Introduction
As we browse through old time radio programs, we often come across those shows that we consider classic and unforgettable. However, what we never consider are the people who went above and beyond to bring us those shows. Martin Grams Jr. is one such person who deserves a lot more recognition than he receives. Grams Jr. is an author and historian who has spent his entire career documenting and studying old time radio programs. His vast collection of knowledge has helped to preserve the history of old time radio and kept the memories alive for generations to come.
Early Life
Grams Jr. was born in 1970 in Baltimore, Maryland. He spent his early years fascinated with old time radio, even though he was too young to experience it during its heyday. However, he was determined to learn more and began collecting radio programs and memorabilia from his local library and thrift stores.
Radio Career
In 1988, Grams Jr. started working as a disc jockey for his college radio station. During this time, he also began volunteering at the National Public Radio affiliate, where he worked to restore and digitize old time radio programs. This experience led him to pursue a career in radio broadcasting and programming.
Author and Historian
In addition to his radio career, Grams Jr. is also an accomplished author and historian. He has written over 20 books on the subject of old time radio, including “Radio Drama: A Comprehensive Chronicle of American Network Programs, 1932-1962” and “The Twilight Zone: Unlocking the Door to a Television Classic.” He has also contributed to numerous documentaries and television specials about old time radio.
The Grams Collection
Grams Jr. has a vast collection of old time radio programs and memorabilia that he has collected over the years. His collection includes over 40,000 individual episodes of radio programs, ranging from the 1930s to the 1960s. He also has a vast collection of books, magazines, and other memorabilia related to old time radio.
Promoting Old Time Radio
One of Grams Jr.’s missions is to promote the history and legacy of old time radio. He regularly speaks at conventions, libraries, and schools, sharing his knowledge and passion for the subject. He also contributes to the Old Time Radio Researchers Group, an online community dedicated to preserving and sharing old time radio programs.
The Legacy of Old Time Radio
Through his work, Grams Jr. has helped to preserve the legacy of old time radio. He has documented and archived countless shows, ensuring that they will be available for future generations to enjoy. His work has also helped to demonstrate the important role that radio played in shaping American culture during the 20th century.
Conclusion
Although many of us may not recognize Martin Grams Jr.’s name, his contribution to the study and preservation of old time radio is immeasurable. Through his books, speaking engagements, and collection of radio programs and memorabilia, he has helped to ensure that the legacy of old time radio lives on for generations to come.
FAQs
Q1. What is old time radio?
A1. Old time radio is a term used to describe the radio programs that were broadcast between the 1920s and the 1950s.
Q2. What kind of programs were broadcast on old time radio?
A2. Old time radio programs included variety shows, dramas, comedies, soap operas, news broadcasts, and more.
Q3. How did Martin Grams Jr. get into old time radio?
A3. Martin Grams Jr. developed an interest in old time radio at a young age and began collecting programs and memorabilia.
Q4. What is the Old Time Radio Researchers Group?
A4. The Old Time Radio Researchers Group is an online community dedicated to preserving and sharing old time radio programs.
Q5. How has Martin Grams Jr. helped to preserve the legacy of old time radio?
A5. Martin Grams Jr. has written numerous books on the subject, spoken at conventions and schools, and collected and archived countless radio programs and memorabilia.