Skip to Main Content

Astoria, Oregon: Site of First Cable Television

Leroy "Ed" Parsons created cable TV in 1949 when he ran a cable from the highest antenna in Astoria to his apartment, and then later patched in his eager neighbors. The monument was rebuilt for the 2005 restoration of the Astoria Column.

Address:
1 Coxcomb Drive, Astoria, OR
Directions:
The monument is at the east edge of the plaza that surrounds the base of the Astoria Column. From US Hwy 30 turn uphill on 16th St. to Jerome Ave., right to 15th St., left on Coxcomb Drive to column. Small parking fee.
Hours:
Dawn-dusk (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
503-325-2963
Admission:
$5 parking fee.
Save to My Sights

Visitor Tips and News About Site of First Cable Television

Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.

Marker noting the first cable television.

Site of First Cable Television

Monument marks the site of first cable television in United States.

[Susan Sealy, 10/19/2012]

Leroy "Ed" Parsons created cable TV in 1949 when he ran a cable from the highest antenna in Astoria to his apartment, and then later patched in his eager neighbors. The monument was rebuilt for the 2005 restoration of the Astoria Column.


Nearby Offbeat Places

Astoria ColumnAstoria Column, Astoria, OR - < 1 mi.
Columbia River Maritime MuseumColumbia River Maritime Museum, Astoria, OR - < 1 mi.
Food Truck in a BoatFood Truck in a Boat, Astoria, OR - < 1 mi.
In the region:
Tillamook Cheese Factory: Free Cheese, Tillamook, OR - 48 mi.

Latest Tips Across Roadside America

Catch up on the latest discoveries from the road.

Explore Thousands of Oddball Tourist Attractions!

Unique destinations in the U.S. and Canada are our special obsession. Use our attraction recommendation and maps to plan your next road trip.

My Sights

My Sights on Roadside America

Create Your Own Bizarre Road Trips! ...Try My Sights

Mobile Apps

Roadside America app: iPhone, iPad Roadside America app for iPhone, iPad. On-route maps, 1,000s of photos, special research targets! ...More

Roadside Presidents app: iPhone, iPad Roadside Presidents app for iPhone, iPad. POTUS landmarks, oddities. ...More

Oregon Latest Tips and Stories

Latest Visitor Tips

Sight of the Week

Sight of the Week

Easter Island Moai in America (Mar 25-31, 2024)

SotW Archive

USA and Canada Tips and Stories

More Sightings

Favorite Quirky City Sights