Buffalo Man: Beasts, Beatings, and a Promise Kept

Originally Aired: May 20, 1956

In Gunsmoke #215, “Buffalo Man,” Marshal Dillon and Chester stumble into a brutal world on the buffalo range, where a headless corpse and a camp ruled by violent hunter Ben Siple set off a chain of danger and abuse. Captured and tied up, Dillon and Chester’s only hope is Abby, a battered woman trapped in Siple’s camp, who risks everything to help them. A tense encounter with the Pawnee leads to a trade of justice for freedom—and a chance for Abby to escape her tormentor. But when Siple tracks her down in Dodge, Dillon must keep his promise that Abby will never be hurt again. A gripping tale of cruelty, courage, and a hard-won second chance.

Cast:
William Conrad, Parley Baer, Georgia Ellis, Howard McNear, Vic Perrin, John Dehner, Helen Kleeb, Lawrence Dobkin

Tags:
western, survival, WilliamConrad, ParleyBaer, GeorgiaEllis, HowardMcNear, buffaloman, oldtimeradio, domesticabuse, Pawnee, frontier, 1950sradio, classicdrama, justice, rescue, suspensepodcast

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.