Marjorie Merriweather Post

Marjorie Merriweather Post Hutton Davies NYWTS

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Carlton Skinner aboard the Sea Cloud

Marjorie Merriweather Post (March 15, 1887 – September 12, 1973) was an American businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist, and collector. She was the owner of General Foods, Inc., and through her wealth and influence, became a prominent figure in American society, known for her lavish lifestyle, her philanthropic efforts, and her significant art and jewelry collection.

Early Life

Marjorie Merriweather Post was born in Springfield, Illinois, the daughter of C.W. Post, the founder of the Postum Cereal Company, which later became General Foods Corporation. She inherited the company upon her father's death in 1914, becoming one of the wealthiest women in the United States.

Career

Under Marjorie's leadership, General Foods expanded significantly. She was instrumental in the acquisition of several companies, including Birds Eye Frozen Foods and Jell-O, which became staples in American households. Her business acumen was widely recognized, and she played a crucial role in the company's growth into a multinational corporation.

Philanthropy

Marjorie Merriweather Post was known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of health, education, and the arts. She donated to various causes and institutions, including the establishment of the Marjorie Merriweather Post Foundation, which supported cultural and charitable activities. She was also a significant benefactor of the National Symphony Orchestra and contributed to the construction of several hospitals and schools.

Personal Life

Post was married four times, with her marriages to E.F. Hutton, Joseph E. Davies, and Herbert May attracting public attention. She had three daughters, who inherited her philanthropic spirit and continued her legacy in various fields.

Legacy

Marjorie Merriweather Post's legacy is preserved in several ways. Her former estate, Mar-a-Lago, in Palm Beach, Florida, is a notable example of her luxurious lifestyle and is now a private club. Another of her residences, Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, in Washington, D.C., houses her extensive collection of Russian imperial art and French decorative arts, open to the public as a museum.

Death

Marjorie Merriweather Post died on September 12, 1973, in her Hillwood Estate. Her death marked the end of an era, but her contributions to American society and culture continue to be celebrated.