John Wanamaker

John Wanamaker, 1890

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City Hall and John Wanamakers, Philadelphia, Pa., U.S.A, by Kilburn, B. W. (Benjamin West), 1827-1909

INTERIOR COURT - John Wanamaker Store, Thirteenth and Chestnut Streets, Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, PA HABS PA,51-PHILA,370-2

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Wanamaker family tomb at Philadelphia churchyard of St

Statue (Reproduction) of Seated Hermes

John Wanamaker (July 11, 1838 – December 12, 1922) was an innovative American merchant, religious leader, civic and political figure, considered by many as a pioneer in marketing. He opened one of the first and most successful department stores in the United States, which set the standard for modern retailing. His Philadelphia-based store, Wanamaker's, was the first department store to offer fixed prices marked on every item, replacing the common practice of haggling. Wanamaker also introduced the first department store Christmas window displays and the concept of the money-back guarantee.

Early Life

John Wanamaker was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Nelson Wanamaker and Elizabeth Kochersperger. He was the eldest of eleven children. The Wanamaker family was deeply religious, a trait that John carried throughout his life, influencing his business practices and philanthropic efforts. At the age of 14, he left school to work in a bookstore, where he gained an appreciation for business and retail.

Career

In 1861, Wanamaker and his brother-in-law, Nathan Brown, opened a men's clothing store in Philadelphia called Oak Hall. The store became successful, partly due to Wanamaker's innovative business practices, such as one-price system and money-back guarantee. In 1875, he purchased the abandoned Pennsylvania Railroad station for use as a new, larger store, which he named "Grand Depot". This evolved into Wanamaker's department store, a retail emporium that included diverse merchandise under one roof, a revolutionary concept at the time.

Wanamaker's innovations in retail included the introduction of price tags, widespread advertising, and the use of pneumatic tubes for cash and document transport within the store. He was also a pioneer in employee relations, offering his staff free medical care, education, recreational facilities, pensions, and profit-sharing plans.

Philanthropy and Civic Engagement

Wanamaker was deeply involved in civic and philanthropic activities. He founded the Bethany Sunday School in Philadelphia, which became the largest Sunday School in the United States. He was also active in the YMCA, and his contributions to education included the establishment of a school for young men. Wanamaker's interest in education and moral reform was reflected in his support for Prohibition and various social reform movements of the time.

Political Career

Wanamaker served as United States Postmaster General under President Benjamin Harrison from 1889 to 1893. During his tenure, he was instrumental in modernizing the United States Postal Service, introducing rural free delivery and the first commemorative stamp.

Legacy

John Wanamaker's impact on American retail and culture was profound. His innovations laid the groundwork for the modern department store and significantly influenced the development of American consumer culture. The Wanamaker Building in Philadelphia, a National Historic Landmark, stands as a testament to his achievements in retail. Wanamaker was also commemorated with a bronze statue in Philadelphia's City Hall.

Wanamaker's philosophy of business, emphasizing honesty, fairness, and a commitment to the customer, set a standard for ethical business practices. His legacy continues to influence the retail industry and American society at large.