The Birth of WHAE TV Channel 46: A New Era in Atlanta Broadcasting

Name: The Birth of WHAE TV Channel 46: A New Era in Atlanta Broadcasting
Start: 1971-06-06
Location: Unspecified

The Launch of WHAE TV Channel 46

In 1971, Atlanta, Georgia welcomed the arrival of WHAE (now known as WGNX) TV Channel 46, a new player in the television broadcasting landscape. This channel was notable for being the first to bring a Christian broadcasting focus to the Atlanta area, with a mission to provide family-friendly programming and promote wholesome values through various shows.

WHAE was owned by the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), founded by television pioneer Pat Robertson. It aimed to not only entertain but also inform and inspire viewers with content that aligned with Christian teachings, marking a significant moment in Georgia's history of media programming.

WHAE TV Channel 46's Mission

As WHAE TV Channel 46 began broadcasting, its mission centered around delivering content that could positively influence the community. The station featured a wide array of programming, from religious shows, children's cartoons, movies, home improvement programs, and various local interest segments. The intent was to cater to families looking for uplifting content amid the growing number of cable channels and other networks showcasing diverse and often controversial programming.

A Pioneer in Religious Broadcasting

WHAE TV was part of a larger movement in the 1970s, where religious broadcasting began to find its footing in mainstream media. The station became known for producing local and national Christian programming that resonated with many viewers, providing an alternative to the secular offerings available on traditional networks.

The Impact of WHAE TV Channel 46

With its broadcast beginning on this significant day, WHAE Channel 46 started to carve out its niche in the Atlanta television market. The channel contributed to the diversity of viewing options for families looking for programming aligned with their values.

Community Engagement Through Programming

WHAE engaged deeply with the community, partnering with local churches and organizations to produce content that reflected local interests and concerns. This approach not only helped in building viewership but also fostered a sense of community among the viewers, as they saw their interests represented on television.

Transition to WGNX

Over the years, WHAE would undergo changes, eventually transitioning to WGNX, which expanded its scope beyond just Christian programming, introducing a wider variety of content formats to attract a broader audience. This transition marked the evolution of television in Atlanta as it adapted to shifting viewer preferences and industry trends.

Fun Fact

WHAE's Unique Heritage

Did you know that WHAE TV was one of the first full-time religious television stations in the United States? This pioneering effort paved the way for subsequent Christian broadcasters to emerge across the country, influencing the landscape of religious programming in television history.