Mini-Stories: Volume 5

Origins

The Yule log broadcast, a holiday tradition for many, originated in 1966 at WPIX, a local TV station in New York City. Chip Arkuri, an amateur historian of the Yule log, explains that the station manager, Fred Thrower, wanted to bring the warmth of a fireplace to city dwellers without one. The first shoot took place at Gracie Mansion, but a mishap with a spark damaging an expensive rug led to a memorable start 1.

Percy Faith is the king of the Yule log. There's nobody that has more songs in the program than Percy Faith.

--- Chip Arkuri

The broadcast featured a loop of the fireplace with classic Christmas music, becoming a beloved tradition despite its humble beginnings 2.

   

Revival

After airing for 20 years, the Yule log was abruptly removed from the air in 1990, much to the dismay of its fans. Chip Arkuri recalls the disappointment and how he recorded the broadcast, preserving it for himself while others were left without 3. The program's removal was due to a new program director who deemed it unprofitable, but public demand and a post-9/11 need for comfort led to its revival.

It's like a vigil, so to speak. When the cards are sent, the cookies are, the gifts are wrapped, and now it's just time to relax and enjoy the solemnity of the moment.

--- Chip Arkuri

Today, the Yule log continues to air, offering a nostalgic escape and a sense of peace during the holiday season 2.