Miss Nancy, original host of `Romper Room,' dies at 82

Nancy Claster, who played teacher Miss Nancy on the original children's television show "Romper Room" from 1953 until 1964, died Friday of cancer at her home. She was 82.

Created by Claster's husband, Bert, "Romper Room" first aired on Baltimore station WBAL. It was so successful that the Clasters trained other hosts and locally produced "Romper Room" shows in 150 cities.Nancy Claster, who had a teaching degree, debuted on the show after the original teacher scheduled to appear canceled. In a classroom setting, she read nursery rhymes, sang songs, played games and taught safety lessons with a small group of preschoolers.