Edward Francis Hutton was a prominent American financier who left an indelible mark on the world of finance and business. Born on September 7, 1875, in Manhattan, New York City, Hutton’s journey to success was one of hard work, determination, and strategic thinking.
Early Life and Education
Hutton’s early life was marked by tragedy and resilience. At the age of 10, his father, James Laws Hutton, passed away, leaving Edward and his two siblings in the care of their mother, Frances Elouise Hulse Hutton. Despite the challenges, Hutton remained focused on his education.
He attended the New York Latin School before transferring to P.S. 69. During his teenage years, Hutton took on various jobs to support himself, including working in a gear factory at the age of 15 and later in the mailroom of a securities firm. To further his education, he enrolled in classes at Trinity Chapel High School and Packer’s Business College.
The Birth of a Financial Empire
In 1904, Edward Francis Hutton, along with his brother Franklyn Laws Hutton, founded the renowned American stock brokerage firm E. F. Hutton & Co. This venture would eventually become one of the largest financial firms in the United States. Under their leadership, E. F. Hutton & Co. gained a reputation for excellence and integrity, making it a trusted name in the financial industry.
The firm’s success was built on Hutton’s astute investment strategies and his commitment to providing top-notch financial services to clients. With Hutton’s business acumen and dedication to delivering value, E. F. Hutton & Co. quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the financial world.
Personal Life and Legacy
Throughout his life, Edward Francis Hutton had three marriages. His first wife, Blanch Horton, tragically passed away during the 1918 Spanish Flu influenza pandemic. They had one son together, Halcourt Horton Hutton, who met a tragic end in a horse-riding accident in 1920.
In 1920, Hutton married his second wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post, an heiress and a prominent figure in the business world. Together, they built Mar-a-Lago, a luxurious estate in Palm Beach, Florida. However, their marriage eventually ended in divorce in 1935, due to Hutton’s infidelity.
Hutton’s third marriage was to Dorothy Dear Metzger in 1936. Despite the significant age difference, their union lasted until Hutton’s death. Dorothy had one daughter from her previous marriage, Nancy Joan Metzger, who became Edward’s stepdaughter.
Edward Francis Hutton’s legacy extends beyond his business accomplishments. He was a passionate yachtsman and owned several private yachts throughout his lifetime. His love for yachting and sport fishing was evident in his collection of meticulously crafted vessels, including the Hussar and the iconic Sea Cloud.
Philanthropy and Contributions
Hutton was not only a successful businessman but also a dedicated philanthropist. In 1949, he co-founded the Freedoms Foundation, an organization aimed at promoting patriotism and civic responsibility. Through this foundation, Hutton sought to inspire future generations to uphold the values of freedom and democracy.
In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Hutton also made his mark as a writer. He wrote a newspaper column, sharing his insights on finance and business. His writings provided valuable guidance to aspiring investors and entrepreneurs, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the financial world.
