49. Mid-century Television

This 1949-1950 Zenith black-and-white television set was probably one of the first home television sets in the county. It was purchased from the Thomas Hardware Store on Diamond Avenue in Gaithersburg by Garrison W. Bell, Sr., as a gift for his wife, Janet. Unfortunately, Mr. Bell passed away in September 1950. Later in her life Mrs. Bell lived with her daughter and brought the television with her. It was donated in 1999 by her son-in-law, Mr. Howes.

A Life magazine advertisement (January 16, 1950) for “Zenith the Royalty of Television” reported that “there just aren’t enough Zenith television receivers to satisfy demand for immediate delivery.” It asked, “Why not wait a few weeks more and get the best.” Of the eleven different models illustrated, the largest image, matching this set, was the “’Lexington’ TV console with 165 sq. in. Giant Circle Screen $399.95.”

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