The Good Provider: H. J. Heinz and His 57 Varieties

by Robert C. Alberts

Biography of H. J. Heinz (1844-1919), one of the "Lords of Pittsburgh" industry.

297 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1973

Reviews

[Joe Kovalchick · Rating 4 out of 5]

My wife and I are life long Pittsburgher's and my wife a 15 year Heinz employee, so I was familiar with the Heinz brand but not the man. My wife acquired a copy when the company store was clearing out old stock a few years back and I finally got around to reading the book. I found it very enjoyable, it's more of a highlight of the man and company. I'm sure there are more detailed biographies available, but this was easy to read and not encumbered with to many events, dates and people. Mr. Heinz was revolutionary in his thoughts on how a company should treat it's employees and customer's. The H. J. Heinz Compony was at the forefront of providing safe wholesome products to the public. While most packaging companies of the times where fighting such efforts, Mr. Heinz fully endorsed safe practices and full disclosure of manufacturing processes. I do believe that the book was commissioned by the Heinz Company so some bias may be present but still a Pittsburgher to be proud of.

[Linda Spear · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a life Heinz lived! Not only was he a successful and innovative businessman, but he had such energy and curiosity. I was truly amazed at all his travels; of course, he had the funds but didn't seem to flaunt that wealth in the same way that many contemporary millionaires do. And he treated his employees well, considering the time period...although he did seem to like giving umbrellas as gifts to those same employees many times over I had to chuckle at that.

In a nutshell, his was an engaging story.

Another of our readalouds during the pandemic.