Many radio receivers sold in the U.S. in the late 1930s contained a shortwave band, but it took war in Europe for many Americans to show interest in tuning in. Eighty years ago today, the October 6, 1939, issue of Radio Guide provided some pointers in how to get the latest news directly from the European capitals.

During the day, London could be heard on the 16 meter band.  Starting mid afernoon, you could tune to 19 meters and also pull in Berlin and Moscow.  Later at night, France and Italy could be tuned in on the 25 and 31 meter bands.