Barron Hilton

William Barron Hilton (born October 23, 1927) is an American business magnate, socialite, and hotel heir. As son and successor of hotel pioneer Conrad Hilton, he has created a record in business and philanthropy that mirrored the success of his famous father. He is the retired chairman, president and chief executive officer of Hilton Hotels Corporation, and chairman emeritus of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. Hilton was also a founding partner of the American Football League and the original owner of the San Diego Chargers.

Early life

Hilton was born in Dallas, Texas, the son of Mary Adelaide (née Barron; 1906–1966) and Conrad Nicholson Hilton (1887–1979), founder of Hilton Hotels. Hilton grew up with three siblings: Conrad Nicholson Hilton, Jr., Eric Michael Hilton, and Constance Francesca Hilton. His father was of half Norwegian and half German descent, and his mother was from Kentucky.

He served in the Navy during World War II as a photographer. As a child, Hilton was fascinated by aviation, and learned to fly when he was 17. After his wartime discharge, he attended the University of Southern California Aeronautical School, where he earned his twin-engine rating at age 19.