A 2006 PBS Historical Recreation Reality Show, which placed 15 modern-day men and women in the living conditions of a Texas cattle ranch, circa 1867.
Tropes:
- Aerith and Bob: The ranch hands all have very cowboy-esque nicknames (though never used, see Informed Attribute): Slim, Dirty Johnny, Swede, Rattlesnake Rob, and...Ian.
- A Father to His Men: Original ranch foreman Stan "Colonel" Johnston sees himself as this. He's the only one. The ranch hands see him as The Neidermeyer
- Artistic License – History: Mostly from the ladies of the ranch, ranging from wearing what was essentially underwear of the time in the name of personal comfort, to attempting to infringe on the "men's work."
- Downer Ending: The ranch is completely overrun with flies, the vegetable garden is poorly kept, and all of the cowboys have defected or been fired. Furthermore, the historians' analysis of the results of the 2-month experiment revealed to the participants that Mr. Cook was a terrible rancher, boss, and bookkeeper and would have in all likelihood, lost his ranch within a year or so.
- Equivalent Exchange: Mr. Cook and Jared discuss it in relation to the former bartering for the latter's life (and his horse's) when Comanches captured him.
- Gorgeous Period Dress: Upon arrival to the ranch, all of the ladies are decked out in period-appropriate wear. The rest of the time... not so much.
- Honor Before Reason: The other cowboys' choice to ride out in style with Jared upon his departure from the ranch.
- Informed Attribute: Most of the cowboys are labeled with nicknames in the opening sequence of every episode, yet are never referred to by these nicknames in the show itself.
- It May Help You on Your Quest: Traders, drifters, and Indians occasionally come by the ranch with provisions.
- Mama Bear: Similarly to Mr. Cook, quite a few of Mrs. Cook's decisions/suggestions are, according to her, in the best interests of her daughters.
- Mood Whiplash: A celebration in episode 3 is immediately followed by 10 of the ranch's 19 horses being stolen under the cover of darkness by Comanche rustlers.
- Papa Wolf: Say what you will about his managerial skills, Mr. Cook will not stand for anyone badmouthing or potentially putting his wife and daughters in danger.
- Pet the Dog: Jared mentions taking a shine to the Cooks' youngest daughter, and goes to her to make shirts for him.
