Ep 13. Uncle Joe Plays Post Office

Uncle Joe Plays Post Office is the thirteenth episode of the third season of Petticoat Junction, a classic American sitcom that aired from 1963 to 1970. Set in the fictional town of Hooterville, the show revolves around the lives of the Bradley family and their friends at the Shady Rest Hotel.

In this particular episode, Uncle Joe (played by Edgar Buchanan), the lovable and scheming uncle of the three Bradley daughters, hatches a plan to cash in on the Christmas spirit by posing as a postman. He convinces the local store to let him set up a special mailbox where people can send their Christmas wishes to Santa Claus, promising to deliver them personally to the North Pole.

However, his plan starts to unravel when the store owner's granddaughter, a smart and curious little girl named Cindy (played by Janet Craig), becomes suspicious of Uncle Joe's motives. With the help of her friend, the shy and bookish Bobby (played by Keith Taylor), she starts to investigate Uncle Joe's activities, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming misunderstandings.

As the episode progresses, we see Uncle Joe struggling to keep up his charade while dealing with Cindy and Bobby's meddling. At the same time, the Bradley family is busy preparing for Christmas, with Kate (played by Bea Benaderet) and the girls making holiday decorations and preparing a special feast for their guests.

Despite the chaos caused by Uncle Joe's scheme, the episode is ultimately about the power of community and goodwill. As the residents of Hooterville come together to celebrate the holiday season, we are reminded of the importance of family, friendship, and generosity.

Throughout the episode, we also see the trademark humor and charm of Petticoat Junction, with its colorful cast of characters and quirky small-town setting. From Uncle Joe's antics to the Bradley sisters' hijinks, the show is full of laughs and heartwarming moments that capture the spirit of the holiday season.

Overall, Uncle Joe Plays Post Office is a delightful and entertaining episode of Petticoat Junction, showcasing the show's blend of humor, heart, and small-town charm. Whether you're a fan of classic sitcoms or just looking for some holiday cheer, this episode is sure to put a smile on your face.