September 06

Sir John Morden (1623–1708) was an influential English merchant active in the Levant Company’s trading ventures. Knighted as a baronet in 1688, he accumulated substantial wealth through Mediterranean commerce. In 1695, Morden established Morden College in Blackheath, London, to provide housing and support for impoverished former merchants and their widows. His philanthropic vision emphasized dignity and community for those who had served the mercantile class. The college buildings and endowment remain a testament to his commitment to social welfare and continue to operate today.

Born in Hamburg in 1815, Charles Jamrach moved to London and established what became the largest exotic animal emporium of the era. He imported wildlife from around the world, supplying zoos, collectors, and private menageries. His shop on the East India Docks was famous for its Bengal tiger incident when a tiger escaped and roamed the streets. Jamrach’s enterprise contributed to the Victorian fascination with exotic fauna and advanced zoological knowledge. He maintained correspondence with naturalists and collectors and left a legacy in the world of animal trade until his death in 1891.

Adolf 'Adi' Dassler began crafting athletic shoes in his mother's laundry room in 1924. He founded Adidas in 1949 after splitting from his brother Rudolf, focusing on performance-driven footwear. Dassler's designs featured innovations like screw-in studs and lightweight materials for athletes. His shoes gained worldwide attention when Jesse Owens wore them at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Under his leadership, Adidas expanded into a global brand synonymous with sports and style. Dassler emphasized research and development, earning a reputation for cutting-edge shoe technology. His entrepreneurial vision laid the foundation for the modern sports apparel industry.

Richard DeVos was born in 1926 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and co-founded Amway in 1959, building it into one of the world’s largest direct-selling companies. Under his leadership, Amway expanded globally, offering entrepreneurs an opportunity to build businesses of their own. DeVos also founded the Windquest Group, focusing on real estate and manufacturing ventures. A committed philanthropist, he and his wife supported education, health care, and children’s charities through the Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation. DeVos was active in Republican politics and donated to various causes. He authored several books on business and leadership. He passed away in 2018, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurship and civic engagement.