Conrad Nicholson Hilton (1887–1979) was an American hotelier and business magnate well-known for founding the iconic Hilton Hotels chain. He started his first hotel at 31 and acquired or built dozens more in his lifetime. Through shrewd financing and bargaining, Hilton created one of the largest hotel chains in the world.
Born in San Antonio, New Mexico Territory, he displayed his entrepreneurial spirit from a young age helping his father turn their large adobe house into an inn for traveling salesmen. As he grew older, Hilton took on various roles, including working as a cashier at the New Mexico State Bank in 1913 and becoming a president and partner in A.H. Hilton and Son, General Store by 1915.
In 1918, following the passing of his father, Hilton took over the family inn and embarked on a remarkable trajectory. His first significant acquisition came in 1919 when he purchased the Mobley Hotel in Cisco, Texas. This began a chain of hotels flourishing in major cities across the United States. Despite the challenges of the Great Depression, Hilton’s astute financial management and negotiating skills allowed his hotel chain to persevere. By 1939, he expanded his empire by building, leasing, or purchasing hotels in California, New York, Illinois, and other locations.
The post-World War II era brought further growth and opportunities for Hilton. In 1946, he established the Hilton Hotels Corporation, solidifying his presence in the industry. Hilton International was formed two years later, extending its reach beyond the United States. Hilton’s tireless efforts and visionary leadership propelled his company to new heights until his son, Barron Hilton, assumed the presidency in 1966.
Hilton was also known for his philanthropic endeavors—his Conrad N. Hilton Foundation continues to support humanitarian efforts worldwide. His published works included the autobiography Be My Guest (1957) and Inspirations of an Innkeeper (1963.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Conrad Hilton
Enthusiasm is a vital element toward the individual success of every man or woman.
—Conrad Hilton
Topics: Enthusiasm
Success seems to be connected with action. Successful men keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.
—Conrad Hilton
The man who wins is the average man,
Not built on any particular plan;
Not blessed with any particular luck
—Conrad Hilton
Topics: Work
Achievement seems to be connected with action. Successful men and women keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don’t quit.
—Conrad Hilton
Topics: Achievement, Strength, Perseverance, Success
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