Jinsie Scott Bingham
Jinsie Scott Bingham, a broadcaster from Greencastle, IN, made history in 1977 as the first woman in Indiana to own and manage a commercial radio station, WJNZ (later WREB).
Early Life and Education
Jinsie Scott Bingham was born on December 28, 1935, in Greencastle, Indiana. She was the daughter of Roscoe Gibson and Alpha Edith (Robinson) Scott. Bingham's roots in Putnam County run deep, with her ancestors having settled in the area before the 1830 United States Census.
Her family had a personal connection with Depression-era gangster John Dillinger, who once ran a heist in Greencastle. Here is Bingham's personal recollection of the event.
Bingham's education was diverse and extensive. She attended DePauw University in Greencastle in 1953, followed by brief stints at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, and Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated from DePauw University in 1956
For an oral interview with Jinsie about her life and eventual career, check out this interview she did with the Putnam County Museum in 2021.
Her Career Beginnings
Bingham's professional journey began with various roles in politics and sales. She served as the executive secretary for Indiana Young Democrats from 1958 to 1960 and worked as a receptionist for the Indiana House of Representatives in Indianapolis in 1959.From 1961 to 1964, she worked as a salesperson for Avon Products in Greencastle.
Her broadcasting career took off in 1969 when she joined radio station WJNZ (formerly WXTA) as a sales manager. This opportunity came about through a chance connection at the local fire department, where she learned about an opening for an ad sales position at the radio station.
Pioneering Achievement
In 1977, Bingham made history by becoming the first woman in Indiana to purchase and operate a commercial radio station. She bought WJNZ (later renamed WREB) and served as its owner, president, and general manager until 1994.
This groundbreaking achievement established her as a trailblazer for women in the broadcasting industry.
Community Leadership and Service
Throughout her career and beyond, Bingham has been deeply involved in community service and leadership roles. She served on the Greencastle City Council and has been an active member of the Greencastle Chamber of Commerce.
Additionally, she has contributed to regional development as a board member of the West Central Indiana Economic Development District. Her long-standing commitment to local governance is evident in her role on the Greencastle Zoning Board of Appeals, where she served as vice president from 1983 to 2007 and has held the position of president since 1988.
Bingham has also been a charter member and board director of the Greencastle Volunteer Fire Department since 1986, demonstrating her dedication to public service and community engagement.
Awards and Recognition
Bingham's contributions to broadcasting and community service have earned her numerous accolades. In 1996, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indiana Chapter of American Women in Radio and Television.
She was later inducted into the Indiana Broadcast Hall of Fame and honored with the Sagamore of the Wabash, Indiana’s highest civilian distinction.
Her dedication to community service was further recognized when she was named Putnam County Citizen of the Year and awarded the Golden Hoosier Award in 2017 for her decades of volunteer work. In 2018, DePauw University honored her lifelong impact with an honorary doctorate. Check out the video below for her acceptance speech.
Legacy and Later Life
Even after retiring from broadcasting in 1994, Bingham continued to be an active community member. In 2008, she donated a rare 1871 map of Greencastle to DePauw University's Archives, demonstrating her commitment to preserving local history.
Bingham's impact on Indiana's broadcasting landscape and her dedication to community service have left an irreplaceable mark. Her pioneering spirit and tireless efforts have inspired future generations of broadcasters and community leaders alike.
Written by Emerson Elledge
March 2025