Ep 20. The Dora Gray Story

The Dora Gray Story is the 20th episode of the first season of Wagon Train. It originally aired on February 6, 1958. The episode follows the wagon train as it encounters a young woman named Dora Gray, who is traveling alone to California. Dora is initially mistrustful of the wagon train, but ultimately forms a close bond with many of the travelers. The episode deals with themes of loneliness, trust, and the importance of community.

The episode starts with the wagon train encountering Dora Gray, a young woman traveling alone to California. She is wary of the wagon train and hesitant to join the group, but ultimately agrees to travel with them after being offered protection and companionship. As they travel, Dora keeps to herself and refuses to form close bonds with the other travelers. She is clearly a woman with secrets and an unknown past.

As the wagon train makes camp, Dora sneaks away and is followed by one of the men, Flint, who becomes concerned for her safety. Flint discovers that Dora is meeting with a mysterious man in the wilderness, and becomes convinced that he is up to no good. He confides in the wagon master, Chris Hale, who is initially skeptical but ultimately agrees to investigate.

Meanwhile, the other members of the wagon train begin to reach out to Dora and offer support and companionship. The women of the group take her under their wing and offer her friendship, while some of the men begin to court her, including Charlie Wooster, a lovable but bumbling character who provides comic relief throughout the episode.

As Chris and Flint investigate Dora's mysterious meetings, they uncover the truth about her past. It is revealed that she was once married to a violent man who abused her, and she is now on the run from him. The man she has been meeting with is a friend who is helping her get to California and start a new life.

The final act of the episode sees the wagon train facing danger as Dora's ex-husband catches up with them. Dora must make a decision about whether to continue running or face her past head-on. As the wagon train rallies around her and offers their support, Dora finds the strength to confront her ex-husband and stand up to him once and for all.

Overall, The Dora Gray Story is a compelling episode of Wagon Train that deals with serious issues such as abuse, loneliness, and the need for community. While the episode is somewhat formulaic in its structure, it is elevated by strong performances from the cast and a genuinely emotional climax. Fans of classic Western television will likely find much to enjoy in this episode of Wagon Train.