Shows
The Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandTravis Bratten and the 2003 Deep Lake FireIn this episode, Jerred Metz and Forest Fighter Travis Bratten discuss the 2003 Deep Lake Fire. Travis shares firsthand experiences battling the wildfire, the challenges of the rugged terrain, and the dramatic helicopter rescue of campers. The episode weaves together the story of Earl Durand, local history, wildfire response, and the enduring spirit of the region."Extremely rugged, extremely tough to access. You have to be fit.”Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-2218 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandDon MacKay on writing the Play based on The Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandIn this episode, Actor and playwright Don MacKay joins Jerred Metz to discuss adapting "The Last 11 Days of Earl Durand" for the stage. Don shares how the story resonated with his own life and the creative choices behind bringing this American legend to theater."I feel like these kinds of stories…need to be told because people need to understand people on the other side. I always try to feel like I wanna play those characters, not as villains, but as to try to understand them and to have compassion."Order th...
2025-12-2217 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandDave Wetzel on the Extraordinary Letter Durand Wrote to Sheriff Frank BlackburnIn this episode, Jerred Metz and historian Dave Wetzel discuss the dramatic life and death of Earl Durand, an outlaw whose story blurs the line between legend and reality. Through analysis of Durand’s final letter and actions, they explore themes of rebellion, Western myth, and the making of an American antihero."Earl Durand did have a legend that followed him…the story is important."Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-2215 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandNancy Curtis and the publishing of The Last Eleven Days of Earl Durand BookIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with publisher Nancy Curtis about her decision to publish his book The Last Eleven Days of Earl Durand. They discuss why regional crime stories matter, how Durand’s tale reflects a changing West, and the impact of community and technology on the story’s outcome."It seems to me that what we're seeing here is a transition time in the history of Wyoming in particular... All of a sudden we had radios and national attention showing up in Wyoming, telling a story that was spel...
2025-12-1810 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandThe Awful “Legend of Earl Durand” MovieIn this episode, Jerred Metz explores the story behind the 1974 film "The Legend of Earl Durand." With anecdotes about the cast, local legends, and the experience of teaching the story in a university course, this episode offers a candid look at the intersection of history, myth, and cinema in the tale of Earl Durand. Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-1806 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandBrandi Wright and The Homesteader Museum’s Durand artifactsIn this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Brandi Wright, director of the Homesteader Museum in Powell, Wyoming, about artifacts related to Earl Durand. They discuss the significance of items like a bullet-grazed hat, a jail cell, and a rifle, as well as the museum’s role in preserving local history and community memory. Brandi highlights how the museum presents facts and lets visitors interpret the story, reflecting on the impact of history on the community."We are a history museum so we can historically approach the events. Primary sources such as newspapers reportings, and say, th...
2025-12-1514 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandWhat Happened right after Durand’s DeathIn this episode, Jerred Metz explores the aftermath of Earl Durand’s dramatic end, focusing on the unusual public response to his death. The story covers the creation of a death mask, the community’s involvement in his burial, and the almost carnival-like atmosphere that surrounded his funeral. Listeners hear firsthand accounts from the undertaker and learn about the crowds that gathered to view Durand’s body, the emotional reactions of the townspeople, and the challenges faced by the family. The episode concludes with a heartfelt eulogy written by Durand’s sister, reflecting on his chara...
2025-12-1515 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandFive Times Earl Durand Said he would DieIn this episode, Jerred Metz explores the final days of Earl Durand, a man who knew his fate was sealed. Through five chilling moments, hear how Earl repeatedly predicted his own death as he evaded law enforcement, took hostages, and made his last stand. Discover the dramatic true story of an outlaw's final journey, told through firsthand accounts and historical detail. Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-1107 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandHonorable Park Counteans: Bill Garlow and Virginia TurnerIn this episode, Jerred Metz highlights two honorable Park County citizens, Virginia Turner and Bill Garlow. Together, their stories reveal the enduring spirit of courage and compassion that defines Wyoming’s history.Virginia Turner showed extraordinary courage during Earl Durand’s escape and hostage standoff, staying calm, aiding the wounded, and supporting the Durand family through chaos and loss. Bill Garlow, grandson of Buffalo Bill Cody, carried his family’s legacy of bravery from leading a local manhunt for Durand to sacrificing for his men in World War II’s Battle of...
2025-12-1115 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandCathy Blake on visual storytelling through Vic Carrabotta’s ArtIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Cathy Blake and explores the making of a graphic novel about Earl Durand, blending history and art. The discussion includes how visual storytelling brings new life and emotion to Durand’s story, highlighting the creative process and unique artistic choices that make the graphic novel stand out."The great thing about graphic novels is they enhance the story through visuals, and add a better dimension to the story."Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-0817 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandElizabeth Suddeth and Vic Carrabotta’s IllustrationsIn this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Elizabeth Suddeth, Associate Dean for Special Collections at the University of South Carolina. They discuss the library’s rare comic book acquisitions, the legacy of comic artist Vic Carrabotta, and the creation of a graphic novel about Earl Durand. The episode highlights the importance of preserving comic history and the unique stories behind the collections."It was so exciting because we were actually able to put on a little exhibit and also to have Vic on campus to speak."...
2025-12-0813 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandMichael Weisenberg and the Graphic Novel art exhibit for Vic CarrabottaIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Michael Weisenberg about curating an exhibit on comic artist Vic Carrabotta at the University of South Carolina. Discover Vic’s journey from Marvel comics to graphic novels, and learn why preserving comic book history matters."I'd like to think that rare comic books are among the rare books of the future, and if we don't preserve them now, who else will?"Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-12-0815 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandLynnie Fass and “The Ballad of Earl Durand” on WBAI Radio, New YorkIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Lynnie Fass about her journey into folk music and activism, inspired by her husband, late-night radio host Bob Fass. Through stories about the song "The Ballad of Earl Durand," Lynnie discusses how music and radio shaped their views on protest, community, and standing up to injustice. The episode also highlights Bob Fass’s legacy as a pioneering broadcaster who gave a voice to dissent and preserved the spirit of resistance."If it just gives one person out there comfort to know that they're not alone, sitting in th...
2025-12-0113 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandMel Stonehouse and His Role on Sheriff Blackburn’s Posse (with Rick Stonehouse)In this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Rick Stonehouse, son of Mel Stonehouse, about the legendary figure Earl Durand and the culture of storytelling in Wyoming. Rick shares memories of his father’s colorful tales, the realities behind the myths of the American West, and the ethical code of hunters and outfitters. The conversation explores how local history, personal experience, and community values shape the stories passed down through generations, offering a candid look at the intersection of myth and reality in Western American life.“Here's a story that most wouldn't believe. It included all the...
2025-12-0124 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandThe Strange Story of the Roving Deputy Sheriff’s BadgeIn this episode, Jerred Metz discusses the true story behind Earl Durand and the mysterious journey of a deputy sheriff’s badge. Through a series of uncanny coincidences, the badge weaves its way through lawmen, outlaws, and pivotal moments in a dramatic manhunt. Join us as we explore how fact can be stranger than fiction, and how a simple symbol of authority became central to a tale of pursuit, identity, and fate in the American West. Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-11-2708 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandRob Thomas and the Deep Lake LandslideIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Dr. Rob Thomas, a geology professor at the University of Montana. They discuss the massive Deep Lake landslide in Wyoming. Dr. Thomas explains its geological significance, comparing its scale to other major North American slides, and describes how the landscape was shaped by glacial activity and catastrophic rock movement. Dr. Thomas also shares insights into the connection between the landslide, local history, and the story of Earl Durand. "What we can say for certain is that it (Deep Lake landslide) happened after the glacial ice retreated because t...
2025-11-2415 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandBrian Timmer and his Earl Durand MuralIn this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Artist Brian Timmer about the creation of his mural depicting Earl Durand. The conversation covers Brian’s artistic journey, the inspiration and challenges behind the mural, and the impact of Durand’s story on the community. The episode also touches on the collaborative process behind a graphic novel about Durand and the importance of art in preserving local history."The mural almost appeared out of nowhere to a lot of people because it stops you in your tracks..it's a statement.”Order the book at htt...
2025-11-2437 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandDave Reetz and the Media of 1939In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Dave Reetz about the dramatic last eleven days of Earl Durand, and how local and national media (newspapers, radio, newsreels, and even Hollywood) shaped public perception of Durand’s story, often sensationalizing events for headlines. They reflect on the impact of these events on the local community, the role of technology like telephones and radio in spreading news, and how Durand’s story became part of American folklore, even inspiring movies. The conversation also highlights personal connections to the people involved and the lasting legacy of the events in local memory.
2025-11-1724 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandHonorable Park Counteans: Milward Simpson (with Milward Simpson)In this episode, Jerred Metz talks with Milward Simpson about his grandfather, Milward Simpson and his family’s role in the dramatic events surrounding Earl Durand’s last days in Wyoming. Through stories and reflections, the conversation highlights the Simpson family’s leadership, community values, and lasting impact on Wyoming’s history and culture."It was part of the mysterious, magical lore of the Simpson family that captivated all of us when we were young and still does today.” - Milward SimpsonOrder the book at https://highplainsp...
2025-11-1717 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandEarl Durand’s PersonalityIn this episode, Jerred Metz discusses the personality of Earl Durand. He was a mountain man. Earl was a sharpshooter. And he was a prankster. His legendarysense of humor comes as a surprise. In this episode, we hear firsthandstories from friends and locals about Durand’s memorable pranks, his uncanny marksmanship, and the lighter side of the man who spent his lastdays as an outlaw.Order the book at https://highplainspress.com/durand.html
2025-11-1310 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandThe Legacy of Earl DurandIn this episode, Author and Podcast Host Jerred Metz introduces the podcast and explores the incredible true story of Earl Durand, a well-respected member of his Wyoming community whose life took a dramatic and tragic turn in 1939. Through firsthand accounts, historical research, and rare recordings, Jerred unravels the events that led to Durand’s infamous last 11 days, including jailbreaks, a manhunt, and a shocking bank robbery. Join us as we hear from those who knew him, examine the community’s response, and reflect on how one man’s choices changed a town forever. Ord...
2025-11-0916 minThe Last Eleven Days of Earl DurandDean Johnson and a Life in the WildernessIn this episode, Jerred Metz interviews Dean Johnson about his life in Wyoming’s rugged wilderness and that connection to Earl Durand. Dean shares stories of Durand’s outlaw reputation, his acts of generosity, and the dramatic events at Deep Lake. The episode offers a glimpse into the challenges and traditions of the American West."Earl Durand was a legend. I think the reason it's important to me is that I think he was mistreated. He was forced into doing what happened to him when he got thrown into jail. He was just out ther...
2025-11-0925 min
That Doesn't Happen Every DayWhen you skip school and shoot a bank robberSend us a textIn 1939, Earl Durand went on a rampage across North Western Wyoming that came to a violent end when he tried to rob the bank in Powell. Thanks to Jerred Metz for appearing on the show. Please check out his book "The Last Eleven Days of Earl Durand."Thanks to Mark Junge for letting me use his recording of Tipton Cox. That recording along with many other recordings pertinent to Wyoming history can be accessed free in The Wyoming State Archives Oral History Data Base. Please check them out.
2022-08-3009 min
LibraryVoicesSCJerred Metz - Episode 87Dr. Curtis Rogers interviews author, Jerred Metz. Jerred has had many careers beginning with English professor and returning to it after two and a half decades in 2002. He taught creative writing at the University of Minnesota, Webster College in St. Louis, and Coker University in Hartsville, South Carolina. He is the author of six poetry books and six prose books and his latest book is Bellicourt Tunnel: The crowning battle of the Great War. You can learn more about Jerred and his writing at his website, jerredmetz.com.
2019-07-0332 min