Death Valley Days Episode Rating Graph

New schoolteacher arrives, keeps unruly students in line with her sweet demeanor and sharpshooting skills. One vindictive female student and some town busybodies try to get her run out of town.

The tale of a society belle of Washington, D.C. who is transplanted to Carson City, Nevada, then known as "Little Washington".

In 1850's Arizona, Charles Poston fills many positions including the ability to perform weddings. After his arrival, Father McCabe declares all marriages invalid. A trial is conducted to settle things.

Sawbuck would give his left arm for a good set of teeth. When he saves a dentist's life on the trail they use some of Sawbuck's gold to make a set. But the two bandits that nearly killed the dentist have other plans for the gold.

A town's pie supply is threatened when the loveless lady baker decides to leave.

Amos can't marry his girl Maggie because he's poor. When his new friend Yucca offers to trade some of his land for a black bull, Amos has to figure out how to get his hands on one.

Charley and Stokes are partners in a productive gold mine and are successful holding off any claim jumpers. The main problem is Charley drinking too much and when the beautiful Wilhelma arrives the situation worsens. It is Charley who devises a solution.

Lumberjack Will is attracted to Trudy, the daughter of his boss Mr. Bell. But Trudy thinks highly of herself and after Will spanks her at a box social he expects to lose his job plus his best friend's Danny whose advice he took.

Ben Cotterman, wife Rachel and brother Ab have bought an abandoned, isolated fort to live in. Thier lives are put in jeopardy by renegade Indians led by disaffected white man Clay.

A tomboy changes her ways when she meets the handsome constable of a mining town.

The Orchards get the contract to deliver silver in the isolated town of Hillsboro. After her husband is waylaid and beaten by bandits, Sadie takes over as the stage driver.

Wilson and Winters have had many unproductive years mining when a young stranger arrives looking for a hideout. They lie to a sheriff about his whereabouts, than Redmond uncovers a lucrative gold strike. The race is on to file a claim.

After a settler's son is stolen during an Apache raid, an Army doctor leads a small band on a near impossible mission to rescue a group of wounded soldiers and the child.

Billy Ralston is a fast talking banker who cannot cover his customer's assets. He comes up with a scheme involving the mint to solve his problem yet remain out of jail.

The Paiute tribe have their own traditions concerning justice but when there is a killing, the white settlers want the guilty punished by their system.

Colonel Hunter, a former Confederate officer returns to Texas to call on Kathy McLennan, the wife of a dead soldier who had been killed while serving under him during the Civil War. He discovers that the widow and other ranchers in the valley had been cheated by a wealthy cattle baron who gave them legally unclaimable IOUs in when purchasing their stock. Hunter tries to reason with the cattle baron, but when this fails devises a tactic to recover the money stolen from them.

Stephen Austin travels to the Mexican City to purchase land in their territory of Texas to purchase land for American settlers. His traveling companion is Valdez who wonders why Austin risks so much for strangers.

Peaceful Jack Slade changes into a vengeful gunman after he's attacked by a thief.

When his older son develops into a bully and a killer because of his ability with a gun, his father is afraid that his younger son is developing a bad case of hero-worship for the tough.

When five men desert the Union Army, they are at the mercy of General Avery, who favors shooting them.

When Claypool swindles McSween out of his mine, storekeeper Hobart has an idea for retribution. Trained as a lawyer he traps Claypool into owing him the mine's deed but not before physical violence occurs.

Johnny Carter is wounded while committing a robbery and takes refuge in a mission school. He is nursed back to health by Sister Mary who learns his identity. She urges him to turn himself in which turns his partner Buckner against him.

Bethel Leslie plays America's first female judge, who loses her life savings and her husband in a fight against corruption.

A sailor, a barmaid and a newspaperman join forces to clean up a lawless city.

Edwin Booth arrives in Downieville to do a Shakespearean show 6 months after his brother assassinated Lincoln. Town tough Rogan and his cronies try to prevent the performance. It's up to Jeb Hayes to show his son to stand up for what's right.

Russian Grand Duke Alexis is touring the West and the government assigns Buffalo Bill as his guide. The frontiersman objects but ends up bonding with the royal. An encounter with hostile Indians cements the friendship.

Sam Kee, ostracized because he's Chinese, finds refuge at a fort after saving a soldier's life. He makes himself useful and befriends Lt. Burke who needs help after Apaches repeatedly steal the payroll. Sam is able to come to the aid of his benefactors.

Steve Warren is in California to install the first telephone system but lands in midst of a water dispute. The farming Cannon family are generous but at odds with ranchers like Phillips. Warren must end the feud to proceed.

The end of the Mexican American War leads to disputes between land owning families like the Ortegas and newer settlers. When Carlos Ortega is killed a lie leads to Brewster's imminent hanging.

Trick Shot Artist comes to town to take a woman away from the local Gunsmith, her fiance.

Bank manager Dan Crosby is accused of a gold theft and is almost lynched. But his girl Mary breaks him out from jail and Dan is able to get a confession from the real culprit by using the proximity of arsenic water to a thirsty man.

Edward Beale is in charge of an unusual experiment of the US Army before the Civil War. Camels are imported to travel the vast distances of the desert southwest while the men must learn of animal's behavior and capabilities.

The story of Bret Harte and his early time in 1850's California after moving there from the east. He became a stagecoach guard, newspaper editor which almost got him lynched, then a schoolteacher before finding fame as a western writer.

Nina pledges to wait for Terry when he leaves to make his fortune. But after not hearing from him Nina marries John. Terry, although friendly with saloon girl Vera, is surprised when a sick Nina arrives leading him to make a huge sacrifice.

Jim Hardwicke's act of self defense becomes a murder charge because of an ambitious politician Pike. An effort to make Columbia, California the new capital involves 11,000 signatures and lawyer Barrett uses that to his advantage.

The mining town of Columbia, California has burned twice so Philo Clark leads an effort to purchase the latest fire engine. Philo dubs it Little Papeete but his girlfriend Sue becomes jealous of the men's devotion to the machine.

Solomon is a newspaper man who sold his paper 10 years earlier and has been drunk ever since.

Cal and Sam share a mining claim, but Sam is a better writer than a laborer. A set of circumstances prevent the friends from keeping control of their potential millions.

A prospector who continuously loses bets and is subject to ridicule from a barroom crowd; thinks he has discovered salvation by betting on a fast Indian that he spots running near his mine. After winning a few bets and paying an opposing runner to throw a race; he loses again when the opposing runner uses some of his bribe money to pay the fast Indian to throw the race. However, the barroom crowd has a good laugh at his expense and he wins back the friendship that he lost while he was winning.

While serving as scouts for Fremont's expedition, Carson and Godey come across a man who has lost everything in an Indian raid. They face a choice between helping him or moving on with their jobs.

As the Donner Party attempts to cross the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Reed family is banished after an altercation leads to death. They endure heavy snow and dwindling food but daughter Virginia shows courage beyond her years.

Among the first American settlers to California, Olive and Vicki organize a school when the men leave to fight Mexico. Without supplies the women improvise with charcoal and other daily items near the Santa Clara mission.

A drought in Pueblo Indian country has bypassed a branch headed by Miguel due to a painting of St. Joseph. The Laguna tribe headed by Felipe borrows it but then refuses to return it after receiving rain, causing conflict.

Cavalry man Larry Brooks is escorting a group through peaceful Indian territory. His quick use of a rifle ends several lives and puts everyone in peril due to lack of water. His attraction to the widowed Mary brings him to a heroic decision.

A group of wagons leave a wagon train to head due west from Salt Lake City. Soon they find themselves trapped in a hot arid desert with their food and water diminishing rapidly.

A gold camp cook is threatened with hanging after it's discovered he has been skimming nuggets from the miners. His assistant thinks he can save his life by bringing the cook's sister from Tucson.

Tombstone sheriff Ray Ritter and wife Joanna have a bright future but then the he tosses shady gambler Fields out of area. He returns with a deed to half the town and Ritter finds he must protect the scoundrel from vigilant justice.

Red Eagle, with his wife Little Fawn, compete for an army freight contract against Manning. But Manning uses underhanded means to win so Little Fawn finds a clever solution after arriving at the fort.

John Clum is given the task of turning a small group of Apache men into a force that can aid the US Calvary. Not only must he prove their worth but deal with the prejudice of both the army and the local Anglo community who try to sabotage him.

A sheriff schemes to win an interest in California's wine industry.

Maso and Okei, tea growers in Gold Hills, encounter both friendship and racism from the locals. A worsening drought has some looking for a scapegoat and local bully Dan leads a mob to drive their Japanese neighbors out.

Newspaperman L. Frank Baum is having a hard time making his paper a success. He spends most of his time telling stories to the local kids, full of scarecrows, lions, and little girls carried away to magical lands by tornadoes.

Caleb relies on the advice and support of his upstanding friend Andrew but has a blind spot concerning his son Johnny. Eventually Johnny goes to far and Caleb tracks him down to make him faces the consequences of his actions.

A peace seeking Indian scout aids pioneers besieged by Indian renegades.

After a trip to town, two down and out miners find gold nuggets mixed with beans they bought. Convinced that finding origin of the beans will make them wealthy, they head across the Arizona desert encountering difficulties along the way.

Amy Caldwell serves as the "doctor" in the remote mountain community over the objections of her husband John. He is also concerned about the threats of an Indian warrior who wants to take over from the old chief.

A gunfighter comes to town to challenge the "Avenging Angel". A gunman that is invincible. That bullets can't harm.

While their family is traveling out west three children are orphaned. They decide to continue on to the town of Whiskey Flats and seek their fortune by panning for gold.

An old thief outwits lawmen by returning to his rundown shack, which straddles the U.S. and Republic of Texas border.

Florrie is tired of empty promises and bad behavior that she sees as a saloon girl. When a Death Valley ranch foreman Jimmy treats her well and offers to marry her, she accepts. But after learning he misrepresented his situation, she debates whether to stay with him.

Lucia Darling arrives in territorial Montana to start a school. After being robbed of her books she is determined to continue despite being accused of being naive. She quickly learns the ways of the West to achieve her goals.

A powerful Texas rancher wants revenge for the murder of his son.

George Parker is unwilling to follow the rules of either his father or his church in 1880's Utah. His friend Michael encourages his rebellious ways and suggests he even change his name. George decides to start his new life as Butch Cassidy.

Cora and Ella visit a remote Utah fort, not knowing it is under the threat of an Indian attack. When the tribe's leader Black Wing becomes desperately ill, the women compassionately try to nurse him back to health, perhaps endangering everyone's lives.

Jack and Johnny left behind their outlaw ways and have a successful silver claim. Senator Stewart uses underhanded methods to obtain it and the men vow revenge. But Johnny's new wife Delia objects.

Cliff and Frank, best friends recently out of the army, finds themselves at odds over their future. They use a card game to determine a very important decision about marriage.

Nellie runs a restaurant and lends a helping hand to those in need. But gold fever takes hold when she learns that nuggets just lay on the ground in a remote area of Mexico. More importantly she finds out why the locals ignore the easy wealth.

Brit and Hannah Bailey fend off Indians and outlaws in 1820's Texas to hold onto their farm. But when Stephen F. Austin arrives to claim the land as part of a government grant, Brit vows to fight whatever the cost.

John Parker has been raised by the Comanches since he was a boy and wants to remain with his Indian family. Stranded in the desert after being injured, a young Mexican woman rescues him and he starts to wonder about his choice.

A successful newspaperman turns town drunk. His old boss must get him clean and sober for an important guest.

Hendry Brown takes the unenviable job of sheriff in a lawless town. But old habits die hard, and Brown is faced with a moral dilemma when a friend from his outlaw past has an idea for easy money.

Frank Ball arrives in town announcing he has a horse with the most amazing ability. When he starts selling tickets, a local woman Anne is determined to expose him as a flim flam man.

A sheriff in Tucson, Arizona territory, pursues bank robbers and $62,000 in cash, who hide it in Colossal Cave.

A sheriff has problems with his young deputy.

Tiger Lil leaves her dance hall days behind her by altering her dress and demeanor. Frank Johnson starts looking for her to profess his love, not believing she could change that much.

A preacher's fiancé is not who he thinks she is.

Sandy King, the youngest member of an outlaw gang, is wounded. The gang captures army lieutenant Jason Beal, but they agree to free him on condition that he take King for treatment by army doctors, without arrest. When the healed King returns to his gang, he provides them information for another robbery: stealing a group of horses from the army.

The Ellsworth ranch hires mild mannered Sam who wishes to be a preacher. Fellow employee Web, a bully, targets him and forces a showdown. The love of the boss's daughter helps Sam take a stand.

Sage Madison's husband leaves his Dakota territory home to haul freight and hopes his wife is all right by herself. Two highwaymen show up and force Sage to cook and wait on them until she turns the tables on them.

A spectacular wrinkle develops around an aging marshal's refusal to wear glasses.

Irishman Tommy is convinced he has found a leprechaun that will help him find gold in his mine. Ben claims he is just an ordinary man but he seems to have some magical abilities.

Stony comes across a dying criminal and learns the possible location of some hidden loot. Using the last of his savings to buy an abandoned mine, he has trouble locating the money until he schemes to get others to do the work.

Pike has a terrible temper and his fiance Angela breaks off the engagement after too many altercations with the townspeople. He heads off with his partner to trap, vowing to stay calm to win her back but an encounter with Indians changes things.

"The Baron of Arizona," James Reavis, files a claim against the government.

Two young ladies move to Colorado to prove their land claim, but the local land manager intends to own it himself. Two brothers are enlisted to hinder the women, but find their charms irresistible.

Wagonmaster Lassen faces an unruly mob when he tries a new route to California in the 1840s and is overheard saying he may be lost.

The story of how the Winchester repeating rifle helped to bring law and order to a new north Idaho town. An epilogue featuring host Robert Taylor and Lester Shadduck, the mayor of Winchester, Idaho, was shot on location in 1967.

Ten years after the events described in "Out of the Valley of Death", Asa Bennett is persuaded to join an expedition to find the Lost Gunsight Mine, a legendary vein of silver in the heart of Death Valley.

Jesse declares the middle of Main Street is the place to find gold and is seemingly correct after the mine is successful. But his backers in town become increasingly suspicious when their questions go unanswered.

A wagon train takes the wrong cutoff and end up in Death Valley running short of food and water. Two of the stronger men leave to find supplies but those left behind start to give up hope of their return.

Aaron brings his new bride Rosie to Death Valley where his place is isolated and rundown. Aaron continues a futile look for gold but as Rosie is about to leave him, he discovers another mineral to make them wealthy.

Two Americans on their way to Santa Fe are captured by Mexican troops and held prisoner until an Indian woman comes to their aid.

Gustaf Olaffson eagerly awaits the arrival of his future bride Britta from Sweden. Heading to Gustaf's sod house, Britta becomes disillusioned about her future. Visiting with Dan and Mary Brown, other Dakota homesteaders, help her overcome her fears.

While her husband Zeb looks for gold, Cynthia lives in isolation in Death Valley. Although he has promised they will eventually leave, Cynthia begins to give up hope and her health fails. Zeb hopes a new dress will help.

Count Peter is a charming rascal in Old California who expects to marry the beautiful heiress of a wealthy Don. But first he must serve a brief stint in a jail he designed and clear up a misunderstanding that might get him killed.

A prospector and his partner try to con a banker.

An inexperienced young man hears about a planned ambush on the sheriff and vows to help.

Jack agrees to buy French Frank's oyster boat but only if he spares Scratch's life. French, a violent man, vows vengeance when he loses his girl Mamie to Jack. Jack must outwit and diminish French as a hooligan.

Sister Blandina comes to the aid of a wounded robbery in the rough frontier town of Trinidad when no one else will. As she works to comfort him she learns he is a friend of the notorious Billy the Kid.

At a gathering of trappers Kit Carson takes on a belligerent man, who has insulted the Indians, in a series of contests.

Jim Murphy is about to be sentenced when Texas Ranger Captain Peak offers him a deal in exchange for his freedom. He must help capture bandit Sam Bass dead or alive but fellow gang member Barnes is suspicious of his return.

Sacagawea leads the Lewis and Clark expedition.

John Hail honors his wife's dying wish and returns to make a solitary journey to place a headstone on her remote grave.

The Chumash Indians, enslaved by Spanish soldiers in early day California, rebel against their captors. Their leader Paconio realizes they are trapped in the mission and talks with the Padre to find a solution.

Chicken Bill (Dub Taylor) owns a silver mine that isn't paying out. He salts his mine to get his competition to pay off his old debit and fund his future.

Shanghai Kelly works a side job filling ships with shanghaied sailors. He counts on long sea voyages to insure his "clients" don't come back after him. His fiancé sets him up to retire early.

A man of God living in the desert tries to convince a hardened killer that he could truly change in his heart, no matter his past crimes.

After the territory of New Mexico joins the United States, a young woman decides to challenge the peonage system in court when her father's debt forces her into servitude.

Prospector Jim Otis is taken hostage by robbers after he stumbles onto their loot.

Warren takes an unreasonable dislike to his stepmother after returning to his father's ranch. An attack by rogue Indians leads Warren to have a change of heart.

When a freight line's near impregnable strongbox is stolen by road agents, the proprietor's girlfriend finds her loyalties tested when she discovers her wounded brother is the safecracker for the gang.

Major Bell, an early settler of Los Angeles, comes to the defense of a man who he believes was framed for murder.

Dr. William Davis is asked by his current partner Jenny to replace her with young Tad in his magic act. Everything is fine until they need to perform for some renegade Indians.

When a group of five men are ambushed by the Comanche, only two escape. But one other of the five men is still alive, and his dying sister's psychic bond with another woman may be his only chance for survival.

A former cowhand now prefers to paint the life of the cowboy, which he feels is vanishing. While visiting his childhood home he must decide if using violence to protect that way of life in the face of inevitable progress is justified.

An ex-convict is hired by Animas City, Colorado's mayor to be their marshal because no one else can stand up to the outlaws that rob every gold shipment that tries to leave town. Some of the gold miners don't trust their new peace officer believing he's in cahoots with the gangs.

Ed Schieffelin has spent seven long years hoping to strike a bonanza but it always ends in failure. About to quit, he discovers what he believes to be a sure thing and convinces his brother to give up everything and join him.

After a run of bad luck at faro Doc Holliday is in need of working capital. When he meets an investment banker from the east he decides to take advantage of the banker's greed to fund his next game.

After Calamity Jane joins Wild Bill Hicock's show, her uncouth behavior causes Bill to think he made a mistake. When Bill tells her she should act like a lady he soon realizes he made a bigger mistake.

A Gypsy woman has a gift that allows her to see a person's future from a deck of cards. When one man decides to take advantage of her gift he doesn't count on what the cards say about his own future.

Billy the Kid sets out to avenge the death of a friend.

Tom does the mining and Rupert the cooking in a partnership, where any profits are split equally. But Rupert becomes suspicious of Tom's behavior, especially concerning neighbor Mrs. Daigle and interest in her farm.

A young Roy Bean rides into 1850's San Diego to visit his brother. Bad blood quickly develops between him and a local with Roy arrested for wounding the man. But is it justice for him to spend ten years in prison?

Sheriff McBain leaves home to arrest notorious gunslinger Sam Bolt for murder when he would prefer to see the arrival of his first grandchild. He encounters Pony, an associate of Bolt's, whose life he once saved and gains a needed ally.

A local blowhard is causing problems with his tall tales so the town fathers decide to make use of the situation. They create the persona of Deadwood Dick and it works so well that what was once fiction starts to seem like fact.

A gambler (DeForest Kelley) tries to win the heart of a society belle.

Joseph Ridges has crafted an organ and is charged with bringing it safely to Salt Lake City. It's weight sinks the wagon into the sand, delaying the entire train. Wagonmaster Luke Winner will jettison the organ unless Ridges provides a solution.

A country chicken rancher, bamboozled by a fast-talking insurance adjuster after his coop burns down, goes to court in his effort to get a fair settlement.

This episode re-creates the record-breaking run of the "Scott Special," a passenger train of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway commissioned by Walter E. Scott in 1905. Santa Fe #1010, one of the original steam locomotives used on the special, was reconditioned especially for filming.

A small garrison, led by Lt. Gillespie, is besieged by the Mexican army during the war with United States. He sends John Brown to make a daring ride to Monterey to bring reinforcements, finding difficulties and gunfire along the way

Robert Louis Stevenson is exploring a deserted mine with his son when they discover a Wells Fargo strongbox.

The good folks of town look down on Diamond Babe because of her saloon background. But a deadly epidemic hits the area and the citizens learn a lesson as Babe's care is responsible for saving lives.

A young, educated and talented Bill Stewart tries his hand in California as a gold miner, but quickly realizes his future lies as a lawyer. As his legal practice flourishes he has a whirlwind courtship with a beautiful woman.

A young, educated and talented Bill Stewart tries his hand in California as a gold miner, but quickly realizes his future lies as a lawyer. As his legal practice flourishes he has a whirlwind courtship with a beautiful woman.

Lotta's early years are in California gold mining camps where her mother runs a boarding house and her father a failed prospector. Briefly under the tutelage of Lola Montez, Lotta rises to be a famous singer and actress.

A young miner is afflicted with claustrophobia, causing his associates to call him "yaller".

After discovering the man she married was never divorced, a pregnant woman flees to her sister's home where she gives birth to child. When the local judge announces that a "12-pound nugget" could be found at the Tibbett shack, excitement races through the mining camp and the new mother finds a man more worthy of her love.

Prospector Jimmy Dayton falls hard for a dance hall girl Flory. He buys a toupee and gets new teeth but it turns out she doesn't care how he looks she's only interested in his money.

John Thompson is determined that Placerville and other mining camps get mail during the snowy winters. John develops skis and heroically gets news through but his lack of pay postpones his marriage to Agnes.

Phelps, a railroad executive, needs Andy Prentice's help with Chief Black Hawk in getting permission for the train to go through Indian territory. His daughter Evelyn causes trouble for Andy and he must fight the brave warrior.

Cowpoke Curt Morrison and pal Josh locate a spring on Indian land soon to be opened to homesteaders. Disqualified themselves they tell Bonnie but a land speculator beats her to it illegally. Curt makes sure it works out for the Kentucky lass.

Susie is blind and bitter because of her blindness. Steve meets her and helps her to find a purpose in life via a job. Susie witnesses a stage robbery and her heightened senses play a key role in solving the crime.

Lucretia Phinney and her children endure years of poverty and humiliation because her husband Herb prefers daydreaming and prospecting to steady work. Eventually, she devises an ironic solution to their situation.

Sam Swift is in love with Marjorie Delafield and intends to marry her. But her father Marcus doesn't approve and will only give his consent if Sam can make a fortune in three days.

Gordon McLean and Ginny Cluett meet then fall in love even though they belong to feuding families. They intend to marry until Gordon makes a deathbed promise to his father starting the animosity in the next generation.

Wells Fargo is plagued by a series of stagecoach robberies by Black Bart who taunts their agents with his poetry. A retired teacher Bolton offers the detectives advice while he courts his landlady Miss Webb.

Nevada's road to statehood becomes entwined in a trial concerning mining claims and Civil War allegiances. Lawyers Corey and Stewart must prove that the judge and jury have been bribed to rid the courts of corruption.

Two partner prospectors, two Charlies, sell out to wealthy Spencer Gates and their lives take different paths. Big Charlie marries Consuelo Gates and becomes rich while his friend is a storekeeper just barely getting by.

The life of Cherokee tribesman Sequoia from his birth to his later years. His time spent on developing the Cherokee written language is portrayed in detail and it's importance to it's people.

The tumultuous life of Lola Montez, born Eliza Gilbert, is portrayed. The dancer and adventuress becomes the toast of two continents, brings down Bavaria's King, owns a bear and goes through several fortunes.

A young tenderfoot goes to Death Valley to work at his fiancée's borax mine. He is assigned to work as a swamper on the huge mule train that ships the product out of the desert to a train station ten days away. On the return trip, a disgruntled former employee steals the mine's payroll and shoots the lead driver, forcing the tenderfoot to prove his mettle by taking the train back to safety and tracking down the thief to retrieve the stolen money.

Innocent Bud Payson arrives in wild mining town of Limbo and is hired to collect back taxes by the sheriff. Bud enlists Curly Bill, the area's toughest man to help, not realizing a robbery is planned when he has gathered all the money.

Elvira Riggs does the hard work on their mining claim while her husband Henry takes it easy. When they sell their stake for $70,000 Henry takes off with a shady sea captain, squandering the hard earned money.

Though women are scarce in the mining camp plain Aggie lacks any suitors. But George and Russ bribe their friend Tiny with worthless mine stock to marry her. Tiny confesses to Aggie, then manager Mr. Loomis delivers a surprise.

Tom Powell is elected wagon train captain on way to the California. His refusal to travel on the Sabbath leads Frank to lead a breakaway group, taking Tom's girl Mary Ann with him. The two groups have very different incidents on the trail.

When assayer Murphy evaluations vary greatly the miners decide to play a prank to prove a point. They break up a grindstone to take to Murph but are stunned when it contains silver but where it came from is a mystery.

Eilley Orrum believes she can see the future and gives advice based on the ability. She tells Sandy Bowers where to mine his fortune, marrying him and spending their wealth freely. But she doesn't foresee that the money might run out.

The outlaw career of California's notorious Joaquin Murieta is portrayed. It's seen through the experience of Ann Dix whose husband is murdered and her child disappears, leading her to spend years searching for her daughter.

Reno, Nevada's naming begins on the battlefields of Mexico where officer Reno serves with Steve and Red. While they head west Reno returns to West Point. He becomes a Civil War hero and his friends intend to honor him.

A wealthy land owning family sees their fortune diminished as the propery is taken by newer arrivals to the territory. The inability to find the original grant lasts decades until a cake is made for dessert.

Two miners, Slack and Arnold, arrive in San Francisco but are cautious about showing the diamonds they've unearthed. They need investors to find more and greed gets the better of men who should be wiser about elaborate swindles.

War hero Clem is teased by his fellow miners because of his appearance. When Mona arrives from Kansas Clem is smitten and makes sure her life goes well. She appreciates his kindness but dates attractive Bruce until a life changing event.

Counterfeiter James Reeves evades the sheriff by joining a Mormon wagon train. His cynical ways conflict with the faith of the others including Judith who he's attracted to. A plague of locusts and a resulting miracle changes Jim.

The women want culture in Wildcat so pretty Deborah is sent to collect money for a piano. But no one can play it after it arrives yet at night one can hear the music. Deborah discovers Chuck knows how but it bitter about having just one arm.

Peter Jeffries arrives in Sacramento to revive his family's fortune but learns Phineas Colby has monopolized financially the town. While courting the kind Laura Peter decides ice, not gold is the key to his future wealth.

Alex Grant is arrested for a fifteen year old murder when he returns to a mining camp after a long absence. Experienced prosecutor Peck faces off against new lawyer Greg Lewis who relies on the odd Harry Gander to clear his client.

A stagecoach robbery involving gold bars occurs but a novice sheriff has his doubts regarding the eyewitness accounts. A matter of simple math and weight horses can carry help him catch the criminals.

Abe Curry is determined to do anything to make Carson City a success and later helps make it the state capital. But his habit of betting on everything puts the well being of his family and future at risk.

Two Arizona newspaper men have doubts when a Spanish gentleman claims to own millions of acres in the territory. His papers date to colonial times appearing authentic but Tom is determined to prove fraud.

Mining town Aurora, Nevada is not a decent place to live proper Abby Marshall believes. After her son becomes sick and husband John is suddenly broke Abby is returning home until Major Sherman brings her bit of Massachusetts.

Norman Berry and his partner Bill Snyder find a rich vein of ore but Bill abandons him to die. He is nursed back to health by Lupin who puts a curse on Bill for his betrayal. Snyder's efforts to quickly sell his claim leads to unexpected deaths.

Stubby Weeks is teased and overlooked because of his height, losing out to Dutch for Merinda's affections. He gravitates to an archeologist who helps him with confidence and helps him show Merinda bravery comes in all sizes.

Evelyn Nelson is tired of life as wife of superintendent Harry, bored with living in isolated mining camps. But when Burke, an escaped killer holds them hostage, she and her husband must outwit him if they are to survive.

Sam's job at an Arizona territory fort is to find promising horses. He pleads for an older one, named Two Bits, which is rewarded as the animal is beyond smart. After an Indian attack Sam knows lives depend on the abilities of Two Bits.

Bill sells his gold claim to a business syndicate for $100,000. Now loaded, he invites his long-lost relatives to town for an elaborate family reunion. All the arriving guests claim to be Bottles, but are really grifters hoping to get their hands on some of his fortune. The phonies learn a lesson from Bill who treats all of them as warmly as if they were legitimate family.

Itinerant preacher John Brownell arrives in Mojave to preach but finds the townspeople resistant. He does find organist Ellie sympathetic but his one convert Gideon is accused of murder. John is literally willing to fight for his soul.

Mac Gordon is a greenhorn from Boston and is quickly spotted by conmen Sykes and Daley. They sell him a mining claim rigged to look profitable. Wife Norma is disappointed he lost their money but Mac is determined to make good for her.

Mining camp lawyer Barnaby Taylor is asked to run for Congress and he standouts with his 4 foot beard. His fiance Frances wants him clean shaven but his advisers tell him his whiskers will get him elected. Barnaby has a dilemma.

Joshua Norton was a prosperous businessman who after losing his fortune became an eccentric, declaring himself Emperor of Mexico. His fellow San Franciscans treated his humorous behavior with kindness and dignity until his death.

Bill courts Grace who's unaware he's a professional gambler. After he shoots Sidewinder in self defense she ends their relationship. Bill leaves town but returns mysteriously with young Butch and Grace is charmed after learning what Bill did.

The conflict between the established Hispanic families and the recently arrived settlers from the United States comes to an head. General Vallejo seeks accommodation with the troop headed by Ezekiel in establishing a republic.

The last days of notorious outlaw Billy the Kid is told from the viewpoint of Pat Garrett. Vowing to take on Billy after elected sheriff, Pat first dramatically captures Billy who escapes forcing an ultimate showdown.

Maria is approaching her 17th birthday at her father's successful ranch in 1845 California. But his sudden death leaves her unprepared and everything seems to go wrong. After her wedding to Pedro a dream reveals a surprising fortune.

Silas, an expert lumberjack, attracts the attention of pretty Florence. Si despairs when she moves as he can't read or write so friend Vic steps up and writes her sweet letters. Trouble is Flo can't read or write either so Mrs. Perrin plays matchmaker.

Three good friends Andy, Cliff and Barney work for the telegraph company in the desert mining region. The arrival of pretty dancer Rose in Rhyolite has the men competing for her affection. A flash flood changes their fortunes.

Not having luck in the California gold fields, Alex Todd discovers there's money to be made delivering the mail and starts a subscription mail service taking letters to the gold camps for miners starving for news from home.

Asa Mercer heads East right after the Civil War to recruit brides for the many bachelors in the Northwest. He meets his match in Annie who wants to teach and is tired of Mercer's Puritan ways. The long ship journey bring complications.

Andrew Clayton, a down and out miner, finds himself on trial for robbery plus murder. As every witness identifies him, Andrew recounts his encounter with Red Haskell, his near double and a bad deal that could cost him his life.

A Boston native, Philip Adams is a big booster of Washington state. While courting Janice Peabody he dreams of taking a graft of the historic Washington elm and placing it in the university out west. His interest comes between Phil and his girl.

Tombstone has a reputation as a rugged mining town when newlywed Janet Gee arrives. Homesick for Scotland she befriends rough women plus looks out for a homeless Indian boy. A rosebush from her mother lifts her spirits.

Dr. Edward Wilson attempts to curb an epidemic in a Paiute village.

Mary Granger earns an engineering degree but finds it difficult to break into what's considered a male profession. She heads west hoping to tind it easier but encounters the same opposition until she proves herself.

MacFarlane has a tough job guarding valuable shipments in the railroad. And when he stops a robbery by the Claytons he makes mortal enemies. He must become increasingly clever as he risks his life stopping train holdups.

Elias Baldwin heads to Santa Ana, California to makes his fortune. He takes risky chances on a number of business deals but it works out. But money leaves him unfulfilled until he meets the lovely Jennie Dexter.

After gold is discovered in California, Lt. Beale endeavors to be the first to make it back east with a sample of the precious mineral. His travels involve escaping Mexican bandits.

Charlie Bates is a watchman in the mining town of Bodie and believes he has second sight. When a stagecoach robbery happens to miles away he's able to recount specific details. Many years later wife Edith provides the solution.

The days of Mark Twain as a newspaper editor in the Comstock mining area are portrayed. Highlighted are his reluctant involvement in a duel and how his friends help him out, setting him out on his fame as a humorist plus world renowned writer.

Brothers John and Dave Chapman share a faithful dog Colonel but when Dave leave Calico to work in Bismarck, their pet decides to travel between the towns. Soon he's used to transport mail increasing the jealousy of Dave's girl Nancy.

During the administration of president Zachary Taylor, the United States levied a tax on the mines in California. Outraged by this tax, and feeling it amounts to taxation without representation, miners in the small town of Rough and Ready, California, led by a prominent businessman named Bundage, decide to secede from the union and create the Republic of Rough and Ready with Bundage as president. The fact that 'absolute power corrupts absolutely' quickly becomes evident as Bundage becomes a dictator.

The beginnings of the Tiburcio Vasquez's entry into a life of crime is told beginning with his dislike of the Americanos. His prison escape and various exploits eventually lead to a bitter end in 1870's California.

Frank Grouard, a mixed race man, finds himself between the Indian life and the white man's culture. He eventually becomes a highly regarded scout for the army, sent on the toughest of assignments.

Kentuckian William Coleman heads to California in 1849 to try his luck during the gold rush. But he soon discovers his talents lie elsewhere and makes several fortunes farming and mining borax. He also cleans up San Francisco as a vigilante.

The mining town of Camptonville, California is home to millwright Lester Pelton in the 1870's. With the aid of the Groves family sewing machine Lester devises a way to use hydraulic energy to revolutionize mining.

Billy Benson believes in the easy life and it doesn't involve marrying Annie Parker who would like that to happen. He relocates to Greenwater where as a bad typesetter he accidentally insults the good citizens. Annie must rescue him from his troubles.

Mining has disappeared in 1900 Nevada but men like Jim Butler keep looking. He locates a major find in Tonopah, making his partners Johnny, Tasker and himself rich. But keeping claim jumpers at bay may need expert help like Wyatt Earp.

The Mexican ranchers of early 19th century California are set upon by notorious pirate Bouchard. The Ortega family fights back, capturing a shanghaied sailor Joe Chapman. A hard worker, he soon falls in love with the lovely Lupe Ortega.

Colonel Campbell and his associate Blocker found the XIT ranch, one of the largest in Texas. But they are confounded by cattle rustlers like Johnny Santos and their inability to prove he's changing brands. A trial helps resolve the issue.

Tildy and Porphyry Smith struggle living in the Mojave Desert. After years they sell a claim and Por heads to LA to bring the 1st car to the region. But he's been sold a hearse, leaving his neighbors laughing until they need help during a flood.

Nancy Gable, a expert shooter, travels with husband Frank as part of Buffalo Bill's western show. She decides to set the record for a cross country on horseback and her ordeals during the 180 days are exciting but also dangerous.

Charlie Parkhurst escapes a poorhouse, apprentices to a livery and becomes a horse expert. Hired by Wells Fargo in California, Charlie is one their most trusted drivers for decades. But a surprising secret is revealed in death.

Bob Stevenson meets Fanny Osbourne, mother of two, while convalescing in France. They grow closer, marry and move to California for his health. Stories he created to entertain the children will be classics as written by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Deputy sheriff Wall Kennedy is better known for spinning tales then solving crimes. When John is arrested for a knife murder at a party his girl Holly stands by him. Wall, with only one eye, claims special insight into finding the actual killer.

Colorado sheep rancher Ed Pratt sends his son Loren to market with a herd. Most die overnight in a meadow and the father blames the boy. Loren runs away, meeting wanted robber Haley. Toxic plant news plus an arrest assist improves matters.

Kit Carson heads to the yearly meet up of trappers and friendly Indians in 1825. It's a time to visit with friends plus tangle with enemies like the Frenchman Pierre. Kit meets a lovely Indian woman Waa-Nibe and considers making her his wife.

The tumultuous political career of Sam Houston is recalled after marrying a younger Margaret Lea. Serving as leader of an independent Texas plus as governor and senator after it became a state, he relied heavily on his wife's support.

Teamsters Lem and Brad, make what is usually an uneventful time hauling borax. But one trip they must contend with a crazed cook Chang, a Indian burning and Lem gambling away some of the mules. Brad just wants to wed Enid.

When crossing the country in a wagon train on the way to Oregon disaster strikes the Segar family. The parents die, leaving their orphaned children to carry on under the protection of the wagon master.

The Babb children, living in Texas, are captured by the Comanches while playing shortly after the Civil War. It is up to Mary Jane with the aid of an older Indian woman to help them escape.

British sailor Edward falls in love with Manuela Cortez against her father's wishes. Banished from colonial California he becomes a pearl diver with the help of native Kiori. A ferocious storm changes the fortunes of all.

Herb is bringing his bride Henrietta to his ranch but realizes housekeeper Minnie is less then competent. He gets his friends to take Minnie back to her tribe but then his stepdaughter falls ill. Herb must get her to come back in time.

Patrick O'Dell works for a greedy mine owner Fred Gerlock who pushes his men to the limit. A strike is called but the optimistic Pat believes if he has his lucky shirt all will be well. But Fred only believes in money which leads to an unfortunate end.

Liz saves Scrubby's life in a mine accident and that leads to a partnership. They hit it big but then Liz succumbs to the charms of a con artist Andrew who's only after her money. It's up to Scrubby to then save his friend Liz.

Rose had found contentment as the wife of blacksmith Gil Calvin. The unexpected arrival of men from her criminal past threaten her happiness through blackmail so the Calvins must figure out a way to thwart the outlaws.

The San Antonio and San Diego mail route is considered dangerous but driver Silas makes it seem easy. But his good relations with the Indians and his mules is threatened by the Waltons, a desperate couple he encounters on the trail.

Tom Horn and his gang high jack a stagecoach when the passengers are entirely female. Most are future brides headed to Laramie but Tom bonds with dance hall owner Della. They must outwit several groups to successfully reach their destination.

New school teacher Ruth arrives in town and is instantly attracted to Brad Forrester. After she learning he's a gambler and boxing promoter she gives him the cold shoulder. But missing money points to Ruth and she needs his help.

Quong Kee arrives in wild Tombstone in 1881 and quickly establishes himself as an excellent cook and businessman. More important he is everyone's friend, aiding future senator Art's romance with Ann by befriending his proper Bostonian mother.

Jim Bridger returns from an army assignment learning his wife has died and son Felix angry about his absences. Jim finds his eyesight is fading and his farm deep in debt. He takes one more scouting expedition to make things right.

A player piano in a saloon plays a particular melody that evokes a somewhat strange reaction from a woman and gives a clue to a man's disappearance.

After the army is issued new 50 caliber rifles they are chronically short of ammunition during Indian troubles. The fort's Major suspects Pierson of supplying the warriors who seem fully armed. But the captain is able to solve the mystery.

Shopkeeper Isaacs is asked to hide government gold as Mexico struggles for independence. But French troops ransack his store causing him and wife Ruth flee. But when the patriots return they suspect the merchant has stolen the fortune.

A US Navy officer is assigned to chart the Missouri River, but he runs into some unexpected hostility from a bull-headed army officer.

After hard luck miner Stoddard hits town newspaperman Mel Hardin decides to spread a rumor that he hit big. The merchants shower him with goods but when they learn they were fooled they want revenge. But luck is with Stoddard in the end.

Innocent John Studebaker arrives in Hangtown hoping to make his fortune as a miner. But con men take advantage and leave him broke. His talent for making wheelbarrows gives him enough for a grubstake until fate intervenes and he begins a different future.

Mystery shrouds a stage robbery when the alleged culprit is killed before he can be questioned.

The western town of Volcano is drawn into the Civil War when confederate sympathizers plan to take over the community. But the Reverend Coleman learns of their intentions and must thwart them with the help of his son.

Sylvester Pattie and his son travel to Spanish held California to trap but the superstitious governor has them arrested. While in jail they are befriended by Carlota. The Pattie's knowledge of medicine helps the entire community during an epidemic.

Ma's circus has fallen on hard times but she plans reviving the show's fortune rest on Juliette and her equestrian act. The situation begins to improve thanks to Holland's efforts but Forbes and Laura undermine the circus at every turn.

The Rosetti family and their fellow Italian immigrants look forward to new freedoms in the American West. But an organized crime group from the old country intends on extorting them unless they make a stand.

James Savage is more comfortable living rough among his Indian friends and sharing the best of the Anglo world. But when Trask threatens to ruin the peace in the Yosemite region Savage must expose his duplicitous ways.

Judge Clinton orders a mine closed when he is persuaded that the conditions are unsafe. The local newspaper editor disagrees in print, angering the judge who retaliates.

Every cattle drive needs a lead steer and Goodnight's Old Blue is the best. But some cowboys make him disappear to collect a reward then the Wilkes family find him and make him a pet. But a charge of rustling endangers a life.

Justin Gates is in time to save a boy deathly ill from a medicine show. Gates tries to shut it down but meets opposition from Professor Peacock and his strongman Samson. Gates must physically fight to stop Peacock's fraudulent claims.

Greg has only a once great horse Squire from his Virginia inheritance. He and new friend Dawson head west to make their fortune. But conman Murdock takes their money. It's up to to one more race from Squire to get it back.

An injured Bill Marshall stumbles into John Warner's store, is nursed to health and treated as one of the family. But Bill is working with rogue Indians to drive the Warners from San Jose valley. John must fight against the betrayal.

Buff McCloud runs a Nevada town with an iron fist dispatching opposition ruthlessly. After bringing in dance hall girl Fay he's jealous of her friendship with Randall who stands up to Buff. Randall uses psychology and faith to challenge the tyrant.

A Mexican official must decide between his fellow caballeros and his obligations to the U.S. Government during the annexation of California.

A man goes too far promoting a phony religious philosophy based on the novel "The Gates Ajar", and must admit the truth if he is to save his friend and benefactor from a lynch mob.

Charlie and Phoebe Stoner are having hard times because of his drinking. Major Bullock arrives from the East willing to grubstake Charlie to learn his mining expertise. When valuable items disappear Bullock suspects Charlie but there's a simpler solution.

Dr. Tom Bell stays out west after the Mexican American War but his belief in himself is gone. When a patient of his dies unexpectedly his medical practice is ruined and he thinks his only choice is to join with criminal elements.

After an army skirmish with hostile Indians prisoners arrive at the fort including an ill girl. Mrs. Easton nurses her to health and she adopts the Anglo ways but leaves after falling in love with Tom. She returns only to perform a heroic act.

Two competing teams race to complete a cross country telegraph line, aiding the Union cause. Also at stake is a bonus so when sabotage takes place suspicions grow. But Hudson learns it's Confederate sympathizers at work.

The son of an Indian chief accused of the murder of a fellow tribesman faces trial.

The MacArthur family arrive at Ft. Selden their new post in frontier Arizona. In the midst of hostile Apache actions the young Douglas falls under the watchful eye of Norkul who risks everything to protect the future commanding general.

During a drunken evening in town, a miner gives a pretty saloon-singer half-interest in his apparently worthless claim, only to learn that the surrounding property contains a vein of valuable ore.

Mike Ward arrives in Carson City and immediately clashes with newspaper owner Lauri Frick. He establishes a rival paper both working to improve things in frontier Nevada. What Lauri doesn't realize is who her secret contributor is.