Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Man Hunter
Original Air Date: May 27, 1956
Release Date: August 11, 2025
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Podcast: Old Time Radio Westerns

Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes presents a digitally restored rendition of the classic Gunsmoke episode titled "Man Hunter." Originally aired on May 27, 1956, this story delves into the moral complexities and dangers faced by Marshal Matt Dillon in the untamed frontier of Dodge City. The restoration enhances the original audio, bringing vivid sounds and rich performances to modern listeners.

Main Characters

• Matt Dillon (William Conrad): The steadfast United States Marshal of Dodge City, renowned for his integrity and dedication to justice.
• Ben Quillen: A newly arrived deputy sheriff from Prescott, Arizona, with ulterior motives for his pursuit.
• Hank Young/Ike Abbott: A longtime friend of Marshal Dillon, now a suspect under a questionable warrant.
• Kitty: Matt Dillon's trusted companion, offering support and counsel.
• Supporting Cast: Includes Long Lawrence Dobkin, John Danar, Ken Lynch, Harley Bear as Chester, and Georgia Ellis as Kitty.

Plot Summary

Arrival of Ben Quillen (00:01 - 05:00)

The episode opens with Marshal Matt Dillon engaging in his daily duties in Dodge City. His calm routine is interrupted by the arrival of Ben Quillen, a deputy sheriff from Prescott, Arizona. Quillen arrives with a warrant for the arrest of Ike Abbott, a man Dillon considers a friend. Dillon is conflicted, knowing Ike's good nature and questioning the validity of the warrant.

Quote:
Ben Quillen: "I've been hunting anybody from Arizona. He must have heard about it." (04:15)

Doubts and Decisions (05:01 - 15:00)

Dillon grapples with the decision to arrest Ike, weighing his duty against his personal relationship. Quillen pressures Dillon to comply, revealing that Ike is wanted for murder—a charge that challenges Dillon's perception of his friend. Dillon decides to delay the arrest, hoping to resolve the matter without bloodshed.

Quote:
Matt Dillon: "I didn't want to kill him. I'll bring him in for you." (12:30)

Tensions Rise (15:01 - 20:00)

Quillen grows suspicious of Dillon's reluctance and suspects ulterior motives. He confronts Dillon, revealing his true intentions—to collect a reward by capturing Ike. Dillon stands firm, asserting the warrant's questionable legitimacy and refusing to turn over his friend without just cause.

Quote:
Ben Quillen: "I hate men like you who go out after other men just for the reward money." (18:45)

Climactic Confrontation (20:01 - 25:00)

The standoff reaches its peak as Quillen brings Ike before Dillon, attempting to enforce the arrest. Ike insists on his innocence, and the tension escalates into a physical confrontation. Quillen's determination to claim the reward leads to a deadly showdown, testing Dillon's resolve to protect his friend and uphold justice.

Quote:
Matt Dillon: "You'd shoot Hank here for trying to escape before you reach the Colorado line." (24:20)

Resolution and Aftermath (25:01 - 26:47)

In the aftermath of the confrontation, Quillen's true nature is exposed. Dillon's unwavering commitment to justice and friendship prevails, ensuring that Ike remains protected unless incontrovertible evidence surfaces. The episode concludes with Dillon reflecting on the complexities of law enforcement in the Wild West.

Quote:
Matt Dillon: "He's a man. I make no exception." (26:30)

Conflict and Climax

The central conflict revolves around Ben Quillen's pursuit of Ike Abbott under a dubious warrant. Quillen's ulterior motive of securing a reward creates a moral dilemma for Marshal Dillon, who values personal integrity over bureaucratic directives. The climax unfolds during the confrontation at the ranch, where Quillen's aggressive tactics clash with Dillon's ethical stance, culminating in a tense and dramatic resolution.

Resolution

Marshal Dillon successfully navigates the conflict by prioritizing justice and his personal bond with Ike over Quillen's flawed authority. The resolution reinforces Dillon's role as a protector of his community and a man of principle, highlighting the themes of loyalty, moral integrity, and the complexities of frontier justice.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ben Quillen:
  "I've been hunting anybody from Arizona. He must have heard about it." (04:15)

• Matt Dillon:
  "I didn't want to kill him. I'll bring him in for you." (12:30)

• Ben Quillen:
  "I hate men like you who go out after other men just for the reward money." (18:45)

• Matt Dillon:
  "You'd shoot Hank here for trying to escape before you reach the Colorado line." (24:20)

• Matt Dillon:
  "He's a man. I make no exception." (26:30)

Conclusion

"Man Hunter" is a poignant exploration of the ethical challenges faced by lawmen in the Old West. Through the masterful performances and enhanced audio quality, listeners are immersed in a narrative that balances action with deep moral questioning. Marshal Matt Dillon's unwavering sense of justice serves as a timeless reminder of the virtues required to maintain order and honor in tumultuous times.

For those new to Gunsmoke or Old Time Radio Westerns, this episode offers a compelling blend of suspense, character depth, and classic Western storytelling, all revitalized through meticulous digital restoration.

Produced and Directed by Norman MacDonald
Story by John Meston
Music by Rex Corey
Sound Patterns by Tom Hanley and Bill James
Cast Highlights:

• William Conrad as Matt Dillon
• Harley Bear as Chester
• Georgia Ellis as Kitty

Thank you for listening to the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast. For more episodes, visit otrwesterns.com and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform.