The Hidden Gem: Tombstone Territory - A Forgotten Western Gem

Tombstone Territory, a Western TV series from 1957-1960, remains one of the most underrated and unknown gems in television history. Despite its 30-minute format and 91 episodes spanning three seasons, it never gained the recognition it deserved during a time when the Western genre dominated the airwaves. This article delves into the history and untold story of this fascinating show.

Origins and Concept

Tombstone Territory was created with an intriguing backstory, drawn from real-life events and individuals. The series follows the adventures of Harris Claibourne (played by Richard Eastham), a newspaper editor in Tombstone, Arizona, and Sheriff Clay Hollister (Pat Conway), a lawman protecting the town. The concept was initially conceived with the editor at the heart of the show, based on a real person and newspaper. However, ABC network insisted on reassigning this focus to Sheriff Hollister, likely to appeal to the action-oriented audience. The network also mandated the addition of 'Territory' to the title, giving it a more appealing Western feel.

Starring Cast and Production

Pat Conway, who played Sheriff Clay Hollister, carries a rich history. He was the grandson of Francis X. Bushman, a renowned actor known for his role in the silent film Ben-Hur. Conway grew up in the wild west, spending his childhood on a ranch where he learned to ride horses and rope with ease. Richard Eastham, playing editor Harris Claibourne, was a completely different story. He was unfamiliar with horses and had to learn the skill, starting his acting career as a Broadway singer in the musical South Pacific.

Production Challenges and Successes

Tombstone Territory’s journey was fraught with challenges. After its initial season, the show faced cancellation, only to be saved by a midseason replacement. The second season also lost its sponsor, leaving behind 51 episodes. Yet, Ziv Productions, the company behind the series, took an unprecedented and bold step: they financed the production of the remaining episodes, making the series profitable through syndication. This move not only breathed new life into the show but also secured its place in television history.

Writing and Guest Stars

Sam Peckinpah, a renowned director, wrote an episode while guest-star Myron Healy appeared as Johnny Ringo, a well-known Western figure. The stories were fast-paced and often based on real newspaper articles, adding authenticity and intrigue to the series. One notable episode featured a guest appearance from Myron Healy as Johnny Ringo, contributing to the show's quality and historical depth.

Legacy and Aftermath

Pat Conway's career took a hit after Tombstone Territory. Known for being an alcoholic and a lone-wolf, his on-screen persona rubbed No-8 wire wrong with some stuntmen. However, his passion for self-directed action scenes led to disciplinary actions from the professionals. Despite being a guest star on several shows, he never secured notable roles thereafter. He passed away in 1981 at the age of 50.

Richard Eastham continued his acting career but is perhaps most remembered for his role as the boss of Diana Prince in the TV show starring Lynda Carter. Eastham died in 2005 at the ripe old age of 89, leaving a legacy of versatility and adaptability in his acting career.

For those interested in exploring this hidden gem, the entire series can be found on YouTube, making it accessible for a modern audience to discover and appreciate this lesser-known Western classic.

Theme Song:

Here’s the theme from Tombstone Territory, a fitting musical intro that encapsulates the action and adventure of the series.

While Tombstone Territory may have been undervalued and mostly unknown, its rich history and compelling storytelling make it a worthy addition to the annals of Western television. As a hidden gem, it offers a unique blend of authenticity, action, and intrigue, making it a must-watch for fans of Westerns and undiscovered classics.