Ep 14. The Jeremy Dow Story

The Jeremy Dow Story is an episode from season 4 of the western television series Wagon Train. This episode centers around the character of Jeremy Dow, a young man who joins the wagon train with his grandmother, Martha. Jeremy is a shy and introverted young man who struggles to fit in with the other passengers on the wagon train, particularly the women who frequently try to engage him in conversation.

As the wagon train makes its way across the countryside, Jeremy and his grandmother begin to form a bond with two other passengers: a young couple named Joel and Carol who are expecting their first child. The four of them spend time together, and Jeremy begins to open up to them, revealing that he has had a troubled past and has struggled with anxiety and depression since he was a young boy.

Despite the support of his new friends, Jeremy continues to struggle with his inner demons, and when the wagon train is attacked by a group of bandits, he freezes up and is unable to defend himself or his fellow passengers. In the aftermath of the attack, Jeremy is wracked with guilt and self-doubt, convinced that he is a coward and that he will never be able to find his place in the world.

But as the journey continues, Jeremy begins to undergo a transformation. With the help of his friends and the other passengers on the wagon train, he begins to regain his confidence and self-esteem. He starts practicing his shooting and becomes more outgoing and assertive, even standing up to a bully who has been taunting him for weeks.

As the wagon train nears its destination, Jeremy's grandmother falls ill and he is forced to confront his fears once again. But this time, he rises to the occasion, working tirelessly to care for his grandmother and keep her comfortable. In the end, he is able to say goodbye to her with dignity and grace, and he emerges from the experience stronger and more confident than ever before.

The Jeremy Dow Story is a moving and inspiring episode that explores themes of self-doubt, personal growth, and the power of friendship. It is an excellent example of the high-quality storytelling and compelling character development that made Wagon Train such a beloved series during its run in the 1950s and 1960s.