JOHNSTON (SPECIAL) – – In keeping with the network’s long tradition of telling Iowa’s stories, this March Iowa Public Television will present a new documentary about rural life in Iowa in the 1950s. Iowa’s Radio Homemakers: Up a Country Lane showcases radio hosts who served as “neighbors on the air,” sharing tips on everything from menu planning to child rearing. The program premieres on statewide Iowa Public Television Thursday, March 11 at 8 p.m.

Somewhat isolated on the farm, many rural Iowa women turned to the radio to hear a friendly voice – and radio homemakers were a popular choice.

The documentary focuses on Evelyn Birkby, famed radio homemaker, who continues to broadcast on KMA radio today. Birkby shares her knowledge about Shenandoah, Iowa’s radio homemakers and offers personal and engaging stories about rural life in the 1950s.

“Iowa Boy” Chuck Offenburger and historian Tom Morain also give perspective on a simpler time when the American family ideal was foremost on Iowans’ minds.

Iowa’s Radio Homemakers: Up a Country Lane is an original Iowa Public Television special, and is part of the network’s 2010 Festival campaign. Viewers will have the opportunity to support Iowa Public Television and receive program-related thank-you gifts during the broadcasts. Information is available during the program, as well as at www.iptv.org.

The program also airs Friday, March 12 at 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 21 at 1 p.m. on statewide Iowa Public Television.