Description
The first issue of TV Guide, published on April 3, 1953 by Triangle Publications, Inc, for the Philadelphia Market.
Twelvemo, 12pp, [A-32], 13-24pp. The A1-A32 insert features the “Philadelphia Section,” with local television advertising and programming schedule. No address label on this copy, which is atypical. Faint blemish to front cover, internally fine. The cover features Desi Arnaz Jr. the child of Lucille Ball. The word “Philadelphia” is written above the photograph of Lucille Ball.
This work from the private collection of the magazines editorial director, Merrill Panitt, and features a three page response to internal critiques from fellow copy editors at Triangle Publications, Inc. Mr. Panitt considered this a “prepublication” copy, since the Philadelphia issue was never sold on newsstands.
A unique work, with no other known examples of this regional issue on the public market.
From the personal library of Merrill Panitt (1918-1994), the founder and editorial director of TV Guide. During World War II, Panitt served on the staff of Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, where he came to the attention of Walter Annenberg, the publisher of The Philadelphia Inquirer. Panitt joined The Inquirer in 1945 and worked with Annenberg to found TV Guide in 1953. He later became the director of Triangle Publications, the publisher of TV Guide, Seventeen Magazine, and many more.
