Podcast Summary: Lum and Abner 1933-01-02 Hunting The Lion
Introduction
In this engaging episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Lum and Abner 1933-01-02 Hunting The Lion," listeners are transported to the quaint community of Pine Ridge. The beloved characters Lum Edwards and Abner Peabody embark on a humorous and adventurous quest to capture a troublesome lion that has recently escaped captivity, causing unrest among the townsfolk.
Plot Overview
The episode opens with Lum returning to the garage where Abner is diligently preparing for another expedition into the mountains to hunt the elusive lion. Abner reveals his unconventional plan to Lum: instead of the typical hunting methods, he intends to utilize an elephant named Baby as part of their strategy.
Dialogue and Character Dynamics
From the outset, the camaraderie and comedic tension between Lum and Abner are evident. Lum questions Abner's sanity, exclaiming at [02:38], “Listen, Abner, what in the name of common sense are you up to now?” Abner, undeterred, confidently responds, “[02:44] Abner Peabody: Well, I'm getting things all ready to go on that lion hunt tonight, Lum.”
The duo debates the practicality of using an elephant for hunting, with Lum highlighting the absurdity: “[02:50] Lum Edwards: Who ever heard of hunting lions with an elephant?” Abner counters by referencing a book supposedly authored by Dick Huddleston, suggesting that this method is both novel and effective.
The Elephant Hunt Strategy
Abner elaborates on his plan, referencing a photograph from the book that shows hunters riding elephants during lion hunts. Lum remains skeptical, pointing out the impracticalities of such a method: “[03:27] Lum Edwards: Well, you can't make no hunting dog out of an elephant, I can tell you that right now.”
Their conversation delves into the logistics of the hunt, with Abner expressing confidence in their homemade modifications: “[04:11] Abner Peabody: Yeah. Well, now, you just wait. Now, me and Cedric's got a scheme worked out where there'll be room for all of us up there on his back.”
Introducing the Contest
Midway through the episode, Lum and Abner introduce a community contest to name the elephant. Lum explains the idea to Dick Huddleston, a local resident, seeking his involvement as a judge for the contest: “[09:16] Lum Edwards: Well, you know, when I telephoned sister Simpson the other day down there at your store to see if she could think up a good name.”
Dick expresses hesitation, concerned about the responsibility: “[10:04] Dick Huddleston: Oh, no, now, Lum, I'd rather not hear.”
Undeterred, Lum proceeds to announce the contest over the community’s party line network, offering a new Ford radio as the prize for the best name submitted: “[10:33] Lum Edwards: ...We're going to give a new Ford radio to the person who sends in the name the judges select as the best.”
Humorous Mishaps and Revelations
As preparations for the hunt continue, Abner unveils his makeshift hunting ensemble attached to the elephant, leading to a series of comedic moments. Lum critiques the absurdity of Abner's contraptions: “[11:25] Lum Edwards: I don't know. That's something Abner's doing. Come on out there a minute, Abner. What in the name. What's that business you got up on that elephant's back?”
Abner proudly explains his modifications, trying to rationalize the ridiculous setup: “[11:39] Abner Peabody: I know that. This is what they call a hoodah in that book. That's what we're going to ride in.”
Lum remains unimpressed, highlighting the impractical nature of their plans: “[12:02] Dick Huddleston: Is that a dish pan upside down there that you're wearing for a hat?”
Community Involvement and Final Preparations
Gene Hamilton, presumably a representative from the local Ford dealership, interjects at [12:26] to remind listeners about the ongoing contest and Ford vehicle promotions. However, Lum and Abner continue to focus on their hunt, demonstrating their unwavering commitment despite the mounting skepticism.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Lum and Abner’s ambitious yet comical preparations to embark on their lion hunt, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating the outcome. Lum laments the impracticality of their approach, while Abner remains steadfast in his conviction that their unconventional methods will succeed.
Notable Quotes
- Lum Edwards [02:38]: “Listen, Abner, what in the name of common sense are you up to now?”
- Abner Peabody [02:44]: “Well, I'm getting things all ready to go on that lion hunt tonight, Lum.”
- Lum Edwards [02:50]: “Who ever heard of hunting lions with an elephant?”
- Abner Peabody [04:11]: “Yeah. Well, now, you just wait. Now, me and Cedric's got a scheme worked out where there'll be room for all of us up there on his back.”
- Lum Edwards [09:16]: “Well, you know, when I telephoned sister Simpson the other day down there at your store to see if she could think up a good name.”
- Lum Edwards [10:33]: “We're going to give a new Ford radio to the person who sends in the name the judges select as the best.”
Final Thoughts
"Lum and Abner 1933-01-02 Hunting The Lion" masterfully blends humor with light-hearted adventure, showcasing the endearing dynamics between Lum and Abner. Their inventive, albeit flawed, strategies and the community's involvement through the naming contest add layers of charm and wit, making this episode a delightful listen for fans of classic radio comedies.