AM Radio

Manufacturer / Maker Montgomery Ward Co. Chicago, Illinois, 1872 - 2001

Date1950

Mediumplastic, metal

Dimensions6 1/4 × 10 1/4 × 7 in. (15.9 × 26 × 17.8 cm)

ClassificationsTools & Equipment for Communication

Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of David Hake

Object numberPC1985.73.1

DescriptionThis off-white, mid-century, electric airline AM radio is constructed of plastic and metal. Emerging during the early twentieth century, AM radios like this one signaled the rise of mainstream radio entertainment during and after World War II. The top portion of the radio includes a rectangular tuning dial, featuring numbers 5-16, while a sliver of the dial's bottom reads "Airline" in cursive lettering. Just below this, six horizontal ridges are visible, most likely serving as both a protective speaker cover and a form of ventilation while in use. The backside of the radio encompasses a brown background and features text regarding an "Important Antenna Notice", as well as the location at which the cord is attached. "Wards Airline Radio" is read at the top, referring to the Montgomery Ward Co., a retail company started in the late nineteenth century. Observing the underside of the radio, a rectangular label is visible, featuring text regarding the functioning of the device, along with a diagram displaying the radio's interior workings. The model number "74BR-1504B" is written underneath "Wards Airline Radio" in large lettering at the top of the label.

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