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"Amateur Radio + People = Fellowship"
Where it all started...
Since 1952 Hamvention® has been
sponsored by Dayton Amateur Radio Association (DARA).
For many years it has been the world's largest amateur radio gathering,
attracting hams from throughout the globe.
About 1950, John Willig, W8ACE,
had asked the Dayton Amateur Radio Association to sponsor a HAM Convention
but was turned down. John wanted to have a quality affair. Speakers
and prizes would be a drawing point. John finally found a champion
in Frank Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK), the newly elected president of the
club. A meeting was held and the DARA Board allocated $100 to get
started. The first organizational meeting was held in January 1952.
The Southwestern Ohio Ham-vention was born. The first committee consisted
of: John Willig, W8ACE, General Chairman Al Dinsmore, W8AUN, Arrangements
Bob Siff, W8QDI (K4AMG), Prizes and Exhibits Frank Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK),
Publicity Bob Montgomery, W8CUJ, Finance Clem Wolford, W8ENH, Program
Ellie Haburton, W8GJP (W4ZVW), Women’s Committee The next year the
name became "Dayton Hamvention®" and was registered as a trademark.
April was determined to be the best time but the Biltmore Hotel, in
downtown Dayton was booked. March 22 was the chosen date, causing
a short lead time. How far did $100 go? Not far! A 12’ TV was raffled
off to help raise funds. The FCC agreed to give license exams and
Phil Rand, W1BDM, a pioneer in TVI elimination was on the program.
First prize, a Collins 75A2, was purchased locally.
Hoping for 300 visitors, the committee was amazed that over 600 showed
up! There were 7 exhibitors and 6 forums. The ladies program was successful
with a luncheon at the Biltmore and a trip to a local TV station.
In 1955 the Awards Program began with the "Amateur of the Year." The
Flea Market has grown from 200 to more than 2000 spaces. In 1964 the
Hamvention® moved to Hara Arena. Shuttle buses and handicapped parking
were added in 1969. In 1973 it became a 2 day event with Sundays added
in 1974. The program has grown to a "Souvenir Program" and in 1976
the dimensions changed from 6"x 9" to the current 8-1/2"x11".
The growth of the Dayton Hamvention® can be attributed to caring,
energetic people who enjoy being on a winning team.
Original by
Frank Schwab, W8OK and Beverly Priest, N8VZV
Updated Feb 11, 2008 SC Copyright© Dayton Hamvention®
2008
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What's
New?
All new web site with easy to find information. Shopping cart coming
on line soon. Stay in touch.
Make your purchase for fleamarket spaces or tickets or inside exhibits
fast , easy, and secured
Would you like to be part of the team? We have perks. We have positions.
Click on the above link for more information.
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