Our History
The seeds of the York County Radio Club were sown in 1980 with an informal group of ham radio enthusiasts who gathered for meetings and participated in Field Day at Ogunquit Beach. While not yet a formal club, this initial group laid the foundation for what was to come. One of the key figures in this early group, Dave AA1LO, remained active in the ham radio community, joining the EMA (Emergency Management Agency) radio team in 1981.
Approximately 15 years later, Bob Stone N1KMA established the Wide Area Radio Network (WARN), an official club that initially met at Sanford Town Hall and later at the Acton Fire Department. Following Bob’s departure, the club became closely associated with the ARES (Amateur Radio Emergency Service) group at the EMA building, with both organizations holding meetings on the same night, albeit at different times.
Over time, the club and ARES eventually separated. WARN evolved into the York County Radio Club, while RACES (Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service) took over the ARES role at EMA. This evolution marked a new chapter for the club, solidifying its identity as the York County Radio Club and paving the way for its current activities and focus.
The Club Today
The York County Amateur Radio Club offers a diverse range of activities for its members, fostering both technical skills and a love for the outdoors. Monthly meetings provide a space for camaraderie, learning, and club business.
Beyond these gatherings, members enjoy a variety of on-air activities, including regular nets. The club actively participates in popular events like Parks On The Air (POTA), activating designated park locations to combine ham radio with exploring Maine’s natural beauty.
You’ll also find the club’s presence at local events such as Wells Harborfest, where they showcase the fun and educational aspects of amateur radio to the public. A particularly unique event is the Shaker Hill Apple Festival, where the club sets up a ham radio station in a vendor booth, demonstrating the hobby for curious passersby and even sharing fun ham-themed food recipes.
These activities, along with other opportunities to get on the air and enjoy the state’s varied landscapes, provide members with numerous ways to engage with the hobby and connect with fellow enthusiasts.