Madison in Dane County, Wisconsin — The American Midwest (Great Lakes)
On the Air
Bascom Hill Historic District
Photographed By William J. Toman, June 17, 2010
1. On the Air Marker
In 1919, a group of students and professors gathered in the basement of Sterling Hall to transmit some of the earliest educational programming over the airwaves. Their regular broadcasts became the foundation of WHA, one of the oldest radio stations in continuous operation in the United States. A pioneer in using this new medium to teach its listeners, the station aired lectures, lessons and the world's first on-air sing-along, led in 1922 by Edgar "Pop" Gordon. For decades, it brought the university into the households of thousands around the state and nation.Erected by UW Foundation.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Arts, Letters, Music • Communications • Education • Entertainment. In addition, it is included in the University of Wisconsin series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1919.
Location. 43° 4.526′ N, 89° 24.089′ W. Marker is in Madison, Wisconsin, in Dane County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of North Park Street and State Street Mall, on the
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Leaders in Science (within shouting distance of this marker); Science Hall (within shouting distance of this marker); Securing the Future (within shouting distance of this marker); The American Character (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); A Grand Experiment (about 400 feet away); The First Dance (about 400 feet away); State Historical Society (about 500 feet away); North Hall (about 500 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Madison.
Related marker. Click here for another marker that is related to this marker. The nearby 9XM-WHA marker.
Photographed By William J. Toman
2. Sterling Hall
Photographed By William J. Toman, June 17, 2010
3. Bascom Hill
The heart of the University of Wisconsin, with Bascom Hall at the top.
Photographed By William J. Toman, June 17, 2010
4. View from Bascom Hall
The State Capitol as seen from the top of Bascom Hill. State Street links state government and the state university.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 26, 2020. It was originally submitted on June 18, 2010, by William J. Toman of Green Lake, Wisconsin. This page has been viewed 889 times since then and 22 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on June 18, 2010, by William J. Toman of Green Lake, Wisconsin. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
