Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Episode Summary
Title: The Cowboy Dentist with Smiley Burnette
Original Air Date: September 29, 1946
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines
Introduction
In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines transports listeners back to the golden age of radio with the classic Western radio drama, "The Cowboy Dentist." Featuring the legendary cowboy comedian Smiley Burnette, this digitally restored episode from the All Star Western Theatre series promises rich audio quality and immersive storytelling that enhances the original charm of 1940s Westerns.
Setting and Main Characters
Hereford Flats serves as the backdrop for our story, a quintessential Western town where the unique characters navigate humorous and adventurous situations.
- Dr. Smiley Burnett (played by Smiley Burnette): The town's only dentist, blending medical duties with comedic antics.
- Custer King (portrayed by Joe Forte): The bumbling yet endearing cowboy dentist whose unconventional methods drive much of the episode's humor.
- Elmer Loudermilk (voiced by Al Slow): A patient with peculiar dental issues and a penchant for trouble.
- Jim Glossop (played by Jimmy Dean): A bank robber with an unusual getaway plan involving balloons.
- Hiram Pettigrew (portrayed by Boy Willing): The ever-patient sheriff of Hereford Flats.
Plot Overview
The episode kicks off in Hereford Flats' dental office, where Dr. Custer King attends to his quirky patient, Elmer Loudermilk. Elmer's strange requests and humorous dialogue set the stage for a series of comedic events that intertwine dental mishaps with a daring bank robbery.
The Dental Antics
Elmer Loudermilk (02:33) arrives complaining about needing another tooth pulled, despite there being no apparent issue. As Dr. King grapples with Elmer's nonsensical requests, the introduction of dental gas reveals Dr. King's unconventional use of medical tools, blurring the lines between dentistry and shenanigans.
- Notable Quote:
Elmer Loudermilk [07:33]: "I want you to pull another tooth, Doc."
The Bank Robbery
The tranquility of Hereford Flats is shattered when a masked bandit robs the local bank, fleeing the scene with a peculiar method: attaching the stolen money to a balloon filled with gas.
- Notable Quote:
Smiley Burnett [15:30]: "Well, that's the strange part about the whole thing."
The Unlikely Pursuit
Determined to catch the robber, Dr. King employs his dubious dental gas to subdue suspects, inadvertently involving Elmer in his comedic pursuit. The balloon filled with gas becomes a critical clue, leading to the bandit's unconventional escape plan.
- Notable Quote:
Custer King [21:33]: "Now look here, Hiram."
Key Events and Humor
-
Elmer's Peculiar Dental Issues (07:22 - 10:14):
- Elmer requests an unnecessary tooth extraction, leading to humorous exchanges about dental health and odd behaviors.
-
Introduction of Jim Glossop (10:14 - 15:00):
- Jim Glossop arrives with a genuine toothache, contrasting his later revelation as the bank robber. His eccentric behavior and obsession with dreams of Betty Grable add layers of humor.
-
Discovery of the Balloon (19:35 - 20:00):
- Elmer spots the balloon floating over Dr. King's office, prompting a frantic but funny search using a "squirrel rifle."
-
Climactic Capture (20:46 - 22:56):
- The balloon, filled with gas, leads to the dramatic yet comedic capture of Jim Glossop, who reveals his elaborate but flawed plan.
-
Notable Quote:
Custer King [13:00]: "Putting it in a hat box." -
Notable Quote:
Jim Glossop [22:11]: "Let the doc put me to sleep."
Music and Song Performances
Interspersed throughout the episode are original songs performed by Smiley Burnette and the Riders of the Purple Sage, enhancing the Western atmosphere and providing comedic relief.
- "Someone Won Your Heart, Little Darling" [04:51 - 06:34]: A heartfelt song that contrasts the episode's humor.
- "The Dennis Song" [24:22 - 26:25]: A humorous number written specifically for this episode, featuring sound effects and playful lyrics about Dr. King's dental practices.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with the successful capture of Jim Glossop, thanks to Dr. King's unorthodox methods and a bit of luck. Smiley Burnette's final song ties the narrative together, leaving listeners entertained by the blend of humor, music, and classic Western storytelling.
Notable Quote:
Smiley Burnett [23:48]: "Smiley, I think right about now we ought to have you sing the song that you wrote especially for your appearance on the All Star Western Theater today."
Final Thoughts
"The Cowboy Dentist with Smiley Burnette" exemplifies the charm of old-time Western radio dramas, combining comedic elements with adventurous plots. The digital restoration by Old Time Radio Westerns ensures that every subtle sound—from the clink of dental tools to the whoosh of the balloon—is crisp and immersive, offering both nostalgia and fresh enjoyment for new listeners.
For fans of classic radio and Westerns, this episode is a delightful journey into the whimsical world of Hereford Flats, where even a cowboy dentist can become an unlikely hero.
Credits:
Guest Stars:
- Smiley Burnett as Dr. Smiley Burnett
- Al Slow as Elmer Loudermilk
- Joe Forte as Custer King
- Jimmy Dean as Jim Glossop
- Boy Willing as Hiram Pettigrew
Music: Riders of the Purple Sage
Production: All Star Western Theatre, courtesy of Republic Pictures
Host: Andrew Rines
Connect with Old Time Radio Westerns:
- Website: otrwesterns.com
- Facebook: otrwesterns.com/Facebook
- YouTube: otrwesterns.com/YouTube
- Email: podcasttrwesterns.com
- Phone: 707-986-8739
Thank you for listening to the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast. Don't forget to like, rate, and subscribe to support more classic Western adventures!