Lost TV Western Classics: Brave Eagle - Volume 1

A courageous Cheyenne warrior protects his tribe from hostile invaders in this long-lost Western series! Brave Eagle made history as the first TV program to feature an American Indian as the lead character. In addition, stories focused on the plight of Native Americans, a rarity on television at the time. Though star Keith Larsen was in fact of Norwegian descent, both the actors playing his girlfriend Morning Star (Kim Winona) and adopted son Keena (Anthony Numkena, using the stage name Keena Nomkeena) were of Indian heritage. Providing comic relief is Bert Wheeler, of the popular 1930s comedy duo Wheeler & Woolsey, as an absent-minded Indian wise man. Made by Roy Rogers Productions, the series was shot at the cowboy legend's 130-acre ranch in Chatsworth, California. Despite only lasting one season, Brave Eagle spawned a merchandising blitz including storybooks, lunch boxes and a comic series from Dell Publishing.

THE CHALLENGE: An angry tribesman challenges Brave Eagle to a fight to the death.

WAR PAINT: Keena is kidnapped by the leader of a rival tribe.

CODE OF A CHIEF: Brave Eagle is blamed when a gold miner disappears.

SHIELD OF HONOR: A shifty con artist befriends Keena, looking to gain influence over Brave Eagle.