While June Lockhart eventually replaced Bea Benaderet as the "mother hen" lead on PETTICOAT JUNCTION, I remember that there were some episodes (before June joined the cast) where various "aunts" filled in for Kate in running the hotel.

Rosemary DeCamp appeared as one aunt, and Shirley Mitchell appeared in separate episodes as another aunt. These actresses seemed to have more of the "down-to-earth" qualities that Bea had (especially Rosemary), and they were also able to run the hotel.

It always seemed to me that these actresses' appearances were some sort of auditions for them to permanently take over Kate's spot on the show, but neither actress was signed on as a permanent regular.

Does anyone here know the story behind these "aunts"' appearances? Both actresses were veteran pros with years of experience....while nobody could ever fully take Bea's place on the show, it would have been nice (and would have made more sense) for either Rosemary or Shirley to replace Bea, rather than bringing in a glamorous doctor from left field.

Any thoughts on this?

I wished that show was shown again. It was corny but I LIKED it. Maybe Rosemary or Shirley didn't want to commit to many episodes. I think Rosemary was committed to That Girl playing Ann Marie's mother.