WNYW, a name now synonymous with the Fox Broadcasting Company's flagship station, has a rich history that dates back to its experimental roots in the late 1920s. Originally known as 2XAL, the station has undergone
numerous transformations, reflecting the dynamic nature of the broadcasting industry. This article explores the journey of WNYW from its inception to its current status as a major player in television broadcasting.
Early Experimental Days
WNYW's story begins in 1927 when it was first licensed as an experimental station under the call sign 2XAL. Operated by the Experimenter Publishing Company in New York City, the station's transmitter was located in Coytesville, New Jersey. This period marked the early days of radio experimentation, with stations like 2XAL exploring the potential of international broadcasting.
In 1928, the station's call sign was changed to W2XAL as part of a broader initiative to introduce international prefixes. However, the Experimenter Publishing Company faced financial difficulties and was forced into receivership in 1929. This led to a significant change in ownership and direction for the station.
Transition and Growth
In 1931, Walter S. Lemmon, a former engineer at WRNY, acquired W2XAL and relocated it to Boston, Massachusetts. This move necessitated another change in call sign to W1XAL, reflecting its new location in the first Radio Inspection district. Under Lemmon's leadership, the station began to focus on non-commercial, educational, and cultural programming, supported by charitable institutions and operated as a not-for-profit entity.
The station's programming was unique for its time, originating from a studio at Harvard University. It was the only educational shortwave station in the United States, setting it apart from the declining number of AM-band radio stations operated by educational institutions.
Wartime Influence and Modernization
The onset of World War II brought new opportunities and challenges for the station, now known as WRUL. With a large international audience, WRUL became a tool for British Security Co-ordination, broadcasting in multiple languages to support wartime propaganda efforts. The U.S. government leased the station in 1942 for further wartime broadcasts, highlighting its strategic importance.
Post-war, WRUL resumed independent programming and continued to evolve. In 1960, Metromedia acquired the station, and by 1966, it had adopted the call letters WNYW, standing for "Radio New York Worldwide." Despite attempts to commercialize, the station struggled with audience measurement challenges typical of shortwave broadcasting.
In 1974, the station was sold, and the WNYW callsign was eventually adopted by the Fox Broadcasting Company's flagship television station in New York City in 1986. This marked the beginning of a new era for WNYW, as it transitioned from its radio roots to become a cornerstone of television broadcasting.
