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Gunsmoke: Old West Stories

Thoroughbreds: A Case of Mistaken Guilt and Stolen Bloodlines

Posted June 22, 2025 · 27 min

About this episode

Originally Aired: September 17, 1955 In Gunsmoke #179, “Thoroughbreds,” Marshal Matt Dillon and Chester encounter a well-dressed stranger named Jack Portis traveling with a pair of immaculate horses—thoroughbreds bearing a distinctive wineglass brand. Suspicious of the man’s aloof manner, Dillon investigates, only to learn that two men from Oklahoma have followed Portis to Dodge, claiming he stole the horses and murdered their uncle. Before the law can intervene, Portis is gunned down in what appears to be a fair fight. But days later, a letter arrives suggesting a heartbreaking truth: Portis may have been the rightful owner after all. With guilt, regret, and the scent of justice hanging heavy, Dillon must reckon with a tragic misjudgment. Cast: William Conrad (Matt Dillon), Parley Baer (Chester), Georgia Ellis (Kitty), Howard McNear (Doc), John Dehner, Lawrence Dobkin, Harry Bartell Tags: Gunsmoke, oldtimeradio, western, horse theft, mistaken identity, DodgeCity, wineglassbrand, JackPortis, MattDillon, JohnMeston, 1955radio, frontierjustice, lawandorder, radiohistory, classicwestern, thoroughbreds, gunfight, revenge, OklahomaTrail

From Gunsmoke: Old West Stories by OTR.FM Network. Visit the show’s website.

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