August Anheuser Busch Sr.

August Anheuser Busch Sr.
Born	Template:Birth date St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.
Died	February 10, 1934(1934-02-10) (aged 68) Grant's Farm, Missouri, U.S.
Occupation	Brewing executive
Years active	1913–1934
Known for	President and CEO of Anheuser-Busch

August Anheuser Busch Sr. (December 29, 1865 – February 10, 1934) was a prominent American brewing executive who held the positions of President and CEO at Anheuser-Busch in St. Louis, Missouri, from 1913 until his death in 1934. The company later achieved the status of the world's largest brewery in 1957 under the direction of his son, Gussie Busch Jr..

Early life

August was born in St. Louis, Missouri to Adolphus Busch, a German immigrant and founder of the brewery, and Lilly Eberhard Anheuser, whose father, Eberhard Anheuser, was also involved in brewing. He grew up with eight brothers and five sisters.

Career

Following the passing of his father in 1913, Busch took over leadership of Anheuser-Busch. He steered the company through difficult times such as World War I, Prohibition, and the Great Depression by diversifying its business interests. During Prohibition, to offset losses from beer production restrictions, the company branched out into manufacturing corn products, baker’s yeast, ice cream, soft drinks, and commercial refrigeration equipment. Most of these enterprises were discontinued once Prohibition ended in 1933. Additionally, amidst rising anti-German attitudes during World War I, Busch preserved company stability and commissioned the construction of Bevo Mill close to both his home and the brewery.

Personal life

On May 8, 1890, Busch married Alice Ziesemann. Together they had five children: Adolphus III, Marie, Clara, August Jr., and Alice. The family held a notable position within St. Louis society; notably, Alice Busch was crowned Queen of Love and Beauty at the 1922 Veiled Prophet Ball. Both sons became involved in Anheuser-Busch's leadership; Adolphus III served as president and CEO until his death in 1946, after which August Jr. took over and guided the company to become the largest brewery globally.

Death and legacy

In his final years, Busch battled health issues including heart disease, edema, and gout. After enduring several months of serious illness, he died by suicide at age 68 on February 10, 1934, at the Busch Mansion located on Grant’s Farm. He left a brief note for his family prior to his death. The coroner’s jury in St. Louis County officially classified it as suicide due to prolonged illness.

His passing was mourned by thousands including senators and fellow brewers. His attorney Daniel N. Kirby lauded him as a visionary leader who safeguarded the brewing industry much like his father had established it initially. Unlike his parents who were interred at Bellefontaine Cemetery, August was buried at Sunset Burial Park near Grant’s Farm where many gathered to honor him.

In 1947, Alice Busch contributed $70,000 toward purchasing land for what became the August A. Busch Memorial Conservation Area as a dedication to her late husband.

See also

• Adolph Coors, Colorado-based brewer