Way Out West | Stories of the American West: Cowboy Tales & Western Lore

Women Of The West Episodes

The frontier wasn’t just built by cowboys — it was shaped by the women who rode, worked, and persevered beside them. Women of the West honors the pioneers, sharpshooters, ranchers, and homemakers who carved their own place in Western history and continue to inspire today.
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Feb. 11, 2026

Fannie Sperry Steele: Skill That Couldn’t Be Denied

Before rodeo was a sport, bronc riding was a test of usefulness. No scorecards. No exceptions. Just a saddle, a gate, and a horse that would expose every mistake you made. In this episode of Way Out West, we tell the story of Fannie Sperry Steele, a Montana horsewoman whose skill in the saddle was so undeniable that even a world built for men had to take notice. Raised in ranch country and hardened by real work, she entered the 1912 World’s Championship Bronc Riding Contest under the same rules...
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Nov. 5, 2025

Lucille Mulhall: America’s First Cowgirl

Long before rodeo queens and arena spotlights, there was Lucille Mulhall. The Oklahoma ranch girl who could rope circles around any cowboy in the West. From dusty cattle roundups to the bright lights of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, Lucille redefined what it meant to be a woman on horseback. This episode of Way Out West takes a ride through her story of grit, glory, and the birth of the American cowgirl. Transcript: For a full transcript of this episode, click on "Transcript" Your Turn! Shar...
51
July 8, 2025

Love and Legend: The Story of Annie Oakley

Saddle up for a journey through the wild heart of the American West as we explore the remarkable life and love story of Annie Oakley. In this episode of Way Out West, go beyond the legend to discover the grit, grace, and romance that made Annie Oakley a true icon. From her humble beginnings to her record-breaking sharpshooting and the enduring partnership with Frank Butler that captured hearts across the frontier, this tale is filled with inspiration, courage, and a touch of cowboy romance. Whe...