Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Wild Bill Hickock ep008 A Charge on Devils Mountain
Release Date: July 29, 2025
Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
Description: Reliving the Golden Age of Radio with classic stories featuring iconic characters like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more.

Summary of "Wild Bill Hickock ep008 A Charge on Devils Mountain"

Introduction

"Wild Bill Hickok ep008 A Charge on Devils Mountain" transports listeners back to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West, where heroism, loyalty, and outlaws shape the destiny of small towns. This episode features the charismatic duo, Wild Bill Hickok (voiced by Guy Madison) and his trusty sidekick Jingles (voiced by Andy Devine), as they navigate the perils of Flat Rock City and confront the notorious Pete Jennings and his gang.

Arrival in Flat Rock City

[02:15] The episode opens with Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles arriving in the quiet town of Flat Rock City. They are greeted by Pappy Sparks, an elderly man teaching his grandson, Clay, the art of sending messages via telegraph.

Pappy Sparks: "That's it, boy. That's it. There. How'd they do, Pappy?"
Pappy: "Clay, boy, you did just fine. Just like I taught you."
[02:45]

Pappy reveals that Sheriff Jennings has summoned Wild Bill to deal with the escalating threat of Pete Jennings and his gang, who have been terrorizing the town.

Tensions with the Sheriff and Pappy Sparks

[05:30] The local sheriff confronts Pappy Sparks, expressing frustration over the sheriff's inaction in capturing the Jennings gang.

Sheriff: "If I was younger, just a few years mind you, I wouldn't be sitting around here like you are. I'd be out after them, hombres."
Pappy: "I've had enough of this from that Jennings outfit. Give me that rifle."
[05:45]

A confrontation ensues, highlighting the sheriff's reliance on Wild Bill Hickok to resolve the conflict, pointing out the town's fear and the sheriff's inability to muster a posse.

The Jennings Gang's Attack and Pappy Sparks' Death

[10:00] As tensions mount, Pete Jennings and his gang launch an attack on Flat Rock City, wreaking havoc and culminating in a tragic confrontation where Pappy Sparks is shot by Jennings.

Sheriff: "Jennings shot him. He's lying on the ground."
Pappy: "Jennings gang has started something that nobody can stop."
[10:30]

Pappy's death acts as a catalyst, pushing Wild Bill and Jingles to take decisive action against the outlaws.

Arrival of Wild Bill Hickok and the Town's Debate

[15:20] Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles arrive in the town square, receiving mixed reactions from the townsfolk. Some believe in Wild Bill's prowess, while others, influenced by the sheriff, advocate for leaving town to avoid further bloodshed.

Jingles: "Bill, are you sure you're feeling all right?"
Wild Bill: "I'm feeling fine, Jingles. Well, I admit there's danger to the folks of Flat Rock City if we stayed."
[15:45]

A town meeting ensues where the community votes on whether Wild Bill and Jingles should stay and confront the Jennings gang or heed Sheriff Jennings' advice to leave.

Wild Bill Hickok's Decision to Stay

[20:10] Despite the majority voting to leave, Wild Bill decides to stay, emphasizing the importance of standing up against tyranny and protecting the innocent.

Wild Bill: "I figure they need saving more than ever. They're scared and need saving not only from Pete Jennings and his gang, but also from themselves."
[20:45]

His determination inspires a small group of loyal townsfolk to join him in taking a stand against the outlaws.

The Showdown on Devil's Mountain

[25:30] The climax unfolds at Devil's Mountain, where Pete Jennings and his gang have fortified their hideout. Wild Bill, Jingles, and their allies execute a bold plan involving dynamite and strategic maneuvers to catch the gang off guard.

Wild Bill: "We're gonna surprise him. Here's the way I got it planned."
Pete Jennings: "You think you're surprising us tonight? You're gonna get it, Jennings."
[25:50]

A fierce battle ensues, showcasing Wild Bill's sharpshooting skills and strategic genius. Just as the gang believes they've gained the upper hand, Wild Bill's plan reaches fruition with unexpected reinforcements from the U.S. Army, leading to the downfall of Pete Jennings.

Conclusion and Aftermath

[35:00] With the Jennings gang defeated, the town of Flat Rock City celebrates their newfound peace. Sheriff Jennings acknowledges Wild Bill's heroism, and Pappy Sparks' legacy is honored.

Sheriff Jennings: "Wild Bill Hickok, you got us. But it took the US army to do it."
Wild Bill: "Your whole pack of bad men captured by three men, an old timer and a kid."
[35:30]

The episode concludes with Wild Bill and Jingles riding off into the sunset, ready for their next adventure, while the townsfolk reflect on the importance of courage and community.

Themes and Insights

• Courage vs. Fear: The town's initial reluctance to stand up against the Jennings gang highlights the universal struggle between courage and fear.

• Leadership and Responsibility: Wild Bill's unwavering commitment to justice emphasizes the role of true leadership in times of crisis.

• Community and Solidarity: The eventual support from the townsfolk underscores the strength found in community solidarity against common threats.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [02:45]

  Pappy Sparks: "Clay, boy, you did just fine. Just like I taught you."

• [05:45]

  Pappy Sparks: "I've had enough of this from that Jennings outfit. Give me that rifle."

• [10:30]

  Pappy Sparks: "Jennings gang has started something that nobody can stop."

• [15:45]

  Wild Bill: "I'm feeling fine, Jingles. Well, I admit there's danger to the folks of Flat Rock City if we stayed."

• [20:45]

  Wild Bill: "I figure they need saving more than ever. They're scared and need saving not only from Pete Jennings and his gang, but also from themselves."

• [25:50]

  Pete Jennings: "You think you're surprising us tonight? You're gonna get it, Jennings."

• [35:30]

  Wild Bill: "Your whole pack of bad men captured by three men, an old timer and a kid."

Conclusion

"Wild Bill Hickock ep008 A Charge on Devils Mountain" masterfully blends action, drama, and moral lessons, capturing the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. Through its engaging narrative and memorable characters, the episode delivers a timeless story of bravery, leadership, and the enduring fight against injustice. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to the series, this episode offers an immersive journey into the Wild West, enriched with authentic radio storytelling and classic heroics.

Production Credits:
Cast: Colleen Collins, Barton Yarborough, Fred Shields, Stan Farrar, Bill Boucher, Jack Moyles
Director: Paul Pierce
Music: Dick Laurent
Produced by: David Hire Production
Host: Charlie Lyon

Sponsored By:
While the episode features sponsorship segments for Kellogg's Corn Pops and Chumba Casino, these have been omitted from the summary to focus solely on the content narrative as per the listener's guidance.