Today in Wheeling History: August 27--The Wheeling Gospel Tabernacle made its radio debut on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia, significantly expanding its reach and marking a milestone for both the tabernacle and the radio station (1932).
On August 27, 1932, the Wheeling Gospel Tabernacle made its radio debut on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia. This event marked a significant milestone for both the tabernacle and the radio station. The tabernacle, established earlier that year on Belle Isle at the north end of Wheeling Island, was a substantial structure measuring 80 by 160 feet with a seating capacity of 2,500 people.
Founded by Reverend Louis P. Lehman, the tabernacle's mission was to preach the "old-fashioned gospel" without fanaticism or extremism. It quickly became a hub for evangelical activity, hosting noted evangelists and featuring prominent musical performances. The tabernacle was known for its welcoming atmosphere, drawing people from various backgrounds to its services.
The radio broadcast on WWVA, then a 5,000-watt station, significantly expanded the tabernacle's reach. This partnership reflected the growing trend of religious organizations using radio to reach broader audiences. The broadcasts allowed those who couldn't attend in person to still participate in the services, fostering a sense of community and connection.
However, the tabernacle's story took a tragic turn in 1936 when Wheeling experienced a devastating flood. The raging waters swept the structure downstream, destroying the center of religious activity that had stood for four years. While the physical structure was lost, the tabernacle's legacy lived on through its broadcasts on WWVA, contributing to the growing importance of radio as a medium for religious messages in the 1930s.
To learn more: (https://shorturl.at/4Z0Gb) (https://shorturl.at/ljcgr) (https://shorturl.at/w8ag4) (https://shorturl.at/IaWHZ) (https://shorturl.at/mzN7t) (https://shorturl.at/vf4wA)
Photo credits: WWVA
On August 27, 1932, the Wheeling Gospel Tabernacle made its radio debut on WWVA in Wheeling, West Virginia. This event marked a significant milestone for both the tabernacle and the radio station. The tabernacle, established earlier that year on Belle Isle at the north end of Wheeling Island, was a substantial structure measuring 80 by 160 feet with a seating capacity of 2,500 people.
Founded by Reverend Louis P. Lehman, the tabernacle's mission was to preach the "old-fashioned gospel" without fanaticism or extremism. It quickly became a hub for evangelical activity, hosting noted evangelists and featuring prominent musical performances. The tabernacle was known for its welcoming atmosphere, drawing people from various backgrounds to its services.
The radio broadcast on WWVA, then a 5,000-watt station, significantly expanded the tabernacle's reach. This partnership reflected the growing trend of religious organizations using radio to reach broader audiences. The broadcasts allowed those who couldn't attend in person to still participate in the services, fostering a sense of community and connection.
However, the tabernacle's story took a tragic turn in 1936 when Wheeling experienced a devastating flood. The raging waters swept the structure downstream, destroying the center of religious activity that had stood for four years. While the physical structure was lost, the tabernacle's legacy lived on through its broadcasts on WWVA, contributing to the growing importance of radio as a medium for religious messages in the 1930s.
To learn more: (https://shorturl.at/4Z0Gb) (https://shorturl.at/ljcgr) (https://shorturl.at/w8ag4) (https://shorturl.at/IaWHZ) (https://shorturl.at/mzN7t) (https://shorturl.at/vf4wA)
Photo credits: WWVA
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