Background
Grace, William Russell was born on May 10, 1832 in Queenstown, Cork, Ireland. Son of James and Ellen Mary (Russell) Grace.
Grace, William Russell was born on May 10, 1832 in Queenstown, Cork, Ireland. Son of James and Ellen Mary (Russell) Grace.
Ran away from school at 14. Worked his way on a sailing vessel to New York. Employed there for 2 years, returned to Ireland on a visit.
Went to Callao, Peru, 1850. Became clerk, and, in 1852, partner in firm of Bryce & Company, which later became Bryce, Grace & Company, and afterward Grace Brothers & Company Came to New York, 1865. Organized W. R. Grace & Company.
In 1891 established the New York and Pacific Steamship Limited company Mayor of New York, 1881-1882 and 1885-1886. In 1897 founded Grace Institute for affording women and girls a practical education in stenography, dressmaking, millinery, domestic science, etc.
Married Lillius Gilchrist, September 11, 1859.