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Audio from Internet Archive · Logs from the Old Time Radio Researchers. Goldie does not own the recordings.

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← All The Black Museum episodes

This is Orson Welles speaking from London. The Black Museum. Here in the grim stone structure on the Thames which houses Scotland Yard is a warehouse of homicide. Where everyday objects, objects like a sugar bowl, an ashtray, a portable radio, all are touched by murder. There's a hammer. A hammer, that's a familiar object. Everybody's used one at some time to drive a tack, a poor nail, or loosen a window sash, or what have you. Nearly everybody has at one time or another tak…

Transcript

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Synopsis

In the gripping episode titled The Hammer (a Claw Hammer) from The Black Museum, Orson Welles introduces listeners to a chilling narrative centered around a common tool turned deadly weapon. The story begins with James Knight, a young handyman who arrives at the home of Mrs. Golden, claiming to offer his services for minor repairs. His charming demeanor masks a more sinister agenda, as he aims to exploit her trust for financial gain.

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Detective Desk

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In March 1944, four individuals face trial at the Old Bailey for violating the Witchcraft Act of 1735, capturing public attention amid the ongoing war. The case revolves around the controversial practices of spiritualists Edward and Mrs. Homer, who host seances featuring the medium Helen Duncan.

Ep 55 · Sunday, February 24, 1957 · 24:24

Dragnet

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Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith investigate a series of burglaries in Los Angeles, focusing on a thief who only steals petty cash and leaves behind milk bottles. They suspect a juvenile may be involved as they follow the clues.

Ep 365 · Tuesday, October 30, 1956 · 25:45

21st Precinct

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Captain Keel and his team at the 21st Precinct tackle a complex case involving a burglar who claims a corrupt cop let him go free after a robbery. As they investigate, the stakes rise when the truth about the officer's actions comes into question.

Ep 145 · Thursday, July 12, 1956 · 27:11

Broadway Is My Beat

The Joey Herbie and Beebe Murder Case

Detective Danny Clover investigates the suspicious death of Nancy Lee, who dies just days after a car accident. The case reveals a web of deceit involving her beneficiaries, including Joey Pell and Herb Morrie.

Ep 179 · Saturday, August 22, 1953 · 29:46

← PreviousThe Champagne GlassNext →The Door Key

Credits

  • Audio from Internet Archive (OTRR_Black_Museum_Singles). Curated by OTRR. Goldie does not claim ownership of this broadcast.
  • Historical context from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).

BlackMuseum-11-AClawHammer.mp3

The Black Museum, Episode 11

The Hammer ( a Claw Hammer)

Tuesday, March 11, 1952 · 25:41

The Black Museum, Episode 11

The Hammer ( a Claw Hammer)

Tuesday, March 11, 1952 · 25:41

Summary

A claw hammer becomes the centerpiece of a chilling tale of deception and murder when a smooth-talking handyman visits an unsuspecting woman. The stakes rise as he attempts to extort money from her, leading to a deadly confrontation.

Chapters

Fifties Fade

When TV took the living room (1950 and after).

24 episodes

Latest Air Dates

The newest broadcast dates in the archive.

24 episodes

That night in history

Headlines

  • 1952 — Fulgencio Batista leads a successful coup in Cuba.

On the air that night›

  1. Cavalcade of AmericaAdventure on the KentuckyEpisode 735
  2. Fibber McGee and Molly20Th Anniversary on NBCEpisode 689
  3. Mr. and Mrs. NorthDon't Cry Wolf [AFRS]Episode 440
  4. The Black MuseumThe Hammer ( a Claw Hammer)Currently listeningEpisode 11