Ole Kirk Christiansen

Early Life and Education

Ole Kirk Christiansen, born on April 7, 1891 in Filskovand, Jutland, Denmark, founded a famous the toy company LEGO. His journey from a humble carpenter to the founder of LEGO is a stroy of perseverance, innovation, and the power of imagination.

Ole was the tenth child of Jens Niels Christiansen and Kirstine Christiansen. Despite growing up in a poor family, young Ole managed to receive basic schooling. He started working as a farmhand at six and became interested in wood whittling.

At 14, Ole began an apprenticeship with his older brother to learn carpentry. His thirst for knowledge and skill led him to work in Germany as a carpenter for five years, starting in 1911. He developed his skills and explored new opportunities at this time.

Family and Early Career

In 1916, Ole returned to Denmark and married Kirstine Sørensen, the daughter of a Norwegian cheese-maker. They settled in Billund, where Ole purchased ‘The Billund Carpentry Shop and Lumberyard’. After the birth of their fourth child, Kirstine passed away, leaving Ole to care for their children by himself.

The Birth of LEGO

The Great Depression had a severe impact on Denmark in the 1930s, leading Ole to make changes to his business. He began creating small, affordable wooden products, including toys. These toys quickly became his best-selling items, leading Ole to focus on toy production.

In 1934, Ole held a competition among his employees to name the company. The winning name was “LEGO,” derived from the Danish words “leg godt,” meaning “play well.” Coincidentally, it was later discovered that “LEGO” also means “I put together” in Latin.

Overcoming Adversity

Ole’s journey was not without challenges. His sons accidentally started a fire in 1924 that burned down his workshop and family home. Ole rebuilt a larger workshop and apartment even after the tragedy. Another fire in 1942 destroyed his factory, stock, and blueprints. Despite these difficulties, Ole kept going, showcasing determination with each restoration.

The Plastic Revolution

In 1947, Ole became the first toy manufacturer in Denmark to purchase a plastic injection molding machine, a decision that was pivotal. This move, while initially challenging for the wood craftsman, set the stage for LEGO’s future success.

Legacy and Final Years

Ole Kirk Christiansen passed away on March 11, 1958, at the age of 66, just as LEGO was on the cusp of global success. His son Godtfred took over the company, continuing his father’s legacy of innovation and quality.

Ole’s life story is one of resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment to quality. His motto, “Only the best is good enough,” continues to guide the LEGO Group today. Ole Kirk Christiansen’s journey embodies the very spirit of play and possibility that LEGO represents.