A wealthy oil tycoon who donated millions to various institutions, including Yale University, and supported the development of the New York Public Library.
Edward Stephen Harkness, a name synonymous with philanthropy, left an indelible mark on the world of education, art, and medicine. Through his private gifts and the Commonwealth Fund, he bestowed upon the Northeastern United States some of the largest donations of the early 20th century, cementing his legacy as a benefactor to esteemed institutions.
Born on January 22, 1874, in Cleveland, Ohio, Edward Ned Harkness was one of four sons to Anna M. Harkness and Stephen V. Harkness, a harnessmaker who invested in and became one of the five founding partners of Standard Oil, John D. Rockefeller's oil company. After his father's passing when Edward was just 14, his mother and oldest brother, Charles, managed the estate, setting the stage for Edward's future philanthropic endeavors.
Harkness attended St. Paul's School and later graduated from Yale College in 1897, where he was a member of the Wolfs Head Society alongside his brother Charles and cousin William. He went on to attend Columbia Law School, solidifying his foundation in education and law.
Edward Harkness' philanthropic efforts knew no bounds, with gifts to private hospitals, art museums, and educational institutions that resonated deeply across the Northeastern United States. He was a major benefactor to:
These institutions continue to thrive, thanks in part to Harkness' unwavering commitment to education and the arts.
In recognition of his remarkable contributions, Edward Harkness was elected a member of the American Philosophical Society in 1934, a testament to his dedication to the betterment of society.
In 1918, Forbes magazine ranked Harkness the 6th richest person in the United States, behind industry giants John D. Rockefeller, Henry Clay Frick, Andrew Carnegie, George Fisher Baker, and William Rockefeller. His inherited fortune, coupled with his brother's and cousin's wealth, facilitated his philanthropic endeavors, leaving an enduring impact on the world.
Edward Harkness' philanthropy transcended generations, shaping the course of education, art, and medicine in the Northeastern United States. His legacy serves as a beacon, inspiring future generations to strive for a better world through philanthropy and social responsibility.
In the words of Henry Sloane Coffin, Harkness' friend and tutor at Yale, "Ned's generosity was not a thing apart, but a characteristic of his whole life, a part of his daily thought and action."
Edward Stephen Harkness passed away on January 29, 1940, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and uplift society. His philanthropic spirit, generosity, and commitment to the betterment of humanity have cemented his place in the annals of history as one of the most remarkable figures of the early 20th century.
Born in 1839
Founded the Standard Oil Company, revolutionizing the oil industry and amassing vast wealth, which he later used for philanthropic efforts. He's remembered for his business acumen and generosity.
Born in 1835
A self-made industrialist who amassed a vast fortune in the steel industry, then donated most of it to fund over 2,500 public libraries and other philanthropic endeavors.
Born in 1794
Built railroad empires, revolutionizing transportation and commerce, and donated extensively to education and the arts.
Born in 1837
Founded a powerful banking dynasty and dominated corporate finance, shaping the American economy through strategic investments and mergers.
Born in 1863
Founded the pioneering automobile manufacturing company that revolutionized the industry with the assembly line production method, making cars more affordable and accessible to the masses.
Born in 1855
A financier and diplomat who served as Secretary of the Treasury, known for shaping the country's economic policies and overseeing the Federal Reserve System. He also founded the National Gallery of Art.
69 Years Old
A talented comedic actor with a distinctive voice, best known for his roles in TV shows like "Mad About You" and "Spin City", as well as iconic films like "Inside Out" and "A Bug's Life".
Born in 1649
A wealthy merchant who made his fortune in the East India Company and later donated generously to the Collegiate School of Connecticut, which was renamed Yale College in his honor.
