Skip to main content
Lum & Abner: Classic Small-Town Comedy artwork

Lum & Abner: Classic Small-Town Comedy

Circus is Big Business in Mena

Posted August 24, 2025 · 14 min

About this episode

Originally Aired: March 28, 1935 In Lum & Abner #74, “Circus is Big Business in Mena,” the circus has officially moved to the county seat—and business is booming. But back in Pine Ridge, the old fellows aren’t exactly celebrating. Lum, Abner, and Cedric are all battling severe headaches and worsening vision, convinced it’s not their health, but the town’s drinking water. The infamous spectacle salesman has now outfitted nearly the entire community, including a two-month-old baby. As everyone walks around with blurry vision, magnified flies, and exaggerated perspectives, the real problem becomes hilariously clear. Meanwhile, a call from Squire Skimp confirms a packed tent and roaring success in Mena. While the circus thrives, Pine Ridge suffers a headache epidemic—and a serious case of buyer’s remorse. Cast: Chester Lauck (Lum Edwards), Norris Goff (Abner Peabody), voices of supporting characters including Cedric Wehunt, Squire Skimp, and Grandpappy Spears Tags: LumAndAbner, oldtimeradio, 1930scomedy, JotEmDownStore, circusinmena, SquireSkimp, PineRidge, radiohumor, vintagebroadcast, Horlicks, spectaclefiasco, vaudeville, farsightedfun, smalltownantics, GoffAndLauck, headacheepidemic, countyseatcircus

From Lum & Abner: Classic Small-Town Comedy by lumabner. Visit the show’s website.

More from Lum & Abner: Classic Small-Town Comedy

All episodes