Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: "The Wrong Man | Lightning Jim (1952)"

Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of the Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast, host Andrew Rhynes delves into the classic 1952 radio drama titled "The Wrong Man", featuring the intrepid United States Marshal Lightning Jim Whipple and his trusty deputy Whitey Larson. This digitally restored episode transports listeners to the rugged landscapes of the Wild West, enriched with enhanced audio quality that brings every rustle of the desert wind and crack of gunfire to vivid life.

Plot Overview

"The Wrong Man" unfolds in the mining town of Hernandez, New Mexico, a place still reeling from the aftermath of the 1849 gold rush. Despite the establishment of mining companies, lawlessness persists with bandits plundering gold shipments and murdering guards. The U.S. Marshals, led by Lightning Jim Whipple, are tasked with restoring order.

Assignment and Investigation [03:20 - 07:25]

The episode begins with Lane Prentice, the Express Manager of the Aztec Mining Company, briefing Jim and Whitey about their mission to track down the culprits responsible for the recent thefts and murders. Prentice expresses suspicions about the new field boss, Jeff Allen, whose appointment coincides with the uptick in criminal activities.

Lane Prentice [03:20]: "Well, it says in this letter that you boys have been assigned to track down the vermin that's been murdering our guards and stealing our gold."

Determined to get to the bottom of the mystery, Jim and Whitey prepare to investigate, suspecting that Allen may be involved in the crimes.

Encounter with Don Felipe Ramirez [10:11 - 17:03]

Their search leads them to Don Felipe Ramirez, a notable Spanish antique collector at La Casa Ora. Posing as purchasing agents for a wealthy client, Jim and Whitey aim to gain Ramirez’s trust and glean information about the stolen gold.

Jim Whipple [10:31]: "Senor Ramirez, I'm the purchase and agent for a wealthy antique collector in San Francisco whose name I'm not at liberty to disclose."

Ramirez, however, is evasive and protective of his prized Spanish-mounted pistols. Tensions escalate as Ramirez's henchmen grow suspicious of the marshals' true intentions, leading to a confrontation where Ramirez attempts to assert his dominance.

Don Felipe Ramirez [13:36]: "Nevertheless, senor, you will not take them from the wall."

Unveiling the Silver Bullet [16:04 - 23:11]

The marshals discover a silver bullet at the crime scene, a unique clue pointing towards Ramirez's involvement. The circle tightens as evidence surfaces against Ramirez, painting him as the mastermind behind the gold heists and murders.

Jim Whipple [16:07]: "But it wouldn't prove the Don pulled the trigger. That's what we've got to prove."

Ramirez's grip on the town strengthens as he manipulates his henchmen to eliminate the marshals, leading to a tense standoff where Jim is captured and chained alongside Whitey.

The Trap at Limestone Rock [25:19 - 29:10]

Displaying ingenuity under pressure, Lightning Jim devises a plan to trap Ramirez at Limestone Rock. By feigning submission and awaiting an opportune moment, Jim and Whitey set the stage for Ramirez’s downfall. Their strategy culminates in a dramatic confrontation where Jim outsmarts Ramirez, proving his culpability and restoring justice to Hernandez.

Jim Whipple [28:15]: "So lightly personally brought. Don's bullet didn't even nick me. And now I can prove that Don Felipe is the man who's been killing your guard."

Key Characters

• Lightning Jim Whipple: A sharp and determined U.S. Marshal committed to upholding the law and uncovering the truth behind the gold thefts.

  Jim Whipple [16:07]: "But it wouldn't prove the Don pulled the trigger. That's what we've got to prove."

• Whitey Larson: Jim’s loyal deputy, providing support and assistance in their investigative endeavors.

  Whitey Larson [06:07]: "It's a sneaky skunk. I show him something. Oh, missed him by gallop."

• Don Felipe Ramirez: A suave yet sinister antique collector whose deep ties to the local underworld make him a formidable adversary.

  Don Felipe Ramirez [13:36]: "Nevertheless, senor, you will not take them from the wall."

• Jeff Allen: The new field boss at Hernandez Mining Company, initially suspected of malfeasance and later revealed to be innocent.

Notable Quotes

• Jim Whipple on Investigating:

  [03:34] Jim Whipple: "I got some bread and cheese in my pack. We'll eat it on trail."

• Whitey Larson on Danger:

  [06:07] Whitey Larson: "That's a sneakudy skunk. I show him something. Oh, missed him by gallop."

• Don Felipe on Threats:

  [16:05] Don Felipe Ramirez: "Yeah. So that's a store, eh? First time I heard of a killer using a silver bullet."

• Jim Whipple's Resolve:

  [22:28] Jim Whipple: "I'm not a fool, Don Felipe. You're just army enough to do it."

Themes and Insights

"The Wrong Man" explores themes of deception, justice, and the eternal struggle between lawmen and outlaws in the Wild West. The episode underscores the importance of evidence in uncovering the truth and the cleverness required to outmaneuver cunning adversaries. Lightning Jim's unwavering dedication serves as a beacon of righteousness, demonstrating that integrity and ingenuity can triumph over corruption and villainy.

Conclusion

Andrew Rhynes skillfully presents "The Wrong Man", a quintessential Old Time Radio Western that captivates listeners with its intricate plot and dynamic characters. The enhanced audio restoration elevates the storytelling, making the adventures of Lightning Jim Whipple and Whitey Larson resonate with both nostalgic fans and new audiences alike. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Western dramas and the timeless quest for justice in untamed frontiers.

Notable Timestamped Quotes:

• Jim Whipple on Starting the Investigation [03:20]:

  "When you're figuring to start, Marshall?"
  Lane Prentice [03:20]: "Well, it says in this letter that you boys have been assigned to track down the vermin..."

• Whitey Larson on Recognizing Danger [05:16]:

  Whitey Larson [05:16]: "Pedro knows the trail all right..."

• Confrontation at Don Felipe's Rancho [13:22]:

  Don Felipe Ramirez [13:36]: "Do not touch them. Sin. Do not touch."

• Final Showdown and Resolution [28:15]:

  Jim Whipple [28:15]: "So lightly personally brought. Don's bullet didn't even nick me..."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of "The Wrong Man," providing listeners with an insightful overview of the episode's narrative and thematic depth. Whether revisiting a beloved classic or discovering it anew, this rendition offers a thorough appreciation of the timeless tales that define the Old Time Radio Westerns.