Personal Justice

Originally Aired: September 27, 1959

In Gunsmoke #390, "Personal Justice," Matt Dillon brings a prisoner named Reed Morley to Wichita to stand trial for the murder of a woman. Before Matt can even get a hot bath after the dusty journey from Dodge, he's confronted by Clayt Morley, Reed's older brother, who insists that no one with the Morley name could commit such a crime. Clayt makes his position chillingly clear: if Reed isn't acquitted and walks out of the courthouse a free man, Matt won't live to see him hang. Despite calling it an appeal to Matt's sense of justice and honor, the threat is unmistakable.

Throughout their stay in Wichita, Clayt shadows Matt and Chester, repeatedly reminding the marshal of his "continued interest" in Matt's health and welfare. When the trial concludes, Matt faces a troubling situation where the verdict may not align with justice, and Clayt Morley's dangerous obsession with family honor threatens to exact a terrible price. Matt must navigate between doing his duty as a lawman and surviving a man who believes personal justice supersedes the law.

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.