Mesas. When the artist who inspired her journey never arrives, she declares, “I am the art colony. It’s me.” She steps off the train in Canyon Diablo, rides under vast desert skies, lives among the Hopi people, and ultimately writes an English-to-Hopi dictionary when none exists. Her diaries, artwork, photography, poetry, and advocacy reveal a woman of extraordinary independence and vision. Why Prescott? Thumb Butte and a Pueblo Home After years on the mesas, Kate chooses Prescott. Drawn by the forest and especially Thumb Butte, she builds a small pueblo-style home with the help of Hopi friends. She writes an epic poem, The Legend of Thumb Butte, and creates a body of work that spans Hopi portraiture, landscapes, flora, and desert imagery. Her life stretches from the Civil War era to the atomic age—an extraordinary arc of American transformation witnessed through the eyes of a determined Western artist. Enter Grace Sparks: Civic Vision in Action If Kate Corey brought artistic depth, Grace Sparks brought civic drive. Through her work with early tourism, promotion, and preservation efforts, Sparks helped ensure Prescott remained culturally relevant and economically viable. She played a role in sustaining major community institutions and is credited with helping rescue the World’s Oldest Continuous Rodeo when it was near bankruptcy—demonstrating that civic leadership requires imagination as well as grit. A Balanced Trinity of Influence Together, Charlotte Hall, Kate Corey, and Grace Sparks form a remarkable trio. Charlotte preserved history. Kate recorded culture through art and writing. Grace built the civic structure that allowed both memory and growth to thrive. Their combined influence shaped not only Prescott’s story—but Arizona’s identity. Special Invitation: Twilight Tales at Sharlot Hall Museum On March 10 at 5:00 PM, Brenda Cusick presents a one-woman interpretation of Kate Corey at the Sharlot Hall Museum as part of the Twilight Tales series. The evening will include special artwork displays, light refreshments, and an opportunity to experience Kate’s story as a living voice from Arizona’s past. Things to Remember, Share, and Act Upon • History is often shaped by those who refuse to shrink. • “I am the art colony. It’s me.” • Communities thrive when art, preservation, and civic leadership work together. Attend the Twilight Tales program. Visit Prescott’s museums. Share these stories. Elevate these women to the level of recognition they deserve. Closing This Arizona Roundup episode reminds us that communities don’t drift into significance—they are built by people with grit, imagination, and conviction. If you love Western history, civic storytelling, and the untold heroes of Arizona, this episode—and the Sharlot Hall Museum—offer a powerful place to begin.
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Daughters of Daring How Chris Enss Restores the Women Who Built the Western Screen
02/25/2026
Daughters of Daring How Chris Enss Restores the Women Who Built the Western Screen
When Stuart Rosebrook welcomed New York Times bestselling author Chris Enss to Arizona Roundup at Sharlot Hall Museum, Western history enthusiasts knew they were in for something special. Enss has built a formidable reputation among Western buffs, not merely as a storyteller, but as a restorer of record — a historian who brings the women of the American West back into full, living color. In this compelling episode, the conversation ranges from frontier weather journals to Wild West arenas to the earliest days of Hollywood stunt work. But at its heart, the program centers on Enss’s newest book, Daughters of Daring — a vivid chronicle of cowgirls, sharpshooters, riders, and aviators who shaped Western entertainment long before most audiences realized they were watching pioneers. From Frontier Grit to Center Stage Enss reminds listeners that Western women were never passive observers of history. In ranch journals and homestead diaries, weather reports doubled as survival manuals. Snowpack, drought, runoff — these were not abstractions. They were the difference between success and failure. From that crucible of hard-earned skill emerged a generation of women whose riding, shooting, and roping abilities rivaled — and often surpassed — their male counterparts. Wild West shows recognized that audiences were eager to see women perform daring feats. Buffalo Bill Cody understood the commercial and cultural power of showcasing talented women, and Hollywood soon followed. The First Stunt Professionals One of the most surprising revelations of Daughters of Daring is that early Hollywood stunt work was frequently performed by women. Why? They were lighter in the saddle, precise in execution, and capable of remarkable balance and horsemanship. In many cases, they were the best choice for the job. These women leapt from trains, crashed wagons, performed sharpshooting routines at full gallop, and endured dangerous falls — often for modest pay and minimal protection. Yet they returned again and again, not driven merely by spectacle, but by mastery. They were professionals. Beyond the Arena: The Need for Speed As Rosebrook notes in the program, modern audiences may think of escalating stunt work as a recent phenomenon. Enss corrects the record. The appetite for risk, speed, and innovation runs deep in Western entertainment. Many of these performers transitioned from horseback to aircraft, joining the Ninety-Nines and helping legitimize women in aviation. Their daring extended from rodeo grounds to runways, from silent film serials to the skies above America. Why This Story Matters to Western History Among Western aficionados, Chris Enss shines brightest when illuminating the lives of frontier women. Her scholarship restores dimension to a genre often told through male-centered narratives. The women she chronicles were not supporting characters. They were innovators, risk-takers, and cultural architects. For those who cherish Western heritage — rodeo fans, film historians, museum patrons, and lovers of American frontier stories — Daughters of Daring offers both revelation and recognition. Things to Remember • Western women were foundational to the success of Wild West shows and early Hollywood Westerns. • Early stunt work often depended on women’s horsemanship and balance. • The spirit of daring extended into aviation and national service. • Much of this history has only recently been fully acknowledged. Things to Share • The Western genre owes a significant debt to female performers whose names are not widely known. • Chris Enss continues to lead the field in documenting the lives of women in the American West. • Museums and historical institutions play a vital role in preserving and promoting these stories. Things to Act Upon • Listen to or watch this Arizona Roundup episode featuring Chris Enss. • Visit Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott and support its programming. • Read Daughters of Daring and explore more of Enss’s extensive catalog of Western women’s history. A Final Word The American West was built by bold spirits — and many of those spirits wore boots and skirts, rode hard, and risked everything for excellence. Through Daughters of Daring and her ongoing work, Chris Enss ensures that their courage is no longer a footnote, but a headline. To experience these stories firsthand, visit Sharlot Hall Museum, attend the upcoming presentation, and support the authors who continue to deepen our understanding of the West.
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A Valentine to Arizona: Art, History, and Statehood at Sharlot Hall Museum
02/10/2026
A Valentine to Arizona: Art, History, and Statehood at Sharlot Hall Museum
Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook returns with a timely and thoughtful conversation recorded on location at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona. In this episode, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes Paul Fees, Deputy Director of Programs, for a rich exploration of Arizona history, public art, and the living heritage celebrated each February on Arizona Statehood Day. The discussion unfolds against the backdrop of unusually warm winter days in Prescott and the anticipation surrounding February 14, 1912—the day Arizona officially became the 48th state. Listeners are introduced to the Arizona 250 Traveling Museum, a statewide initiative marking the road toward America’s 250th anniversary, featuring Arizona’s replica Liberty Bell and a mobile, glass-sided exhibition bringing history directly to the public. At the heart of the program is the long-awaited public presentation of a remarkable mural by artist Charles Kemp. Measuring seven feet high and twenty feet wide, the painting depicts Prescott’s courthouse plaza as it appeared around June of 1900, just weeks before the devastating fire that reshaped downtown. Once quietly displayed inside a local bank, the mural has now found its rightful home at Sharlot Hall Museum, where it can be appreciated as both fine art and historical document. As Rosebrook and Fees explain, Kemp was part of a largely anonymous generation of commercial artists whose work shaped advertising, magazines, and early film design in the first half of the twentieth century. Though much of Kemp’s professional work was unsigned, this mural reveals his mastery of light, color, and composition—placing the viewer directly on Whiskey Row beneath Prescott’s unmistakable blue sky. Beyond the mural, the episode highlights a full weekend of activity at the museum, including free admission for Statehood Day, additional art exhibitions, and opportunities to explore Prescott’s broader cultural landscape. From historic fashion in the exhibit “Dressed in Prescott” to works by Kate Cory, Bob Boze Bell, and Tom Ross, visitors are encouraged to experience the museum campus as a place where art, history, and community meet. Arizona Roundup reminds listeners that Arizona’s story is not confined to textbooks or plaques—it lives in paintings, artifacts, buildings, and shared memories. This episode invites everyone to slow down, look closely, and rediscover the people and places that shaped the state. THINGS TO REMEMBER Arizona’s statehood story is alive and visible through art, artifacts, and place. Public art can quietly shape our understanding of history until it is truly seen. Sharlot Hall Museum serves as a guardian and storyteller of Arizona’s shared heritage. THINGS TO SHARE Invite friends and family to experience Arizona Statehood Day at the museum. Share the story of the Charles Kemp mural as an example of rediscovered history. Recommend Arizona Roundup as a way to stay connected to Prescott’s cultural life. THINGS TO NOTE AND TAKE ACTION ON Make time to explore local museums and historic sites. Support organizations that preserve public art and regional history. Attend community events that connect past, present, and future generations. This episode of Arizona Roundup is both a celebration and an invitation—to step into Arizona’s story. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, Sharlot Hall Museum offers a welcoming place to experience the art, history, and spirit that continue to define Arizona.
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Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook at Sharlot Hall Museum with Bob Boze Bell- Boze-Cards, Blogs & the Mother Road”
01/31/2026
Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook at Sharlot Hall Museum with Bob Boze Bell- Boze-Cards, Blogs & the Mother Road”
A legendary Bob Boze Bell ride through Route 66, newsroom lore, and the magic of Western connection On this episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook sits down with legendary storyteller, artist, publisher, and all-around Western sparkplug Bob Boze Bell for a wide-ranging, laugh-out-loud, truth-with-a-twinkle conversation that proves one thing: the West isn’t just a place—it’s a pile of great stories looking for the right campfire. Recorded at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, the episode opens with a heartfelt reflection on what’s been lost in the age of remote work: the hum of offices, ringing phones, spontaneous conversations, and the creative friction that makes great work possible. From there, Bob shares pivotal stories from his career at True West Magazine, including how a chance encounter brought national magazine experience to the publication at exactly the right moment. He explains how his daily blogging discipline—built on consistency rather than inspiration—continues to fuel magazine covers, features, and cultural conversations. Listeners are treated to classic Bob Boze Bell storytelling, including the Hollywood journey of his iconic character “Honky Tonk Sue,” complete with agents, scripts, big names, and the hard truth that sometimes the world buys the idea but never quite finds the story strong enough to make the movie. The conversation then rolls onto Route 66—the Mother Road—not as nostalgia, but as living metaphor. Bob reflects on how Route 66 became a global legend, why it draws travelers from around the world, and how he had to leave America to truly understand what the road represents about the American spirit. Along the way, Bob previews what’s ahead in True West Magazine: milestone anniversaries, deep Western history, and a Route 66 issue packed with camels, characters, gunfights, river crossings, and stories that feel as alive today as they were a century ago. Through it all, Bob delivers sharp observations, generous humor, and unforgettable one-liners—the kind that belong carved into a saloon wall. From the high country of Arizona and the story-filled halls of Sharlot Hall Museum, Arizona Roundup reminds us that the past still speaks, legends still ride, and the best stories are waiting just around the bend. Until next time—keep your eyes up, your curiosity alive, and your trail lined with good stories. s
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The Three Pauls Ride Into Prescott ... And let the storytelling begin
01/12/2026
The Three Pauls Ride Into Prescott ... And let the storytelling begin
A lively Western history roundtable at Sharlot Hall Museum—where scholarship meets story, and legends get their labels checked If you’ve ever wished you could pull up a chair while three top-tier Western historians swap stories, compare notes, and argue (politely) about what really matters in telling America’s story—Arizona Roundup host Stuart Rosebrook made it happen. Recorded at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, this 1 hour and 27 minute episode is billed simply as “AZR – The 3 Pauls!”—and it delivers exactly what the title promises: a rare, warm, and surprisingly funny conversation with Paul Hedren, Paul Andrew Hutton, and Paul Fees. They arrive from “near and far” (Prescott, Cody, Omaha), but the real destination isn’t just Arizona—it’s that place all good history takes you: the moment you suddenly understand the past as human, complicated, and still alive. A roundtable built on friendship—and a big year in Western books Stuart Rosebrook sets the stage with a premise any history-lover can appreciate: it’s been a banner year for Western publishing, and two major new titles are at the center of the conversation. Paul Hedren brings Sitting Bull’s War (Pegasus Books), a work that insists the Little Bighorn story can’t be told honestly without hearing Native voices and seeing Native motives as more than footnotes. Paul Andrew Hutton brings The Undiscovered Country: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Shaping of the American West (Dutton), an ambitious, big-arc American story told through seven lives—frontier icons and Native leaders—moving from early frontier conflict to the closing of the 19th century. But the episode isn’t a sales pitch disguised as scholarship. It’s closer to a well-fed dinner table conversation where everyone knows the stories, the places, and the personalities—and still laughs at the odd turns that made their careers. Walk where history happened A theme keeps resurfacing: history isn’t just dates and arguments—it’s place. Hedren explains how landscape isn’t scenery—it’s evidence. Hutton echoes it with a lifetime of pilgrimages to places like Cody and Little Bighorn. Fees adds the museum professional’s angle: sometimes the object and the story matter more to a child than any label—especially if the label is wrong. The now-famous “Davy Crockett’s bloody vest” story lands as both humor and lesson: myth, memory, and meaning all collide, reminding us why museums and historians exist—not to kill wonder, but to mature it. Why these books matter now The conversation insists that Western history is not a side genre—it is American history. Hutton frames the West as central to American identity, shaped by discovery, reinvention, and tragic collision. Hedren complements that arc by restoring Native perspective, voice, and consequence to stories long told from the top down. Read together, these books help readers see the West as achievement and cost, myth and reality, memory and meaning. The 250th anniversary invitation With America’s 250th anniversary approaching in 2026, this episode becomes an invitation: celebrate by going somewhere meaningful, asking better questions, and standing where history happened. Travel the two-lane roads. Let surprise happen. Listen carefully when someone points to a name on a monument and says, “That was my ancestor.” Things to remember The West shaped American identity. Great history must be readable to matter. Landscapes tell stories if we learn how to read them. Things to share The Davy Crockett vest story. The idea that complexity honors history. The joy of traveling like a historian. Things to act on Read Sitting Bull’s War and The Undiscovered Country. Plan one history-centered trip in 2026. Visit a museum and ask what story is missing. Closing thanks Arizona Roundup created a rare kind of episode: scholarly yet accessible, serious yet warm, and thoughtful without losing its grin. Thanks to host Stuart Rosebrook, to Paul Hedren, Paul Andrew Hutton, and Paul Fees, and to Marv Kaiser for bringing this memorable roundtable together. Happy New Year—and here’s to a 2026 that doesn’t just celebrate history, but learns from it.
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When the Boot Drops, the Year Begins Prescott’s Whiskey Row Prepares for a World-Class New Year’s Eve Celebration
12/26/2025
When the Boot Drops, the Year Begins Prescott’s Whiskey Row Prepares for a World-Class New Year’s Eve Celebration
As December settles into Arizona’s high country and Prescott shines once again as Arizona’s Christmas City, attention quietly turns toward one unforgettable night—New Year’s Eve on historic Whiskey Row. In a recent episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomed Matt Brassard, owner of Matt’s Saloon and president of the Prescott Downtown Partnership, to talk about one of the Southwest’s most beloved New Year’s traditions: The Boot Drop. Now celebrating its 15th anniversary, the Boot Drop has grown from a hometown idea into a signature event that draws more than 25,000 people to downtown Prescott each year. Planning begins months in advance, bringing together city leaders, sponsors, local businesses, and volunteers. Whiskey Row closes from Gurley to Goodwin, transforming downtown into a festive, family-friendly celebration space filled with live music, food vendors, carnival games, warming fire barrels, and thousands of people ready to celebrate together. The Boot Drop features two countdowns—one at 10:00 p.m. for families and East Coast celebrations, and another at midnight to ring in the New Year locally. Live music fills the streets and venues, with The Instant Classics performing high-energy hits outside while bars and saloons host bands indoors. Food trucks and vendors serve everything from hot chocolate to tacos and carnival favorites. In recent years, national media including CNN has broadcast the event worldwide, putting Prescott’s New Year’s celebration on the global stage. This year introduces new elements like a silent disco and interactive bubble entertainment, adding fresh energy to a cherished tradition. Things to Remember: • Free, family-friendly event • Streets close at 7:00 p.m. • Two boot drops at 10:00 p.m. and midnight Things to Share: • One of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the Southwest • National and international media coverage Things to Take Note Of: • Dress warmly • Make restaurant reservations early • Parking available nearby, including the Granite Street Garage Learn more and plan your evening at bootdrop.com. Warm holiday wishes and a Happy New Year from Arizona Roundup.
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A Christmas Tree, a Boy, and the Making of Family
12/24/2025
A Christmas Tree, a Boy, and the Making of Family
A Special Arizona Roundup Christmas Story from Sharlot Hall Museum In this special Christmas edition of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook shares a deeply personal and quietly powerful holiday story—one that blends family history, Arizona heritage, and the enduring meaning of belonging. The story centers on Stuart’s father, Jeb Rosebrook, and a Christmas spent far from home in December 1945, just months after the end of World War II. As a young boy suffering from severe asthma, Jeb had been sent west from the East Coast to the Quarter Circle V-Bar Ranch School in central Arizona, where the dry air and demanding ranch life restored his health—and shaped his character. That Christmas, with trains filled by returning soldiers and no passage available east, ten-year-old Jeb remained behind while other students went home. What might have been a lonely holiday instead became a defining moment. Ranch founder Charles “Uncle Chick” Orm invited the boy to accompany him into the snowy Bradshaw Mountains to cut a Christmas tree—a simple journey that became an act of quiet grace. Through Stuart Rosebrook’s telling—and through Jeb’s own words—the listener is drawn into the cold air, the crunch of snow, the echo of an axe in the pines, and the warmth of a Christmas morning where family was chosen as much as inherited. That single tree, carried back on an open truck through winter wind, became a symbol of welcome, care, and belonging. This brief story stands beautifully on its own, yet it also invites listeners to experience the full Christmas program from Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, where history is preserved not just through artifacts, but through lived human stories—stories of resilience, kindness, and unexpected gifts. As part of today’s special Arizona Roundup Christmas broadcast, this story is joined by other seasonal reflections and features that celebrate Arizona’s past and the enduring spirit of community. It is a reminder that sometimes the greatest Christmas gifts are not found under a tree—but beside it. Merry Christmas from Arizona Roundup and Sharlot Hall Museum. May the season bring you warmth, memory, and moments that matter.
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Where History Comes Alive: Why Volunteering at Sharlot Hall Museum Matters More Than Ever
12/12/2025
Where History Comes Alive: Why Volunteering at Sharlot Hall Museum Matters More Than Ever
A conversation with Volunteer Coordinator Greg Kenny on Arizona Roundup (hosted by Stuart Rosebrook) History is not meant to sit silently on shelves or behind glass. It is meant to be shared, lived, and passed forward—one story, one conversation, and one volunteer at a time. That message comes through clearly in this Arizona Roundup episode, as Stuart Rosebrook welcomes Greg Kenny, Sharlot Hall Museum’s Volunteer Coordinator. From Classroom to Museum Campus: A Calling Discovered Greg Kenny’s path into museum work began in education. With a social science degree focused on history and experience teaching middle and high school students, he learned that curiosity accelerates when learners step into real places—museums, historic sites, and the landscapes where stories happened. That insight led him into the museum world, including years at the Palm Springs Air Museum, and eventually to Prescott—where he has spent the last two years building one of Sharlot Hall Museum’s most vital strengths: its volunteer community. The Heart of the Museum: Nearly 175 Volunteers Strong Sharlot Hall Museum relies on an active corps of roughly 175 volunteers supporting both the main museum campus and the Fort Whipple Museum. These volunteers power the day-to-day guest experience—greeting visitors, interpreting history, supporting programs, preserving collections, and helping the museum remain a living place of learning. As Kenny notes, volunteers bring more than time: they bring life experience, curiosity, and a willingness to share. For many children and first-time visitors, museum volunteers provide something increasingly rare—authentic connection across generations. Many Roles, One Mission The episode highlights a wide range of volunteer roles, including: Historic building docents and interpreters Tour guides for school groups and adult visitors Living history volunteers Library and archives support (including genealogy and oral history) Curatorial and collections support (with specialized training) Gardens and grounds (seasonal needs) Guest services, bookstore support, and event helpers Volunteers are encouraged to explore where their interests and talents fit best—and many choose to serve in more than one area. Training That Builds Confidence—and Community New volunteer training classes typically begin in the second week of February and meet on Thursday mornings for a couple of hours. The sessions provide a well-rounded introduction to the museum’s campus, programs, research center, and operations. To keep the process accessible, classes are recorded for those who miss a session or join later in the season. Still, the museum strongly encourages attending in person—because the best learning happens through human interaction, questions, and shared discovery. One favorite highlight: a behind-the-scenes look into the collections vaults, where decades of Arizona history are preserved beyond what the public typically sees. More Than Information: Creating Connection A strong theme throughout the episode is connection—docents adapting stories to visitor interests, tour guides reading the room for fourth graders or senior groups, and archivists helping people find family and community history. Kenny emphasizes that volunteers often receive as much as they give: stories from visitors, new perspectives, and those memorable moments when a “light bulb” turns on—when a guest realizes why Arizona history matters to their own life. Things to Remember Museums are living classrooms powered by people, not just artifacts. Volunteers are essential to Sharlot Hall Museum’s daily impact. History becomes meaningful through conversation and connection. There are volunteer opportunities for many interests and skill levels. Things to Share Sharlot Hall Museum offers a diverse volunteer program serving both campus and Fort Whipple. Training is supportive and designed to build confidence. Volunteers include educators, storytellers, researchers, gardeners, and event helpers. Volunteering is a meaningful way for newcomers to Prescott to connect and contribute. Things to Take Note Of—and Act Upon Volunteer training begins each February, with options to catch up if you miss a session. Opportunities exist year-round, including tours, events, and research support. Both working professionals and retirees are welcome. A willing heart and curiosity matter more than prior museum experience. A Challenge Worth Accepting If you’re looking for more than something to do—if you’re looking for something that matters—consider volunteering at Sharlot Hall Museum. This is not about filling time; it is about preserving memory, serving community, and helping Arizona’s story stay alive. Take the next step: visit the museum’s volunteer page and reach out to Volunteer Coordinator Greg Kenny to begin the process. Volunteer Contact Website: sharlothallmuseum.org/volunteer Email: greg.kenny@sharlothallmuseum.org Volunteer Office: (928) 277-2006 History is calling. The next chapter may include you.
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A Prescott Christmas Carol Returns: Sharlot Hall Museum and Arizona Roundup Celebrate Frontier Christmas Tradition
12/04/2025
A Prescott Christmas Carol Returns: Sharlot Hall Museum and Arizona Roundup Celebrate Frontier Christmas Tradition
Prescott’s holiday season shines brighter each year, and one of its most beloved traditions again takes center stage as Arizona Roundup host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes radio-theater producers and performers Celia and Bill Osborne to share the story behind A Prescott Christmas Carol. This special Christmas program—now in its fifth season at Sharlot Hall Museum—blends historic Prescott charm, old-time radio magic, and Charles Dickens’ timeless message of generosity and hope. In this episode of Arizona Roundup, listeners get a warm, behind-the-scenes look at the creative couple who have helped revive the classic art of radio theater in the Central Highlands. With decades of experience in broadcasting, writing, acting, and sound design, the Osbornes have made their “Purple Iris Theater” productions a treasured part of Prescott’s cultural landscape. A Story Rooted in History—and Prescott Pride This year’s Prescott Christmas Carol is a freshly updated, lovingly reimagined adaptation of Dickens’ 19th-century classic. Set in territorial Prescott of the 1880s, the script brings in local landmarks, familiar street names, and notable figures from the city’s early history. It’s the perfect blend of Victorian tradition and Frontier Arizona storytelling. Celia, the playwright and director, refines the script annually—adding new jokes, deeper references, and even more Prescott flavor. Bill, the production’s master Foley artist, brings the story fully to life with an astonishing array of sound-effect instruments collected over the years. A Holiday Tradition at Sharlot Hall Museum Prescott, proudly known as Arizona’s Christmas City, thrives on community, heritage, and the arts. A Prescott Christmas Carol beautifully embodies that spirit. The event is scheduled for: Thursday, December 11 Performances at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM Sharlot Hall Museum Tickets: $25 at SharlotHallMuseum.org Celebrating Local Talent and the Magic of Radio Stuart Rosebrook and the Sharlot Hall Museum staff give a heartfelt salute to Celia and Bill Osborne for their commitment to preserving radio theater as a living American art form. Their creativity, warmth, and deep connection to Prescott’s cultural life continue to make A Prescott Christmas Carol one of the community’s most anticipated holiday traditions. Get Your Tickets Today Visit SharlotHallMuseum.org and reserve your seats for A Prescott Christmas Carol.
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From Tombstone Trails to Feeding a Community:
The Extraordinary Life and Legacy of George Chesney
11/28/2025
From Tombstone Trails to Feeding a Community:
The Extraordinary Life and Legacy of George Chesney
A Family Woven Into the Fabric of Arizona In this richly layered episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes a remarkable guest: George Chesney, a Prescott-area resident whose life bridges corporate leadership, deep Arizona roots, and heartfelt community service. What begins as a simple conversation quickly unfolds into a sweeping family saga—complete with frontier courage, territorial treks, the Tombstone stagecoach wars, and a modern-day commitment to feeding hungry neighbors. Listeners come away with both a richer understanding of Arizona history and renewed appreciation for the power of one life lived with purpose. A Family Woven Into the Fabric of Arizona (Continued) George’s story doesn’t merely touch Arizona history—it runs straight through some of the most dramatic chapters of the state’s territorial era. His family’s journey spans: Wisconsin dairy farms, A winter-ravaged ranch in Montana, A cattle drive through Utah and the Beale Road corridor, A year near Oatman and Signal, and Final settlement along the San Pedro River in Cochise County in the late 1870s. There, his ancestors ran cattle, cultivated small crops, and eventually operated Drew’s Station, a stage stop just north of the settlement of Contention. And that’s where the history gets thrilling. The Bud Philpott Stagecoach Killing Few stories in the Tombstone timeline are more dramatic than the ambush and murder of legendary stage driver Bud Philpott, an event that most historians identify as taking place near George’s family’s stage stop. George shares how his ancestor found Philpott’s body, becoming one of the first witnesses in the case, and how that experience led the young man into law enforcement, where he later became the first officer in Pinal County killed in the line of duty. The murder of Philpott became a catalyst that pushed the Earp brothers to take a stand against lawlessness in southeastern Arizona—ultimately leading to the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Listeners can almost feel the dust of the San Pedro River Valley rising again as Stuart and George trace the routes, roads, and rivalries that shaped the region. Grandmothers, Ranches, and Riparian Wonders George weaves in family tales of a grandmother born in Aravaipa Canyon in 1898; early ranching families in Graham and Cochise Counties; pioneer photographs, traveling photographers, butcher shops in Tombstone, and the fascinating journey of a Scottish immigrant great-grandmother adapting to life in the Wild West. It’s the kind of storytelling that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a great novel—except it all really happened. From Cruise Ships to Community Service After a globe-spanning career as a Senior Vice President for Norwegian Cruise Lines, George retired to Prescott—yet his retirement turned out to be anything but quiet. His lifetime of service and compassion led him to partner with community food programs in Chino Valley and Prescott; manage food distribution through St. Luke’s Episcopal Church; work with St. Mary’s Food Bank, the Yavapai Food Neighbor Program, and the Community Food Cupboard; and oversee record-breaking monthly distributions as need has increased in Yavapai County. One of the most touching moments in the program comes when George shares what a client once told him: “I like coming here because I get a smile, and I get a hug if I need one, as well as food.” A Touch of Humor True to Arizona Roundup style, Stuart and George sprinkle in easy good humor: the realities of old Arizona weather; airline cargo containers likened to modern strongboxes; a friendly jab about cheering for the “wrong” Iowa college; and the eternal question of why anyone would choose Montana winters on purpose. The laughter reminds us that even the most serious history comes from ordinary people who lived real, complicated, sometimes humorous lives. Things to Remember Arizona history is made up of ordinary families who endured extraordinary trials. The Philpott killing was a pivotal moment leading toward the O.K. Corral gunfight. Drew’s Station was once a vital hub on the stage route between Tombstone, Contention, Benson, and Bisbee. Food insecurity in Yavapai County remains a real and pressing issue. Things to Share Stories like George’s connect present-day Arizona to its territorial frontier. Community food pantries depend on donations of fresh, shelf-stable, and in-date items. History becomes richer when explored through personal stories—not just textbooks. Prescott continues to attract people who want to serve, contribute, and preserve. Things to Take Note Of The Sharlot Hall Museum is a world-class hub of Western history and preservation. The museum’s stagecoach—possibly connected to these events—deserves further research and restoration. Local food pantries need boxed cereal, canned protein, meals-in-a-can, canned fruit, and shelf-stable staples. Composting expired food helps reduce waste and environmental impact. A Grateful Thank You to Sharlot Hall Museum Arizona Roundup is proudly produced in partnership with the Sharlot Hall Museum, a cornerstone of Prescott’s heritage and a champion of Western storytelling. Visitors and supporters are encouraged to explore the museum, visit the Transportation Hall, meet the historians, attend live programs and community events, and donate food in their seasonal collection bins. Visit Sharlot Hall Museum Address: 415 W. Gurley Street, Prescott, AZ Website: sharlothallmuseum.org Phone: 928-445-3122 Come Visit the Mile-High Cowboy City Whether you’re a history buff, hiker, storyteller, or lover of Arizona culture, Prescott welcomes you. Come walk the streets where history happened, enjoy genuine Western hospitality, and shake hands with the folks who keep these stories alive.
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In the Strong Green Hills of God: Arizona Roundup Celebrates Sharlot Hall, Nature, and the Human Story
11/21/2025
In the Strong Green Hills of God: Arizona Roundup Celebrates Sharlot Hall, Nature, and the Human Story
Arizona Roundup, broadcasting from the historic Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, delivered another rich, soul-warming episode with host Stuart Rosebrook and special guest Maria Icenogle, Educational Director at the Highland Center for Natural History. Together, they wove a tapestry of poetry, natural beauty, early Arizona history, and quiet moments of wonder that shape both childhood memory and community identity. This episode opened with a gentle, lyrical reading of “A Forest Lullaby” by Sharlot Hall, reminding listeners that Arizona’s beloved poet—often overshadowed by her political and pioneering accomplishments—was first and foremost a gifted literary voice. Hall’s writing, like the state itself, is rooted in keen observation, solitude, and the intimate music of the land. Stuart and Maria placed her alongside figures such as Laura Ingalls Wilder, lifting her from the margins and restoring her rightful place as a foundational voice in Arizona arts and letters. From there, the program expanded into a thoughtful, often humorous reflection on how people become Arizonans—not by accident or aliens, as Stuart joked—but through journeys shaped by family, health, curiosity, or simply the call of the wide Southwestern sky. Maria shared her small-town Indiana upbringing, a childhood full of creeks, woods, journals, and a stump-desk crafted by her father. It was a childhood that eerily echoed Sharlot Hall’s own formative experiences: quiet observation, a strong sense of place, and a deep intimacy with nature. Both Stuart and Maria recalled influential teachers who opened the world through poetry and literature. They reminded listeners that the most transformative moments in life are often quiet—“not the ones with exclamation points,” as Maria said, but the subtle turning points: a book, a walk under tall pines, a teacher who simply believed. The episode also highlighted the Highland Center for Natural History, a beloved Prescott institution nestled in the Prescott National Forest. Maria described the Highland Center as: • An 80-acre campus of trails, wildlife, gardens, and education • An off-grid sustainable facility with a nature store, journals, puppets, and irresistible “giant metal bug sculptures” that every nine-year-old loves • A place where children, adults, naturalists, and new Arizonans discover the essence of the Central Arizona Highlands From campfire storytelling and wilderness programs to grief-support gatherings among the pines, Maria emphasized that the Highland Center is for everyone—from age nine to ninety. Stuart also connected the mission of the Highland Center with the broader cultural network of Prescott—the Phippen Museum, the Museum of Indigenous People, the Western Heritage Center, the Center for Natural History, and of course, the Sharlot Hall Museum. This community of museums and educators carries the dual mission of preserving heritage and welcoming newcomers, helping all residents—lifelong or newly arrived—find belonging, purpose, and pride in their shared home. The program concluded with a stirring reading of Sharlot Hall’s poem “In the Bracken,” a timeless tribute to pine forests, breezes, quail, lizards, chipmunks, and the gentle presence of God in nature. It was a fitting end to a warm and reflective Thanksgiving-season episode—one that lifted hearts while deepening appreciation for Arizona’s land, culture, and community. Things to Remember • Sharlot Hall was far more than a politician; she was one of Arizona’s great literary voices whose quiet observations still inspire. • The Central Arizona Highlands are a unique ecological region—mountains, pines, grasslands, and diverse wildlife that shaped generations. • Quiet experiences—poems, teachers, walks in nature—often have the deepest impact. • The cultural institutions of Prescott form a unified community of storytellers, educators, and preservationists. Things to Share • Share Sharlot Hall’s poetry with friends or family—her words are windows into early Arizona life. • Encourage newcomers to visit the Highland Center, Sharlot Hall Museum, and other cultural sites. • Share stories of your own origins. “How did you become an Arizonan?” is a doorway to connection. Things to Think About • What quiet experiences in your childhood shaped you? • Who helped you see the world through poetry, history, or nature? • What part of Arizona’s landscape makes you feel most at home? Possible Actions to Take • Visit HighlandsCenter.org and sign up for the newsletter. • Attend upcoming seasonal events such as Winter Luminaria Nights at the Highland Center. • Plan a visit to Sharlot Hall Museum and explore its exhibits and programs. • Volunteer—at either institution—to help preserve culture and nature for future generations. A Closing Note of Inspiration Just as Sharlot Hall traveled the Santa Fe Trail with observant eyes, and just as Maria journeyed from Indiana woods to Arizona pines, all of us are part of a larger story—one woven from courage, curiosity, community, and place. The Central Arizona Highlands still whisper possibilities to those who listen. May we carry that sense of wonder into our lives, our families, and our community. For more programs, events, and opportunities to get involved, visit: Sharlot Hall Museum — Prescott, Arizona HighlandsCenter.org — Highland Center for Natural History Both organizations welcome you, your story, and your curiosity.
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Arizona Roundup – A Celebration of Prescott, Big Hats and Deeper Roots
11/15/2025
Arizona Roundup – A Celebration of Prescott, Big Hats and Deeper Roots
Sharlot Hall Museum • Host: Stuart Rosebrook • Guest: Rex Hinshaw Step into a rich tapestry of place, people and heritage with Arizona Roundup, the distinctive broadcast from the storied grounds of the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona. Host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes long‑time cowboy‑spirit contributor Rex Hinshaw for a leisurely, heartfelt conversation that traces decades of Arizona life — horse racing, rodeos, architecture, family ties, and the enduring western ethos. What the Program Is In this edition of Arizona Roundup, Stuart and Rex revisit the crossroads of Arizona’s past and present — from summers in the Bradshaw Mountains and racetrack memories at Prescott Downs, to the ongoing legacy of the great 4th of July celebration in Prescott; from Rex’s childhood in Buckeye and Safford to his adult life helping shape the rodeo, architecture, and heritage of Prescott. The show isn’t just an interview; it’s a journey into place‑based memories, family threads, and the embrace of community across generations. Their dialogue is rich with texture: a young boy holding on to his belt loops behind his dad at a rodeo; afternoons spent behind the judges’ stand at the racetrack; the saga of moving the 1875 Fremont House into the Museum; the silver‑screen moment of shooting pool with Steve McQueen during the filming of Junior Bonner — all woven into the fabric of Prescott’s identity. Why It Resonates Emotion & nostalgia: This isn’t just historic fact‑telling. It’s lived experience. The kind of story where you can feel the horse’s breath, hear the announcer’s prayer in the rodeo arena, and recall the smell of summer evenings at the racetrack. Connection to place: While Arizona has grown and changed, the voices here remind listeners that Prescott remains a node of enduring traditions and relationships. Authentic people, authentic stories: Rex isn’t just a guest — he is part of the narrative. His father and uncle, his summers in Prescott, his architecture career and leadership in the rodeo board make the conversation personal and grounded. Transformation and heritage: From ranchlands to film sets to historic house moves, the show reflects how the western tradition adapts — while still holding onto its lodestars of purpose, courage, and community. Takeaways to Share Things to Remember The power of a single story: One childhood moment (that bull tossing the fence) can carry a lifetime of meaning. The value of mixture: Architecture, horse racing, filmmaking and rodeo differ — but the spirit of enthusiasm and respect unites them. The importance of place: Prescott and the Sharlot Hall Museum are anchors that connect generations. Things to Share “Rex tells of shooting pool with Steve McQueen during the filming of Junior Bonner — you’ve got to hear it.” “The Fremont House was moved to the Museum; Rex was there, knocking on walls to find the originals.” “Prescott Downs glory days: Rex worked there 23 summers — quarter horses and thoroughbreds.” Things to Take Note Of Parades, architecture tours, and living‑history weekends echo the moments recalled in the show. Use the episode as a primer for deeper exploration — from Western heritage to architectural history. Tone matters: highlight feeling as much as fact when sharing the story with others. Call to Action & Coming Together Whether you’re a long‑time resident of the Central Highlands, a visitor drawn by the cowboy tradition, or someone tuning in for a meaningful story, Arizona Roundup invites you into the circle. Listen and engage: Tune in, share the episode, and invite a friend or family member to listen with you. Visit the place: Plan a trip to the Sharlot Hall Museum. Walk the campus and stand inside the Fremont House. Connect and contribute: Join upcoming events, volunteer, or partner with programs that preserve Arizona heritage. Live the spirit: Mentor, serve, build — show up with western courage and community in your daily life. Sharlot Hall Museum — Contact & Participation Address: 415 West Gurley Street, Prescott, AZ 86301 Phone: (928) 445‑3122 (Ext. 0 for Admissions) General Email: admissions@sharlothallmuseum.org Archives & Research: (928) 277‑2003 • archivesrequest@sharlothallmuseum.org Website: sharlothallmuseum.org
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Doc, the Earps, and the Art of the West: When Legends Come Home to Prescott
11/09/2025
Doc, the Earps, and the Art of the West: When Legends Come Home to Prescott
The latest Arizona Roundup from the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona, brings together three of the West’s most engaging voices—host Stuart Rosebrook, artist‑historian Bob Boze Bell, and painter‑storyteller Thom Ross—for a rollicking, reflective conversation about their new exhibit, “The Doctor Will See You Now: Bringing Doc and the Earps Home to Prescott.” The show celebrates the artistry, imagination, and enduring mythology of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the gunfight that became American legend. Ross opens the discussion by tracing his fascination with Western heroes back to childhood, inspired by Fess Parker’s Davy Crockett and the timeless allure of “the last stand.” For him—and for fellow “Western nuts” like historian Paul Hutton—these tales echo through human history, as ancient as Homer and as modern as Hollywood. Bell adds his own discovery story: his grandmother’s blunt verdict on a TV Wyatt Earp sparked a lifelong search for the truth behind the legend. Together, Ross and Bell show how the mythic West walks hand in hand with popular culture, from Davy Crockett to Saving Private Ryan, from King Arthur to Tombstone. Much of the program’s charm lies in its storytelling. Ross recalls a family road trip that detoured to Little Bighorn, the Alamo, and the O.K. Corral; Bell counters with memories of a father who never stopped for roadside history—fuel for a lifelong obsession. As Rosebrook observes, the heart of this story is a road trip, just like the real trek that brought the Earps and Doc Holliday from Las Vegas, New Mexico, to Prescott in 1879—an early Western road movie on buckboards and wagon roads. In the final act, the conversation turns to the most mythic moment of all—the walk down to the O.K. Corral. For Bell, Doc Holliday is “the linchpin,” turning a minor misdemeanor arrest into a legendary clash. For Ross, the walk down is a universal symbol of courage: the moment you face your fear. They liken the O.K. Corral to a pilgrimage path—shorter than the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem, but a walk of consequence all the same. Their artwork captures that timeless step into history—four figures moving toward fate, still alive in paint and memory. Things to Remember and Share The mythology of the West connects to universal human stories—courage, loss, redemption, and truth. The “walk down” is a literal and spiritual journey—your own daily call to face fear. Artists, filmmakers, and historians add new color to an old canvas with every retelling. Western legends endure because they speak to the human spirit’s longing to stand tall, fight fair, and live free. A Closing Word from the Roundup “The Doctor Will See You Now” is more than an exhibit—it’s a homecoming. Through humor, heart, and history, Bell, Ross, and Rosebrook remind us that the West isn’t behind us—it’s walking beside us, alive in stories and imagination. Visit the Exhibit Sharlot Hall Museum • Prescott, Arizona Special Event: November 13, 4:30–6:30 p.m. Web: https://www.sharlothallmuseum.org Hear More Arizona Stories Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook — celebrating the people, places, and passions that keep the West alive.
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Frontier Christmas and Fall Magic in Prescott: Arizona Roundup Celebrates the Season at Sharlot Hall Museum
11/04/2025
Frontier Christmas and Fall Magic in Prescott: Arizona Roundup Celebrates the Season at Sharlot Hall Museum
A Celebration of Fall, Community, and Christmas Spirit The latest episode of Arizona Roundup, hosted by historian Stuart Rosebrook, invites listeners to slow down and savor the beauty of the season at Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona. Joined by Bailey Cacciatore, the museum’s Curator of Education, the conversation unfolds like a warm walk through the museum’s historic campus—crisp leaves underfoot, children laughing, and luminarias glowing in the cool evening air. Together, Stuart and Bailey paint a vivid picture of Prescott’s fall transformation and the museum’s upcoming lineup of November and December events, including the much-anticipated Frontier Christmas on December 6th, an old-fashioned celebration that transports visitors back to Arizona’s territorial days. Prescott’s Living History and Holiday Charm From the kaleidoscope of fall colors on the museum grounds to the spirit of giving that defines its programs, Arizona Roundup captures the essence of Prescott as 'Everybody’s Hometown.' Bailey shares how students, families, and tour groups find wonder in the museum’s living history buildings and peaceful gardens. Even the new benches, donated by generous community members, invite quiet reflection among the roses and pines. As the holidays approach, the museum’s calendar is bursting with activity. Highlights include: • November 8: “Give Thanks” Living History Adventure • November 11: Veterans Day Parade • November 13: “The Doctor Will See You Now” Exhibit Opening • November 15: Native American Heritage Month Pop-Up Program • December 6: Frontier Christmas Each event invites visitors to step away from the modern rush and reconnect with community, history, and gratitude. Living History, Giving Thanks In keeping with the season, the museum is hosting a holiday food drive—guests who bring canned goods or non-perishable donations receive discounts at the gift shop. As Bailey reminds listeners, the museum’s mission is rooted in giving: 'We want to bring out the inner child in everyone.' For those who wish to give more deeply, the museum’s Giving Tuesday campaign offers opportunities to support education programs, living history, and preservation efforts. Memberships, donations, and even small purchases in the Bashford House gift shop all help sustain this mission. A Season of Story and Spirit The episode closes with a look ahead to Prescott Christmas Carol, a live 'old-time radio' play filled with humor and local charm, and a Victorian gift-wrapping workshop on December 13th. Then, as the new year begins, audiences can look forward to The Hossyompers on January 17th, a special theatrical fundraiser at the historic Elks Theatre recreating one of Sharlot Hall’s own 1907 productions. Stuart and Bailey’s friendly conversation reminds listeners that history isn’t confined to dusty exhibits—it’s alive in every shared story, handcrafted ornament, and cup of hot chocolate enjoyed together. Things to Remember and Share • Frontier Christmas, December 6th, is the perfect day to experience Prescott’s 'Christmas City' magic. • Explore the Living History Adventures and new art exhibits through November. • Support Giving Tuesday and help preserve Arizona’s history. • Become a member of Sharlot Hall Museum and enjoy free admission to events and programs year-round. A Thought to Take With You As the hosts suggest, the real gift of the season isn’t found in shopping lists or decorations—it’s found in moments of gratitude, community, and connection. Whether crunching leaves on a fall walk or sipping cider by candlelight, Sharlot Hall Museum invites everyone to rediscover the joy of slowing down and stepping back in time. For full details on upcoming events, visit SharlotHallMuseum.org — and plan your own Frontier Christmas adventure in Prescott, Arizona’s heart of history.
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Rediscovering the American West with Dr. Paul Hutton: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Undiscovered Country
10/24/2025
Rediscovering the American West with Dr. Paul Hutton: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Undiscovered Country
In one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking episodes of *Arizona Roundup*, host **Stuart Rosebrook** sits down with renowned historian **Dr. Paul Andrew Hutton**—a man who has spent a lifetime telling the story of the American West. Currently serving as the **Tate Chair of Western History** and **Interim Curator of the Buffalo Bill Museum** at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, Hutton joins the program to discuss his latest bestseller, *The Undiscovered Country: Triumph, Tragedy, and the Shaping of the American West*. This conversation—part history lesson, part life reflection—reminds listeners that the frontier story is far from over. It lives on in the American imagination, in the art of reinvention, and in the enduring quest to understand who we are as a people. A Historian on the Road From his early days teaching at the University of New Mexico to his current role in Cody, Dr. Hutton embodies the spirit of exploration he writes about. His new book—now in its fourth printing and on the *New York Times* bestseller list—connects deeply with readers because it weaves together adventure, scholarship, and the timeless human desire to find meaning in history. As Hutton told Rosebrook, moving from Albuquerque to Cody was like “going back in time.” His daily surroundings—the five museums housed within the Buffalo Bill Center of the West—immerse him in living history. Visitors, he notes, need at least two days to explore it all. “It’s magical,” he says, “and it still takes my breath away.” From Davy Crockett to Buffalo Bill Hutton’s *The Undiscovered Country* tells the sweeping saga of America’s westward expansion through seven larger-than-life figures: **Daniel Boone, Red Eagle, Davy Crockett, Mangas Coloradas, Kit Carson, Sitting Bull,** and **Buffalo Bill Cody**. Through their intertwined lives, Hutton captures both the triumph and tragedy of the American experiment—its soaring ideals and its painful costs. He explains that the book’s title comes from *Hamlet*: the “undiscovered country” that symbolizes both the mystery of death and the unknown journey ahead. For the pioneers, it meant stepping into a vast new land; for readers, it invites reflection on their own frontiers of discovery. Lessons from the Frontier Throughout the conversation, Rosebrook and Hutton explore themes that resonate far beyond history: the art of reinvention, the importance of teaching, and the enduring power of storytelling. Hutton admits that even after decades of writing, the hardest task is composing museum captions—“serious writing,” he laughs, “where every word counts.” His personal story—an 18-year-old Indiana boy driving west in a VW bus in 1968, dreaming of history—mirrors the very journeys he now writes about. “America,” he says, “has always been about reinvention. The West is where you can leave your past behind and start again.” Things to Remember, Share, and Take Note Of - **History isn’t just the past—it’s a mirror.** The stories of Boone, Crockett, and Sitting Bull reflect our ongoing search for identity and purpose. - **Reinvention is America’s secret strength.** From pioneers to modern entrepreneurs, the West reminds us we can always begin again. - **Museums are living classrooms.** Places like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the Sharlot Hall Museum preserve not just artifacts, but the heart of the American experience. - **Captions and storytelling matter.** The smallest details—one sentence, one story—can open entire worlds of understanding. Closing Thoughts: Finding Our Own Undiscovered Country As *Arizona Roundup* continues to celebrate the people and stories that define the West, this episode stands as a reminder that the frontier spirit is not a relic—it’s a roadmap. Whether in life, business, or community, we all stand at the edge of our own “undiscovered country,” faced with choices of courage, curiosity, and compassion. Dr. Paul Hutton’s journey—and his remarkable book—invite us to take that next step into the unknown, to rediscover what’s best in our history and ourselves. Learn More To experience the full conversation with Dr. Paul Hutton, listen to *Arizona Roundup* on your favorite podcast platform. Visit the **Sharlot Hall Museum** in Prescott, Arizona, to explore exhibits that keep the spirit of the West alive. Learn more at **sharlothallmuseum.org** and plan to attend upcoming events featuring Western historians, writers, and storytellers.
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Legends, Lawmen, and Laughter: When Billy the Kid and Doc Holliday Rode into Arizona Roundup
10/20/2025
Legends, Lawmen, and Laughter: When Billy the Kid and Doc Holliday Rode into Arizona Roundup
A Prescott Broadcast of Art, History, and Humor The Kid Who Started It All Bob Boze Bell’s lifelong passion for Western art began when he was nine years old—his first drawing was of none other than Billy the Kid, inspired by stories from his grandmother in the bootheel of New Mexico. “She told me we were related to outlaws,” he laughed. “That’ll light a fire in any young boy’s imagination.” Decades later, that spark became a calling. After a Christmas gift—The Saga of Billy the Kid—rekindled his fascination, Bell realized, “I was born to do this.” From that epiphany came his first book, The Illustrated Life and Times of Billy the Kid, and ultimately, a lifetime interpreting the West’s colorful contradictions through pen and paint. From Cave Creek to the Museum Walls Today, Bob’s work hangs proudly in two Arizona exhibitions. At Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, his collaboration with artists Tom Ross and Buckeye Blake is titled The Resurrection of Billy the Kid—a renegade show as unconventional as its subject. “It’s in a hallway,” Bob said, laughing, “which gives it just the right touch of outlaw mischief.” From Blake’s haunting sculpture of the slain Kid to Ross’s whimsical reinterpretations and Bell’s classic illustrations, the exhibit captures both the myth and the man. “It’s history, it’s humor, and it’s humanity,” Bell noted. “You walk away saying, ‘Ye gods—look at who we are.’” Prescott’s Turn: Bringing Doc Home Meanwhile, at Sharlot Hall Museum, a new show titled Bringing Doc and the Earps Home to Prescott explores another side of Western lore. Co-created by Bob Boze Bell and Tom Ross, the exhibit reimagines Doc Holliday and Wyatt Earp’s brief but significant time in Prescott before their fateful journey to Tombstone. Through vivid art and newly uncovered research—thanks to local historian Brad Courtney—the show brings to life Doc’s time boarding with Arizona’s acting governor, his connection to Big Nose Kate, and the early echoes of the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. “History is like a ping-pong ball—it just keeps clanging back and forth between people, places, and generations,” Bell mused. Family Names, Frontier Spirits, and Rock ’n’ Roll Drums The episode sparkles with humor and heart. Between stories of art and ancestry, Bell riffs on family nicknames, outlaw relatives, and his rock ’n’ roll detours. “I got distracted by girls and drums,” he admitted, “but Billy the Kid never really left me.” Rosebrook and Bell share an easy camaraderie, weaving in anecdotes about Western heroes, museums, and the enduring allure of names like Wyatt, Doc, and Geronimo. “They just resonate,” said Rosebrook, “they ring forward through time.” Things to Remember • Art tells stories that history books can’t. Bell’s paintings and Ross’s interpretations turn myths into mirrors of modern identity. • The West wasn’t just wild—it was deeply human. Behind the gunfights and legends were friendships, regrets, and moments of grace. • Museums keep the story alive. Both Scottsdale’s Western Spirit and Prescott’s Sharlot Hall Museum remind us that our past is worth seeing, hearing, and reimagining. Take Note and Share Tell someone about Billy the Kid’s unlikely artistic afterlife—or about Doc Holliday’s tearful moment of remorse, seldom told in the movies. Visit the exhibits if you can, or explore True West Magazine to dive deeper into the stories that shaped the Southwest. Things to Think About Every legend is a mirror. What do these stories reveal about us—our fascination with heroes, our tolerance for rebels, and our hunger for meaning in a rough-edged world? As Rosebrook closed the program, he left listeners with this truth: “There’s always something new to learn about the past—and something in the past to teach us how to live today.”
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Portraits of Fear — Prescott’s Haunted Past Comes Alive at Sharlot Hall Museum
10/09/2025
Portraits of Fear — Prescott’s Haunted Past Comes Alive at Sharlot Hall Museum
A Journey Through Ghosts, History, and the Art of Storytelling Broadcast from the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, Arizona Roundup host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes the talented Jody Drake and her cast of performers—Peg Millett, Sherry Graham, Pam, Suzanne, and others—for a spirited preview of Portraits of Fear: A Journey Through Prescott's Haunted Past. This unique production revives an old local tradition, combining ghost tales, folklore, and real history into an evening of storytelling that is both spine-tingling and heartwarming. The Return of the Ghost Walk Tradition As Jody Drake recalls, it all began years ago when the Prescott Center for the Arts and the West Yavapai Guidance Clinic launched the first 'Ghost Walk' as a fundraiser at Sharlot Hall. What started as spooky fun evolved into a celebration of Prescott’s storytelling heritage. The newest incarnation, Portraits of Fear, revisits that legacy with the creative flair of local women who blend fact and folklore—giving voices to historic figures and restless spirits alike. Ghosts, Friendship, and Frontier Spirit What truly animates the program is the camaraderie of the cast. Peg Millett brings her musical flair and love of local lore, Sherry Graham adds humor and drama with tales of 'a very bad man,' and Pam, ever the ranch woman, explores the loneliness and resilience of pioneer mothers. Together they remind listeners that storytelling is not merely about ghosts—it’s about connection, courage, and keeping heritage alive. The Art of Storytelling Lives On Throughout the conversation, Stuart and Jody emphasize that storytelling is not acting—it’s invoking every sense, sparking imagination, and sharing something essential about what it means to be human. Portraits of Fear is part of Sharlot Hall Museum’s Twilight Tales series, with performances scheduled for October 24–25 at 4:30 PM. Tickets are available at sharlothallmuseum.org. Things to Remember, Share, and Take Note Of • Stories keep communities alive. Prescott’s legends may give you chills, but they also warm the heart. • History is best remembered through human voices. Facts fade; stories endure. • Everyone has a story that matters. The storytellers remind us that sharing our own past can connect generations. • Fear and wonder coexist. Mystical experiences, whether ghostly or merely mysterious, teach us curiosity and humility. Building Community Through Storytelling Programs like Portraits of Fear show how a museum can be more than an archive—it can be a living, breathing campfire where people gather to share memories. Every town, every business, and every community organization could host similar evenings: heritage nights, storytelling circles, or 'Twilight Tales' that bring people together across generations. Whether around a fire, in a library, or through a podcast, such gatherings build bonds stronger than time. A Grateful Farewell Arizona Roundup closes with gratitude—to the cast of Portraits of Fear, to the Sharlot Hall Museum, and to the listeners who keep the spirit of the West alive. As Stuart reminds us, 'Be ready for mystical experiences. When you open yourself to the stories of others, you just might find your own.' Tickets & Information: Visit www.sharlothallmuseum.org for show details. October 24–25 • Gates open at 4:30 PM • $25 admission
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Rain, Roots, and Radiance: A Prescott Story of Membership, Memory, and the Magic of Sharlot Hall Museum
10/05/2025
Rain, Roots, and Radiance: A Prescott Story of Membership, Memory, and the Magic of Sharlot Hall Museum
Prescott mornings have a way of greeting you with sunlight and history — and in this latest episode of Arizona Roundup, host Stuart Rosebrook welcomes Sally Jackson, Director of Development and Marketing at Sharlot Hall Museum, for a delightful and informative conversation that captures the heart of the museum’s mission: to preserve, participate, and pass on the living heritage of Arizona. After a few days of much-needed rain (perhaps too much too quickly, as Sally admits with a chuckle), the gardens of Sharlot Hall have sprung to life again — and so has the museum’s calendar. The two discuss the rhythm of desert living — “feast or famine,” as Stuart puts it — and how this resilience mirrors the museum’s work: thriving in every season, welcoming visitors year-round, and constantly cultivating new ways to connect people to Arizona’s story. Membership: A Gateway to 13,000 Museums Sally unveils one of the best-kept secrets in cultural membership: the museum’s Friends and Family Membership, which not only supports Prescott’s beloved state museum but also grants free access to over 13,000 museums across North America through the North American Reciprocal Museum Association (NARM). For just $100, a family can belong to a network that spans the continent — a “passport to culture,” as Stuart calls it. Sally shares real-life examples: one couple used their membership the very next week to visit museums in Colorado, while another purchased one to share with their children out of state. “It’s one of those rare memberships,” she says, “that keeps giving back — to you and to history itself.” Autumn Adventures and Haunted Tales From living history days with blacksmiths and ranch cooks to pop-up art programs and the annual “Twilight Tales” ghost story nights, this fall at Sharlot Hall promises something for everyone. The campus hums with activity: workshops, lectures, crafts, and performances that bring Arizona’s frontier past vividly to life. One upcoming highlight is “Portraits of Fear: A Journey Through Prescott’s Haunted Past,” where visitors meet the spirits of miners, townsfolk, and heroes whose stories linger in the desert air. As Sally says with a grin, “It’s historically accurate — and hauntingly fun.” Doc Holliday Returns to Town History buffs will be thrilled to hear about the November exhibit “The Doctor Will See You Now: Bringing Doc and the Herbs Home to Prescott,” curated by Western icons Bob Boze Bell and Tom Ross. Complemented by historian Brad Courtney’s lecture on Doc Holliday and Big Nose Kate, it’s an event that celebrates Prescott’s Wild West heritage — complete with art, storytelling, and a plaque marking where Doc once lived. As Stuart notes, “Only in Prescott can you walk where Doc Holliday did, see the art inspired by him, and then step into a Victorian gift shop for Christmas shopping all in one day.” Prescott: Christmas City and Living Legacy As the city of Prescott transforms into Arizona’s official “Christmas City,” the Sharlot Hall campus becomes a glowing wonderland — with carolers, cider, cookies, Father Christmas, and more than a thousand visitors strolling through the luminaria-lit grounds. Families who have come for generations share laughter, stories, and a sense of belonging that transcends time. The tradition continues with “A Prescott Christmas Carol,” the old-time radio show that fills the air with laughter and nostalgia — and sells out quickly each year. “It’s Dickens with a Prescott twist,” Sally laughs. Echoes of Time: Recreating Sharlot Hall’s 1907 Fundraiser The episode crescendos with an exciting announcement: on January 17, Sharlot Hall Museum will recreate Sharlot’s 1907 fundraiser at the historic Elks Theatre — a poetic and musical evening that helped launch the museum itself. Under the direction of Jodi Drake, who portrays Sharlot in living history performances, the show titled “Evening Echoes of Time” promises to be both a fundraiser and a time machine. Guests are encouraged to don Victorian attire and join Prescott’s social scene, circa 1907. “This isn’t nostalgia,” Stuart remarks. “It’s living memory — a community keeping faith with its founders.”
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Serving Up Hope: How Prescott’s Community Cupboard Feeds Body and Spirit
09/27/2025
Serving Up Hope: How Prescott’s Community Cupboard Feeds Body and Spirit
**Arizona Roundup** host Stuart Rosebrook welcomed Bud Heitman, board chairperson of the Prescott Community Cupboard Food Bank, to the Sharlot Hall Museum for a conversation that reminded listeners that generosity isn’t just a holiday tradition—it’s a way of life in Arizona. From Minnesota Winters to Arizona Sunshine Bud’s journey to Prescott spanned Minnesota winters, Cajun kitchens in Louisiana, the neon lights of Las Vegas, and the bustle of Southern California. By 2020, he and his wife settled in Prescott, where he quickly found a calling. Retirement wasn’t going to slow him down—especially once his wife hinted he “better find something to do.” Volunteering became his new career path, and food banking became his mission. Feeding Neighbors, Not Statistics The Prescott Community Cupboard Food Bank may have started in a garage in 1973, but today it feeds more than 600 people each week—including nearly 3,000 children a month. That need might surprise folks who think of Prescott as comfortable cowboy country, but Heitman says food insecurity is real here, especially among the “working poor”—families with jobs who still can’t make ends meet. Bud and Stuart remind listeners, Prescott has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors—going back to the days when Boy Scouts collected food on the plaza during Christmas tidings. That spirit is alive today, and every can of soup, every bag of groceries, and every volunteer hour keeps it strong. So saddle up, Prescott. Whether you drop off a bag of pasta, hand a check to the Cupboard, or roll up your sleeves to volunteer, you’re not just feeding a family—you’re feeding hope. And that’s the kind of roundup worth joining.
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Your Story Matters: Campfires, Kazoos, and the Craft of Family History
09/22/2025
Your Story Matters: Campfires, Kazoos, and the Craft of Family History
Arizona Roundup, hosted by Stuart Rosebrook from the Sharlot Hall Museum, welcomes longtime friend and natural-born storyteller Tim Magill for a lively, memory-rich tour through the power of personal stories. From Ohio matriarchs who raised families on grit and grace to Arizona’s own Sharlot Hall blazing a trail in public life, the episode celebrates the people who turned ordinary days into the raw material of history—and why those stories still shape us. Stuart opens with a tribute to strong women in his own lineage and at the Museum—especially Sharlot Hall, Arizona’s first woman to hold a paid territorial/state-level position—before steering the conversation to Tim’s storytelling work at the Elks Theatre’s “Stories That Matter.” Think *The Moth*, but with Prescott flavor: true stories, as remembered by the teller, honed through workshops that teach structure, arc, and voice. Tim admits he was self-conscious at first (“Who wants to hear my story?”). But like many of us, he discovered that honest, well-shaped moments—veterans’ memories, awkward camp-counselor mishaps, a family recipe, even a rainstorm that quits mid-shower—carry surprising power. When framed with a beginning, turning point, and landing, those small scenes become the way we pass wisdom forward. The episode also honors a larger “why” behind storytelling. Stuart recalls a professor who assigned students to write their own family histories so they could understand what it truly took for them to sit in that classroom. The lesson stuck: real history isn’t just headlines and dates; it’s everyday life—favorite cookies, holiday pies, the time the camp director pulled out a kazoo and gave every kid permission to be brave and a little goofy.
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A Celebration of Heritage: The Prescott Indian Art Market Returns
09/15/2025
A Celebration of Heritage: The Prescott Indian Art Market Returns
The latest episode of Arizona Roundup with Stuart Rosebrook, recorded at the Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott, offers an engrossing preview of one of Arizona’s most anticipated cultural events: the 27th Annual Prescott Indian Art Market (PIAM). Joined by Dr. Paul Fees, Deputy Director of Programs at Sharlot Hall, Stuart takes listeners inside the history, artistry, and spirit that make this gathering far more than a simple market—it’s a living celebration of Native creativity, tradition, and community. A Market Rooted in Excellence Founded nearly three decades ago, PIAM has grown into one of the most respected Indian art markets in the Western United States. Unlike many festivals, this is a juried show, meaning every participating artist is carefully selected by a panel of award-winning Native artisans. The result is a collection of approximately 75–80 artists, each presenting authentic, high-quality work—from jewelry and pottery to weaving, glassblowing, and photography. Listeners learn that this event is not just about sales; it’s about relationships. Attendees have the rare chance to meet artists face-to-face, hear their stories, and witness live demonstrations of their craft. From Navajo weaving to Hopi basketry, visitors see cultural traditions passed down for generations, alive and evolving in real time.
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Arizona Roundup with Karen Fann: A Life of Building, Leading, and Giving Back
09/01/2025
Arizona Roundup with Karen Fann: A Life of Building, Leading, and Giving Back
On a warm summer afternoon at the Sharlot Hall Museum, Arizona Roundup host Stuart Rosebrook welcomed a woman whose name has become synonymous with both leadership and perseverance in Arizona: Karen Fann. As the former president of the Arizona Senate—the second woman in state history to hold that role—and a trailblazing businesswoman, Karen’s story is one of grit, resilience, and service. From Small-Town Roots to Big Horizons Karen moved to Prescott in 1958, when the population was barely 6,000 and Prescott Valley was still known as Jackass Flat. Her father, a Navy veteran, and her great uncle, Sid Webb, helped shape the community through contracting and civic involvement. Karen recalled a childhood where “everybody knew everybody”—and where, she joked, “you couldn’t ditch school or church because word would get back home before you did.” Though her path took her beyond Prescott for a time—working for airlines in Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Phoenix—her heart always pulled her home. That homecoming would eventually lead her into entrepreneurship, public service, and statewide leadership.
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Community, Roots, and the Spirit of Prescott: A Conversation with Cheryl Rolland on Arizona Roundup
08/25/2025
Community, Roots, and the Spirit of Prescott: A Conversation with Cheryl Rolland on Arizona Roundup
The latest episode of Arizona Roundup, hosted by Stuart Rosebrook at the Sharlot Hall Museum, welcomed Cheryl Rolland, Vice President and Branch Manager of Pinnacle Bank’s downtown Prescott branch. What followed was a lively and engaging conversation that blended hometown storytelling, community pride, and a reminder of why Prescott is one of Arizona’s true gems. A Native Arizonan with Deep Roots Cheryl, an Arizona native, shared her journey from childhood in the White Mountains near Show Low and St. Johns to her senior year move to Prescott Valley—a relocation she wasn’t exactly thrilled about at the time. Missing her senior trip felt like a teenage tragedy, but the story came full circle as she reflected with gratitude on how Prescott became her home and community. Her tale blessings .captured the spirit of resilience and how unexpected detours often become defining
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