Mac Martin was a prominent figure in the advertising and business community of Minneapolis for more than fifty years. The Mac Martin Advertising Agency, which he established in 1904, was at one time one of the largest advertising agencies in the country. In 1931 it merged with the Erwin Wasey Agency and the firm became known as the Erwin, Wasey and Company, with Mac Martin as its president.
A native of Wabasha, Minnesota, Martin graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1903. Always interested in raising business and advertising standards, he was instrumental in founding the Publicity Club in 1907. This group later developed into the Minneapolis Chamber of Commerce and the Minneapolis Advertising Club. He also was instrumental in the founding of the first Better Business Bureau, established in Minneapolis in 1914. From 1911 to 1921, before the establishment of the business school, Martin lectured on advertising at the University of Minnesota and worked for the establishment of the American Association of Advertising Agencies.
Martin retired from advertising in 1956, but worked as a consultant to his old firm for a time before passing away on April 10, 1958 at the age of 77. He was survived by his wife, Alice; two stepsons; one stepdaughter; and one niece. The name of his advertising agency was changed to White, Herzog & Nee, Inc. in 1958, and finally to Peterson, Herzog & Nee in 1972.
From the guide to the Advertising scrapbooks and films., 1903-1982 (bulk 1920-1960)., (Minnesota Historical Society)
