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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:21:10

DuPont

American multinational chemical company
American multinational chemical company

DuPont, founded in 1802, played a major role in Delaware's development. Known for developing polymers like nylon and Kevlar, as well as chemicals like Freon. Merged with Dow Chemical in 2015, then split into three companies. DuPont, headquartered in Delaware, is a leading chemical company.

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1739
Birth of Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours

Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours was born in Paris in 1739. He was the son of a Parisian watchmaker and a descendant of a minor noble family.

1767
Victor-Marie du Pont born

Victor-Marie du Pont, the first son of the Du Pont family, was born. He had various diplomatic roles including being an attaché to the French legation in the United States and aide-de-camp to the Marquis de Lafayette.

1771
Éleuthère Irénée “E.I.” du Pont de Nemours Birth

Éleuthère Irénée “E.I.” du Pont de Nemours, the founder of the du Pont dynasty, was born in 1771, marking the beginning of a significant legacy in Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley.

1792
British Captain George Vancouver explores DuPont area

In 1792, British Captain George Vancouver and his explorers were the first outsiders to see the land that would later become DuPont. This exploration marked the initial contact of outsiders with the area.

1797
Origin of the Name 'Hagley'

The name 'Hagley' used for the land purchased by DuPont in 1813 most likely originated from an English estate that was well-known in the eighteenth century. The name was already in use before E.I. du Pont acquired the property.

1800-01-01
E.I. du Pont Arrives in America

E.I. du Pont, along with his father and his brother’s family, arrive by ship in Newport, RI on January 1, 1800. The anniversary of this day is still celebrated by his descendants today.

1801
Land Purchased

Du Pont purchased property from Jacob Broom on the Brandywine River near Wilmington, Delaware to build his gunpowder manufactory.

1802
DuPont Company Founded

In 1802, E.I. du Pont founded a gunpowder factory on the banks of the Brandywine River in Wilmington, Delaware. This marked the beginning of the DuPont Company, a significant success story in American industry.

1803
Birth of Samuel Francis du Pont

Samuel Francis du Pont, son of Victor-Marie du Pont, was born in 1803. He had a notable career as a U.S. naval officer, serving in the Mexican War, contributing to the Naval Academy curriculum, and commanding during the Civil War.

1804-05-16
First Sale of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company

E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company made its first recorded sale on May 16, 1804. This marked the beginning of the company's commercial activities.

1813
Land Purchase and Expansion of DuPont

In 1813, DuPont purchased 62 acres of land next to Eleutherian Mills to establish a new powder yard known as Hagley Yard. This expansion was a significant step in the company's growth.

1817-08-07
Death of P.S. du Pont de Nemours

Pierre Samuel du Pont de Nemours passed away at Eleutherian Mills on August 7, 1817, following his involvement in extinguishing a fire at the factory. He was the first du Pont family member to die due to a powder yard accident.

1818-03-19
The Great Explosion

The 'Great Explosion' occurred on March 19, 1818, claiming the lives of 34 individuals and causing significant devastation to the Company. It was one of the most tragic incidents in the Company's history.

1832
Nisqually House built by Hudson's Bay Company

In 1832, the Nisqually House, a storehouse for blankets, seeds, and potatoes, was constructed at the mouth of Sequalitchew Creek by Hudson's Bay Company Chief Trader Archibald McDonald with the help of the Sequalitchew Nisqually Tribe.

1834-10-31
Death of E.I. du Pont

E.I. du Pont, a prominent figure known for his contributions to the community through support for poverty relief, help for the blind, and free public education, passed away in Philadelphia due to heart failure. He was also recognized as a bank director, inventor, and gentleman scientist.

1843
Fort Nisqually site discovered by Archibald McDonald

In 1843, Hudson's Bay Company Chief Trader Archibald McDonald sighted the area that would become Fort Nisqually. With the help of the Sequalitchew Nisqually Tribe, a storehouse called Nisqually House was built at the mouth of Sequalitchew Creek.

1857
Production of 'soda powder' by DuPont

In 1857, DuPont produced a 'soda powder', which was the first strictly industrial explosive. This marked a significant development in the company's history.

1864
Alfred I. du Pont is born

Alfred I. du Pont, born to Éleuthère Irénée “E.I.” du Pont II and Charlotte Shepherd du Pont, made significant changes in the family business, leading to increased efficiency and safety. He later ventured into his own business pursuits, amassing over 200 patents and constructing the renowned Nemours Estate for his second wife Alicia.

1870
Pierre Samuel du Pont

Pierre Samuel du Pont, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, is active during this period.

1880
DuPont starts manufacturing nitroglycerin and dynamite

In 1880, DuPont began manufacturing nitroglycerin and dynamite, expanding its product range and influence in the explosives industry.

1899
Incorporation of DuPont

DuPont was first incorporated in 1899 after operating as a partnership for nearly a century. This legal change marked a new phase in the company's structure.

1902-03
Sale of DuPont to Alfred I. du Pont and cousins

In March 1902, the third generation of du Ponts decided to sell the business to a competitor, but Alfred I. du Pont and his cousins, T. Coleman and Pierre S. du Pont, bought the company for $12 million, leading to the company becoming the largest explosives maker in the country.

1903
Opening of the Experimental Station

DuPont established its first Experimental Station in 1903 near the original powder yards in Wilmington, Delaware, leading to advancements that enabled the company to expand into consumer goods.

1906
E.I DuPont deNemours Company Land Purchase

In 1906, E.I DuPont deNemours Company purchased five square miles of land in Wilmington, Delaware for the manufacturing of black powder and high explosives. Tar paper houses were constructed for the plant construction crew.

1907
Anti-Trust Legislation

In July 1907, the U.S. Justice Department launched anti-trust actions against DuPont, resulting in a 1911 court decision that compelled the company to divest numerous acquisitions, including the Hercules Powder Company and Atlas Powder Company.

1909
DuPont Powder Works Plant Operation

The DuPont Powder Works Plant began operating in 1909, leading to the construction of permanent homes for employees. The Company Town with its own amenities like school, newspaper, and post office started to grow.

1910
Construction of Wharf and Railroad by DuPont Company

In 1910, the DuPont Company built a wharf and narrow-gauge railroad for shipping dynamite and other products, enhancing their transportation capabilities.

1912
Government scrutiny under the Sherman Antitrust Act

In 1912, DuPont's purchase of several smaller chemical companies led to government scrutiny under the Sherman Antitrust Act, reflecting the company's growing influence.

1914
Pierre S. du Pont's investment in General Motors

In 1914, Pierre S. du Pont invested in General Motors, eventually becoming the company's chairman and leading it to become the top automobile company globally.

1915
Introduction of NYLON

In 1915, DuPont introduced NYLON, a synthetic fiber that became a blockbuster product for the company, revolutionizing the textile industry.

1918
DuPont Investment in General Motors

In 1918, DuPont invested in General Motors to expand its interests in consumer goods. Pierre S. du Pont, who was elected as General Motors' director in 1915, later became the president of GM in 1920.

1920
Pierre S. du Pont becomes president of General Motors

In 1920, Pierre S. du Pont takes over as the president of General Motors after DuPont's significant investment in the company. He leads GM until 1923 and continues to be part of the board until 1929.

1921
Closing of the Brandywine Works

In 1921, DuPont closed the Brandywine powder yards due to low demand for black powder and the Company's shift towards other products.

1927
Establishment of the du Pont Family

The du Pont Family was established in 1927. They have been deeply intertwined with Delaware's history since the 19th century, contributing to the industrial revolution, creating household name products, and emphasizing nature preservation.

1928
Invention of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

In the 1920s, DuPont, Frigidaire, and General Motors collaborated to find a replacement for toxic refrigerants, leading to the creation of CFCs by Thomas Midgley in 1928. CFCs were later found to be ozone-depleting chemicals.

1930
Discovery of Nylon by DuPont

In 1930, DuPont's polymer research group headed by Wallace H. Carothers created Nylon, a groundbreaking synthetic material that became one of the company's most important discoveries.

1934
Relocation of Fort Nisqually Granary and Factor's House

In 1934, the Fort Nisqually Granary and Factor's House, the oldest building on Puget Sound, were moved to the reconstructed Fort Nisqually site in Point Defiance Park by the Young Men’s Business Club of Tacoma. The original fort site in DuPont now only has Black Locust trees.

1935
Invention of neoprene and Nylon by DuPont

In 1935, DuPont's research led to the invention of neoprene, a synthetic rubber, and Nylon, two significant contributions to the materials industry.

1938
Creation of Nylon by DuPont

In 1938, DuPont's most important invention, Nylon, was created, further solidifying the company's reputation for innovation in materials.

1940
The Alfred I. duPont Institute opens in Wilmington

In 1940, the Alfred I. duPont Institute is established in Wilmington, becoming the first healthcare institution under the Nemours Foundation. It specializes in pediatric orthopedics and is now known as Nemours Children's Hospital.

1941
DuPont's involvement in the Manhattan Project

In 1941, DuPont participated in the top secret Manhattan Project, building the Hanford Engineering Works to produce plutonium for the atomic bomb, showcasing its contribution to wartime efforts.

1943
DuPont's involvement in the Manhattan Project

In 1943, DuPont played a major role in the Manhattan Project by designing, building, and operating the Hanford plutonium producing plant in Hanford, Washington.

1950
DuPont's agreement to build the Savannah River Plant

In 1950, DuPont agreed to build the Savannah River Plant in South Carolina as part of the effort to create a hydrogen bomb.

1951
DuPont incorporated as a city

In 1951, DuPont was officially incorporated as a city with around 600 residents. This marked a significant milestone in the town's history.

1957
Opening of Hagley Museum & Library

In 1957, plans were realized to open the DuPont Company's original mills site by the Brandywine River as a museum. The museum showcases restored mills, a worker's community, the du Pont family's ancestral home and gardens, and Hagley's library with a wide-ranging collection on American entrepreneurship history.

1964
Lammot du Pont Copeland leads DuPont Company

Lammot du Pont Copeland led the DuPont company in the 1960s, overseeing the commercialization of new products like Lycra and Tyvek. He was featured on the cover of TIME Magazine in 1964 and had his portrait painted by Salvador Dali.

1965
DuPont Launches Kevlar

In 1965, DuPont launched Kevlar, a synthetic fiber known for its high tensile strength, used in various applications including bulletproof vests, racing sails, and protective gloves. Kevlar has become a significant innovation in materials science and has had a profound impact on multiple industries.

1967
Introduction of CORIAN

In 1967, DuPont introduced CORIAN, a solid building material used in kitchen and bath countertops, marking its entry into the construction industry.

1974
Publication of 'DuPont: Behind the Nylon Curtain'

In 1974, Gerard Colby Zilg published 'DuPont: Behind the Nylon Curtain', a book that delves into the history and operations of the DuPont company.

1976
Weyerhaeuser Company purchased DuPont Company property

In 1976, Weyerhaeuser Company acquired all 3,200 acres of DuPont Company property, impacting the ownership and development of the area.

1977
Pierre Samuel 'Pete' du Pont IV becomes the governor of Delaware

In 1977, Pierre Samuel 'Pete' du Pont IV is elected as the 68th governor of Delaware, previously serving as a U.S. representative. He holds the governorship until 1985 and later runs for president in 1988.

1981
DuPont Acquires Conoco oil company

In 1981, DuPont makes a significant move by acquiring the Conoco oil company, marking the largest merger in U.S. history at that time.

1984
Publication of 'Du Pont Dynasty: Behind the Nylon Curtain'

In 1984, Gerard Colby Zilg released 'Du Pont Dynasty: Behind the Nylon Curtain', a comprehensive book shedding light on the DuPont family and their legacy.

1987
The Village in DuPont placed on National Register of Historic Places

In 1987, the company town area known as 'The Village' in DuPont was recognized and designated as a Historic District, preserving its historical significance.

1988-03-24
DuPont's decision to phase out CFC production

After NASA announced a study linking CFCs to ozone depletion in 1988, DuPont reversed its stance on CFCs, calling for worldwide controls on production and phasing out its own CFC production. This decision was praised by environmentalists.

1989
Approval for construction of Weyerhaeuser's Northwest Landing

In 1989, DuPont City Council approved the development plans for Weyerhaeuser's Northwest Landing, anticipating a significant population growth and expansion of the city.

1990
DuPont awarded National Medal of Technology for invention of high-performance man-made polymers

In 1990, DuPont was awarded the National Medal of Technology for its groundbreaking inventions including nylon, neoprene rubber, Teflon fluorocarbon resin, and various new fibers, films, and engineering plastics.

1993
George Levitt honored with National Medal of Technology for development of sulfonylurea herbicides

In 1993, DuPont scientist George Levitt was recognized with the National Medal of Technology for his significant contributions to the development of sulfonylurea herbicides.

1995
Seagram's Ownership of DuPont

By 1995, Seagram had become DuPont's largest single shareholder, holding a 24.3 percent ownership stake and having four seats on the board of directors. This ownership relationship between Seagram and DuPont was significant in the corporate landscape.

1996
Stephanie Kwolek recognized for discovery and development of Kevlar

In 1996, DuPont scientist Stephanie Kwolek was acknowledged for her pioneering work in the discovery and development of Kevlar, a revolutionary material used in various applications.

1999
Lawsuit filed against DuPont for chemical waste contamination

In 1999, attorney Robert Bilott filed a lawsuit against DuPont, accusing the company of chemical waste contamination that led to property and water pollution issues, resulting in health problems.

2001-10
Sale of DuPont's Pharmaceutical Business

In October 2001, DuPont sold its pharmaceutical business to Bristol Myers Squibb for $7.798 billion.

2002
DuPont presented with Honor Award by National Building Museum

On its 200th anniversary in 2002, DuPont was honored with the prestigious Honor Award by the National Building Museum for its impactful products in the construction and design industry.

2004
Sale of DuPont's Textiles Business

In 2004, DuPont sold its textiles business, including brands like Lycra and Dacron, to Koch Industries.

2005
DuPont ranked best-practice leader in cutting carbon gas emissions

In 2005, BusinessWeek magazine and the Climate Group recognized DuPont as a leader in reducing carbon gas emissions, showcasing the company's commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation.

2007-05
Opening of DuPont Nature Center at Mispillion Harbor Reserve

In May 2007, the $2.1 million DuPont Nature Center at Mispillion Harbor Reserve was opened to enhance the beauty and integrity of the Delaware Estuary, serving as a wildlife observatory and interpretive center.

2009
City Government moved to newly-constructed Civic Center

In 2009, DuPont's City Government relocated from the Historic Village to the newly-built Civic Center in Northwest Landing, signifying a shift in administrative infrastructure.

2010-10
Introduction of Imprelis Herbicide

In October 2010, DuPont started marketing a herbicide named Imprelis for controlling specific plants in turf areas. However, due to reports of tree damage and deaths, DuPont voluntarily withdrew Imprelis from the market in August 2011.

2011-01-09
DuPont's Acquisition of Danisco

On January 9, 2011, DuPont announced the agreement to buy Danish company Danisco for US$6.3 billion.

2012-05-01
DuPont acquires full ownership of Solae joint venture

On May 1, 2012, DuPont announced the acquisition of full ownership of the Solae joint venture, a soy-based ingredients company, from Bunge.

2013-02
DuPont sells Performance Coatings to Carlyle Group

In February 2013, DuPont sold its Performance Coatings business to the Carlyle Group, which was later rebranded as Axalta Coating Systems.

2013-10
DuPont announces spin-off of Performance Chemicals business

In October 2013, DuPont revealed plans to spin off its Performance Chemicals business into a new publicly traded company, which eventually became The Chemours Company.

2014-11-15
Methyl Mercaptan Gas Leak

On November 15, 2014, a tragic incident occurred at a DuPont plant in Houston where a poisonous gas leak of 24,000 pounds of methyl mercaptan led to the death of four workers. DuPont pleaded guilty for criminal negligence and was fined $12 million.

2015-07-01
DuPont completes spin-off of Chemours Company

On July 1, 2015, DuPont finalized the spin-off of its Performance Chemicals business into The Chemours Company, focusing on GMO seeds, solar panel materials, and alternatives to fossil fuels.

2015-12-11
DuPont announces merger with Dow Chemical Company

On December 11, 2015, DuPont announced a merger with Dow Chemical Company, forming the combined entity DowDuPont, with an estimated value of $130 billion.

2016-12
Jury Awards $2 Million for Testicular Cancer Caused by PFOA

In December 2016, a jury awarded $2 million in a case where testicular cancer was linked to PFOA exposure, with punitive damages of $10.5 million.

2017
DuPont Settles 3,550 Personal Injury Claims for $671 Million

In 2017, DuPont settled 3,550 personal injury claims related to the Parkersburg, West Virginia plant for $671 million.

2018-03-01
Leadership Changes at DowDuPont

Jeff Fettig was announced to become executive chairman of DowDuPont on July 1, 2018, and Jim Fitterling would become CEO of Dow Chemical on April 1, 2018.

2019
Corteva spun off from DowDuPont

In 2019, DowDuPont separated its agricultural unit, including Pioneer Hi-Bred, into an independent public company named Corteva.

2020-02
Return of Edward D. Breen as DuPont CEO

In February 2020, DuPont announced the return of Edward D. Breen as its CEO after the removal of former Chief Executive Mark Doyle and CFO Jeanmarie Desmond. Lori D. Koch assumed the CFO position.

2021-11
DuPont's Acquisition Plans for Rogers Corporation

In November 2021, DuPont announced its intention to acquire Rogers Corporation in a deal valued at $5.2 billion. However, due to delays in the regulatory review process, DuPont decided to walk away from the deal in November 2022.

2022-11-10
California's Lawsuit Against DuPont

On November 10, 2022, the state of California announced it was filing suit against both DuPont and 3M for their manufacturing of persistent organic pollutants. DuPont denied manufacturing the chemicals and claimed the state's claims were meritless.

2024
DuPont 2024 Sustainability Report

DuPont released its 2024 Sustainability Report highlighting the company's commitment to sustainability across all aspects of its business.

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DuPont
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