About the Exhibit
The exhibit focuses its lens on interconnected themes that chronicle the origins and influence of WGPR. Videos, oral histories and artifacts bring a dynamic ingredient to the station’s history.

The museum is housed within the original studios of WGPR-TV62 located at 3146 East Jefferson in Detroit, where visitors from around the nation and all over the world come to

  • Learn the history of the station, its founders, TV personalities, locally produced programming and industry innovations

  • Interact with hands-on displays of technical equipment including studio cameras and ENG cameras and tape decks

  • View visual segments of programming, including The Scene

Explore the history of WGPR-TV and 107.5FM in colorful story panels, videos, memorabilia and interactive displays. The museum is organized around themes that chronicle the origins and influence of WGPR. Each of the story panel themes is described below:


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William V. Banks Broadcast Pioneer Explore how William V. Banks became the owner of the first black owned and operated TV station in the nation. Learn about his role as a community leader, activist and family man.

    • The Founding Pioneers Meet the leadership team assembled by William V. Banks who banded together to launch a television station.


    • Original Programming Discover the original shows developed by the station’s producers, writers and directors including ethnic programs. Watch video clips of these shows.


    • Fashion Influence: View clips of dancers from “The Scene” whose styles inspired teens. See Nat Morris outfit, Prince Purple Rain jacket and T-shirts. Look thru the Diorama Window


    • WGPR Dance Shows “The Scene” was one of the station’s most popular programs, “Contempo” and “The New Dance Show” followed. Watch videos. Take a selfie with dancers!


    • WGPR FM 107.5 The station’s DJs influenced the listening habits of metro Detroiters. Check out the Audio Interactive panel to hear their voices. Pick up the headphones and listen!


    • Big City News Watch the first Big City News broadcast in 1975 and others that followed on a vintage TV in a retro Living Room Set.