John Blair’s logbook can be divided into three sub-sections –

1936 to 1939

Pages 1 to 88 : John Blair, having obtained his amateur licence in the mid-1930s, becomes regularly active on the bands throughout the late 30s and begins to log his many contacts. This section gives a great insight into the type of communications which could be achieved in this era using fairly modest and mainly homebuilt equipment.

Then … all amateur radio activity is halted by government order in 1939 when war is declared. (John Blair notes the start of the Second World War on Page 87)

Select year to view logbook pages –

1940 to 1944

Pages 89 to 103 : John Blair continues to use his logbook for the next four years to record his Voluntary Interceptor listening sessions. This type of logging activity was probably contrary to the Radio Security Service regulations at the time. It should not have been done!

At the end of WWII he does not resume amateur radio activities, perhaps needing a break from of his lengthy and intense VI monitoring sessions during the war and also wishing to concentrate on his retail business?

Select –

1962 to 1964

Pages 104 to 109 : John Blair resumes amateur radio activities in 1962, perhaps at the time of his retirement from his wine merchant business in Selkirk town centre. Sadly, he dies in 1964 and his logbook is acquired by fellow Selkirk amateur Bob Harkness, GM3PSJ.

Select –

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Select year to view logbook pages –

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