Old Beller

Originally Aired: July 26, 1959

Gunsmoke #381, "Old Beller,"

Marshal Matt Dillon accompanies Doc Adams to a trail camp after receiving an unusual summons—a drover has threatened to kill Doc if he doesn't cure a patient. When they arrive at trail boss Hobb Waddell's camp, they discover the patient isn't human at all. Old Beller, a legendary lead steer worth more than ten good cowhands, has taken ill. The temperamental animal is famous throughout Texas for his ability to control entire herds, leading cattle across impossible streams and keeping them calm during storms. Doc reluctantly examines the animal and determines Old Beller has cured himself, though he suggests the steer might have eaten something poisonous.

Waddell immediately blames Charlie, the camp cook who's been feeding table scraps to Old Beller, and fires him on the spot despite the old cook's tearful protests that he would never harm his friend. The heartbroken Charlie, with nowhere to go, ends up drinking away his sorrows in Dodge City, where he encounters Ab Slate, a man from a previous trail drive who seems very interested in Charlie's unfortunate situation with the famous lead steer.

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.