The El Paso Amateur Radio Club was formed in May 1946. The first president elected was Bill Dickerson, W5JOT. Former members of the Transmitting Amateurs Association (TAA) assisted in the organization of the new club. The TAA was organized in 1927 and was active until the start of World War Two. In July 1949, the constitution and bylaws of the El Paso Amateur Radio Club were approved. The club was incorporated on December 12, 1949.

The new club immediately started radio classes, radio demonstrations and field trips such as the trip to White Sands Missile Range to observe the firing of a German V2 missile. A building fund was commenced in March 1949. Approximately $7,000 donations to the fund were made through selling chances on a Chevrolet sedan. This project netted about $4,000.

On June 19, 1949 Field Day was held at Cowboy Park (then located on Alameda Avenue). There were eight amateur radio transmitters in operation, including transmitters of EPARC and the US Naval Reserve. The price drawing for the Chevrolet and other prizes were held during the Field Day Activites. An estimated crowd of 2,000 people attended the drawing.

The club continued to add to the building fund by raffles and actions. Due to the generosity of Henry Woolridge of the Lone Star Motor Company, the property at 1501 Golden Hill Terrace was purchased at the bargain price of $1,000 in 1951. Records are not available on the cost of the building, but the building was contructed by the John Chamness Contruction Company at no profit. The materials used in the construction were also furnished at cost. The members of the club did all the painting, put up the ceiling, laid the floor tile and furnished chairs and tables. The antenna tower was donated and erected by Tex Burdick W5BQU.

The club has operated a club station since it was organized. From 1947 to 1950 the club call was W5MGI. The club call was W5PEW form 1951 to 1954. From 1954 to the present the club call has been W5ES. The W5ES call was originally held by Overman, who at the time of his death in 1933 was a member of the Transmitting Amateurs Association.

Rev: W5ES - Mon Aug 24 20:58:04 1998 EUC: W5ES 7GYSRGL.GOJSO-58617-5 cemert@dzn.com