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Waco History Podcast

Waco History Podcast

By Randy Lane

Over 100 years ago, my great grandfather, Roy E. Lane made his mark on Waco by designing the ALICO Building, Hippodrome, and other well-known landmarks. With the help of my co-host, Dr. Stephen Sloan of Baylor’s Institute for Oral History, I’m learning about Waco’s known and unknown past. I’m Randy Lane, and this is the Waco History Podcast.
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Currently playing episode

Waco and the Wild Wired West: The End of the Chisholm Trail

Waco History PodcastAug 14, 2020

00:00
36:11
Randy's last Waco History Podcast

Randy's last Waco History Podcast

Randy is leaving Waco and the Waco History Podcast. He and Stephen talk about their favorite episodes, memories, and guests from years past. The Waco History podcast will live on! Stephen is sticking around and the show is joining the Rogue Media Network.

About the Waco History Podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the Charity Champions Podcast.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Support the show on Anchor.

Feb 08, 202133:28
How Railroads Shaped Waco

How Railroads Shaped Waco

On this episode:

Railroad Historian Brad Linda tells us how Waco and surrounding communities grew along major rail lines. We talk specifically about the Cotton Belt Railroad that ran all the way from St. Louis to Gatesville.

From our sponsor

Brotherwell Brewing is the official local brewery of the Waco History Podcast. Back on tap, try the Shelter in Haze, Hazy IPA. And look for their beers in the Wooded Acres H-E-B! That’s Brotherwell Brewing, on historic Bridge Street. The beer that pairs perfectly with Waco History.

About the Waco History Podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the Charity Champions Podcast.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Support the show on Anchor.

Jan 25, 202147:25
Building Waco: Architect Milton Scott

Building Waco: Architect Milton Scott

Waco architect B.J. Greaves tells us about legendary architect Milton Scott. Scott created many well-know buildings during his career including the Dr Pepper Museum, First Baptist Church, and the Cooper House. He started his career in 1906 and kept working right up until he died in 1933. Many of Scott's structures are still standing today. 

Learn more about Milton Scott on wacohistory.org.

About the Waco History Podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the Charity Champions Podcast.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Support the show on Anchor.

Album artwork courtesy of the Texas Collection.


Dec 16, 202001:04:48
The Supernatural Story of Mabel Legg

The Supernatural Story of Mabel Legg

On this episode

Returning to the podcast, Cindy Little tells us how a paranormal investigation took her on a historic journey. While investigating a paranormal sighting related to a photo, Cindy posted the pic on a Facebook group. Turns out, Cindy's ghost was a very well known local lady.

About the podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

Sponsor

The Waco History Podcast is sponsored by Brotherwell Brewing. Fall is the air, and that means the return of their Percy Porter. Named after the Percy Medicine Building, the first place they brewed their delicious beer! It’s also rumored that Babe Ruth hit a homer that bounced off the roof! Go enjoy a pint in their spacious outdoor beer garden. The safest way to beat those COVID blues! That’s Brotherwell Brewing on historic Bridge Street.

Nov 20, 202041:56
Hidden History of Waco

Hidden History of Waco

Eric S. Ames joins us again to talk about his new book, Hidden History of Waco. You may remember him from our tornado episode. We discuss stories from the book including the man with two tombs, one of the longest books every written, and the church built in a day!

You can find Eric’s book in bookstores near you and online.

Oct 30, 202001:01:29
Baseball in Waco

Baseball in Waco

On this episode

What do Babe Ruth, Teddy Roosevelt, a one-legged pitcher, and a tornado have in common? They're all a part of Waco's baseball history! Listen as we separate fact from urban legend on this episode of the Waco History Podcast.

Learn more about Katy Park on WacoHistory.org. 

Learn more about Andrew Lewis Cooper.

Thanks to our sponsor: Brotherwell Brewing

This episode is brought to you by our friends at Brotherwell Brewing: The Official Local Beer of the Waco History Podcast. Located on historic Bridge Street in Waco, swing by and pick up some of their Waco-themed brews, like “Hidden Heard”: a brown amber lager named for the mammoths that roamed this area tens of thousands of years ago. We talked about them on episode 10!

Visit brotherwell.com to learn more about their Growler Club. A year of fills for one low price.

About the show

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support


Sep 22, 202036:03
Waco and the Wild Wired West: The End of the Chisholm Trail
Aug 14, 202036:11
Waco's Invisible Icon: Tom Wilson

Waco's Invisible Icon: Tom Wilson

On this episode:

Zach Burke joins us to talk about Keep Waco Loud's upcoming podcast series on Wacoan and Iconic Music Producer Tom Wilson. Wilson was instrumental in developing the sounds of many famous artists throughout the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Wilson’s legacy was cemented when he changed history by producing two songs now considered among the greatest in rock and music history. He also reunited a legendary band and acted as the man behind the curtain for a pop art icon’s music career. Tom Wilson worked with The Velvet Underground, Bob Dylan, Simon and Garfunkel, and more.

Subscribe to the Invisible Icon: The Tom Wilson Story so you won't miss the first episode on July 7th! You can also subscribe to Keep Waco Loud's podcast feed. Rogue Media Network produces the podcast. Check out all the other great shows they produce. 

About the podcast: 

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Jun 22, 202024:18
Waco's brief world record: tree sitting

Waco's brief world record: tree sitting

No doubt kids back in the 1930s were as bored as kids during COVID-19! Their answer: tree sitting. That's right, kids in the 1930s tried to see how long they could stay up in a tree. One Wacoan, Jack Kellner Jr., briefly held the world record by staying in a tree off Homan Ave for more than 156 hours! Listen as Stephen and Randy take a trip into Waco's past:

The Waco History Project has more on this moment in time:

At 1 p.m. July 16, 1930, Frank Kellner Jr., 12, climbed the cottonwood tree in the backyard of his home, 2324 Homan Ave. — launching the craze in Waco.

The News-Tribune reported that the youngster, a 94-pound Boy Scout who looked like he was "out to try anything for glory," had a support team made up of pals Sidney Carlisle, Keith Burns and Maynard G. Darden. The trio sent up three meals a day, made by Frank's enthusiastic mother, in a basket on a rope. Some even climbed up to his quilt-lined and book-laden platform to play a board game to help him while away the hours.

Frank's father told reporters that he'd offered his son a $1 per day incentive for each day past the record Frank could make it.

A day later, two female rivals took to the branches. Frances Coates, 11, and Mildred Fraser, 13, with a black and white kitten for company, climbed a tree at 502 Dallas St. and nestled among blankets and pillows stuffed in the crotches of a box elder. Their support team was composed of friends Mildred Yarbrough and Marie Stewart.

Learn more at wacohistory.com/tree-sitting

Jun 09, 202011:50
Waco's Legend Bearer: Helen Marie Taylor

Waco's Legend Bearer: Helen Marie Taylor

On this episode:

Waco’s Legend Bearer: Helen Marie Taylor. She comes from a long line of Wacoans. Her family’s history in the area dates back before the Civil War. Miss Taylor talks about growing up in Waco, acting on Broadway and in Hollywood, and starting the Taylor Museum of Waco History. And now, join us on a trip into Waco’s past.

Learn more about Helen Marie Taylor's Museum on WacoHistory.org

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

May 25, 202053:59
Waco's Voice: Jules Bledsoe

Waco's Voice: Jules Bledsoe

On this episode of the Waco History Podcast, Dr. Horace Maxile, Associate Professor of Music Theory at Baylor University, joins us to talk about Jules Bledsoe.

Julius “Jules” Bledsoe’s extraordinary musical talent transcended racial discrimination of the nineteenth century and established him as a pioneer in American music.

Bledsoe was born on December 29, 1897, to Henry and Jessie Bledsoe in Waco. Even as a young child, he loved to sing. Bledsoe first performed publicly at the age of five at New Hope Baptist Church, a church founded by his grandfather in 1866. In 1914, Bledsoe graduated from Central Texas Academy as valedictorian, and travelled to Marshall, Texas, to study liberal arts and music at Bishop College. After graduating magna cum laude in 1918, Bledsoe served as a civilian chaplain for an ROTC program at Virginia Union University in Richmond from 1918 to 1919.

About the podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Learn more about Waco's history at wacohistory.org.

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast
Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

Mar 25, 202050:01
Waco's 9/11 response
Feb 14, 202027:28
Prohibition in Waco: Live Podcast Recording

Prohibition in Waco: Live Podcast Recording

On this episode:

For our second-ever live podcast recording, The Dr. Pepper Museum hosted us to talk about Prohibition in the South. The event kicked off their Prohibition exhibit: Spirited. Catch the exhibit until January 7th at the Dr. Pepper Museum.

We had two guests on this show: Dr. Joe Coker teaches in Baylor University's Religion Department. He's studied and written about Prohibition extensively. Pick up his book Liquor in the Land of the Lost Cause: Southern White Evangelicals and the Prohibition Movement.

Andrew Anderson is the Front of House Manager at Balcones Distilling. He talks about the production of different alcohols, and tells us what life as a bartender would've looked like during Prohibition. 

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Support the show here.

Dec 18, 201946:01
Waco's First Troll: William Cowper Brann

Waco's First Troll: William Cowper Brann

In this episode:
Bradley T. Turner returns to the studio to talk about William Cowper Brann: Waco's first troll. Brann was a provocative writer born in 1855. His highly opinionated style made him an infamous figure in Waco. So much so that it ended up costing him his life. 

About the podcast:
The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast
Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

Dec 05, 201952:16
Waco's Most Jailed Doctor: Charles Lemly

Waco's Most Jailed Doctor: Charles Lemly

On this episode:

 Randy and Stephen talk with Dr. Andrew Oestreich, a local chiropractor, about another well-know Waco chiropractor: Dr. Charles Lemly. In that time, practicing Chiropractic wasn't licensed medicine. Charles ended up in jail more than 60 times! 

Thanks to Dr. Oestreich for telling about this historic Wacoan. Dr. Andrew Oestreich runs Landmark Chiropractic at the corner of Bosque and Wooded acres, right in front of Target in Waco.

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:

Nov 11, 201922:55
The Crash at Crush: Waco's deadliest publicity stunt

The Crash at Crush: Waco's deadliest publicity stunt

In this episode:

In our first ever live podcast recording from Pinewood Public House, Author Mike Cox talks with us about the deliberate, high-speed, head-on collision between two locomotives. His recently published book tells the story of American’s deadliest publicity stunt and dispels some of the myths. 

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

Oct 08, 201952:33
The White Primary: Waco History Podcast

The White Primary: Waco History Podcast

In this episode:

Dr. Katherine K. Walters of the Texas State Historical Association tells us about the 100-year-old Waco court case that sparked civil rights reforms around the country.

Follow the TSHA on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/TexasStateHistoricalAssociation/

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts.

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history.

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast
Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support


Aug 27, 201947:02
Historic Homes Short: The Austin Estate

Historic Homes Short: The Austin Estate

Listen as Historic Waco Homes Expert Dr. Ken Hafertepe talks about the Austin Estate located at 2114 Austin Ave. Book the Austin Estate for your next trip to Waco at austinestatewaco.com.

Jul 30, 201902:08
Historic Waco Homes

Historic Waco Homes

In this episode:

Dr. Ken Haftertepe takes us on a tour of Waco’s famous houses and lesser-known homes. Dr. H just released his book: Historic Homes of Waco, Texas. 

In this tour of 120 historic homes in Waco, Texas, Dr. Hafertepe gives readers a glimpse of the surprising variety of styles and stories captured in the houses built by and for Wacoans. Focusing on the period from the 1850s to about 1940, Hafertepe provides not only snapshots of the dwellings in which the people of Waco lived, but also informed hints about how they lived: everyone from the wealthiest merchants to the humblest day laborers.

Ken is professor of museum studies and chair of the department. He has taught at Baylor since 2000, before which he was director of academic programs at Historic Deerfield, a museum of New English history and art. He is an authority on the material culture and decorative arts of the United States, especially of Texas.

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

Jul 10, 201901:04:21
The Waco Tornado

The Waco Tornado

In this episode

In one afternoon, 114 people lost their lives and Downtown Waco’s skyline was forever changed. Eric Ames, Assistant Director for Marketing & Communication for the Baylor University Libraries and ITS, walks us through the day the 1953 tornado touched down. We talk about the damage the storm caused, stories of hope in the aftermath, and ways the tornado’s effects are still felt today.

You can find Eric’s book on Waco on Amazon, and most places books are found.

Be sure and follow Waco Walks to learn about other historic walks in town. 

The photo in the album artwork for this episode was used with permission by the Texas Collection at Baylor University. The Texas Collection is Baylor University's oldest special collections library and serves as the University Archive that collects, preserves, and provides access to materials on the history, heritage and culture of Texas. Learn more on their website.

 About the podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support


Jun 08, 201901:02:29
The Brazos: Waco's River

The Brazos: Waco's River

On this episode:

Dr. Kenna Lang Archer, author of "Unruly Waters: A Social and Environmental History of the Brazos River," joins us to talk about Waco's most prominent river. We talk about its history all over the state, and the many attempts to tame it.

Check out Dr. Archer's website at kennalangarcher.com.

You can find Kenna's book on Amazon and at Barnes and Noble.

Special thanks to ACT Music for letting us play "Brazos River Breakdown" at the end of this episode. It's by the Nils Landgren Funk Unit from the album ACT 9455-2 License to Funk.

About the Waco History Podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

May 11, 201901:02:27
Waco During the Civil War

Waco During the Civil War

Dr. Robert Elder, Assistant Professor of History at Baylor University, joins us about life in Texas leading into the Civil War. We also talk about Sam Houston’s fight to keep Texas in the Union.

Dr. Elder specializes in the American South, especially religion, slavery, and intellectual history. His research focuses on the cultural, intellectual, and religious history of the American South in the 19th century.

Learn more about Dr. Elder on his Baylor faculty page.

About the podcast:

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Institute for Oral History at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  Learn more at wacohistorypodcast.com

Apr 11, 201941:16
Stephen on Downtown Depot

Stephen on Downtown Depot

On today’s episode, Stephen goes on Downtown Depot with Austin Meek.

On our last podcast we did a collaboration with a couple of other Waco podcasters: Garrett Simmons of the Wacoans Podcast and Austin Meek of Downtown Depot. Well, Austin recently had Stephen on his show. They talk about how the Wacoan History Podcast got started, the Waco History App, and, because it just won Best Picture at the Oscars, Green Book locations around Waco.

If you aren’t already subscribed, I highly recommend finding Downtown Depot in your podcatcher of choice. Or listen to the show on the first and third Fridays of the month at 11:30 AM on 103.3 KWBU. And now, here’s Austin and Stephen.

Follow Waco Business News on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About the Waco History Podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support


Mar 01, 201923:34
East Waco: Past, Present, and Future

East Waco: Past, Present, and Future

Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support

East Waco is a side of Waco that many locals don't know much about. With recent development in the area, we thought it was a good time to put together a Waco podcasting "dream team" to learn more about where this part of town has been and where it's going. Randy and Stephen welcome local podcasters Austin Meek and Garrett Simmons into the studio to discuss the past, present, and future of East Waco. Austin hosts Downtown Depot, a podcast and radio show produced in Waco. Garrett and his wife host The Wacoans Podcast, and show about people, news, and events in Waco.


Immediately following the round-table discussion, listen to interviews with people who live in and work in the East Waco. First is Carla Dotson, Owner and Operator of Boardwalk on Elm, a favorite food truck in East Waco. And lastly, we talk with Doreen Ravenscroft about the Doris Miller Memorial that stands on the East banks of the Brazos. 


More about Downtown Depot: https://www.npr.org/podcasts/494243086/downtown-depot

More about The Wacoans Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/TheWacoansPodcast


About the Waco History Podcast:


Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan host the Waco History Podcast. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 


Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 


Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  


Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on


Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wacohistorypodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wacohistorypodcast


Support the show here: https://anchor.fm/waco-history-podcast/support




Feb 20, 201901:39:52
Prehistoric Waco: 200 Million Years Ago

Prehistoric Waco: 200 Million Years Ago

In this episode

Millions of years before anyone lived here, nature conditioned Waco as a major crossroads. Dr. Joe Yelderman of Baylor's Department of Geosciences tells us how geology and natural history played a role in shaping Waco.

Learn more about the mammoths here.

About the podcast

The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 

Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 

Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  

Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Follow us on:

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Feb 13, 201946:44
Elvis in Waco
Jan 22, 201938:19
Haunted Waco 2: Ghost Hunting with Cindy Little

Haunted Waco 2: Ghost Hunting with Cindy Little

On this episode: Haunted Waco, Part 2. On episode 5, Brad Turner laid the groundwork by telling us some of Waco’s most well-known supernatural stories. On this episode, Paranormal Investigator Cindy Little tells us about searching for ghosts in Waco.
Dec 17, 201857:59
College Football and Murder
Nov 27, 201801:01:43
Waco's Legal Red-Light District: The Reservation

Waco's Legal Red-Light District: The Reservation

Randy and Stephen sit down with Amy Balderach to talk about "The Reservation." During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Waco was the 2nd city in the United States to have a legal red-light district.


From wacohistory,org:


Though not uncommon to late nineteenth-and early twentieth-century cities, red-light districts were regarded as areas of ill repute where madams and prostitutes worked outside the law. Yet in 1889, Waco—a city lauded for its multitude of educational institutions and churches—became only the second city in the United States to legalize such an area. This district, known as the Reservation, or sometimes as Two-Street, brought in thousands of dollars of revenue to the city while serving as a source of controversy for many years.


Learn more by reading the full entry here.


The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 


Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 


Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past.  


Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.



Nov 13, 201859:12
Haunted Waco: Waco's Supernatural Stories

Haunted Waco: Waco's Supernatural Stories

Local Waco Folklore Expert Brad Turner joins Stephen and Randy to talk about Waco's most popular supernatural stories.


Brad Turner is a professor at McLennan Community College. He's also the author of several books including, "Lust, Violence, Religion: Life in Historic Waco." It's available here: http://bit.ly/turnerwacobook.


About the podcast:


The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 


Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 


Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past. 


Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Oct 17, 201801:09:49
Waco During World War I

Waco During World War I

On this episode: Waco during World War I, told by the people who lived through it. Stephen brings his co-worker, Steven Sielaff, Senior Editor and Collection Manager for Baylor's Institute for Oral History, to guide us through how the war changed Waco.


Check out Waco History articles on World War I:


Camp MacArthur: http://www.wacohistory.org/items/show/48

Rich Field Army Air Base: http://www.wacohistory.org/items/show/187



About the Podcast:


The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 


Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 


Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past. 


Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.

Oct 04, 201801:21:21
Waco's Hometown Hero: Doris Miller

Waco's Hometown Hero: Doris Miller

Randy and Stephen are joined by Dr. Mike Parrish to talk about Waco's Hometown Hero: Doris Miller. Miller is best known for his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Dr. Parrish co-authored the book "Doris Miller, Pearl Harbor, and the Birth of the Civil Rights Movement" and shares what he's found about Miller in this episode.


For the city of Waco, he's an icon to bravery. Efforts started in 2015 to build a memorial to Miller in Waco near the Brazos River. Find out more here: dorismillermemorial.org.


Find out more about Doris Miller on his wacohistory.org page here: https://wacohistory.org/items/show/98


The Waco History Podcast is co-hosted by Randy Lane and Dr. Stephen Sloan. Randy Lane is the great-grandson of Waco architect Roy E. Lane. He’s also a former American Forces Network Radio DJ and is currently the host of the High Performance Leadership and Charity Champions Podcasts. 


Stephen heads the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. He’s authored several books and created and developed WacoHistory.org, a website and free mobile app for learning more about Waco’s history. 


Together they’re telling the known and unknown stories of Waco’s past. 


Find out more at wacohistorypodcast.com.coHistory.org page here: https://wacohistory.org/items/show/98

Find Mike's book here: http://a.co/d/a5o0gB9

Sep 27, 201851:20
Waco's Photographer: Fred A. Gildersleeve

Waco's Photographer: Fred A. Gildersleeve

Fred Gildersleeve captured some of Waco's most iconic pictures
Sep 14, 201801:13:03
What is the Waco History Podcast?

What is the Waco History Podcast?

On the first episode of the Waco History Podcast, hosts Randy Lane, great-grandson of notable Waco architect Roy E. Lane, and Dr. Stephen Sloan of Baylor University's Oral History Institute, introduce themselves and talk about the reasons for starting the podcast. Stephen helps fact check one of Randy's family rumors. He also tells listeners some of the most important historic locations.
Sep 14, 201824:20