American Portraits
Step back into the golden age of radio with American Portraits, a compelling series that brings history to life through dramatic biographical sketches. First aired on February 25, 1938, with a portrait of Walt Whitman, this collection of 8 recordings (totaling nearly 4 hours) examines the lives of famous figures by focusing on both minor and major events that shaped them. As the program's introduction suggests, “Perhaps it is with their action, that we can find inspiration to meet our own difficulties with wisdom.” This digital set offers collectors a warm, immersive journey into the past.
Collection Highlights
- Humanizing Great Figures — From Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson to John Adams, Mark Twain, and Harriet Beecher Stowe, each episode explores the personal struggles and triumphs behind history’s most iconic names.
- Classic Golden-Air Drama — Recorded in 1951, these episodes showcase the rich, dramatic storytelling style of vintage radio, blending historical fact with engaging narrative performances.
- Memorable Episode Titles — Highlights include “A Storm at Monticello”, “John Yankee”, “There Stands Jackson”, and the touching finale “Keepsake”, each offering a unique window into American heritage.
- A Companion for History Enthusiasts — Perfect for fans of other classic historical series like Cavalcade of America, Destination Freedom, and American Gallery, this collection stands on its own as a portrait of character and courage.
Track Listing
Show all 16 tracks (3 hours, 59 min)
- American Portraits 510710 Ep1 The Incomparable Doctor
- American Portraits 510717 Ep2 A Storm At Montecello
- American Portraits 510724 Ep3 John Yankee
- American Portraits 510731 Ep4 There Stands Jackson
- American Portraits 510807 Ep5 Stepping Stones HQ
- American Portraits 510814 Ep6 The Sword Of Kentucky
- American Portraits 510821 Ep7 Reveille
- American Portraits 510828 Ep8 Keepsake
- American Portraits 510710 Ep1 The Incomparable Doctor
- American Portraits 510717 Ep2 A Storm At Montecello
- American Portraits 510724 Ep3 John Yankee
- American Portraits 510731 Ep4 There Stands Jackson
- American Portraits 510807 Ep5 Stepping Stones HQ
- American Portraits 510814 Ep6 The Sword Of Kentucky
- American Portraits 510821 Ep7 Reveille
- American Portraits 510828 Ep8 Keepsake
