Chapel Hill's Rich Radio Heritage: A Legacy of Storytelling and Community Connection

In 1920, the inaugural radio broadcast revolutionized communication, and Chapel Hill, with its vibrant academic and cultural scene, was poised to embrace this new medium.

 

By 1953, Chapel Hill had its own voice on the airwaves with the launch of WCHL at 1360 AM. Founded by local businessman and future mayor Sandy McClamroch, WCHL became a cornerstone of the community, delivering local news, music, and sports. Over the decades, it evolved, reflecting the town's growth and the changing media landscape.

 

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill further enriched the local radio scene. In 1977, students established WXYC at 89.3 FM, a station that would make history in 1994 by becoming the first to broadcast over the Internet. This pioneering move showcased Chapel Hill's innovative spirit and commitment to expanding the reach of its storytelling.

 

Public radio also found a home in Chapel Hill with the inception of WUNC at 91.5 FM in 1976. Offering a mix of news, information, and specialty music, WUNC has become a trusted source for listeners across the region, reflecting the community's values and interests.

 

Today, Chapel Hill's radio stations continue to serve as vital platforms for storytelling and community connection. From student-produced programs like Carolina Connection to local news coverage and cultural programming, the airwaves remain a dynamic space where voices are heard, stories are shared, and the community stays informed and engaged.

 

As technology advances and media consumption habits change, Chapel Hill's radio legacy endures, adapting to new platforms while maintaining its core mission: to inform, entertain, and connect the community through the power of sound.