Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode: The Dead Give Away – Tales of the Texas Rangers (12-02-51)
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: March 26, 2025

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rhynes transports listeners back to December 2, 1951, with the classic radio drama The Dead Give Away from the series Tales of the Texas Rangers. Narrated by Joel McCrea, the story delves into a harrowing case involving Sheriff Ross and Ranger Jace Pearson as they unravel a mysterious and tragic event in West Texas.

The Crime Scene

The episode opens at 1:30 AM on December 4, 1945, at the farmhouse of Mrs. Mary Lou Simmons, located four miles from Ashton, West Texas. Mrs. Simmons frantically attempts to contact the sheriff, desperately reporting a suspicious presence outside her home and the impending danger to her family.

[02:02] Mary Lou Simmons: "Operator. Operator. Oh, please. Operator. Thank you. Operator, get me the sheriff, quickly."

Upon Sheriff Ross's arrival, he discovers the grim scene: Mrs. Deneen and her four-month-old baby have been brutally murdered. Shocked by the lack of forced entry or a clear motive, Sheriff Ross calls in the Texas Rangers for assistance, assigning Ranger Jace Pearson to the case.

Initial Investigation

Ranger Pearson arrives swiftly, and together with Sheriff Ross, they begin scrutinizing the crime scene. Their initial assessment rules out robbery, as no significant valuables were taken, and Mr. Deneen's purse remained untouched on the kitchen table.

[04:55] Ranger Jace Pearson: "Well, it wasn't robbery then, Sheriff."

The duo examines the side door, noting an open lock, which leads them to discover a piece of baling wire shaped like a key.

[06:02] Ranger Jace Pearson: "Piece of baling wire bent in the shape of a key."

Suspecting foul play beyond a mere prowler, Pearson hypothesizes that the wire might have been deliberately planted to mislead the investigation.

Piecing Together Clues

As night progresses, Ross and Pearson follow faint traces outside, hoping to track the perpetrator. The frozen ground offers little in the way of clues, but incremental evidence begins to surface, including a cigarette butt and distinct tire treads that hint at the killer's identity.

Ranger Pearson's expertise leads them to question the integrity of the initial evidence, suspecting that the wire was a red herring designed to throw them off the trail.

[06:15] Ranger Jace Pearson: "This wire isn't strong enough to turn the tumbler in the lock."

Their investigation points towards Walter Deneen, Mrs. Deneen's husband, who reportedly was out on business in Abilene. However, inconsistencies in his alibi and unusual behavior raise suspicions.

The Trail to Abilene

Determined to verify Mr. Deneen's whereabouts, Ranger Pearson and Sheriff Ross delve deeper into his activities. Their journey takes them to the Harris Hotel in Abilene, where they uncover that Mr. Deneen's car was carefully monitored, and his movements meticulously recorded. However, discrepancies arise when examining the temperature gauge and mileage in his vehicle, suggesting that Mr. Deneen could not have traveled as claimed.

[13:24] Ranger Jace Pearson: "Yeah. Only it should be pretty warm if he finished the drive a couple of hundred miles. Just ten minutes ago."

Further interrogation of Mary Lou Simmons reveals that she overheard all of Mrs. Deneen's final moments but only heard her plead, with no additional voices detected.

[14:19] Mary Lou Simmons: "Oh, cross my heart. I heard it is plain."

The Breakthrough

The pivotal moment arrives when lab reports identify fingerprints on Mr. Deneen's car belonging to Joe Crofton, a parolee with a violent history. Recognizing Crofton's involvement in a previous murder, Ranger Pearson realizes the threat he poses.

[22:28] Ranger Jace Pearson: "Crofton must be the killer. Then chase."

Sheriff Ross and Ranger Pearson mount a pursuit, tracing Crofton's path to Casket Mountain. Their relentless tracking leads them to Crofton's secluded cabin, where they anticipate a confrontation.

Confrontation and Resolution

Upon reaching Crofton's cabin, the Rangers find no immediate sign of life. Their suspicions are confirmed when they locate a misleading suicide note, which Ranger Pearson deduces was fabricated by Walter Deneen to implicate Crofton falsely.

As they navigate the rugged terrain, Crofton attempts to evade capture but is ultimately cornered. A tense standoff ensues, culminating in Crofton being subdued and arrested.

[25:32] Ranger Jace Pearson: "But Walter Deneen wrote that. And that note's gonna hang him."

In the aftermath, it's revealed that Walter Deneen orchestrated the entire scheme, employing Crofton to eliminate his family and secure his financial standing. This revelation not only resolves the case but also underscores the depths of human deceit and the unwavering pursuit of justice by the Texas Rangers.

Conclusion

The Dead Give Away masterfully weaves a tale of mystery, betrayal, and law enforcement prowess. Through meticulous investigation and steadfast determination, Ranger Jace Pearson and Sheriff Ross bring a heinous crime to light, ensuring that justice prevails despite the elaborate attempts to conceal the truth.

[28:19] Ranger Jace Pearson: "So no matter what happens, we got to take him."

This episode stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Texas Rangers and their commitment to safeguarding justice in the untamed frontier.

Notable Quotes:

• Mary Lou Simmons at [02:02]: "Operator. Operator. Oh, please. Operator. Thank you. Operator, get me the sheriff, quickly."
• Ranger Jace Pearson at [06:02]: "Piece of baling wire bent in the shape of a key."
• Ranger Jace Pearson at [22:28]: "Crofton must be the killer. Then chase."
• Ranger Jace Pearson at [28:19]: "So no matter what happens, we got to take him."

Final Remarks: Andrew Rhynes expertly curates this episode, enhancing the original 1951 radio drama with digitally restored audio that enriches every nuance of the Wild West atmosphere. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe, rate, and engage with the podcast community through various platforms to continue enjoying these timeless tales.