The Waltons - The Pony Cart with Beulah Bondi - behind the scenes with Judy Norton

www.judynorton.com Instagram - officialjudynorton
The Waltons - The Pony Cart episode. Beulah Bondi won a Primetime Emmy for her Guest Starring role as Martha Corrine in this episode. Known for her work in It's a Wonderful Life (with Ellen Corby), Mr Smith Goes to Washington and Our Town.
In this "Behind the scenes" - Judy Norton (Mary Ellen Walton) shares memories about filming this standout episode. What it was like working with Beulah Bondi - the 2 time Oscar nominee (Of Human Hearts and The Gorgeous Hussy)
Walton relative, Martha Corrine comes to visit the Waltons and pushes her opinions on the family causing friction amongst some family members. When John-Boy plans to return her to her home on the mountain, they detour to her old homestead where the secret she is hiding is revealed.
Ben spends time with Martha Corrine as he rebuilds a Pony Cart - which Martha Corrine tells him was known as a "Shay" in her youth. She helps him decorate the cart and then Ben takes her on the first ride.
Judy spoke with Eric Scott (Ben Walton) about his memories of working with Beulah Bondi and Judy shares those with you as well as the gift she gave Eric.
Many of you have asked for a video about this episode - I hope you enjoy!!!
#TheWaltons #ThePonyCart #BeulahBondi
• The Waltons - The Pony...

[@movieprod]

FOR HER PERFORMANCE IN "THE PONY CART" BEULAH WON THE EMMY FOR: OUTSTANDING ACTRESS FOR A SINGLE APPEARANCE IN A DRAMA OR COMEDY SERIES 1977

[@jasonwigood1174]

wow, I didn't know that

[@jeffking291]

@@MJAP123 And she definitely was❗️ 📻🙂

[@darrelljohnson1319]

wish we had actresses like her today but they are all gone modern TV totally sucks all the shows pushig a Big political agenda of great evils no family values

[@rah62]

We know. Judy included it in the video description. PS: Stop shouting.

[@philliesphorever1964]

How wonderful❣️⚘️

[@sheilamiller91]

You are completely right about talking to people. Senior Citizens are walking history books.

[@judynorton2598]

Absolutely

[@janeiwasduncan8463]

My dad was at Pearl Harbor and loved talking to school kids about his experience during the attack...so many WW 2 vets are gone, but the vets of Korea are still with us as well as Viet Nam ..respect them🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@Kagaines]

I would love to talk with my fam that’s passed some more.

[@johnscherer376]

The tears came down my face at the end when she passes away. A wonderful episode for young and old to watch together!

[@lynnselmser-wilson4493]

Mine too.

[@elainehott9303]

I loved Beulah Bondi. She gave her family pieces of their past. They would always look at the Pony Cart and the Spinning Wheel and be able to remember this strong loving woman. 😍😍😍

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@bsn2ndsflatdavis378]

I also liked Bondi in that 2 part episode when she and her family lost her home up on the mountain for a highway . Powerful acting on her part there .

[@judynorton2598]

Yes! The Conflict.

[@davidjohnson7850]

Even though you missed the opportunity to ask Beulah Bondi about her history, you are certainly making up for it by sharing your history and stories with a new generation. That will last forever.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you. I hope so.

[@pattim8036]

This was a great episode. Beulah Bondi was great. Her character was so spunky and sassy.

[@Scott__C]

Yes, it was like having another Grandma in the episode!

[@judynorton2598]

Yes, she was.

[@josephjakubec3171]

Even as a young child , I always sought out and talked to the very old people. My step grandfather was in WW 1. His stories were so interesting. I never understood why people seek out the young. They haven't experienced anything in life. I feel fortunate that I have those memories and that those people were kind enough to share their history with me.

[@judynorton2598]

You are a wise person.

[@ericluriergo8251]

YOU are absolutely right!!

[@jhamp244]

When I was in a coma in icu, I thought I was sleeping in that pony cart. When I woke up and tried to tell people, they had no idea what I was talking about, but I knew, it was the pony cart from the waltons.

[@cinrambrad]

That is a semi-weird dream............

[@jhamp244]

@@cinrambrad yeah, it was, but I felt comfortable and safe there. I tried to ask I guess the nurses why I was in the pony cart, but no words would come out, so I just snuggled down and went back to sleep.

[@kathyk8310]

That was a sweet dream. That episode must have been memorable for you.

[@jhamp244]

@@kathyk8310 i guess so, it still makes me feel warm and cozy when i think about it. When i woke up, i tried to figure out what would have made me think i was in that pony cart, i have no idea. I always liked that side of the walton family and Martha corin did remind me of my hillbilly grandma. Slatt bonnet, apron and all.

[@shirleymiller4219]

Interesting. Had you recently watched the episode of the pony cart when you had this dream?

[@ehhjeep]

When we are young we don't think about history. When we get older we learn that history has something to teach us all.

[@Scott__C]

Yeah, we don't even think about next week. ;)

[@davelewandoski4292]

That's because when we're young we know it all, are immortale! Then life shows us the truth.

[@jeffking291]

Beulah Bondi was an Icon. Her acting career lasted some 80 YEARS ❗️she was a first class Master actress ❗️ I have several movies with her. Another great video on another great episode. 📻🙂

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed.

[@garyjohnson5892]

Other than "The Homecoming", this is my favorite . This is a top quality storyline and acting by Beulah Bondi.

[@m.e.d.7997]

Loved her scene in the house talking about Henry and their wedding day. She was able to take you right back and feel her sadness.

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@dorothyd4160]

I cried during that scene.

[@johnallen310]

I know what you mean. I wish I had asked my grandparents more questions while they were still here or write down the stories they told.

[@douglas_drew]

I believe everyone has at least one book to write; Your own life story. It will pass on memories of earlier generations for future generations to better understand, which is probably why I so loved The Waltons. Write what you remember and pass it on.

[@johnallen310]

@@douglas_drew My grandmother kept a diary from 1939 until her death in 1962. I read a little bit everyday.

[@douglas_drew]

@@johnallen310 Oh how I wish I had such a precious keepsake!

[@judynorton2598]

I hear you on that.

[@davelee8961]

@@johnallen310 Now that is a treasure!

[@Examinernc]

I loved this episode. Martha Corinne called the pony cart "The Shay." I also liked her adding all that pepper to the sausage and Grandma's frustration. When John Boy bit into it, his reaction was priceless and he said it was the best sausage he'd ever had. A friend recently went to Schuyler. She sent me a picture of the Shay and asked could I identify it which I of course could. Beulah Bondi was also in an episode of Perry Mason, another favorite show. Please keep them coming Judy. They make me smile during turbulent times in the world.

[@judynorton2598]

Glad you are enjoying.

[@angelaowens2911]

I watched the Pony Cart episode, again, today. It means so much more to me now at 61, than it did as a teenager in the 70’s. I cried like a baby this time as she reminded me of my 94 year old mother who died several years ago. June, 2021.

[@christiandilks7595]

The actual Pony Cart is on display at the Waltons Musuem. I took a picture of it on my visit in September.

[@judynorton2598]

Yes! That is great.

[@cathyfisher7894]

I did not know about the museum

[@jakesingerman9257]

Beulah won the Emmy for this episode and retired afterwards.

[@shirleyleone799]

Didn't know that. Well deserved award.

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

Beulah Bondi died in 1981, the same year that The Waltons ended

[@watchman1178]

@@JohnClifford4567jwc I just looked up her bio. She died from complications from a fall. She actually tripped over her cat. 91 years old, I believe.

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

@@watchman1178 My paternal grandmother, the last of my grandparents, was just under 3 weeks from age 92, when she fell and broke her hip, and went in to shock. Everyone agreed "it's time", and she died 2 days later. I can imagine the same thing could have happened when Beulah fell. My mom, who was a former nurse, even said my grandmother's bones might have snapped and caused the fall.

[@judynorton2598]

Well deserved Emmy.

[@lindabakmaz81]

I relate to Martha Corrine now. I too feel that the world I grew up in is gone, and I find myself trying to hold onto it. Family stories are a great anchor. I was lucky to have a close relationship with my mom, so I asked questions and I took her stories in. And I pass those stories on to my nephew, who doesn't know anything about his grandmother and great-grandmother. He listens, while staring into his phone, of course. Beulah made this character her own--she was fierce. Great actress.

[@Scott__C]

My mother's been gone for more than 10 years. I didn't really appreciate her until I was an adult, but at least we got there. Ask him to help you make a web page and put all the info on it, then he can get the info on his phone. ;)

[@lindabakmaz81]

@@Scott__C I'll just hand over all his grandmother's stuff when the time comes! That will keep him busy for years.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for sharing.

[@larrywjohnson]

I admit it, I cried at the closing of this episode.

[@cherylatkinson7479]

One of my favorite episodes loved the ones with Martha Corrine. Her painting the pony cart and having Ben let her off to pick the daisies and looking up towards the sky and smiling. Great performance by Ms. Beulah Bondi. Thanks Judy

[@Swampzoid]

"don't go over 5 miles per hour" LOL

[@anastasiabeaverhausen8220]

Beulah Bondi's appearances on The Waltons were among the finest guest star appearances I ever saw on any series in all the 60 plus yrs. I've been watching tv. I've never forgotten them. I just see a photo of her as Martha Corrine and I get all teary. Poignant is the proper word for describing this episode and her performance. Thank you for recollecting and graciously sharing it with us.

[@judynorton2598]

My pleasure.

[@yuvegotmale]

She was such a great actress....loved her in Its a Wonderfull Life and her episodes on the Waltons. When she made the hot peperie sausage that made you break out in sweat and when she moved into the new house and was amazed at how a switch turned on the lights. Thank you Judy for showing homage to a wonderfull lady.

[@shirleyleone799]

Beulah Bondi was indeed a wonderful actress. She left an exceptional legacy of work in film and television.

[@franceshurley3168]

Wooh! That's the best sausage sandwich l ever ate! I think I'll have another one. What John Boy said. I hope it's close enough to original quote. I love hot spicy sausage. Love The Walton's and all the cast. Thanks Judy.

[@judynorton2598]

My pleasure.

[@johncampbell4585]

I actually found t r recipe for that Virginia sausage and make it all the time. Come to think of it, I’m due to make it again, lol. I even grow my own sage.

[@davelee8961]

@@johncampbell4585 Remember to put enough pepper!!!

[@dougmorris9317]

The moment I saw 'Pony Cart' in the title, I dropped what I was doing to watch this--thank you Judy, this was kind & wonderful. This was also my favorite Waltons episode, and hearing the story of Eric asking for her autograph...gosh it made me cry. You guys are all pretty special.

[@judynorton2598]

So glad you liked it.

[@movieprod]

THE PONY CART... so lucky to have worked this episode, and so many memories it would take a book! For the homestead grave work we drove the 90 miles from Warner Bros. to the top of Mt. Pinos above Frazier Park, CA...the location, in the trees around the 5,000 ft level. A long way to go for production...very costly...and it would prove to be...well worth it. When I look at the work completed that day, the coverage, the absolutely brilliant performances, well, I am amazed...not surprised considering the talent assembled..just amazed these 44 years later. At lunch, Beulah asked me to fix a plate for her which I did, along with one for myself. We found a shady place among the trees and shared a few very precious moments together, sharing mostly about family...it was fortunate that, at the time, I was unfamiliar with her illustrious past, or I would have bored her to death with questions about Bette Davis, Jimmy Stewart, etc, etc...Google Beulah Bondi! After lunch, it was discovered the headstone for Henry's grave (absolutely critical) had been left back at the studio, and although I was just in DGA Training, I felt guilty...still do... why hadn't I checked before leaving? ....and our director was, to put it gently, disturbed. Here we were at the top of Mt. Pinos, in the middle of nowhere, 2 hours from the studio... no cell phones...only beepers in those days...if you don't know what a beeper is, Google it. We couldn't shut down and come back another day! What to do??!!...to the best of my recollection (and director Ralph Senensky's) Ed Graves, our Art Director, commandeered a van, sped down the mountain, found a lumber yard in the town of Frazier Park, jig-sawed a headstone out of a sheet of pine, painted it gray, and sped back up the mountain. I cannot recall if Ed painted HENRY WALTON on it or not....either it had no lettering, or the lettering Ed had done was unacceptable to Ralph...either way, If you notice in the scene, we either see the back of the headstone or when we reverse to the front Martha Corinne is blocking the view of it. A later revealing shot was done with the original stone on an embankment of the backlot. As we prepared the two-shot of Beulah and Richard where Martha Corrine has her attack, Ralph asked me to stay by his side to the left of the camera as he expected the scene to be something very special...and it was...even now I get goose-bumps recalling Beulah's collapse and her grabbing the headstone to keep from falling...I did my best not to gasp while we were rolling. I also recall Richard was recovering from a badly sprained ankle that day...take a look at his rush to the creek to fetch water for Martha Corrine...no way you can tell...and never a complaint from Richard, and forty years later I appreciate Richard even more. And the scene where Martha Corinne dies...well that moment was so real when we shot it I was in tears. And the script...pure heaven from our beloved Earl.

[@shirleyleone799]

John thank you for sharing this wonderful behind the scenes look at what happened during the filming of this episode. You were indeed fortunate to have worked on this particular episode. How very cool that you had the opportunity to have lunch with Ms. Bondi. Thanks for sharing your insightful look back!

[@movieprod]

@@shirleyleone799 Thankyou, Shirley...I carry the experience I had on the show with me to this day...a very high standard for a young guy in his 20's, and I love each and every one of them!

[@judynorton2598]

John, thank you so much for sharing your memories with everyone. You were fortunate to have that time with her and smart enough to make the most of it. Please continue to share with us all.

[@robinpankey2495]

John what an amazing story. Did you work on anymore of the waltons episodes? Thanks

[@chipsntrees]

thank you for sharing that...I've seen this episode numerous times, it was only last Nighy when watching it again I noticed when John boy was promising he wouldn't tell anyone about her condition, he quickly looked directly toward the camera and winked!! I rewound to make sure ..and yup...he winked! what was going on behind the scenes that Richard snuck this in?

[@davidbailey2884]

Have tears just watching this wonderful tribute by Judy Norton

[@VoodooCrab]

I didn't know Martha Corrine was Ma Bailey in It's A Wonderful Life! I looked and yep, that's her! What fun!!! Thanks for sharing that!

[@morristinehunter9091]

Ellen Corby played the little woman at the bank that asked for a very small amount of her money when there was a bank rush! I don't remember her name! Anybody remember Ellen's name in the movie?

[@cooper79jeffr]

@@morristinehunter9091 Ellen's character in the movie was Ms. Davis. You're welcome!

[@karolinesmail489]

Mrs Davis cannot get 17.50

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for watching.

[@darkavengermanowar]

She was also Ma Smith in Mr. Smith Goes To Washington another great Jimmy Stewart movie

[@chriskane8625]

Powerful episode that should remind us all to seek the wisdom of those who have come before us .... oh how I wish I could have just one more conversation with my Grandpa. Thanks Judy for all you are doing to take us into the World of the Walton's. If you don't get another one completed before Thanksgiving .... Happy Thanksgiving!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you... and there will be videos next week - including a special Thanksgiving one with surprise guests :). Hope you’ll tune in.

[@chriskane8625]

@@judynorton2598 I'll have a front row seat .... the Walton's Thanksgiving Special is a tradition and should be required viewing by everyone! The world could use it! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family from my family.

[@macecrawford2860]

@@judynorton2598I was just reading this. I will look forward to that video too. Happy thanksgiving to you. You are a wonderful person.

[@TheGuyMullins]

It is really cool that David W. Harper "Jim Bob" found the cart... it makes me happy knowing that all you guys love taking part with the museum and giving time to Virginians that truly love the show... you guys are to Virginia to what Andy Griffith is to North Carolina and ME? "I AM CAUGHT IN BETWEEN!"

[@Scott__C]

I'm hopeful in the post pandemic world, they will all gather for another event there.

[@judynorton2598]

Our pleasure.

[@rwnordmark]

This truly was a beautiful and touching story.

[@mariegarrett5204]

This was by far one of the BEST episodes! Such a tear jerker. Beulah’s performance was incredible. So natural and convincing. I cried like a baby at the end.

[@judynorton2598]

I understand. Definitely a stand out performance that won Beulah Bondi and Emmy.

[@rickeyjenkins5969]

One of my many favorite episodes!💜💜💜

[@donmartin7460]

You can’t stop progression......just watch a child develop and grow........crawling,walking and running. We learn new things every day whether we want to or not. 🦋

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@alicebellotti1084]

She played Jimmy Stewart's mother in It's A Wonderful life... Wonderful actress!!!

[@GaryMeadowsMusic]

I knew she looked familiar.

[@janeiwasduncan8463]

She played Jimmy Stewarts mother in a few other movies. She also was in " A Summer Place". ⭐⭐⭐

[@OfficiallyEvita]

Both her episodes were powerful. When she was leaving her home on the mountain, Earl Hamner’s commentary brought tears to my eyes. Both her episodes were so moving

[@judynorton2598]

She really did bring a wonderful depth to the episodes.

[@zodszoo]

While I subscribe to a number of KZbin channels, yours is one I try to watch immediately, with eagerness.

[@tashalynn29]

Same here!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much. that makes me happy to hear.

[@anitastodolak9882]

That is sooooo true! I look forward to them always! I grew up with the Waltons and they are my "happy place" as i've said so many times before. Especially now. Watching it makes me feel comforted and brings me so much peace

[@lisad476]

This is one one favorites. Makes me cry everytime. It reminds me of older relatives I knew as a child. Great great episode.

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for watching :)

[@rachelotremba8100]

I really like this episode. I especially liked the scene where Martha Corinne is painting Ben's pony cart and he looks really unsure of it at first but as she keeps painting, a smile grows on his face. I love what you said, Judy, about how you wished you would've talked to Beulah Bondi more and how that relates to our lives and talking to older relatives while they're still with us. And a super fun fact about Will Geer's ad lib! Love that! Another great video, and thanks again for making these. I love them!

[@judynorton2598]

I agree... a standout episode.

[@juliemaven212]

I loved when feisty Martha Corrine was on the show.

[@seanwhite2814]

Another GREAT episode!! Miss Judy hindsight is 20/20 You're a very smart person to recognize the " what if's" Don't let it bother you! To me NO ONE could have played Mary Ellen any better than YOU! You're an incredible artist!

[@johnharris7751]

I loved how she wouldn't let Erin run out the door after her horn honking date until he came to the door like a man and she has a chance to check him out.

[@seanwhite2814]

@@johnharris7751 me too! That was the custom... should still be the custom!

[@johnharris7751]

@@seanwhite2814 I've always told anyone blowing thier horn in my driveway that I answer doors not horns then I go back in the house

[@seanwhite2814]

@@johnharris7751 That's a policy to live by! That should be the custom standard still today! Society has lost their manners! Sad commentary but a true one!

[@alicebellotti1084]

I asked my grandmother questions all the time, my mother too... They taught me alot...

[@judynorton2598]

I love that. Good for you.

[@nitashadow2860]

I don't know why but at a young age this episode made me cry so much. I never had anyone die in my family and the Walton's we're my family night... Keep them coming. From Lutz, Florida

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for watching,

[@duncanfarrell3909]

Beulah was an amazing actor... her scene with John Boy at the end of the episode called the conflict is a master class in acting 👍

[@judynorton2598]

Absolutely.

[@sarahjane5997]

I love this episode. It never fails to bring me to tears each time I see it. The first time my sister and I watched it together, we both sat there quietly during the whole episode. Thank you for the behind the scenes of one of my favorite episodes.

[@tammyanderson6776]

I loved this episode

[@davidschlecht3016]

Waltons mountain had a real way of communicating a message and Martha corrine was especially touching in looking at her past and trying to meld the future was exceptionally well done.

[@judynorton2598]

Well said.

[@sherryhettinga5416]

I think every generation wants to hold on to the way things were. We all know we can't but the desire is always there. Love it that you pointed out both Ellen and Beuhla's connection to It's a Wonderful Life. Another great video Judy!!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@patricialangford5380]

Hi Judy, I grew up with The Waltons I love every episode. There is not one I don't love. This one was a beautiful story it taught me to respect and care for our elders. We can learn so much from them. Beulah Bondi was a great actress I really enjoy watching her. Thank you so much.

[@judynorton2598]

Thanks for sharing.

[@gabriellestable8945]

I’ve seen Beulah Bondi on It’s a wonderful life movie! She so young and beautiful! 💖

[@cjjenson8212]

The phrase you're looking for is... "youth is wasted on the young" 😊

[@redrooster1908]

you're

[@onefatstratcat]

@@redrooster1908 did that make you feel better? :)

[@DearlyDepartedTours]

@@redrooster1908 exhausting.

[@judynorton2598]

Ahhh... sad but true in things like this.

[@vintagehomemaker9338]

"Hindsight is 20/20" as the saying goes. It's great that you're taking the time to point out that there is knowledge and wisdom to be gleaned from our elders. We should treasure the time that we are able to spend with elderly folks. P.S.- Would also love to see you share about "Maude Gorley".

[@julienielsen3746]

Yes. I'd like her to do one on "Maude Gormley" too. Merie Earle was so sweet being interviewed on Johnny Carson. Love her and the goat Myrtle.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much. Yes, I will touch on Maude.

[@stevencohn39]

love to see richard come and join you just once on these episode recollections!

[@Buka5194]

One of my favorite episodes. She always brought such a powerful strength of family and history to every episode. By the time was a recurring actress on The Waltons, she had already had a successful big screen career.

[@judynorton2598]

Such an honor to have her as a guest star.

[@dumbbo1]

Beulah could lower or raise the temperature of a scene with her expression. Watch her carefully in It’s A Wonderful Life. It’s sunny and 75 when she’s smiling in “Bedford Falls”, but her scowling “Pottersville” version is icy and below zero. Interestingly, she played Martha Corinne sort of halfway in between. Tough on the outside, but once you get to know the character you realize she knows she has but a few days left and wants to share some of what she’s learned before she goes. The scene where she scrutinizes the fellow who comes over to take one of the girls out starts out rather uncomfortably, but instead of ending in a disaster (ala Marilyn Munster), Martha Corinne subtly lets him know that although the Waltons enjoy listening to the latest Swing music on their cathedral radio, they are still a tight knit and proper family, and any stray thoughts he may have are best kept in check.

[@judynorton2598]

So true. Thank you for sharing.

[@jcos6762]

I remember the two part episode where she doesn't want to give up her land to developers and Johnboy gets shot.

[@MiltonGoinsHome]

"I wore lilac. And he smelled of Bay Rum." I was a little child when that episode came out and I still remember that line. I didn't know what Bay Rum was, but there was something moving about how she said it.

[@shirleyleone799]

And the scene where Martha Corrine infant son and husband were buried. She tells John Boy neglected graves were a terrible thing. Ms. Bondi was a pro and knew how to deliver a line.

[@shirleyleone799]

Need to correct my earlier reply. The correct line was neglected graves were a shameful thing.

[@johnharris7751]

That episode reminded me of when the Adirondack northway was going through my grandmother's house in the mid sixties.

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

The Show brought back each of the family members featured in "The Conflict". "The Pony Cart" was the second of the follow-up episodes. It takes place after "The Estrangement", where Wade and Vera Walton return to the mountains, with Wade promising to build his own home, for him and Vera, and their son. I don't remember if Wade and Vera are mentioned in "The Pony Cart". "The Moonshiner" came later, for Morgan Woodward's character, Boone Walton, to have his final performance (mentioned that he was killed, later on, while wandering the hills near Walton's Mountain)

[@bjohme6624]

The Pony Cart is my favorite episode. I've watched it several times and I'll watch it several times more.

[@Multi1mark]

Wow how nice that Director was in getting Beulah Bondi's input. That was smart of the director to honor her in that way. Thank you again Judy for all your comments on the Pony Cart episode.

[@daverindone655]

I think of this episode every time I visit my Nephew's resting site in the mountains of New Hampshire. "A neglected grave is a shameful thing." It makes me make sure that everything looks clean and in order before leaving. He would have been 35 today, kind of fitting that you posted this video.

[@judynorton2598]

Beautiful.

[@LilyGazou]

💐. I’m sorry for your loss. When I was back home recently, I visited the graves of my family members. I left rocks painted to look like flowers, butterflies and ladybugs. I just got a letter from my father’s wife - she wrote that she knew I had been there when she went to leave flowers for their anniversary. I painted a large rock for them some years ago so they would always have bright flowers by the door even in winter. She left it at his grave but- someone stole it. So..... I left a whole box of painted stones with my family so they can leave visiting “cards” for the ancestors.

[@janeiwasduncan8463]

@@LilyGazou I wish I could do that to my parent's grave site but they are in a National Cemetary. It gets a wreath at Christmas ( wreaths across America).. Flags on July 4th and Nov.11.

[@1burnman]

This was an incredible episode Beulah Bondi was something else incredible Judy

[@m.e.d.7997]

Great subject to cover~~Beula Bondi.

[@dbear6179]

That episode always makes me cry when I watch it. It is probably my favorite episode.

[@TheGuyMullins]

You really take care of us... thank you for this surprise. I loved being around my elders and hearing their stories.

[@theresagosselin2705]

Loved her in A Summer Place

[@janeiwasduncan8463]

Thank you for remembering that movie.

[@theresagosselin2705]

Loved that movie hard to believe all those stars are dead

[@judyhaynes5156]

I loved this episode. I cry every time I watch it.

[@debrawaite7173]

This is probably my favorite episode. She reminds me of my grandmother. My grandma wore those bonnets also. She was born in 1898. I wish I had talked to her more about her younger years.

[@judynorton2598]

Such a fascinating time in history, so many stories they experienced.

[@rogerangress9983]

Yes, this was probably one of the Walton's apex of the best of episodes. Very touching, moving & amusing in that special time now nearly 43 years ago when this first aired on CBS on Thursday evenings. "I don't want too be dead before I die!!!" "Where's Johnboy???" "In my time, a man's word meant something!!!" "Come on in, sit (their,)we're listening to Swing" when she was ready to go home as she gazed up to the Lord. That was poignant. Earl Hamner, fantastic wonderful storyteller The original Johnboy Walton. Very precious background narration. The Walton's was beyond poignancy; the Walton's was truly what life is about. Memories that will never end ever....

[@judynorton2598]

Well said.

[@jambs86]

We need to record the history of our senior citizens and learn history from their point of view.

[@m.e.d.7997]

As Betty White has proved for sure a few years back so many of us are better as we age.

[@morristinehunter9091]

You're so right Julie Moody! My mother lived to be 100 and we video taped her talking and answering questions about our history! Priceless stuff!!!

[@docadams7099]

I remember as I grew up that I'd have these long conversations about the past with my grandparents, my parents and other relatives. They loved to tell stories and I liked hearing them. My brothers, sisters, and I were blessed to have grandparents living close by. They would come see us every Sunday afternoon. Then, in 1974 they moved into our neighborhood. My other grandparents lived in Florida but they would see us when possible.

[@judynorton2598]

They have such wonderful stories to share.

[@jambs86]

@@judynorton2598 My mom grew up during the time of period of The Walton's and she said that was the way it was for her family

[@cyndiamorton658]

I loved everything of Miss Bondi’s that I have ever seen! Marvelous actress!

[@dgtwo3724]

My personal favorite episode. I felt John Boy understood me personally with his desire to learn his family history.

[@judynorton2598]

Beautiful.

[@mikeelnaugh7190]

Beulah Bondi as martha corrine i thought her perfomance in that episode was really good

[@m.e.d.7997]

You were young Judy, you didn't know. She was such a great actress though for sure! I admire her as an adult because I now know.

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you.

[@theresagosselin2705]

Love this actress Beulah 💕💕💕

[@shirleyleone799]

A consummate professional!

[@davidbailey2884]

Amazing actress and an outstanding episode. Loved Beulah Bondi as Martha Corrine Walton xx

[@karendegraaf1146]

Loved this episode, especially. Was aware Beulah Bondi had played Jimmy Stewart's mom in several movies, and loved the natural rapport that came from their scenes together. Ms. Bondi also shines in her guest starting role on The Waltons.

[@julieloofbourow3042]

I love this episode. The passing of knowledge from one generation to another. All you actors are so well matched, and each added player complemented the entire cast, even if just for one show. Thank you for sharing your delightful memories with all of us!

[@judynorton2598]

My pleasure.

[@carolynjacobson190]

I loved this episode. Her personal strength always came through in the character that she played. I think the episode itself was done very well because she knew she was going to die and she chose not to die alone which I think just made the episode itself and I like the the scene between her and John boy when she says you told didn't you great great episode thank you very much Judy!!!!!

[@judynorton2598]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@cowboycar8]

Hey, Judy! Stencil is what we use in the Monument industry as well. Cool to see it was used on the Pony Cart! I also wish I had picked the brains of some of the legends of my industry that I worked with over the years. I've worked with people who produced monuments in old time, hammer and chisel fashion, and did so with amazing talent and beautiful results. It is all mechanized today. I was totally unaware of who Beulah Bondi was back when I first saw this episode. Now I know. You talk about people with such a true sweetness that is SO refreshing. You are truly a lovely person. It is an honor for me to be able to write some words to you. Thanks, dear. Miss you, Mary Ellen!!

[@judynorton2598]

You are very kind. Thank you.

[@fh8606]

Such a beautiful lady! I loved the episodes with her in them. Thanks Judy. See you next time 💙

[@kaygilbert5570]

Judy, I absolutely love your channel. Thank you for all the wonderful background knowledge of the making of the show. Beulah Bondi was fantastic as Martha Corrine. She really made the character come to life. ♥️

[@donnajones2642]

I loved this episode Martha keron was dienig and she wanted to spend some time with the only kin she knew she was a beautiful painter I loved what she did to the pony cart

[@tammytoro3936]

What I remember as well is the shay was also used in the episode the ordeal, so that Elizabeth could have some fun even with her limited mobility. I also thought that was a nice touch.

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

I remember that, too: the Baldwin sisters arranged it for Elizabeth

[@eddielane9569]

I hope one day to be able to go see The Waltons Museum.

[@keithr5031]

Oh this is a great episode! Loved the beautiful Cart and how it appears when Elizabeth can’t walk.

[@aj402]

I’m glad y’all brought that episode up. I thought Elizabeth rode in that cart to go see the healer.

[@amandastoeppel9224]

Hello Judy!! This is one of my most favorite episodes!!

[@daleoneil4270]

I love this one too. I loved Martha Cornin.

[@cinapoowee7582]

This was and still is my favorite episode! I especially loved when John Boy came in for a sausage sandwich....whoa it's hot! Takes a drink of milk and says "this is the best sausage I ever ate" and takes another. I was raised by my grandmother (dad walked out before I was born and my mother died when I was 8). She taught me so much. And so many stories of our family. She would be 106 now but she's been gone over 40 years. I treasure my memories. I am so grateful that she raised me.

[@judynorton2598]

That's wonderful.

[@benzflynn]

My main takeaway from this episode is Martha's old tie-down bonnet. Ain't seen one of those for a bit !

[@janeiwasduncan8463]

I went to co!!ege in a rural area in the 60s. On Sat. we would go into town to buy what wasn't available on campus. It was also the time farmers and their families came to town. Many of the older women wore those bonnets!!!!. 🌷🌷🌷🌷🎈🎈🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@benzflynn]

@@janeiwasduncan8463 Sounds like rural Pennsylvania. But tell me, Janei - what was it that you couldn't 'buy' on campus and went lookin' for downtown . . . . 🌷

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

I noted that it used to be that women always wore hats after they reached a certain age, especially in High Society; a scene that was cut from James Cameron's TITANIC showed Kate Winslett's character, Rose, throwing her own hat overboard. Martha Corrine might have been holding on to that tradition. When I re-read one of Agatha Christie's later novels, At Bertram's Hotel, I understood Dame Agatha's comments about how times had been changing, through the observations of Miss Jane Marple. That included a statement about Miss Marple's grandmother realizing that nobody was wearing the type of bonnets that she owned, and that she got rid of all of hers, after that.

[@descendantsofgrayskull1914]

It's old people like her who fascinates me and as a carer I drained as much knowledge as I could from them. I'm certain she appeared in earlier episodes of the Waltons. Thank you for the video x

[@judynorton2598]

Yes, she was also in the two part episode The Conflict.

[@davidshowmaker4408]

My wife's grandmother is 91 and she does Genealogy on her family and I could sit a listen all day to her talk

[@judynorton2598]

I bet! Great to know more about who and where you came from.

[@jbw53191]

Ms. Norton, I truly appreciate how all of your segments reveal very positive memories and insights of your time on The Waltons, especially when you reveal character traits of the actors you worked with. It's a refreshing change from some actors who might just want to "give us the dirt" on actors with whom they worked. Thank you, again, for these segments.

[@judynorton2598]

My pleasure. Thank you.

[@brendaschafer429]

Thank for your memories of the Walton’s, it really was a heartfelt show, Im grateful for knowing of it and grateful of you for sharing it. This may sound crazy but it was a safe space for people to go back to, to feel that love of family, where all that love energy and faith resides, nothing could breakdown that wall!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you for watching.

[@shirleyleone799]

Best line from Martha Corrine to Olivia When they were in the garden " time to go pack my plunder" . Beulah Bondi became Martha Corrine Walton. Judy you were indeed fortunate to work with Ms. Bondi. She was a gifted actress. Thanks for the deep dive on one of my favorite episodes! 😎

[@rosscook6632]

That line, “time to go pack my plunder” reminded me of my Grandma who had these quaint little lines she say that always stay with me. I’d ask her what she was doing she say, “well I’m doling the easy ones twice” or if I was down she’d look at me and say, “don’t be hard on yourself honey there’s enough of the people in the world that’ll do it for ya” and if it looked like everything was falling apart she’d say, “oh I’ll bet the sun will come up tomorrow”. These little sayings helped me understand my world through her wisdom.

[@shirleyleone799]

@@rosscook6632 Hi Ross. Thanks for your reply. I had never heard that line before until I heard it on the Waltons. I do love it and it's obviously stayed with me all these years. Take care and thank you.

[@stevejarrettnc]

Also worth mentioning, from Wikipedia: Bondi made her final appearances as Martha Corinne Walton on The Waltons in the episodes "The Conflict" (September 1974) and "The Pony Cart" (December 1976). She received an Emmy award for Outstanding Lead Actress for a Single Appearance in a Drama or Comedy Series for her performance in "The Pony Cart" (December 1976), her final career screen performance. When her name was called, it first appeared that she was not present, but she received a standing ovation as she walked slowly to the podium, from which she thanked the audience for honoring her while she was still living. She passed away on January 11, 1981, at age 91

[@judynorton2598]

Wow. Thanks for sharing.

[@ConnieCC58]

That was a lovely episode. I read that Ms. Bondi received an Emmy award for her performance in The Pony Cart. Thank you as always for your insights Judy 💗

[@judynorton2598]

Yes, she did. So well deserved.

[@katiedepietro6070]

:**Waltons Strong💪💪💪💪💪🌟🌟🌟🌟❤❤❤❤

[@patrickwaslicki7958]

I think you should talk about The Townie, and Sissy Spacek

[@judynorton2598]

Great suggestion.

[@patrickwaslicki7958]

@@judynorton2598 You could also talk about Nicholas Hammond who was in that same episode and the episode called The Substitute.

[@bettykirkland9107]

The pony cart was Beautiful episode about Martha Corrine i enjoyed listening to her tell stories about some of her life when she was young. ❤️🙏

[@forthehaulofit]

Ohh David Harper! How awesome! Crying happy tears

[@katiedepietro6070]

**:Judy Is So*:Polished**:Like a Shiny Morning Star🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@brookehanley3659]

Wonderful speaker.

[@BR-kk9qu]

She definitely is! She has done so much in her career... so much more than Mary Ellen!

[@judynorton2598]

Thank you so much

[@katiedepietro6070]

@@judynorton2598 You're Very Welcome Judy🌟🌟🌟

[@deedeegreen8338]

Thank you for posting this, Judy! This is my favorite episode of the series. I had never seen Beulah Bondi, before and I was blown away by her talent. I love small moments, in films and TV. When Martha Corinne was painting the cart, it must have looked tedious to young people, but it showed how much dedication Martha Corinne had in everything she did. I learned a lot about death, in that episode. I remember crying my eyes out, not because Martha Corinne died; I cried joyful tears simply because she "lived". I feel like crying all over again. It's funny, isn't it, how a TV or film character can have such an impact on us. I'll never forget the character of Martha Corinne.

[@judynorton2598]

So true.

[@carolm3468]

Just finished watching the Pony Cart again. Absolutely one of the best episodes. You were all so blessed to work with Beulah Bondi.

[@judynorton2598]

Such an honor to work with her. She was remarkable.

[@wyominghome4857]

I haven't yet watched The Pony Cart episode, but my husband and I just watched Bondi's earlier Waltons episode The Conflict. Many of her "mom" roles didn't give her the opportunity to fully express her range as an actress, but watch The Conflict. Like Geraldine Page in The Trip to Bountiful, Bondi has to tread a fine line between being an annoying and cantankerous old woman and being vulnerable to her sense of overwhelming loss. It is a magnificent performance. What an actress.

[@judynorton2598]

Well stated. It’s no wonder she won an Emmy for her role as Martha Corrine in The Pony Cart.