John P. Harris

John Paul Harris (died January 26, 1926 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania) was a Pittsburgh businessman and politician who opened the world's first theater devoted entirely to showing Motion pictures.

Harris' work in the entertainment industry began at Harris Comedy and Specialty Co., a company run by his father that produced vaudeville shows. In 1897 Harris Comedy and Specialty Co. showed Pittsburgh's first motion picture. On June 19, 1905, Harris and his brother-in-law, Harry Davis opened a small film theatre on a Smithfield Street storefront in Downtown Pittsburgh. The theatre, known as the Nickelodeon, was the first devoted exclusively for the exhibition of movies.

In addition to owning theaters, Harris held shares in two National League baseball clubs. From November 15, 1910 to December 17, 1910, Harris served as the principal owner of the Boston Doves. Following his sale of the Boston club, Harris purchased interest in the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Harris was also involved in politics. From 1922 until his death he represented the 45th District in the Pennsylvania State Senate.

The Harris Theater in Pittsburgh is named in honor of Harris.

The John P. Harris Film Society, Point Park University's cinema club, is named after Harris.

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