Rufe Davis (December 2, 1908 – December 13, 1974) was an American actor, comedian, and musician, a versatile Vaudeville veteran best known for his incredible ability to mimic animal sounds and train whistles, and for his role as Floyd Smoot on the classic 1960s sitcom, Petticoat Junction.
Born in Vinson, Oklahoma, Davis honed his unique vocal talents on the vaudeville circuit before heading to Hollywood. In the 1930s and 40s, he became a popular comedic sidekick in numerous B-Westerns, appearing alongside stars like Gene Autry and Roy Rogers. His musical and vocal novelty acts made him a memorable presence in these films.
He gained his widest and most enduring fame as Floyd Smoot, the conductor of the Hooterville Cannonball train on Petticoat Junction (1963-1968). The role was a perfect showcase for his talents, as he frequently entertained audiences with his remarkably authentic train whistle and animal impersonations, cementing his legacy as a unique and beloved character actor.
