I bought a 1920s Fresman three tube battery operated set mounted in a Blandin cabinet at a local antique store in November of 1998. I knew I had a real find... unfortunately I can't find any information on it or even the company, aside from the fact that its products were rather low quality and that it went out in the early 30s (I think)... I would appreciate any info you wonderful people could supply. Thanks a lot!

Hi Miles, Your Freshman would have been made by Chas. Freshman Co., Inc., Freshman Building 240-248 West 40th Street, New York, New York. They started making radio components in 1922, then completed and kit sets in 1924. They had quality control problems as you have noted and were amalgamated with Freed Eisman in 1928, however the market crash was the end of them. There are the schematics for several models in Riders but all have more tubes than yours. It may just predate the Rider's schematics. Perhaps Norm Leal might be familiar with your set and suggest a similar schematic for another make that will match yours. Even if the quality leaves something to be desired it should be a nice set for your collection. Good Luck, Don Black.

: I bought a 1920s Fresman three tube battery operated set mounted in a Blandin cabinet at a local antique store in November of 1998. I knew I had a real find... unfortunately I can't find any information on it or even the company, aside from the fact that its products were rather low quality and that it went out in the early 30s (I think)... I would appreciate any info you wonderful people could supply. Thanks a lot!

: Hi Miles, Your Freshman would have been made by Chas. Freshman Co., Inc., Freshman Building 240-248 West 40th Street, New York, New York. They started making radio components in 1922, then completed and kit sets in 1924. They had quality control problems as you have noted and were amalgamated with Freed Eisman in 1928, however the market crash was the end of them. There are the schematics for several models in Riders but all have more tubes than yours. It may just predate the Rider's schematics. Perhaps Norm Leal might be familiar with your set and suggest a similar schematic for another make that will match yours. Even if the quality leaves something to be desired it should be a nice set for your collection. Good Luck, Don Black.

: : I bought a 1920s Fresman three tube battery operated set mounted in a Blandin cabinet at a local antique store in November of 1998. I knew I had a real find... unfortunately I can't find any information on it or even the company, aside from the fact that its products were rather low quality and that it went out in the early 30s (I think)... I would appreciate any info you wonderful people could supply. Thanks a lot!