John W. Garrett
American banker & railroad executive / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:
Can you list the top facts and stats about John Work Garrett?
Summarize this article for a 10 year old
SHOW ALL QUESTIONS
For his grandson, the U.S. diplomat, see John W. Garrett (diplomat).
For other people named John W. Garrett, see John W. Garrett (disambiguation).
John Work Garrett (July 31, 1820 – September 26, 1884) was an American merchant turned banker who became president of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) in 1858 and led the railroad for nearly three decades. The B&O became one of the most important American railroads by the time Garrett died, and Garret would also become a noted philanthropist. He provided crucial support for the Union cause during the Civil War, expanded the railroad to reach Chicago, Illinois, and competed with the Pennsylvania Railroad for access to New York City.
Quick Facts Born, Died ...
John W. Garrett | |
---|---|
Born | (1820-07-31)July 31, 1820 |
Died | September 26, 1884(1884-09-26) (aged 64) |
Occupations |
|
Years active | 1850s–1880s |
Known for | President, Baltimore and Ohio Railroad |
Predecessor | Chauncy Brooks |
Successor | Robert Garrett, II |
Spouse |
Rachel Ann Harrisson
(died 1883) |
Children | 4, including Mary Elizabeth |
Signature | |
Close