WOC (AM) holds a distinguished place in the history of American radio broadcasting. As one of the oldest radio stations in the United States, it has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry. From its early days of experimental transmissions to becoming a charter member of the NBC radio network, WOC has been at the forefront of radio innovation.
Early Experiments and Licensing
The roots of WOC (AM) can be traced back to the early 1900s when Robert K. Karlowa began experimenting
with radiotelegraphy. By 1913, he was the chief operator of the Tri-Cities Wireless club, and in 1915, he was issued an experimental license for station 9XR. Although 9XR was never used for entertainment broadcasts, it laid the groundwork for future developments.
In 1921, Karlowa formed the Karlowa Radio Corporation and took over operation of 9BY, a station located in the Best Building in Rock Island. The station maintained a concert schedule and began broadcasting election results and promotional phonograph records. On February 18, 1922, WOC was officially licensed, marking the beginning of its journey as a public broadcasting station.
Technological Milestones and Network Affiliations
WOC (AM) was quick to adopt new technologies, upgrading to a 500-watt Western Electric transmitter in 1922. This allowed the station to move to a more exclusive frequency and expand its broadcasting capabilities. By 1924, WOC was recognized for its coverage and technical performance, making it a desirable station for network affiliations.
In 1927, WOC became a charter member of the NBC radio network, participating in national programs and events. This affiliation helped establish WOC as a leader in the industry, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality broadcasts to a wide audience.
Legacy and Modern Broadcasting
Throughout its history, WOC (AM) has been a trailblazer in radio broadcasting. It was the first station to broadcast from both houses of the Iowa Legislature and pioneered the use of a fader panel, allowing multiple microphones in the studio simultaneously.
Today, WOC continues to serve the Quad Cities area with a news/talk format, owned by iHeartMedia. Its legacy as a pioneering station remains intact, reflecting its contributions to the evolution of radio broadcasting in the United States.
