The First Traveling Saleslady

The 1956 American western comedy film directed by Arthur Lubin follows Rose Gillray (Ginger Rogers), a corset company owner and independent-minded suffragette in late 19th-century New York. After a failed attempt to promote her product through a stage show featuring singer Molly Wade (Carol Channing), which is shut down by the police, Rose's business teeters on the brink of bankruptcy. Seeking new opportunities, she agrees to sell barbed wire for steel magnate Jim Carter (David Brian), despite resistance from cattlemen, particularly Joel Kingdom (James Arness), who initially opposes her efforts but later develops romantic feelings for her. Accompanied by Molly and inventor Charles Masters (Barry Nelson), Rose faces numerous challenges, including societal prejudices against female salespeople and the perils of the Wild West. Her determination and innovative approach enable her to overcome obstacles and achieve success. The film is also notable for featuring an early appearance by Clint Eastwood as Lieutenant Jack Rice. Despite its star-studded cast, the film was not commercially successful and became one of the final projects produced by RKO Pictures.