The Apple Dumpling Gang

In 1879, Russell Donovan rides into Quake City, captivated by the promise of adventure in the Wild West. His arrival signifies the start of his quest to establish a casino in New Orleans, igniting his ambitious plans.

Donovan soon learns that John Wintle, his old associate, has fled, leaving behind three orphaned children: Bobby, Clovis, and Celia Bradley. This unexpected turn of events places the burden of caring for the children squarely on Donovan's shoulders, complicating his original plans.

Sheriff Homer McCoy informs Donovan of his legal obligation to look after the Bradleys. As the townspeople gather, Donovan realizes that he cannot easily escape his new responsibility.

The Bradley children create havoc within Quake City, riding in an old mine cart and causing property damage. This chaos results in demands for compensation that further strain Donovan's finances, jeopardizing his casino plans.

A new threat arises in the form of the Hashknife Outfit, comprised of Amos Tucker and Theodore Ogelvie. Their bumbling attempts to swindle Donovan set off a series of comedic yet threatening events that disrupt the town.

While searching for allies, the Bradley siblings accidentally stumble upon a gold nugget in Amos and Theodore's hideout. This discovery transforms them into targets for others who wish to exploit their newfound treasure.

In a strategic move to legally secure guardianship of the Bradleys, Donovan marries Magnolia 'Dusty' Clydesdale. This decision allows him to make a trip to New Orleans unencumbered by the threat of Wintle reclaiming his wards.

Unexpectedly, John Wintle returns with a court order demanding the return of the Bradley children. This renewed claim brings further complications to Donovan's guardianship and his plans for the future.

Amos and Theodore attempt to steal the gold from the local bank, but their poorly executed plan results in their capture. Sheriff McCoy punishes them to send a message against lawlessness, leading to a temporary retreat by the duo.

Frank Stillwell, leader of the Stillwell Gang, devises a plan to seize the Bradleys' gold. He disguises himself as a clergyman to infiltrate the town and gather information about the treasure's whereabouts.

The Stillwell Gang executes a brazen bank heist in broad daylight to acquire the gold nugget. The chaos intensifies when the Bradley siblings and the Hashknife Outfit inadvertently team up to orchestrate their own robbery amidst the confusion.

As the heist unravels, Frank Stillwell seizes the opportunity to kidnap Celia. Donovan, accompanied by Dusty, makes a daring rescue, leading to an unexpected realization of their love for one another.

In an unexpected twist, Amos and Theodore hide in the bank vault, inadvertently triggering dynamite that collapses the structure. This explosion scatters gold across town, leading to widespread chaos.

With John Wintle relinquishing his claims over the children, Donovan takes advantage of the situation to collect the Stillwell bounty. He chooses to invest in a ranch for the family, providing stability for the Bradleys.

As they embark on their new life together, Donovan welcomes Amos and Theodore as farmhands. Their quirky companionship brings a sense of closure to the series of whimsical events they all experienced.