Canyon Kid's Corner

Format

Jim Henry hosted the show for 32 years, describing it as both entertainment and instruction that taught children principles such as respecting parents and being kind to friends. Each episode featured 15 to 20 children live. During the first month, Henry wore a cowboy hat and tie; though he played a cowboy, he had a Brooklyn accent, which he explained came from the canyons of New York City's tall buildings. Children often appeared for their birthdays, sometimes with friends or Scout troops. Tuesdays featured guests' pets, Wednesdays held a drawing contest, and Thursdays showcased children's dance, song, and music performances.

Production

Jim Henry, originally from Brooklyn, moved to Sioux City after being stationed there during World War II. Canyon Kid's Corner began as part of KVTV's original lineup on March 29, 1953. Producers sought a host for a children's series; Henry wanted the show to resemble a backyard club for children. He auditioned in cowboy-like clothing and coined the name Canyon Kid.

Although KVTV liked his audition, producers wanted a better show name, but it remained unchanged for the entire 32-year run. Originally a daily afternoon program, it moved to 7:30 a.m. when KVTV (later KCAU-TV) aired The Mike Douglas Show to boost early evening newscast audiences. By 1978, it aired weekly on Sundays at noon. Throughout its run, about 75,000 children appeared as guests; the show was considered a pioneer of Iowa children's programming alongside The Magic Window and helped launch musician Tommy Bolin's career.

In November 1985, KCAU-TV was sold to Citadel Communications; Henry, who also served as the station's promotions manager, was fired along with 21 other staffers in a house-cleaning effort, and the show was canceled. Henry's Canyon Kid's vest was displayed at a Sioux City Applebee's, and he later became an insurance agent. After his death in February 2014 at age 89, the Orpheum Theatre in Sioux City honored him with a tribute on its marquee for his role in shaping the show.