Old Time Radio Westerns: "San Pedro Boss | The Lone Ranger (08-16-50)"

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: March 4, 2025
Podcast Description: Dive into the revitalized Golden Age of Western radio dramas with Andrew Rhynes on the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast. Enjoy digitally restored classics like "Gunsmoke" and "The Lone Ranger," enhanced for unparalleled audio clarity and immersion.

Introduction

In this thrilling episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, titled "San Pedro Boss | The Lone Ranger (08-16-50)", listeners are transported to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West. The story centers around the legendary masked vigilante, The Lone Ranger, and his faithful companion, Tonto, as they confront the nefarious gang led by Jim Folsom in San Pedro County.

Arrival in San Pedro

The episode opens with the Lone Ranger and Tonto arriving in San Pedro, the primary town in San Pedro County, under the cover of darkness. After a strenuous ride, they seek shelter near the sheriff's office.

• [03:29] Narrator: "The Lone Ranger and Tonto had ridden hard to reach San Pedro, the main community in San Pedro County."

• [04:08] Lone Ranger: "No. You wait in the darkness beneath that open window so you can hear what's said."

Key Points:

• The duo dismount and proceed on foot to assess the situation.
• They notice Sheriff Dawson and Deputy Kimasabi present, both wearing badges, indicating a semblance of authority overshadowed by underlying corruption.

Confrontation with Sheriff Dawson

The Lone Ranger confronts Sheriff Dawson, challenging his inaction against the Folsom gang.

• [05:04] Lone Ranger: "Olsen leads a gang of crooks that operate all over this part of the state. They make San Pedro their headquarters because they're safe here."

• [05:17] Lone Ranger: "If you hated crooks, as a good lawman should, you'd make San Pedro too hot for them."

Key Points:

• The Lone Ranger accuses Sheriff Dawson of turning a blind eye to Jim Folsom’s criminal activities.
• Tonto expresses skepticism about taking action, fearing retaliation from Folsom’s gang.

Strategy and Infiltration

Determined to dismantle the Folsom gang, the Lone Ranger devises a plan to infiltrate the town by posing as an outlaw, leveraging the mask to deceive the gang and gather crucial intelligence.

• [07:52] Lone Ranger: "I'm going to play the part of an outlaw. The mask will help that right."

• [08:16] Tonto: "And where we go then we'll call."

Key Points:

• Utilizing a letter from the Padre, the Lone Ranger gains the trust of prominent townsmen, including the banker, storekeeper, and express office manager.
• The plan involves orchestrating a meeting with Jim Folsom at a local café, setting the stage for a confrontation.

The Ambush and Gunfight

The tension escalates as the Lone Ranger and Tonto execute their plan. Their infiltration leads to a climactic gunfight where bullets fly and allegiances are tested.

• [09:44] Lone Ranger: "When you move to the wall, you..."

• [23:23] Narrator: "Life suddenly became unimportant. Tonto, throwing caution to the winds, he cried out wildly as he leaped."

Notable Quotes:

• [12:24] Tonto: "When is that another robbery being reported? Well, where'd the mashman."

• [16:18] Lone Ranger: "Leave that to me. And take my word for it, you won't need to call in any marshals or rangers."

Key Points:

• A fierce exchange ensues at the café, with the Lone Ranger strategically disabling outlaws.
• Tonto plays a pivotal role by ambushing one of Folsom’s men, disrupting their plans and tipping the scales in favor of lawmen.

Capture of Jim Folsom

The climax culminates in the capture of Jim Folsom, affirming the Lone Ranger’s commitment to justice and his ability to outsmart the cunning outlaw.

• [25:12] Lone Ranger: "It's the man who showed me how to trap the whole Folsom gang. He's The Lone Ranger."

• [24:47] Tonto: "You've done a fine job."

Key Points:

• The coordinated efforts of the Lone Ranger and Tonto lead to the downfall of Folsom and his gang.
• Sheriff Dawson acknowledges the Lone Ranger’s contribution, marking a turning point in restoring law and order in San Pedro County.

Conclusion

As the dust settles, the Lone Ranger and Tonto stand victorious, having thwarted the Folsom gang’s reign of terror. The episode underscores themes of justice, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of good over evil, hallmarks of the Lone Ranger's enduring legacy.

• [24:42] Lone Ranger: "You'll be all right, Toto. But it's a miracle you weren't killed."

• [25:18] Tonto: "Yep, his job's done. So's the Mask man fooled you fools."

Production Notes:

• Writer: Fran Striker
• Director: Charles D. Livingston
• Performed By: Brace Beamed Foreign as The Lone Ranger

Closing Remarks: This episode of Old Time Radio Westerns masterfully blends action, strategy, and character dynamics, bringing to life the classic tale of the Lone Ranger’s battle against corruption and crime in the Wild West.

For more engaging Western adventures, subscribe to the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast and experience the timeless stories of courage and justice reimagined for modern listeners.