Exhibit on history of WGPR-TV opens at Detroit Historical Museum

By Karen Hudson Samuels/Tell Us Detroit

DETROIT (Tell Us Det) The history of the first African American owned and operated television in the United States is the now subject of an exhibit at the Detroit Historical Museum. This important display of Detroit and broadcast history opened on January 23, 2016 and runs through April 3rd.

The exhibit, titled “America’s Broadcasting Pioneer: WGPR TV 62”, is a rich showcase of graphic images, videos and artifacts that bring to life the station’s history, people and influence. While many metro Detroiter’s recall "The Scene," a popular dance show, few knew of the station’s pioneering achievement in the annals of television ownership.

Dr. William V. Banks, a prominent Detroit businessman, lawyer and ordained minister, was motivated to acquire a television station that would bring diverse voices and faces to the airwaves.

The realization of his accomplishment is highlighted throughout the exhibit including a video of Dr. Banks talking about a pivotal invitation to a White House dinner that laid the groundwork for his receiving a broadcast license.

A recent invitation only preview of the exhibit, held over the weekend, featured a presentation by Shaun Robinson, the Access Hollywood host of 16 years who had her start at WGPR-TV62.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd who witnessed Tenicia Gregory, the daughter of WGPR-TV founder Dr. Banks cut the ceremonial ribbon opening the exhibit.

The station launched the careers of many aspiring broadcast professionals and the results are captured in the exhibit’s Career Springboard panels. Other exhibit themes include: The Founding Pioneers, Original Programming, The International Masons and a Historic TimeLine. Visitors will also see a replica of the Historical Marker that was dedicated on January 18, 2016 at the stations 3146 East Jefferson location.

Radio station 107.5FM operated concurrently at the studios of WGPR; the DJ’s who shaped Detroit listeners, including the legendary Electrifying Mojo are also on display.

The organizers of exhibit are members of the WGPR TV-62 Historical Society, a registered 501(3) c non-profit organization that has worked closely with the International Free and Accepted Modern Masons and Eastern Stars, the fraternal organization founded by Dr. Banks and owners of the station.

The “America’s Broadcasting Pioneer: WGPR TV 62” exhibit will be moved to the original TV studios to establish a permanent museum on the station’s history. For more information contact the WGPR TV Historical Society at detroit@wgprtvhistory.org