Founder of Target

Target was created by the Dayton Company which was founded by George D. Dayton. Dayton left home at the age of 16 with the goal of accumulating $5,000 by the time he reached 18 so that he could marry and provide for his wife. In 1883 he organized the State Bank of Worthington, with his friends investing money and having their friends do the same. In 1884 he organized the Minnesota Loan and Investment Company at Worthington and became its president. In 1892, he purchased land and formed the Dayton Dry Goods Company, which is now known as Target, with the belief that Minneapolis offers the strongest growth opportunities. The store was shaped on Dayton's principles and soon became known for dependable merchandise, fair business practices and a generous spirit of giving. Dayton was an active part of the store's management as President until his death in 1938. Following his death, his son and grandson took over and Dayton Company began to grow into a nationwide retailer.