Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: "Bringing Down Father | Gunsmoke (03-11-56)"
Host: Andrew Rines
Original Air Date: March 11, 1956
Release Date on Podcast: July 22, 2025
Podcast Description: The "Old Time Radio Westerns" podcast, hosted by Andrew Rines, breathes new life into classic Western radio dramas through meticulous digital restoration. This episode, “Bringing Down Father” from the iconic series Gunsmoke, immerses listeners in the rugged frontier of Dodge City, featuring the steadfast U.S. Marshal Matt Dillon.
1. Introduction to Dodge City and Matt Dillon
The episode opens with the familiar voice of Matt Dillon (William Conrad) introducing himself:
“[02:05] Matt Dillon: I'm that man. Matt Dillon, United States Marshal, the first man they look for and the last they want to meet. It's a chancy job that makes a man watchful and a little lonely.”
This sets the tone for the law and order that Matt embodies in the tumultuous environment of Dodge City.
2. The Incident: A Man Shot by the Trail Boss
The narrative quickly escalates when Andy Gilden, a newcomer from Texas, approaches Matt with alarming news:
“[04:11] Andy Gilden: There's a man been shot, Marshall. An unarmed man.”
Andy reveals that Harley Burke, the trail boss of the Star M cattle outfit, has shot an unarmed man named Hodges. Despite Burke's rough demeanor, Matt is skeptical of the accusation:
“[05:08] Matt Dillon: Burke's a man of temper and he's pretty rough, but he's decent. Hard to believe he'd shoot an unarmed man.”
3. Investigation and Burke’s Confession
As Matt delves deeper, he confronts Burke, who admits to the shooting:
“[08:43] Jack Ruman: It was raining. I'd been out with a guard. Only dry spot I could find when I come in was way over there by Hodges. I went to sleep then he must have woke up and saw who it was. Then he came over and kicked me in the head. Hurt me bad. But somehow I got a bullet in him before I blacked out.”
Despite the confession, Matt senses that Burke is withholding crucial information, hinting at a larger conspiracy.
4. Kitty’s Insight: The Motive Behind Andy’s Actions
The plot thickens when Kitty, a local woman, confronts Matt about Andy's behavior:
“[11:40] Kitty: You saw me sitting here with that drunken kid. Why didn't you come over?”
Kitty reveals that Andy harbors deep resentment towards his father, Mr. Gilden, suggesting that Andy’s actions are driven by a desire to prove himself and possibly exact revenge.
“[12:14] Kitty: Matt, I think that boy'd kill his paw if he had a chance. All he talked about was how he'd like to get back at him.”
This insight directs Matt to investigate Andy’s motivations, linking the current turmoil to familial tensions.
5. Unmasking the True Culprit: Jack Ruman’s Revelation
The climax unfolds as Matt pursues Andy, leading to a confrontation where Jack Ruman steps forward with the truth:
“[19:55] Chester: What do you mean was?”
“[19:57] Jack Ruman: You kicked me in the head and shot Hodges. You know what you're gonna say.”
Ruman confesses that he was the one who shot Hodges, not Andy. His actions were driven by a complex relationship with Andy’s father and a desire to protect Andy from the repercussions of their deceit.
“[21:31] Jack Ruman: Because I was afraid it might have been the kid that done it. Old man Gilden's the best friend I got in this world. I couldn't never have faced him if I'd brought his boy up here to hang.”
6. Resolution: Upholding Justice and Reflecting on the Events
With the truth unveiled, Matt ensures that justice is served. Ruman is arrested for his actions, and the deceptive circumstances are laid bare. Matt reflects on the tragedy of how Andy’s quest for manhood and his strained relationship with his father culminated in unnecessary bloodshed.
“[21:02] Jack Ruman: Well, I knew I didn't shoot that man, Marshall. But I knew the only way I'd ever find out who did was to just wait and see what they was after.”
“[21:58] Matt Dillon: Something went wrong with that. Sure did. Burke. Yeah, you did all your cutting. When the old man hears the whole story, he’ll know what a good friend you’ve been.”
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Matt Dillon on his role:
“[02:05] Matt Dillon: I'm that man. Matt Dillon, United States Marshal...”
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Andy Gilden reporting the shooting:
“[04:11] Andy Gilden: There's a man been shot, Marshall. An unarmed man.”
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Jack Ruman’s confession:
“[19:57] Jack Ruman: You kicked me in the head and shot Hodges. You know what you're gonna say.”
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Kitty on Andy’s motives:
“[12:14] Kitty: Matt, I think that boy'd kill his paw if he had a chance...”
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Ruman explaining his actions:
“[21:31] Jack Ruman: Because I was afraid it might have been the kid that done it...”
Conclusion
“Bringing Down Father” intricately weaves themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of frontier justice. Through Matt Dillon’s unwavering pursuit of truth, the episode highlights the personal struggles and moral dilemmas faced by those seeking to uphold the law in a lawless land. The revelation of Jack Ruman’s true motives underscores the complexities of human relationships and the tragic consequences of concealed truths.
For listeners new to Gunsmoke, this episode exemplifies the series' ability to blend compelling storytelling with deep character development, offering a window into the challenges of maintaining justice in the Wild West.
Produced by: Norman McDonald
Cast Highlights:
- William Conrad as Matt Dillon
- Chester Howard McNear as Doc
- Georgia Ellis as Kitty
- Lawrence Dobkin and Vic Perrin in supporting roles
Tune in next week as a new challenger arrives in Dodge City, threatening the delicate balance Matt Dillon strives to maintain in the ever-tumultuous West.