Old Time Radio Westerns — "Stranger on a Train" | The Lone Ranger (01-30-52)
Podcast Host: Andrew Rhynes
Original Airdate: September 12, 2025 (restored episode)

Episode Overview

In this restored classic radio episode, Andrew Rhynes brings listeners a vivid adventure from "The Lone Ranger," titled "Stranger on a Train." The story centers on Dan Reed, the teenage nephew of the Lone Ranger, as he journeys home by train and finds himself deep in the retelling of a harrowing wagon train trek across the Western frontier. Through the memories of Tom Selby, an old wagon master, we are transported into a tale of perilous prairie fires, buffalo stampedes, and betrayal, all while showcasing the bravery and ingenuity of the Lone Ranger and his trusted companion, Tonto.
The episode blends high-stakes Western action with themes of trust, survival, and the indelible impression left by legendary heroes.

Key Discussion Points & Storyline Breakdown

1. Introduction: Setting Up the Tale

• [04:55] Dan Reed boards a train, sitting beside Tom Selby, a weather-beaten but pleasant man who strikes up a conversation.
• The tale unfolds through Tom’s recounting to young Dan, allowing listeners to relive a bygone adventure with the Lone Ranger.

2. The Wagon Train’s Journey into Danger

• Tom Selby shares his experience as wagon master, leading one of the largest trains west, accompanied by his family and a military escort.

• The Army had arranged for two legendary guides: a “masked man” (the Lone Ranger) and his Indian companion (Tonto).

  • Notable quote:
    “We’ve been told ahead of time that one of the men would be masked. So when those two hombres met the wagons, I wasn’t surprised.”
    — Tom Selby ([06:00])

• The wagon train faces a series of mysterious mishaps: wagon fire, lost water, and sabotaged supplies—raising suspicions of internal sabotage.

3. The Buffalo Stampede & the Prairie Fire

• [12:30] On the fourth day, a massive buffalo herd threatens the travelers just as a prairie fire breaks out, endangering all.

• The Lone Ranger employs quick thinking, using kerosene and a backfire to divert the stampeding herd, saving the lives of the wagon train.

  • Notable moment:
    “If he hadn’t been there to think of starting that backfire why, the herd would have stampeded right into the wagon for.”
    — Tom Selby ([15:00])
  • Evidence emerges that the fire was set deliberately, and the discovery of a kerosene can in the river suggests malicious intent.

4. Suspicion Falls on Two Men

• Investigation points toward Drew and Dusty Weeks, two men who have grown suspiciously friendly.
• The Lone Ranger and Tonto watch the pair closely, suspecting them of engineering the sabotage.

5. Indian Attack & High Stakes at the Red River

• As the train nears the Red River, Drew and Dusty volunteer to scout ahead, but are caught sending smoke signals to hostile Indians, revealing their betrayal.

  • Notable quote:
    “Them make smoke talk. Tell Indians wagons cross river. Six men in morning. Helm to attack by the dirty freighters.”
    — Tonto ([22:40])

• The Lone Ranger opts for an unexpected river crossing and defensive formation, outwitting the approaching ambush.

• An intense battle follows:

  • Flaming arrows rain upon the wagons.
  • Ammunition runs low.
  • The group teeters on the brink of being overrun.

6. The Cavalry Arrives—Betrayal Unmasked

• Just as hope fades, Tonto returns with Fort Sherman’s troopers, turning the tide and driving off the attackers.

  • Memorable moment:
    “Then I heard one of the most welcome sounds I could think of—a bugle. This puddle bringing an end to.”
    — Tom Selby ([31:30])

• Drew and Dusty, captured, are revealed as mercenaries hired by a rebel Mexican chief to divert the Army’s rifles intended for the Western frontier.

7. Closing Reflections & Reveal

• Tom wraps up the tale for Dan just as the train journey ends. In a twist, Tom and his companion see Dan being met by the very figures of his story—the Lone Ranger and Tonto—proving the legend is reality.
  • Notable quote:
    “Well, boy seems to believe it anyway. There goes the boy now… riding through a grove with a masked man and an Indian. Great thing. I never thought for a minute that boy knew the Lone Ranger. Sam.”
    — Tom Selby ([33:12])

Notable Quotes

• Tom Selby ([06:00]):
  “We’ve been told ahead of time that one of the men would be masked. So when those two hombres met the wagons, I wasn’t surprised.”

• Tom Selby ([15:00]):
  “If he hadn’t been there to think of starting that backfire why, the herd would have stampeded right into the wagon for.”

• Tonto ([22:40]):
  “Them make smoke talk. Tell Indians wagons cross river. Six men in morning. Helm to attack by the dirty freighters.”

• Tom Selby ([31:30]):
  “Then I heard one of the most welcome sounds I could think of—a bugle. This puddle bringing an end to.”

• Tom Selby ([33:12]):
  “Well, boy seems to believe it anyway. There goes the boy now… riding through a grove with a masked man and an Indian. Great thing. I never thought for a minute that boy knew the Lone Ranger. Sam.”

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 04:55 — Dan Reed meets Tom Selby on the train; the story begins.
• 12:30 — The buffalo herd and prairie fire crisis develops.
• 15:00 — Backfire saves the wagon train.
• 20:12 — Lone Ranger & Tonto suspect sabotage; the investigation unfolds.
• 22:40 — Drew and Dusty send smoke signals to hostile Indians.
• 24:42 — Ambush at the river; preparations for defense.
• 28:50 — The wagon train faces the Indian attack.
• 31:30 — The cavalry's arrival; the tide turns.
• 33:12 — Tom and companion witness Dan with the legendary heroes.

Tone and Atmosphere

The episode is faithful to the classic Western drama, with vivid audio restoration that emphasizes the high stakes, tension, and camaraderie of the untamed frontier. The storytelling is heartfelt, with Tom Selby’s warm, authoritative voice guiding the listener through danger, suspense, and eventual triumph.

In Summary:
“Stranger on a Train” masterfully blends a framing device with a classic tale of the Lone Ranger’s ingenuity and integrity—reminding listeners why these audio dramas remain timeless. The episode’s restoration breathes new life into every hoofbeat and campfire, making this a must-listen for those who love tales of adventure, justice, and the enduring legends of the West.