Bringing Down Father: The Trail Boss’s Burden

Originally Aired: March 11, 1956

In Gunsmoke #205, “Bringing Down Father,” Dodge City is rocked by murder and betrayal when a young cattleman named Andy Gilden accuses trail boss Harley Burke of shooting an unarmed man. As Matt Dillon investigates, the truth behind the killing and a $20,000 cattle sale is tangled in pride, hate, and a son’s desperate need to prove himself. With suspicion falling on everyone, Matt must unravel a web of lies, loyalty, and family secrets—before more blood is spilled. In a story where friendship and duty collide, even the best intentions can have tragic consequences.

Cast:
William Conrad, Parley Baer, Howard McNear, Georgia Ellis, William Idelson, Lawrence Dobkin, Vic Perrin

Tags:
Western, cattle, DodgeCity, betrayal, murder, WilliamConrad, ParleyBaer, HowardMcNear, GeorgiaEllis, WilliamIdelson, LawrenceDobkin, VicPerrin, oldtimeradio, classicradio, 1950sdrama, fatherandson, loyalty, suspense, Gunsmoke, traildrive, vintagewestern

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.