
Henry Morrison Flagler impacted modern Florida like no other private citizen in the history of the state. At the time of his death in 1913, his wealth from business ventures such as being a founding partner of Standard Oil was almost unimaginable. While he lived as lavishly as any other Gilded Age captain of industry, Flagler was also a philanthropist. âI have come to the conclusion that the best way to help others is to help them help themselves,â said Flagler, who generously donated land for schools, churches, hospitals and libraries throughout Florida. His endowments and trusts are still valued at more than one billion dollars, which supports various educational, charitable and cultural programs. Flaglerâs lasting impact is the subject of a new exhibit (opening October 15 and running through January 5) at Whitehall, his extraordinary Palm Beach home, which was Floridaâs very first museum. The exhibit, âMan of the Century: The Incomparable Legacy of Henry Morrison Flagler,â presents his accomplishments in business, development and philanthropy through photographs, maps, documents and artifacts. Entrance to the exhibit is included with admission to the Flagler Museum. For details, visit www.flaglermuseum.us or call 561-655-2833. One Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480.