Big Tom

Originally Aired: March 1, 1959

Gunsmoke #360, "Big Tom," presents Matt Dillon with a troubling situation when Doc Adams comes to him with an urgent warning. Big Tom Burr, a lovable drunk who likes to boast about his fighting days in San Francisco, has been goaded into a bare-knuckle match by Joe Brady and Hob Clay. They've brought in a professional fighter from St. Louis named Creel, who apparently defeated Tom once before in what Tom claims was a foul fight. When Tom seeks Doc's help for dizzy spells, Doc examines him and delivers grave news: Tom's health is so poor that fighting could kill him. Tom refuses to back down, explaining that he was called afraid once and has lived with that shame ever since.

Matt faces the difficult challenge of stopping a fight between two grown men while protecting Tom's pride and his life. The situation becomes even more desperate as Doc reveals that Brady and Clay seem to be orchestrating something more sinister than just a simple brawl, leaving Matt to untangle their motives before Tom steps into what could be his final fight.

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.