Product ID: MKTOLPDE
Control Number: 7790481
Mr Keen Tracer of Lost Persons 60 Episodes
Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons was one of the most enduring and beloved crime dramas in old time radio history, offering a softer, more persistent brand of justice than the era's hard boiled private eyes. Based on a 1906 novel by Robert W. Chambers, the show followed Mr. Keen, a kindly but razor sharp investigator who specialized in finding missing persons and solving the murders that often crossed his path. Despite his gentle, elderly demeanor, Keen possessed a brilliant analytical mind that allowed him to unravel complex mysteries that left the police at a standstill.
Moralistic, sentimental, and meticulously paced, Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons was known for its consistent format and its focus on the human stories behind those who had vanished from society.
The Stars
The series starred Bennett Kilpack as the legendary Mr. Keen. Kilpack’s soft spoken, grandfatherly delivery made the character uniquely approachable, contrasting with the tough talking detectives of the 1940s. He portrayed Keen as a man of great dignity and patience, whose "tracers" were conducted with a quiet, persistent authority.
He was joined by Arthur Hughes (and later Jim Kelly ) as his loyal, slightly more excitable assistant, Mike Clancy. Mike provided the physical backup and the occasional comic relief, often acting as the "audience surrogate" by marveling at Keen’s brilliant deductions. The chemistry between the two made the show feel like a cozy, yet high stakes, partnership.
Key Dates
Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons premiered on October 12, 1937 , on the NBC Blue Network.
The series enjoyed an incredible 18 year run , making it one of the longest running detective programs in radio history before concluding in 1955.
Episodes were broadcast in a 30 minute format for much of its run, though it originated as a 15 minute serial.
Produced by the prolific "soap opera" team of Frank and Anne Hummert , the show maintained a high level of dramatic tension that appealed to both daytime and evening audiences.
Other Information
The show was famous for its distinctive opening , which featured the haunting melody of "Someday I'll Find You" played on a somber organ. This musical theme immediately set a mood of longing and mystery, perfectly suiting a program dedicated to finding the lost.
Unlike many shows that focused strictly on the criminal element, Mr. Keen often delved into melodrama and family secrets . Many cases began with a distraught relative seeking a missing loved one, only for Keen to discover a web of blackmail, hidden identities, or cold blooded murder. This blend of "soap opera" emotion and "whodunit" logic helped the show attract one of the most loyal fanbases in broadcasting.
Today, Mr. Keen, Tracer of Lost Persons is remembered as a cornerstone of the Golden Age of Radio. It stands as a testament to the idea that a detective didn't need a trench coat or a snub nosed revolver to be a hero sometimes, a kind voice and a keen mind were the most effective tools of all.
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: $14.99
Mice Price: $11.59
Length: 15
Width: 52
Weight: 0.0500 pounds
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