The Dayton Amateur Radio Association is an association of radio amateurs, organized for
the promotion of interest in Amateur Radio communications and experimentation, for the
establishment of networks to provide communication in the event of disasters or other
emergencies, and for the advancement of the radio art and of the public welfare DARA is an
incorporated association chartered under the laws of the state of Ohio, and is an exempt
organization under the Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. Its affairs
are governed by a Board of Directors, whose voting members are elected every year by the
general membership.
DARA is the sponsor of the Dayton Hamvention® and earns its operating revenue from
this event. The funds are used for scholarships, education, disasters and public service events, the 10 monthly editions of the award
winning "RF Carrier" newsletter, upkeep of the various repeaters and membership
activities.
About 1950, John Willig, W8ACE, had asked the Dayton Amateur Radio Association to
sponsor a HAM Convention but was turned down. John wanted to have a quality affair.
Speakers and prizes would be a drawing point. John finally found a champion in Frank
Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK), the newly elected president of the club. A meeting was held and the
DARA Board allocated $100 to get started. The first organizational meeting was held in
January 1952.
The Southwestern Ohio Ham-vention was born. The first committee consisted of: John
Willig, W8ACE, General Chairman Al Dinsmore, W8AUN, Arrangements Bob Siff, W8QDI (K4AMG),
Prizes and Exhibits Frank Schwab, W8YCP (W8OK), Publicity Bob Montgomery, W8CUJ, Finance
Clem Wolford, W8ENH, Program Ellie Haburton, W8GJP (W4ZVW), Women’s Committee The
next year the name became "Dayton Hamvention®" and was registered as a
trademark.
April was determined to be the best time but the Biltmore Hotel, in downtown Dayton was
booked. March 22 was the chosen date, causing a short lead time. How far did $100 go? Not
far! A 12’ TV was raffled off to help raise funds.
The FCC agreed to give license exams and Phil Rand, W1BDM, a pioneer in TVI elimination
was on the program. First prize, a Collins 75A2, was purchased locally.
Hoping for 300 visitors, the committee was amazed that over 600 showed up! There were 7
exhibitors and 6 forums. The ladies program was successful with a luncheon at the Biltmore
and a trip to a local TV station.
In 1955 the Awards Program began with the "Amateur of the Year." The Flea
Market has grown from 200 to 2700 spaces.
In 1964 the Hamvention® moved to Hara Arena. Free buses and handicapped parking were
added in 1969. In 1973 it became a 2 day event with Sundays added in 1974. The program has
grown to a "Souvenir Program" and in 1976 the dimensions changed from 6"x
9" to the current 8-1/2"x11".
The growth of the Dayton Hamvention® can be attributed to caring, energetic people who
enjoy being on a winning team.
by Frank Schwab, W8OK and Beverly Priest, N8VZV