Hidden Gems: Obscure TV Shows from the Golden Age of Television

The world of television is vast, offering both mainstream hits and niche gems that have fallen into obscurity. One era, in particular, is brimming with fascinating and forgotten series: the late 1950s and early 1960s. Let's dive into a few hidden treasures from this period and explore why they deserve more recognition.

A Hidden Western: Whiplash (1959-1960)

By the late 1950s, the Western genre was in full swing, with iconic shows like Have Gun Will Travel, Cheyenne, and Maverick gaining widespread acclaim. However, one Western that has largely slipped under the radar is the Australian series Whiplash.

Based on the life of American pioneer Freeman Cobb, who co-founded the legendary Australian stagecoach company Cobb Co., Whiplash brings to life a unique blend of adventure and drama. The series stars the Canadian actor Peter Graves as Freeman Cobb, with a cast including Greta Gynt, George Pravda, and Patrick Troughton. The series was a joint British-Australian production, making it a fascinating example of international collaboration in the early days of television.

The series premiered in Australia in 1960, and it's believed to have been shown in the UK as well. Frank Ifield sang the theme song, adding a distinct Australian flavor to the production. Though Whiplash may not be a household name, it offers a compelling narrative that deserves a broader audience.

Other Obscure Series from the 1950s

Joining the ranks of Whiplash are a host of other shows that, while almost forgotten today, are rich with nostalgic value and cultural significance. Here are a few more obscure TV series from the 1950s:

FIVE CHILDREN AND IT (1951) - This adaptation of E. Nesbit’s children's book series features a young boy and his friends solving mysteries. It's a delightful piece of television that might have captivated audiences of the time but has since been lost in the annals of forgotten television. CRIME WITH FATHER (1951-1952) - The show follows a unique father-daughter crime-solving duo, pairing up tight-knit crime-solving skills with a comedic touch. It’s a charming blend of mystery and humor that is often overlooked. ELECTRODE 93 (1957) - A science fiction series featuring characters like Greta Gynt, George Pravda, and Patrick Troughton, this show has a somewhat cult following but is far from being widely known. It offers a glimpse into the early days of science fiction on television. MARTIN KANE, PRIVATE EYE (1958/59) - This noir detective series combines mystery, suspense, and a touch of mystery-solving ingenuity that would appeal to today's audiences.

The Lost World of Late 1950s TV Shows

The late 1950s was a time of exciting experimentation and production in the world of television. Shows like Whiplash and the others mentioned here represent a period when television was still finding its footing as a major form of entertainment. These shows catered to a diverse range of audiences and genres, from Westerns and detective dramas to mystery and science fiction.

Today, these series may be obscure, but they are a fascinating look at the evolution of television. While many of these shows are rarely or never shown as reruns, they still have a dedicated fanbase and can be discovered through archives and enthusiasts online.

So, for anyone seeking something unique and off the beaten path, these are just a few of the hidden gems waiting to be rediscovered.