George E. Johnson Sr., founder of a pioneering Black hair care empire, dies at 99
Summary
George E. Johnson Sr., who created a successful Black hair care company and was the first Black owner of a company listed on the American Stock Exchange, died at age 99. He founded Johnson Products in 1954, which served mainly Black customers and became well-known for products like Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen.Key Facts
- George E. Johnson Sr. died at his home in Chicago at age 99.
- He and his wife started Johnson Products in 1954 with a $250 loan.
- Johnson Products catered mainly to Black consumers with hair care brands such as Afro Sheen and Ultra Sheen.
- It was the first Black-owned company listed on the American Stock Exchange.
- Johnson Products sponsored the 1970s TV show "Soul Train."
- Johnson was born in Mississippi in 1927 and moved to Chicago during the First Great Migration.
- He also founded Independence Bank and was the first Black board member at Illinois’ utility company Commonwealth Edison.
- Johnson created an educational fund granting over 1,000 college scholarships.
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