Sos Men’s Association

Originally Aired: February 12, 1940 Lum #256, "Sos Men's Association," The Men's Protective Association, formed by the married men of Pine Ridge to defend themselves against their wives' demands, is gaining momentum under Squire Skinner's leadership. Having successfully pressured Abner's wife Elizabeth into signing their pledge of cooperation, the organization now faces a test of loyalty when brother member Erv Hanley calls the Jot 'Em Down store seeking groceries on credit. While Abner wants to help a fellow association member, Lum refuses to extend credit to Erv since his account is months past due. The situation puts Abner in an awkward position as he tries to turn down his "brother" without directly rejecting him. Meanwhile, Squire arrives to announce he's designated February 12th as the association's official holiday, declaring Abraham Lincoln their patron saint as "the great emancipator" who freed slaves just as they're freeing men from female domination. The organization plans a meeting at the schoolhouse where a fellow from the county seat will teach self-defense lessons, as the men of Pine Ridge continue their campaign for domestic independence.