Ezra Cornell Quotes

A collection of quotes by Ezra Cornell.

Ezra Cornell (1807-1874) was an American businessman and philanthropist. Born on January 11, 1807, in Westchester County, New York, he was the son of a farmer. Cornell had limited formal education but developed an affinity for mechanical skills and invention from a young age.

In 1830, Ezra Cornell co-founded the telegraph company Western Union, which became highly successful. He played a pivotal role in establishing telegraph lines across New York State, revolutionizing long-distance communication in the United States.

After his telegraph ventures, Cornell went on to become a prominent figure in the railroad industry. He played a key role in founding and leading the New York Central Railroad, which consolidated several smaller railroads.

Later in his life, Ezra Cornell turned his attention to education and philanthropy. In 1865, he co-founded Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, with the intention of providing higher education to individuals from all walks of life. The university, now renowned for its research and academic excellence, was established as a land-grant institution and became a model for modern universities.

Ezra Cornell passed away on December 9, 1874, but his legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur, investor, and education advocate lives on.