Ranger Hal facts for kids
Ranger Hal was a popular children's television show that started in Washington, DC. It was shown on WTOP-TV Channel 9 (which is now WUSA). This TV station was owned by The Washington Post newspaper. The show aired from 1957 to 1969, appearing on weekday and Saturday mornings. It was hosted by Hal Shaw (1925–1999), who was a well-known local TV person. He also created and produced the show himself.
Who Was Ranger Hal?
The main character, Ranger Hal, was a pretend US Forest Service Ranger. His job was to look after a national forest. He became friends with many local animals, who were shown as puppets. Some of these animal friends included Oswald (or Ossie) the Rabbit, Dr. Fox, and Eager Beaver. Hal Shaw did all the voices for these characters. However, a team of puppeteers made the puppets move. Some of these puppeteers later became famous, like Barry Levinson and Max Robinson.
The Show's Success and Expansion
After Ranger Hal became very successful in Washington, DC, The Washington Post decided to create a similar show. They launched The Ranger Hal Show at their TV station in Jacksonville, Florida, which was WJXT Channel 4. This version of the show ran from 1958 to 1969. It starred Henry Baran (whose real name was Henry Baranek, 1927–1979). This show also aired at similar times and was loved by both kids and adults. It remained very popular for almost its entire run.
Hal Shaw's Later Life
When the original Ranger Hal show ended in 1969, Hal Shaw moved into a management role at WTOP. In 1977, he had a serious health issue that affected his brain. This left him with a permanent disability. In 1985, the Forest Service made him an honorary Ranger, which was a special award. He later retired to his farm near Great Falls, Virginia. Hal Shaw passed away from cancer in 1999.
