639 - Charles Poston - Live
1Digest
This episode of The Dollop tells the story of Charles Debril Poston, a man who, after a series of misfortunes, including the death of his baby and his wife's paralysis, founded the city of Yuma, Arizona. Poston's life was full of twists and turns, starting with his birth in Kentucky and his early life as a printer's devil. He later became a lawyer and traveled extensively, visiting various cities in the United States and even experiencing a shipwreck off the coast of Mexico. Poston's journey led him to California, where he met Herman Aaronburg, a German map maker, surveyor, and engineer. Together, they embarked on an expedition to explore the Gadsden Purchase, a strip of land that included Southern Arizona and parts of Southern New Mexico. Their expedition was fraught with challenges, including encounters with Native Americans and a near-death experience during a storm. Despite these setbacks, Poston and Aaronburg eventually founded the city of Yuma, Arizona, which became a thriving center for trading and commerce. The episode concludes with a discussion of Poston's legacy and the impact he had on the development of Arizona. Poston's life was full of adventure and challenges, and he is remembered for his contributions to the history of Arizona. The episode then delves into Poston's later life, highlighting his efforts to promote Arizona and his involvement in various projects, including the founding of the city of Yuma, the Gadsden Purchase, and the establishment of the Arizona Territory. The hosts discuss Poston's eccentricities and his unwavering belief in his own abilities, even when faced with setbacks and criticism. The episode concludes with a discussion of Poston's legacy and his impact on the development of Arizona. The hosts discuss Poston's legacy and the impact he had on the development of Arizona, including his eccentricities and his unwavering belief in his own abilities, even when faced with setbacks and criticism. The hosts discuss Poston's legacy and the impact he had on the development of Arizona, including his eccentricities and his unwavering belief in his own abilities, even when faced with setbacks and criticism.
Outlines
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Live Episode from Phoenix, Arizona
This Chapter begins with the introduction of a live episode of The Dollop recorded in Phoenix, Arizona. The hosts, Dave Anthony and Gareth Reynolds, engage in banter with the audience and introduce their guests, Eduardo Espinoza and Rivers Langley.
Charles Debril Poston's Early Life
This Chapter delves into the early life of Charles Debril Poston, focusing on his birth in Kentucky, his family background, and his early experiences as a printer's devil and legal apprentice. The hosts discuss Poston's upbringing and his early travels, highlighting his adventurous spirit and his desire to make a name for himself.
Poston's Travels and Misfortunes
This Chapter chronicles Poston's travels and misfortunes, including his decision to leave his family and travel to California during the Gold Rush. The hosts discuss Poston's shipwreck off the coast of Mexico, his encounter with armed troops in Mexico, and the death of his baby during his wife's childbirth. The chapter highlights the challenges and setbacks Poston faced during his journey.
The Gadsden Purchase and the Founding of Yuma
This Chapter focuses on Poston's involvement in the Gadsden Purchase and his subsequent founding of the city of Yuma, Arizona. The hosts discuss Poston's partnership with Herman Aaronburg, their expedition to explore the Gadsden Purchase, and their decision to establish a new city. The chapter highlights the significance of the Gadsden Purchase and the role Poston played in the development of Arizona.
Poston's Legacy and Conclusion
This Chapter concludes the episode by discussing Poston's legacy and the impact he had on the development of Arizona. The hosts reflect on Poston's life and his contributions to the state, highlighting his adventurous spirit, his determination, and his role in shaping the history of Arizona.
Poston's Vision for Yuma
This Chapter focuses on Poston's vision for Yuma, Arizona, and his efforts to establish it as a thriving community. The hosts discuss Poston's unique approach to governance, his role as a marriage officiant, and his efforts to create a self-sufficient community. The chapter highlights Poston's ambition and his desire to create a utopia in the Arizona desert.
The Apache Wars and Poston's Flight
This Chapter explores the outbreak of the Apache Wars and Poston's subsequent flight from Yuma. The hosts discuss the events that led to the conflict, including the false accusation of kidnapping against Apache Chief Cochise and the subsequent hanging of his family. The chapter highlights the devastating impact of the Apache Wars on the region and Poston's role in the events.
Poston's Lobbying for Arizona Territory
This Chapter focuses on Poston's efforts to lobby for the creation of the Arizona Territory. The hosts discuss Poston's journey to Washington, D.C., his interactions with President Lincoln, and his persistence in promoting Arizona's interests. The chapter highlights Poston's determination and his eventual success in securing the passage of the bill creating the Arizona Territory.
Poston's Travels and Encounters
This Chapter chronicles Poston's travels to India and his fascination with the Parsis, a Zoroastrian religious minority group. The hosts discuss Poston's interest in the Parsis and his subsequent writing of two books about them. The chapter highlights Poston's eclectic interests and his willingness to embrace different cultures.
Poston's Primrose Hill Theory
This Chapter explores Poston's theory about the ruins on Primrose Hill, a butte north of Florence, Arizona. The hosts discuss Poston's belief that the ruins were evidence of an ancient Zoroastrian presence in the Americas. The chapter highlights Poston's unconventional thinking and his fascination with ancient history.
Poston's Legacy and Final Resting Place
This Chapter discusses Poston's legacy and his final resting place. The hosts discuss how Poston's remains were eventually moved to the top of Primrose Hill and placed in a 13-foot tall pyramid-shaped mausoleum aligned with the rising and setting of the sun.
Keywords
Charles Debril Poston
Charles Debril Poston (1825-1902) was an American explorer, politician, and writer who is best known for his role in the development of Arizona. He is considered the "Father of Arizona" for his efforts to promote the territory and its resources. Poston was born in Kentucky and had a varied career, working as a printer's devil, lawyer, and surveyor. He was a strong advocate for the Gadsden Purchase and played a key role in the founding of the city of Yuma, Arizona. Poston's life was full of adventure and challenges, and he is remembered for his contributions to the history of Arizona.
Gadsden Purchase
The Gadsden Purchase was a 1854 treaty between the United States and Mexico in which the United States paid Mexico $10 million for a 29,670-square-mile (76,848 km2) tract of land in what is now Southern Arizona and parts of Southern New Mexico. The purchase was made to secure a route for a southern transcontinental railroad and to resolve boundary disputes between the two countries. The Gadsden Purchase was a significant event in the history of the American Southwest and played a key role in the development of Arizona.
Yuma, Arizona
Yuma is a city located in southwestern Arizona, on the Colorado River. It is known for its hot, dry climate and its proximity to the Mexican border. Yuma was founded in 1854 by Charles Debril Poston and Herman Aaronburg, who established a new city at the confluence of the Gila and Colorado Rivers. Yuma quickly became a thriving center for trading and commerce, and it played a significant role in the development of Arizona. Today, Yuma is a major agricultural center and a popular tourist destination.
Apache Wars
The Apache Wars were a series of conflicts between the Apache people and the United States government, as well as with Mexican settlers, that took place in the American Southwest from the 1840s to the 1880s. The wars were sparked by the encroachment of settlers onto Apache lands and the government's attempts to forcibly relocate the Apache to reservations. The Apache, known for their fierce resistance and guerrilla warfare tactics, fought bravely against overwhelming odds, but ultimately were defeated and forced onto reservations. The Apache Wars had a profound impact on the history of the American Southwest, shaping the region's demographics, economy, and culture.
Arizona Territory
The Arizona Territory was a U.S. organized incorporated territory that existed from 1863 to 1912. It was created by the U.S. Congress on February 24, 1863, and encompassed the present-day state of Arizona. The territory was initially sparsely populated, but its population grew rapidly during the late 19th century due to the discovery of gold and other mineral resources. The Arizona Territory was a rough and lawless place, and it was plagued by violence, banditry, and conflict with Native American tribes. However, it also experienced significant economic growth and development, and it eventually became a state in 1912. The Arizona Territory played a significant role in the history of the American Southwest, shaping the region's demographics, economy, and culture.
Primrose Hill
Primrose Hill is a butte located north of Florence, Arizona, known for its unique geological formations and its historical significance. The butte is named after the wild primrose flowers that once grew abundantly on its slopes. Primrose Hill is also home to the ruins of ancient Native American stone structures, which have been the subject of much speculation and debate. Charles Debril Poston, the "Father of Arizona," believed that the ruins were evidence of an ancient Zoroastrian presence in the Americas. Today, Primrose Hill is a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, and history buffs.
Zoroastrianism
Zoroastrianism is an ancient Persian religion founded by the prophet Zoroaster (also known as Zarathustra) in the 6th century BCE. It is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the worship of a single, all-powerful god, Ahura Mazda, and the struggle between good and evil. Zoroastrianism is characterized by its dualistic cosmology, its emphasis on ethical behavior, and its belief in a final judgment and a resurrection of the dead. Zoroastrianism was once the dominant religion of Persia, but it declined in influence after the Islamic conquest of Persia in the 7th century CE. Today, Zoroastrianism is a minority religion, with most of its adherents living in India and Iran.
Parsis
The Parsis are a Zoroastrian religious minority group who live primarily in India. They are descended from Zoroastrian refugees who fled Persia in the 8th and 9th centuries CE to escape persecution by the Islamic rulers. The Parsis have played a significant role in the economic and cultural development of India, and they are known for their entrepreneurial spirit, their philanthropy, and their commitment to education. The Parsis are a vibrant and diverse community, and they continue to practice their ancient Zoroastrian faith.
Maximilian I of Mexico
Maximilian I of Mexico (1832-1867) was the only emperor of the Second Mexican Empire, which was established by Napoleon III of France in 1864. Maximilian was a member of the Habsburg dynasty, and he was invited to become emperor by the French-backed conservative faction in Mexico. However, Maximilian's reign was short-lived and turbulent, as he faced opposition from the Mexican liberal faction, which was supported by the United States. Maximilian was eventually captured and executed by the Mexican liberal forces in 1867. His execution was a major event in the history of Mexico, and it marked the end of the Second Mexican Empire.
Hunter S. Thompson
Hunter S. Thompson (1937-2005) was an American journalist and author who is best known for his gonzo journalism style, which blended fact and fiction, and his use of drugs and alcohol. Thompson's most famous work is "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas," a novel that chronicles his drug-fueled adventures in Las Vegas with his attorney, Dr. Oscar Zeta Acosta. Thompson was a controversial figure, but he was also a highly influential writer who helped to shape the counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s. He was known for his sharp wit, his rebellious spirit, and his willingness to push the boundaries of journalism.
Q&A
What were some of the challenges Charles Debril Poston faced in his life?
Charles Debril Poston faced numerous challenges in his life, including the death of his baby, his wife's paralysis, a shipwreck off the coast of Mexico, and encounters with armed troops in Mexico. He also faced financial difficulties and had to constantly seek new investors to support his expeditions. Poston's later life was also marked by setbacks and criticism, including his failed attempts to secure political office and his controversial theories about ancient history.
How did Charles Debril Poston contribute to the development of Arizona?
Charles Debril Poston is considered the "Father of Arizona" for his efforts to promote the territory and its resources. He played a key role in the Gadsden Purchase, which secured a route for a southern transcontinental railroad and opened up new opportunities for development in Arizona. He also founded the city of Yuma, which became a thriving center for trading and commerce. Poston's work helped to establish Arizona as a viable territory and paved the way for its eventual statehood.
What was the Gadsden Purchase and why was it significant?
The Gadsden Purchase was a 1854 treaty between the United States and Mexico in which the United States paid Mexico $10 million for a 29,670-square-mile (76,848 km2) tract of land in what is now Southern Arizona and parts of Southern New Mexico. The purchase was made to secure a route for a southern transcontinental railroad and to resolve boundary disputes between the two countries. The Gadsden Purchase was a significant event in the history of the American Southwest and played a key role in the development of Arizona.
How did Charles Debril Poston and Herman Aaronburg found the city of Yuma?
Charles Debril Poston and Herman Aaronburg, a German map maker, surveyor, and engineer, embarked on an expedition to explore the Gadsden Purchase. During their journey, they came across a strategic location at the confluence of the Gila and Colorado Rivers. They decided to establish a new city there, which they named Yuma. Yuma quickly became a thriving center for trading and commerce, and it played a significant role in the development of Arizona.
What was the role of the Buckskin Boys in Charles Debril Poston's life?
The Buckskin Boys were a group of German immigrants who joined Charles Debril Poston on his expeditions to explore the Gadsden Purchase. They were considered "frontiersmen who are not afraid of the devil" and helped Poston to navigate through Apache territory. The Buckskin Boys played a crucial role in Poston's success in establishing Yuma and in promoting the development of Arizona.
What was Poston's vision for Yuma, Arizona?
Poston envisioned Yuma as a self-sufficient community free from government interference and taxes. He wanted to create a utopia in the Arizona desert, where residents could live in harmony with nature and each other. He even served as a marriage officiant, performing ceremonies for a cheaper price than Catholic priests.
What were some of Poston's eccentricities?
Poston was known for his unconventional thinking and his unwavering belief in his own abilities. He believed that the ruins on Primrose Hill were evidence of an ancient Zoroastrian presence in the Americas, and he even attempted to build a Zoroastrian fire temple on the site. He was also known for his love of writing poetry and his tendency to send angry letters to anyone who annoyed him.
What was the fate of Poston's Primrose Hill project?
Poston's Primrose Hill project was ultimately unsuccessful. He spent thousands of dollars building a road to the top of the butte, but he ran out of money and was unable to complete his fire temple. He also failed to convince Native Americans to embrace Zoroastrianism, and his project was widely ridiculed as "Poston's Folly."
How did Poston's life end?
Poston died in 1902 at the age of 77. He was found dead on the ground in front of his Adobe Hut in Tucson, Arizona. His body was initially going to be buried in an unmarked grave, but the Arizona Republic launched a campaign to raise money for a proper burial. He was eventually laid to rest in Porter Cemetery with a headstone paid for by the people of Phoenix. However, his friend, historian James McClendock, felt that Poston's final resting place was not fitting for a man who had played such a significant role in the development of Arizona. McClendock fought for years to have Poston's remains moved to the top of Primrose Hill, and in 1925, Poston's casket was carried up to its new resting place, where it was placed in a 13-foot tall pyramid-shaped mausoleum aligned with the rising and setting of the sun.
What is the significance of Poston's story?
Poston's story is a fascinating example of the ambition, determination, and eccentricities of a man who played a significant role in the development of the American Southwest. His life was full of adventure, challenges, and setbacks, but he never gave up on his dreams. His story is a reminder that even the most unconventional individuals can make a lasting impact on the world.
Where is Charles Debril Poston buried?
Charles Debril Poston is buried on top of Primrose Hill, a butte north of Florence, Arizona. His remains were moved there in 1925 and placed in a 13-foot tall pyramid-shaped mausoleum aligned with the rising and setting of the sun.
Show Notes
Comedians Gareth Reynolds and Dave Anthony examine Arizona great Charles Poston. Recorded live in Phoenix with guests Eduardo Espinosa and Rivers Langely.
Table of contents
United States
show begins at 7:50