On March 17, 1922, a new sound echoed through the streets of Philadelphia. WIP-AM, owned by Gimbel Brothers, made its grand debut. This wasn’t just another station. WIP-AM was a pioneer, one of the first department stores in the nation to establish a radio station. Imagine the excitement as shoppers at Gimbel Brothers on Market Street may have even heard the station’s inaugural broadcast. That day, WIP-AM began broadcasting on the 360-meter “entertainment” wavelength, sharing airtime with other eager stations in the city. Can you picture those early days? The airwaves were a new frontier, full of static and possibility. WIP-AM embraced it all, becoming a beloved voice in Philadelphia. As you stand here today, you’re at the site of a broadcasting legacy. Though WIP-AM’s journey eventually led it to the FM dial and a new call sign, its impact on Philadelphia’s soundscape remains. The echoes of “Wireless In Philadelphia” still resonate, a reminder of a time when a department store dared to dream of reaching an entire city through the magic of radio.
Zion Baptist Church
Founded in 1882 Zion Baptist Church stands proudly in Philadelphia. It’s a testament to faith resilience and community. This wasn’t