The Mortgage

Originally Aired: October 18, 1959

Gunsmoke #393, "The Mortgage," presents Marshal Matt Dillon with a moral dilemma that strikes at the heart of frontier justice. Wealthy landowner Caleb Andrews arrives at the marshal's office demanding that Dillon serve an order of foreclosure and eviction on Ed Blake, a hardworking farmer who owes $420 on his mortgage. The debt came due just three days ago, but Andrews refuses to wait, despite Ed's legitimate hardships—a broken leg from a horse accident and his family's struggle to bring in a crop. When Dillon tries to reason with the callous creditor, pointing out that Andrews already owns half of Ford County and doesn't need the money, Andrews dismisses his concerns and insists the papers be served immediately.

Dillon reluctantly carries out his duty, delivering the devastating news to Ed's wife Martha at their well-tended farm. With only five days to vacate, the Blake family faces complete ruin. The situation weighs heavily on Dillon's conscience, leading him to question the nature of right and wrong in his profession. When Andrews pushes too far with an insult at the Long Branch Saloon, tensions escalate, and Dillon takes desperate action to try to help the Blakes before time runs out.

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.