George Peabody Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

Considered the "Father of Modern Philanthropy", George Peabody began his career as a partner in the wholesale dry goods firm of Peabody, Riggs and Company in Baltimore in 1814. In 1837, he took up residence in London, where he entered the financial arena a year later by selling Maryland state bonds to Baring Brothers. Increasing his fortune by his own purchase of the securities, Peabody was able to finance the installation of American exhibits at "The Great Exhibition of the World of Industry of All Nations". In 1854, he took Junius Spencer Morgan (J.P.'s father) into partnership. In 1862, he established the Peabody Donation Fund providing subsidized housing to London's working class. His benefactions, most given during his lifetime, totaled over $8 million and included three Peabody Institutes, two Peabody Museums (at Harvard and Salem, Mass.) and the Peabody Education Fund.