Anson Goodyear

A. Conger Goodyear (Army officer, businessman, philanthropist)

Anson Goodyear

Anson Conger Goodyear (June 20, 1877 – April 24, 1964) was an American businessman and philanthropist, best known for his role as a founding member and the first president of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

Early Life and Education

Anson Goodyear was born in Buffalo, New York, to a prominent family involved in the lumber and railroad industries. He was the son of Charles W. Goodyear and Ella Portia Conger. He attended Yale University, where he was a member of the Skull and Bones society, graduating in 1899.

Career

After completing his education, Goodyear joined the family business, the Goodyear Lumber Company, and later became involved in various other enterprises, including the Great Southern Lumber Company and the Buffalo and Susquehanna Railroad. His business acumen extended to the oil and banking industries as well.

Philanthropy and Art Patronage

Goodyear's most notable contribution to the arts was his involvement with the Museum of Modern Art. Along with Abby Aldrich Rockefeller, Lillie P. Bliss, and Mary Quinn Sullivan, he helped establish MoMA in 1929. As the first president of the museum, he played a crucial role in its early development and the acquisition of significant works of modern art.

Personal Life

Anson Goodyear married Mary Foreman in 1904, and they had three children. He was also an avid art collector and a supporter of various cultural and educational institutions.

Death

Anson Goodyear passed away on April 24, 1964, in Old Westbury, New York. His legacy continues through his contributions to the art world and his philanthropic efforts.

Related Pages

• Museum of Modern Art
• Abby Aldrich Rockefeller
• Lillie P. Bliss
• Mary Quinn Sullivan
• Buffalo, New York
• Yale University