Who was Marjorie Merriweather Post, and why does her name still resonate so powerfully in the 21st century? Marjorie Merriweather Post was not just an heiress; she was a visionary businesswoman, a generous philanthropist, a discerning art collector, and a socialite who shaped an era. Her life story is a captivating narrative of ambition, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of beauty and influence. From her humble beginnings in Springfield, Illinois, to her extravagant lifestyle that captivated the world, Posts journey offers a compelling glimpse into the American Dream and the complexities of wealth and power.
Born in 1887, Marjorie Merriweather Post inherited the Postum Cereal Company from her father, C.W. Post, and transformed it into a global food empire, later known as General Foods. At a time when women in business were rare, Post not only took the helm of a major corporation but also navigated the intricacies of high society, marrying four times and cultivating a network of influential figures. Her life unfolded against the backdrop of significant historical events, from the Roaring Twenties to the Cold War, allowing her to leave her indelible mark on society.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marjorie Merriweather Post |
| Date of Birth | March 15, 1887 |
| Place of Birth | Springfield, Illinois |
| Date of Death | September 12, 1973 |
| Marriages | Edward Close, E.F. Hutton, Joseph E. Davies, Herbert A. May |
| Children | Adelina "Dina" Hutton, Eleanor Post Hutton |
| Education | Mount Vernon Seminary (now known as the Studio Theatre) |
| Business Affiliations | Postum Cereal Company (later General Foods Corporation) |
| Philanthropic Activities | Founder of Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens; supported various arts and cultural institutions. |
| Notable Achievements | Built and led the General Foods Corporation, a major force in the food industry; renowned art collector; prominent social figure. |
| Residences | Mar-a-Lago (Palm Beach), Hillwood Estate (Washington, D.C.), Camp Topridge (Adirondacks), 1107 Fifth Avenue (New York City) |
| Legacy | Established Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, preserving her art collection and luxurious lifestyle; left a lasting impact on American business, philanthropy, and society. |
| Reference | Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens |
The story of Marjorie Merriweather Post is intimately tied to the Postum Cereal Company, founded by her father, C.W. Post. When C.W. Post passed away in 1914, Marjorie, at just 27 years old, inherited a substantial fortune and the reins of the company. This marked the beginning of her remarkable career as a businesswoman. She shrewdly navigated the corporate landscape, expanding the business and transforming Postum into the General Foods Corporation, a powerhouse in the food industry. Her business acumen was evident in her ability to innovate, adapt, and recognize market trends, ensuring the companys continued success.
Beyond her business accomplishments, Post was known for her lavish lifestyle. Her homes were legendary, including Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, the opulent Hillwood Estate in Washington, D.C., and the rustic Camp Topridge in the Adirondacks. She also maintained a luxurious penthouse apartment at 1107 Fifth Avenue in New York City, the citys first penthouse. These residences were not just places to live; they were stages for her grand life, filled with exquisite art, elegant entertaining, and a staff that catered to her every need. The world knew the size of her fortune, the length of her yacht and the speed of her vickers viscount turboprop jet with its rolls, wrote a reporter.
Posts influence extended beyond her personal life into the realm of diplomacy and international relations. Her third husband, Joseph E. Davies, served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Soviet Union. During this time, Post became a prominent figure in Moscow society. Her art collection and social events helped bridge the gap between the United States and the Soviet Union, demonstrating her ability to navigate complex political landscapes with grace and sophistication. She was in Moscow at just the right time, when Stalin and his government were selling objects for hard currency.
Her passion for art collecting was another significant aspect of her legacy. Post amassed an impressive collection of Russian imperial art, including Faberg eggs, and French decorative arts. Her collection formed the core of the Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, which she established to preserve her collection and share her love of art with the public. Hillwood is a testament to her vision, offering visitors a glimpse into her world of luxury and refinement. As the Los Angeles Times wrote on December 9, 2001, a woman who brought champagne wishes and caviar dreams to life.
Philanthropy was also central to Marjorie Merriweather Post's life. She was a generous supporter of various causes and institutions, contributing to the arts, education, and healthcare. Her philanthropic endeavors demonstrated her commitment to using her wealth to make a positive impact on society. Her giving was not simply a matter of writing checks; she took a personal interest in the organizations she supported, often becoming actively involved in their missions.
Author Allison Pataki, while conducting research for her novel about Marjorie Merriweather Post, shared surprising discoveries about the American businesswoman, highlighting the depth and complexity of her character. Post's ability to reinvent herself, adapt to changing times, and maintain her influence across various spheres is a testament to her resilience and vision. Her story offers a study of ambition and the role of women in the first half of the twentieth century.
Her legacy continues today. Post Consumer Brands carries on her legacy of quality, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Her influence on the food industry is a testament to her vision, drive, and business acumen. The exquisite works of minerals and gems, the story of Sea Cloud, and the splendor and surprise at the Washington Winter Show, all reflect elements of her world. One hundred years later, Hillwood celebrates Posts influence on the period with a special exhibition focused on her impeccable attire, impressive art collection, and sumptuous design. She was the breakfast-food heiress whose fortune and style of liv ing outshone that of most queens, and whose philanthropy was legend.
Marjorie Merriweather Post was once asked by a reporter to comment on the grandiosity of her life, asking whether the houses, the jet, the yachts, and the large staff were more trouble than they were worth. Her response, Its no trouble to me, you see, I have done, encapsulates her unwavering belief in the value of her experiences and the life she created. Her life was a journey of extraordinary achievements and enduring influence. She was a woman who embraced her wealth and used it to create a world of beauty, influence, and lasting impact.
