GOING BACK TO the early 1950's, we can recall this morning show being aired here in Chicago, Inasmuch as this writer was by now a very sophisticated 2nd Grader, there wasn't much in it. The story was very different for three younger siblings born in 1949 (Rosemary), Jim (1951) and Bob (1952). They all benefited from Miss Frances' efforts at one time or another.AS WE DO recall, the dialog was slow, deliberate and very plainly annunciated. Diction and correct grammar was supreme. The proceedings began with a song of introduction by Miss Frances, herself. Subjects were always covered in a most deliberate manner, remembering that repetitiveness is the most important factor in prepping young minds for greater things to come.WE DID THINK that this was a local production, originating from NBC Studios of wholly owned subsidiary, WNBQ, Channel 5 (now WMAQ). We do distinctly recall that "Miss Frances" Horwich's program was preceded by the UNCLE WIN Show; which featured local Folk Singer and co-founder of the Old Town School of Folk Music, Win Stracke.

There still are examples of this programme out there, I have seen several complete and some half episodes as well. I think there are many toddler fans of the early 1950's, now approaching retirement, who look back with fondness for those days when Ding Dong School was broadcast. The chances of seeing it again are remote, so all they have is a warm memory to say what the programme and Miss Frances were like. Seeing it as a present day adult, it is not as it is painted, especially the supposed earnest non-commercialism of Frances Horwitch. Lots of time in her short show is devoted to plugging and pushing her own products. She wants to sell you Ding Dong School licensing products, especially baby talk "Little Golden Books" she's written. She had sponsors of course, General Mills was one- another was a children's vitamin company. Vance Packard once reported that he was shocked by Miss Horwitch's gusto is urging kids to get into the pretty bottle of nice yummy pills,, though preschoolers likely couldn't tell. Her annoying, condescending pap otherwise indicate her target audience might be infants, or those too young to tell. That she's an odd shaped,formidible looking woman with a dull, cheerless delivery makes her seem less like a friend than the strictest teacher in the district.

What can be said about "Ding Dong School", which hasn't already been said? Well, this show is so awesome, I bet that even Goku would like it. Broadcast on NBC-TV for several years in the Fabulous 1950's, a time of hope and prosperity, "Ding Dong School" gave millions of young kids the life-lessons needed to grow up on the right path. Truly, no murderer ever watched this fifties gem. Filmed on a set the size of a modern day bathroom (maybe smaller), "Ding Dong School" didn't need fancy sets or cheesy theme muzak, it was just the host, Miss Frances, talking directing to the audience, demonstrating how to do simple things like playing with a small cloth, or blowing bubbles. She also read poetry on the show, which may explain why Baby Boomers can actually read, unlike a certain later generation who uses fake words like "rulz" and "dis". The commercials were always for healthy food, which helped the host gain critical acclaim. Overall, I'd say "Ding Dong School" is a true masterpiece of television, a wonderful show which is almost as good as another masterpiece of TV, "The Jack Benny Show".