THE QXR Network as it existed in October 1959
The largest FM network of "Live" inter-connected off-air relay stations, operating on a daily basis.
(click on photo to enlarge.... click here for map only.)

In 1950, WFMZ an independent FM operation in Allentown Pennsylvania approached WQXR with the 
possibility of rebroadcasting WQXR's programs via off-air relay.  Tests were conducted and WFMZ became 
the first affiliate.  At about the same time The New York state Rural Radio Network also looked into
becoming a part of the new QXR Network.  RRN, along with WBIB New Haven,  went 
on-line July 1, 1950.  Among other early requests  for service from WQXR, were Bridgeton, NJ, 
Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, DC. Some telco circuits were required for 
reliable operations on this leg of the network.  By the fall of 1963 the QXR Network was history. 
(Excerpts from  Rebel In Radio - The Story of WQXR by Elliot M. Sanger)

The 1960 Broadcasting Yearbook lists 20 stations as part of the QXR Network; 11 in the 
New York State Division, four in the New England Division and five in the Mid-Atlantic Division.  
There were 17 non-connected (tape delay) affiliates listed in the 1961 issue of Broadcasting. 
Included, among others, were Chicago, Cleveland, Milwaukee, Detroit and San Francisco

Early FM networks included the American and Continental Networks.  These networks date
back to earliest days of FM broadcasting and relied mostly on off-air relay.   The notable exception
was Continental's use of telco lines from WASH fm in Washington DC to the New York City area.
The use of off-air relay allowed any station on the network to serve as an originating station.
In June 1948, the Rural Radio Network was formed, relaying programs across New York state.
The 1960's saw the birth of the Concert Network, serving the Northeast with classical fare.

FM Network related photos
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Photo courtesy R A Campbell