The Jack Straw Foundation was founded in 1962 by a group of educators, artists, and journalists with the goal of starting KRAB-FM, one of the first non-commercial radio stations in the country. The station’s main purpose was to be a forum for the discussion and presentation of science, arts and public affairs programs. KRAB was formed at a time of progressing technology, when relatively few FM receivers existed and community radio was unheard of. The first day KRAB was on the air, its transmitter blew up and was rebuilt. Broadcasting from locales ranging from an old donut shop to an abandoned firehouse, KRAB struggled and thrived for twenty-two years. Its signature was unique and audacious programming. The Jack Straw Foundation also started KBOO in Portland, Oregon and KSER-FM in Lynnwood, Washington and assisted in the development of KDNA in Granger, Washington.
When KRAB’s frequency was sold in 1984, the Foundation continued to produce and present innovative and neglected sonic arts. In 1989 Jack Straw moved into its current facility on Roosevelt Way.
The Jack Straw Foundation was named after a leader of the English Peasant Revolt of 1381. These insurgent peasants traveled throughout southern England, gathering followers, opening prisons, killing lawyers and telling stories.
