A Christian radio adventure serial, it was produced by the Moody Broadcasting Network, 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.
Although it's supposedly aimed at juveniles, I actually remember the opening of the show. I sure wasn't a kid in the late 50s and early 60s though, so I can only attribute my memories down to me being a big kid... Hee hee! I'm sure when any of you young 'uns 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. I've been really enjoying listening to them - as does one of our friends of RUSC, Bartley T, who added this comment to the series when we added the first show:-
"I have been waiting for this! Thanks so much. I am 53 and listened to this growing up. Bartley T"
Starring Miron Canaday (who worked for Moody Broadcasting Network for over 34 years!), 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!
There are 214 episodes of Ranger Bill extant, and Joy and I will be adding these to RUSC each week.