Who was John Taylor Johnston, and what were his primary professional and philanthropic roles?

John Taylor Johnston was an American businessman and a significant patron of the arts. He held prominent positions as the president of the Central Railroad of New Jersey and was also one of the co-founders of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When and where was John Taylor Johnston born?

John Taylor Johnston was born on April 8, 1820, in New York City.

What is depicted in the 1875 portrait of John Taylor Johnston mentioned in the source?

The source material includes an 1875 portrait of John Taylor Johnston, which was painted by Daniel Huntington.

What was John Taylor Johnston's tenure as President of the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

John Taylor Johnston served as the President of the Metropolitan Museum of Art from 1870 to 1889.

Who preceded and succeeded John Taylor Johnston as President of the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

John Taylor Johnston was the inaugural holder of the position, meaning he was the first president. He was succeeded by Henry Gurdon Marquand.

What were John Taylor Johnston's parents' names and their ethnic background?

John Taylor Johnston's parents were John Johnston and Margaret (née Taylor) Howard Johnston. Both of his parents were of Scottish ancestry.

Where did John Taylor Johnston receive his education?

John Taylor Johnston was educated at Edinburgh High School in Edinburgh, Scotland. He later graduated from the University of the City of New York in 1839 and studied at Yale Law School.

What was John Taylor Johnston's occupation?

John Taylor Johnston's occupations included being a businessman, a lawyer, and a philanthropist.

Who was John Taylor Johnston's mother, Margaret Taylor Howard Johnston, related to through her first marriage?

Margaret Taylor Howard Johnston was a widow of Rhesa Howard Jr., who was the nephew of William Few, a Signer of the U.S. Constitution from Georgia. William Few's brother-in-law was U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Albert Gallatin.

What notable institution did John Taylor Johnston's father co-found in New York City?

John Taylor Johnston's father, John Johnston, was a prominent businessman with Boorman, Johnston, & Co. and was a co-founder of Washington Square North. He also co-founded the University of the City of New York, where John Taylor Johnston later graduated.

What significant family connections did John Taylor Johnston's mother's siblings have?

John Taylor Johnston's mother had four siblings who married two grandchildren, a great-granddaughter, and a nephew of founding father Roger Sherman, who was a Signer of the U.S. Constitution and the U.S. Declaration of Independence from Connecticut.

Which of John Taylor Johnston's siblings made a notable contribution to the arts and education?

His younger brother, James Boorman Johnston, commissioned the Tenth Street Studio Building. His sister, Margaret Taylor Johnston, married John Bard, and together they were founders of Bard College.

Where did John Taylor Johnston grow up?

John Taylor Johnston grew up in Greenwich Village, New York City, which was also his birthplace.

Who were some of John Taylor Johnston's classmates at Yale Law School?

At Yale Law School, John Taylor Johnston's classmates included Charles Astor Bristed, Daniel D. Lord, and Henry G. DeForest.

When did John Taylor Johnston begin practicing law, and for how long?

John Taylor Johnston was admitted to the bar in 1843 and practiced law until 1848.

What railroad company did John Taylor Johnston become president of, and for how long did he hold that position?

In 1848, John Taylor Johnston was named president of the Somerville and Easton Railroad, which later became known as the Central Railroad of New Jersey. He retained this position until 1877.

What were some of John Taylor Johnston's key achievements and innovations during his presidency of the Central Railroad of New Jersey?

During his presidency, John Taylor Johnston was the driving force behind the company's acquisition of the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad. He also worked to develop the suburbs of central New Jersey along his railroad lines. His engineering expenditures for low grades, good alignment, and avoiding grade crossings were considered advanced for his time and were even ridiculed by competitors.

What was John Taylor Johnston's role in the founding of the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

John Taylor Johnston was the founding president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1870.

How did John Taylor Johnston contribute to the initial collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art?

Together with William Tilden Blodgett, John Taylor Johnston financed the initial '1871 purchase' of 174 paintings for the museum.

Why did John Taylor Johnston retire from the presidency of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and what honor was bestowed upon him?

John Taylor Johnston was forced to retire in 1889 due to ill health. Upon his retirement, the museum's Trustees voted him Honorary President for Life.

Beyond his leadership role, how did John Taylor Johnston support the arts?

John Taylor Johnston was a patron to living American artists and was an avid collector, with his personal collection including many French academic paintings.

Which notable artists' works were part of John Taylor Johnston's personal art collection?

His personal art collection, housed in his Fifth Avenue mansion, included works by Frederic Edwin Church, Thomas Cole, Asher Brown Durand, John Frederick Kensett, and Winslow Homer.

What other civic and cultural organizations did John Taylor Johnston serve?

In addition to his art patronage, Johnston served as President of the Governing Board of the University of the City of New York. He was also a member of the boards of the Presbyterian Hospital, the Woman's Hospital of New York, and the Saint Andrew's Society. Furthermore, he was a member of the Century Association and a trustee of the American Museum of Natural History and the National Academy of Design.

When and to whom was John Taylor Johnston married?

In 1851, John Taylor Johnston married Frances Colles, who was the daughter of Harriet (née Wetmore) Colles and James Colles, a prominent merchant from New York and New Orleans.

What was the architectural significance of John Taylor Johnston's residence in New York City?

In 1856, John Taylor Johnston constructed the first marble mansion in New York as his residence, located at 8 Fifth Avenue, just north of Washington Square.

What types of events and experiences did John Taylor Johnston record in his diaries?

John Taylor Johnston was an active diarist, documenting details of his travels through Europe and the United States. He also recorded significant personal and world events, such as his wedding excursion, family trips, a visit to Richmond, Virginia, in 1865 after the Confederate Army's surrender, and a journey west on the newly built Union Pacific Railroad.

What affliction did John Taylor Johnston suffer from in his later years?

In his later years, John Taylor Johnston was afflicted with creeping paralysis, which the source suggests was possibly multiple sclerosis, leading him to withdraw from public life.

When and where did John Taylor Johnston die, and where was he interred?

John Taylor Johnston died at his Fifth Avenue estate in New York City on March 24, 1893. His funeral was held at the Scotch Presbyterian Church in New York, and he was interred at Greenwood Cemetery.

Who is a notable descendant of John Taylor Johnston mentioned in the article?

Through his daughter Frances, John Taylor Johnston is the great-great-grandfather of American slam poet Taylor Mali.

What is depicted in the 1891 Harper's Weekly engraving of John Taylor Johnston?

An 1891 engraving of John Taylor Johnston from Harper's Weekly is featured in the source.

What is depicted in the 1880 portrait of John Taylor Johnston by Léon Bonnat?

The source material presents an 1880 portrait of John Taylor Johnston by Léon Bonnat.

Which of John Taylor Johnston's children married Robert W. de Forest?

His daughter Emily Johnston (1851–1942) married Robert W. de Forest, who was a lawyer, financier, and philanthropist.

Which of John Taylor Johnston's children died unmarried?

His son Colles Johnston (1853–1886) died unmarried.

Which of John Taylor Johnston's children married Celestine Noel?

His son John Herbert Johnston (1855–1931) married Celestine Noel (1860–1940).

Which of John Taylor Johnston's children married Henry Eugene Coe?

His daughter Eva Johnston married Henry Eugene Coe.

Which of John Taylor Johnston's children married Pierre Mali, and what was Mali's profession?

His daughter Frances Johnston (1857–1928) married Pierre Mali (1856–1923), who was the former Belgian Consul-General in New York.

What is the legacy of John Taylor Johnston in Jersey City, New Jersey?

Johnston Avenue in lower Jersey City, New Jersey, is named after him. This street, which has a 0.81-mile section designated as County Route 614, begins at Bergen Hill and ends at the Liberty State Park Station of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail. A cobblestoned portion continues under the New Jersey Turnpike Newark Bay Extension into Liberty State Park, leading to the Communipaw Terminal on the Upper New York Bay. This section was rededicated as Audrey Zapp Drive in the 1970s to honor a local environmentalist.

What other locations in New Jersey bear John Taylor Johnston's name?

The Port Johnston Coal Docks on Constable Hook in Bayonne, New Jersey, are named after him. Additionally, Johnston Drive in Watchung, a borough north of his Plainfield home, was named after Johnston.

What was the significance of the former Johnston Avenue Yard?

The former Johnston Avenue Yard served as the terminus for the Lehigh Valley Terminal Railway.

John Taylor Johnston Wiki: The Visionary Patron: John Taylor Johnston's Enduring Legacy in Art and Industry

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Early Life & Formative Years

A Distinguished Lineage

Born on April 8, 1820, in New York City, John Taylor Johnston emerged from a family deeply rooted in both commerce and civic engagement. He was the eldest son of John Johnston, a prominent merchant and co-founder of Washington Square North, and Margaret (née Taylor) Howard Johnston. Both parents hailed from Scottish ancestry, imbuing young John Taylor with a heritage of industriousness and intellectual curiosity.

His younger brother, James Boorman Johnston, notably commissioned the Tenth Street Studio Building, a significant hub for American artists.
His sister, Margaret Taylor Johnston, along with her husband John Bard (grandson of Dr. Samuel Bard), were instrumental in founding Bard College.
Through his mother, Johnston was connected to the family of William Few, a Signer of the U.S. Constitution from Georgia, and Albert Gallatin, a U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
His mother's siblings further extended the family's reach, marrying into the lineage of Roger Sherman, a Signer of both the U.S. Constitution and the U.S. Declaration of Independence from Connecticut.

Education and Intellectual Development

Johnston's early education took him across the Atlantic to Edinburgh, Scotland, where he attended the Royal High School. This international exposure likely broadened his perspective and cultivated a sophisticated worldview. Upon returning to New York, he enrolled in the University of the City of New York, an institution co-founded by his own father, graduating in 1839.

His academic pursuits continued at Yale Law School, where he studied alongside notable figures such as Charles Astor Bristed, Daniel D. Lord, and Henry G. DeForest. This rigorous legal training provided him with a foundational understanding of governance and business, skills that would prove invaluable in his subsequent career.

A Career of Influence

Railroad Magnate

After being admitted to the bar in 1843, Johnston practiced law for five years before transitioning into the burgeoning railroad industry. In 1848, he assumed the presidency of the Somerville and Easton Railroad, a company that would later become the Central Railroad of New Jersey. He held this pivotal role until 1877, demonstrating remarkable longevity and leadership in a rapidly evolving sector.

Johnston was a visionary in railroad development, spearheading the acquisition of the Lehigh and Susquehanna Railroad. His strategic foresight extended beyond mere expansion; he actively sought to develop the central New Jersey suburbs through which his rail lines passed. His commitment to superior engineering, characterized by significant expenditures on low grades, good alignment, and the avoidance of grade crossings, was considered revolutionary for his era, often drawing skepticism from competitors who underestimated his long-term vision.

Founding the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Perhaps Johnston's most enduring legacy lies in his instrumental role as the founding president of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1870. His dedication to establishing a world-class cultural institution in New York City was unwavering. He, alongside William Tilden Blodgett, personally financed the museum's initial "1871 purchase," acquiring a remarkable collection of 174 paintings that laid the groundwork for the Met's future grandeur.

He served as president until 1889, when declining health necessitated his retirement. In recognition of his profound contributions, the museum's Trustees unanimously voted him Honorary President for Life, a testament to his indelible impact. Johnston was not merely an administrator; he was a passionate patron of living American artists and an avid collector, his personal Fifth Avenue mansion housing an impressive array of French academic paintings and works by prominent American artists.

Johnston's personal art collection reflected his discerning taste and support for American talent, featuring works by:

Frederic Edwin Church
Thomas Cole
Asher Brown Durand
John Frederick Kensett
Winslow Homer

This collection underscored his commitment to fostering a vibrant artistic community and preserving significant works for future generations.

Broader Philanthropic Engagements

Beyond his monumental contributions to the railroad and art worlds, Johnston was a dedicated philanthropist and civic leader. His commitment to public service extended to various educational and healthcare institutions:

He served as President of the Governing Board of the University of the City of New York, the institution from which he graduated.
He was a respected member of the boards of the Presbyterian Hospital and the Woman's Hospital of New York, contributing to the advancement of healthcare in the city.
His Scottish heritage was honored through his membership on the board of the Saint Andrew's Society.
He was also an active member of the Century Association and served as a trustee for both the American Museum of Natural History and the National Academy of Design, further cementing his role in New York's cultural and intellectual life.

Personal Life & Family

Family and Residence

In 1851, John Taylor Johnston married Frances Colles (1826–1888), the daughter of James Colles, a prominent merchant with interests in both New York and New Orleans. Together, they built a family that would continue to contribute to American society.

In 1856, Johnston commissioned and resided in what was considered the first marble mansion in New York, located at 8 Fifth Avenue, just north of Washington Square. This grand residence not only served as his home but also as a showcase for his extensive art collection, reflecting his status as a leading figure in New York society.

John and Frances Johnston had five children:

Emily Johnston (1851–1942): Married Robert W. de Forest, a distinguished lawyer, financier, and philanthropist.
Colles Johnston (1853–1886): Died unmarried.
John Herbert Johnston (1855–1931): Married Celestine Noel (1860–1940).
Eva Johnston: Married Henry Eugene Coe.
Frances Johnston (1857–1928): Married Pierre Mali (1856–1923), who served as the Belgian Consul-General in New York.

A Diarist's Perspective

John Taylor Johnston was an active diarist, meticulously documenting his experiences and observations. His journals offer a unique window into 19th-century life, capturing details of his extensive travels through Europe and the United States. These personal records chronicle significant life events, including his wedding excursion and family trips, as well as historical moments such as his visit to Richmond, Virginia, in 1865, shortly after the surrender of the Confederate Army.

His writings also recount a journey west on the newly constructed Union Pacific Railroad, providing valuable insights into the expansion and development of the American frontier. These diaries reveal a man deeply engaged with his world, both personally and historically.

Later Years and Passing

In his later years, Johnston was afflicted with creeping paralysis, a condition possibly identified as multiple sclerosis, which led to his withdrawal from public life. He passed away at his Fifth Avenue estate in New York City on March 24, 1893, at the age of 72.

His funeral was held at the Scotch Presbyterian Church (now the Second Presbyterian Church) in New York, where he had served as an elder, reflecting his deep faith and community involvement. He was interred at Greenwood Cemetery. In his will, Johnston demonstrated his continued commitment to education and the arts, bequeathing $10,000 each to the University of the City of New York and The Metropolitan Museum of Art, ensuring his philanthropic spirit endured beyond his lifetime.

Enduring Legacy

Geographical Markers

John Taylor Johnston's influence is still visible in the geographical landscape of New Jersey, where his railroad endeavors left a lasting mark. Several locations bear his name, commemorating his significant contributions to the region's infrastructure and development.

Johnston Avenue, Jersey City, New Jersey: This thoroughfare, designated County Route 614 for a section of its length, stretches from Bergen Hill to the Liberty State Park Station of the Hudson Bergen Light Rail. The cobblestoned portion continues under the New Jersey Turnpike Newark Bay Extension, leading to the Communipaw Terminal on the Upper New York Bay. In the 1970s, a section was rededicated as Audrey Zapp Drive, honoring a local environmentalist crucial to the park's development.
Port Johnston Coal Docks, Bayonne, New Jersey: Located on Constable Hook, these docks were named in his honor, reflecting his impact on the region's industrial and shipping capabilities.
Former Johnston Avenue Yard: This site served as the terminus for the Lehigh Valley Terminal Railway, a testament to his strategic railroad expansions.
Johnston Drive, Watchung, New Jersey: Situated in the borough just north of his Plainfield home, this road also carries his name, further solidifying his connection to the area's growth.

A Continuing Lineage

The legacy of John Taylor Johnston extends through his descendants, who continue to make their mark in various fields. Notably, through his daughter Frances, Johnston is the great-great-grandfather of the contemporary American slam poet, Taylor Mali. This connection highlights the enduring influence of his family line, demonstrating how the impact of individuals can resonate across generations, manifesting in diverse forms of cultural contribution.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "John Taylor Johnston" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about john_taylor_johnston while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

the diary of a young girl

juan d arienzo

communications satellite

counts and dukes of alen çon

oristano

major league baseball players association

defensive tackle

yelkhovsky district

ptolemy vii neos philopator

university of washington

References

Finding aid for the John Taylor Johnston Collection in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Archives.

JOHN TAYLOR JOHNSTON'S WILL. (6 April 1893). The New York Times (1857-1922) Retrieved 18 July 2014.

A full list of references for this article are available at the John Taylor Johnston Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research, academic consultation, or financial advice. Always refer to primary historical sources, consult with qualified historians or financial experts for specific inquiries, and never disregard professional counsel because of information presented here.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Visionary Patron

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Early Life & Formative Years 👶

📜 A Distinguished Lineage

🎓 Education and Intellectual Development

A Career of Influence 💼

🚂 Railroad Magnate

🖼️ Founding the Metropolitan Museum of Art

🤝 Broader Philanthropic Engagements

Personal Life & Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🏡 Family and Residence

✍️ A Diarist's Perspective

💔 Later Years and Passing

Enduring Legacy 🗺️

📍 Geographical Markers

🌳 A Continuing Lineage

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Early Life & Formative Years

A Distinguished Lineage

Education and Intellectual Development

A Career of Influence

Railroad Magnate

Founding the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Broader Philanthropic Engagements

Personal Life & Family

Family and Residence

A Diarist's Perspective

Later Years and Passing

Enduring Legacy

Geographical Markers

A Continuing Lineage

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice