Podcast Episode Summary: "Struggle for the Main Divide | Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok (03-18-53)"

Old Time Radio Westerns hosted by Andrew Rines presents a riveting episode titled "Struggle for the Main Divide," originally aired on March 18, 1953, and digitally restored for modern listeners. This episode immerses listeners in the tumultuous era of railroad expansion in the American West, highlighting the fierce competition and cunning strategies employed to secure pivotal routes through challenging terrains.

Introduction

The episode opens with host Andrew Rines setting the stage for another classic Wild Bill Hickok adventure. Skipping past promotional segments, we dive directly into the heart of the story, where the expansion of the railroads across the American plains sets the backdrop for a high-stakes conflict.

Setting the Stage

Narrator (02:50):
"The growth of the west meant a need for transportation and the railroads began to build their steel ribbons across the plains. But when the shrill whistle of the iron horse echoed against the Colorado mountains, the going got rough."

Wild Bill Hickok, portrayed by Guy Madison, and his trusty deputy Jingles, voiced by Andy Devine, are introduced as they embark on their mission to oversee the construction of railroads through the formidable Main Divide. Their expertise in navigating the treacherous mountain terrains makes them indispensable to the railroad companies.

The Conflict Begins

The peace is soon disturbed by the entrance of Hard Rail Hennessy, a key figure representing the railroad interests, and Burton Bueller, a conniving figure attempting to manipulate the situation for personal gain.

Hard Rail Hennessy (04:10):
"I want you boys to meet Mr. Bueller. Burton."

Bueller immediately exhibits his unscrupulous nature, demanding money for map approvals, which he attempts to utilize to swindle Hennessy.

Jingles (04:34):
"Approval? Who are these two bums to be approving anything?"

Hennessy quickly clarifies Bueller's true identity and his critical role in providing authentic route maps.

Unfolding the Plot

Bueller's deceit becomes apparent as Wild Bill scrutinizes the provided maps, revealing their inadequacy for the challenging terrain.

Wild Bill Hickok (05:13):
"Through Stow and Hollow and over Eagle Ridge. Somebody's led you wrong, Mr. Bueller. You couldn't put a railroad line over that route in a hundred years."

Confronted with the flawed maps, Bueller's frustration mounts, leading to heightened tensions. Meanwhile, Hennessy's daughter, Molly, is introduced as she expresses her support for her suitor, engineer Jim Mallory, who is determined to find a viable route through the Main Divide.

Molly Hennessy (06:19):
"Dad, you mean you're gonna give Jim a chance after all? Oh, that's wonderful."

The Confrontation

Bueller's desperation escalates when he attempts to collaborate with Jim Mallory, aiming to secure both the maps and personal gain.

Burton Bueller (12:17):
"Where are we going? To partnership. Partnership? Well, sure. Two of us looking together might do a lot better than looking separately. Then we could split the 10,000."

Jim Mallory, steadfast in his integrity, refuses to partake in Bueller's schemes, setting the stage for inevitable conflict.

Tensions reach a boiling point when Bueller, feeling cornered, resorts to violence.

Burton Bueller (07:15):
"I'll kill you for this."
Wild Bill Hickok (07:32):
"Get on straight. Now. I'm going to take you to jail to think it over."

The Resolution

As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that Bueller's intentions are far from honorable. After a series of confrontations and strategic maneuvers, Wild Bill and Jingles manage to apprehend Bueller and uncover his deceitful actions.

Wild Bill Hickok (18:35):
"I think we'll find them all right, but we better hurry. I figure a couple of people are getting right impatient about now."

In the climactic final showdown, Bueller's true intentions are exposed, revealing his plan to undermine Wild Bill and secure the railroad maps for himself.

Wild Bill Hickok (19:05):
"Jim Mallory made those maps and Bueller stole them from him an hour ago after they were finished."

Bueller's confrontation with Wild Bill culminates in his realization of the futility of his actions.

Burton Bueller (19:15):
"Somebody stop him."

Ultimately, justice prevails as Bueller is apprehended, and the rightful maps are validated, paving the way for Jim Mallory to marry Molly and secure the railroad route without further obstruction.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a heartfelt resolution, emphasizing themes of integrity, perseverance, and the triumph of good over deceit. Wild Bill Hickok and Jingles celebrate their victory, ensuring peace returns to the Main Divide and setting the stage for future adventures.

Jingles (21:12):
"Shoo Choo."
Wild Bill Hickok (21:13):
"Wild Bill Hickok, thanks for joining us today, folks, and we'll be with you again on Friday."

Notable Quotes

• Wild Bill Hickok (05:13):
  "Through Stow and Hollow and over Eagle Ridge. Somebody's led you wrong, Mr. Bueller. You couldn't put a railroad line over that route in a hundred years."

• Burton Bueller (12:17):
  "Where are we going? To partnership. Partnership? Well, sure. Two of us looking together might do a lot better than looking separately. Then we could split the 10,000."

• Wild Bill Hickok (19:05):
  "Jim Mallory made those maps and Bueller stole them from him an hour ago after they were finished."

Final Thoughts

"Struggle for the Main Divide" adeptly captures the essence of Old Time Radio Westerns, blending suspense, dynamic characters, and moral dilemmas against the expansive backdrop of the Wild West. Andrew Rines' meticulous digital restoration enhances the auditory experience, allowing modern audiences to appreciate the rich storytelling and immersive soundscapes that defined the golden age of radio dramas.

For listeners seeking tales of bravery, cunning, and the relentless pursuit of justice, this episode of Old Time Radio Westerns is a quintessential journey into the heart of the American frontier.