William Sperry Beinecke facts for kids
William Sperry Beinecke (born May 22, 1914 – died April 8, 2018) was an American who was known for his business work and for giving a lot of money to good causes. He lived to be 103 years old!
Contents
What Did William Beinecke Do?
Early Life and Education
William Beinecke went to school at Westminster School. After that, he studied at Yale University, finishing in 1936. He then went to Columbia Law School and graduated in 1940.
Serving His Country
During World War II, William Beinecke served in the U.S. Navy. He was a brave officer and retired with the rank of Lieutenant Commander.
His Business Career
In 1952, William joined a company called Sperry & Hutchinson. This company was started by his great-uncle, Thomas Sperry. Sperry & Hutchinson was very famous for its S&H Green Stamps. These stamps were like rewards that people collected when they bought things. You could then trade the stamps for gifts! William Beinecke became the chairman and CEO (which means he was in charge of the whole company) before he retired in 1980.
Giving Back: Philanthropy
William Beinecke was a very generous person. He gave a lot of money to help build and support many important places.
- He was a main supporter of the Yale Golf Course at Yale University.
- He also helped create the William Miller Sperry Observatory at Union County College in Cranford, New Jersey. An observatory is a place where people can look at stars and planets.
- He gave money to the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library at Yale University. This library holds very old and special books and papers.
- He even helped start the Central Park Conservancy, which is a group that takes care of the famous Central Park in New York City.
In 2000, he wrote a book about his life and experiences.
William Beinecke's Family Life
William Beinecke was the son of Frederick W. Beinecke and Carrie Regina Sperry Beinecke. His mother was the daughter of William Miller Sperry, who helped start the company William later led. William lived in Cranford, New Jersey, until he was 11 years old.
He had four children. One of his children, Frances Beinecke, is known for her work helping the environment. William Beinecke lived a very long life, celebrating his 100th birthday in May 2014.
When Did William Beinecke Pass Away?
William Beinecke died on April 8, 2018, when he was 103 years old.
