United Communications Corporation: A History of Family-Owned Media
Founded on a commitment to local journalism and broadcasting, United Communications Corporation (UCC) has evolved from a single newspaper purchase into a diversified media entity. Established in 1961 by the Brown family, the company has spent over six decades expanding its footprint across print and television markets in the United States.
Early Expansion and Print Growth
The company's journey began in 1961 with the acquisition of the News. Throughout the 1970s, UCC expanded its presence in Massachusetts by acquiring two competing publications: the Attleboro Sun and the North Attleborough Chronicle. To streamline operations and strengthen its local reach, the company merged these two entities into a single publication known as The Sun Chronicle.
Venturing into Television Broadcasting
UCC's entry into the television industry was driven by regulatory requirements. Due to competition rules mandated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)—the government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications—the company acquired two stations through forced sales.
- n
- In 1977, UCC purchased KEYC-TV in Mankato, Minnesota, from the national media chain Lee Enterprises. n
- In 1981, the company acquired WWNY-TV for $8.2 million from the Watertown Daily Times of Watertown, New York. n
21st Century Developments
The turn of the millennium saw the final additions to the UCC portfolio. In 2001, the company founded WNYF-LP, a low-power television station based in Watertown, New York. This was followed in 2002 by the acquisition of the Watertown Public Opinion, a newspaper serving eastern South Dakota.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]
Key Facts
- n
- Founded: 1961 by the Brown family. n
- Key Print Assets: The Sun Chronicle and the Watertown Public Opinion. n
- Television Assets: WWNY-TV, KEYC-TV, and WNYF-LP. n
- Major Acquisition: WWNY-TV purchased for $8.2 million in 1981. n
- Current Leadership: Lucy Brown Minn (President) and Elizabeth K. Brown (Chairwoman). n
Company Overview Summary
| Year | Asset/Event | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1961 | The News | Unknown | |
| 1970s | The Sun Chronicle | Massachusetts | |
| 1977 | KEYC-TV | Television | Minnesota |
| 1981 | WWNY-TV | Television | New York |
| 2001 | WNYF-LP | Television | New York |
| 2002 | Watertown Public Opinion | South Dakota |
Leadership Transition
The company has remained under the stewardship of the Brown family. Following the death of Owner and President Howard J. Brown on April 29, 2011, the leadership transitioned to the next generation. In March 2013, his daughter, Lucy Brown Minn, was appointed president of the company, while his wife, Elizabeth K. Brown, serves as the chairwoman of the board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded United Communications Corporation?
The company was founded in 1961 by the Brown family.
How did UCC enter the television market?
UCC entered the television business through two sales mandated by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) competition rules, acquiring KEYC-TV in 1977 and WWNY-TV in 1981.
What is The Sun Chronicle?
The Sun Chronicle is a Massachusetts newspaper formed by the merger of the Attleboro Sun and the North Attleborough Chronicle during the 1970s.
Who currently leads the company?
Lucy Brown Minn serves as the president of the company, and Elizabeth K. Brown serves as the chairwoman of the board.
What was the purchase price of WWNY-TV?
WWNY-TV was purchased for $8.2 million in 1981.