Old Time Radio Westerns

Episode: Apache Peril | The Lone Ranger (12-19-52)

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: January 9, 2026

Episode Overview

In this digitally restored classic, “Apache Peril,” The Lone Ranger returns to the lawless frontier to thwart a deadly alliance between outlaws and Apache warriors conspiring to overrun Collinsville and steal its gold. The story unfolds with high tension as the masked hero and his steadfast companion, Tonto, rally the townsfolk for a desperate defense, culminating in a nail-biting siege and a timely cavalry rescue. This episode exemplifies the series’ themes of courage, justice, and unity in the face of overwhelming peril.

Key Discussion Points and Plot Breakdown

1. Setting the Scene: Trouble Brewing in Collinsville

• The Lone Ranger spots notorious outlaw Luke Rafferty, suspiciously traveling alone near Collinsville. With his keen eye, he suspects a plot and sends Tonto to investigate the town.

  Lone Ranger (to Tonto): “There's no doubt about it, Kimo Sabe. It's Luke Rafferty... It's not like Rafferty to travel alone. What him do in Collinsville?” (04:21)

• Tonto discovers Rafferty, under the alias “Luke Reynolds”, is infiltrating the local mine as a “mining engineer,” prompting the need to warn the mine owner, Jim Collins.

• A beautifully rendered woodland encounter introduces Collins’ daughter, Marianne, and her loyal dog, Pal. Marianne becomes an unexpected but brave messenger for the Lone Ranger.

  Marianne: “His name isn't Reynolds. It's Rafferty, and he's a crook! The masked man told me." (07:59)

2. The Threat Emerges: Outlaws Colluding with Apaches

• The Lone Ranger and Tonto track Rafferty to a clandestine meeting in Lost Valley, observing a “council of war” with Apaches, renegade whites (including Black Bart), and the infamous Chief Red Fox.

  Lone Ranger (passing binoculars): “Here, take a look. Apaches.”
  Tonto: “That’s right. White men too. Outlaws and renegades.”

• Rafferty’s plan: Unleash the Apaches and outlaws on Collinsville in exchange for gold, which will be used to buy rifles and armaments.

3. Town in Peril: Rallying the Defenders

• The Lone Ranger organizes the frightened townspeople, delivering a stirring speech on unity and sacrifice:

  Lone Ranger (to townspeople, 15:53):
  “We must apply an old principle if we're going to survive. United we stand, divided we fall.... The only place that can be defended is the mine.”

• The town bands together, fortifying the mine and reluctantly accepting they must abandon their homes and focus on defending the gold, which represents their shared future.

4. Siege of the Mine: A Battle of Wits and Endurance

• The Apaches and outlaws attack. Collinsville is set ablaze, forcing a retreat to the prepared mine.

  Lone Ranger (during first assault): “Open fire!” (19:02)

• Multiple waves of attack follow, with defenders suffering dwindling ammunition over a grueling five-night siege.
• As supplies run out, the Lone Ranger rallies a last-ditch defense, preparing for hand-to-hand combat.

5. Climax and Rescue: Cavalry Arrives at Dawn

• In the direst moment, as the attackers breach the mine, the bugle of the cavalry sounds through the dawn.

  Collins: “They're here... We're saved. The army!” (21:19)

• The cavalry routs the invaders, capturing outlaws and saving the besieged townsfolk.

6. Resolution: Rebuilding from Ashes

• In the aftermath, Collins pledges the mine’s gold will rebuild the community, affirming collective ownership and solidarity.

  Collins: “You mean they're not just men and women who work for me, Colonel. They're my friends, my family.”

• The Colonel and townspeople reflect on the lesson of resilience and the inspiration drawn from the Lone Ranger.

Memorable Quotes & Moments

• Marianne's Innocence and Insight (06:01):

  “I’m not frightened. He’s Pal, like you. I know you won’t hurt me. But you’re an outlaw, aren’t you? You’re wearing a mask.”

• On Unity and Defense (15:53):

  “We must apply an old principle if we're going to survive. United we stand, divided we fall.” — The Lone Ranger

• On Bravery and Community (22:17):

  “They're not just men and women who work for me, Colonel. They're my friends, my family. As much as Marianne and Mariah are. We fought together well. And now we'll build together for the future.”

• A Lasting Tribute to the Legend (end):

  “Meeting him and knowing him, somehow we all seem to have borrowed some of his strength and courage... He's the Lone Ranger.” — Collins

Notable Timestamps

• 04:21: Lone Ranger and Tonto spot Rafferty and discuss his suspicious behavior.
• 06:01 - 07:14: Marianne’s encounter with the Lone Ranger and her mission as messenger.
• 13:33: Lone Ranger and Tonto observe the council of war in Lost Valley.
• 15:53: Speech to townsfolk about unity and preparing the mine for defense.
• 19:02: The first frontal assault on the mine.
• 20:20: Final night—defenders out of ammunition, preparing for hand-to-hand combat.
• 21:19: Arrival of the cavalry, turning point and rescue.
• 22:17: Collins’ moving words about rebuilding the community.
• Final Minute: Reflection on the Lone Ranger’s legacy and inspiration.

Episode Tone and Style

This episode channels a classic Western atmosphere—full of courage, suspense, and community spirit—delivered with earnest, dramatic radio performances and enhanced by the podcast’s expert audio restoration. Dialogues are delivered with conviction, and moments of tension transition seamlessly into heartfelt resolution, embodying the enduring mythos of The Lone Ranger.