General Tire and Rubber Company

General Tire and Rubber Company. Founded in 1915 in Akron, Ohio, the company grew from a regional tire manufacturer into a major American industrial conglomerate. It became renowned for its innovative tire technology, significant presence in motorsports, and diverse holdings in aerospace and broadcasting. The company's operations were ultimately acquired by the German automotive parts giant Continental AG in 1987.

History

The company was incorporated on September 29, 1915, by co-founders William O'Neil and Winfred E. Fouse, capitalizing on the booming automotive industry centered in Akron, Ohio. A key early innovation was the introduction of the low-pressure "General Balloon Jumbo" tire in the 1920s, which improved ride comfort and helped the company survive the Great Depression. Expansion continued with the 1930s acquisition of the Dewey and Almy Chemical Company, marking a strategic move into industrial chemicals. During World War II, the company was a major supplier to the United States Armed Forces, producing tires, inflatable boats, and other rubber goods for the war effort. Post-war growth was fueled by diversification, leading to the 1955 acquisition of Aerojet-General, a leader in rocket propulsion and aerospace technology. The company further expanded its portfolio by purchasing the RKO General broadcasting division from the RKO Pictures film studio, giving it a substantial presence in television and radio.

Products and operations

The core business remained the manufacture of tires for passenger cars, trucks, and off-road vehicles, sold under the "General Tire" brand. The company was a pioneer in developing the modern all-season tire and later the run-flat tire technology. Through its Aerojet-General subsidiary, it became a primary contractor for the United States Department of Defense and NASA, producing engines for the Minuteman missile and the Apollo program's Service Module. The RKO General subsidiary owned and operated major television stations like WOR-TV in New York City and KHJ-TV in Los Angeles, along with a large network of AM and FM radio stations. Other industrial operations included the production of conveyor belts, hoses, and various molded rubber products through divisions like the General Tire International Company.

Motorsports involvement

The company established a formidable reputation in motorsports, particularly in off-road racing and stock car racing. Its "Grabber" line of off-road tires became iconic in events like the Baja 1000 and Mint 400, often used by legendary drivers such as Parnelli Jones and Walker Evans. In NASCAR, General Tire was the exclusive tire supplier for the NASCAR Grand National Series from 1965 through 1970, a period that included victories by champions like David Pearson and Richard Petty. The company also had a notable presence in sports car racing, including the IMSA GT Championship, and sponsored successful teams in USAC and Champ Car open-wheel competition. This extensive racing program was crucial for marketing and for the real-world development of its high-performance tire technology.

Corporate affairs

For much of its history, the company was led by the O'Neil family, with William O'Neil serving as president until 1952, followed by his son, Thomas F. O'Neil. Its corporate structure evolved into a multi-industry conglomerate, with major divisions in tires, aerospace, chemicals, and broadcasting. In the 1980s, facing increased competition from global tire makers like Michelin and Bridgestone, the company began to divest assets. The Aerojet-General subsidiary was sold to GenCorp in 1985. The broadcasting division, RKO General, became embroiled in a lengthy license-renewal battle with the Federal Communications Commission that ultimately led to its dissolution. The remaining tire and rubber operations were purchased in 1987 by Continental AG, which continued to market tires under the General brand in North America.

Legacy and impact

The company left a lasting mark on multiple industries, from its foundational role in the Akron, Ohio tire manufacturing hub to its critical contributions to the Space Race through Aerojet-General. Its motorsports heritage cemented the General brand's image for durability and performance, particularly in off-road culture. The RKO General subsidiary played a significant role in the history of American broadcasting, though its controversial end affected FCC regulatory practices. The General Tire brand name endures as a major product line under Continental AG, maintaining a presence in the global tire market. The company's evolution from a single-product manufacturer to a diversified industrial giant exemplifies a key trend in mid-20th century American corporate history.

Category:Vehicle parts manufacturers of the United States Category:Companies based in Akron, Ohio Category:Defunct manufacturing companies based in Ohio