Cheap Labor: The Price of Freedom and the Weight of a Gun

Originally Aired: June 17, 1956

In Gunsmoke #219, “Cheap Labor,” Dodge City witnesses a quiet, powerful drama when gentle giant Foss Capper befriends Carrie Stansel, a hardworking woman held back by her controlling brother Ben. As Foss and Carrie dream of a life together, Ben’s jealousy explodes—leading to violence, threats, and a town forced to choose sides. When Ben brutally punishes Carrie for defying him, Foss faces a terrible choice: return to the gunfighter’s life he tried to escape, or let her suffer. The story builds to a tense confrontation that exposes the true meaning of courage, sacrifice, and self-worth—on both sides of the law.

Cast:
William Conrad, Parley Baer, Georgia Ellis, Lawrence Dobkin, Vic Perrin, Jean Bates, Barney Phillips, Harry Bartell

Tags:
western, family, gunfighter, WilliamConrad, ParleyBaer, GeorgiaEllis, cheaplabor, oldtimeradio, courage, 1950sradio, classicdrama, romance, abuse, redemption, 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.