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Washington, D.C., circa 1921. "Loomis Radio School." Mary Texanna Loomis, founder and owner of the school, instructing a class. View full size.
“Very curious gender dynamics here,” stanton_square writes, with respect to the men-only policy at the Loomis radio school. As someone else commented, it may be a matter of eliminating distractions for the boys. And we can never over-estimate the difference behind their time and ours. But I can’t resist the thought that it may also be a matter of Miss Loomis pulling up the ladder behind her.
So, no women admitted as students but Ok as teachers? Whoa! And the guy in the Red Skelton checked jacket has a DA haircut that is 30 years from the future.
Some mighty smart and nifty lighting. Those desks are as narrow as they come. An economical school, Loomis.
What a large class of seemingly dedicated students--except for the young fellow at the end of the row who is leaning on his hand trying to sleep inobtrusively. They all are so smartly dressed, especially by today's standards. And the uniformity of haircut style is interesting.
A Google search for Mary Texanna Loomis will reveal lots of interesting things. Any guess where she was born?
Very curious gender dynamics here. Why was an education in radio good for her but not other women? What was she thinking?
Washington Post, Mar 4, 1920; Advertisement
A course in radio compass work, coupled with one in wireless telegraphy, fits a young man for better positions as a wireless operator. These subjects are both covered in our radio course at no extra charge. This is the first wireless school in America to introduce these important subjects, and many young men are taking advantage of this opportunity to more thoroughly fit themselves for positions as wireless operators. Special attention is given to brushing up amateurs and advanced students in code work. If you are unable to get it elsewhere, come to us. Call and inspect our up-to-date school, which all pronounce the best in its line. Catalog on request. LOOMIS RADIO SCHOOL, 401-411 9th st. nw. Phone Main 7839. Entrance in lobby of Strand Theater. For men only; no women enrolled.
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