Categories: History of Blackburn

Blackburn Group continues its media expansion by acquiring CKNX-TV and CKNX-AM Radio in Wingham, Ontario. 

Looking to expand their media empire, The London Free Press Printing Co. Ltd. files an application for the operation of a television station to serve the London area. Shortly after the application, the CBC approves the request; thus, creating CFPL-TV.

The Blackburn Group applies for a licence to operate a new FM station in London. Upon approval, CFPL-FM is created.

In an effort to get to breaking news scenes quickly, The London Free Press purchases a twin engine Cessna Crane aircraft to transport their reporters.

With Arthur Blackburn’s passing, the company is taken over by his son Walter. Despite being only 21 and fresh off of receiving his HBA from the University of Western Ontario, Walter Blackburn would now be in charge of CFPL-AM and the London Free Press.

The merger between CJGC and CKOK sparked outrage from London residents and businessmen, forcing the Blackburns to withdraw from their partnership and open a new station in London, CFPL-AM.

Unhappy with the growth of radio, Aurthur Blackburn strikes up a deal to merge CJGC-AM with Windsor’s CKOK-AM. CKLW-AM is born, with the goal to serve both the London and Windsor Market.

Blackburn is granted one of the first radio licenses in Canada and opens their first radio station, CJGC-AM.

Josiah Blackburn passes away and is succeeded by his son, Arthur Blackburn.