Product ID: LSOTWe
Control Number: 7498002
Luke Slaughter of Tombstone 16 Episodes
Luke Slaughter of Tombstone was a short-lived but exceptionally well-crafted Western radio series that aired in the late 1950s, known for its strong writing, gritty realism, and mature storytelling. The show followed the adventures of Luke Slaughter, a Civil War cavalryman turned Arizona cattleman, as he built his ranch near Tombstone and dealt with outlaws, rustlers, land disputes, and personal betrayals. With a tough, no-nonsense hero at its center, the program blended traditional Western action with thoughtful character development and sharp dialogue.
Though it aired for only a single season, Luke Slaughter of Tombstone is remembered as one of the finest adult Western dramas of the golden age of radio.
The Stars
Sam Buffington starred as Luke Slaughter, delivering a powerful and grounded performance that made the character both believable and compelling. Slaughter was portrayed as a principled man of action, equally capable with his fists or a six-gun, but also governed by a personal code of honor shaped by his years in the military and life on the frontier.
Vic Perrin co-starred as Sheriff Cotton, Slaughter’s friend and occasional sidekick, offering comic relief and local insight. The supporting cast was filled out by experienced radio actors who brought rich texture to each episode’s guest roles.
Key Dates
• Luke Slaughter of Tombstone premiered on CBS Radio on February 23, 1958, and ran until June 15, 1958.
• The series aired Sunday afternoons and was produced by Norman Macdonnell, the acclaimed producer/director behind Gunsmoke and Fort Laramie.
• A total of 16 episodes were broadcast, making it one of radio’s most respected short-run Westerns.
Other Information
Episodes followed Luke Slaughter as he tried to establish and protect his cattle business while confronting the lawlessness and unpredictability of frontier life. Themes included greed, justice, revenge, loyalty, and survival — explored through smart, action-packed plots that never relied on clichés or caricatures.
The writing, largely handled by top-tier radio dramatists such as John Meston (co-creator of Gunsmoke), was rich in character detail and moral tension. Dialogue was spare but evocative, and the stories often ended with bittersweet or morally ambiguous conclusions, reflecting the harsh realities of life in the West.
The show's production featured high-quality sound design, authentic Western ambiance, and subtle use of music, creating a vivid sense of place. Slaughter’s hard-edged narration often framed the stories, reinforcing the character’s internal conflicts and frontier wisdom.
Despite its short lifespan, Luke Slaughter of Tombstone is widely praised by OTR collectors and historians for its excellence in writing, acting, and production. It represents the last great wave of adult radio Westerns before the decline of the medium in the television era.
Today, Luke Slaughter of Tombstone remains a hidden gem — a rugged, intelligently written series that captures the spirit of the West with grit, dignity, and style.
This collection comes preloaded on a USB stick, allowing you to easily transfer all episodes to the device of your choice. Enjoy seamless playback a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern convenience.
Suggested Retail Price: $12.49
Mice Price: $9.69
Length: 12.5
Width: 16
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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