Lum Returns: A Disappearing Act and a Silver-Screen Dream

Originally Aired: May 28, 1935 In Lum & Abner #117, “Lum Returns,” panic grips Pine Ridge after Lum vanishes without a trace following the failed unveiling of his self-funded statue. Fearing the worst, the townsfolk drag the mill pond and spread sightings from every direction. Just as hope fades, a call reveals the truth—Lum’s back! He reappears with surprising cheer, explaining his spontaneous trip to Kansas City as a soul-searching retreat. Reinvigorated, he announces a bold new plan to open a picture show in Pine Ridge, aiming to bring modern entertainment to the countryside. This episode is a heartwarming turn from despair to ambition, rich with humor, friendship, and small-town dreams. Cast: Chester Lauck (Lum Edwards), Norris Goff (Abner Peabody), supporting voices including Grandpappy Spears, Cedric, and Dick Huddleston Tags: LumAndAbner, oldtimeradio, 1930scomedy, JotEmDownStore, PineRidge, radiohumor, vintagebroadcast, Horlicks, statueceremony, missingLum, picturebusiness, smalltowncomedy, vaudeville, classicradio, KansasCitytrip, ruraladventure, GrandpappySpears, Cedric, millpondsearch