Wild West Podcast
Welcome to the Wild West podcast, where fact and legend merge. We present the true accounts of individuals who settled in towns built out of hunger for money, regulated by fast guns, who walked on both sides of the law, patrolling, investing in, and regulating the brothels, saloons, and gambling houses. These are stories of the men who made the history of the Old West come alive - bringing with them the birth of legends, brought to order by a six-gun and laid to rest with their boots on. Join us as we take you back in history to the legends of the Wild West.
Wild West Podcast
Frontier Innovation and the Remarkable Story of Dr. Simpson "The Cowboy Dentist"
Have you ever wondered how a refined gentleman could thrive in the wild, rugged landscape of the Old West? Join us as we uncover the extraordinary saga of Dr. Oscar H. Simpson, the daring dentist who swapped his silk top hat for a cowboy hat in Dodge City, Kansas. Known as the Mayo of Dentistry, Dr. Simpson's journey is a fascinating tale of resilience and ingenuity. From facing skepticism and ridicule in the notorious Long Branch Saloon to pioneering dental techniques that drew national acclaim, Simpson's story is a testament to courage and innovation. Discover how this stalwart professional not only survived but thrived, leaving an indelible mark on his community and beyond.
Embark on a journey through Dr. Simpson's groundbreaking career, where his trailblazing methods redefined dentistry in the American West. With a knack for efficiency, he could perform an astonishing number of root canals in a single day, earning him a reputation that transcended Kansas borders. Despite the controversies, his contributions were recognized even by the US Supreme Court. Beyond the dental chair, where did his passions lead? Into the world of dairy farming, showcasing a versatility that truly set him apart. Tune in for an episode brimming with the spirit of the Old West and the remarkable exploits of a true pioneer.
While many celebrated professionals have flocked to bustling metropolises, a few remarkable individuals have emerged from less conventional backgrounds. Take, for instance, the Mayo Brothers. Hailing from a quaint town in Minnesota, their names resonate among the world's elite surgeons. Similarly, the Mayo of Dentistry title is rightfully given to an extraordinary dentist from Dodge City, kansas, dr Oscar H Simpson. Beyond his exceptional dental skills, dr Simpson's journey is a tapestry of compelling stories that underscore his unique blend of talent and tenacity. Join Wild West Podcast as we unravel the fascinating life of a man whose adventures transformed him from a charming frontier dandy into a beloved cowboy dentist of Dodge City, kansas. Portions of this transcript are based on the original story by Heine Schmidt. No High Hat for Front Street. Dr Simpson's eye-opening journey began the moment he set foot in Dodge City. Back in his hometown of Warrensburg, a nickel felt as substantial as a car wheel. But the realities of the West were strikingly different when he packed up his trunk and hired a drayman. He was taken aback to pay 15 cents for just six short blocks. Arriving in Dodge City, the distance from the railway station to his new lodging was a mere 250 feet. He handed the local drayman a crisp $5 bill and watched as a man returned four shiny silver dollars in change. Confused, simpson hesitated, thinking perhaps there had been a mix-up. I gave you a five, right? He asked carefully. The drayman chuckled, assuring him yep, that was indeed a five-dollar note. You don't charge just a dollar to haul one trunk this far, do you? Oh yes, we do, replied the drayman with a grin. Everything's pricier out here. Horse feed, sky high Freight rates through the roof. A five-cent cigar will set you back a quarter and a ten-cent tablet will cost you two bits. You'll need to adjust your prices if you want to stick around. This exchange was merely the beginning of Simpson's education in western economics and the wayward means of the citizens of Dodge City.
Speaker 1:On a grimy, dusty morning in the late 1870s, the people of Front Street woke up. After a night of lively celebrations, they looked out in utter disbelief and shock at a sight that had never before dared to enter their community of good-natured folks in cowboy hats and sturdy boots. In front of them they saw a tall, broad-shouldered man wearing a black broadcloth, cutaway coat, trousers with pinstripes, a crisp boiled shirt, a flowing bow tie, kid gloves and on his head a symbol of a newcomer. This high silk top hat was forbidden and looked down upon in the rugged, practical world of the Old West With eager anticipation. The onlookers held their breath as they observed his slow progression from one store to the next. He paused briefly at each entrance, casting anxious and furtive glances inside. The sights that met his eyes were unfamiliar and bewildering. Clearly he was far from his usual surroundings, a disoriented stranger in a foreign place. As he approached the intersection of Second Avenue, a chorus of mocking taunts and jeers greeted him from the group of idlers, but he paid them no mind. Crossing the railway tracks, he made his way up into the grand lobby of the Great Western Hotel, where he promptly checked in and secured a room.
Speaker 1:The story of the strange young man and the high-sealed cat spread like wildfire throughout Front Street. It was the one topic of discussion at the bars in the Long Branch and Alhambra saloons. All agreed that this sassy young stranger should never be allowed to walk down the street again wearing his high-sealed hat without being challenged at every step. The regulars of Front Street didn't pay much attention to the stranger's identity, but they couldn't help but notice his distinguished high-seal cat. However, it's worth noting that the man in question was actually Dr OH Simpson, a dentist from Hannibal, missouri, and a distant relative of Jess Chisholm, the trailblazer of the famous cattle trail that bears his name. This revelation sparked a growing curiosity among the townspeople about the man in the high-sill cat. The next day, dr Samuel Galland, proprietor of the Great Western Hotel, approached the unidentified individual and offered him a friendly warning. Dr Galland advised the man to avoid strolling down Front Street while sporting his tall hat, expressing concern that it could make him a target. He cautioned that the hat might attract unwelcome attention and even become the focus of target practice. Simpson replied I'm an American citizen and I can wear any kind of hat I like, anywhere. Galland replied Anywhere, but on Front Street in Dodge City, not there.
Speaker 1:A little later, the same morning, simpson sallied forth with a high silk decker on his head To show his contempt for the lawless element that ruled supreme in this section of the city. He boldly walked into the Long Branch Saloon where he almost caused a riot. The barkeeper, however, asked him what kind of poison do you want? Simpson replied Thank you, I don't drink liquor, I'm an ardent dry. This was the straw that broke the camel's back. One red-nosed barfly shouted Give him some milk. He ain't been weaned yet.
Speaker 1:Among the customers at the bar was a Spaniard known to the game fraternity as the Black Warrior. The Warrior, to show his feelings in the matter, snatched the hat off Simpson's head and tossed it out the door, saying no one but a damn sissy would wear a hat like that. To the horror of the crowd, simpson retaliated by slapping the Black Warrior in the face with his open hand. Simpson retaliated by slapping the black warrior in the face with his open hand. Speechless with anger, the warrior drew his gun and pointed it at Simpson's head. The two men stood glaring at each other for a few tense minutes, neither speaking a word. Then, to the surprise of all present, the warrior put his gun back in its holster and stalked out of the saloon, giving the hat a kick which sent it rolling into the streets where the cowboys riddled it with bullets.
Speaker 1:Calm and undisturbed, simpson left the saloon, pausing for a last fond look at his battered hat. He entered right in Beverly's store where he purchased a big white hat and a pair of cowboy boots. Simpson strolled down the street proudly displaying his white flag, a symbol of both surrender and victory. The cheers of the crowd filled the air as he made his way past the bustling frontier town of Dodge City. All past grievances were now a thing of the past and Simpson, once a disoriented stranger, was now embraced as a respected member of the community. In the local bars, the residents raised their glasses in a toast to the dude dentist from Missouri, celebrating his newfound place among them. The black warrior was once questioned about why he chose not to kill Simpson, and his response was unexpected. He explained "I didn't think it would improve my reputation as a gunman to take out that bold young man. I actually admired his courage". After this incident, dr Simpson agreed with the influential figures in the front street area of the city. He then rented a small room on a quiet street and established his dental practice. A sign outside his office read Dr OH Simpson, dentist. It was here that he gained widespread recognition for his exceptional skills in dentistry.
Speaker 1:In the rugged American frontier, oh Simpson's approach to dentistry was as distinctive as the landscape itself. Unlike the townsfolk who sought dental relief from barbers or endure the crude pliers of the trade, simpson, a graduate of the Ohio College of Dental Surgery, was ingenious. He often crafted dental impressions in the field using materials as basic as melted beeswax and tin sourced from everyday cans, a practice that set him apart as a pioneering dentist. Establishing his dental office in the bustling town of Dodge City in 1885, simpson faced a unique challenge. His first patients, rugged cowboys with colorful tails, sought relief from their dental woes. Gold crowns, a sought-after solution, led to a swift depletion of his precious gold plate supply. However, simpson's resourcefulness knew no bounds. He placed gold coins onto the railroad tracks, waited for the powerful Santa Fe Flyer train to pass over them, thus flattening the coins into usable dental material.
Speaker 1:After he opened his dental practice, one of his first patients was none other than the Drayman, who brought in his young son for a tooth extraction. Once the job was finished, the father handed over a $5 bill, only for Simpson to respond with a silver dollar in change. Didn't I give you a $5 bill? The Dr drayman asked his brow furrowing in confusion. Absolutely, but wasn't that a one dollar bill? I just gave back to you, simpson replied with a casual smile. After all, everything is high out here. Work costs a pretty penny, cigars are hard to come by, and I've got to raise my prices to survive in this bustling town. With that, the matter was settled. From that day on, dr Simpson was no longer just a newcomer, he was embracing the ways of a true Westerner wallet, and all His first office equipment consisted of an old cycloid dental chair and a $3 table on which he spread his instruments.
Speaker 1:But there was something else in the character of this young dentist that had more to do with his success than his equipment. From the first, his instruments were spread out systematically, with everything in its place, in order to save time. Efficiency had always been his motto Through all the years of practice, getting things done quickly and effectually had been his first thought. It had extended even to the trivial details, even to such a small thing as kindling the fire in the morning. His kindling was always prepared beforehand, the oil can and cup always in a particular relative position, so that by the slightest movement the oil was in the stove and cup and could be restored to their place and the fire going before many another man would have had his jackknife out.
Speaker 1:By combining more than average technical skills with good business ability, dr Simpson initially enjoyed the very distinctive situation of never having to wait for something to do. At the time his present suite of rooms was built, they were considered the best equipped and most modern dental offices in the world. Everything was arranged with the one thought of efficiency. The tools in his laboratory were all homemade from models he had prepared. His was the seventh white dental outfit made. The SSW and other dental manufacturing concerns sent men to see his room, equipment, tools etc. And he was offered $5,000 a year to take charge of the experimental department of the SSW manufacturing company. His methods are nearly all original ideas. Other dentists have appropriated these ideas, patented them and reaped the harvest they did not sow.
Speaker 1:For an outstanding 25 years Dr Simpson has been a captivating presence at the Kansas State Dental Association's annual clinics. His influence extended far beyond state lines and he conducted clinics and postgraduate courses in nearly every major city across the US and Canada east of Denver. This widespread influence had earned him a heartfelt vote of thanks for his invaluable contributions, not just from the Kansas State Dental Association but also from the broader dental community Dental Association but also from the broader dental community. Dr Simpson was a trailblazer in dental education, always on the lookout for the most efficient methods that delivered results without compromising quality. His philosophy was simple If there's a way to save time while maintaining excellence, he seized it. This approach led to a remarkable statistic Nine out of ten root canals were completed on the same day they were presented to him. This efficiency was a result of his deep understanding of his patients, many of whom traveled 75 to 100 miles just to see him. He valued their time and understood the need to get them back on the road promptly a testament to his dedication and compassionate approach to dentistry.
Speaker 1:Renowned within the Kansas State Dental Association, dr Simpson amassed numerous accolades, including a 14-year tenure as a State Board of Dental Examiners member and served in the association's president. In 1914, he nearly stepped away from active practice, choosing instead to oversee his expansive business and interests. Remarkably, he maintained an impressive average of over one gold plate a week for 30 years, with various other aspects of his practice thriving alongside it. This outstanding achievement in a rural dental office was a testament to his reputation and dedication. Dr Simpson's clientele spanned from New York to Chicago, st Louis, denver and Los Angeles, solidifying his status as one of the leading figures in dentistry. His journey beautifully illustrated the adage If a man builds a better mousetrap, the world will beat a path to his door. In Dr Simpson's case, the path had been well-trodden, a true mark of his exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to his craft. Dr Lee Burton Shorp, president of the National Dental Association, described Dr Simpson as America's one gentle genius. Residents of Kansas regard him as a distinguished figure who has enhanced the state's reputation.
Speaker 1:Dr Simpson hails from a strong Scottish-Irish lineage. William Simpson's grandfather was born in Maryland and became a pioneer farmer in Ohio and Indiana. Dr Simpson's father, ralph B Simpson, was born in Butler County, ohio. He worked as a lawyer and served in the Federal Secret Service in Canada during the Civil War. He passed away in Nevada, missouri, in 1913 at age 84. On April 28, 1892, dr Simpson embarked on a new chapter in his life by marrying Catherine Moeller, born on September 7, 1871. Catherine hailed from a distinguished family. Her father, captain JE Moeller, was a prominent criminal lawyer in Salina, kansas, and a captain in the Union Army during the Civil War. He was married to Martha B Sullivan. This union not only marked the beginning of Dr Simpson's family, but also deepened his roots in the community thanks to his connection with Catherine's illustrious father. Dr and Mrs Simpson welcomed five wonderful children. Dr and Mrs Simpson welcomed five wonderful children Carrie, charles, catherine, nellie and Nita, each adding joy and vibrancy to their lives.
Speaker 1:Beyond his professional success in dentistry, dr Simpson was a passionate community steward. He actively participated in several organizations, including the Knights Templar Masons, known for their emphasis on philanthropy and ethical conduct, and the Knights of Pythias, which promotes friendship and benevolence. He was also a Modern Woodman of America member, focusing on mutual aid and community service. His dedication to his community shines through in his ownership of the business block housing his dental practice, which thrived for 13 years. Additionally, he managed multiple properties, including a charming modern residence at 701 4th Avenue and an expansive 600 acres of farmland in Kansas. Reflecting his commitment to his profession and his beloved community. By August 1930, the Dodge City Globe celebrated Simpson's remarkable contributions to dentistry, deeming him a trailblazer in developing the modern dental inlay and one of the first to utilize a gasoline blowpipe in his practice. His pioneering spirit was recognized at the highest levels, with the US Supreme Court officially acknowledging him as the inventor of the cast inlay in 1912, a term he had first mentioned in speeches in 1903. This recognition by the highest court in the land underscored the magnitude of his achievements. However, controversy surrounded this innovation when Taggart sought a patent in 1907, leading to a legal dispute over the invention.
Speaker 1:As the 20th century dawned, simpson became a revered figure within dental circles, frequently invited to share his insights at National Dental Association meetings. At the same time, numerous articles were penned about his groundbreaking work. His leadership extended to the Kansas State Board of Dental Examiners and he held the esteemed position of Kansas State Dental Association President. Yet in 1914, after decades of service, simpson made the surprising decision to retire from dentistry. He ventured into a new endeavor, operating a dairy near Dodge City alongside another local dentist. This transition from dentistry to dairy farming showcased the breadth of his interests and his willingness to explore new fields. And his willingness to explore new fields. Together they invested in 15 Holstein cows and a bull, aspiring to create a clean, fly-free dairy renowned for purity. Their dairy quickly gained attention, earning a feature in the February 1914 issue of Country Gentleman, a prominent national magazine prominent national magazine.
Speaker 1:In his later years, simpson's interests extended far beyond dentistry. He discovered a passion for sculpting with concrete, channeling his creativity into tangible works of art. One of his most notable creations, the cowboy statue, is a testament to his artistry, an impressive eight foot tall, 2,000 pound figure that commands attention at Boot Hill, near the old city building. This multifaceted man dentist, dairy farmer and sculptor left behind a legacy etched in the history of Dodge City when he passed away in March 1935 at 73.
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