The Forgotten Network: DuMont and the Birth of American Television

by David M. Weinstein

During the late 1940s and early 1950s, the name DuMont was synonymous with the new medium of television. Many people first watched TV on DuMont-brand sets, the best receivers money could buy. More viewers enjoyed their first programs on the DuMont network, which was established in 1946. This book examines DuMont's programs and personalities.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Paperback

First published May 28, 2004

Reviews

[Doug Ebeling · Rating 3 out of 5]

A look at one of the original national television networks. DuMont was the broadcasting arm of a television manufacturer and was run on a shoestring budget, however many early innovations were created by DuMont because they were willing to try anything. It was the original home of Jackie Gleason and most of DuMont's shows were done live (at Wanamaker's department store) and broadcast out of New York on WABD-TV (now WNYW - Fox 5 in New York). Unfortunately when channel 5 was sold in the mid-1970s their library of old kinescopes and videotapes was carted off in trucks and dumped in New York harbor, so very little exists. Many of the few existing copies of old DuMont shows can be found on YouTube, so it was fun to read about them and then take a look at them on YouTube. Very interesting (if a bit dry and scholarly at the outset) if you have an interest in early television.

[Robin Bittick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent, well written history of one of the earliest TV networks in the US, now long forgotten by most. It shows how innovation and imagination are important, but alone does not make for a successful business. Management and finance are also important, as is fair government regulation.

[Owen DuBose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent detailed overview of one of America's first and now forgotten television networks.

[Elise]

This is for lunchtime reading. I'm a little obsessed with old-time TV. This will feed my obsession nicely, with some cool photos.

[Eric · Rating 2 out of 5]

Much as I hate to say it, this one disappointed me. Thought it was going to be a fascinating narrative, but it reads more like a long college term paper.

[Brian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just enough information for a pretty perfect read.