American Heritage

American Heritage

Produced by the Armed Forces Radio Service, American Heritage was an educational series designed to teach service men and women about the founding principles and history of the United States. This compact collection of three dramatic episodes, running 56 minutes, brings to life some of the most important ideas that shaped the nation. From the framing of the Constitution to the origins of the state university system, these programs offer a fascinating glimpse into post-war educational broadcasting.

Collection Highlights

• “The Magnificent Possession” dramatizes the birth of the United States Constitution — a fitting subject given that members of the armed services swear to defend the Constitution, not a politician or president.
• “The Mails” traces the history of letter-carrying across Western Civilization, from a time when news from Washington reaching San Francisco in under three weeks was considered miraculous — a striking contrast to modern instant communication.
• “The Man Who Sat on the Apple Barrel,” starring Hans Conried, tells the story of Representative Justin Smith Morrill and the Land-Grant Colleges Act, which laid the foundation for agricultural education and the state university system, blending classical, liberal, and military subjects.

Track Listing

Show all 6 tracks (56 min)

• American Heritage 10 Magnificent Possession [Afrs]
• American Heritage Mails [1950] [Afrs]
• American Heritage Man Who Sat On Apple Barrel
• American Heritage 10 Magnificent Possession [Afrs]
• American Heritage Mails [1950] [Afrs]
• American Heritage Man Who Sat On Apple Barrel