Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: The Spider Woman | Hopalong Cassidy
Original Air Date: December 22, 1951
Release Date: July 10, 2025
Host: Andrew Rines

Introduction

In this gripping episode of Old Time Radio Westerns, host Andrew Rines breathes new life into the classic Hopalong Cassidy saga titled The Spider Woman. Originally aired on December 22, 1951, this digitally restored drama transports listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Old West, where legendary hero Hopalong Cassidy, portrayed by William Boyd, and his trusty sidekick California, voiced by Andy Clyde, navigate a web of mystery and danger.

Plot Overview

The story begins with Hopalong Cassidy and California camping near the trail to Gold City. Their peaceful night is disrupted when they encounter Annie Semple, an enigmatic old woman being pursued by a group of men. Annie claims that these men are attempting to lynch her and curses anyone who tries to harm her.

Notable Quote:

• Hopalong Cassidy ([01:25]): "The adventure we bring you now is one we call the Spider Woman. In this one, both California and I died. Now, this may sound a little confusing, but it isn't half as confused as we were."

As Hopalong decides to protect Annie, tensions escalate when one of the pursuers, St. John, accuses her of causing mysterious deaths among men who had connections to the local gold mine, the Yankee Dandy. Hopalong remains skeptical of the curse and suspects foul play behind the deaths.

Notable Quote:

• St. John ([03:19]): "Now she's put a curse on still a fall."
• Hopalong Cassidy ([03:30]): "Ah, maybe she's right when she called you fools. You certainly talk like it."

The situation takes a dire turn when California appears to fall victim to Annie's supposed curse, leading Hopalong to investigate further. The duo discovers that the deaths were not supernatural but orchestrated by St. John and his associate Jed Crutch to gain control over the Yankee Dandy and its untapped gold veins.

Notable Quote:

• Hopalong Cassidy ([22:03]): "I intend to be. But I haven't any proof."
• St. John ([23:28]): "You came to give it to you whether you wanted it or not."

Conflict and Investigation

As Hopalong delves deeper, he confronts the true motive behind the murders: financial greed tied to the gold mine. St. John's facade begins to crumble as evidence mounts against him. However, St. John attempts to eliminate Hopalong by poisoning him, leading to a dramatic showdown where Hopalong cleverly turns the tables by consuming the tainted drink himself.

Notable Quote:

• Hopalong Cassidy ([26:19]): "It wasn't coffee. But if drinking tea helps me to catch two murderers like you, I'm gonna learn to."

In the ensuing confrontation, St. John's deceit is fully exposed. The alliance between St. John and Crutch falls apart as they attempt to accuse each other, revealing the depth of their corruption. Hopalong's unwavering sense of justice ultimately ensures that the true culprits face the consequences of their actions.

Resolution

The episode concludes with Hopalong Cassidy and California reaffirming their commitment to upholding justice in the Wild West. Annie Semple is cleared of the accusations, and the community can breathe a sigh of relief as the true villains are brought to justice. The narrative sets the stage for future adventures, hinting at more challenges awaiting the heroic duo.

Notable Quote:

• Narrator ([26:40]): "When next we meet for another exciting adventure with Hoppy and California, don't be too surprised to find them tangled up with a pack of wild beasts. For our story is called the Killers of Lyon Canyon."

Key Themes and Insights

• Justice vs. Superstition: The episode juxtaposes Hopalong's rational approach to justice against the villagers' superstitious fear of curses, highlighting the triumph of reason over fear.

• Greed and Corruption: St. John and Crutch embody the destructive nature of greed, willing to murder and manipulate to control valuable resources.

• Friendship and Loyalty: The unwavering bond between Hopalong Cassidy and California underscores the importance of loyalty in overcoming adversity.

Conclusion

The Spider Woman serves as a quintessential example of Old Time Radio Westerns, blending suspense, mystery, and classic Western tropes. Through stellar performances and a well-crafted narrative, the episode not only entertains but also imparts timeless lessons about justice, integrity, and the human spirit. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer, this restored episode promises an engaging and immersive journey into the heart of the Old West.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Hopalong Cassidy ([01:25]): "The adventure we bring you now is one we call the Spider Woman. In this one, both California and I died. Now, this may sound a little confusing, but it isn't half as confused as we were."

• Annie Semple ([19:29]): "The fellow you met that day I met you. The one with the big mouth that was all set to organize a lynching."

• Hopalong Cassidy ([22:03]): "I intend to be. But I haven't any proof."

• St. John ([25:24]): "You try to shut me up."

• Hopalong Cassidy ([26:19]): "It wasn't coffee. But if drinking tea helps me to catch two murderers like you, I'm gonna learn to."

These poignant moments capture the essence of the characters and the unfolding drama, providing listeners with memorable highlights from the episode.

Embark on this adventure with Hopalong Cassidy and California, and experience the timeless allure of Old Time Radio Westerns, masterfully restored to captivate both nostalgic listeners and new audiences alike.