September 05

Jonas Hanway was born in Portsmouth in 1712 and made his fortune as a merchant with the Russia Company, traveling extensively and observing social conditions. Outraged by the plight of orphans, he established the Marine Society in 1756 to recruit and support young men for the Royal Navy. He campaigned tirelessly for charity schools, street lighting and public welfare reforms. Hanway is also remembered for introducing the umbrella to Britain and facing ridicule from his contemporaries for carrying one in public. His extensive writings and diaries document his social crusades and adventures. He died in 1786, leaving a legacy of practical philanthropy that inspired later reformers.

Born in 1849 in Memphis, Tennessee, Robert Means Thompson graduated from the United States Naval Academy and served as a naval officer in the late 19th century. After leaving the military, he built a successful career in the mining and metals industry, founding and leading several companies. His entrepreneurial success enabled substantial philanthropic donations to education and veteran organizations, including endowments at the United States Naval Academy. Thompson's career exemplified the integration of military discipline, industrial innovation, and civic responsibility. He passed away in 1930, remembered for his multifaceted contributions to American society.

Born in 1878 in Krichev, Russian Empire (now in Belarus), Sidney Myer immigrated to Australia in 1899, initially working as a traveling salesman. He opened his first drapery store in Bendigo, Victoria, and expanded into the Myer Emporium, which grew into the nation's largest department store chain. Myer's innovative retail strategies, including fixed prices and money-back guarantees, transformed the shopping experience in Australia. Beyond business, he was a philanthropist, funding community centers, medical research, and cultural programs, and helped establish the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne. His commitment to employee welfare and social responsibility set new standards in corporate citizenship. Myer died in 1934 but his legacy endures through the continued success of the Myer brand and his philanthropic foundations.

Jerry Iger began his career drawing comic strips during the early days of the medium. In 1936, he partnered with Will Eisner to create Eisner & Iger, one of the first comic book packaging studios supplying material to publishers. Their studio launched the careers of many legendary artists and contributed to the Golden Age of Comics. Iger's keen editorial vision and business acumen helped professionalize the industry and expand its creative reach. He later founded the Novelty Press and continued to shape comic book publishing practices. His legacy is seen in the enduring popularity of characters and storytelling techniques his studio developed.

Bryce Stuart Mackasey (1921-1999) was a Canadian entrepreneur and Liberal Member of Parliament. He represented the Quebec ridings of Verdun and Saint-Léonard during his political career. In 1974, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau appointed him Postmaster General. Before politics, he built a successful career in real estate and transportation. As Postmaster General, he oversaw modernization initiatives within Canada Post. After leaving office, he continued his business ventures until his death in 1999.

Born in 1923, Goh Eng Wah pioneered the cinema and entertainment industry in Southeast Asia. He established Eng Wah Global, building one of the region’s largest cinema chains. Under his leadership, the company expanded into film distribution and digital media. Goh was known for his entrepreneurial vision and commitment to bringing quality entertainment to audiences. He also invested in community projects and supported local talent development. His impact on the regional entertainment landscape remains influential today.

Born in 1929, Chester Stranczek began his career as a professional baseball player in the minor leagues. After retiring from sports, he founded successful businesses in real estate and property management. Stranczek served as mayor of Crestwood, Illinois, for over 30 years, focusing on fiscal responsibility. Under his leadership, the village implemented innovative budgeting and service improvements. He was admired for his entrepreneurial spirit and community-oriented governance. Stranczek's dual legacy in sports and civic leadership continues to resonate locally.