[citation needed] The series took place in the fictional small American town of Springdale.
The series co-starred Kathleen Freeman as Mayor Russell's housekeeper, Marilly, and his ward, Butch, was played by David Saber.
[1] Planning for the program began in 1951, calling for Lionel Barrymore to reprise his radio role as the title character.
[3] The Los Angeles market was an exception, as broadcasting of the series there began in 1956 with sponsorship by Richfield Oil.
[4] John Rawlins and Marshall Grant were the producers and directors; Erna Lazarus was one of the writers.