When Amanda Blake appeared on the Mike Douglas Show in 1974 after leaving Gunsmoke she stated that Miss Kitty was actually a Madame in addition to selling alcohol at the Long Branch Saloon. The show never stated how she earned her money to purchase the Long Branch, all we know is that she came from New Orleans. I think there was something holding Matt Dillon back from marrying Miss Kitty, and I think her profession or former profession is probably the answer.

When Amanda Blake appeared on the Mike Douglas Show in 1974 after leaving Gunsmoke she stated that Miss Kitty was actually a Madame in addition to selling alcohol at the Long Branch Saloon. The show never stated how she earned her money to purchase the Long Branch, all we know is that she came from New Orleans. I think there was something holding Matt Dillon back from marrying Miss Kitty, and I think her profession or former profession is probably the answer.

I think you're right.

FWIW, there never was a question in my mind that this is the case.

I've read that when Gunsmoke was just a radio show, they were a little more blatant about why cowboys were taken upstairs. It just stands to figure why Kitty would be in such a business in the first place. Gotta start at the bottom and work your way up.

I also read where the original Doc Adams on the radio show was portrayed by Howard "Floyd" McNear, and was somewhat more ghoulish about deaths in Dodge City yielding much appreciated autopsy fees for him

Miss Kitty was a saloon girl aka as a prostitute in today’s times. Saloons are called brothels now. During the 1st season or 2 of Matt Dillon, Miss Kitty was a saloon lady. Later on, she was a saloon owner.