[TWIAR] QRZ.com - UC Amateur Radio club station in jeopardy

[Greg Williams]

      Posted: April 19 2002,11:54

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If the past means nothing, neither does the future.

An era is about to end at the University of Cincinnati.  Since 1924, two 80
foot towers have stood atop Swift Hall as a symbol of radio and its rich
history.  Still sturdy and stable, the University of Cincinnati Amateur
Radio Club (UCARC, club call W8YX) has made the penthouse location on Swift
Hall its home since the building was built with the towers purposely being
part of its structure.  However, the current building renovation plans call
for destruction of the towers and removal of the club from the penthouse.
The architects have no desire to negotiate about the meaning of the history
and usefulness of the current club location, which will now be described.

During times of crisis, such as large floods, or other events, the club has
operated as a communications center for the city.  In addition to service, a
great deal of experimentation has occurred from the Swift Hall location and
towers.  The first voice contact with an airplane in the Cincinnati area was
made by past club researchers.  Additionally, our logs show that
experimentation in the development of the mode known as FM occurred at the
University of Cincinnati as well, again by the club.  To compliment this
rich history, the club still possesses a vintage setup which was purchased
new in the early 1950's.  This consists of a Collins 75A-3 Receiver, and a
Collins KW-1 Transmitter.  However, it is impossible to operate or repair
this gear in the location we've been temporarily given.

One would think that such a valuable part of history would be important to
the University, however this is simply not the case.  Unfortunately, the
future of Amateur Radio doesn't look the same as it used to, but the
equipment and experience contained in history would certainly be appealing
to many people.  College is an excellent place to promote and find the Hams
of the future, as some of the club members are seeking new licenses, or have
had their interest revived as a result of the club.  Additionally, for hams
who cannot afford or use equipment due to space restrictions, this type of
location is perfect to open the doors to the world.

If the campus architects have their way to "pretty" the campus during the
renovation of Swift Hall, this treasure will become scrap metal and a room
for "mechanical equipment stuff."  Not a very noble destiny for a room which
could once reach the world, aid the community, and promote the pursuit of
knowledge for almost 80 years.  Once this location is lost, the hope of
gaining a suitable location on campus will be almost certainly gone.

Please, if you so feel inclined to voice your opinions on this matter, the
contact information below.  Long live the spirit and goodwill of Amateur
Radio.

73 de W8YX

University of Cincinnati Contact Information:

Board of Trustees   (513) 556-3233
Public Relations    (513) 556-3001   greg.hand@uc.edu
Vice President's Office (Student Affairs)    (513) 556-4119
Mitchel.Livingston@UC.Edu


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