Podcast Summary: "Old Time Radio Westerns"
Episode Title: Little Guns – Have Gun Will Travel
Original Air Date: July 17, 1960
Release Date: April 30, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines
Introduction
In the captivating episode "Little Guns" from the classic radio series Have Gun Will Travel, host Andrew Rines transports listeners to the tumultuous town of Preston, Arizona, set in the year 1875. This episode masterfully blends rich storytelling with dynamic character interactions, showcasing the timeless struggle between lawlessness and order in the Wild West.
Plot Overview
The story centers around Paladin, portrayed by John Dana, a sophisticated and principled gunfighter operating out of the Carlton Hotel in San Francisco. Paladin is summoned to Preston, Arizona, to quell a burgeoning range war threatening to disrupt the peace and prosperity of the community. Despite initial skepticism about the mayor, James Ellis—revealed to be a notorious gambler and confidence man—Paladin accepts the challenge to mediate between the rival ranchers, Marsh Jordan and Jack Sanders, whose disputes over water rights have escalated beyond legal resolution.
Key Characters
- Paladin (John Dana): A cultured gunfighter committed to resolving conflicts through intellect and negotiation rather than violence.
- Hey Boy (Ben Wright): Paladin's loyal assistant who aids in his missions.
- James Ellis (Lawrence Dobkin): The slick, seemingly unscrupulous mayor of Preston who hires Paladin.
- Marsh Jordan (Joseph Kearns) & Jack Sanders (William Redfield): Rival ranchers whose feud threatens the entire valley.
Major Themes and Discussions
-
Conflict Resolution vs. Violence:
- Paladin embodies the archetype of the Western hero who prioritizes dialogue over gunfire. His approach is tested as he navigates the entrenched animosity between Jordan and Sanders.
-
Power Dynamics and Community Organization:
- The episode delves into how small communities can leverage collective organization to balance power among influential individuals. Paladin introduces the Preston Valley Stockman's Association, empowering the smaller ranchers to stand against the larger outfits.
-
Integrity and Morality:
- Paladin's unwavering commitment to honesty and fairness contrasts with Mayor Ellis's dubious reputation, highlighting the importance of moral integrity in leadership roles.
Notable Quotes and Moments
-
Paladin's Introduction of Authority:
Paladin: "Gentlemen, just a moment. Alice, I told you and your friend to keep out of this. Now, who do you think you are, mister?"
[Timestamp: 14:30] -
Negotiation Tactics:
Paladin: "What makes either of you any better than any other citizen? What's wrong with leaving your dispute to the law to settle?"
[Timestamp: 22:15] -
Establishing the Stockman's Association:
Paladin: "These are the articles of incorporation for the Preston Valley Stockman's Association... they figure this valley is big enough for the little men and the big ones."
[Timestamp: 35:50] -
Resolution and Unity:
Paladin: "The association will call off theirs. Yes? Well, Mr. Fen, look what just came for you."
[Timestamp: 50:45]
Climactic Resolution
As tensions peak towards the episode's climax, Paladin ingeniously introduces the Preston Valley Stockman's Association, rallying the smaller ranchers to form a united front. By leveraging legal frameworks and collective bargaining, Paladin shifts the balance of power, compelling both Marsh Jordan and Jack Sanders to recognize the futility of their feud. The proposed bet serves as a catalyst for change, leading to a peaceful agreement and the establishment of a structured community organization that ensures future disputes are managed amicably.
Conclusion
"Little Guns" serves as a poignant narrative on the efficacy of leadership grounded in integrity and the power of community organization in the face of adversity. Through Paladin's strategic mediation, the episode underscores the potential for peaceful resolutions over perpetual conflict, a theme as relevant today as it was during the era of the Old West.
Listeners are left with a reinforced appreciation for storytelling that champions moral fortitude and collective action, hallmarks of the enduring appeal of classic Western radio dramas.
Additional Information
-
Cast Highlights:
- Virginia Greg as Ms. Wong
- Hugh Douglas as a supporting character
-
Production Notes: This episode was specially written for Have Gun Will Travel by Rod Peterson and produced in Hollywood by Frank Paris. It features enhanced digital restoration, ensuring superior audio quality that brings the vivid sounds of the Wild West to life.
For more episodes and updates, visit otrwesterns.com, follow the podcast on Facebook and YouTube, or contact via email at podcast@otrwesterns.com.