Mahlon Kline

Mahlon Kline (1853–1930) was an American businessman and pharmaceutical industry pioneer. He is best known for his role in the development and expansion of Smith, Kline & French, a major pharmaceutical company that is now part of GlaxoSmithKline.

Early life and education

Mahlon Kline was born in 1853 in Pennsylvania. Little is known about his early life and education, but it is known that he entered the pharmaceutical industry at a young age.

Career

In 1875, Kline joined the drug manufacturing firm Smith & Shoemaker, which was later renamed Smith, Kline & Co. after Kline and John K. Smith became partners. Kline played a crucial role in the company's growth and expansion. Under his leadership, the company introduced several innovative products and practices, including the production of digoxin, a drug used to treat heart conditions.

In 1891, the company was again renamed, this time to Smith, Kline & French, reflecting the addition of Frederick B. French to the partnership. Kline continued to lead the company until his retirement in 1929.

Legacy

Mahlon Kline's contributions to the pharmaceutical industry were significant. His leadership and innovative practices helped shape the future of Smith, Kline & French, and his influence can still be seen in the company's modern incarnation, GlaxoSmithKline.

See also

• Smith, Kline & French
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Pharmaceutical industry in the United States