Relic Radio Sci-Fi: "The Colony" by The CBS Radio Mystery Theater
Release Date: July 21, 2025
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
Description: "The Colony" is a gripping episode from The CBS Radio Mystery Theater, presented by Relic Radio Sci-Fi. This science fiction thriller explores the eerie events in the small town of Colony, New Hampshire, where alien activities threaten the very essence of the town's inhabitants.
Introduction to Colony
The story unfolds with Michael and Mary Duncan on a three-week camping trip across New England. As they navigate through the picturesque landscapes, their journey takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a mysterious object on a highway in Colony, New Hampshire.
Notable Quote:
May Norton [00:01]: "Relic Radio."
EG Marshall [00:30]: "It is my duty to delve into unfrequented places in search of the unexpected ideal in that touch of the improbable which gives a series of events the quality we call mystery."
The UFO Sighting
While seeking a campsite near Essex, the Duncans stumble upon what appears to be an unidentified flying object (UFO). The vehicle's vicinity shows signs of attempted landing, including burned grass and rocket flames.
Key Moments:
- 00:30-02:02: Introduction by the host, EG Marshall, setting the mysterious tone.
- 05:16-07:02: Michael and Mary discuss the UFO sighting, expressing disbelief and concern about reporting it.
Notable Quotes:
Michael Duncan [05:18]: "Three weeks, Mary. Three more weeks of gypsying... Just can't believe it."
Mary Duncan [07:02]: "The ground's burned to a crisp in that big circle. Was the thing that big?"
Encounter with Sheriff Thad Marcus
The Duncans report the UFO sighting to Sheriff Thad Marcus, who initially appears skeptical. However, as the conversation progresses, it becomes evident that the sheriff may be under external influence.
Key Moments:
- 08:09-10:14: Sheriff Marcus questions their sobriety, hinting at ulterior motives behind their detainment.
- 13:18-14:53: May Norton, a local resident, advises the Duncans to leave Colony immediately, revealing her own experiences with alien control.
Notable Quotes:
Sheriff Thad Marcus [22:07]: "Roy Beecher thought he saw a flying saucer drunk... Anybody thinks he sees a flying saucer, he's been drinking too much."
May Norton [14:03]: "If I was you and wanted to finish my nice vacation like I planned... I wouldn't spend one more minute than I had to in the town of Colony."
Revelation of Alien Control
May Norton divulges the dark history of Colony, explaining that the town's residents have been covertly controlled by aliens. She recounts her own battle against the alien influence, attributing her resistance to her ancestral stubbornness.
Key Moments:
- 27:41-33:03: May narrates the initial alien landings and subsequent mind control over the townspeople.
- 31:12-33:16: She describes the process of "conversion" where aliens take over human minds, except for her.
Notable Quotes:
May Norton [32:18]: "They put me in the dentist's and put the hair dryer thing over my head... I had nothing to do with what my body thought or said or did. I'd been possessed."
Michael Duncan [32:51]: "But what about the others? I mean, all the rest of the people who've been taken over?"
The Sheriff's True Intentions
As night falls, it's revealed that Sheriff Marcus and Mayor Arnie Stebbins are actively collaborating with the aliens to subjugate the Duncans. The town prepares for another round of conversion at the town hall's basement laboratory.
Key Moments:
- 39:55-42:22: Mayor Stebbins discusses plans to convert the Duncans, highlighting the town's compliance.
- 43:30-47:24: The Duncans realize the depth of the town's alien control and devise a plan to resist.
Notable Quotes:
Sheriff Thad Marcus [46:20]: "Make him stop."
Michael Duncan [45:20]: "How can you do a thing like that?"
The Battle for Freedom
During the takeover ceremony, Michael and Mary confront the alien-controlled officials. Their impassioned pleas inspire the real selves of Sheriff Marcus and Mayor Stebbins to resist the alien possession.
Key Moments:
- 44:19-46:56: The Duncans' speech ignites a collective awakening among the town's leaders.
- 46:56-47:24: The real Thad Marcus breaks free, signaling the liberation of the town's residents.
Notable Quotes:
Michael Duncan [45:20]: "You can do it if you try... Think yourself your own man, and you will be your own man."
May Norton [46:56]: "It ain't quite 24 hours yet, Mr. Duncan, and more than half of them's free already."
Conclusion and Aftermath
With the townspeople freed from alien control, Colony begins to return to normalcy. Michael and Mary, having thwarted the alien agenda, are free to continue their journey, leaving behind a town that will rebuild and recover from its ordeal.
Notable Quotes:
May Norton [47:37]: "We are all right now. Or soon we'll be, all of us."
EG Marshall [48:03]: "Colony is just another small New England town these days... But they remember Arnie Stebbins never meets with the town council without wondering if they are all truly themselves."
Production Highlights
- Cast: Tony Roberts, Morgan Fairchild, Francis Sturgis, Sternhagen, Jackson Beck, and Guy Sorrell.
- Direction: Hyman Brown.
- Sponsorship: Buick Motor Division and Sign Off Sinus Medicines.
Closing Remarks: EG Marshall wraps up the episode by reflecting on the pervasive nature of UFO phenomena and the importance of vigilance, inviting listeners to return for more mysterious adventures.
Final Quote:
EG Marshall [49:55]: "Radio Mystery Theater was sponsored in part by Buick Motor Division... Until next time, pleasant dreams."
Key Takeaways
- Themes: The episode delves into themes of control, resistance, and the power of individual will against oppressive forces.
- Character Development: May Norton's character serves as a pivotal figure showcasing resilience and the potential to combat alien domination.
- Suspense and Resolution: The narrative builds suspense effectively, culminating in a satisfying resolution where the protagonists overcome the antagonistic forces.
For those who haven't experienced "The Colony," this episode offers a compelling blend of classic science fiction elements with a timeless battle between autonomy and control, all brought to life through the immersive medium of old-time radio.