Buffalo Bill…101 Ranch…Tim McCoy. The popular Wild West shows of the early 20th century defined America's western genre for more than 40 years.
Original lithographs in Ken Harck's personal Wild West collection capture the colorful spirit of these wooly, rodeo-style revues.
It all began in 1905 when the Miller Brothers transformed their financially ailing -- but massive -- 101,000 acre working ranch into a popular entertainment spectacle. A slice of pure Americana, Wild West shows like the 101 Ranch cast every imaginable character from Old West legends. Rollicking performers like Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley, Pawnee Bill and W.F. Cody soon became the pop icons of the era.
Music courtesy of KG & The Ranger. Check out more of their classic cowboy tunes at www.kgandtheranger.com.
The Freaky Circus Guy documentary is directed by Jane Burek. All photos on this page and website are either stills from the documentary or were taken by director Jane Burek.
