Episode Summary: Avalanche in Arrow Pass | The Cisco Kid (03-30-54)

Introduction

"Avalanche in Arrow Pass," featuring the legendary Cisco Kid, is a captivating installment of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast hosted by Andrew Rines. Released on February 4, 2025, this episode immerses listeners in a meticulously restored classic Western radio drama, enhanced with rich and clear audio that brings the Wild West to life. Set against the backdrop of railroad construction in the untamed frontier, the story weaves suspense, betrayal, and heroism into a gripping narrative.

Characters

• Cisco Kid (Jack Mather): The charismatic and cunning protagonist, often likened to a Robin Hood figure of the Old West.
• Pancho (Harry Lang): Cisco Kid's loyal and witty partner.
• Joe Metz: The unscrupulous private railroad marshal of Construction Camp 16.
• Hal Shoaff: Deputy to Joe Metz, complicit in their dubious activities.
• Senior Wolford: Superintendent of the railroad camp, eventually reveals deeper motives.
• Mitts: Shoaff's henchman, eager to seize the payroll.
• O'Connor: The ambushed mail rider carrying a substantial payroll.
• Raymond & Isabel: Subplot characters involved in a domestic dispute.

Plot Summary

Arrival and Suspicion

The episode opens with Cisco Kid and his partner Pancho riding into Arrow Pass during the early spring, where lingering winter snows complicate their journey. Their mission is to visit their friend Senior Wolford at Construction Camp 16. As they navigate the treacherous pass, they encounter Wolford, who is apprehensive and dismissive of their presence.

Cisco Kid [06:18]: "Now, we're just entering the pass, amigo, and, well, there's a rider just ahead."

Despite their friendly demeanor, Wolford remains suspicious, creating tension that foreshadows forthcoming conflicts.

The Ambush

Upon reaching the pass, Cisco Kid and Pancho discover the lifeless body of O'Connor, the mail rider, indicating a sinister plot against him. Traces of a struggle and footprints suggest foul play, deepening the mystery.

Cisco Kid [11:03]: "That is something I cannot tell you, Chico, because I do not know."

Determined to uncover the truth, they follow the evidence back to the railroad camp, where tensions escalate as Railroad Marshal Metz and his deputy Shoaff attempt to cover their tracks by concealing the stolen payroll.

Confrontation at the Camp

In a dramatic turn, Metz and Shoaff confront Cisco Kid and Pancho at Camp 16, accusing them of murder and theft. Despite proclaiming their innocence, the evidence against them mounts, leading to their arrest and confinement in the camp's jail car.

Shoaff [21:20]: "Maybe as railroad marshal of this here camp. Boys, I shouldn't be telling you this, but the fact remains that the Cisco Kid and his partner know where that money is."

Inside the jail car, the situation intensifies as a mob of disgruntled workers threatens violence, forcing Cisco Kid to devise a daring escape plan.

Escape and Revelation

With quick thinking, Cisco Kid confronts Wolford, exposing the corruption of Metz and Shoaff. He reveals that the stolen payroll money was hidden in a seat cushion, a detail that leads to Wolford's realization of their deceit.

Cisco Kid [27:11]: "I have no doubt that is just what it is. Ready to rush that car, boy?"

In a climactic showdown, alliances shift as Wolford sides with Cisco Kid, culminating in the rescue of the payroll money and the exposure of the corrupt officials.

Resolution and Closure

The episode concludes with the resolution of both the central conflict and a lighter subplot involving Raymond and Isabel, adding depth to the narrative and providing a satisfying closure to the adventure.

Cisco Kid [29:49]: "I understand your young friend Raymond got married just the other day, you see?"

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Cisco Kid [07:21]: "See? He has to be suspicious of everyone he does not know."

• Shoaff [12:28]: "It's a good hiding place. Except all that money makes the cushion kind of bulky."

• Wolford [16:32]: "I believe em Metz. If Cisco and Pancho say they don't know anything about it, they don't."

• Cisco Kid [23:17]: "There is nothing I can do about that at the moment, Pancho. My hands are full with this, hombre."

• Pancho [26:14]: "We go over the trestle."

Audio Enhancement and Restoration

The Old Time Radio Westerns podcast prides itself on digitally restoring classic Western radio dramas to unprecedented audio quality. In "Avalanche in Arrow Pass," listeners are enveloped in the sounds of the Wild West—from the creak of saloon doors to the thunder of hooves and the crack of gunfire—crafted to enhance the storytelling experience beyond the limitations of original recordings.

Conclusion

"Avalanche in Arrow Pass" stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Western radio dramas. Through its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and superior audio restoration, the episode offers both nostalgia and excitement for new listeners and long-time fans alike. Andrew Rines successfully brings the Cisco Kid's adventures to life, ensuring that these timeless tales continue to captivate audiences in the digital age.

Additional Information

• Host: Andrew Rines
• Original Air Date: March 30, 1954
• Podcast Release Date: February 4, 2025
• Credits: Cisco Kid voiced by Jack Mather, Pancho by Harry Lang

Listeners are encouraged to explore more episodes and support the podcast through various platforms as mentioned in the podcast's closing remarks.