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Lum & Abner: Classic Small-Town Comedy

The Real Reason Abner Disappeared

Posted February 27, 2026 · 14 min

About this episode

Originally Aired: August 2, 1935 In Lum & Abner #165, “The Real Reason Abner Disappeared,” Pine Ridge is buzzing with worry after Abner vanishes without a trace. Rumors swirl that Squire Skimp and Snake Hogan may have had a hand in his disappearance—especially after forcing him to sell the Jot ’Em Down Store for $2,000. Elizabeth blames herself, fearing her recent obsession with high society drove Abner away for good. Meanwhile, Squire promotes his latest silver mine scheme, claiming a wealthy Arizona millionaire, Mr. Worthington, is arriving to buy out the operation—sending stockholders into a frenzy. Just as tensions peak and suspicions mount, a luxurious automobile rolls into town… and out steps none other than Abner himself, dressed to the nines and fully embracing the very society life he once resisted. This episode delivers a perfect blend of mystery, satire, small-town gossip, and an unexpected comedic twist. Cast: Chester Lauck (Lum Edwards), Norris Goff (Abner Peabody), supporting voices including Squire Skimp, Snake Hogan, Grandpap, Elizabeth, and Dick Huddleston Tags: LumAndAbner, oldtimeradio, 1930scomedy, PineRidge, JotEmDownStore, SquireSkimp, SnakeHogan, silverminescheme, MrWorthington, societyspoof, Abnerreturns, vintagebroadcast, Horlicks, ruralcomedy, classicradio, smalltownmystery, GoffAndLauck

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