Ep 1. Lost Treasure

The Big Valley is a beloved western drama series that aired from 1965-1969. In season 2 episode 1, titled "Lost Treasure," the Barkley family is faced with yet another challenge. The episode opens with Jarrod Barkley (played by Richard Long) receiving a letter from an old friend and colleague, George Woodley, who is in desperate need of help. George's reputation has been ruined after being falsely accused of stealing a wagon of gold from a nearby mining company. As a result, he has lost everything and is now on the run from the law.

The Barkleys decide to help George by offering him refuge on their ranch. However, before they can even begin to unravel the mystery of the missing treasure, they must first contend with the arrival of a new neighbor, Samantha Crawford (played by Barbara Stanwyck). Samantha is wealthy and independent, but also cunning and calculating. She sets her sights on the Barkley ranch and uses every trick in the book to try and get her hands on it.

While Samantha's scheming and conniving creates a tense and dramatic backdrop to the episode, the real heart of the story lies in the search for the lost treasure. With the help of George's daughter, Rachel, and the experienced tracker, Burl Masters, the Barkleys venture into the rugged terrain of the Sierra Mountains to uncover the truth about the missing gold.

As they journey deeper into the wilderness, they encounter a host of obstacles and challenges, from treacherous terrain to dangerous wildlife. Yet, despite all the dangers, the Barkleys remain determined to unravel the mystery and clear their friend's name.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning shots of the California countryside, from sweeping vistas of the mountains to intimate shots of the Barkley ranch. The attention to detail in the costumes and props is also impressive, transporting the viewer back to the Old West in all its glory.

Ultimately, "Lost Treasure" is a classic episode of The Big Valley that perfectly captures the mix of action, drama, and intrigue that made the show so iconic. It is a powerful reminder of the enduring appeal of the western genre, as well as a testament to the strength of the Barkley family and their unwavering dedication to justice and loyalty.