Earl Freudenberg: Remembering The WDOD Radio Playhouse Thursday, April 22, 2021 - by Earl Freudenberg
WDOD Radio Playhouse. This old photo is signed by Archie Campbell in the lower right-hand corner.
Most readers have never heard of the WDOD radio playhouse, and I must confess all I know is what the ole timers remember.
In an interview, WDOD Co-Owner Earl Winger told me they missed out by not continuing with the playhouse. Winger said Chattanooga could have been like Nashville. The playhouse was located in the old Capital Theater building on Market between 5th and 6th streets. Winger said he brought Gaylord McPherson to Chattanooga from WHO in Des Moines to help produce the show. Winger said he got a lot of talent, some for several years, others for guests performances.
The venerable North Howard Street theatrical costumer A.T. Jones & Sons Inc. that has kept Baltimoreans and environs dressed as ghouls, ghosts and in other guises for more than 150 years, now faces an uncertain future since the death of its owner, George F. Goebel, 88, who was also a well-known magician and illusionist, earlier this month.