Chet Lauck and Norris Goff first met each other when both families moved to Mena, Arkansas in 1911. The two boys grew up together and soon began imitating the immensely popular "Amos and Andy". When scheduled to perform for a local charity program in Hot Springs, Arkansas, the two showed up claiming to be "Lum Eddards and Abner Peabody". This was the beginning what would soon become a hit show (History).

The Lum and Abner bit was received with such enthusiasm that Lauck and Goff soon signed a contract with NBC, obtaining Quaker Oats as the sponsor. Throughout their nearly 25 year career, Chet and Norris were endorsed by several other companies, including Ford Motor Co., Alka Seltzer, and General Motors. Their promotions did not end there, however. The Lum and Abner duo sparked interest in the "Silver Screen" as well, and seven separate movies were filmed starring the comedians.

By 1953 television had become one of the hottest means of advertisement, but health problems stopped Lum and Abner from expanding far into this media. On June 12, 1978 Norris Goff passed away, followed soon after by Chester Lauck in 1980. Although their genre may forever more be remembered as "Old Time Radio", it will surely always be remembered. Lum and Abner endorsed several products throughout their career, and entertained millions of fans. The Lum and Abner show will always be a part of both Arkansas, and American, history (History).