Old Time Radio Westerns: "Broken Wheel Grade" | Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok (04-08-53)
Release Date: March 15, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines
Introduction
In this thrilling episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with "Broken Wheel Grade," a classic adventure featuring the legendary Wild Bill Hickok, portrayed by Guy Madison, and his trusty deputy, Jingles, voiced by Andy Devine. This digitally restored episode breathes new life into the tale, offering enhanced audio quality that immerses the audience in the rugged landscapes and high-stakes drama of the Wild West.
Setting the Scene
The story unfolds in the rugged town of Broken Wheel, Wyoming, amidst the challenges posed by the burgeoning railroad industry. The construction and operation of the railroads have attracted not only progress but also unscrupulous characters ready to exploit the wealth flowing through the "Iron Horse" trains.
Andrew Rines introduces the episode:
“Welcome to the Old Time Radio Westerns. I'm your host Andrew Rines and I'm excited to bring you another episode absolutely free.” [01:01]
The central conflict revolves around a mysterious train wreck on Broken Wheel Grade, where a silver bullion shipment has gone missing under suspicious circumstances.
The Investigation Begins
Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles are called upon to investigate the train wreck that has plagued Broken Wheel Grade. They learn that the boiler explosion may not have been an accident, raising suspicions of sabotage.
Bill Hickok (Guy Madison):
"But how you gonna find out about that silver bullion shipment, Bill?" [05:11]
Jingles (Andy Devine):
"Maybe we'll find out something." [05:16]
Their investigation leads them to confront the railroad superintendent, John Phillips, who is visibly nervous about the missing bullion and the potential shutdown of the mines if the shipments continue to be sabotaged.
Confrontation with Spike Nelson
The plot thickens with the introduction of Spike Nelson, a U.S. Marshal who confronts Bill and Jingles during their investigation. Spike's aggressive demeanor and unwarranted accusations hint at a deeper conspiracy behind the train wreck.
Spike Nelson (Andy Devine):
"Nobody sees Pop until after the investigation of the wreck. Now move along." [06:42]
The tension escalates as Spike tries to intimidate the heroes, leading to a heated exchange that underscores the stakes involved in uncovering the truth.
The Plan to Expose the Saboteur
Determined to clear Pop Dolan's name, Wild Bill devises a clever plan to trap the saboteurs. By orchestrating a special train run under the guise of a valuable bullion shipment, Bill aims to expose those responsible for the sabotage.
Bill Hickok:
"And you want a rumor started that there's a bullion shipment to be on the train too." [16:01]
John Phillips:
"And you want a rumor started that there's a bullion shipment to be on the train too." [16:07]
This strategic move sets the stage for the climactic confrontation on Broken Wheel Grade, where deception and bravery collide.
Climax – The Train Ride
As the special train approaches Broken Wheel Grade, Bill and Jingles execute their plan. The tension is palpable as the train slows, and the heroes prepare to confront the saboteurs hiding among the crew.
Bill Hickok:
"We've been hanging on the back of this cinder bucket for hours. Smelliest ride I ever had." [19:53]
Jingles:
"That's the wood from the tender. We might look it over, too." [13:07]
In a dramatic turn of events, Bill discovers that the explosion was orchestrated using gunpowder hidden in the wood, a classic sabotage technique reminiscent of historical train attacks.
Jingles:
"Pouring out logs and putting a charge of gunpowder in them was an old trick." [23:48]
The heroes swiftly move to neutralize Spike Nelson and his accomplices, ensuring the safety of the train and the recovery of the bullion.
Resolution and Revelation
The episode reaches its resolution as Bill and Jingles successfully thwart the sabotage, capturing Spike Nelson and revealing the truth behind the train wreck. Pop Dolan's innocence is vindicated, and the bullion shipment is secured, saving the town of Broken Wheel from economic ruin.
John Phillips:
"I heard it all." [21:43]
Bill Hickok:
"Stewart's Raiders used to wreck trains during the Civil War." [23:55]
The episode concludes with a sense of triumph and the reaffirmation of justice in the Wild West, setting the stage for future adventures.
Conclusion and Future Teasers
Andrew Rines wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with the podcast and participate in related contests, maintaining the nostalgic charm while promoting futuristic enhancements.
Andrew Rines:
"This has been a presentation of otrwesterns.com and we hope you enjoyed." [27:52]
Teasers for upcoming episodes hint at more high-stakes adventures, ensuring that listeners remain eager for the next installment of Wild Bill Hickok's exploits.
Notable Quotes
-
Bill Hickok:
"Bill, listen to me. Everybody's blaming me for that wreck, but I didn't do it." [07:52] -
Jingles:
"Pouring out logs and putting a charge of gunpowder in them was an old trick." [23:48] -
Spike Nelson:
"You dirty double dealers." [22:30] -
Bill Hickok:
"Shut up. And next time you'd better do as I tell you. You'll find that Hickok ain't got the only six gun that can put people to sleep." [10:05]
These lines encapsulate the tension, wit, and determination that drive the narrative forward.
Final Thoughts
"Broken Wheel Grade" is a quintessential example of classic Western radio drama, combining suspense, action, and heroic protagonists to deliver an engaging story. The digital restoration enhances the listening experience, allowing new audiences to appreciate the craftsmanship of early radio storytelling. Wild Bill Hickok's adventures continue to captivate, ensuring the enduring legacy of Old Time Radio Westerns.
For more episodes and exclusive content, visit otrwesterns.com, follow us on Facebook, and subscribe to our YouTube channel. Become a ranch hand today and dive deeper into the untamed frontier with Wild Bill Hickok and his companions.