John W. Daniels

John W. Daniels (February 23, 1857 – June 8, 1931) was an American businessman. He was the co-founder and chairman of Archer Daniels Midland.

Early life

John W. Daniels was born on February 23, 1857, in Piqua, Ohio.[1][2] He went to public schools in Piqua. After graduation he transferred from one job to another until he was 21 years old.[3]

Career

Daniels first worked for a linseed company in Piqua.[1] He joined American Linseed Co. in Buffalo, New York and served as one of its directors.[1][4] In 1901, he left and started working for Cleveland's Sherwin-Williams, which he helped become a large player in the linseed oil market.[4]

Daniels founded Daniels Linseed Co. in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1902.[1] He chose the city as his business location because it was near the source of flax production.[3] With George A. Archer, Daniels co-founded Archer-Daniels in 1904.[5] After a full year of operation, the company reported a $72,000 profit.[6] When they purchased Midland Linseed Products Co. in 1912, it became known as Archer Daniels Midland. Daniels was its chairman.[2] Following the company's success in Minnesota, the partners competed in the eastern market through by expanding into New York, where they operated a linseed mill and public grain elevator that became known as the Great Northern elevator.[7][8]

Personal life and death

Daniels had a wife, Amelia Leonard,[9] and a son, Thomas L. Daniels.[1] They resided at Kenwood Parkway in St. Paul, Minnesota as well as in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.[1] Daniels had an affinity for art and collected art works.[1]

Daniels died on June 8, 1931, in St. Paul, Minnesota, at the age of 74.[1][2] His funeral was held in Piqua, Ohio.[2]