Short description
The WMRN Radio History Archive is an independent historical preservation project documenting the people, broadcasts, photographs, recordings, documents and community traditions connected to WMRN in Marion, Ohio.
Media & Press
Media Resources
Resources for journalists, broadcasters, historians and community partners
The WMRN Radio History Archive preserves and documents the people, programs, recordings, photographs, documents, memorabilia and community traditions connected to WMRN in Marion, Ohio. This page provides approved background information, logos, images, quick facts and contact information for editorial and noncommercial media use.
At a Glance
Quick Facts
1940WMRN-AM began regular broadcasting in Marion.
1953WMRN-FM began broadcasting on 106.9 MHz.
2026The WMRN Radio History Archive was established.
80+Publicly cataloged accessions in the growing online collection.
1939–presentHistorical date range represented across the growing public catalog.
Ready-to-Use Copy
Official Archive Descriptions
Standard boilerplate
The WMRN Radio History Archive is an independent historical preservation project based in Marion, Ohio, dedicated to preserving WMRN’s broadcast legacy. Established in 2026, the Archive collects, digitizes, catalogs and shares recordings, photographs, documents, memorabilia and firsthand recollections connected to WMRN-AM and WMRN-FM. Its mission is to create a permanent, accessible historical record of the station’s people, programming, facilities and role in the Marion community.
Archive Leadership
Founder Bio
Brendon Hamblin — Founder
Brendon Hamblin founded the WMRN Radio History Archive in 2026 to preserve and make accessible the history of WMRN and Marion radio. His connection to the station spans both family history and professional experience: his grandfather, Terry Cole, worked at WMRN from 1988 to 2006; Hamblin grew up around the station and later worked at WMRN himself. He developed the Archive as an independent preservation project bringing together broadcasts, photographs, documents, memorabilia and oral histories.
For interviews, historical research questions or media inquiries, contact the Archive at contact@wmrnhistory.com or 740-914-2335.
Brand Assets
Official WMRN Radio History Archive Logos
These logo files may be used when referring to or reporting on the WMRN Radio History Archive. Please do not alter the logo, distort its proportions, recolor it, or place other elements over it.
Approved Images
Media & Promotional Images
For editorial use, please credit images to the WMRN Radio History Archive unless another credit is supplied with the specific archival record.
Historical Background
Key WMRN Historical Anchors
- April 22, 1940: Marion Broadcasting Company was incorporated in Ohio.
- December 23, 1940: WMRN began regular broadcasting; its first regular program aired at 1:15 p.m.
- 1941: WMRN moved from 1500 kHz to 1490 kHz as part of the NARBA frequency reallocation.
- May 6, 1953: WMRN-FM began broadcasting on 106.9 MHz.
- 2026: The WMRN Radio History Archive was established as an independent preservation project.
Read the documented founding history or explore the station timeline.
Coverage
Press & Public Recognition
The Marion Star — July 2026
The WMRN Radio History Archive and its preservation work were featured by The Marion Star, with online coverage published July 5, 2026 and print coverage on July 6, 2026, introducing the project to the Marion community.
Marion Public Library Exhibit — October 2026
The Archive is presenting a public exhibit at Marion Public Library during October 2026 featuring selected WMRN materials and the story of the preservation project.
Editorial Use
Credit, Rights & Attribution
The WMRN Radio History Archive can provide background information, interviews and high-resolution materials for legitimate editorial, educational and historical use. Copyright and reproduction rights may vary by item; inclusion in the Archive does not automatically mean the Archive owns copyright to every historical photograph, recording or document.
For image permissions, reproductions or questions about a specific accession, contact the Archive before publication. When no other credit line is supplied, use: Courtesy of the WMRN Radio History Archive.
The WMRN Radio History Archive is an independent historical preservation project and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the current or former owners of WMRN.
Media Contact
Need an interview, image, recording or historical background?
Contact the WMRN Radio History Archive for interviews, fact-checking, archival images, historical audio, research assistance or background on WMRN and Marion radio history.
Email: contact@wmrnhistory.com
Phone: 740-914-2335
Website: wmrnhistory.com
Facebook: WMRN Radio History Archive