May 17

Asa Packer was an American businessman born in Mystic, Connecticut, in 1805. He began his career as a canal boat contractor before investing in railroad construction, founding the Lehigh Valley Railroad. Packer’s leadership in transportation and coal industries contributed significantly to the economic development of Pennsylvania. In 1865, he donated land and funds to establish Lehigh University, envisioning a technical institution to train engineers. His philanthropy extended to educational and community causes, leaving a lasting civic legacy. Packer’s entrepreneurial spirit and charitable vision influenced generations of industrial and educational leaders. He died in 1879, honored as a pioneer of American industrial expansion.

John Deere was born in 1804 and trained as a blacksmith in Vermont. In 1837, he invented the first successful self-scouring steel plow, transforming agriculture in the American Midwest. His innovative design allowed farmers to work through sticky prairie soil with ease. The following year, he established Deere & Company in Grand Detour, Illinois, which grew into a global leader in farm machinery. Deere emphasized quality and durability, setting new standards in agricultural tools. His company expanded its product lines and distribution network across the United States. Today, Deere & Company remains one of the world’s largest agricultural equipment manufacturers, bearing his name.

Frederick August Otto Schwarz was born in 1836 in Westphalia, Germany, and emigrated to the United States as a young man. In 1862, he opened a small toy shop in Baltimore that evolved into FAO Schwarz, one of the most famous toy stores in the world. Schwarz’s emphasis on high-quality, European-style merchandise and his flair for presentation attracted customers from all walks of life. He created a luxurious in-store experience with elaborate toy displays and personal service that set new standards in retail. His family expanded the business to New York City and beyond, cementing the store’s reputation for wonder and elegance. FAO Schwarz became a cultural landmark featured in films and literature. Today, the brand remains synonymous with childhood nostalgia, honoring Schwarz’s legacy.

Born in 1922, C. P. Krishnan Nair transformed India's hospitality landscape by founding The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, beginning with flagship properties in major cities. His vision combined luxurious amenities with authentic Indian art, cuisine, and service traditions, setting his hotels apart in the global market. Over time, Nair guided the group's expansion to international destinations, introducing the brand's signature hospitality frame worldwide. He championed collaboration with local craftspeople and incorporated cultural motifs throughout his properties to offer guests an immersive experience. Recognized with numerous awards, Nair also served as a mentor and thought leader in the tourism industry until his death in 2014.