Alarm at Pleasant Valley: Birth, Bloodshed, and a New Beginning

Originally Aired: September 10, 1955

Alarm at Pleasant Valley: Birth, Bloodshed, and a New Beginning

Marshal Dillon and Chester come upon a horrifying massacre at a remote homestead—evidence of a Kiowa renegade raid. As they return to Dodge, they cross paths with a new family bound for California, but tensions rise when the expectant mother’s condition and fear of further Indian attacks push them to consider abandoning their land. When the renegades strike again, the Frasers must take shelter and fight for their lives. With Alice Fraser in labor and the enemy closing in, only a desperate signal fire and the hope of a cavalry rescue stand between life and death. In the end, a new baby and a newfound resolve mark the birth of both a child and a home.

Keywords: “Gunsmoke Pleasant Valley episode,” “Indian renegade attack,” “Marshal Dillon family rescue,” “Chester cavalry smoke signal,” “pioneer birth in danger,” “homesteading frontier western,” “Sam and Alice Fraser story,” “1955 Gunsmoke radio drama”

Cast: William Conrad (Matt Dillon), Parley Baer (Chester), Vic Perrin (Sam Fraser), Helen Kleeb (Ma Fraser), Eleanor Tannen (Alice Fraser), Sam Edwards (Tad Fraser), John Dehner, Georgia Ellis (Kitty), Howard McNear (Doc)

Welcome to Gunsmoke: Old West Stories, a podcast that takes you back to the rugged plains of 1870s Dodge City, Kansas. Rediscover the timeless tales of bravery, justice, and survival in the American frontier with our re-broadcasts of the classic Gunsmoke radio program.

First airing on April 26, 1952, Gunsmoke was celebrated as the first adult western radio show, renowned for its superb storytelling and exceptional production quality. Join Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by the incomparable William Conrad, as he faces the challenges of maintaining law and order in a tumultuous town. Alongside him are unforgettable characters like Chester Proudfoot (Parley Baer), the steadfast deputy; Kitty (Georgia Ellis), the resilient saloon owner; and Doc Adams (Howard McNear), the town’s compassionate physician.

What sets Gunsmoke apart is not just its stellar cast and engaging plots but the immersive sound effects that bring each scene to life. Every gunshot, horse gallop, and whisper of the wind transports you directly to the heart of the Old West.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, Gunsmoke: Old West Stories promises to deliver gripping adventures and a nostalgic journey through one of radio’s most iconic series. Tune in and let the legends of Dodge City captivate your imagination.