Frontier Town Episode: "Maria" (52-101-7 04 Maria)
Released June 22, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

Introduction

In this captivating episode of Frontier Town, titled "Maria," listeners are transported back to the tumultuous days of the American West. Set in the bustling frontier town of Dos Rios, the story weaves a tale of intrigue, betrayal, and redemption centered around a stolen map to the fabled Lost Continent Mine.

Main Characters

• Chad Remington: A charismatic lawyer with a rugged demeanor, Chad is the primary protagonist striving to restore justice in Dos Rios.
• Cherokee O'Bannon: The only lawyer in Dos Rios, Cherokee brings wisdom and experience, acting as a mentor to Chad.
• Marie Hoxie: A mysterious and alluring woman seeking assistance to recover her family's stolen map.
• Pharaoh Jack Folsom: A cunning gambler with a hidden agenda, entangled in the theft of the coveted map.
• Dan Hoxie: Marie’s father, a determined mining engineer desperate to reclaim what was taken from his family.

Plot Overview

A Chance Encounter [02:04]

The episode begins with Chad Remington and Cherokee O'Bannon discussing the lesser-known town of Dos Rios. Cherokee introduces himself as the town's only lawyer and hints at the complexities of frontier justice.

Notable Quote:
[02:04] Cherokee O'Bannon: "You folks ever hear of a town called Dos Rios? Like as not, you haven't."

The Incident [03:23 - 06:25]

While conversing near El Toro Creek, Chad and Cherokee witness a sudden commotion involving a runaway buggy driven by Marie Hoxie. As Marie struggles to control her buggy, Chad attempts to rescue her, leading to a brief altercation where he nearly drowns her.

Notable Quotes:
[03:23] Cherokee O'Bannon: "Well, so you noticed her too, huh?"
[04:09] Marie Hoxie: "Oh. Oh. Now, slow down. Please slow down."

Cherokee steps in to assist Marie, who soon reveals her predicament: her father’s map to the Lost Continent Mine was stolen, and they suspect Pharaoh Jack Folsom's involvement.

The Investigation Begins [06:37 - 12:16]

Marie seeks Cherokee’s legal expertise, expressing her urgent need to recover the stolen map to ensure her safety. Initially reluctant, Cherokee contemplates the authenticity of Marie's claims, especially after discovering bullet holes matching those from Marie's buggy.

Notable Quote:
[09:00] Marie Hoxie: "Believe me, I won't be safe until I get back the map to the Lost Continent Mine."

Chad encourages Cherokee to take the case, leading to their decision to confront Folsom and uncover the truth behind the map's disappearance.

Confrontation and Revelation [13:26 - 19:53]

As Cherokee delves deeper, he and Chad uncover that Pharaoh Jack Folsom possesses the stolen map. A tense showdown ensues in the hotel where Folsom, attempting to reclaim the map, threatens Cherokee. A physical struggle results in Folsom being subdued, allowing Cherokee and Chad to secure the map.

Notable Quotes:
[17:57] Chad Remington: "Don't you forget it."
[18:34] Pharaoh Jack Folsom: "You heard me. I told you to keep out of this."

Twists and Betrayals [20:12 - 24:55]

Just as peace seems attainable, Marie’s father, Dan Hoxie, arrives in Dos Rios, revealing his partnership with Folsom in the original theft. Tensions escalate as Dan demands the map’s return, leading to a standoff. Amidst the chaos, it’s uncovered that Marie orchestrated the entire scenario to manipulate both Cherokee and Folsom for her gain.

Notable Quotes:
[23:05] Cherokee O'Bannon: "To me, not to us. You and your enchanting daughter."
[24:35] Marie Hoxie: "Folsom, drop that gun."

Climax and Resolution [24:55 - 26:43]

A final confrontation breaks out, resulting in Pharaoh Jack Folsom being disarmed and taken into custody. Marie, realizing the depth of her deceit, faces the consequences of her actions. Cherokee reflects on the events, while Chad humorously chastises him for his reluctance and eventual bravery.

Notable Quotes:
[25:04] Marie Hoxie: "Let go of my wrist, Chad."
[26:43] Cherokee O'Bannon: "At least you don't need it. The memory of Ms. Hoxie's perfume seems to act on you like a tonic."

Conclusion

"Maria" delivers a gripping narrative filled with classic Western tropes—duels, deceit, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Through sharp dialogue and unexpected plot twists, the episode highlights the complexities of trust and morality on the frontier. By the end, Dos Rios finds a semblance of peace, albeit with lessons learned the hard way.

Notable Quotes:
[27:43] Chad Remington: "Well, my boy, even in me hope springs eternal, Sam."

Final Thoughts

Harold's Frontier Town masterfully encapsulates the spirit of Old Time Radio, blending engaging storytelling with dynamic character interactions. "Maria" stands out as a testament to the enduring allure of Western adventures, promising listeners more thrilling tales in future episodes.

Thank you for tuning into Harold's Old Time Radio. Stay tuned for more adventures from the Golden Age of Radio.