Joy Morton

Early Life

Joy Morton was born on September 27, 1855, in Detroit, Michigan. He was the eldest son of J. Sterling Morton, who was the founder of Arbor Day and a Secretary of Agriculture in the Grover Cleveland administration. His mother, Caroline Joy, was a school teacher.

Education

Joy Morton attended the Nebraska State University, now known as the University of Nebraska. He did not graduate, leaving the university in 1872 to begin his career in business.

Career

Morton began his career in the business world at the age of 17, working for the Nebraska City National Bank. He later moved to Chicago, where he worked for several years in the grain and elevator business. In 1886, he became the president of the Nebraska Salt Company.

In 1899, Morton founded the Morton Salt Company, which became one of the largest salt producers in the world. The company's iconic "When It Rains It Pours" slogan and logo, featuring a girl with an umbrella, became one of the most recognized in American business.

Morton was a visionary businessman, introducing innovative marketing strategies and improving production methods. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the area of conservation.

A black and white photograph of Joy Morton, a man in his late fifties, wearing a suit and tie, looking towards the camera.

Philanthropy and Conservation

Morton was deeply committed to conservation and philanthropy. He established the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, Illinois, in 1922. The Morton Arboretum is a 1,700-acre living museum that champions trees through plant collections, science and conservation, education, and outreach.

Morton also played a significant role in the establishment of the Save the Redwoods League in California, which was instrumental in preserving the state's redwood forests.

Personal Life

Morton married Carrie Lake in 1879. The couple had three children: Mark, Paul, and Carl. Morton was a private man, preferring to keep his personal life out of the public eye. He was known to be a dedicated family man and a lover of nature.

Death and Legacy

Joy Morton died on May 10, 1934, in Chicago, Illinois. His legacy lives on through the Morton Salt Company and the Morton Arboretum, both of which continue to thrive today. Morton's contributions to business and conservation have had a lasting impact, and he is remembered as a visionary leader and philanthropist.