Inside WHQR

Radio with Vision ... Listen and See

WHQR went on the air in 1984 as a non-profit, non-commercial full-service radio station affiliated with National Public Radio and Public Radio International. WHQR is operated by Friends of Public Radio, Inc., a 501(c3) organization recognized by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

WHQR's mission statement, as adopted by the Board of Directors reads: Friends of Public Radio, Inc. (WHQR 91.3 fm) will provide a reliable source of public radio, sustainably and efficiently, to serve our listeners.

The History of WHQR

WHQR Public Radio set up shop in 1984, in a converted bar in a strip mall in Wilmington. Founded by displaced opera lovers, the original Friends of the Opera, the station thrived by truly becoming a community station, supported and staffed by public radio lovers.

Ten years to the day it first went on the air, the station moved to a new home, a renovated building in the historic downtown. We added new studios, a custom-designed library and gallery for performances and exhibits, all warmed by blasted brick and mellow pine floors.

Yet so little has changed. WHQR is still known as the small non-profit radio station with a big reputation for unique performances, solid programming and a community spirit that covers southeastern North Carolina.

In our efforts to offer our audiences a "three-dimensional" radio experience, we encourage listeners to visit us at the station: either drop by while you're downtown or try to attend one of our cultural events. By seeing what public radio sounds like and by meeting fellow enthusiasts with similar interests, you'll find a whole new perspective on our area and our world.