Podcast Summary: "Wanted 50-08-11 06 The Case of Kenneth 'Two-gun' Wagner"

Release Date: June 26, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: The Case of Kenneth 'Two-gun' Wagner

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "The Case of Kenneth 'Two-gun' Wagner", host Walter McGraw takes listeners back to the tumultuous era of the Golden Age of Radio. This episode delves deep into the life and legend of Kenneth Wagner, a man whose story intertwines heroism, legend, and the relentless pursuit by law enforcement across the Tri-State area.

Background of Kenneth Wagner

The narrative begins in the early spring of 1920, setting the stage in the tri-state region of North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. Kenneth Wagner, affectionately known as "Big Boy" or "Spacho", emerges as a complex figure—both a legend and a convicted murderer.

• Family Insights:

  • Ollie Cunningham, Kenneth’s sister, provides a personal glimpse into his early life:
    “Kenny was a very honest, truthful kind of boy. He learned to shoot on the farm at home...”
    (02:33)

• Circus Life:

  • Wagner's journey takes him to the circus at Gate City at the age of 14, where he hones his skills as a bareback rider and a horseman.
    (02:55)

• Transition to Loosedale:

  • Seeking stardom, Wagner leaves the circus and moves to Loosedale, Mississippi, where he becomes involved in transporting moonshine, a risky venture that sets the stage for his infamous reputation.
    (03:39)

The Manhunt Begins

Kenneth Wagner's downfall begins with a seemingly minor incident—a disputed theft of a wristwatch. This event spirals into a nationwide manhunt.

• The Arrest:

  • Wagner is apprehended while walking down railroad tracks, falsely accused of stealing a watch planted in his coat.
    (04:41)
  • Despite proclaiming his innocence, the case remains unresolved.
    (04:51)

• The Great Escape:

  • After a month in custody, Wagner ingeniously escapes by sawing his way out of prison, setting off a six-week period of freedom in his beloved hill country.
    (04:59)

Escalation of Violence

Wagner's actions lead to multiple killings, further complicating his legend.

• First Killing:

  • On the night before his planned marriage (December 24, 1924), Wagner is involved in the killing of Deputy Sheriff Murdoch McIntosh.
    “Kenneth Wagner had walked out of that cabin with his arms raised...”
    (06:23)

• Subsequent Killings:

  • The manhunt intensifies, resulting in two more deaths as law enforcement scrambles to capture Wagner.
    (09:14)

Trials and Imprisonment

Wagner faces legal battles across states, reflecting the complexities of jurisdiction and legal proceedings of the time.

• Mississippi Trial:

  • Initially convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death, Wagner's conviction is overturned, granting him a new trial.
    (14:08)

• Further Escapes:

  • Wagner escapes again, this time fleeing to Mexico and then returning to settle in Texarkana, where additional murders are attributed to him.
    (15:21)

• Final Capture:

  • Federal authorities join the hunt, leading to Wagner's eventual capture in Virginia. He waives his preliminary hearing, eager to share his side of the story.
    (20:24)

Life in Prison and Subsequent Escape

Wagner's time in Mississippi State Prison at Parchman is marked by unexpected behavior and further escapes.

• Model Prisoner:

  • Despite his notorious reputation, Wagner becomes a trustee guard, training police dogs and aiding in prison security.
    (18:03)

• Escape in 1940:

  • Demonstrating his resourcefulness, Wagner escapes from Parchman by overpowering a guard and stealing his vehicle.
    (19:36)
  • Despite additional charges, Wagner remains elusive until his final capture.
    (20:24)

Final Reflections and Legacy

The episode concludes with reflections from Wagner’s brother, Kelsey Wagner, highlighting the duality of Kenneth Wagner’s character—both a hardened criminal and a man seeking redemption.

• Kelsey's Perspective:

  • “Kenny feels that he has paid his debt to society with 21 years of his life... His main ambition is to help youngsters that might get on the wrong track...”
    (25:00)

• Ambiguous Justice:

  • The episode leaves listeners pondering the complexities of justice and the blurred lines between legend and reality.
    (27:02)

Notable Quotes

• Ollie Cunningham (Kenneth’s sister):
  “Kenny was a very honest, truthful kind of boy. He learned to shoot on the farm at home...”
  (02:33)

• Kelsey Wagner (Brother of Kenneth):
  “Kenny feels that he has paid his debt to society with 21 years of his life. His main ambition and the rest of his life is to help youngsters that might get on the wrong track...”
  (25:00)

• Howard I. Bobbitt (FBI Agent):
  “Wagner was taken before a United States Commissioner. He waived preliminary hearing saying he didn't want to deal with small shots. He wanted to tell his story only to big shots.”
  (21:59)

Conclusion

"The Case of Kenneth 'Two-gun' Wagner" offers a riveting exploration of a man whose life was marked by both legend and infamy. Through firsthand accounts, dramatic reenactments, and meticulous narration, Walter McGraw paints a comprehensive portrait of a complex individual whose story remains etched in the annals of American folklore. This episode not only entertains but also invites listeners to reflect on the nature of justice, redemption, and the enduring impact of legendary figures in our collective consciousness.

For those who haven't tuned into this episode, "The Case of Kenneth 'Two-gun' Wagner" stands as a testament to the captivating storytelling of the Golden Age of Radio, bringing history to life through immersive narratives and compelling characters.