Podcast Title: Old Time Radio Westerns
Host: Andrew Ryans
Episode: Bitter Creek Station | Straight Arrow (03-23-50)
Release Date: March 25, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Ryans presents "Bitter Creek Station", a riveting installment featuring the legendary hero Straight Arrow. This digitally restored classic Western drama transports listeners to the rugged terrains of the Wild West, enhanced with rich and clear audio that brings every whisper of wind and clash of steel to life. As a homage to iconic shows like Gunsmoke and The Lone Ranger, this episode delves deep into themes of justice, transformation, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Plot Summary

"Bitter Creek Station" unfolds around the mysterious disappearance of Steve Adams, the young proprietor of the Broken Bow Cattle Spread. In Adams' absence, a formidable Comanche warrior known as Straight Arrow emerges to protect the innocent and maintain order in the tumultuous frontier.

Act 1: The Scheme Unveiled (03:13 - 09:48)

The story kicks off with Groat and Costa, two unscrupulous road agents, surveilling a Pony Express stagecoach traveling between Bitter Creek Station and Dry Wash. Their plan is to intercept and tamper with the mail pouches to steal valuable sight drafts—cash equivalents used widely in the Old West.

• Groat (03:13): "Get that kerchief over your face, Caster."
• Costa (03:30): "Now, Costa. Down we go."

As the stagecoach nears, Groat and Costa attempt to seize the mail, but their efforts are thwarted by the swiftness of the Pony Express riders. Frustrated, they decide to head into town to devise another scheme, intending to manipulate the mail from Benevolent Angle.

Meanwhile, Mesquite Molly arrives at Bitter Creek Station to take over for Amanda Kelly, who is unwell. Unbeknownst to Molly, Groat and Costa have ulterior motives, coercing her into facilitating their plans.

Act 2: Accusations and Tensions (09:48 - 16:17)

The plot thickens as Barry Kincaid is wrongfully accused of mail robbery by Groat and Costa. Using manipulated evidence and falsified letters, they attempt to pin the crimes on an innocent Barry.

• Groat (13:05): "I reckon we better find out."
• Spanner (13:15): "What's the sense of gabbing? All I know is I need those sight drafts and ain't arrived yet."

Amidst the chaos, Steve Adams transforms into Straight Arrow at Sundown Valley, embodying the spirit of a true Western hero. Clad in traditional Comanche garb and mounted on his majestic golden palomino, Fury, Straight Arrow sets out to rectify the injustices plaguing the land.

• Narrator (15:02): "A clatter of hoops in the vast vaulted cave. An Indian war hoop that rings from the glittering rock. Out into the open gallops the great golden palomino fury."

Act 3: The Pursuit Intensifies (16:17 - 26:56)

As Groat and Costa escalate their criminal activities, they confront Barry Kincaid publicly, attempting to frame him further. Meanwhile, Straight Arrow races against time, aided by his loyal horse Fury, to uncover the truth and bring the real culprits to justice.

• Costa (18:06): "She's been kind of peaked lately. Rest to do her good."

In a dramatic turn, Straight Arrow intervenes during an intense confrontation, preventing a lynch mob from taking Barry Kincaid into unjust custody. His timely arrival and unwavering resolve inspire the community to stand against corruption.

• Barry Kincaid (30:02): "There will be no lynching. Kincaid is free and these two men go to jail."

Act 4: The Climactic Showdown (26:56 - 30:37)

The episode reaches its zenith as Straight Arrow confronts Groat and Costa at Bitter Creek Station. Utilizing his superior skills and the speed of Fury, he outmaneuvers the villains, ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.

• Straight Arrow (29:40): "Yes, I am. Straight Arrow. And these are the Batman, not Kincaid."
• Costa (29:53): "Groot. Custer, you got anything to say? Nary a word. I reckon that proves it."

In the end, justice prevails as Groat and Costa are apprehended, and the community acknowledges Straight Arrow's pivotal role in restoring peace.

Key Characters

• Straight Arrow (Steve Adams): The protagonist who transforms into a Comanche warrior to defend the innocent and uphold justice.
• Groat and Costa: The antagonists scheming to steal and manipulate Pony Express mail for personal gain.
• Mesquite Molly: A coerced participant in the villains' plans, striving to find a way out.
• Barry Kincaid: An innocent man falsely accused of mail robbery, whose name is cleared thanks to Straight Arrow.
• Fury: Straight Arrow's loyal golden palomino horse, symbolizing speed and strength.

Notable Quotes

1. Groat (03:13): "Get that kerchief over your face, Caster."
2. Costa (03:30): "Now, Costa. Down we go."
3. Barry Kincaid (30:02): "There will be no lynching. Kincaid is free and these two men go to jail."
4. Straight Arrow (29:40): "Yes, I am. Straight Arrow. And these are the Batman, not Kincaid."

These quotes highlight the tension, deceit, and eventual triumph of justice that drive the narrative forward.

Themes and Insights

"Bitter Creek Station" masterfully weaves several enduring themes:

• Justice vs. Corruption: The central conflict pits the righteous Stand of Straight Arrow against the deceitful actions of Groat and Costa, underscoring the eternal struggle between good and evil.

• Transformation and Heroism: Steve Adams' metamorphosis into Straight Arrow embodies the idea that true heroes rise in times of need, showcasing inner strength and moral fortitude.

• Community and Responsibility: The story emphasizes the importance of community solidarity and the collective responsibility to uphold justice, as evidenced by the townsfolk's eventual support for Straight Arrow.

• Redemption and Truth: Through the vindication of Barry Kincaid, the narrative reinforces the belief that truth and integrity will ultimately prevail over falsehood and malice.

Conclusion

"Bitter Creek Station | Straight Arrow" stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Old Time Radio Westerns. With its meticulously restored audio quality, the episode offers an immersive experience, capturing the essence of the Wild West with every sound and word. Straight Arrow's quest for justice not only entertains but also resonates with universal themes of morality, heroism, and the triumph of good over evil. For both longtime fans and newcomers, this episode provides a captivating journey into the heart of Western lore, reaffirming why these timeless tales continue to enthrall audiences today.