Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "Abbott And Costello Children's Show 1948-09-11 Guest - Red Ryder"
Title: Abbott and Costello Children's Show
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Guest – Red Ryder
Release Date: July 10, 2025
Original Air Date: September 11, 1948
Harold's Old Time Radio presents a detailed exploration of the classic "Abbott and Costello Children's Show" from September 11, 1948. This episode features the dynamic comedy duo Abbott and Costello, along with their special guest, Red Ryder, a beloved character from America's Golden Age of Radio. The episode seamlessly blends humor, adventure, music, and community engagement, offering a nostalgic glimpse into a bygone era of family entertainment.
1. Introduction to the Show
The program kicks off with Bud Abbott and Lou Costello setting the stage for their Saturday morning audience. Abbott introduces the "Avenue Costello Kids Show," emphasizing the inclusion of the "Luke Costello Jr. Foundation Awards." These awards recognize and reward children for good citizenship, highlighting the show's commitment to fostering positive values among its young listeners.
Notable Quote:
- Bud Abbott [00:14]: "Every boy and girl kept eligible for this award. We'll tell you how to win it later in the program."
2. Comedy Banter Between Abbott and Costello
Abbott and Costello engage in their signature comedic exchange, showcasing their impeccable timing and humorous rapport. They discuss various topics, including mystery books, musical compositions, and personal anecdotes, all delivered with their trademark wit and playful teasing.
Notable Quotes:
- Lou Costello [00:48]: "What's in that book you're carrying on your arm? It's a mystery book. A mystery book? That's a book? No kidding."
- Bud Abbott [02:42]: "And now, the singing star of the Abbot and Castello Kid Girl 10 year old anime slaughter."
This segment not only entertains but also sets a lighthearted tone, making the audience feel at ease and engaged.
3. Dick Temple's Musical Performance
The show features a musical interlude by Dick Temple, bringing a melodic respite from the comedic antics. Temple performs the song "Underneath the Arches," captivating the young audience with his rendition. The performance is a blend of singing and occasional humorous interruptions by Abbott and Costello, adding an element of interactive fun.
Notable Quote:
- Dick Temple [03:04]: "Underneath the arches I dream my dreams."
Though the lyrics are intentionally quirky and somewhat nonsensical, they add to the whimsical atmosphere of the show, appealing to the children's imaginations.
4. Guest Appearance by Red Ryder
Red Ryder, a cherished character in Western-themed entertainment, joins Abbott and Costello, bringing an adventurous flair to the program. The segment features a scripted cowboy adventure where Red Ryder leads Abbott and Costello through the Mojave Desert in search of a lost gold mine. The interplay between the characters blends humor with suspense, engaging the listeners in their fictional quest.
Notable Quotes:
- Red Ryder [05:15]: "Hi kids. And thanks, Johnny. And now kids, how would you like to meet the boy that plays the part of Little Beaver in the Red Ryder series?"
- Lou Costello [07:04]: "You know, I think we're lost now. I don't see any sign of a trail."
The skit culminates in a dramatic yet humorous rescue story involving a young girl, Patsy May Cummings, who heroically saves her baby brother from a burning trailer, underscoring the show's theme of good citizenship and bravery.
5. "Bubble or Nothing" Contest
A highlight of the episode is the interactive "Bubble or Nothing" contest, where children from the studio audience and listeners participate in a bubble-blowing competition. The contest is designed to engage children actively, offering prizes for those who blow the biggest bubbles within a set time.
Process:
- Announcement: Abbott and Costello explain the rules, encouraging children to chew Bergen's Better Bubblegum.
- Competition: On the count of three, participants start blowing bubbles, with Abbott and Costello providing humorous commentary.
- Prizes: Winners receive prizes such as circus peanuts, toys, and radio sets.
Notable Quotes:
- Lou Costello [11:29]: "Well, the contestants are chewing their bergens, Bubblegum. On the count of three, the gun will ring and they will start blowing. Are you ready, kids? One, two. One, two, three. Come on."
- Lou Costello [12:10]: "What's your name, sweetie? Betty Lou."
This segment not only entertains but also fosters a sense of community and friendly competition among the young audience.
6. Youth Foundation Award Presentation
The emotional centerpiece of the episode is the presentation of the Luke Costello Jr. Youth Foundation Award. This award honors children aged 16 or younger who have performed outstanding good deeds or acts of heroism.
Story of Patsy May Cummings:
- Patsy May Cummings, a four-year-old girl from Illinois, is introduced as the week's award recipient.
- The narrative describes how Patsy May courageously saved her baby brother, James, from a burning trailer by picking him up and ensuring his safety.
- The segment highlights the extraordinary courage of a child so young, emphasizing the show's dedication to recognizing genuine acts of bravery and citizenship.
Notable Quotes:
- Lou Costello [22:22]: "Little Patsy May Cummings lived with her mother and her 13 months old baby brother in a trailer on a farm in Illinois."
- Bud Abbott [23:31]: "That's me, Jimmy. You're safe. You're all right. Mommy."
- Red Ryder [23:32]: "Lady, I didn't save the babies. When we got here, the trailer was nearly completely burned out and that little girl was sitting right where she is."
The award presentation is heartfelt, blending genuine admiration with the show's characteristic humor, reinforcing the values of bravery, responsibility, and community service.
7. Conclusion and Audience Engagement
As the show wraps up, Abbott and Costello provide information on how listeners can nominate future award recipients by writing letters. They also tease the next week's episode, promising more entertainment and another opportunity to honor exemplary children.
Notable Quotes:
- Bud Abbott [26:13]: "New Costello Junior Youth foundation award is given each week to a boy or girl for a civic good deed."
- Lou Costello [26:28]: "Well kids, that's all for today. That's right, bud, but we'll be back next Saturday with another great star and the award for some desert boy or girl."
The conclusion reinforces the show's commitment to community engagement and sets expectations for continued interaction and recognition in future episodes.
Final Thoughts
This episode of the "Abbott and Costello Children's Show" exemplifies the rich blend of humor, adventure, music, and community spirit that characterized Golden Age radio entertainment. Through engaging skits, interactive contests, and heartfelt award presentations, Abbott and Costello created a multifaceted program that delighted and inspired young listeners. The inclusion of heroes like Patsy May Cummings serves as a testament to the show's enduring legacy in promoting positive values and recognizing the extraordinary within the ordinary lives of children.
For those unfamiliar with the episode, this summary provides a comprehensive overview, capturing the essence and key elements that made the "Abbott and Costello Children's Show" a cherished part of American radio history.