Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast Summary

Episode Title: The Mortgage | Gunsmoke (10-18-59)
Host: Andrew Rines
Release Date: February 2, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rines presents a digitally restored version of the classic Gunsmoke episode titled "The Mortgage." Set in the rugged landscape of Dodge City and the surrounding territory, the story delves into the challenges faced by the Blake family as they confront foreclosure and eviction, highlighting the moral dilemmas inherent in law enforcement and personal integrity.

Main Characters

• Matt Dillon (Voiced by William Conrad): The steadfast United States Marshal, dedicated to maintaining law and order in West.
• Chester Proudfoot (Marley Bear): A local bank representative tasked with enforcing foreclosure orders.
• Martha Blake (Georgia Ellis): Wife of Ed Blake, struggling to keep their farm afloat.
• Kitty Russell (Georgia Ellis): A resourceful and compassionate figure in Dodge City.
• Caleb Andrews: The bank's financial backer with vested interests in Ford County's land value.

Plot Overview

Act 1: The Foreclosure Order

The episode opens with Chester Proudfoot presenting Matt Dillon with a court order for the foreclosure and eviction of Ed Blake’s farm due to an unpaid mortgage of $420. Matt, understanding the dire circumstances of the Blakes, tries to persuade Chester to reconsider:

Matt Dillon [04:08]: "It only came due three days ago. You sure didn't waste any time."

Matt Dillon [04:25]: "You own half of Ford county right."

Despite Matt's appeals, Chester remains resolute in his duty, emphasizing the uncompromising nature of their roles.

Act 2: Confrontation with the Blakes

Upon serving the eviction papers, Matt visits the Blakes, where Martha shares the hardships they've endured:

Martha Blake [07:19]: "We were so sure he'd extended. So sure."

Matt offers his assistance, but the weight of his responsibilities leaves him conflicted:

Matt Dillon [09:08]: "And somebody has to be a hangman, too."

Act 3: Internal Struggles and Community Support

Matt grapples with the ethical implications of his job, questioning the morality of enforcing harsh financial decisions. Meanwhile, Chester Proudfoot seeks assistance from Matt to navigate the bank's rigid policies, revealing deeper corporate pressures:

Chester Proudfoot [12:09]: "Bank has stockholders, board of directors. I have to listen to them."

Kitty Russell observes the growing tension and takes initiative to rally community support, offering funds to help the Blakes avoid foreclosure.

Act 4: The Auction and Resolution

Determined to save the Blakes, Matt orchestrates an impromptu auction. Chester Proudfoot attempts to outbid, but Kitty's unexpected generosity shifts the tide:

Kitty Russell [19:13]: "Matt, I can raise $420 right here in the Long Branch."

With the community's backing, the Blakes secure their farm, and Chester Proudfoot faces the repercussions of his actions. The episode concludes with Matt reaffirming the importance of compassion and solidarity within the community.

Notable Quotes

• Matt Dillon [09:04]: "And somebody has to be a hangman, too."

• Chester Proudfoot [12:25]: "Matt, I realize I'm under obligation to you. You saved my life that time the James brothers held me up. Saved the bank, too."

• Martha Blake [16:33]: "I kept waking up nights and hearing mom crying. Dad had set up all night without the lamp lit. And no fire. Not saying anything, just sitting."

• Kitty Russell [19:13]: "Matt, I can raise $420 right here in the Long Branch."

Themes and Insights

• Moral Dilemmas in Law Enforcement: Matt Dillon's internal conflict highlights the delicate balance between duty and personal ethics, a recurring theme in Gunsmoke.

• Community Solidarity: The episode underscores the power of community support in overcoming adversity, as seen through Kitty Russell’s efforts to save the Blake family.

• Impact of Financial Hardship: "The Mortgage" poignantly illustrates the devastating effects of financial struggles on families, emphasizing the human element behind economic transactions.

• Corruption and Integrity: Chester Proudfoot’s character serves as a foil to Matt Dillon, representing the corrupting influence of power and greed, and the challenges of maintaining integrity within rigid systems.

Conclusion

"The Mortgage" is a compelling narrative that blends suspense, emotional depth, and moral inquiry. Through the interactions of well-developed characters and a tightly woven plot, the episode offers listeners a profound exploration of justice, compassion, and community in the unforgiving terrain of the Wild West. Andrew Rines' dedication to digital restoration ensures that this timeless tale is presented with enhanced clarity and richness, inviting both new listeners and long-time fans to immerse themselves in the enduring legacy of Gunsmoke.

Additional Information

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