Ep. 162 - The Old Ozarks - What's in a Name?

In this debut episode of The Old Ozarks, historian Brooks Blevins dives deep into the origin of that peculiar word—“Ozark”—and charts its journey across maps, cultures, and centuries. If you've ever wondered where the name came from, how it got tied to Arkansas and Missouri, or why it doesn’t include parts of the land it once did, this episode is a storytelling masterclass in regional history. Summary: From 17th-century French explorers to 20th-century federal agencies, the Ozarks have worn many names—and claimed many shapes. In this inaugural "long sweetening," Dr. Blevins unpacks the etymology, evolution, and even political reshaping of the Ozark identity. Learn how rivers, ridges, steamboats, and even naval vessels played roles in shaping what we now call the Ozarks. And yes—he finally settles the score between the Ozark and the Washitaw Mountains. (Spoiler: The U.S. Board on Geographic Names had a hand in it.) What is The Old Ozarks? The Old Ozarks is your gateway to the forgotten history of the Ozarks. Hosted by renowned historian Dr. Brooks Blevins, the leading authority on the region’s history, this podcast explores the lives, legends, and landscapes that have shaped this unique region. Whether you’re a native Ozarker, a new resident, or a curious listener, join us as we share the stories that make the Ozarks special and connect us to our past.