Herman Ossian Armour

Herman O. Armour

Herman Ossian Armour (March 7, 1837 – September 8, 1901) was an American businessman and co-founder of the meatpacking firm Armour and Company. He played a significant role in the development of the meatpacking industry in the United States during the late 19th century.

Early Life

Herman Ossian Armour was born on March 7, 1837, in Stockbridge, New York. He was the son of Danforth Armour and Juliana Ann Brooks. Herman grew up in a family that valued hard work and entrepreneurship, which would later influence his career in the meatpacking industry.

Career

In 1867, Herman, along with his brother Philip Danforth Armour, founded Armour and Company in Chicago, Illinois. The company quickly became one of the largest meatpacking firms in the United States, revolutionizing the industry with innovations in refrigeration and meat processing.

Armour and Company

Armour and Company was known for its efficient and large-scale operations. The company utilized the latest technology in refrigeration, which allowed them to transport meat products over long distances without spoilage. This innovation was crucial in expanding the market for meat products across the country.

Herman Armour was instrumental in the financial and administrative aspects of the business, while his brother Philip focused on the operational side. Together, they built a business empire that not only dominated the meatpacking industry but also had significant impacts on related industries such as transportation and agriculture.

Personal Life

Herman Ossian Armour married Mary Augusta Williams in 1862. The couple had several children and were known for their philanthropic efforts in the Chicago area. Herman was also involved in various civic activities and was a prominent figure in the business community.

Death

Herman Ossian Armour passed away on September 8, 1901, in New York City. He left behind a legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship that continued to influence the meatpacking industry long after his death.

Legacy

The contributions of Herman Ossian Armour to the meatpacking industry are still recognized today. Armour and Company remained a major player in the industry for many years and set standards for efficiency and innovation that are still followed.

Related Pages

• Philip Danforth Armour
• Armour and Company
• Meatpacking industry
• Refrigeration
• Chicago, Illinois