Buffalo Hunter: A Dark Trail of Betrayal

In this compelling episode of Gunsmoke, a hardened buffalo hunter named Gatliff rides into Dodge City with a wagonload of hides and a grievously injured buffalo skinner named Billy. Billy’s face has been burned with molten lead, and despite Doc’s best efforts, the young skinner doesn’t survive the night. When questioned, Gatliff dismisses Billy as a mere bum, unwilling to even pay for his burial, claiming that Billy’s injuries were an accident from melting lead for bullets.

However, Marshal Matt Dillon has his doubts about Gatliff’s story, suspecting foul play. Dillon’s suspicions are further fueled when a local settler, known as a nester, is found murdered—stabbed to death in a similar brutal manner. As Dillon digs deeper into the mystery, he uncovers the disturbing truth behind the injuries and deaths, realizing that Gatliff is hiding a dark secret that may cost more lives if he isn’t stopped.

This episode is part of a series of re-runs requested by listeners, showcasing a fan-favorite story from earlier broadcasts on May 9, 1953, and October 24, 1953. The atmospheric storytelling and intense character portrayals by William Conrad as Marshal Dillon make this a standout tale of suspense and frontier justice.

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Tune in to Buffalo Hunter to hear the chilling story of a lawman’s quest for justice in a town where danger and deceit lurk just beneath the surface.

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.