Ridiculous History: The US Camel Corps, Part One: Several People With A Really Weird Dream
Released on March 4, 2025 by iHeartPodcasts
Introduction
In the premiere episode of "Ridiculous History," hosts Ben Bolan and Noel Brown embark on an extraordinary journey into the lesser-known and utterly peculiar chapter of American military history: the United States Camel Corps. Joined by special guest Jonathan Strickland, the trio delves deep into the ambitious yet bizarre attempt by the US Army in the mid-19th century to integrate camels into military logistics.
Setting the Stage: Camels in Modern Times
The episode opens with Ben and Noel humorously discussing their experiences with camels, setting a lighthearted tone for the historical exploration. Noel remarks from Doha, Qatar, where they are attending the Web Summit, highlighting the camel's unique presence:
Noel Brown [04:20]: "It's like 90% fat and apparently you put it in stews and it just... all that good fat just dissolves and gives it a real ooh my me."
Ben adds an affectionate yet comedic observation about camels' physical features:
Ben Bolan [04:50]: "They store delicious fat. Let's be honest."
Historical Context: The Need for Desert-Adapted Pack Animals
Transitioning from personal anecdotes to historical analysis, the hosts explain the logistical nightmares faced by the US during westward expansion in the 1830s. The traditional pack animals—mules and horses—struggled against the harsh desert climates, prompting military officers to seek alternatives better suited to arid environments.
Noel Brown [12:36]: "They're sassy boys."
Major George H. Crosman and the Birth of an Idea
Central to the narrative is Major George H. Crosman, whose fascination with camels leads him to propose the establishment of the Camel Corps. Ben narrates Crosman's obsession and dedication:
Ben Bolan [14:07]: "This guy gets super into camels... On his own, of his own volition, he creates a cartoonishly thorough study about camels in the United States in 1836."
Despite initial skepticism and administrative indifference, Crosman's persistence lays the groundwork for future developments.
Henry C. Wayne and the Expansion of the Camel Corps
The story progresses to 1855, seven years after Crosman's initial proposal, when Henry C. Wayne takes up the mantle. Targeting Senator Jefferson Davis, Wayne secures $30,000 (equivalent to over $1 million today) from Congress to purchase 33 camels. The hosts highlight the logistical challenges of transporting camels across the Atlantic and the rigorous training required for soldiers to handle these unconventional pack animals.
Noel Brown [23:17]: "US$30,000 in 1855 would be $1,088,293.10 in 2025. Wow. Okay, not too bad."
Logistical Hurdles and Transportation
Ben and Noel detail the Herculean task of shipping camels from the Middle East to Texas aboard the USS Supply. Jonathan adds a poignant moment about the hardships faced during the crossing:
Jonathan Strickland [45:14]: "We had some losses, obviously. We also had some gains along that."
Despite losing one camel during the voyage, the mission results in a net gain with the birth of six camels onboard, bringing the total to 34 upon arrival.
Cultural and Practical Adaptations
The hosts explore the cultural exchanges and practical adaptations required to integrate camels into the US Army. From modifying ships to accommodate the animals to training soldiers in camel handling, the episode underscores the innovative yet unconventional nature of the Camel Corps initiative.
Noel Brown [19:57]: "They are like an anthropomorphic succulent."
Anecdotes and Humorous Interludes
Throughout the episode, Ben, Noel, and Jonathan infuse humor and personal stories, such as Ben's childhood experiences with camels at "Twitty City" and Jonathan's Renaissance festival camel ride. These interludes provide a relatable and entertaining contrast to the historical discourse.
Noel Brown [39:58]: "Wow."
Conclusion and Tease for Part Two
As the episode wraps up, the hosts tease the continuation of the story with promises of more adventures and the enigmatic "Legend of the Red Ghost." They extend gratitude to their guest, Jonathan Strickland, and hint at the intricacies of the Camel Corps' future endeavors.
Ben Bolan [47:18]: "And in business, that's what we call a cliffhanger, folks. This is part one of the US Camel Corps."
Notable Quotes
- Noel Brown [04:20]: "It's like 90% fat and apparently you put it in stews and it just... all that good fat just dissolves and gives it a real ooh my me."
- Ben Bolan [14:07]: "This guy gets super into camels... On his own, of his own volition, he creates a cartoonishly thorough study about camels in the United States in 1836."
- Noel Brown [23:17]: "US$30,000 in 1855 would be $1,088,293.10 in 2025. Wow. Okay, not too bad."
- Jonathan Strickland [45:14]: "We had some losses, obviously. We also had some gains along that."
- Noel Brown [19:57]: "They are like an anthropomorphic succulent."
- Ben Bolan [47:18]: "And in business, that's what we call a cliffhanger, folks. This is part one of the US Camel Corps."
Final Thoughts
"The US Camel Corps, Part One" serves as a captivating introduction to a forgotten facet of American history, blending thorough research with engaging storytelling and humor. Ben, Noel, and Jonathan skillfully navigate the complexities of military logistics, cultural exchanges, and the eccentricities of integrating camels into the US Army, setting the stage for an intriguing continuation in the next episode.