New York’s two main broadcasters were slowly expanding their programming as September 1941 began. WNBT and WCBW resumed Saturday broadcasts, and the NBC station even aired a broadcast on a few Sunday afternoons.
The only other major story that month was the sign-on of the Philco station, WPTZ, on the 1st. It quickly signed a deal with Atlantic-Richfield to air play-by-play football.
Even though the U.S. had not entered the war, the Treasury Department was pushing Americans to buy War Bonds and Stamps. WNBT aired a special broadcast with patriotic songs, Arthur Treacher and the ubiquitous Grover Whalen.
There’s very little news available about the other stations; DuMont was still putting W2XWV through test transmissions in New York.
The listings below come from a number of different newspapers, including the Brooklyn Eagle.
Monday, September 1, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00 to 11:00—Amateur Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—“Boys in the Back Room.”
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—“Men at Work.” Variety with Adia Kuznetzoff, baritone; Jan and Janis, dancers; Tana, songs; Reid and Mack, acrobats; Three Blue Jackets, tap dancers; Al Bernie, comedian.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 30. – Town's first commercial tele broadcasts will start Monday (1) . W3XE, experimental station operated since 1932 by Philco Radio & Television Corporation here, was granted a 60-day commercial license by the FCC. For 15 hours a week flying photos will be transmitted over an approximate 25-mile radius from Philco's 230-foot transmitting tower. Programs will include mostly playlets, variety shows and newsreels. In addition, mobile tele unit will pick up athletic events, parades and public meetings.
Present power of station is 3,000 watts, but will be stepped up to 10,000 watts, according to chief engineer David Grimes. E. N. Alexander is station manager. Paul Knight comes in from WPEN here as announcer. Philco, since 1926, has been on the air a total of nearly 8,000 hours with studio programs and special events. At present there are an estimated 400 television receivers in the area, most of them Philco's own experimental sets. (Billboard, Sept. 6)
Since this indicates a policy at variance with that of NBC, which has permitted Adam Hat Stores to distribute to the 800 bars and grills with television sets in the New York area posters advertising the fight telecasts sponsored by Adam Hats on WNBT, NBC television station, BROADCASTING asked CBS for an explanation, receiving the following statement from the CBS television department:
"We feel that during the formative years of television we must reserve all rights in our programs to protect the future of television against detrimental precedents. As requests are made for permission to use our programs for other than home reception we shall consider each case individually." (Broadcasting, Sept. 1)
Tuesday, September 2, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test Pattern.
2:30—“Nickelodeon” and film varieties.
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—Zeke Manners’ Gang.
9:30—“Play the Game.”
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Dancing lesson.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
9:00—“Personalities in Sport.” Bob Edge interviews Ruth Aarans, table tennis champion, and Ralph D. Palmer, UP radio sports editor.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films
Wednesday, September 3, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Racing at the Aquaduct.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—Film: “On the Farm.”
9:30—Film: “Walk, Do Not Run.”
9:45—Film: “How to Use Your Camera.”
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News Report.
2:45—“Table Talk.” Helen Sioussat interviews Harper Sibley, Lawrence Phillips, Dr. Floyd Ruch, Bill Slocum Jr.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—Visual quiz program.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
Thursday, September 4, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Film: “Eve of the Revolution.”
3:15—Film: “Children of Africa.”
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Film: “America Outdoors: Archery.”
9:30—Mary Sutherland, comedienne.
9:40—“Current Events in Art” with Helen Appleton Reid.
9:55—News with Ray Forrest.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
3:15—Children’s Story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Sports with Bob Edge.
8:30 to 9:30—Country Dance.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
Friday, September 5, 1941WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—“Radio City Matinee.”
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Spinning Wheel Singers.
9:10—Ireene Wicker’s Tele-Whizzes [picture to right].
9:40—Harvey Harding, songs.
9:50—News with Kent Cooper [Herald Tribune says Sam Cuff].
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Film.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Harvest Moon Ball Winners [Herald Tribune says National Defense Program].
9:00—Sports with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
Saturday, September 6, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Aqueduct Races.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Hendrik de Leeuw, travel talk.
9:30—Ted Steele and Betty Randall, songs.
9:45—One-act Play: “The Artist.”
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 4:30—Films.
Monday, September 8, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00 to 11:00—Amateur Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—“Boys in the Back Room.”
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—“Men at Work.” Variety show.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
AS PART of a program to acquaint Chicagoans with television as a medium and box office attraction, Balaban & Katz Corp., Chicago theater chain and operator of television station W9XBK, started daily television demonstrations Sept. 8 on the mezzanine of the B & K Chicago Theater. Six telegenic hostesses will invite persons to be televised, and six receivers bave been installed in individual booths. The promotion is under the direction of William C. Eddy, B &K Television Director. (Broadcasting, Sept. 15)
The Philco Radio and Television Corp., C and Tioga sts., announced yesterday [8] that its new commercial television station has been given the official call letters WPTZ under authority of the Federal Radio Commission. (Philadelphia Inquirer, Sept. 9)
Tuesday, September 9, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
8:15 to 11:00—Football: Brooklyn Dodgers vs. Chicago Bears at Ebbets Field.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Dancing lesson.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
9:00—“Personalities in Sport.” Bob Edge interviews Red Cochrane, boxer.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films
Wednesday, September 10, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—“Radio City Matinee,” with British Refugee Children; Christopher Rule; Sarino.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—“Stars of Tomorrow” with Nick Kenny.
9:30—“Thrills and Chills” with Doug Allan and Harold McCracken
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 22:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News Report.
2:45—“Table Talk” with Helen Sioussat. Topic: “Should the United States Establish a Governmental Propaganda Bureau?” Panel: William L. Shirer, Graham Munson, Dorothy Dunbar Bromley, Sydney Herzenberger.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—Visual quiz program.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
An NBC television fashion show yesterday [10] of knitted wear for British children served notice that Bundles for Britain plans to turn young people all through the United States loose with knitting needles within the next few weeks.
After models of snow suits and V-neck sweaters had been paraded by representatives of Bundles for Britain’s junior membership, participants, including two daughters of Mrs. Wales Latham, president, of the organization, indicated that this was a task the young folk really take to.
That boys are going to participate was affirmed by Paul Freeman, 13, of Forest Hills, who already has knitted a scarf, two army caps and an army helmet and is balling the yarn for a flier’s helmet, in which, he explained confidently, “you have to remember to leave holes for earphones.”
“I get kidded a little,” he admitted, “but I figure boys can do this as well as girls, and that it’s worth it, don’t you?”
Alastair Kyle, 10, also of Forest Hills, a British refugee, directed the show, but balked at the knitting part, explaining earnestly that his “out-of-school” time was completely consumed these days in a pastime growing in favor among these youngsters. “I need all my time to draw my maps of how the war’s coming,” he said.
The campaign, introduced by Mrs. Latham, is to be carried throughout the country with the assistance of stores and shops in which special instructions will be given for knitting the special garments wanted. (New York Times, Sept. 11)
NBC and Columbia are now spending between $1,500,000 to $2,000,000 a year on television. NBC, operating on a commercial license, has a budget of nearly $1,000,000 and, with five regular sponsors, has a gross income of around $50,000-$75,000 a year from commercial programs.
CBS declines to reveal how much it is spending a year, but indicates the amount is not much less than NBC's budget. Since it has only a construction permit for commercial operation, CBS has no sponsors as yet and therefore no income. But it claims to have several sponsorship requests.
There is still wide divergence in estimates of the number of television receivers in actual operation in the New York area. NBC officials say their surveys have shown there are 4,500 sets in private homes and 600-odd in public places, mostly cafes and bars. They expect these figures to be doubled by next Jan. 1, they assert. CBS officials estimate there are between 3,000 and 5,000 sets in the area, inclusive of private homes and public spots, but that not many of these are adjusted to the new television channels. CBS men are pessimistic about future sales, at least for some time, mostly because of the situation in metal priorities.
NBC's five present regular sponsors are Adam hats, Botany mills, Bulova watches, John David haberdashery, and Bloomingdale's and Abraham & Strauss department stores. Television hourly rates are $120 from 6 to 10 p.m. daily, $60 from 8 a.m. to 12 noon daily, $60 from noon to 6 p.m. Monday-through-Friday, $90 from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, $90 from 11 p.m. to sign-off daily. One-minute spots are $8 from 6 p.m. to sign-off and $4 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hourly service charges are $150 for large studio, $75 for small studios, film studios or field pickups. There are other charges for additional services or facilities. Both NBC and Columbia operate 15 hours a week, as required by the FCC.
NBC Staff Cut
Before the FCC side-tracked television activity last year, NBC had 96 full-time employees in the department. It now has about 70. Alfred H. Morton is vice-president in charge of the department, with Noran E. Kersta assistant in charge of sales and general coordinator. Thomas H. Hutchinson is program manager and Robert Shelby is television engineer under O. B. Hanson, NBC vice-president and chief engineer. There are five television program producers, but their names are not being announced until arrangements can be made to handle actor applicants who would otherwise inundate the premises. James McNaughton is television scene designer.
There are no regular television writers as yet. The producers do some of the scripting, assisted by members of the regular NBC writer staff. In the actual televising of shows, everything in front of the camera is handled by the program people, while the engineering department has charge of what goes on in back of the camera lens. That, of course, is merely a broad general rule. NBC's equipment consists of three cameras in the studio, two for film televising, two on one mobile unit and two on a portable unit.
NBC programs include studio-produced plays and special visual commercial shows, plus such outside events as fights, ball games and other sports.
80 on CBS Staff Columbia has more than 80 full time employees in its television department. Adrian Murphy is executive director; Gilbert Seldes in charge of programs; Dr. Peter Goldmark, chief television engineer, and Leonard H. Hole, manager of television operations (more or less a coordinator between program and engineering). Entire executive setup, like that at NBC, is much more fluid than in regular broadcasting.
CBS emphasizes this fluidity particularly in the directorial phase of its television work. Officials explain that with everyone admittedly groping his way in television, no one yet knows what form direction will take or how far it will go. Various members of the staff do directing work at times, frequently shifting over temporarily from other duties. Worthington Miner, legit stager, is head director for the company, with Phil Booth and Seldes also doing considerable work. Others of the technical staff include Edward Anhalt, cameraman and assistant director; Rudolph Bretz, cameraman and assistant director; Steve Marvin, assistant director; Richard Hubbell news announcer and assistant director, and Robert Bendick, cameraman.
Columbia has two cameras in its single studio, which, incidentally. Is several times the size of NBC's and affords much greater scope for camera mobility, etc. CBS has had remote television cameras and equipment on order for a year, but has been unable to get delivery. Unlike NBC, it airs no plays or what it calls 'fiction' shows, but confines itself to news programs, vaude bills, individual acts and such shows as dance instruction and the like. Columbia has done considerable experimentation with and airing of color television. (Variety, Sept. 10)
Thursday, September 11, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Chronicles of America Film: “Declaration of Independence,” commentary by J. Raymond Hutchinson.
3:15—Film: “Colombia, S.A.”
3:25—Film: “Plaster Sculpture.”
3:35 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—“Music Miniatures” with Jerry Sears.”
9:20—“Words on Wing.” Paul Wing, spelling bee.
9:50—News with Ray Forrest.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
3:15—Children’s Story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Sports with Bob Edge.
8:30 to 9:30—Country Dance.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
Friday, September 12, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Racing at the Aquaduct.
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—“Going South,” musical comedy
9:30—“You’re An Artist,” with Frank Eliscu.
9:40 or 9:45—Harvey Harding, songs.
9:50—“Face of the War” with Sam Cuff.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Film.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Harvest Moon Ball Winners [Herald Tribune says National Defense Program].
9:00—Sports with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
Saturday, September 13, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Aqueduct Races, including the Beldame Handicap.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Whispering Jack Smith’s previews.
9:30—View and Description of Jonker’s Diamond and Vargas Diamond.
9:40—Opera Workshop, “Manon.”
9:55—News with Ray Forrest.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 4:30—Films.
Sunday, September 14, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:30—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Air Meet, Newark Airport.
Monday, September 15, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00 to 11:00—Amateur Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—“Boys in the Back Room.”
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—“Men at Work.” Variety show with Equille and Marcelle; Gloria Parker, songs; Sue Reed, songs; Indian Dances.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
ALL BUT ONE of the teams of the National Professional Football League have signed with individual stations for [radio] coverage of their games this season, and most of the stations have already signed sponsors....
Exclusive television rights to all home games of the Dodgers at Ebbetts Field have been awarded to WNBT, NBC's video station in New York, and will be presented on a sustaining basis. (Broadcasting, Sept. 15)
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Film: “When Dreams Come True.”
2:45—Film: “A Mother’s Influence.”
3:00—“Dizzy Heights and Daring Hearts.”
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—Colony Opera Guild: “Faust.”
9:30—Billiard Highlights, Frank Copeland.
9:40—To be announced.
9:50—News.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Dancing lesson.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
9:00—“Sports Workshop” with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films
COMMERCIAL television facilities in Philadelphia, Los Angeles and Milwaukee were authorized last Tuesday [16] when FCC issued construction permits to Philco Radio & Television Corp., Earle C. Anthony Inc. and The Journal Co., publisher of the Milwaukee Journal.
The Philadelphia grant to Philco was for Channel No. 3 (66,000 to 72,000 kc.). The new station replaces Philco's former experimental station, W3XE, which has been operating commercially under a special authorization using the call letters, WPTZ, pending the granting of the new commercial television facilities.
Earle C. Anthony Inc. licensee of KFI and KECA, Los Angeles, who also was issued a construction permit for a Class C FM station at the same meeting received the Los Angeles video construction permit. Channel No. 6 (96,000 to 102,000 kc.) was assigned. Completion date was set for Jan. 15, 1942.
The new Milwaukee station was authorized to The Journal Co., licensee of standard broadcast station WTMJ and its FM adjunct, W55M. The grant was for use of Channel No. 3 and was subject to certain engineering requirements with completion date set for Oct. 27, 1941. (Broadcasting, Sept. 22)
FCC Applications, Sept. 16
WRGB, Schenectady—Reinstatement CP commercial television station Channel 3.
Wednesday, September 17, 1941WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—“Radio City Matinee” with Li Ling Ai; Perry Martin, Christopher Rule; Richard Kent.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—Ted Steele [photo to right] and Betty Randall, songs.
9:10—“Current Events in Art,” Helen Appleton Read.
9:25—Zeke Manners’ Hillbillies
9:55—News.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News Report.
2:45—“Table Talk” with Helen Sioussat, interviews.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—Visual quiz program.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
Alice Dowd will be the guest to be interviewed at the opening of Christopher Rule’s television matinee on Station NOV [sic] today from 2:30 to 3:30 o’clock. This is the opeing of a series of interviews with women in business.
Mrs. Dowd will show three costumes designed by Lorna Whittingham, of California. (Women’s Wear Daily, Sept. 17)
Thursday, September 18, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Film: “Yorktown”; Major George Fielding Eliot.
3:15—Film: “The Land of the Wends” (1937). Alwyn Bach narrates the legend of gnomes and sprites who make their home along the River Spree, accompanied by Schubert’s “Autumn.”
3:25—Film: “Gimme Some Skin” (1940) with the Delta Rhythm Boys.
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
5:00—Fashion Discoveries.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Hendrik de Leeuw, travel talk.
9:30—“Play the Game.”
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
3:15—Children’s Story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Sports with Bob Edge, interview with John Hightower.
8:30 to 9:30—Country Dance.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
'FASHION DISCOVERIES' With Wynn Price, Ruth Hopkins, Peggy Read
30 Mins.
BLOOMINGDALE'S
Thursday, 5 p.m.
WNBT-NBC, New York
(Norvian Waters)
It has long been anticipated that fashion displays would be a natural for television. It remains a plausible anticipation of things to come. Meantime the fashion show pioneered Sept. 18 over NBC by Bloomingdale of Manhattan, and Abraham & Strauss, of Brooklyn, merely felt its way tremulously and self-consciously.
Handled as a 'Five o'clock Party' in a private home, there were a few rather silly efforts at characterization. Punch concerned a theatrical first night, for which the stylish ones were eager to pet tickets and all of them failing. In the end the dumb maid got a call from her boy friend who had ducats to the big opening. Land. (Variety, Oct. 8)
ANNOUNCED with large display space in the New York Times, Fashion Discoveries of Television, first commercial fashion show on television, got under way last Thursday afternoon on WNBT, New York. Departing from the usual style show manner, the telecast was a dramatic comedy, whose plot gave an opportunity for girls to pose in new dresses. Series is sponsored by two department stores, Bloomingdale's in Manhattan and Abraham & Strauss in Brooklyn, and placed through and produced by Norman D. Waters & Assoc., New York. Series will be telecast each Thursday, 5-5:30 p.m. for a 13-week test. (Broadcasting, Sept. 22)
The husbands won’t be overjoyed. . . but pretty soon the women will be attending fashion shows via television. Yesterday [18], under the auspices of two great department stores, a new sponsored series of fashion programs, “Fashion Discoveries in Television,” made its debut before NBC’s camera (WNBT-5). Introduced by Ira D. Hirschmann, store executive, and with Peggy Read as commentator, the telecast portrayed at five o’clock party. It was in the form of a deftly done little playlet, with inconsequential chatter and tuneful music. Among those present were the Four Singing Harry Conover models, Wynn Price and other beauties. The gals among the viewers must have ooh-ed and aah-ed at the fetching costumes displayed. But this ignoramus got his greatest kick out of the good-looker who wore them! (Ben Gross, Daily News, Sept. 19)
Friday, September 19, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 or 2:45—Fashion Pageant: “Styled for Defense,” under the auspices of the U.S. Treasury Dept. at Rockfeller Center.
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—Ireene Wicker’s Tele-Whizzes.
9:30—Alfred Mann and Edith Weiss Mann, music.
9:40—Harvey Harding, songs.
9:50—“Face of the War” with Sam Cuff.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Film.
3:15—Children’s story.
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—To be announced.
9:00—Sports with Bob Edge, interviewing Carl Loveday, badminton player.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
The New York State Committee for the Sale of Defense Bonds and Stamps used spectacular showmanship yesterday afternoon [19] in presenting the first, big event of its selling campaign at the Promenade Cafe in the Sunken Plaza of Rockefeller Center. With the co-operation of the National Broadcasting Company, the committee drew upon American couture and the talent of the American stage, screen and radio to produce “Styled for Defense,” the first outdoor style show ever televised. The fifteen penguins which have been in the Promentheus [sic] Pool since Aug. 15 were shunted into the background and the distracting fountain display was shut off, as invited guests, most of them women, seated themselves in the plaza, and the strollers craned their necks on four sides above. A band station complement from Fort Jay on Governors Island, under the baton of Sergeant Andrew Zaniewski, played from a stand in front of Treasury ouse.
The program consisted of patriotic songs and sales talks for the defense bonds and stamps interspersed with showings of gowns, suits and accessories. Arthur Treacher, better known as the Jeeves of stage, screen and radio, was master of ceremonies during the first part of the program. Lucy Monroe sang “The Star Spangled Banner,” Conrad Thibault, “Arms For the Love of America,” and Barry Wood, “Any Bonds Today? Renee Rochelle wound up the proceedings with: “God Bless America.”
Colonel Richard C. Patterson jr., chairman of the New York State Committee for the Sale of Defense Bonds and Stamps, told the audience: “Remember when you buy defense savings bonds and stamps, you don’t spend money. You make a profitable investment. You buy a share in America!”
Grover A. Whalen, chairman of the board of the Coty International Corporation and gasoline co-originator for New York, spoke on behalf of Retailers for Defense. Bert Lytell, president of the Actors’ Equity Association, read an excerpt from President Roosevelt’s address of April 10, opening the defense bond-and-stamp drive. John B. Kennedy, radio news commentator, also spoke.
The fashion creations, included originals from the recent showings of New York’s top-flight houses, littered with jet, sequins and jewels from Paul Flato and dripped black and silver fox, natural ranch mink and Himalayan marten.
The fashion show of twenty-four costumes opened with a daytime ensemble from Jay Thorpe. Mrs. Douglas Fairbanks sr., the former Lady Ashley, brought the display to an end in a creation by Hattie Carnegie.
Other houses which participated in the show were Saks Fifth Avenue, John Wanamaker, H. Jaeckel & Sons, Mary Lewis, Bonwit Teller, Porter’s, Arnold Constable, Charles LeMaire, Lilly Dache, Stein & Blame, Bergdorî-Goodman, Russeks Fifth Avenue, B. Altmann, Henri Bendel, Nicole de Paris, Lord & Taylor, Lanz of Salzburg, R. H. Macy, Milgrim, Jane Engel, The Tailored Woman and Town & Travel Wear, Ltd. Vyvyan Donner was the commentator. (NY Herald Tribune, Sept. 20)
Saturday, September 20, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Belmont Races, including the Lawrence Realization.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 4:30—Films.
Sunday, September 21, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
3:30—Football: Brooklyn Dodgers vs. Detroit Lions at Ebbets Field.
Monday, September 22, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00 to 11:00—Amateur Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—“Boys in the Back Room.”
3:15—Children’s story: “Hansel and Gretel.”
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—“Men at Work.” Variety show with Paul Draper, dancer; Mary Sutherland; Billy and Ann Tyus, dancers; the Martels; Marshall and Manfield.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
Tuesday, September 23, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—Film: “Vincennes.”
3:15—Film: “Remnants of Frontier Life.”
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—“Stars of Tomorrow” with Nick Kenny.
9:30—“You’re An Artist,” Frank Eliscu.
9:40—Opera Workshop: “Il Trovatore.”
9:55—News.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Dancing lesson.
3:15—Children’s story: “Hansel and Gretel.”
3:30 to 5:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
9:00 to 9:30—“Sports Workshop” with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films
Wednesday, September 24, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30—“Radio City Matinee” with Christopher Rule, Mrs. Pennyfeather, others.
3:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—“Miniatures in Music” with Jerry Sears.
9:20—“The Inquiring Reporter” with Jimmy Jemail.
9:30—To be announced.
9:50—“Face of the War”; news with Sam Cuff.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News Report.
2:45—“Table Talk” with Helen Sioussat, interviews.
3:15—Children’s story: “Hans in Luck.”
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—Visual quiz program.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
Our own Jimmy Jemail [right], who was radio’s first Inquiring Reporter, also becomes the first Inquiring Reporter for television. He makes his initial appearance before NBC’s camera Wednesday evening [24]. In 1921, Jimmy visited a radio station, WDT, above a piano factory on Ninth Avenue. A buxom singer, one Vaughn Leath, was the emcee, entertainer, in fact, the whole works. Jemail asked her this question for his News column: “What does the future hold in store for radio?” Vaughn replied, “Please step up to the microphone and we will post a milestone in radio history.” Jimmy did, and repeated the question on the air. She thereupon told him: “In a few years radio is destined to become the greatest means of mass entertainment in the country.” Vaughn De Leath, thus became an accurate prophet and Jimmy went down in the books as Radio’s First Inquiring Reporter! (Ben Gross, Daily News, Sep. 21)
Thursday, September 25, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Belmont Races.
5:00—Fashion Discoveries.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—“Thrills and Chills” with Doug Allan and Malcolm Rosholt.
9:30—“Words on the Wing,” spelling bee with Paul Wing.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
3:15—Children’s Story: “Snow White and Rose Red.”
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Sports with Bob Edge, interview with John Hightower.
8:30 to 9:30—Country Dance.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
College gìrl wardrobes were highlighted yesterday [25] in the second of a series of “Fashion Discoveries of Television,” a commercially broadcast televised program from the National Broadcasting Systems station WNBT in Radio City. The program, which is a combination fashion show and light entertainment, is sponsored over this station each Thursday afternoon at five o’clock by Abraham & Straus and Bloomingdale’s, and is planned and produced by Norman D. Waters, head of the advertising agency of that name.
Yesterday’s ‘playlet’ showed scenes in a grandstand of a college campus and in a fraternity house. Providing suitable background, the television set shows a close-up of a group of boys and girls in the grandstand and records of their flippant conversation and interest in a football game. Peggy Read, the commentator, meanwhile deftly takes up ail the lulls in the conversations of the students and gives a brief description of the clothes theyare wearing and the price of the garments; in a number of instances Miss Read mentions the resource of the garments. (Women’s Wear Daily, Sep. 26)
Friday, September 26, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—Belmont Races.
8:00—Test pattern.
9:00—“Modern Mikado” with Bruce Hamilton, Jack Millard, Pamela Wood.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Film.
3:15—Children’s story: “The Six Companions.”
3:30 to 4:30—Test pattern.
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—National Defense Program: Activities of the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps.
9:00—Sports with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12:00 to 6:00—Tests and Selected Films.
Although the reception on our television set was miserable, during the few lucid moment’s [sic] enjoyed by our machine, we had a tremendous kick out of the telecasting of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado” last night [26] (WNBT-9). A modernized streamlined version, produced by Shawmus O’Toole before the cameras of NBC, it revealed itself as first-rate entertainment. A group of veteran radio artists, including Pamela Wood, Jack Millard and Bruce Hamilton, gave a sweel performance. The costumes and the scenic background enhanced their efforts greatly. By all means, let’s have more Gilbert and Sullivan on television! (Ben Gross, Daily News, Sep. 27)
The entire Temple home schedule along with Penn and the Eagles-Bears pro game Nov. 30 will be televised by Atlantic on WPTZ, Philco video station. Last year Atlantic televised football experimentally, adhering to FCC rules than in force. This season, the bars are down and the entire television coverage, including announcers, will be independent of the conventional broadcasts.
Announcers have been trained to handle the new technique as well as commentaries and commercials. Dramatized commercials are being used, spaced not to interfere with actual play. New techniques will be used for commercials and the Ayer agency has been conducting research into various methods.
In televising the night game Sept. 26, five cameras were used—two on the 45-yard line, two showing special score boards which summarized play and the fifth at the studios for pre-game lineups and commercials. A special antenna was used to carry signals from the relay station atop the stadium, W3XP, to a receiver at the Philco plant some distance away.
Last year Ayer and Atlantic accompanied the television picture-story with the running story by the regular announcer handling the conventional broadcast. No pictures of field or crowd could be shown in which Atlantic promotion might be picked up. (Broadcasting, Sept. 29)
Saturday, September 27, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 5:00—College Football: Manhattan vs. St. Bonaventure, Randall’s Island Stadium.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30 to 4:30—Films.
Monday, September 29, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 18:00—Test Pattern.
9:00 to 11:00—Amateur Boxing from Jamaica Arena.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—“Boys in the Back Room.”
3:15 to 3:30—Children’s story: “John Gilpin.”
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30 to 9:30—“Men at Work.” Variety show with Eleanor Bowers, songs; Bourbon and Bane, dance team; Kajar, magician; Harland Dixon, dancer; Windy Cook, trick vocal effects.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films.
Tuesday, September 30, 1941
WNBT (NBC), New York, Channel 1
1:00 to 3:30—Test pattern.
3:30—Film: “Daniel Boone.”
4:30 to 5:00—Test pattern.
8:00—Test Pattern.
9:00—Whispering Jack Smith’s Prevues.
9:30—“In the Spotlight.”
9:50—News.
WCBW (CBS), New York, Channel 2
2:00—Test pattern.
2:30—News.
2:45—Dancing lesson.
3:15—Children’s story: “Hans in Luck.”
7:30—Test pattern.
8:00—News.
8:15—Joan Edwards, songs.
8:30—Metropolitan Museum of Art.
9:00 to 9:30—“Sports Workshop” with Bob Edge.
W2XWV (DuMont), New York, Channel 4
12 to 6 p.m.—Tests and selected films
Hollywood, Sept. 30. Harrison Holliway has contrived KSEE as the call letters for the Earle C. Anthony television station.(Variety, Oct. 1)
First in its presentation of a complete model line of motor cars for 1942, Hudson scored another notable first by making the premiere ‘42 appearance this week in Hollywood television.Interested in television, it was a gala occasion when executives from the Hudson Sales Corp., headed by Howard P. Grove, Pacific Coast sales manager for the Hudson Co., rolled a new 1942 Hudson Super Six sedan before the KTSL cameras in the Don Lee Studios atop Mt. Lee overlooking the film capital. The show was presented in the new $200,000 Don Lee Studios atop a 1700-foot mountain above Hollywood. Owner Thomas S. Lee, colorful radio and television figure, has consistently sought nee and diversified content for his programs which have included pickups at a rodeo, prize-fights and boxing bouts, Easter dawn services at Hollywood Bowl, baseball games and the Pasadena Tournament of Roses parade.
The new 1942 Hudson Super Six was inspected by the telephoto and wide angle tele-photo camera for the 500 home teleceiver owners within a 100 mile radius of KTSL. (Hollywood Citizen News, Oct. 1)
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