In 1938 RCA sold a "portable" camera setup to KSTP, which
used them in experimental broadcasts. The station became a commercial
broadcaster in 1948
Courtesy of Steve Dichter
Picture of the interior of Arlington Electric store, September 22, 1939. Television demonstration by KSTP during Payne Avenue Harvest Festival
Courtesy of Steve Dichter
1939 press photo
Warden and deputy warden demonstrating possible use of KSTP's television cameras for
security purposes at the State Prison in 1939.
After the war, KSTP-TV was the first television station in Minnesota, signing on the air April 27, 1948, from the Prom Ballroom. It was the first NBC affiliate not owned by the network.
The transmitter, located at the executive offices at 3415 University Avenue, had a 571 foot tower and an effective radiated power of 24,700 watts.