New Orleans Television (Images of America)

More than 50 years ago, with the flip of a switch and the turn of a dial, local television became an unforgettable part of New Orleans culture. For many viewers, the memories remain vivid, even if much of what they saw was in black and white. This collection of vintage photographs highlights the history of popular programs and personalities, beginning with the city’s first station, WDSU-TV. After signing on the air in 1948, Channel 6 introduced favorites like Mrs. Muffin, The Great MacNutt, and Midday while building a news team that included local icons Mel Leavitt, Nash Roberts, and Alec Gifford. In 1957, WWL-TV took to the airwaves, developing a reputation for quality local programming and dominant news coverage. Channel 4 made household names out of Morgus the Magnificent, Hap Glaudi, John Pela, Phil Johnson, Bill Elder, and Angela Hill.