Morse Code in Athens, AL
We do a POTA Activation in Athens, Alabama
Today, Becky (N4BKY) and I had a delightful Parks on the Air (POTA) activations in the charming town of Athens, Alabama. This spontaneous adventure brought us to a picturesque public park nestled right along the historic Trail of Tears, surrounded by the beauty of classic Southern architecture, quaint houses, and iconic buildings from Athens State University. It ended up being a perfect activation for a perfect weather day and great first activation with the new to us JJ-38 straight key and tiny whip antenna.
Thanks to Becky for finding this great spot to activate. It is right along the Trail of Tears and crosses through the public park.
Our activation spot featured a serene little lake, providing a relaxing backdrop as we set up our portable ham radio station. Nearby, a vintage gas station—seemingly plucked straight from the 1960s—added to the nostalgic charm of the area. It felt like stepping back in time!
For today's activation, we operated using our trusty Xiegu G90 radio, running 15 watts into an Elecraft AX2 tiny whip antenna. This small antenna turned out to be perfect for our location; it allowed us to operate effectively without disturbing the beautiful surroundings or requiring us to stake anything into the ground.
This was a perfect place for this tiny antenna. It's hard to believe this little guy does 20m. This is an Elecraft AX2. We were (and are) in the process of designing something very similar. When I mentioned it to N6ARA, he said, "like the AX2". I looked it up and got one to try it while we are finishing our design. If ours ends up working anything like this, I'll be super happy. Yes, it is a compromise, but for locations like this where you want to setup fast and blend in, it's perfect. We did NOT need the tuner.
Usually, Becky is known for her skills with a straight key, but today, I took the opportunity to test my newly acquired JJ-38 straight key. The feel of the straight key, coupled with the rhythmic Morse code, added a special joy to our activation.
We logged a total of 12 QSOs across 10 states and 2 countries, all on 20 meters. The compact setup performed exceptionally well, enabling us to connect with fellow hams as far away as Ontario, Canada.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to all the operators who contacted us today. Each QSO reminded us of the incredible community spirit that makes ham radio, Morse code, and POTA activations such enjoyable and meaningful experiences.
Michael's Map (N4FFF)
- K3SLH - Steve, PA
- N1XV - Julia, NJ
- W1BLU - Blue (David), SC
- KE5ET - Scott, TX
- K1SP - Matt (Matthew), TX
- VA3UZ - Tim (Allan Timothy), ON
- WJ3FF - Jeffery, NC
- N9SZ - Steven, NC
- WB5UTM - Scott, LA
- K8DRT - Raymond, MI
- KE9BHN - Paul, IL
- N9DGL - Bruce, IN
Becky's map (N4BKY)
- N0MRK - Mark, CO
- NB0W - Scott, NE
- KC4SGO - Edward, FL
- K4AHO - James, FL
- N0RO - Mark, MN
- N5IM - Bill (William), TX
- KG4EXY - John, VA
- VA3UZ - Tim (Allan Timothy), ON
- WA3KFS - John, PA
- KD8CGH - Robert, OH
- AA9SK - John, IL
- WX0X - Shane, AR
To anyone considering trying Parks on the Air or Morse code—go for it! Every activation is a new adventure, connecting you with amazing people and beautiful locations you might otherwise never visit.
73, Mike N4FFF & Becky N4BKY
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