Old Time Radio Westerns: "First Show | Ranger Bill (10-02-50)"

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: December 6, 2025

Episode Overview

In this special digitally restored broadcast, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners back to the golden age of radio westerns with the "Ranger Bill" series premiere from October 2, 1950. This episode gives a vivid account of forest rangers’ valiant efforts to fight a raging woodland fire near Pendleton Valley, blending high-stakes wilderness action with wholesome moral lessons and camaraderie. The adventure introduces Ranger Bill, his friend Henry, and their commanding officer Colonel Anders as they rush to save lives, nature, and their own in the untamed frontier.

Key Discussion Points & Story Progression

1. The Peril of Pendleton Valley (03:01–04:45)

• Narrator sets the stakes:
  The episode opens with an intense description of a wildfire consuming Pendleton Valley, labeling fire as “the most dreaded enemy of the woodland.” Colonel Anders, Ranger Bill’s boss, coordinates men and machines to thwart the blaze.
• Key action:
  Colonel Anders orchestrates a desperate defense, calling Ralph to create a firebreak with a bulldozer and 30 men (03:46).
• Close call:
  Colonel narrowly escapes a falling tree, saved by quick action—

  “Thanks for saving my life. I’ll not forget this.” – Colonel Anders (04:20)

2. Ranger Bill Mobilizes (05:05–07:29)

• Ranger Bill receives the summons:
  A cryptic call from Colonel Anders raises the stakes, tasking Bill to join the fight with Henry by his side.

  Henry: “You mean you’re letting me go with you?”
  Bill: “Letting? Those are orders, Ranger. Now get cutting and pack your knapsack.” (05:56)

• Faith in Action:
  Bill insists Henry bring his New Testament—

  “Remember, when you’re so busy you can’t take time to talk with the Lord, you’re too busy.” (06:11)

3. Character Introductions & The Journey (07:54–09:41)

• Narrator’s introduction:
  Provides background on Bill—an expert ranger living with his mother in Knotty Pine—and Henry, every bit the adventurous outdoorsy boy.
• On the road:
  Henry and Bill banter about school and the outdoors, with Henry’s youthful eagerness highlighted.

  “Yeah, and I’d rather be outside than go to school.” – Henry (08:34)

4. Into the Wild & The Threat Revealed (09:41–12:36)

• Arriving near the dam:
  The pair spots wildlife fleeing the smoke—evidence of the fire’s severity. They hurry to help.

  “Look at all the animals running across the road. Look at Bill. Deer, bear, skunks, rabbit.” – Henry (09:32)

• Their special mission:
  The plan unfolds: Bill and Henry are to watch for a Morse code signal. If the fire rages out of control, they must blow up Pine Ridge Dam to flood the valley and halt the flames.

  “If the fire gets out of control, he’ll signal us to blow up the dam.” – Bill (12:13)

• Henry’s excitement and responsibility:

  “Boy, oh boy. I’m just as important as a real ranger is.” – Henry (12:32)

• Dynamite dangers:
  A classic slapstick moment as Henry carelessly handles dynamite—

  “Listen, young fella… If you ever drop a box of dynamite again like that, you can plan on a fast one way trip to the moon.” – Bill (13:32)

5. Firefight Grows More Desperate (14:02–14:46)

• Colonel Anders is forced to retreat as the fire becomes life-threatening.
• Henry updates on casualties—Ranger Tom has a broken leg.
• The decisive moment:

  “We don’t stand a chance unless Bill helps us. You take charge. I’m gonna signal Bill to blow up Pine Ridge Dam.” – Colonel Anders (14:39)

6. Cliffhanger & Next Steps (14:52–15:20)

• The episode ends in suspense: Will Bill and Henry get the signal to blow the dam and save Pendleton Valley? How will Henry handle his crucial watch duty?
• End narration invites listeners back:

  “Listen again next Monday at 4:45 for more adventures with Ranger Bill.” (14:52)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On faith and priorities:

  “Remember, when you’re so busy you can’t take time to talk with the Lord, you’re too busy.” – Ranger Bill (06:11)

• On responsibility and comradery:

  “Boy, oh boy. I’m just as important as a real ranger is.” – Henry (12:32)

• Humor in danger:

  “If you ever drop a box of dynamite again like that, you can plan on a fast one way trip to the moon.” – Ranger Bill (13:32)

• High-stakes heroism:

  “Thanks for saving my life. I’ll not forget this. What’s your name?” – Colonel Anders (04:20)

Key Timestamps for Important Segments

• 03:01 – Wildfire sweeps Pendleton Valley
• 05:05 – Ranger Bill receives his orders
• 06:11 – Discussing faith in the field
• 08:34 – Narrator’s background on Bill & Henry
• 09:32 – Animals flee, fire’s effects visible
• 12:13 – Blow up the dam plan revealed
• 13:32 – The dynamite gag
• 14:39 – Colonel decides it’s time for drastic measures
• 14:52 – Cliffhanger ending

Overall Tone & Style

The episode balances tension, wholesome humor, didactic moments, and the strong camaraderie typical of classic westerns. The dialogue is earnest, with moral undertones, light banter, and a reverent respect for duty and nature’s dangers.

Summary for New Listeners

This premiere “Ranger Bill” story is a thrilling and morally rich introduction to the beloved ranger and his world. Facing down wildfire with teamwork, courage, and faith, Bill and Henry’s tale reflects the virtues and adventurous spirit that made old time radio westerns a national favorite.

Note: This summary excludes all commercial breaks, non-content sections, and host advertisements to focus on the story and characters at the heart of the episode.