The 3900 Club began in the 1960's as a Sunday morning net of a dozen ham radio operators in, and around, the Sioux City, Iowa, area. The club was formally organized in September, 1969.

To access the 3900 Club Constitution in PDF format, CLICK HERE
(Please be patient -- it's a 10 page file)

Much growth in membership followed -- and some growing pains. FCC frequency changes, license restrictions, interference with other nets, and outside QRM all contributed to the net's inability to settle on the desired 3900 frequency permanently. For many years now, 3896 has been a stable spot for the Sunday morning gatherings, which begin at 8:00.

Our co-founder, leader, and net control for many years was Dick Pitner, WØFZO. His ability to take charge of any situation was enviable, and his leadership has been missed since his key was silenced in 1996. The net still uses his call as its own.

Lifetime membership originally cost $1.00. It is now only $2.00. There are no annual dues. Current membership is approximately 1400 & covers 31 states. The 2008-09 Board of Directors is ...

President:
Jon Hagger, LeSueur, Minnesota - WAØYSL
Extra - Member #1233 -
First Term

Vice-President / Net Control:
Tom Brosamle, Sioux City, Iowa - WBØYNX
Extra - Member #448 -
Third Term, Hamboree Chairman 2001-08, VE

Secretary / Treasurer:
Bob Solbeck, Humboldt, Iowa - NØGIV
Extra - Member #844 -
Seventh Term, VE, DEC for District 2 West

Board Member:
Clay Conard, Stratford, Iowa - WØFS
Extra - Member #1170 -
Fourth Term, Coordinator for Club CW Net, VE

Board Member:
Denny Hill, LeMars, Iowa - NØOIL
Extra - Member #1104 -
First Term, VE

Following an extremely successful ARRL convention at the South Sioux City, Nebraska, Marina Inn, in 1974, the 3900 Club, along with two other local amateur organizations, decided to try a similar event.

The very first Hamboree was held at that same site in 1977.


The following year it was first publicized as an annual convention.

Beginning as a one-day gathering, it is now two full days of activities. A large swap meet / flea market features several full-line exhibitors, who bring a good stock of both new & used equipment. Seminars on varied topics of interest, license exams, ladies' programs, QCWA luncheon meeting, and Friday & Saturday night dinners, all combine to provide something for everyone, from novice to extra-class. Often, the ARRL Midwest & Dakota Division Conventions have been part of the Hamboree activities.

A typical Sunday morning schedule is as follows:
    (all frequencies are + or - QRM)

7:30 to 8:30 at 3598 - Early CW Slow Speed Net - for those hams who want to achieve or maintain their CW proficiency

8:00 at 3896 - Trader Net

Informal round table following, when time permits

8:45 - Early roll call & comments

9:00 - The Bulletin

9:10 - Regular business meeting - followed by regular roll call & comments

NEW CHECK-INS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME!

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THE AMATEUR'S CODE
by Paul M. Segal, W9EEA (1928)

The Radio Amateur is:

CONSIDERATE ..... never knowingly operating in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.

LOYAL ..... offering loyalty, encouragement and support to other amateurs, local clubs and the American Radio Relay League, through which Amateur Radio in the United States is represented nationally and internationally.

PROGRESSIVE ..... with knowledge abreast of science, a well built and efficient station, and operation beyond reproach.

FRIENDLY ..... with slow and patient operation when requested, friendly advice and counsel to the beginner, kindly assistance, co-operation and consideration for the interests of others. These are the hallmarks of the amateur spirit.

BALANCED ..... Radio is an avocation, never interfering with duties owed to family, job, school or community.

PATRIOTIC ..... with station and skill always ready for service to country and community.