Victor Hammer (businessman) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Victor Hammer
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| Born | November 1, 1901 New York City, U.S.
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| Died | July 21, 1985 (aged 83) New York City, U.S.
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| Nationality | American |
| Education | Princeton University (B.A.) |
| Spouse(s) |
Barbara
(div. 1928)Ireene Wicker
(m. 1941) |
| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Armand Hammer (brother) |
Victor J. Hammer (born November 1, 1901 – died July 21, 1985) was a successful businessman and a kind-hearted person who gave a lot to charity. He was the founder and owner of the famous Hammer Galleries in New York City.
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Early Life and Education
Victor Hammer was born in New York City. His parents, Julius and Rose Hammer, were Jewish immigrants from Ukraine. His father came to the United States in 1875 from Odessa, which was then part of the Russian Empire. Julius Hammer settled in The Bronx and worked as a doctor, also owning five drugstores.
Victor went to Princeton University. He studied art history and graduated in 1921. His older brother was the well-known businessman Armand Hammer.
Career in Art and Business
Victor Hammer worked closely with his brother Armand on many business projects. One of their most famous ventures was Hammer Galleries in New York City. They started this art gallery in 1928.
Victor was in charge of finding and buying art for the gallery. He helped acquire many valuable items, including pieces from the Romanov Treasures and famous Fabergé eggs. In 1937, Time magazine described Victor and Armand as important figures in the American art world. They were known for their connections with Soviet authorities, especially when the Soviets needed to sell treasures from the Hermitage Museum to earn money.
Giving Back to the Community
Victor Hammer was also a generous person who supported many good causes. Along with his brothers Harry and Armand, he bought the historic Roosevelt estate. This estate is located on Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada.
The brothers then donated the estate to the United States and Canada. This gift created the first joint park between the two countries, now known as Roosevelt Campobello International Park. It's a special place that celebrates the friendship between the two nations.
Family Life
Victor Hammer was married twice. His first wife was Barbara, who was a performer. They had a son named Armand in 1927. They later divorced in 1928.
His second wife was Ireene Wicker. Together, they had a daughter named Nancy Hammer Eilan.
