Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio) Episode: Boston Blackie and This Is Your FBI
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
Release Date: January 15, 2025

Overview

In this episode of Case Closed!, RelicRadio.com delves into two riveting stories from the golden age of radio: an enthralling episode of Boston Blackie titled "Boston Blackie and This Is Your FBI" and an engaging segment from This Is Your FBI titled "The Souvenir Gun." Both narratives showcase classic elements of crime, mystery, and intrigue, bringing to life the timeless appeal of old-time radio dramas.

Boston Blackie: "This Is Your FBI"

Setting the Stage

The episode begins with Boston Blackie, a charming and resourceful detective, navigating a complex case involving mistaken identity and a sinister plot to manipulate the truth.

Key Plot Points:

1. Joe Harvey's Transformation:

   • Joe Harvey, a character desperate to evade the law, collaborates with Dr. Weavers to alter his appearance. Harvey meticulously plans his new identity to ensure he remains unrecognizable to the authorities.
   • Notable Quote:
     Harvey: "I want to see myself. I want to get outside and see people again."
     (Timestamp: 02:15)

2. The Mistaken Identity Scheme:

   • After his transformation, Harvey assumes the identity of Donald Tate, a suspect wanted for killing a police officer. This deceit leads to a series of confrontations and misunderstandings.
   • Blackie's Insight:
     Blackie: "I know that Inspector Faraday does not have the real Tate in jail."
     (Timestamp: 15:45)

3. Inspector Faraday's Investigation:

   • Inspector Faraday becomes suspicious of the identity swap and seeks Blackie's assistance to uncover the truth. Their collaboration highlights the dynamic between law enforcement and Blackie's unorthodox methods.
   • Inspector Faraday:
     "We got Donald Tate and he's screaming he wants to see you. Don't count on it. You're Tate."
     (Timestamp: 18:30)

4. The Ultimate Confrontation:

   • A climactic showdown ensues when Blackie confronts the deceitful plot, leading to the unraveling of Tate's schemes and the restoration of Joe Harvey's true identity.
   • Final Exchange:
     Harvey: "I grabbed 50,000 bucks from my firm. I went up to Doc Weavers to have my face changed so nobody'd know me."
     (Timestamp: 25:50)

Conclusion: The episode masterfully intertwines themes of identity, trust, and redemption, with Boston Blackie once again proving his prowess in solving intricate cases.

This Is Your FBI: "The Souvenir Gun"

Introduction by Equitable Life Assurance Society: The segment begins with a public service announcement promoting Equitable Life Assurance Society's offerings, seamlessly transitioning into the FBI's investigative narrative.

Key Plot Points:

1. Post-War Crime Surge:

   • The story highlights the rise in crime following the war, attributing it to societal changes rather than the armed forces' training. This sets the backdrop for the central mystery involving a stolen German Luger.
   • Narrator:
     "It is not a fact, however, that the new criminals are a result of the practice which the army and Navy gave our younger generation in the art of murder."
     (Timestamp: 35:20)

2. The Daring Robbery:

   • A detailed account of a recent hold-up at a roadhouse, where a messenger carrying money is ambushed. The use of a souvenir German Luger becomes a critical clue in identifying the perpetrator.
   • Detective Sergeant Grant:
     "The weapon the holdup man used was a German Luger. Messenger knows guns he recognizes."
     (Timestamp: 40:10)

3. Investigation and Identification:

   • FBI Special Agent Jim Taylor collaborates with local authorities to trace the criminal, leading to the identification of Jack Belmont, a deserted soldier with a penchant for firearms.
   • Special Agent Taylor:
     "If he's come out of hiding, he'll undoubtedly attend another job. We've got to pick him up before he does."
     (Timestamp: 50:35)

4. The Trap and Capture:

   • Utilizing collected evidence and strategic planning, the FBI sets a trap that successfully apprehends Belmont. The meticulous investigation underscores the effectiveness of teamwork between local police and federal agents.
   • Final Report:
     "Jack Belmont was turned over to the local authorities and convicted of first-degree murder."
     (Timestamp: 1:10:50)

Conclusion: "The Souvenir Gun" exemplifies the FBI's commitment to solving crimes through diligent investigation and collaboration, highlighting the perennial battle against post-war criminal elements.

Notable Highlights:

• Character Development: Both stories feature well-developed characters whose motivations and actions drive the narratives forward, providing depth to the classic crime stories.

• Timeless Themes: Themes such as identity manipulation, justice, and the societal impact of war remain relevant, showcasing the enduring nature of old-time radio dramas.

• Engaging Dialogue: The dialogues are sharp and engaging, offering listeners a vivid auditory experience that captures the essence of the golden age of radio.

Quotes Compilation:

1. Joe Harvey: "I want to see myself. I want to get outside and see people again."
   (Boston Blackie, 02:15)

2. Inspector Faraday: "We got Donald Tate and he's screaming he wants to see you. Don't count on it. You're Tate."
   (Boston Blackie, 18:30)

3. Harvey: "I grabbed 50,000 bucks from my firm. I went up to Doc Weavers to have my face changed so nobody'd know me."
   (Boston Blackie, 25:50)

4. Narrator: "It is not a fact, however, that the new criminals are a result of the practice which the army and Navy gave our younger generation in the art of murder."
   (This Is Your FBI, 35:20)

5. Detective Sergeant Grant: "The weapon the holdup man used was a German Luger. Messenger knows guns he recognizes."
   (This Is Your FBI, 40:10)

6. Special Agent Taylor: "If he's come out of hiding, he'll undoubtedly attend another job. We've got to pick him up before he does."
   (This Is Your FBI, 50:35)

7. Final Report: "Jack Belmont was turned over to the local authorities and convicted of first-degree murder."
   (This Is Your FBI, 1:10:50)

Conclusion

This episode of Case Closed! adeptly revives classic crime stories, offering both nostalgia and timeless storytelling. Whether you're a long-time fan of old-time radio or a newcomer intrigued by classic mysteries, Boston Blackie and This Is Your FBI provide an engaging listen that underscores the enduring allure of well-crafted crime dramas.

Listen Again

For those who wish to revisit these captivating tales, Case Closed! is available for streaming at RelicRadio.com, where a treasure trove of old-time radio shows awaits nostalgic ears and new listeners alike.