The run-down exterior of the train depot, seen in the climax of the story, was the original structure on the 40-Acres lot for the famous train depot scene in Gone with the Wind (1939), 30 years earlier. Over the course of the Griffith series it can occasionally be seen distantly down at the far end of Mayberry's main street.
In this episode, Farley Upchurch wants to get Barney's picture for the newspaper. Andy says to Barney, "Farley wants to get the picture. By tonight 2000 loyal readers will know Barney Fife's back." Showing further evidence that Mayberry has at least 2000 citizens.
The story in this episode is very similar to season 1, episode 30 "Barney Gets His Man." In each episode, an escape criminal comes back to Mayberry to seek revenge on Barney. In both episodes, Andy sets Barney up for the capture and for being the hero, also to restore his confidence.
Frank Caddy plays Farley Upchurch here. Caddy was a popular character actor throughout the "rural comedy" era. He also appeared in "The Real McCoys," "The Beverly Hillbillies," "Green Acres," and "Petticoat Junction."