April 07

Phineas Taylor Barnum was born in 1810 and rose from humble beginnings to become one of America’s most famous showmen. He founded Barnum’s American Museum in New York, showcasing oddities and curiosities that captivated the public. In 1871, he partnered with James Bailey to establish the Barnum & Bailey Circus, billed as 'The Greatest Show on Earth.' Barnum also served two terms in the Connecticut legislature and briefly as mayor of Bridgeport. His flair for publicity, promotion, and entertainment revolutionized popular culture and laid the groundwork for modern circuses.

Henry Ford (1863–1947) was an American engineer and entrepreneur who founded the Ford Motor Company in 1903. He introduced the Model T in 1908, making car ownership affordable for the masses and transforming personal transportation. His development of the moving assembly line in 1913 reduced production time and costs, setting new standards in manufacturing. Ford’s innovations spurred economic growth but also sparked debates over labor practices and corporate power. He expanded his operations globally, and his legacy endures in the automotive industry and modern industrial management.

Born in 1931 in Roslyn, New York, Lilly Pulitzer founded her namesake fashion label in Palm Beach, Florida and became famous for vibrant floral patterns. She began designing dresses to camouflage juice stains while running her family's juice stand. Her cheerful prints and preppy styles gained popularity among American socialites and celebrities in the 1960s. The brand grew into a cultural icon known for effortless elegance and resort wear. After retiring in the early 1980s, her designs were revived in the 1990s and continue to inspire fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Pulitzer authored an autobiography and remained active in design until her passing in 2013. Her legacy endures through a global lifestyle brand that bears her name.