2020 marks the 100th anniversary of Pittsburgh radio station KDKA. KDKA would evolve from private point-to-point communication to being known as the first commercial radio station in the United States after airing the Harding-Cox presidential results on November 2, 1920. And the rest they say, is history.
The success of the KDKA broadcast and of the musical programs that were initiated thereafter motivated others to install similar stations; a total of eight were operating in the United States by the end of 1921.
“More than 100 years ago, many experimenters started delving into a new technology known as wireless, or radio. One hundred plus years later, many amateur radio operators are still contributing to wireless technology, while also serving their communities and enhancing international goodwill. Congratulations to KDKA Radio, also known in the early years as amateur radio stations 8XK, 8ZZ, and W8XK.”
Bob Bastone, WC3O, Radio Officer for the Skyview Radio Society via ARRL
KDKA Radio Pittsburgh
The special event, which will involve the operation of four stations, will run through the entire month of November. Special event stations K3K, K3D, K3A, and W8XK will set up and operate at several locations in Pennsylvania during November. Stations will determine their own modes and schedules. Visit the QRZ.com forums for information on certificates and QSLs.