William Barron Hilton I

Guide Note

Son of Hilton hotel founder Conrad Hilton, William Barron Hilton I is the grandfather of Paris Hilton and controls the family fortune.

At the age of 26, Hilton was named the vice president of Hilton Hotels in 1954. He also worked with several other businesses, including credit cards, fruit juice, and oil.

In 1960, Hilton founded the Los Angeles Chargers in the American Football League. He moved the team from Los Angeles to San Diego in 1961.

In 1966 Hilton took over from his father as president of Hilton Hotels. His father died in 1979, leaving most of his trust to charity. Hilton successfully regained ownership of the trust after a 1988 lawsuit.

Hilton announced in late 2007 that he will be giving 97% of the Hilton family fortune to the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation upon his death. Many have speculated that he is ashamed of the behavior of his granddaughter Paris, prompting him to make this decision.

Fast Facts

1. Born: October 23, 1927
2. Birthplace: Dallas, Texas
3. AKA: Barron Hilton
4. Conrad N. Hilton Foundation will receive bulk of estate