WLS Radio’s National Barn Dance was one of the most popular and longest running programs on radio. The show blended music, comedy, and down-home theatrical skits that lasted well over five decades. The National Barn Dance debuted on April 19, 1924, the first Saturday night after WLS signed on the air. WLS also produced a live, touring version of the program, which was performed throughout the Midwest. The live WLS National Barn Dance performed in McLean County several times through the 1930s to 1950s.
The collection includes Pantagraph advertisements and articles promoting local WLS National Barn Dance performances as well as seven WLS Family Albums dated from 1930 to 1950.