Hall Automotive: This Week in 1926 (July 22–31, 1926)

How Radio and Automobiles Connected America

As Hall Automotive celebrates 100 years of serving Wisconsin, we’re looking back at the historic moments that shaped America and the automotive industry during the same year our story began with a Chevrolet dealership in Wisconsin in 1926.

During the final week of July 1926, two groundbreaking technologies were transforming everyday life: the automobile and the radio. While automobiles gave Americans the freedom to travel farther than ever before, radio brought news, music, sports, and entertainment into homes across the country. Together, they helped connect communities in ways never before imagined.

Automotive History: Preparing for the 1927 Model Year

By late July 1926, automobile manufacturers were already preparing to unveil their highly anticipated 1927 model year vehicles. Dealers across the country looked forward to showcasing updated styling, improved engineering, and innovative features designed to attract customers to their showrooms.

This practice of introducing new model-year vehicles each year quickly became one of the automotive industry’s defining traditions. Nearly a century later, annual vehicle launches continue to drive excitement among car buyers and dealerships alike.

July 22, 1926: The Beginning of National Broadcasting

On July 22, 1926, the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) acquired AT&T’s broadcasting assets, paving the way for the launch of the National Broadcasting Company (NBC) later that year.

For the first time, Americans would soon enjoy truly national radio programming, allowing families from coast to coast to share the same news, sporting events, music, and entertainment. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era in mass communication and helped unite communities across the nation.

A Century Later: Innovation Continues to Bring People Together

Technology has always strengthened connections between people.

Just as radio revolutionized communication in 1926, today’s digital technology allows businesses to stay connected with customers through websites, online scheduling, and digital services. At the same time, automobiles continue to connect families, friends, and communities by making travel safer, faster, and more convenient.

As Hall Automotive celebrates its 100th anniversary, we’re proud to continue the tradition that began with a single Chevrolet dealership in 1926. Today, Hall Automotive includes Hall Volkswagen, Hall Mazda of Brookfield, our trusted automotive service departments, and our state-of-the-art collision center, proudly serving drivers throughout Southeastern Wisconsin.

Celebrating 100 Years of Hall Automotive

Since 1926, Hall Automotive has remained committed to providing Wisconsin drivers with exceptional customer service, trusted vehicle sales, expert automotive repair, and quality collision repair. Throughout our centennial celebration, we’re reflecting on the innovations, milestones, and history that have shaped both the automotive industry and the Wisconsin communities we’re honored to serve.

Hall Automotive — Proudly Serving Wisconsin Since 1926.