Global InformationTraynor Ora Halftown information
Chief Halftown | |
|---|---|
 Traynor Ora Halftown, c. 1960s | |
| Born | Traynor Ora Halftown February 24, 1917 Cattaraugus Reservation |
| Died | July 8, 2003 (aged 86) Brigantine, New Jersey |
| Occupation | Entertainer |
| Years active | 1950–1999 |
| Title | Honorary chief of Seneca tribe |
| Spouse | Margaret Halftown |
| Children | 3 |
Traynor Ora Halftown (February 24, 1917 – July 5, 2003), better known as Chief Halftown, was a Native American entertainer who hosted a children's show that aired on WFIL-TV (which became WPVI-TV in 1972) in Philadelphia from 1950 to 1999.[1][2][3][4] Originally intended for a six-week series, his show went on to become the world's longest running local TV children's show.
Following Halftown's death in 2003, Dave Davis, the president and general manager of Philadelphia's television station WPVI-TV6, said of Halftown:[5]
"It would be difficult to find another local television host who connected with so many generations of children. Chief Halftown will be missed, but more importantly, he will be fondly remembered by us all."
- ^ Broadcast Pioneers of Philadelphia. Chief Halftown, A Broadcast Pioneer. Accessed 2010-11-30
- ^ Mullane, J.D. "My one, bright shining morning with Our Gal Sal." Willingboro, New Jersey: Burlington County Times, January 28, 2013.
- ^ "Sally, Happy, Chief Entertain Kids." Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: The Philadelphia Inquirer, September 15, 1963, p. 247 (subscription required).
- ^ Lauer-Williams, Kathy. "Sally & Other Early TV Stars." Allentown, Pennsylvania: The Morning Call, February 23, 2013, p. Life 1 (subscription required).
- ^ Takiff, Jonathan. "Let's hear it for the chief" and "With his trademark expression, Halftown was a Philly fav." Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Philadelphia Daily News, July 8, 2003, p. 10 (subscription required).