The original 1966 WPIX Yule Log

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH-qQiRuzgg


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The original WPIX Yule Log was created in 1966 by Fred M. Thrower, the general manager of WPIX-TV Channel 11 in New York City:

Inspiration
Thrower was inspired by a Coca-Cola commercial from the previous year that featured Santa Claus at a fireplace. He wanted to create a holiday gift for New York residents who didn't have fireplaces in their homes.

Filming
The original footage was filmed on 16-millimeter film at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of New York City's mayor at the time, John Lindsay.

Music
WPIX-FM programming director Charlie Whittaker and Thrower selected the music, which included songs by Percy Faith, Nat King Cole, Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops, Mantovani, and The Ray Conniff Singers.

Airing
The Yule Log premiered on December 24, 1966, at 9:30 PM on WPIX Channel 11. It was a three-hour televised fireplace burning with a loop of holiday music playing in the background.

Success
The Yule Log was a huge ratings success. It became a tradition shared by many during the Christmas season.