William Colgate

1783–1857 (age 74)

Businessman/Soap Manufacturer

Photograph of William Colgate

Biography

William Colgate, born in 1783, built a thriving soap manufacturing enterprise that combined ingenuity with a deep commitment to philanthropy, supporting education and the social welfare of his fellow citizens.

He died in 1857 and found rest at Green-Wood Cemetery, remembered as a generous entrepreneur who balanced commercial skill with heartfelt concern for others.