Long before ipods, high speed internet and HDTV, the information technology of choice for readers of Boys' Life was radio. Why? Because information is power. A portable radio could save you from getting killed in an avalanche.

A short-wave radio meant you could save boatloads of sailors and earn the respect and gratitude of the police and coast guard.

And a buck twenty-five could get you all these cool certificates, booklets and a membership card in the Boy's Life Radio Club!

Yup, radio was such a status symbol it was even worth making your kid sister an "honorary member"... as long as she brought her G-E Tripmate portable radio.
These are terrific...I love starting my day with these wonderful (and often humorous) examples of illustration as well as your informative and witty commentary, leif!
ReplyDeleteThanks for a great blog! :)
Well, thank you, chrissie a - knowing you and the other readers are enjoying the blog makes my day! :-)
ReplyDeleteHEY! Not only did the Hallicrafter's Shortwave ad you've featured came out in the exact month I was born, but my dad had one!...the $59.95 model. I didn't realize it was a shortwave radio, and I'm going to go looking for it the next time I'm in his garage.
ReplyDeleteThat's great linda! I hope you find it and that you have the opportunity to save a boatload of sailors as a result. ;-)
ReplyDeleteI love these! "Well, OK she can hang with us even if she is a girl... as long as she brings her life-saving radio along." LOL
ReplyDeleteAs I've learned from having two sons, being the kid brother/sister is a drag. Your older sibling only tolerates your presence so he can use your radio (or in our house, your bass guitar).
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