The Legacy of the Buffalo Tro and Its Southern Illinois Roots

On today’s episode of The Recipe Box, we’re talking with Brian Croft, Director of the Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center in Southern Illinois, about a long‑running Southern Illinois University food tradition.

The Buffalo Tro was started more than 60 years ago by outdoor‑education pioneer and SIU professor L.B. Sharp. Guests at the event enjoy steaks cooked over hot coals, storytelling, and a sense of community as they gather to celebrate Sharp’s legacy.

We talk with Brian about the Buffalo Tro’s name and history, outdoor cooking techniques, and the ways food and storytelling bring people together.

The 2026 Buffalo Tro will be held on November 20th. For more information on this year’s event, visit https://ton.siu.edu/community-events/buffalo-tro.php 

Special Thanks

Production: Benjy Jeffords, SIU School of Journalism and Advertising 

Marketing: Emma Thompson, Salukis AdLab 

Music: MisunderStudios https://www.misunderstudios.com/

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