The F. R. Bigelow Foundation commemorated its 60th anniversary on December 17, 2006.
The Foundation was formed in 1946 as a way for the philanthropy of Frederic Russell Bigelow and his family to continue. Bigelow was the fourth president of St. Paul Fire and Marine Company, an insurance company now known as Travelers Inc. Bigelow was very compassionate, strong-minded and personal in his approach to business and life, and he had a great understanding and love for his community. Bigelow shared his time and money in both good times and bad. His other community commitments included:
One of the early organizers of the St. Paul Community Chest, now the United Way
Board member of the National Citizens’ Committee for Welfare and Relief Mobilization during the Great Depression
“As a board we take pride in knowing that the Foundation continues to discover ways to support the residents of our community. From children to adults, the Foundation is focused on making a difference.”
- Carolyn Brusseau Current chair of the F. R. Bigelow Foundation Board of Trustees
“As we celebrate 60 years, we are reaffirming our commitment to the greater Saint Paul community. We are especially grateful to all of those who support and further the work of the Foundation.”
- Jon Theobald Former chair of the F. R. Bigelow Foundation Board of Trustees
While the world has changed in many ways since the F. R. Bigelow Foundation began 60 years ago, the original mission of the Foundation is still relevant today in helping to meet the needs of the community.
