Today in Mayberry History - May 20. Virginia Sale was born on this date in 1899. She appeared in “The Andy Griffith Show” twice. She first played Mrs. Beggs who complained about a woman speeder then segued into discussing her sister Tilly (though some called her “The Beaver” because of a gum condition). Her complaining led to Barney buying a war surplus motorcycle with a sidecar. She also appeared as an unnamed woman in the color episode when Barney came back to Mayberry for a class reunion. Virginia’s career spanned 1927 to 1975. Her earliest appearances were in silent comedy films. She also played the recurring character Selma Plout in five of her eight appearances in “Petticoat Junction” (1964-1965). Virginia passed away in 1992. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 19. Sherwood Keith was born on this date in 1912. He played three different characters in “The Andy Griffith Show.” In Season 2, he played handyman Mr. Murray. Later that same season, in three episodes, he played Sam, a frequent fixture at Floyd’s. In Season 3, he was Merle, a member of the town council. Sherwood acted in film and TV between 1959 and 1970, usually in small, sometimes uncredited parts. He appeared most often in “The Andy Griffith Show,” but also appeared in such series as “Bat Masterson” (1959), “The Real McCoys” (1961), and “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” (1964). Sherwood passed away in 1972. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 18. Happy Birthday to Rodney Dillard, born on this date in 1942! Rodney portrayed the slack-jawed, guitar-playing brother of the Darling boys and provided lead vocals. Rodney and his brother Doug, along with Mitch Jayne and Dean Webb, made up the now legendary bluegrass band The Dillards which set off a movement sometimes referred to as “Newgrass.” Other than in a color episode, where all the Darling boys were referred to by the actor’s actual names, his character was not named on the show though in the script for “The Darlings Are Coming” his character was named Frankie. Rodney was not a traditional actor, but in addition to his six appearances on TAGS and in the TV movie “Return to Mayberry,” he played a guitar player in the TV movie “The Return of the Beverly Hillbillies” (1981) and was one of the country band members in Bette Midler’s “The Rose” (1979). Rodney is a frequent guest at Mayberry events and will attend and perform at Mayberry Comes to Scottsburg in Indiana in June! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 17. Alice Backes was born on this date in 1923. When Ernest T. Bass was in town to try to join the Army, Alice played Olive, a widow with four children who worked at the diner. After both Andy and Barney, each leave a quarter tip, Andy convinces Barney not to go back to get one of the quarters. When Olive tries to return one of the quarters the next day, Barney refuses, saying, “Who do you think you’re dealing with? A couple of pikers? You got yourself a half a ‘C’ tip. Enjoy it.” Over a 49-year career, Alice appeared over 100 times in film and TV, but her first TV appearance was as a contestant on Groucho Marx’s “You Bet Your Life” (1950). She played the recurring characters Vickie in “Bachelor Father” (1957-1958) and June Foster in “Bewitched” (1964-1965). More importantly to Mayberry fans, she played two characters in “Mayberry R.F.D.” (1970-1971): Miss Fawcett (1970) and the recurring character Miss Pringle (1970-1971). Alice passed away in 2007. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 16. Don Knotts won his first Emmy Award on this date in 1961 for “Outstanding Performance in a Supporting Role by an Actor” for his portrayal of Barney Fife during Season 1 (1960-1961) of “The Andy Griffith Show.” He would go on to win four more in future years. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 15. Doris Dowling was born on this date in 1923. Doris played Madeline Grayson, Floyd’s pen pal in a Lonely Hearts Club. Horrified when the wealthy widow asked to meet him as he had exaggerated his business, he never learned what Andy did: She was a con woman who sponged money from men she met through the club. Doris is best known for her role as the barfly drinking companion to the alcoholic character played by Ray Milland in the 1945 film “The Lost Weekend.” Her final role was in a 1984 episode of “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Doris passed away in 2004. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 14. Fred Sherman was born on this date in 1905. Fred played Fred Goss who ran the cleaning shop in Mayberry. Fred talks about the need for one always to look one’s best while smoking a cigarette with a long column of ash falling onto himself and clothes he had just cleaned. After a long career as a character actor with over 140 roles, Fred suffered a stroke shortly after his second appearance on “The Andy Griffith Show” as Mr. Goss. He ultimately was confined to the Motion Picture Country Home retirement facility, where he lived until he died in 1969. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 13. Bill Idelson was born on this date in 1919. Bill co-wrote 19 episodes of “The Andy Griffith Show” with writing partner Sam Bobrick during the black-and-white and color years. Black-and-white episodes included “The Shoplifters” (for which the writing team won a Writer’s Guild of America Award), “A Deal Is a Deal,” and “Goober Takes a Car Apart.” Color episodes included “The Return of Barney Fife,” “Big Fish in a Small Town,” and “A Visit to Barney Fife.” Bill also wrote for many other series, including 23 episodes of “Gomer Pyle-USMC.” He helped create the anthology show “Love, American Style” and received an Emmy nomination for the series in 1971. He also acted and is best remembered for his portrayal of the recurring character Herman Glimscher, Sally Roger’s milquetoast boyfriend on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” (1963 and 1965-1966). Bill passed away in 2007. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 5. To all the mothers and mother figures, Happy Mother’s Day! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 11. Denver Pyle was born on this date in 1920. Denver played Briscoe Darling, the mountain man patriarch of the Darling family. Even though he was on only six episodes, Denver as Briscoe and the rest of the Darling family made a huge impression on Mayberry fans. One of Denver’s most memorable film roles was as Texas Ranger Frank Hamer, the hostage of the title characters in 1967’s “Bonnie and Clyde.” Denver played “Mad Jack” in 37 episodes of “The Life and Times of Grizzly Adams” (1977-1978) but is best remembered to most as Uncle Jesse in “The Dukes of Hazzard” (1979-1985). Of particular interest to Mayberry fans is that Gomer’s last name of “Pyle” was used as a nod to Denver’s family name. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 8. Don Rickles was born on this date in 1926. Don appeared in “The Andy Griffith Show” as Newton Monroe, a traveling salesman selling a wide variety of items of questionable quality from his trunk without a license. Barney tried to work him extra hard while he served his sentence, but Newton was not all that “ept” and continuously and unintentionally caused problems. Don was an incredibly respected comedian and actor whose most recent work was voicing Mr. Potato Head in several TV shorts and providing the voice for “Toy Story 4.” Don was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Live Performance in recognition of his decades as a sought after nightclub performer. Don passed away in 2017. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
A Mayberry Moment - Floyd: “I always did wanna be a barber, even when I was just a—when I was a little, tiny kid. I used to practice on cats.” Mr. Harmon: “Cats?” Floyd: “Yeah, I’d catch ‘em in the alley then I’d clip ‘em. We had the baldest cats in the county.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 6. “The Big House” first aired on this date in 1963. “Now here at ‘The Rock’ we have two basic rules. Memorize them so that you can say them in your sleep. The first rule is: Obey all rules. Secondly, do not write on the walls as it takes a lot of work to erase writing off the walls.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 5. Happy Cinco de Mayo! This is probably not a celebratory day with which Briscoe Darling was familiar, considering his reaction when Barney flaunted the Spanish he may have learned in his high school Spanish Club. Barney: Adios, amigo. Briscoe: He one o’ our’n? #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 1. It’s Free Comic Book Day! Comic book shops around the country give away select comic book samples on the first Saturday in May (though my experience has been that they usually still have at least some available in the days following May 1). Comic books were Gomer and Goober’s preferred reading material. Comic books based on “The Andy Griffith Show” were published in the 60s, but the colorist must have never seen any promotional photos or the eventual covers of the comics themselves, as he or she did not realize Opie had red hair and thus showed him with blond hair. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 3. Happy National Paranormal Day! May the spirit of Count Istvan Teleky be generous in granting your wishes #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - May 2. “Goodbye Camp Henderson, Hello Sergeant Carter,” the final episode of “Gomer Pyle-USMC” aired on today’s date in 1969. USMC never placed lower than tenth in the Nielsen ratings and was ranked second its final year. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 30. Dick Elliott, Mayberry’s fat little Mayor Pike, was born on this date in 1886. He is best known for his role in “The Andy Griffith Show”, though he appeared in over 240 films over his lengthy film career, usually in brief but memorable appearances. A great example can be found in “It’s a Wonderful Life.” (“Why don’t you kiss her instead of talking her to death?” and after George Bailey asked, “You want me to kiss her, Huh?” he responded, “Ah, youth is wasted on the wrong people.”) Dick broke into television with a recurring role from 1950 to 1951 in “Dick Tracy” as Officer Murphy and appeared in well over 100 TV series. Dick died in December 1961, a month before the airing of his last appearance as Mayor Pike in the 1962 episode “The Manicurist,” eventually resulting in the introduction of Mayor Stoner. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 29. Ernest T. Bass was first seen on today’s date in 1963 in the classic “Mountain Wedding,” which was also the second appearance of the Darling family. “I wouldn’t marry you if you were the last man on earth.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 28. Robert Cornthwaite was born on this day in 1917. Robert played Mr. Somerset, the state investigator sent to ascertain whether the Mayberry Sheriff’s Department truly needed the additional funds Barney had requested. He was a no-nonsense man who showed little inclination to grant the additional funding until he was overrun by the 11 dogs brought into the courthouse to avoid the storm. Robert preferred stage work over film and TV but had a successful career in both. He played recurring characters John James Audubon in “The Adventures of Jim Bowie” (1956-1957), Windish in “Get Smart” (1965), Sir Ives Wallace in “Daniel Boone” (1968-1970), Judge Edward P. Langdon in “Dynasty” (1988), and Hives in “Cheers” (1992-1993). He may be best remembered as Howard Buss in “Picket Fences” (1992-1994). Robert passed away in 2006. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 26. Florence MacMichael was born on this date in 1919. She was Barney’s second love interest in “The Andy Griffith Show,” Hilda Mae. Florence was a recurring character in two episodes each of two series: “The Andy Griffith Show” and as Mrs. Amy Loomis in “Bachelor Father” (1959-1960). Florence also appeared in the Disney film “The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit” (1968). To many, she is best remembered as the series regular Winnie Kirkwood, Wilbur’s neighbor for two seasons on “Mr. Ed” (1963-1965), but she is best remembered by Mayberry fans as the woman who called Barney “Barney Parney Pooh!” Florence passed away in 1999. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 25. And Happy National Hug a Plumber Day! Barney once lamented he blew his chance at college by letting his mind wander in high school. He said it was especially unfortunate as he had a connection, a direct line to the FBI: he had an uncle who knew a man who used to do a lot of plumbing in Washington, D.C. Barney explained they only took college grads. Andy jokingly asked, “As plumbers?” An irritated Barney responded, “As FBI men!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 24. Russ Conway was born in Canada on this date in 1913. Russ only had one appearance in “The Andy Griffith Show” and is definitely also the only person to ever appear in Mayberry in a tank! Russ was Major Hobart riding in the tank Andy pulled over afraid Barney had gone all out at the army surplus auction after surrendering his beloved motorcycle and sidecar he got at just such an auction. Russ first broke into films in uncredited roles for the first half dozen years of his career, from 1947 to 1953. While he shifted primarily to TV acting in ’53, he still acted in films in more noteworthy roles. He was Reverend Bethany in “War of the Worlds” (1953) and Ed Galt, the friend of Elvis Presley’s character in Elvis’s film debut, “Love Me Tender” (1956). Russ is best remembered as Fenton Hardy, the father of the Hardy Boys, the youthful detectives in episodes shown in 1956 and 1957 as part of “The Mickey Mouse Club.” Russ passed away in 2009. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 23. It is National Lost Dogs Awareness Day! This day only began to be observed in 2014. Interesting that the date chosen was just one day after the date “Dogs, Dogs, Dogs” was first broadcast! “I been huntin’ them critters high and low. Them’s my dogs!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 22. Happy Birthday to Sylvia Lewis, born on this date in 1931! Sylvia played Flossie, the “harem girl” exotic dancer in the carnival known as “The Sultan’s Favorite” in the final black and white episode of “The Andy Griffith Show.” When the carnival show closed, it became clear Flossie’s duties also included stacking the chairs so they could move on to a different carnival. As a trained dancer and in addition to acting, Sylvia worked as a choreographer for various TV productions, including creating her own ersatz “Arabian dance” for her appearance in Mayberry. She also played a con woman dancer named Ginger Fay on “Gomer Pyle-USMC” the same year she appeared on “The Andy Griffith Show.” In the 1970s, she transitioned to doing choreography exclusively. Before, throughout, and beyond her nearly 25-year career as a character actor, Sylvia continued to work on stage until she was in her 60s. “I didn’t see anything disgraceful about it. And I’ve seen it six times!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 21. Jack Elinson was born on this date in 1922. Much of Jack’s career was spent writing with partner Charles Stewart. They wrote nearly half of the first two seasons of “The Andy Griffith Show” (29 of 64 episodes) and won a Writer’s Guild of America Award for “Manhunt,” the second episode of the series. They also wrote extensively for shows such as “The Real McCoys” (32 episodes, 1957-1960) and “Make Room for Daddy,” which became “The Danny Thomas Show” (112 episodes, 1956-1964). Jack went on to serve as executive producer on a number of shows, such as “One Day at a Time” (1976-1979) and “The Facts of Life” (1980-1986). Jack passed away in 2011. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 20. Happy Birthday to Clint Howard, born this date in 1959! Ron Howard’s little brother, Clint, played Leon on “The Andy Griffith Show,” the silent little boy who was always dressed as a cowboy and generously offered to share his peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with all he encountered. Still an active actor, Clint has had a long, successful career and is among the select group of child actors who successfully transitioned to a successful career in the film and TV industry as an adult. He wrote about his experiences along with his brother in the excellent book, “The Boys.” As a child actor, Clint is best remembered for his series “Gentle Ben” (1967-1969). He also voiced Roo in two Winnie the Pooh shorts (1966 and 1968) and Hathi, Jr. in “The Jungle Book” (1967). In “Star Trek” circles, he is known for having guest starred in “The Corbomite Maneuver” (1966), the first episode of the series to be filmed after the pilot (though it was not the first to be aired). He has become a sought-after character actor who can be depended upon to consistently deliver a solid performance. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 19. Happy Birthday to the lovely Elinor Donahue born this date in 1937! Elinor played Ellie Walker, Andy’s first love interest in “The Andy Griffith Show,” first appearing in the fourth episode of Season 1. The original plans of the producers were changed when the hoped-for chemistry between the characters did not materialize, and Elinor asked to be released from her three-year contract. Part of the problem may have been the 11-year age difference between the actors. Regardless, Ellie is the favorite of Andy’s girlfriends among many fans. Elinor began appearing at the age of five in dancing chorus film roles after acting and dancing as a child in vaudeville and radio. As a teenager, she soon was being cast in small parts in films such as “Three Daring Daughters” (1948) as one of the daughters and “Love Is Better than Ever” (1952), which starred Elizabeth Taylor. Elinor’s break into stardom came when she was cast as Betty “Princess” Anderson, the oldest daughter, in “Father Knows Best” (1954-1960), the role for which she is best known. She has appeared in TV series as varied as “Many Happy Returns” (1964-1965) in which she co-starred, “Star Trek” (1967), “The Flying Nun” (1968 and ’70) as the sister of Sally Fields’ character, “The Odd Couple” (1972-1975) as recurring character Miriam Welby, and “Get a Life” (1990-1992) as the mother of Chris Elliott’s character. She also continued to work in film, including “Pretty Woman” (1990) as Bridget, a Beverly Hills clothing store manager. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 18. April is Safe Digging Month! If planting a tree, just be sure there aren’t any water pipes in the area! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 17. Happy International Bat Appreciation Day! When Barney and Thelma Lou were exploring a cave, Barney said he didn’t like caves since bats lived in them, explaining they “[f]ly in your hair, get tangled up in there, and lay their eggs, and you go crazy.” And we can’t forget Otis looked at an inkblot test and said he saw a bat. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 16. “The Bookie Barber” first aired on this date in 1962. Thanks to a new criminal barber in the barbershop, Floyd was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of being able to offer “Two Chairs, No Waiting.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 15. “A Wife for Andy” first aired on this date in 1963. As Barney diligently tried to find a wife for Andy, one of the women he spotted walking was Lorraine Beasley, though Barney thought she might be a little young. The name was an inside shout-out to Andy’s cousin of the same name who was married to Earlie Gilley, another name that appeared more than once. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 14. Happy International Moment of Laughter Day! “The Andy Griffith Show” has more than done it’s part to bring laughter to the world. There are many older shows that are fondly remembered, but I cannot think of another where you can simply say a single line out of context and still get a chuckle, if not an outright laugh. “We defy the Mafia!” “Hello, doll!” “Oh pa, can’t I even look at the purty man?” The list is figuratively endless. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 13. The Fun Girls from Mount Pilot returned on this date in 1964 in the episode titled “Fun Girls.” This episode is the only time Gomer and Goober appear onscreen together in the series. “Oh, Bernie!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 12. Happy Walk on Your Wild Side Day! Barney could turn on the wild side if he thought the occasion called for it. “I feel sorry for you, baby. You had your chance to fly with me but you wasn’t woman enough. Now the balloon’s gone up without you.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 11. “A Singer in Town” first aired on this date in 1966. Aunt Bee and Clara were not happy with Keevy Hazleton’s first version of their song, “My Hometown,” but enjoyed his second rendition. Keevy was played by Jesse Pearson who made his film debut as Conrad Birdie in the film “Bye Bye Birdie” (1963), a role he had previously played on stage in the road production of the popular Broadway musical. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 10. “The Inspector” first aired on this date in 1961. Maybe if Inspector Ralph Case had taken up Andy on his offer to take him fishing or frog gigging, they would have gotten off on a better foot. “Oh, Case, what was that phone call of yours all about? What’s the complaint here?” “Oh, yes, sir! I wanna report a chocolate birthday cake with candles, a gun went off… There were doilies on the chairs, and he was standin’ there wearin’ a polka dot tie! He… Yes, I saw him!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 9. Arthur Batanides was born on this date in 1923. Arthur played escaped convict Ralph Neal. Convinced the sheriff’s department needed more tools to fight this type of crime, Barney borrowed Blue, a hound dog he was convinced would be able to track Neal. Arthur had a 38-year career as a character actor that began in 1951, but he soon landed a semi-regular villainous role on “Rod Brown of the Rocket Rangers” (1953-1954), appearing in 53 of the show’s 59 episodes. He appeared as a character actor in nearly 150 films and TV series but is best remembered from one role at the very end of his career. Out of his last five roles, four were playing Mr. Kirkland in the “Police Academy” movies 2, 3, 4, and 6 (1985, ’86, ’87, and ’89 respectively). Arthur died in 2000. “There’s a convict on the loose. Didn’t ya hear about it on the radio?” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 8. “The Rivals” first aired on this date in 1963. Thelma Lou’s kindness to Opie, who is suffering a case of puppy love, made for some great dialogue, especially when Opie served as an intermediary on a phone call Barney was making to Thelma Lou. “Why go to the duck pond at night? You won’t be able to see any ducks… He really wants to speak to you.” “ You’re doin’ fine. Ask him again why he wants to go to the duck pond.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 7. Stanley Adams was born on this date in 1915. In “Deputy Otis,” Stanley played Otis Campbell’s brother, Ralph, who refused to believe Otis could have made anything of himself. With over 200 credits in film and TV over a 22-year period, Stanley was a popular character actor but also stayed busy as a writer for TV shows in the 1960s and early 70s. He wrote a half dozen episodes of “Mr. Ed,” four for “The Flying Nun,” and individual episodes for many series, including “Bonanza,” “Mannix,” “Star Trek,” “Daniel Boone,” and “Love, American Style.” Throughout his film career, he tended to play fast-talking, amiable characters. On television, he may be best known as galactic entrepreneur Cyrano Jones, who dealt in tribbles in “Star Trek” (1968). Stanley died in 1977. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 6. The episode that introduced us to Miracle Salve first aired on this date in 1964. In “A Deal Is a Deal,” Barney became Dr. Pendyke to solve Opie and his friends’ problem of not being able to return their unsold Miracle Salve. And, of course, Gomer became Opie Taylor, Sr. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - April 3. Happy National Tweed Day! When not in uniform, Barn preferred the ole’ salt and pepper tweed suit which was perfect for dipping! Barney was first shown wearing his salt and pepper in “Irresistible Andy.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 31. Happy National Tater Day! When Andy invited the Darling family men home for supper, each of the four boys always took more than their share when passing the serving plates so by the time each plate got to Briscoe it was empty. After the same thing had happened with the bread and after explaining to Aunt Bee, ““Oh, we’re known as a family of hearty-eatin’ men and beautiful, delicate women, ma’am,” when the potatoes were all gone when the plate reached him, he yelled, “Taters!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 30. “Divorce, Mountain Style” first aired on this date in 1964. Mayberry fans were disappointed not to see Hoke Howell in the role of Dud Wash which he originated, but CBS insisted that Bob Denver to play the role to give him more exposure as they were preparing to launch a new series called “Gilligan’s Island.” “If a rider dressed in black riding east to west on a white horse in the light of a full moon passes a bridegroom, he is cursed and the union is cursed.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 29. “Aunt Bee’s Invisible Beau” first aired on this date in 1965. Roughly once a season, a storyline was used concerning a possible romance for Aunt Bee. In this episode’s tag ending, Aunt Bee did seem interested to learn her new butter and egg man was a widower… “He buttered her up and she egged him on. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 28. Dean Webb was born on this date in 1937. He portrayed the mandolin-playing son of Briscoe Darling. A member of the renowned bluegrass band The Dillards who collectively played the Darling boys, Dean’s character name was inconsistent. The Darling boys usually were not referred to by name at all, but in their initial Mayberry appearance, Dean’s character was called Other (pronounced “oath-er”). In a later color episode, he was called by his real name, Dean. In the script for their debut episode, “The Darlings Are Coming,” the boys are all named though only Doug Dillard’s character name of Jebbin was used in the filming. While the script called for Dean’s character to be named Ward, when filming the hotel scene, someone suggested it be Other instead and that is what was used. The name Other was used as a tribute to “The Andy Griffith Show” makeup man Lee Greenway whose middle name was Other. Lee was a banjo and guitar player himself and would sometimes play along with the Dillards and Andy between takes. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 27. Mary Treen was born on this date in 1907. She was in the first scene of “The Andy Griffith Show” as Rose, Andy and Opie’s previous housekeeper who was leaving to marry resulting in Aunt Bee coming to live with them. Mary played another character in Mayberry later in the same season. She was Clara Lindsey, a supporter of Ellie Walker when Ellie ran for council and the woman who started the gossip chain that led to people thinking Barney had accidentally shot himself in the chest and died. Mary began her performing career as a vaudeville dancer, teaming up with a shorter partner in an act billed as “Treen and Barnett: Two Unsophisticated Vassar Co-eds.” She began acting in films in 1930. While she appeared in more than 40 movies, she may be best remembered as Tilly, the cousin of Jimmy Stewart’s character, in “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946). On television, Mary is probably best known on TV as Hilda, the maid and baby caregiver in “The Joey Bishop Show” (1962-1965). She married late in life and, after her husband died, eventually moved in with her former vaudeville dancing partner who was also widowed. Mary passed away in 1989. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 26. “Andy and Barney in the Big City” first aired on this date in 1962. At that point, Sheldon Leonard still insisted that Mayberry not be in a specific state even though other references made it obvious it was in North Carolina. As a result, the big city was called Capital City, not Raleigh. “Y’know, Andy, this where I really belong. Barney Fife…in the asphalt jungle.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 24. Gene Nelson was born on this date in 1920. Gene directed two Mayberry episodes in a row during the fifth season: “Goodbye, Sheriff Taylor” and “The Pageant.” Early in his entertainment career, Gene was a dancer, receiving a Theater World Award for his first Broadway role in “Lend an Ear.” He played Will Parker in the film musical “Oklahoma!” (1955), the acting role for which he is best known. After his dancing career ended he turned to directing. In addition to his directorial work on “The Andy Griffith Show,” Gene directed many other TV episodes, including 21 of “The Donna Reed Show” (1962-1965) and 18 of “The Mod Squad” (1968-1971). He directed episodes of “The Rifleman” (1961-1962), “I Dream of Jeannie” (1965), and “Star Trek” (1968). Gene directed the Elvis films “Kissin’ Cousins” (1964) and “Harum Scarum” (1965) and also wrote the screenplay for “Kissin’ Cousins” for which he was nominated for a Writer’s Guild of America Award. Gene passed away in 1996. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 23. Lillian Culver was born on the date in 1896. Lillian appeared only once in “The Andy Griffith Show” in a brief but important appearance. She played Barney’s mother whom Barney insisted on frisking at a roadblock. She does not fit the description of having a slight build that Barney always gave of her in later episodes. After giving up an unsuccessful career as an aspiring silent film actress for marriage, Lillian returned to acting and found success with dozens of appearances in films and TV episodes over a 13-year-career she did not begin until the age of 56. She appeared most often in “The Gale Storm Show: Oh! Susanna” (5 episodes between 1956 and ’60); in the role for which she is probably best-remembered, the recurring character Mrs. Schooner in “Dennis the Menace” (7 episodes, 1959-1963); and in “My Favorite Martian” (3 episodes, 1964-1965). Her last episode of “My Favorite Martian” was also her last role. Lillian was married to real-estate developer Harry Culver for whom Culver City is named and which was home to the 40 Acres backlot where Mayberry exteriors were filmed. Lillian passed away in 1999. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 22. “Opie’s Newspaper” first aired on this date in 1965. The one-sheet “Mayberry Sun” newspaper printed on Howie Pruitt’s printing press he got for his birthday caused a lot of concern for Andy, Aunt Bee, and Barney when the boys emulated the “Mayberry Gazette” after Barney told Opie, “You see now, Karen Folker may be hot copy for the fifth grade but uptown she don’t mean a thing.” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 21. Happy World Poetry Day! Poems played a role in Mayberry more than once (Who can forget “There once was a deputy called Fife, who carried a gun and a knife…?”), but a favorite has to be the poem Barney composed for his special someone on the side at the diner. The first stanza was: Juanita, Juanita, lovely dear Juanita From your head down to your feet There is nothing half so sweet As Juanita, Juanita, lovely dear Juanita #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 19. It’s National Certified Nurses Day! After Ellie Walker and before Helen Crump, Andy’s love interests were two nurses. In Season 2, it was county nurse Mary Simpson, who appeared twice and was played by two different actresses. In Season 3, it was county nurse Peggy McMillan who appeared four times. And in what is a fun coincidence, “The County Nurse,” the episode to introduce Nurse Mary Simpson, was actually first broadcast in 1962 on the same date that would eventually be chosen to honor certified nurses! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 18. The Darling family was first seen in the classic episode “The Darlings Are Coming” which first aired on this date in 1963. This episode marked the only time the Darling boys ever spoke on screen and they didn’t speak much! They only praised Aunt Bee for the beans she had made and said goodby as she left. “Oh, Pa! Can’t I even look at the purty man?” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 17. Happy Birthday to Aunt Bee! No, not Frances Bavier’s birthday, Aunt Bee’s. In the sixth season episode “Aunt Bee Takes a Job,” she says March 17 is her birthday. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 16. Happy Birthday to Joy Ellison, born on this date in 1953! Joy appeared several times In “The Andy Griffith Show.” In “Christmas Story” she was Effie Muggins and her parents were played by Sam Edwards and Margaret Kerry. Later that season, she was Mary Scoby and her parents were again played by Sam and Margaret! She also played Mary Wiggins in the black and white years and later made two appearances in the color episodes, in Season 7 as Betsy and in Season 8 as Iris. Joy continued to act until she was 20, making 10 other acting appearances with one being an episode of “Gomer Pyle-USMC” (1968). She acted four more times on TV in the 1980s, then performed four more roles between 2001 and 2009. In the 1990s Joy began the career in which she is still actively engaged, that of one of the top dialect coaches in Hollywood. Her first job was coaching Isabella Rossellini. Throughout her career she has coached Antonio Banderas, Brad Pitt, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and many others. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 15. J. Pat O’Malley was born in England on this date in 1904. Pat played con man Oscar Fields who very nearly made off with Mrs. Mendelbright’s life savings. Early in Pat’s career, he became associated with Disney, voicing Cyril Proudbottom in the animated shorts “The Wind in the Willows” and “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad” (1949). The following year he also began acting in television. He memorably played ranch steward Perkins in Disney’s “The Adventures of Spin and Marty” (1955) and “The New Adventures of Spin and Marty” (1957). Among his many other roles was the recurring character Harry Burns in “My Favorite Martian” (1963-1964), regular character building superintendent Mr. Bundy in the Connie Stevens series “Wendy and Me” (1964-1965), and recurring character Bert Beasley in “Maude” (1975-1977). He also played Rob Petrie’s father on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” (1982 and ’64) and Carol Brady’s father in the first episode of “The Brady Bunch” (1969). In addition to his extensive 40-year-career as a character actor, Pat is well remembered for his extensive voice work for Disney in films such as “Alice in Wonderland” (1951), “101 Dalmatians” (1961), “Mary Poppins” (1964), and “The Jungle Book” (1967). Pat passed away in 1985. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 14. Happy National Pi Day! While there is a separate National Pie Day and there are several days celebrating specific types of pie, this date has also become a day to celebrate pie since numerically the month and day is 3.14. So whether apple, possum, or hoot owl, enjoy your pie! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 12. “Aunt Bee the Warden” first aired on this date in 1962. With a full house in the jail, Otis fell under the stern control of Aunt Bee, or as he started calling her, Bloody Mary. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 11. Earl Bellamy was born on this date in 1917. Earl directed seven episodes of “The Andy Griffith Show” during Season 4. His episodes had a high percentage of classics, including “The Haunted House,” “My Fair Ernest T. Bass,” and “The Song Festers.” Earl was a prolific director and directed numerous films and over 1600 episodes of TV series. He won a Director’s Guild of America Award in 1954 for his work as Assistant Director on the film “From Here to Eternity” (1953). He directed all of the 24 episodes that made up the final season of “My Three Sons” (1971-1972). Earl was nominated for an Emmy for his direction of an episode of “I Spy” (1967). After retiring from a 51-year-career in directing, he became the Head of Production for Universal Pictures Television. Earl passed away in 2003. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 10. Michael Jeffers was born on this date in England in 1898. Michael appeared in “The Andy Griffith Show” in nine different episodes, usually just as a townsman, though in “Barney’s First Car” he was one of Myrt “Hubcaps” Lesh’s gang and in “The Jinx,” he was the man who picked up Leon. Michael began acting in film in 1936 in an uncredited role as a nightclub patron in “After the Thin Man,” and by the time of his last film appearance in 1979, he had appeared in more than 200 films and TV episodes as an uncredited extra. While he is not remembered as an actor, he is known for having been the president of the Screen Extras Guild in the mid-1940s who was upset that stuntmen and bit part players were also getting work as extras but the reverse was not true. He halted production of movies in 1945 for 24 hours by having extras refuse to work in protest. He continued to fight with the Screen Actor’s Guild over matters involving extras, earning a reputation as being difficult. Soon a letter was circulating implying he had ties to the Communist Party and was trying to damage the Screen Extras Guild for which he was advocating. Resultantly he received less work than normal. He filed lawsuits and fought in court from 1950 to 1958, winning at least one libel suit in 1954. Michael died in 1990. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 8. Alan Hale Jr. was born on this date in 1921. Alan played farmer Jeff Pruitt who came to town to pick out—and sometimes literally pick up—a woman to be his wife. Alan had a long acting career, appearing in well over 200 films and TV series. He played he title role in the series “Casey Jones” (1957-1958) and played the recurring character Sculley in the series “The Texan” (1959-1960). Of course, Alan will always be best known for his role as the Skipper on “Gilligan’s Island” (1964-1967), a role he played for the show’s three seasons and reprised in three TV movies and two cartoon versions. Interestingly, as Jeff Pruitt in “The Andy Griffith Show,” he called Barney “little buddy” just as he would later call Gilligan. Alan’s father, Alan Hale Sr., was a popular character actor who played Little John in Errol Flynn’s 1938 film “The Adventures of Robin Hood.” Alan passed away in 1990. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 7. Happy National Cereal Day! Cereal was a common part of breakfast in the Taylor household, which certainly is not surprising as the sponsor of “The Andy Griffith Show” was General Foods, maker of Post cereals. In syndication, the closing credits of the black and white episodes show a drawing of a lake in a corner of the screen. When broadcast, the closing credits originally showed a scene that was a bookend to the opening credits. Andy and Opie were seen walking away from the camera along the same country road seen in the opening credits while Opie carried the fish they had caught. In the corner of the screen where the drawing is in syndication, boxes of Post cereal sometimes popped up. (At other times the logo for other General Foods products were seen.) #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 6. Doug Dillard was born on this date in 1937. Doug portrayed the banjo-playing son of Briscoe Darling. A member of the renowned bluegrass band The Dillards who collectively played the Darling boys, Doug’s character name was inconsistent. The boys usually are not referred to by name at all, but in their initial TAGS appearance, Doug’s character was called Jebbin. In a color episode, he is called by his real name, Doug. Doug was not a traditional actor, but in addition to his six appearances on TAGS and in the TV movie “Return to Mayberry,” he played a banjo player named Clem in the Robin Williams film “Popeye” (1980) and one of the country band members in Bette Midler’s “The Rose” (1979). Doug passed away in 2012. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 5. March is Frozen Food Month! While having food frozen to keep longer can be cost-saving, it only works if your deep freezer does. Just call the man! #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 3. Happy National 33 Flavors Day! Celebrated on the third day of the third month (3-3), it is a day to celebrate ice cream. Most references seem to tie it to Baskin-Robbins though their original logo and catchphrase involved 31 flavors, meant to represent that you could try a different flavor every day of the month. In “Barney’s Physical,” Thelma Lou brings Barney a double-rich vanilla malted with two raw eggs that he can drink with a straw while he is being stretched. The shake was in a Baskin-Robbins cup with the 31 flavors logo and what were obviously the distinctive pink (cherry) and brown (chocolate) polka dots, though Mayberry is an unlikely town to have had such an ice cream chain location. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 2. The episode “The Shoplifters” first aired on this date in 1964. The episode’s writers Bill Idelson and Sam Bobrick won a Writers Guild Award for comedy writing for the episode. “The Andy Griffith Show” had won WGAs twice before. This was the third and final episode of the series to win the award. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - March 1. Happy Birthday to Ron Howard, born on this date in 1954! Ron first became widely know as Opie Taylor. Ron was an incredibly talented actor at such a young age as was clear in both his work in “The Andy Griffith Show” and in the films “The Music Man” and “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father.” As a television actor, he is also widely know as Richie Cunningham in the 1970s sitcom “Happy Days.” He starred in films such as the classic “American Graffiti” and “The Shootist” before making his directorial debut in “Grand Theft Auto.” That was followed by a long string of directing diverse films which continues to this day. His films include “Parenthood,” “Apollo 13” and “A Beautiful Mind” for which Ron won the Academy Award. He is also a hugely successful producer of films and TV shows such as “24” and “Arrested Development.” Ron has won the Academy Award for Directing, and has won Golden Globes, Emmy Awards, and just about every honor you can think of in his field. He received the National Medal of Arts in 2003 and is one of a select few to have two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one for his work in television and one for film. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - February 27. Howard Hesseman was born this date in 1940. Billed as Don Sturdy at the time, an alias he used for the first five years he acted and also used as a radio DJ, Howard made his television acting debut on “The Andy Griffith Show” in its final season as a counter boy who served up hot dogs and root beer to Goober and his braggart friend Roy Swanson. He later appeared in Mayberry as Harry whom Emmett tried to convince to vote for him by promising to stock the lake with big perch when he ran against Sam Jones for council. While still an active actor, Howard is of course best known as Dr. Johnny Fever on “WKRP in Cincinnati” (1978-1982). He also starred as Charlie Moore in “Head of the Class” (1986-1990). Howard passed away in 2022. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - February 26. In 1907 on this date the great character actor Dub Taylor was born. He appeared as four different characters in three different seasons of “The Andy Griffith Show.” In Season 1, he was Talbott the postmaster, in Season 3 Billy Ray the postman and later a circuit preacher used to mollify Ernest T. Bass, and in Season 8 Emmet’s overbearing brother-in-law who tried to convince Emmett to go into insurance. Dub also appeared in Andy Griffith’s film “No Time for Sergeants,” in which he played the local draft board representative sent to get Will Stockdale. Dub passed away in 1994. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - February 25. Gomer said, “Shazam!” for the first tike in “The Great Filling Station Robbery” which first aired on this date in 1963. “Shazam! Captain Marvel wouldn’t a thought of that, Barney!” #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory
Today in Mayberry History - February 24. We lost our treasured Don Knotts on this date in 2006. His obituaries and numerous testimonials offered about his life rightfully pointed out he was a major influence on many entertainers. And surely his performance in the classic “The Song Festers” is a wonderful example of his comedic talents. The episode aired on this date 60 years ago today. #mayberrybooks #libertygrovepress #todayinmayberryhistory