Unwanted Deputy

Originally Aired: May 3, 1959

Gunsmoke #369, "Unwanted Deputy," finds Matt Dillon facing an unusual problem when Vince Wiley rides into Dodge City with a hidden agenda. Wiley eagerly offers his services as a deputy, claiming he has a deep interest in law enforcement and exceptional skill with a gun. Though Matt politely declines, Wiley begins inserting himself into disturbances around town anyway, stopping fights and disarming troublemakers before they escalate. His efficiency impresses the townspeople, including Kitty, who praises his ability to keep the peace without the usual property damage. Even Chester finds himself defending his position when locals like Mr. Dobie suggest Wiley would make a fine official deputy.

What Matt suspects but others don't realize is that Wiley has a darker purpose behind his helpful facade. In the opening scene, Wiley's woman Maisie tries desperately to dissuade him from his true mission: revenge against the marshal who turned in his brother Billy, leading to Billy's hanging. Wiley has devised a calculated plan to force Matt into a gunfight where the marshal will draw first, allowing Wiley to kill him and ride away free, having fulfilled his promise to his dead brother.

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.