Radio
At the start of the 1920s, radio was primarily enjoyed by hobbyists. For instance, Morristown High School students started a Wireless Club, before changing its name to the Science Club. Mass appeal of radio communications grew as more New Jerseyans could afford home radios, with stations supporting their programming by selling advertisements. This brought news, popular culture, and brand recognition directly into homes. By 1925, the radio was the major source of home entertainment for the family.
Prior to 1920 the radio was primarily used for ship to shore communication. Following the World War, hobbyists purchased components and built radios for personal use.
Radio station programming guides were printed daily in the local newspaper.
(Note the bedtime stories at 7 p.m.)
Radio Equipment was bulky and expensive, with state-of-the-art electronics often housed in elaborate wooden furniture. Therefore, people scheduled time together to listen to programs, which included, music concerts, narrated books, local and international news as well as political speeches and lectures.
The Curtiss girls are dressed in the newer and less restrictive fashion popular during the 1920s. Skirts were shorter, arms exposed and hair was cut short into what was called a “Bob”. Contrast the girls’ style to that of Miss Carr at the Mt Kemble home in which she is wearing the covered-up style of previous decades.
