Dayton Hamvention 2010
May 14-16 2010
The Dayton Hamvention is generally considered to be the largest hamfest in North America. It is held each May at the Hara Arena in Trotwood, Ohio near Dayton, Ohio. The Hamvention offers forums, exhibit space and a flea market and usually claims to have over 20,000 visitors (verified by the ARRL). Many Amateur Radio enthusiasts go out of their way to attend the Hamvention, travelling from all over the United States, Canada, Mexico and various parts of the world and even as far as Australia, Japan and Russia.
The Dates for Dayton Hamvention 2010 have been announced. In case you have missed out on the communication - set yourself to visit the hamvention for May 14 - 16 2010.
Hamvention History
Where it all started...
Since 1952 Hamvention® has been sponsored by Dayton Amateur Radio Association (DARA). For many years it has been the world's largest amateur radio gathering, attracting hams from throughout the globe.
About 1950, John Willig, W8ACE, had asked the Dayton Amateur Radio Association to sponsor a HAM Convention but was turned down. John wanted to have a quality affair. Speakers and prizes would be a drawing point. John finally found a champion in Frank Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK), the newly elected president of the club. A meeting was held and the DARA Board allocated $100 to get started. The first organizational meeting was held in January 1952.
The Southwestern Ohio Ham-vention was born. The first committee consisted of: John Willig, W8ACE, General Chairman Al Dinsmore, W8AUN, Arrangements Bob Siff, W8QDI (K4AMG), Prizes and Exhibits Frank Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK), Publicity Bob Montgomery, W8CUJ, Finance Clem Wolford, W8ENH, Program Ellie Haburton, W8GJP (W4ZVW), Women’s Committee The next year the name became "Dayton Hamvention®" and was registered as a trademark.
April was determined to be the best time but the Biltmore Hotel, in downtown Dayton was booked. March 22 was the chosen date, causing a short lead time. How far did $100 go? Not far! A 12’ TV was raffled off to help raise funds. The FCC agreed to give license exams and Phil Rand, W1BDM, a pioneer in TVI elimination was on the program. First prize, a Collins 75A2, was purchased locally. Visit Dayton Hamvention® site to know more about the fascinating history of this event held every year.
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