A true free enterprise hero in the Carolinas that trailblazed the way for trademark branding, marketing, and advertising in the textile industry. Altruistic and charitable, Cannon’s kindness within his community extended not only to his employees and their families, but also to local churches, schools, hospitals, and libraries.
FREE ENTERPRISE HERO
1892 - 1971
FOUNDING MEMBER CHARLES A. CANNON FREE ENTERPRISE HALL OF FAME
Charles A. Cannon
2001 INDUCTEE
His Work & Legacy
CHILDHOOD
CAREER
CHARLES A. CANNON
Hard work and perseverance
LEGACY
CHILDHOOD / EARLY YEARS
AFTER HIS FATHER’S PASSING IN 1921, HE TOOK OVER THE CANNON TEXTILE INDUSTRY AND BECAME ONE OF THE YOUNGEST INDUSTRIAL MANAGERS IN THE WORLD.
Cannon’s first experience in the textile industry was at an early age. After attending Fishburne Military Academy and Davidson College, Cannon entered the textile industry himself, achieving success as a manager, treasurer and secretary.
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His Career
Cannon was the youngest of 10 children and the son of a textile mill owner.
BORN 1892 IN CONCORD, NC
Cannon consolidated the Cannon manufacturing plants to one entity, The Cannon Mills Company.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER / ACHIEVEMENTS
CANNON PROVIDED AFFORDABLE HOUSING, SHOPPING, RECREATION, “HANDS ON” SUPPORT AND HIRED A NURSE TO CARE FOR THE EMPLOYEES
Often referred to as a marketing genius, Cannon used advertising, packaging, and trademark branding to catapult his company to national success. Concern for the good of others was always important to Cannon and his employee care benefits were ahead of his time.
Expanded his successfull business
His Legacy
BACK: CHILDHOOD
HIS GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT
The Cannon Mills Company used advertising, packaging, and trademark to brand his company.
CABARRUS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Cannon founded the hospital in 1937. Today the hospital is known as Carolina’s Medical Center Northeast.
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THE BELK COMPANY WAS ONE OF THE LAST PRIVATELY OWNED RETAIL CHAINS IN THE USA. IN 2015 BELK COMPANY WAS ADQUIRED BY SYCAMORE PARTNERS, BASED IN NEW YORK.
Following World War II, Cannon was a major contributor to Wingate College (now Wingate University). His generosity helped the campus grow and allowed them to expand the curriculum.
Charles A. Cannon died in 1971.
CHARLES A. CANNON
CHARLES CANNON ESTABLISHED A TRUST TO CARRY ON THE PHILANTHROPY HE FOCUSED ON IN HIS LIFE.
Community impact and legacy
In 1943, Cannon established the Cannon Foundation. The foundation provides grants for hospitals, schools, human services organizations, and community non-profit organizations.
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Hero Quiz
NEXT: QUIZ
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Charles Cannon was an influential member and helped create what textile organization? He understood how important this industry was to the people and the economy of North Carolina.
YOUR ANSWER WAS CORRECT!
YOUR ANSWER WAS INCORRECT!
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The correct answer is #3
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HERO QUIZ
1 / 2
Textile Workers Union
1
Cotton Manufacturers Institute
2
American Cotton Manufacturers Association
3
Next Question
The correct answer is #1
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In 1921, when Cannon took charge of the Cannon Mills Company, the company experienced the “golden years”. Approximately how many towels do you think were produced each day during this time?
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2 / 2
It produced
300,000
150,000
2
425,000
Finish Quiz
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