Nevada Historical Society to host ‘Vigilantes of Boomtown’ film

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A Red Ryder western film from 1947 that uses one of Carson City’s most historic events as a backdrop will be shown at the Nevada Historical Society at noon on July 20.

“Vigilantes of Boomtown,” which stars Allan Lane as Red Ryder, is set in Carson City in 1897 and the plot revolves around the world championship boxing match between champion Gentleman Jim Corbett and challenger Bob Fitzsimmons.

The film is being shown as the monthly program of “High Noon: Shootout with Neal Cobb.” Admission is $5, with children 17 and younger admitted for free.

In the film, the ranch owned by Red Ryder and his aunt, the Duchess, is being used as the training site for Corbett.

Molly McVey, the daughter of a U.S. Senator, is leading a crusade against prize fighting. She complicates matters after hatching a plan to have Corbett kidnapped in order to force a cancellation of the fight.

Meanwhile, a gang of bandits descends on Carson City with the intent of robbing the bank flush with cash from the fight activities.

The film is 56 minutes and Cobb will take questions after the showing.

The Nevada Historical Society is at 1650 N. Virginia St., Reno.

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