About the Exhibit
The museum tells the history WGPR with through interconnected themes that chronicle the origins and influence of WGPR. Videos, oral histories and artifacts bring a dynamic ingredient to the station’s history.
Visitors can explore the history of WGPR-TV and 107.5FM told in colorful story panels, videos, memorabilia and interactive displays. The museum is organized around themes that chronicle the origins and influence of WGPR. A sampling of the story panel themes includes the following:
- Career Springboard WGPR opened the doors of opportunity to young people. See profiles of those who gained skills and experience to land media jobs in metro Detroit.
- WGPR Dance Shows “The Scene” was one of the station’s most popular programs, “Contempo” and “The New Dance Show” followed. Watch videos.
- Original Programming Watch video clips of the original shows developed by the station’s producers, writers and directors including ethnic programs.
- Media Personalities Made in Detroit Profile highlights of African American media trailblazers in print, radio and television whose careers were made Detroit.
- Pioneers in Black Media Ownership Detroit media owners in print, radio and television; expanded ownership and national media owners launched during the internet and cable revolution.
- National Success Stories From coast to coast former employees who left WGPR went on to find success in media outlets around the country.
- Interactive Historic Timeline National events in African American arts, entertainment and politics that coincided with milestones in WGPR history.
- The International Masons The origin of the fraternal order founded by William V. Banks and the leaders, past and present.