
Marshal Matt Dillon (then-newcomer James Arness) tries to prevent lawlessness from overtaking Dodge City, Kan. Helping to keep him grounded are saloon proprietor Miss Kitty Russell and Doc Adams. The television series grew out of the long-running radio serial of the same name, although for a short time they were both on the airwaves.
Two recaptured Army deserters frame Festus in an attempted murder of their sergeant.
Kitty and a young gunsmith from the East are abducted from a stagecoach on the road to Dodge City.
Festus, left in charge of Matt's office, gets into trouble with two hunters.
A widow (Kathleen Nolan) falls in love with Matt's wounded prisoner at a remote way station.