Chautauqua: Billy the Kid

Ralph Estes presents an entertaining lecture and performance, bringing the history of this legendary figure to life.

Ralph Estes presents Billy the Kid, a Chautauqua, made possible by the Friends for the Public Library, the New Mexico Humanities Council (nmhum.org), and the National Endowment for the Humanities.  A Chautauqua is an entertaining lecture and performance, bringing history to life.  The technique is named for the resort in Chautauqua, NY, where adults on vacation could learn, beginning in 1874. The "world's oldest living cowboy" tells, in story and song, of his years as a cowboy and his friendship with Billy the Kid. Stories about Billy the Kid are generally exaggerated. This program addresses the legend-making process while presenting the story of Billy that is supported by historical evidence.