This historian wants to shatter the myth of the Old West

CPR News | By Ryan Warner

Published July 1, 2026 at 5:11 PM EDT

Megan Kate Nelson, author of The Westerners wants to shatter the myth of the frontier, one of white easterners coming west in covered wagons with a nuclear family.

Ryan Warner

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now