Old Time Radio Westerns Podcast: Episode Summary

Title: Waters of Flood | The Cisco Kid
Host: Andrew Rhynes
Release Date: February 25, 2025
Original Air Date: April 8, 1954

1. Episode Overview

In the Old Time Radio Westerns podcast, host Andrew Rhynes resurrects classic Western radio dramas with enhanced digital restoration, offering listeners an immersive auditory experience. The episode titled "Waters of Flood" features The Cisco Kid, a beloved character from the golden age of radio, embodying the archetypal noble hero of the Wild West. This episode, originally aired on April 8, 1954, delves into themes of justice, loyalty, and the eternal conflict between good and evil.

2. Plot Summary

"Waters of Flood" centers around the Cisco Kid's confrontation with outlaws Park Sanders and Jenks Doolan, who are determined to eliminate George Willard, a man who previously thwarted their criminal endeavors.

• Opening Conflict: Park Sanders and Jenks Doolan plan to murder George Willard in broad daylight to avoid suspicion (Approx. [05:30]).

  Park Sanders: "Gotta wait till dark to shoot the old man down, Park. We've taken a chance. In broad daylight like this? Why?"

• Cisco Kid's Intervention: Upon learning about the impending threat, Cisco Kid and his companion Pancho intervene to protect Willard and thwart the outlaws' plans.

• Dynamiting the Dam: Sanders and Doolan escalate their scheme by dynamiting a dam, intending to unleash floodwaters to destroy Willard's property and eliminate any witnesses (Approx. [20:45]).

  Jenks Doolan: "We take Park Sanders and Jenks Doolan to dynamite the dam and send the raging floodwaters downstream toward Willard's house."

• Showdown: The Cisco Kid engages in a series of confrontations with the outlaws, culminating in a dramatic face-off where loyalties are tested, and true motives are revealed (Approx. [35:20]).

  Sheriff: "You are quite welcome, Señor Sheriff."

• Resolution: Through courage and cunning, Cisco Kid successfully neutralizes the threat posed by Sanders and Doolan, ensuring the safety of George Willard and his wife Donna. The episode concludes with Cisco Kid and Pancho riding off, leaving behind a restored sense of justice in the town (Approx. [50:10]).

3. Character Highlights

a. Cisco Kid (Jack Mather)

The protagonist, Cisco Kid, epitomizes the classic Western hero—resourceful, brave, and morally upright. His actions drive the narrative, showcasing his dedication to protecting the innocent and upholding justice.

b. Pancho (Harry Lang)

Cisco's loyal companion, Pancho, provides both support and comic relief. His unwavering friendship with Cisco underscores the themes of loyalty and camaraderie.

c. Park Sanders (Antagonist)

A ruthless gunman determined to assert his dominance by eliminating those who oppose him. His relentless pursuit of power sets the primary conflict in motion.

d. Jenks Doolan (Henchnman)

Park's equally malevolent partner, Jenks assists in carrying out the criminal plans, adding depth to the antagonistic forces Cisco must confront.

e. George Willard

The target of the outlaws, Willard's resistance and previous actions against Park Sanders make him a pivotal character whose fate Cisco seeks to protect.

f. Donna Willard

George's wife, Donna, becomes a collateral target in the conflict, highlighting the personal stakes involved and Cisco's commitment to safeguarding the vulnerable.

g. Sheriff

Initially antagonistic towards Cisco, the Sheriff's perceptions shift as he recognizes Cisco's role in averting a greater calamity, leading to an uneasy alliance.

4. Key Themes and Insights

a. Justice vs. Vengeance

The episode explores the thin line between seeking justice and acting out of vengeance. Cisco Kid's motivations are rooted in protecting the innocent rather than personal vendetta, contrasting sharply with Park Sanders' selfish pursuit of power.

b. Loyalty and Friendship

The bond between Cisco Kid and Pancho emphasizes the importance of loyalty. Their mutual support is crucial in overcoming the challenges posed by the outlaws.

c. Courage in Adversity

Cisco Kid's unwavering bravery in the face of danger serves as an inspirational model of heroism, reinforcing the values of courage and integrity.

d. The Impact of Crime on Community

The actions of Park Sanders and Jenks Doolan threaten not just individuals but the entire community, as evidenced by the plan to flood the town. This underscores how crime can destabilize societal structures and the environment.

e. Redemption and Transformation

The Sheriff's evolution from adversary to reluctant ally with Cisco Kid suggests the potential for personal growth and redemption, even among those initially resistant to change.

5. Notable Quotes

Throughout the episode, several impactful lines underscore character motivations and thematic elements:

• Park Sanders on Power:

  Park Sanders: "I want to keep it for myself. Don't make any difference. I'll teach these bushwhackers around here that when Park Sanders wants a thing, he gets it."
  (Approx. [06:15])

• Cisco Kid on Justice:

  Cisco Kid: "You got something to do with that shooting, See, Pancho? We will go and find out what it meant."
  (Approx. [22:30])

• Sheriff's Transformation:

  Sheriff: "You are quite welcome, señor Sheriff."
  (Approx. [47:50])

• Pancho on Loyalty:

  Pancho: "It's nice to ride like this. Go where we want to."
  (Approx. [52:40])

• Donna's Plea:

  Donna: "Better stand up. I don't know, Cisco. I'll be caught. You must."
  (Approx. [44:10])

6. Conclusion

"Waters of Flood" is a quintessential episode that encapsulates the spirit of Old Time Radio Westerns. Through its engaging narrative and well-developed characters, it offers listeners a compelling story of heroism, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Andrew Rhynes' dedication to digital restoration breathes new life into this classic tale, making it accessible and captivating for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. The Cisco Kid's triumph over adversity serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring values that define the Wild West.

Credits:
The Cisco Kid was portrayed by Jack Mather, with Pancho voiced by Harry Lang. This episode is a presentation of otrwesterns.com, dedicated to preserving and sharing classic Western radio dramas.

Listen Again: To relive this thrilling adventure or explore more episodes, visit otrwesterns.com, follow their Facebook, subscribe to their YouTube channel, or become a ranch hand for exclusive content.

Note: Timestamps are approximate and based on the transcript's structure, with the main narrative interspersed between promotional segments.