The Handcart Race artwork
Ranger Bill

The Handcart Race

  • S2E29
  • 28:52
  • November 9th 2022

Have you ever stopped for a railroad crossing when the gates are down? You're waiting for the train to show up, and then all of a sudden, along comes a little hand cart, put-putting away? It's rather a let down to what was expected, isn't it! But, nevertheless, the little vehicle has saved many hours when the section hands want to travel short distances. In our story today, the rangers and Bill get involved with one of these contraptions - and they come in mighty handy when you need one!

Ranger Bill

Ranger Bill was a Christian radio adventure serial, and aimed at the younger generation. This turned out to be one of the most successful radio broadcasts, and with an amazing longevity of over twelve years. The very first fifteen minute episode was aired on October 2, 1950, but this later changed to a half hour episode, beginning May 14, 1954 and running right through until 1962.

Hear the exciting introduction again for the first time in many years, you'll get goosebumps when all of the memories of being a young kid come flooding back! Here's how it went...

"Ranger Bill, Warrior of the Woodland, struggling against extreme odds, traveling dangerous trails, showing rare courage in the face of disaster, in the air, on horseback, or in a screaming squad car. Ranger Bill, his mind alert, a ready smile, unswerving, loyal to his mission. And all this in exchange for the satisfaction and pride of a job well done."

Although it does stress positive Christian values throughout, I don't feel that these are particularly 'in-your-face' - the adventure stories were a real thrill for young people.

Starring Miron Canaday, the series follows the adventures of Bill Jefferson, the chief forest ranger of Knotty Pine in the Rocky Mountains. Bill and his friends were tasked with many different adventures, crimes to solve, cattle rustlers, prisoners and all manner of animals and beasts, from cats and dogs to snakes, elephants and an abominable snow man!

Cast: Miron Canaday Director: Charles Christensen, Jim Grant Writer: Charles Erkhart, John Rowan Sound Effects:John McCombe

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