Welcome back to pplpod! In today’s episode, we are exploring the fascinating pioneer history of the American West through the life of John Lewis Dyer (1812–1901), a legendary Methodist circuit rider who became famously known as "The Snowshoe Itinerant".

After the tragic loss of his wife and infant daughter, Dyer dedicated his life to the ministry and traveled to the rugged Colorado mining camps in 1859. We dive deep into his incredible frontier journeys, exploring how he traversed treacherous winter storms and high altitudes—including the grueling 13,188-foot Mosquito Pass—using 10-foot "snowshoes" (which were actually Norwegian skis) to reach remote settlements.

Discover how Dyer earned the affectionate nickname "Father Dyer" while preaching in tents, on street corners, and in rough-and-tumble saloon ...