Eldon Campbell was a significant figure in the broadcasting industry, particularly known for his pioneering work in television and radio in Indiana. He worked at multiple Westinghouse radio stations before settling in at WFBM radio/television in Indianapolis, where he helped guide Indiana’s first TV station.
Campbell was born on January 8, 1916, in Alert, Indiana. He attended Hanover College, but eventually transferred to University of Illinois, where he obtained his bachelor’s degree. While at the University of Illinois, he started working as a broadcaster on WILL radio.
After graduation, Campbell wrote three hundred letters to radio stations looking for work before he was able to start his full-time career. He worked as an announcer, writer, and producer for the first few years after college.
He joined WOWO in Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 1938, where he became the program director by 1941. He took the job because it was owned by Westinghouse, a big name in broadcasting at the time.
His career progressed as he took on roles such as sales and program manager at KEX, another Westinghouse station, in Portland, Oregon, and later served as an executive sales representative for Westinghouse Broadcasting in New York City from 1950 to 1956.
In 1957, Campbell returned to Indiana to become the vice president and general manager of WFBM Radio and Television (now WRTV) in Indianapolis, Indiana’s first TV station.
He held this position until 1973. Under his leadership, WFBM gained a reputation for excellence in news coverage and programming, earning numerous local honors and a prestigious Peabody Award during his tenure. Campbell was known for his commitment to high-quality journalism and community service.
Campbell’s influence extended beyond traditional broadcasting; he was a pioneer in cable television, helping to establish cable franchises in Indianapolis and surrounding areas. He also taught a course on radio and television management at Butler University while managing WFBM.
In 1965, Campbell became a trustee at Hanover College. After retiring from broadcasting in 1973, Campbell continued to contribute to the community through various roles.
He served as the director of the Indiana Department of Commerce and held executive positions with Hook Drugs and Indiana National Bank. His volunteer efforts included involvement with organizations like the Boy Scouts and Junior Achievement. He was recognized for his public service contributions with awards such as the Jefferson Award from the Indianapolis Star in 1987.
In 1988, Campbell was inducted into the Indiana Journalism Hall of fame, in recognition for his contributions to broadcasting. He was additionally inducted into the Indiana Broadcast Hall of Fame
Eldon Campbell passed away on April 19, 1991, but left behind a legacy of innovation and community service. As a respected leader in both journalism and advertising circles, Campbell’s work continues to influence broadcasters today.
