User Reviews

(IMO) "Tales Of Wells Fargo" (1957-1962) was an above average TV Western with competent actors, plenty of action and believable situations.

I really liked Dale Robertson as the no-nonsense special agent, Jim Hardie.

"The General" was first aired on television December 16, 1957.

Wells Fargo has assigned Jim Hardie to guard General Phil Sheridan, who is travelling to Fort Laramie for a peace conference with the Sioux. The problem is extremely polarizing, with many demanding that the Army wipe out the Sioux while others want to make peace with them and leave their territory. In addition, Sheridan's dislike of all Native Americans is well known, and some believe he's the wrong man for the assignment. As a result both sides are dead set against Sheridan making it to the meeting.

I'll admit, I really like this one. ToWF would include historical figures from time to time, and although the history is dubious these episodes are typically entertaining, and this one is no exception. The dialogue is brisk, with a good deal of banter between Jim Hardie and Gen. Sheridan. Not to mention that the episode packs a considerable amount of action into its short running time. There's also a bit of intrigue and some small amount of humor, as with most ToWF episodes. And, there are a couple of twists at the end and they're good ones.

Paul Fix appeared as the irascible General Philip Sheridan. It was cool how he actually looked a lot like the real Gen. Sheridan with the handlebar mustache, as can be seen in many different pictures of Sheridan himself. Fix was one of John Wayne's regular players, but also had a lot of TV appearances, including the second pilot of Star Trek: TOS as Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mark Piper. I always enjoy seeing him.

Jane Nigh played Ann Petrie, a fictional singer that Hardie described as very famous throughout the west. She appeared during the 40s-50s in small roles, none of which would extend her notoriety. As a result she's completely unknown today.

Whit Bissel appeared as Jennings, Wells Fargo station manager. He was a very busy character actor, appearing in roles in pretty much every genre in the film industry. I've seen him countless times, but I remember his appearance in the Star Trek: TOS episode, The Trouble With Tribbles best.

The General is definitely good one, watch and enjoy!