On March 1, WTAJ celebrated its 70th anniversary. Here’s a look back at some of the historical moments as well as the many faces that have walked through WTAJ.
On March 1, 1953, WTAJ, then WFBG took to the air for the first time. A lot has changed since that day; black & white to color and film to high definition to name a few. WTAJ has been “Live Local and Late-breaking,” as well as “Action News,” in addition to “Your News Leader: through the years. We have entertained our viewers with programming from Gunsmoke to NCIS and from I Love Lucy to Young Sheldon. WTAJ is looking forward to serving the community for another 70 years.
History of WTAJ
- On March 1, 2023, WTAJ celebrates its 70th anniversary.
- First broadcasted on 3/1/53, WTAJ was originally named WFBG. This stood for “William F. “Bill” Gable,” who was the owner of Gables Department Store and WFBG TV and Radio.
- In the station’s early days, all programs were produced and transmitted live from the studios on Wopsononock Mountain in Altoona. WFBG moved in 1959 to a new studio facility at Commerce Park on 6th Avenue, where WTAJ continues to operate today.
- In 1972, WFBG became WTAJ after being sold to Gateway Communications.
- WTAJ became the exclusive affiliate of CBS in the market in 1978.
- In December 2000, Gateway Communications sold WTAJ to SJL Broadcasting.
- July 26, 2006, Nexstar Media Group purchased WTAJ.
All year long, WTAJ will be sharing stories that have affected our community, as well as hearing from past colleagues who helped shape the station into the news leader it is today.
