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John CurtisAmerican businessman
Date of Birth: 10.10.1827
Country:  USA |
Content:
- John Curtis: The Self-Made Man
- Humble Beginnings
- The Invention of Chewing Gum
- Production and Sales Challenges
- Successful Peddling and Expansion
- National Expansion and Commercial Success
- Growing Chewing Gum Business
- Technological Innovations and Trade Secrets
- Diversification of Business Interests
- Mining and Agriculture
- Passion for Egyptology
John Curtis: The Self-Made Man
Early Life and EducationJohn Curtis was born in Bradford, Maine, into a modest family. Despite attending school, he never completed his formal education, opting to pursue practical work from a young age.
Humble Beginnings
Curtis initially earned a meager income through various jobs, including farm labor, road construction, and logging. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to explore new ventures.
The Invention of Chewing Gum
Aspirations for Resin Chewing GumCurtis believed in the potential of resin-based chewing gum. In 1848, he and his family relocated to Bangor, Maine, where he saw greater opportunities for his product.
Production and Sales Challenges
The early production and sales of Curtis's chewing gum faced hurdles. Despite producing it in their home, sales were initially slow. As a result, Curtis turned to peddling as a means of distribution.
Successful Peddling and Expansion
Traveling Salesman and Diverse ProductsCurtis became a successful peddler, not only selling his own chewing gum but also other popular merchandise. He adopted the motto, "Give the people all you can for their money and make an honest profit for yourself."
National Expansion and Commercial Success
Curtis's aggressive sales tactics and early arrivals in cities boosted his profits. He expanded his sales territory westward, reaching markets in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Minnesota, and Missouri.
Growing Chewing Gum Business
Increased Production and Factory RelocationWhile Curtis traveled, his father oversaw the production of chewing gum. They expanded the factory from a small space to a larger facility in Portland, Maine. The growing demand required increased supply, with Curtis purchasing tons of resin in bulk.
Technological Innovations and Trade Secrets
Curtis played a pivotal role in developing machinery for the production process. He kept his inventions secret, fostering a culture of innovation within his company. As a result, Curtis & Son produced a variety of chewing gum brands.
Diversification of Business Interests
Investment in Dredging and ShippingBeyond chewing gum, Curtis invested in dredging operations, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000 in scale. He also established a shipyard and owned several vessels, including a controlling stake in the Portland-South Portland Ferry and a fleet of steamboats.
Mining and Agriculture
Curtis engaged in mining for silver and coal in Maine. In his later years, he ventured into farming, establishing a large cattle ranch in Gothenburg, Nebraska.
Passion for Egyptology
Towards the end of his life, Curtis developed a fascination with Egyptology and the history of the pyramids.
