Doubtful Zone: The Girl Who Wore Boots

Originally Aired: February 17, 1957

In Gunsmoke #254, “Doubtful Zone,” Marshal Matt Dillon is drawn into a case that's more heartache than crime when a store break-in leads him to a runaway girl named Willie Beeper. Fleeing a brutal home life and dry farm drudgery, Willie wants only a fresh start—with a stolen pistol, a stolen shirt, and a bottle of Paris perfume she couldn’t resist. As her reckless choices close in around her, the law catches up—but so does tragedy. A poignant story of youth, desperation, and the quiet cruelties that drive a child too far.

Cast: William Conrad, Parley Baer, Georgia Ellis, Howard McNear

Tags:
western, comingofage, tragedy, WilliamConrad, ParleyBaer, GeorgiaEllis, HowardMcNear, oldtimeradio, classicwestern, 1950sradio, runaway, hardship, dryfarm, girlpower, bittersweet, 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.