Andy's Many Talents

[SarahBellum]

In addition to fulfilling the duties of Sheriff and Justice of the Peace (both requiring him to be on call 24/7), Andy also managed to find time to perform in the choir, band (as band leader no less), barbershop quartet and bowling team. He was a competent guitarist able to jump in and play along with the Darlings, Jim Lindsey and others. He organized his high school class reunion, briefly operated a laudramat and even delivered a baby for Quiet Sam's wife. Yet he was stiill able to devote quality time to his son Opie. It makes you wonder how he found the time to court Miss Crump.

[biffbronson]

He was also good at skeet shooting, which is logical because of the need for proficiency with firearms in his job as sheriff. Target shooting at a rifle range is oftentimes a regular requirement for law enforcement officers so that they don't become rusty.

And in addition to his guitar skills, he was good at making a long peel when peeling apples.

[GentlemanJim]

Not to mention becoming sheriff only 7-8 years after graduating high school....yet we never have any mention (or flash backs) of Andy as Deputy.

I guess being the star has certain privileges.

[Mayberry'sBadBoy]

Originally Posted by GentlemanJim

Not to mention becoming sheriff only 7-8 years after graduating high school....yet we never have any mention (or flash backs) of Andy as Deputy.

I guess being the star has certain privileges.

One theory is that Andy started working in the Mayberry Public Works and was made Sheriff by whoever was Mayor in 1953 (The year Barney was given his service revolver) due to Fred Pailey (Andy's predecessor) being incompetent to the point of allowing things like Freiberger the sewer inspector give out tickets to people like Barney's father. Given Andy had a jovial view of Freiberger, Fred Pailey is never mentioned, and Andy has shown knowledge for public works projects, it would make sense that a special election was held to make Andy sheriff bypassing deputy given the competence he displayed. It also would explain why Barney is so strict with law enforcement because he remembers what Mayberry was like under Pailey.

[vitoscotti]

Andy is the master problem solver and quarrel mender. He can outwit fellow cast mates or use psychology unbeknownst to them and tidily solve or fix everything miraculously right before the episode ends.
Like with con man Jackie Coogan and his wife tried to get a breach of promise settlement out of playboy Barney and Andy started reading the marriage vows. Also, Floyd's rent squabble with Howard he outsmarted the combatants, Goober's contest where Goober is locked up to pull at Floyd's heartstrings. And many more examples.

[Alan Brady's Hair]

Aunt Bea said that Andy's education was worth every penny, which led me to conclude that he was some sort of college man.

[Zoneboy]

So many talents, but he can't cook.🍳

[GentlemanJim]

Originally Posted by Mayberry'sBadBoy

One theory is that Andy started working in the Mayberry Public Works and was made Sheriff by whoever was Mayor in 1953.

"One theory" e'hhhh? LOL! Which episode was that scripted in?

[GentlemanJim]

While I am familiar with the "Pinkley, Paley, Buckley" order of succession prior to Taylor assuming the throne, and even learned that Blake was the Sheriff over in Mount Pilot...I must have missed the episode that relates Andy's "pay to play" relationship with the mayor. Perhaps that was the episode that describes Thelma Lou's manner of income, as well?

[vitoscotti]

Originally Posted by Mayberry'sBadBoy

One theory is that Andy started working in the Mayberry Public Works and was made Sheriff by whoever was Mayor in 1953 (The year Barney was given his service revolver) due to Fred Pailey (Andy's predecessor) being incompetent to the point of allowing things like Freiberger the sewer inspector give out tickets to people like Barney's father. Given Andy had a jovial view of Freiberger, Fred Pailey is never mentioned, and Andy has shown knowledge for public works projects, it would make sense that a special election was held to make Andy sheriff bypassing deputy given the competence he displayed. It also would explain why Barney is so strict with law enforcement because he remembers what Mayberry was like under Pailey.

Interesting topic and theory. If Andy was next in line to a deceased in office sheriff he could take over as interim sheriff. But, mayors don't appoint sheriffs, they're elected. Would of been an interesting spinoff "Andy the Early Years" showing his then wife, family and town's people.

[SarahBellum]

Originally Posted by Zoneboy

So many talents, but he can't cook.��

Well, he managed to cook his meals when he went camping on his vacation, although we don't know how well it turned out. But it smelled good enough to entice the prison escapee.