For the Westfield Historical Society’s First Wednesday Luncheon series in April, guests are welcome to the luncheon at Echo Lake Country Club on Wednesday April 3rd, 2024 at 11:45am. Dr. Alex Magoun will present a program on "RCA Labs and 6 Inventions that Changed the World”.

Color television, liquid-crystal displays, transistors, LEDs, video cameras, and  computers--these technologies define so much of modern civilization, especially as they contribute to the ubiquitous smartphone. The staff of the laboratories of the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) in Princeton, NJ, played essential roles in the invention and innovation of these six technologies, among many others. Dr. Magoun explores the fascinating process and stories of high-tech research and development, aided by stunning photographs and rare images that reflect American confidence in the promise of technology.

     Dr. Magoun is the outreach historian for the IEEE History Center in Piscataway and one of the world's leading authorities on the history of RCA and consumer electronics, from phonographs to televisions. Starting with his dissertation on the evolution of the phonograph record and continuing with ten years of directing the David Sarnoff Library in Princeton, he has researched their significant connections to the Garden State, and the many connections across New Jersey, U.S., and global history. Dr. Magoun has written and lectured extensively for a wide range of audiences, from middle school students and retirees to engineers and scholars, in ten states and eleven countries.

Those wishing to attend the luncheon may make a reservation by email to westfieldhistoricalsociety@gmail.com; or, by calling 908-654-1794, before Thursday, March 28th. Please advise if there are special dietary needs. The luncheon fee of $40 (WHS members) or $45 (non-members) includes a three-course meal, coffee/tea, and gratuity. The luncheon fee should be paid in advance (check payable to Westfield Historical Society) by mailing to Westfield Historical Society, P.O. Box 613, Westfield, NJ  07091; by Venmo to @Westfield-HistoricalSociety; or, online at: www.westfieldhistoricalsociety.org/registration. Payments should be received by Friday prior to the luncheon.   

Echo Lake Country Club is located at 515 Springfield Ave., Westfield, NJ. Attendees are encouraged to check the club’s dress code and club policies at: echolakecc.org/guest-info