New York (State). Division of Public Health Education

The Division of Public Health Education was responsible for publications, exhibits, news releases, audio-visual productions and loans, and annual conferences for state and local health officers. Its earliest audio-visual materials were lantern slides and motion picture films. The Division began to produce radio talks in 1922, as soon as radio technology became available. Between 1933 and 1945, the Division produced a weekly fifteen-minute drama series featuring the Department's Deputy Commissioner in the role of a folksy local health officer.

In 1948, the Division reorganized to better develop public education activities. It created a field service unit to recruit, train, and support local public health educators. It also created a new radio drama series called "A Story of Empire County," using a professional director, experienced radio and stage actors, and Columbia Recording Company studio facilities. Seven series of "Empire County" programs were produced between 1949 and 1956. Initially, thirty-eight stations carried the program. In 1951, sixty stations carried it.

In 1952, the Division produced its first television spot, and thereafter its media activities increasingly centered on television and motion picture film. The last "Empire County" series was made the same year that the Division undertook preparation of weekly television programs. By 1958, Health Department radio productions had consisted of occasional specials and one-minute musical jingles.

From the New York State Archives, Cultural Education Center, Albany, NY. Agency record NYSV2053349-a