Groats Grudge

Originally Aired: February 8, 1959

Gunsmoke #357, "Groats Grudge," a brooding Southern gentleman named Yancey Groat arrives in Dodge City with deadly preparations on his mind. He visits gunsmith Walt Dow to have an old Confederate pistol restored to firing condition, telling him the gun "missed its chance once" and won't miss again. He orders a cheap Yankee-style army coffin from the storekeeper and asks Chester to arrange for a preacher, explaining matter-of-factly that the man isn't dead yet but will be soon. The man he's waiting for is Tom Haskett, who's riding into Dodge with a cattle herd.

When Matt Dillon confronts Groat at the Dodge House, the somber visitor makes no attempt to hide his intentions. He freely admits he plans to kill Haskett with the restored Confederate pistol, saying he's already been waiting too many years and once made the mistake of saving Haskett's life. Despite Matt's warning, Groat remains coldly determined, insisting nothing the marshal says or does will stop him from settling this long-festering grudge when Haskett arrives in town.

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.