George Dayton

George Draper Dayton (March 6, 1857 – February 18, 1938) was an American businessman and philanthropist, most famous for being the founder of Dayton's department store, which later became Target Corporation. Life and career Dayton was born in Clifton Springs, New York, the son of Caroline Wesley (Draper) and David Day Dayton. In 1883, he moved to Minnesota, migrating from New York. His family was one of average means and he had hoped to become a minister, but was lured into the business world. He married Emma Chadwick in 1878 and began buying farm mortgages in southwest Minnesota. In 1883 he and his family moved to Worthington, Minnesota where he was able to build wealth in the growing economy. He presided over the Bank of Worthington and founded the Minnesota Loan and Investment Company, advancing his social status and prosperity. In 1890 he built a large home on eight lots, designed by Sioux Falls architect Wallace Dow. He was also a donor to and trustee of Macalester College in Saint Paul, Minnesota, where George Draper Dayton Hall is named in his honor.