Lauries Suitor

Originally Aired: March 29, 1959

Gunsmoke #364, "Lauries Suitor," tensions flare in Dodge City when young Laurie Benson finds herself caught between two very different men. Andy Scott, a well-mannered Easterner on a graduation trip from Philadelphia, has been courting Laurie and even discusses marriage with Miss Kitty. But ranch hand Rad Dawson has other ideas. After seeing Andy with Laurie at the Long Branch, Rad warns the young man to stay away, threatening violence if Andy doesn't back off. Despite his partner Bone's teasing about his sudden concern for personal grooming, Rad makes his intentions clear: Laurie's evenings now belong to him alone.

Frightened that Andy's stubborn refusal to be intimidated will lead to bloodshed, Laurie turns to Marshal Matt Dillon for help. She pleads with him to intervene and prevent a confrontation between the two men. Matt sympathizes but warns Laurie that matters of the heart aren't exactly his department, and he can't guarantee either man will listen to reason. As Rad continues his nightly visits to town with the loyal but bemused Bone in tow, the stage is set for a dangerous showdown.

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.