H. J. Heinz Company

In 1869 at the age of twenty-five, Henry J. Heinz helped launch a pickle and horseradish preserving company in Sharpsburg, Pennsylvania. The business expanded quickly, but when the depression hit in 1875, the company went into bankruptcy. Two months later the company emerged from the ashes under the nominal control of Henry’s brother and cousin. Under Henry’s direction, the business thrived. By 1888 Heinz had paid off the debts incurred during the bankruptcy, bought out his brother and cousin, and named the firm H. J. Heinz Company. The company rapidly expanded operations and distribution facilities throughout the United States.