Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Father Knows Best "Tax Interruptions" (03-15-51)

Tax Interruptions (Aired March 15, 1951)


The series began August 25, 1949, on NBC Radio. Set in the Midwest, it starred Robert Young as General Insurance agent Jim Anderson. His wife Margaret was first portrayed by June Whitley and later by Jean Vander Pyl. The Anderson children were Betty (Rhoda Williams), Bud (Ted Donaldson) and Kathy (Norma Jean Nillson). Others in the cast were Eleanor Audley, Herb Vigran and Sam Edwards. Sponsored through most of its run by General Foods, the series was heard Thursday evenings on NBC until March 25, 1954. The show is often regarded as an example of the conservative and paternalistic nature of American family life in the 1950s and it is also cited as an overly rosy portrayal of American family life. On the radio program, the character of Jim differs from the later television character. The radio Jim is far more sarcastic and shows he really "rules" over his family. Jim also calls his children names, something common on radio but lost in the TV series; for example, Jim says, "What a bunch of stupid children I have." Margaret is portrayed as a paragon of solid reason and patience, unless the plot calls for her to act a bit off. For example, in a Halloween episode, Margaret cannot understand how the table floats in the air, but that is a rare exception. Betty, on radio, is portrayed as a status seeking, boy-crazy teenage girl. To her, every little thing is "the worst thing that could ever happen." Bud, on radio, is portrayed as an "all-American" boy who always seems to need "just a bit more" money, though he gets $1.25 per week in allowance.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Duffy's Tavern "The Tavern Loses It's Lease" (03-23-51)

The Tavern Loses It's Lease (Aired March 23, 1951)


Duffy's Tavern, an American radio situation comedy (CBS, 1941-1942; NBC-Blue Network, 1942-1944; NBC, 1944-1952), often featured top-name stage and film guest stars but always hooked those around the misadventures, get-rich-quick-scheming, and romantic missteps of the title establishment's malaprop-prone, metaphor-mixing manager, Archie, played by the writer/actor who co-created the show, Ed Gardner. In the show's familiar opening, "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling," either solo on an old-sounding piano or by a larger orchestra, was interrupted by the ring of a telephone and Gardner's New Yorkese accent as he answered, "Duffy's Tavern, where the elite meet to eat. Archie the manager speakin'. Duffy ain't here — oh, hello, Duffy." Duffy, the owner, was never heard (or seen, when a film based on the show was made in 1945 or when a bid to bring the show to television was tried in 1954). But Archie always was — bantering with Duffy's man-crazy daughter, Miss Duffy (played by several actresses, beginning with Gardner's real-life first wife, Shirley Booth); with Eddie, the waiter/janitor (Eddie Green); and, especially, with Clifton Finnegan (Charlie Cantor), a likeable soul with several screws loose and a knack for falling for every other salesman's scam.

THIS EPISODE:

March 23, 1951. NBC network origination, Nostalgia Broadcasting Corporation syndication. Commercials added locally. Guest Arthur Treacher tries to give the tavern a little class. Ed Gardner, Bert Gordon, Alan Reed, Hazel Shermet. 26:35.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Confession "The James V. Madsen Case" (08-23-53)

The James V. Madsen Case (Aired August 23, 1953)


NBC 30 minutes Sunday at 9:30PM.Cast Paul Frees, James Edwards, Jester Hairston, Jay Loughlin, Jonathan Hole, Mady Norman, Don Brinkley (writer), Michael Samoge (? music), Warren Lewis (script supervisor), Homer Canfield (director), John Wald (announcer). Had a texture and sound not unlike Dragnet, indeed the influence was realized throughout the show. These were true stories of Crime and Punishment, the obvious difference that Dragnet began with the crime while Confession unfolded in reverse order, from the end. Confession was less noisy, it's theme was played on a single piano, but there was still the deadpan dialogue, the thief or killer giving his confession with an air of resignation and defeat. The criminal thus became a stream-of-consciousness narrator, with the action frequently cutting away into drama. "Names were changed to protect the legal rights of the subject"

THIS EPISODE:

August 23, 1953 NBC network. "James V. Madsen Case". Sustaining. 9:30 P. M. Transcribed statements of actual crimes. The program opening and system cue are slightly upcut. A 27 year old man reveals his crime career that lead to murder. The telephone-type recording beep heard throughout the show is very unneccessary. Paul Frees, Joel Davis, Les Tremayne, Alice Reinheart, George Pirrone, Charlotte Lawrence, Vivi Janis, Lou Rusoff (writer), Michael Samoge (? music), Warren Lewis (script supervisor), Homer Canfield (director), John Wald (announcer). 29:19.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Murder At Midnight "Death Across The Board" (1947)

Death Across The Board (1947)


The Murder at Midnight series was a thirty-minute broadcast featuring tales of the supernatural. The actors included Mercedes McCambridge and Lawson Zerbe and the show was narrated using the spooky, creepy voice of Raymond Morgan and always opened using the same gripping signature; “the witching hour, when night is darkest, our fears are the strongest, our strength at its lowest ebb… Midnight! … when graves gape open and death strikes!”. The show was produced in New York and was first heard in syndication between September 16, 1946 and September 8, 1947 on WJZ (now WABC). The show's writers included Robert Newman, Joseph Ruscoll, Max Erlich and William Norwood, and it was directed by Anton M. Leder. The host was Raymond Morgan, who delivered the memorable lines of introduction over Charles Paul's effective organ theme. CAST: Elspeth Eric, Mercedes McCambridge, Berry Kroeger, Betty Caine, Carl Frank, Barry Hopkins, Lawson Zerbe, Charlotte Holland - NARRATORS: Raymond Morgan - MUSIC: Charles Paul - PRODUCERS/DIRECTORS: Lewis G Cowan, Anton M Leader -WRITERS: Robert Newman, Joseph Ruscoll, Max Ehrlich, William Morwood.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Gunsmoke" - Chicken Smith (03-31-57)

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Gunsmoke" - Chicken Smith (Aired March 31, 1957)


The radio show first aired on April 26, 1952 and ran until June 18, 1961 on the CBS radio network. The series starred William Conrad as Marshal Matt Dillon, Howard McNear as Doc Charles Adams, Georgia Ellis as Kitty Russell, and Parley Baer as Deputy Chester Proudfoot. Doc's first name and Chester's last name were changed for the television program. Gunsmoke was notable for its critically acclaimed cast and writing, and is commonly regarded as THE true adult western and one of the finest old time radio shows. Some listeners (such as old time radio expert John Dunning) have argued that the radio version of Gunsmoke was far more realistic than the television program. Episodes were aimed at adults, and featured some of the most explicit content of the day: there were violent crimes and scalpings, massacres and opium addicts. Miss Kitty's occupation as a prostitute was made far more obvious on the radio version than on television. Many episodes ended on a down-note, and villains often got away with their crimes.

THIS EPISODE:

March 31, 1957. CBS network origination, AFRTS rebroadcast. "Chicken Smith". The wife of Chicken Smith is seen with the new owner of the Lady Gay Saloon. What will the chicken farmer do about it? The public service announcements have been deleted. William Conrad, Parley Baer, Howard McNear, Les Crutchfield (writer), Lawrence Dobkin, Virginia Christine, John Dehner, Georgia Ellis, Norman Macdonnell (producer, director), George Walsh (announcer). 19:58.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Escape "The Thirteenth Truck" (08-16-53)

The Thirteenth Truck (Aired August 16, 1953)


Escape was radio's leading anthology series of high adventure, airing on CBS from July 7, 1947 to September 25, 1954. Since the program did not have a regular sponsor like Suspense, it was subjected to frequent schedule shifts and lower production budgets, although Richfield Oil signed on as a sponsor for five months in 1950. Despite these problems, Escape enthralled many listeners during its seven-year run. The series' well-remembered opening combined Mussorgsky's Night on Bald Mountain with the introduction, intoned by Paul Frees and William Conrad: “Tired of the everyday routine? Ever dream of a life of romantic adventure? Want to get away from it all? We offer you... Escape!” Of the more than 230 Escape episodes, most have survived in good condition. Many story premises, both originals and adaptations, involved a protagonist in dire life-or-death straits, and the series featured more science fiction and supernatural tales than Suspense. Some of the memorable adaptations include Algernon Blackwood's "Confession", Ray Bradbury's oft-reprinted "Mars Is Heaven," George R. Stewart's Earth Abides, Richard Connell's "The Most Dangerous Game," F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Diamond as Big as the Ritz," John Collier's "Evening Primrose", later adapted to TV as a Stephen Sondheim musical starring Anthony Perkins. Vincent Price and Harry Bartell were heard in the chilling "Three Skeleton Key," the tale of three men trapped in an isolated lighthouse by thousands of rats. The half-hour was adapted from an Esquire short story by the French writer George Toudouze.

THIS EPISODE:

August 16, 1953. CBS network. "The Thirteenth Truck". Sustaining. An Allied expedition attempts to blow up a Nazi airfield in North Africa...by joining a Nazi truck convoy through the desert! The story has a good surprise ending! Alec Harford, Alistair Duncan, Antony Ellis (performer, writer, director), Cecil Carnes (author), Charlie Lung, Dick Beals, Douglas A. Smith (author), Gus Bayz (adaptor), Hy Averback (announcer), Jack Kruschen, Roy Rowan (announcer). 30:31.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Box 13 "House Of Darkness" (07-03-49)

House Of Darkness (Aired July 3, 1949)


Box 13 was a syndicated radio series about the escapades of newspaperman-turned-mystery novelist Dan Holiday, played by film star Alan Ladd. Created by Ladd's company, Mayfair Productions, Box 13 premiered in 1947. In New York City, it first aired December 31, 1947[1], on Mutual's New York flagship, WOR. To seek out new ideas for his fiction, Holiday ran a classified ad in the Star-Times newspaper where he formerly worked: "Adventure wanted, will go anywhere, do anything -- write Box 13, Star-Times." The stories followed Holiday's adventures when he responded to the letters sent to him by such people as a psycho killer and various victims. Sylvia Picker appeared as Holiday's scatterbrained secretary, Suzy, while Edmund MacDonald played police Lt. Kling. Supporting cast members included Betty Lou Gerson, Frank Lovejoy, Lurene Tuttle, Alan Reed, Luis Van Rooten and John Beal. Vern Carstensen, who directed Box 13 for producer Richard Sanville, was also the show's announcer. The dramas featured music by Rudy Schrager. Russell Hughes, who had previously hired Ladd as a radio actor in 1935 at a $19 weekly salary, wrote the scripts, sometimes in collaboration with Ladd. The partners in Mayfair Productions were Ladd and Bernie Joslin, who had previously run the chain of Mayfair Restaurants.

THIS EPISODE:

July 3, 1949. Program #46. Mutual network origination, Mayfair syndication. "House Of Darkness". Commercials added locally. A shot in the dark helps Dan Holiday and a blind man find adventure. Alan Ladd, Richard Sanville (director), Rudy Schrager (composer, conductor), Sam Walders (writer), Sylvia Picker, Vern Carstensen (production supervisor). 26:45.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Dr. Sixgun" - Fred Garth Jailed For Murder (10-07-54)

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Dr Sixgun" - Fred Garth Jailed For Murder (10-07-54)


Karl Weber as Dr. Ray Matson, "the gun toting frontier doctor who roamed the length and breadth of the old Indian territory, friend and phsycian to white man and Indian alike, the symbol of justice and mercy in the lawless west of the 1870s. This legendary figure was known to all as Dr. Sixgun." Bill Griffis as Pablo, the doctor's typsy sidekick, who told the stories.

THIS EPISODE:

October 7, 1954. "Fred Garth Jailed For Murder" - Program #6. NBC network origination, AFRTS rebroadcast. Fred Garth returns to town to claim his bride and is accused of murder. He refuses to defend himself at his trial. Ernest Kinoy (writer), Fred Weihe (director, transcriber), George Lefferts (writer), Karl Weber, William Griffis. 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - The Clitheroe Kid "My Great Aunt's Great" (05-21-72)

My Great Aunt's Great (Aired May 21, 1972)


The Clitheroe Kid was James Robertson Clitheroe, Jimmy Clitheroe to most, who by some strange coincidence did come from the town of that name without having to change his family name! At his full height he was 4ft 3in, and played the naughty schoolboy from 1958 to 1972. Although plausable from a distance, he was not really able to pass himself off as a youngster close up, so a TV career did not really take off too well, but at the peak of his fame the radio show was raking in about 10 million listeners, although by the end this had dropped to a tenth of that figure. Clitheroe was a very private person, and the shows became a sort of escape for him, as well as the release from the worries of his diminutive size, but despite this, his popularity increased and increased, making this series one of the longer running on the radio - a total of 17 series. It is surprising then that with such a success, and with such a long run that the shows are rarely broadcast. The humour was very obvious and probably wouldn't stand up in todays climes, but there has been one release from the BBC radio collection, so if you wanted to hear some of the shows, you can hunt this down in the shops. The series sprang from a single show broadcast on 24-4-56 as part of a Variety Playhouse series The pilot series did not have individual names for the episodes. The producer was Geoff Lawrence, with the music supplied by the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra, conducted by Alyn Ainsworth, and broadcast in the North of England only.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Suspense "Devil In The Summer House" (11-03-42)

Devil In The Summer House (Aired November 3, 1942)


Suspense was one of the premier programs of the Golden Age of Radio (aka old-time radio), and advertised itself as "radio's outstanding theater of thrills." It was heard in one form or another from 1942 through 1962. There were approximately 945 episodes broadcast during its long run, over 900 of which are extant in mostly high-quality recordings. Suspense went through several major phases, characterized by different hosts, sponsors and director/producers. There were a few rules which were followed for all but a handful of episodes: Protagonists were usually a normal person suddenly dropped into a threatening or bizarre situation. Evildoers must be punished in the end.

THIS EPISODE:

November 3, 1942. CBS network. "The Devil In The Summer House". Sustaining. A crime decades old is brought to light again by means of a recorded confession. A well written period piece, previously broadcast on the BBC. John Dickson Carr (writer), Martin Gabel, Lesley Woods, William Spier (producer), John Dietz (director), Joseph Kearns (announcer), Bernard Herrmann (composer, conductor). 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Mr. Keen Tracer Of Lost Persons "The Case Of The Man Who Invented Death" (10-06-49)

The Case Of The Man Who Invented Death (Aired October 6, 1949)


Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons was one of network radio's longest running detectives, although listening to it now would hardly explain why. This kind, elderly, boring sleuth, in company with his bumbling assistant, Mike Clancy, was on the airwaves from 1937 to 1955, logging nearly 20 years of fighting crime. The series came out of the soap opera fiction factory of Frank and Anne Hummert and encompassed most of the trite dialogue and snail plotting of daytime serials.

THIS EPISODE:

October 6, 1949. CBS network. "The Case Of The Man Who Invented Death". Sponsored by: Anacin, Kolynos Toothpaste, Heet. A modern alchemist has been electrocuted to learn his secrets. Bennett Kilpack, Frank Hummert (originator, producer), Anne Hummert (originator, producer), Lawrence Klee (dialogue), Larry Elliott (announcer). 29:49.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Lux Radio Theater "The Jazz Singer" (06-01-47)

The Jazz Singer - Starring Al Jolson (Aired June 1, 1947)


In October of 1934, "Lux Radio Theater" debuted in New York on NBC's Blue radio network. Presenting audio versions of popular Broadway plays, the show failed to garner an audience and soon ran out of material. After switching networks to CBS and moving to Hollywood, Lux found its true market. The show began featuring adaptations of popular films, performed by as many of the original stars as possible. With an endless supply of hit films scripts and an audience of more than 40 million, Lux enjoyed a prosperous run until the curtain fell in 1956. The Lux Radio Theater was the biggest dramatic program on radio, airing from October 14, 1943 through June 7, 1956. The series showcased American's top stars in adaptations of Hollywood's most popular films. William Keighly took over as regular host in the fall of 1945 after Cecil B. DeMille quit his $2000-a-week hosting duties rather than pay a one-dollar union assessment he opposed. "The Jazz Singer" based on the play by Samson Raphaelson. Fred MacKaye (director); Louis Silver (music); William Keighley (host);john Milton Kennedy (announcer). Starring Al Jolson (Jack Robin/Jake Rabinowitz); Gail Patrick (Mary); Ludwig Donath (Cantor Rabinowitz); Tamara Shayne (Mrs. Robbinowitz); Carlton Kadell (Mr. Stephens); Bill Johnstone (Yudelson); Eddie Marr (Jimmy); Bobby Ellis (Sammy); Charles Seale (doctor); June Whitley (commercials).

THIS EPISODE:

June 1, 1947. CBS network. "The Jazz Singer". Sponsored by: Lux. The story of a cantor's son choosing between his career and his God. Al Jolson, Gail Patrick, Ludwig Donath, Tamara Shayne, William Keighley (host), John Milton Kennedy (announcer), Louis Silvers (music director), Carlton KaDell, William Johnstone, Edward Marr, Charles Seel, Bobby Ellis, June Whitley, Joan Winfield (intermission guest), Samson Raphaelson (author), Fred MacKaye (director), Sanford Barnett (adaptor), Charlie Forsyth (sound effects). 61:38.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Fibber McGee & Molly "Gildersleeve Memory Course" (03-14-39)

Gildersleeve Memory Course (Aired March 14, 1939)


Fibber McGee and Molly premiered in 1935. The program struggled in the ratings until 1940, when it became a national sensation. Within three years, it was the top-rated program in America. Few radio shows were more beloved than Fibber McGee and Molly. The program’s lovable characters included Mayor LaTrivia, Doc Gamble, Mrs. Uppington, Wallace Wimple, Alice Darling, Gildersleeve, Beulah, Myrt, and the Old Timer. 79 Wistful Vista was one of America’s most famous addresses and Molly’s warning to Fibber not to open the hall closet door (and his subsequent decision to do it) created one of radio’s best remembered running gags that audiences expected each week. Jim Jordan (Fibber) was born on a farm on November 16, 1896, near Peoria, Illinois. Marian Driscoll (Molly), a coal miner’s daughter, was born in Peoria on November 15, 1898. After years of hardship and touring in obscurity on the small-time show biz circuit, they arrived in Chicago in 1924, where they eventually performed on thousands of shows and developed 145 different voices and characters. Broadcast to the nation from WMAQ/Chicago, the show entertained America until March 1956, and continued on NBC’s Monitor until 1959. Jim Jordan died on April 1, 1988. Marian Jordan died on April 7, 1961. Fibber McGee and Molly was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1989. First Broadcast date April 16, 1935. Last Broadcast date September 6, 1959.

THIS EPISODE:

March 14, 1939. "Gildersleeve Memory Course" - NBC network. Sponsored by: Johnson's Wax. Molly does not appear. Fibber takes a memory course and promptly forgets where he put a ten carat diamond! Jim Jordan, Harold Peary, Isabel Randolph, Mel Blanc, Bill Thompson, Harlow Wilcox, Billy Mills and His Orchestra. 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - The Sealed Book "Devil Island" (04-08-45)

Devil Island (Aired April 8, 1945)


The Sealed Book starred Philip Clarke as “the keeper of the book”, a croaking, cackling hermit, with knowledge of the black arts, who in each show unlocked “the great padlock” that kept “the sealed book safe from prying eyes.” There was a spook story each week with tales of secrets and mysteries of mankind through the ages. First Broadcast: March 18th 1945, Last Broadcast: September 9th 1945 - CAST: Philip Clarke - Producer/Director: Jock MacGregor - Writers: Robert A Arthur, David Kogan.

THIS EPISODE:

April 8, 1945. Program #4. Mutual network. "Devil Island". Sustaining. A young girl is stranded on island with three people who are trying to drive her crazy. David Kogan (writer), Phillip Clark (host), Robert A. Arthur (writer). 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - The Great Gildersleeve "Selling The Drug Store" (02-22-42)

Selling The Drug Store (Aired February 22, 1942)


The Great Gildersleeve (1941-1957), initially written by Leonard Lewis Levinson, [1] was one of broadcast history's earliest spin-off programs. Built around a character who had been a staple on the classic radio situation comedy Fibber McGee and Molly, The Great Gildersleeve enjoyed its greatest success in the 1940s. Actor Harold Peary played the character during its transition from the parent show into the spin-off and later in a quartet of feature films released at the height of the show's popularity. On Fibber McGee and Molly, Peary's Gildersleeve was a pompous windbag who became a consistent McGee nemesis. "You're a haa-aa-aa-aard man, McGee!" became a Gildersleeve catch phrase. The character was given several conflicting first names on Fibber McGee and Molly, and on one episode his middle name was revealed as Philharmonic. Gildy admits as much at the end of "Gildersleeve's Diary" on the Fibber McGee and Molly series (10/22/40). He soon became so popular that Kraft Foods — looking primarily to promote its Parkay margarine spread — sponsored a new series with Peary's Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve as the central, slightly softened, and slightly befuddled focus of a lively new family.

THIS EPISIODE:

February 22, 1942. "Selling The Drug Store" - NBC network. Sponsored by: raft Parkay, Kraft Dinner. Peavey's drug store up for sale. Harold Peary, Walter Tetley, Sam Moore (writer), John Whedon (writer), Ken Carpenter (announcer), Earle Ross, Lurene Tuttle, Shirley Mitchell, Lillian Randolph, Ben Alexander, Claude Sweeten (music director). 29:59

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Nightfall "Last Visit" (10-24-80)

Last Visit (Aired October 24, 1980)


Nightfall is the title of a radio drama series produced and aired by CBC Radio ( Canadian Broadcasting Corporation ) from July 1980 to June 1983. While primarily a supernatural/horror series, Nightfall featured some episodes in other genres, such as science fiction, mystery, fantasy, and human drama. One episode was even adapted from a folk song by Stan Rogers. Some of Nightfall's episodes were so terrifying that the CBC registered numerous complaints and some affiliate stations dropped it. Despite this, the series went on to become one of the most popular shows in CBC Radio history, running 100 episodes that featured a mix of original tales and adaptations of both classic and obscure short stories.

THIS EPISODE:

October 24, 1980. Program #17. CBC, Toronto origination, NPR net, WPBH-FM, Middlefield, CT. aircheck. "Last Visit". Sustaining. The story of the "Eternity Cove" hotel in Newfoundland, and the frustrations of two of its two visitors. A good horror story. The WPBH-FM rebroadcast date is November 15, 1981. Ray Will (writer), John Jessop (recording engineer), Bill Howell (producer, director), Earle Toppings (script editor), Doris Buchanan (production assistant), Bill Robinson (sound effects), Henry Ramer (host), Frank Perry, Nonnie Griffin, Gerard Parkes. 29:36.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - The Jack Benny TV Program "The Life of Jack Benny" - VIDEO (11-28-54)

The Life of Jack Benny - VIDEO (Originally Aired November 28, 1954)


Jack Benny (February 14, 1894 – December 26, 1974), born Benjamin Kubelsky was an American comedian, vaudevillian, and actor for radio, television, and film. Widely recognized as one of the leading American entertainers of the 20th century, Benny played the role of someone comically "tight" with his money, insisting on remaining 39 years old despite his actual age, and often playing the violin badly. Benny was known for his comic timing and his ability to get laughs with either a pregnant pause or a single expression, such as his signature exasperated "Well!" His radio and television programs, tremendously popular in the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s were a foundational influence on the situation comedy. Dean Martin, on the celebrity roast for Johnny Carson in November 1973, introduced Benny as "the Satchel Paige of the world of comedy." Benny left show business briefly in 1917 to join the Navy during World War I, and he often entertained the troops with his violin playing. One evening, his violin performance was booed by the troops, so with prompting from fellow sailor and actor Pat O'Brien, he ad-libbed his way out of the jam and left them laughing. He got more comedy spots in the revues and was a big hit, and earned himself a reputation as a comedian as well as a musician.

THIS EPISODE:

January 1, 1961 The sketch featuring Jack writing and casting his life story was originally performed on the episode "The Life of Jack Benny which originally aired 11/28/1954. Jack has written his fascinating life story, all typed by Rochester, and goes about the task of auditioning actors to play the parts. He casts a gorgeous young woman to play his first love, with his real first girlfriend playing the role of his mother. The tough part is finding just the right youth to play him as a child. He passes on one young man, instead hiring the pushy, demanding boy who's acting as the kid's agent. Writers Sam Perrin ,George Balzer, Hal Goldman, Al Gordon. Director James V. Kern . Music ((Music Scored and Conducted)) Mahlon Merrick Producer James V. Kern.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Sky King" - The Black Circle (1951)

Boxcars711 Overnight Western "Sky King" - The Black Circle (1951)


Sky King was a 1940s and 1950s American radio and television adventure series featuring Arizona rancher and aircraft pilot Schuyler (or Skyler) "Sky" King. The series was likely based on a true-life person, Jack Cones, the Flying Constable of Twentynine Palms during the 1930's. Although it had strong cowboy show elements, King always captured criminals and even spies and found lost hikers using his plane. King's personal plane was called the Songbird. Though he changed from one plane to another over the course of the show, the later plane was not given a number (i.e., "Songbird II"), but was simply known as Songbird. He and his niece, Penny (and sometimes Clipper, his nephew) lived on the Flying Crown Ranch, near the (fictitious) town of Grover City, Arizona. Penny and Clipper were also pilots, though still relatively inexperienced and looking to their uncle for guidance and mentoring. Penny was an accomplished air racer and rated multiengine pilot, who Sky trusted to fly the Songbird.
The radio show, based on a radio story by Roy Winsor, was the brainchild of Robert Morris Burtt and Wilfred Gibbs Moore, who also created Captain Midnight, first aired in 1946. Several actors played the part of Sky, including Earl Nightingale and John Reed King. Like many radio shows of the day there were many "radio premiums" offered to listeners. On November 2, 1947 in the episode titled "Mountain Detour" the Sky King Secret Signalscope was used. Listeners were advised to get their own for only 15 cents and the inner seal from a jar of Peter Pan Peanut Butter (produced by sponsor Derby Foods). The Signalscope included a glow-in-the-dark signaling device, whistle, magnifying glass and Sky King's private code. With the Signalscope you could also see around corners and trees! The premiums were innovative, such as the Sky King Spy-Detecto Writer, which had a "decoder" (cipher disk), magnifying glass, measuring scale, and printing mechanism in a single package slightly over 2 inches long. Other notable premiums included the Magni-Glo Writing Ring, which had a luminous element, a secret compartment, a magnifier, and a ballpoint pen all in the crownpiece of a "fits any finger" ring. The radio show ran until 1954, being aired simultaneously with the television version.

THIS EPISODE:

1951 - "The Black Circle". Commercials deleted. The Brotherhood Of Fear has been terrorizing the city of Marseilles. After a bomb goes off, an American woman is kidnapped. 20:31.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Big Town "Death Stalks The Hunter" (04-26-49)

Death Stalks The Hunter (Aired April 26, 1949)


Big Town is a radio show that aired from 1937 to 1952. Edward G. Robinson had the lead role of Steve Wilson from 1937 to 1942. Claire Trevor was Wilson's society editor sidekick Lorelei Kilbourne, with Ona Munson taking over that role in 1940. Edward J. Pawley portrayed Wilson from 1942 until 1952 when Walter Greaza was heard as Wilson in the final episodes in the radio series. When Big Town moved to television, the program was telecast live, but in 1952 the production switched to film after the move from New York City to Hollywood. The television series ran on CBS from 1950 through 1954, continuing on NBC from 1955 through 1956. Repeat episodes aired on the DuMont Network (under the title City Assignment) while Big Town was still showing first-run episodes on CBS. Reruns were also shown under the titles Heart of the City, Headline and Byline Steve Wilson.

THIS EPISODE:

April 26, 1949. NBC network origination, AFRS rebroadcast. "Death Stalks The Hunter". Wealthy playboy George Martin has been killed while hunting, but it was no accident. AFRS program name: "Mystery Playhouse." AFRS fill: "Mr. and Mrs. North" in "Frizby Klizby." Internal evidence indicates this show was broadcast during the war, however, the program has been dated April 26, 1949 (perhaps April 26, 1944?). Peter Lorre (AFRS host). 29:57.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Dick Barton Special Agent - 2 Episodes (1951)

2 Episodes (1951)


Special agent Dick Barton appeared in 711 episodes between 1946 and 1951 on the Light Program beginning at 6.45 pm on Monday, 7 October 1946. With his two best mates by his side, Jock Anderson and Snowey White, and a slew of crime-busting gadgets that would make Dick Tracy envious, Dick managed to get into (and eventually out of) some pretty tight spots, much to the delight of thousands, not to mention the stern disapproval of various "educationalists and clergymen." And all that disapproval despite the scriptwriters strict adherence to 13 codes of conduct, such as: no sex, no booze, no bad language and all violence must be limited to "clean socks on the jaw." Nevertheless, the radio show was a huge success, and the former Captain Richard Barton of the Commandos became a national hero, right up there with Churchill. In post-war Britain, the fast-paced, tongue-in-cheek adventures were exactly what the doctor ordered. At his peak, over 15 million listeners tuned in to his adventures, broadcast in the early evening, right after the news. Dick's Girlfriend (all too soon to be written out of the series for ever!) was Jean Hunter, played by Lorna Dermott, and the current villain, Manoel Garcia, was played by Brian Worth. The announcer who rapped out 'Dick Barton...Special Agent!' was Hamilton Humphries. Although Geoffrey Webb and Edward J. Mason wrote the radio scripts, Barton was actually created by BBC producer Norman Collins, who had visions of a "cloak and dagger soap opera" every evening.The producer was Neil Tuson. The first series ended on 30 May 1947, but Dick was back on 6 October in a new serial. The third, 'The JB Case', started 20 September 1948.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Hollywood Star Time "Shock" (02-03-46)

Shock (Aired February 3, 1946)


Hollywood Star (TimeThe Hollywood Star Playhouse ) , well written and performed, presented many original plays and popular Hollywood stars. Some of those who accepted roles in this great series included Jimmy Stewart, William Conrad, Deborah Kerr, Vincent Price, Harry Bartell and Betty Lou Gerson. Highlights included an episode entitled The Six Shooter and which later became it’s own series staring James Stewart. In 1952, Marilyn Monroe made her radio debut on The Hollywood Star Playhouse. This 30 minute anthology program was heard over three different networks during its three seasons. Many leading Hollywood stars appeared before the microphones for this programs original scripts. Marilyn Monroe made her radio debut on the 08/31/52 broadcast. Several programs were intended to become new series. On 04/13/52, the broadcast # 99 of The Six Shooter w/James Stewart did indeed become a new NBC series The Six Shooter in 1953, while the broadcast of 05/18/52 #104 Safari w/Ray Milland failed to make it. There was a title change to this series. During the third network change to NBC the series picked up the sponsorship of the American Bakers and the series was called Baker’s Theater Of Stars. CBS FRIGIDAIRE/GENERAL MOTORS Sundays 2:30 - 3:00pm HOST: Herbert Marshall, Larry Keating, Gary Brecker SINGER: Larry Stuart ANNOUNCER: Wendell Niles DIRECTOR: Robert L. Redd PRODUCER: Tom McAvity till 12-21-46 then Jack Johnstone MUSIC: Alfred Newman till 12-21-46 then Johnny Green.

THIS EPISODE:

February 3, 1946. CBS network. "Shock". Sponsored by: Frigidaire. A good story about a murdering doctor who keeps the only witness to his crime in a coma. Vincent Price, Lynn Bari. 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - The Adventures Of Frank Race "The Silent Tongue" (12-04-49)

The Silent Tongue (Aired December 4, 1949)


The Adventures of Frank Race, by Bruce Ells Productions, was first heard in May of 1949. The main character, Frank Race, was an attorney before World War II. As a result of his activities in the war, when it was over, he traded his law books for a career with the OSS. There, "Adventure" became his business. Tom Collins played the role of Frank Race initially, immediately following his stint as Chandu, The Magician. The lead role was taken over later by Paul Dubof.

THIS EPISODE:

December 4, 1949. Program #32. Broadcasters Program Syndicate syndication. "The Adventure Of The Silent Tongue". Commercials added locally. A killer en route to the Chair asks Race to take a pair of baby shoes to his wife. A clue to $2 million bucks? Paul Dubov, Tony Barrett, Buckley Angel (writer, director), Joel Murcott (writer, director), Bruce Eells (producer), Ivan Ditmars (orgainist), Art Gilmore (announcer). 1/2 hour.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Adventures In Research - ep173 (05-16-46) and ep183 (07-30-46)

"George Westinghouse" (05-16-46) and "The King Of Clocks" (07-30-46)



A wonderfully informative old time radio series can be found in Adventures In Research. With tales that are not only wonderfully dramatic, but at the same time extremely interesting and entertaining. Adventures In Research offers the listener accounts in American scientific research history. You will be enthralled, as will your children. Best of all, in regards to providing a great educational tool for children, the episodes are made for their attention span, and run approximately fifteen minutes. Hear about the development of the parachute; History of 1st Regular Radio Broadcast; learn about the George Westinghouse; be amazed at The First American Patent; the horrible Dread Scourge - Typhus; be in awe of The Man Who Found A Continent; and so much more wonderful history. The early shows were discussions with Paul Shannon asking the questions, Dr. Phillips Thomas (research physicist for Westinghouse, specializing in electronics) answering the questions. The later programs were written by Dr. Thomas, but were dramatizations instead of the Q and A fomat. The programs themselves present a fascinating look at the state of scientific knowledge during the war and the immediate post-war years.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Casey Crime Photographer "The Laughing Killer" (05-08-47)

The Laughing Killer (Aired May 8. 1947)


Originally appearing in the pages of Black Mask, under the watchful eyes of then-editor Joseph Shaw, Flashgun Casey was the originally fast-talking crime photographer, a big, hot-tempered Boston Mick with a gift for gab and a nose for trouble. No "artiste", Casey kept a bottle of hooch and a .38 in his desk drawer, and boasted of being able to put a "slug where he aimed" and having "two big fists he knew how to use". He appeared in several short stories in the pulps and several novels. Casey, whose first name was never revealed, was the major crime photographer at the fictional Morning Express newspaper. With the help of reporter Ann Williams, he tracked down criminals and solved numerous crimes on this popular mystery-adventure series. Often a picture snapped at a crime scene led Casey to play detective. Jackson Beck and Bernard Lenrow were heard as Captian Logan and John Gibson played Ethelbert. Sponsors included Anchor-Hocking glass, Toni home permanet, Toni Creme Shampoo and Philip Morris cigarettes.

THIS EPISODE:

May 8, 1947. CBS network. "The Laughing Killer". Sponsored by: Anchor Hocking Glass. A strange caliber gun is used to frame a man just out of prison. Tony Marvin (announcer), Lawson Zerbe, Staats Cotsworth, Jan Miner, Herman Chittison (pianist), John Gibson, Alonzo Deen Cole (writer), John Dietz (director), Archie Bleyer (composer), George Harmon Coxe (creator). 30:11.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711

Boxcars711 Old Time Radio Pod - Boston Blackie "Jim Williams Inheritance Case" (01-29-46)

Jim Williams Inheritance Case (Aired January 29, 1946)


The Boston Blackie radio series, also starring Morris, began June 23, 1944, on NBC as a summer replacement for The Amos 'n' Andy Show. Sponsored by Rinso, the series continued until September 15 of that year. Unlike the concurrent films, Blackie had a steady romantic interest in the radio show: Lesley Woods appeared as Blackie's girlfriend Mary Wesley. Harlow Wilcox was the show's announcer. On April 11, 1945, Richard Kollmar took over the title role in a radio series syndicated by Frederic W. Ziv to Mutual and other network outlets. Over 200 episodes of this series were produced between 1944 and October 25, 1950. Other sponsors included Lifebuoy Soap, Champagne Velvet beer, and R&H beer. While investigating mysteries, Blackie invaribly encountered harebrained Police Inspector Farraday (Maurice Tarplin) and always solved the mystery to Farraday's amazement. Initially, friction surfaced in the relationship between Blackie and Farraday, but as the series continued, Farraday recognized Blackie's talents and requested assistance. Blackie dated Mary Wesley (Jan Miner), and for the first half of the series, his best pal Shorty was always on hand. The humorless Farraday was on the receiving end of Blackie's bad puns and word play. Kent Taylor starred in the half-hour TV series, The Adventures of Boston Blackie.

THIS EPISODE:

January 29, 1946. "Jim Williams Inheritance Case" - Program #42. ABC network origination, Ziv syndication. Commercials added locally. Inspector Faraday is accused of beating the witness at the murder trial of the killer of Mrs. Williams. Richard Kollmar. 27:30.

FOR THIS EPISODE AND HUNDREDS MORE, FOLLOW THIS LINK TO BOXCARS711