Ep 22. Skid Row

In Gunsmoke season 2 episode 22, titled "Skid Row," the residents of Dodge City are dealing with the arrival of a new group of people who have settled in the outskirts of town. These newcomers are struggling to make a living and are often seen begging for money on the streets, leading the locals to call their area "Skid Row."

The episode follows Matt Dillon, the town sheriff, as he tries to maintain order while also showing compassion towards the struggling newcomers. He soon learns that many of them have been forced into poverty due to circumstances beyond their control, such as illness or job loss. Matt begins to work with a local businessman to provide the newcomers with jobs and a chance at a better life.

Meanwhile, a local gang of outlaws sees the newcomers as an easy target and begin to prey on them, stealing what little money and possessions they have. Matt and his deputies work tirelessly to track down the outlaws and bring them to justice while also trying to keep the peace between the newcomers and the rest of the town.

As tensions continue to rise, Matt finds himself torn between his duties as a lawman and his desire to help those in need. The episode explores themes of compassion, justice, and the struggle for survival in a harsh and unforgiving world.

Overall, "Skid Row" is a compelling episode that showcases the complex moral dilemmas faced by lawmen in the Wild West era. It offers a nuanced portrayal of poverty and hardship and highlights the importance of empathy and cooperation in overcoming adversity. With strong performances from the cast and plenty of action and suspense, it's a standout installment in an already-great series.