Lorin Morgan-Richards Presents Biographies of the West

Season 3

Lorin Morgan-Richards Presents Biographies of the West - short documentaries about the people of the Old West, from early pioneers to cowboys at the turn of the 20th century. Included are biographies on Native American leaders, artists, outlaws, lawman, and Western singing-cowboys, and much more. Each episode is written and produced by host Lorin Morgan-Richards, Western author and illustrator, who colorizes historical photos, bringing the stories to life.

Where to Watch Lorin Morgan-Richards Presents Biographies of the West • Season 3

5 Episodes

The Lotta Crabtree Story
E1
The Lotta Crabtree StoryNarrator Lorin Morgan-Richards follows the dazzling rise of Charlotte "Lotta" Crabtree, a beloved entertainer who became one of the most successful and wealthy performers of the 19th century. Tracing Lotta's journey from a child performer in California Gold Rush mining camps-mentored by the legendary Lola Montez-to a national vaudeville sensation known as "The Nation's Darling." With colorized imagery and historical records, the documentary explores her early performances in San Francisco, her Broadway triumphs, and her philanthropic legacy, including the iconic Lotta's Fountain in San Francisco. Lotta's story is one of talent, resilience, and charm, capturing the spirit of a woman who lit up stages across America and Europe.
The Pearl Hart Story
E2
The Pearl Hart StoryThe Pearl Hart story recounts the daring life of Pearl Hart, one of the few female outlaws of the American West and among the last known stagecoach robbers in U.S. history. Narrator Lorin Morgan-Richards uncovers Hart's transformation from a Canadian-born preacher's daughter to the infamous "Lady Bandit" who shocked the nation in 1899 by robbing a stagecoach in Arizona-while dressed as a man. The documentary uses colorized imagery and historical documents to trace her troubled journey through abusive relationships, poverty, and a fascination with the Wild West sparked by a visit to the Chicago World's Fair. Alongside her accomplice, Joe Boot, Hart pulled off a bold heist that made headlines across the country.
The Mary Fields Story
E3
The Mary Fields StoryThe Mary Fields story tells the inspiring story of Mary Fields, better known as Stagecoach Mary, the first Black woman to carry U.S. mail. Narrated by Lorin Morgan-Richards, the documentary traces Fields' birth into slavery around 1832 to her rise as a fearless and respected figure in the American West. After the Civil War, Fields made her way to Montana, where she worked at St. Peter's Mission and later became a mail carrier at nearly 60 years old. Known for her towering presence, grit, and no-nonsense attitude, she braved harsh terrain, wild animals, and would-be bandits to deliver mail across remote regions. With colorized imagery and historical documents, the story highlights her resilience, unconventional spirit, and lasting legacy as a trailblazer who defied the odds.
The Black Bart Story
E4
The Black Bart StoryThe Black Bart Story tells the tale of Charles E. Boles, better known as Black Bart, the infamous "gentleman bandit" of the American West. Narrated by Lorin Morgan-Richards, using colorized photos, historical documents, and expert commentary, shows Bart's transformation from a Civil War veteran and failed prospector into one of the most notorious stagecoach robbers in California and Oregon during the 1870s and 1880s. Known for his polite demeanor, refined appearance, and the poetic notes he left behind at crime scenes, Black Bart committed at least 28 robberies-all without ever firing a shot.
The Wyatt Earp Story
E5
The Wyatt Earp StoryThe Wyatt Earp story follows the legendary life of Wyatt Berry Stapp Earp, a complex figure of the American frontier known for his role in the infamous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral. Narrated by Lorin Morgan-Richards, the story discusses Earp's journey from his early days as a lawman, gambler, and saloon keeper to his rise as a symbol of frontier justice. Set against the backdrop of the lawless boom towns of the West-most notably Tombstone, Arizona-the documentary explores Earp's turbulent relationships, personal tragedies, and the violent feuds that defined his legacy. Through colorized imagery and historical documents, the film examines the man behind the myth, revealing a life marked by both heroism and controversy.