Quick Summary
Investigations at a renowned Montana battlefield, a 19th‑century steamboat, and a deserted frontier ghost town have unearthed new evidence. These clues together expose unexpected truths about the Wild West, challenging long‑held assumptions and revealing previously hidden aspects of the era.
About This Program ✦
The Wild West is a programme formatted as a single episode, classed under the genre of historical investigation. It aims to shed light on the mythic period of American expansion by focusing on tangible evidence rather than legend. The series adopts a straightforward style, guiding viewers through each discovery as it unfolds. In this installment, the narrative centres on three distinct sources of information. First, clues unearthed at a well‑known battleground in Montana are examined. Second, artefacts recovered from a 19th‑century steamboat are brought to light. Finally, the remnants of a frontier ghost town are explored, each offering fresh perspectives on the era. The programme demonstrates how each fragment of evidence challenges conventional stories about the Wild West. By analysing the battlefield remnants, the team uncovers details that differ from popular accounts. The steamboat findings reveal aspects of river trade and daily life that are seldom highlighted, while the ghost town remains a silent testament to settlement patterns. Through these investigations, the episode presents surprising truths that reshape our understanding of frontier history. Viewers are invited to reconsider long‑held assumptions as the evidence from Montana, the steamboat and the ghost town intertwines. Ultimately, the programme offers a concise yet compelling look at how material clues can rewrite narratives of the American West.
Drain the Oceans broadcasts on National Geographic Channel HD at 4:00pm, Wednesday, 11 February 2026. (Subtitles)



