Fels, Samuel S. (Samuel Simeon), 1860-1950

Samuel Simeon Fels, youngest son of Lazarus and Susanna Fels, was born in Yanceyville, North Carolina, on February 16, 1860. His family moved north to settle in Philadelphia, where in 1876 Samuel joined the soap manufacturing business established that year by his older brother. The firm, Fels & Co., was incorporated in 1914, and Samuel became its first president, holding the office until his death in 1950. (The company was sold to Purex Corporation in 1964.) While remaining active in the affairs of Fels & Co., he also became one of Philadelphia's most prominent philanthropists. He took an active interest in, and gave generous support to civic, scientific, cultural, and educational causes. In 1936 Fels established the Samuel S. Fels Fund to continue financial support in these areas.

From the description of Papers, 1889-1973. (Historical Society of Pennsylvania). WorldCat record id: 122523757