WFEA Radio: A History of New Hampshire's Oldest Radio Station
Broadcasting is a cornerstone of community connection, and in New Hampshire, no station holds a more storied legacy than WFEA. Since its first transmission in the early 1930s, WFEA has served as a constant voice for the region, evolving through the golden age of radio, the rise of television, and the shift toward digital talk formats.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: March 1, 1932, at 9:00 a.m.
- Status: New Hampshire's oldest radio station.
- Current Frequency: AM 1370.
- Ownership: Has had 10 different owners since inception; currently owned by Saga Communications.
- Legacy: Maintained the same call sign throughout its entire history.
The Early Years and Technical Beginnings
WFEA began its journey on March 1, 1932. From its inception, the station established strong ties with major networks, serving as an affiliate for both the Yankee Network and the CBS Radio Network. In its earliest days, the station was owned by the New Hampshire Broadcasting Company.
Technically, the station started on the 1340 kHz frequency. During this period, it operated with a power output of 1,000 watts during the day and 500 watts at night. This operational structure remained until a major regulatory shift occurred in the early 1940s.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Transition to AM 1370
The landscape of North American broadcasting changed with the enactment of the North American Regional Broadcasting Agreement (NARBA) in 1941. This agreement, designed to reduce interference between stations across borders, prompted WFEA to shift its frequency to AM 1370.
This move brought a significant boost in power, allowing the station to transmit at 5,000 watts around the clock. Along with the technical upgrade, WFEA shifted its network affiliations to the NBC Red Network and the Mutual Broadcasting System.
The Golden Age of Radio
During the "Golden Age of Radio," WFEA became a hub for diverse entertainment. The station carried a wide array of NBC and Mutual programming, including dramas, comedies, variety shows, soap operas, game shows, big band broadcasts, news, and sports.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Evolution of Formats: From Top 40 to Adult Contemporary
As the 1950s and 1960s arrived, the popularity of network dramas and variety shows declined as audiences migrated toward television. In response, WFEA adapted by adopting a Top 40 sound, focusing on the most popular hits of the era.
By the mid-1980s, as music listeners began shifting toward the higher fidelity of FM radio, WFEA transitioned to a full-service hot AC (Adult Contemporary) format. By the end of the decade, this evolved further into a mainstream adult contemporary music style.
The Era of Adult Standards and Talk Radio
In 1990, WFEA embraced a satellite-delivered format from Westwood One known as "America's Best Music." This adult standards format featured legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat "King" Cole, Elvis Presley, Barbra Streisand, Dionne Warwick, The Carpenters, Neil Diamond, and Barry Manilow.
That same year, in November, the station was acquired by Saga Communications. WFEA continued with its music focus until February 2015, when the music format was discontinued in favor of talk programming, supported by hourly updates from CBS Radio News.
Sports Broadcasting Legacy
Beyond music and talk, WFEA has been a key voice in local sports. The station provided coverage for University of New Hampshire college football and basketball games, as well as Manchester Wolves Arena Football League games until the team folded after the 2009 season.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]WFEA Station Summary
| Era/Event | Frequency | Power/Format | Key Affiliations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1932 (Launch) | 1340 kHz | 1,000W Day / 500W Night | Yankee Network, CBS |
| Post-1941 (NARBA) | 1370 kHz | 5,000W (24/7) | NBC Red, Mutual |
| 1950s - 1960s | 1370 kHz | Top 40 | Local/Network |
| 1990 - 2015 | 1370 kHz | Adult Standards | Westwood One |
| 2015 - Present | 1370 kHz | Talk Programming | CBS Radio News |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did WFEA first begin broadcasting?
WFEA began broadcasting at 9:00 a.m. on March 1, 1932, making it the oldest radio station in New Hampshire.
Why did WFEA change its frequency from 1340 to 1370 kHz?
The change occurred in 1941 due to the enactment of the North American Regional Broadcasting Agreement (NARBA), which reorganized frequency assignments to reduce interference.
Who owns WFEA currently?
WFEA was acquired by Saga Communications in November 1990.
What music format did WFEA use before switching to talk radio?
Before switching to talk programming in February 2015, WFEA aired an adult standards format known as "America's Best Music," featuring artists like Frank Sinatra and Nat "King" Cole.
Which sports teams has WFEA broadcasted in the past?
WFEA has broadcasted University of New Hampshire college football and basketball games, as well as Manchester Wolves Arena Football League games until 2009.