WBNS Radio in Columbus is celebrating 100 years on-air.
WBNS-AM was launched in 1922 by C.A. Entrekin as WCAH in the living room of his home, before being purchased by the Wolfe Family in the early 1930s. They changed the call letters to WBNS, with BNS standing for the family’s business interests Banks, News, and Shoes.
The Wolfe Family began experimenting with the FM band in the 40s before acquiring 97.1 FM in 1957.
The station is now owned by TENGA, and operates as 97.1 The Fan and 1460 ESPN Columbus.
“It is so exciting to be celebrating 100 years of broadcasting tradition and excellence on ESPN Columbus,” said vice president and station manager Todd Markiewicz. “The Wolfe Family provided a century of tradition and service to our community and our entire team is proud to carry on that legacy. 100 years of doing anything well is impressive. Through our broadcasting, we’ve become part of the fabric of our community with a front row seat to its rich history. These historic call letters have not only stood the test of time, but have gained momentum and grown into a local, regional, and national sports marketing leader.”
WBNS has served as the flagship radio station for Ohio State Athletics since 1983. It has also served as the radio home of the Columbus Blue Jackets since their inaugural season in 2000. In addition, 97.1 The Fan is the Columbus home for the Cleveland Browns.
To celebrate its 100-year anniversary, the station will air a one-hour special at 9:00 PM to commemorate the occasion.
