Harron Communications history

Harron recognized the potential of television during the 1950’s, he turned his attention to acquiring and operating broadcast television stations.

1952: John Rigas and his brother, Gus, found Adelphia with the purchase of their first cable franchise in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, for $300.

Paul Harron Sr. started out selling advertising in vaudeville, then bought a radio station and some television stations before setting up the family's first cable system in Utica, N.Y., in 1963.

From the $30 million generated in sales during its first year, annual sales shot up to $131 million in 1988, increasing more than fourfold during a three-year span.

One significant acquisition was the purchase of Jones Intercable in late 1989.

In January 1990, the company announced it would start a five-year, $25 million system upgrade.

1991: The company establishes Adelphia Business Solutions, a subsidiary, to provide a range of communications products to the business community, including high-speed Internet access, long distance phone service, and voice messaging.

In 1994 the company agreed to purchase all the cable systems owned by WB Cable Association, Clear Channels Cable TV, and those owned by the Benjamin Terry family.

1998: Adelphia reaches a customer base of over two million subscribers.

The company grew to serve over 300,000 customers in seven states, and was ultimately sold in 1999 to Adelphia Communications.

20, 2000). The Chandler family, who hold the controlling interest in Times Mirror Co., which is being sold to Tribune Co., started a $550 million venture fund, TMCT Ventures, in Santa Monica, Calif., last fall.

Adelphia moved to delay filing its 2001 annual report and restate its financial results for the past three years in order to clarify and properly account for the debt.