Union Pacific

"Union Pacific" was a first-run syndicated half-hour western series following the exploits of Union Pacific Railroad district right-of-way supervisor Bart McClelland as he attempted to secure new right-of-way for the railroad and to maintain existing right-of-way from a multitude of problems such as outlaws, Indians, labor strife, lack of supplies, etc. Aided in his efforts by surveyor Billy Kinkaid, the series followed the railroad's construction, thus the setting changed week-to-week and was not confined to a western town such as Dodge or any number of other interchangeable western towns which served as settings for the many other western series of the late '50's.

As played by veteran character actors Jeff Morrow and Judson Pratt, Bart and Billy were well-cast and believable in their roles. The third main cast member was Georgia, who ran the Golden Nugget Saloon which was housed in a fancy railroad car and followed along with the rail crew on the newly laid tracks.

Although not necessarily distinguished from the many other western series of the late '50's, I found "Union Pacific" a very satisfying series because I was always intrigued by railroads and trains. One could have done much worse than watch this very decent western series.

I remember as a young teenager eagerly awaiting the weekly screening of this super little half hour western series. There always seemed to be plenty of action plus a dash of comedy. I remember the theme music was absolutely fantastic. Jeff Morrow's excellent portrayal of Bart McClelland was completely convincing and was never over the top. The relationship between McClelland and Kincaid worked extremely well and made for many of the lighter moments in the series, as did the character of Georgia, who ran the saloon which followed the railhead. I wonder did she ever manage to get her man and ensure a happy ending at the end of the line. Happy memories of a great series!