Zenith "My Radio" Pendant Transistor Radio, circa 1970

Introduced in Japan in 1979 and in the US the following year, the Walkman allowed users to enjoy music while walking, exercising, or using public transport. It changed the way people enjoy music--providing a private experience in the midst of everyday life--encouraging a trend that escalated with the development of the iPod and other digital music players.

Small sawmills played a fundamental role in rural communities in nineteenth century America, processing locally-logged wood to provide sawn lumber for construction in the immediate area. While many such mills were water powered, this was steam-powered from the outset. It was simple but refined -- a modest, self-sufficient industrial operation (water and fuel was available onsite), comfortably wedded to its rural location.

This Crosley "Coloradio" tabletop radio was part of a product line named to highlight the wide range of colors its Bakelite case came in. This radio is notable for the influence of contemporary automobile styling upon its design. Many of Crosley's 1950s radios featured flashy chrome trim, fashionable colors, and circular dials reminiscent of automobile grills and instrument panels.

Explore the story of the “Pocket Radio” manufactured by the Auto Indicator Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and learn how it fits into the history of radio and audio entertainment.