Will Keith Kellogg

Early Life and Background

William Keith Kellogg, aka Will Keith Kellogg, was an American industrialist in food manufacturing who is best known for his involvement in the creation of Kellogg’s cereal company. W.K. Kellogg was born on April 7, 1860, in Battle Creek, Michigan. He was also known for founding the Kellogg Arabian Ranch, which breeds Arabian horses. He was the seventh child of Ann Janette Kellogg and John Preston Kellogg. They were Seventh-Day Adventists, which influenced many aspects of Will Keith Kellogg’s life, including his dietary and lifestyle choices.

Kellogg was brought up on a farm and had limited formal education. By the time he was 14, he had dropped out of school to work in his father’s broom company. In 1881, he took a three-month business course at Parson’s Business College in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Career Beginnings at the Western Health Reform Institute

Will Keith Kellogg began working at the Western Health Reform Institute, which was run by his brother Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, in Battle Creek, Michigan. The institute focused on various health treatments and therapies, including hydrotherapy, phototherapy, and thermotherapy. Here, Kellogg developed a passion for health and nutrition, which later influenced his career.

Invention of Flaked Cereals

In 1894, while working at the sanitarium, Kellogg stumbled upon his most notable invention—the process of creating flaked cereals. He left a batch of boiled wheat overnight, leading to the formation of flaky wheat pieces. Kellogg refined the process and applied it to other grains. His experimentation led to the development of cornflakes. Inspired by his work, he aimed to create nutritious and easily digestible foods.

Founding the Kellogg Company

In 1906, Kellogg co-founded the Battle Creek Toasted Corn Flake Company, later known as the Kellogg Company. This was his most significant achievement during his career.

Innovations in Marketing and Advertising

Beyond being an innovator in product development, Kellogg also took part in marketing and advertising. He understood the importance of building a strong brand and engaging with consumers. His company was the first to use colorful packaging, eye-catching slogans, and include toys in cereal boxes. He also introduced recipes and cooking tips to encourage consumer interaction. Under his leadership, the Kellogg Company expanded its reach beyond the United States, spreading the popularity of ready-to-eat cereals across the globe.

Establishment of the Kellogg Foundation

In 1930, Kellogg established the Will Keith Kellogg Foundation, ultimately donating $66 million to it. This demonstrated his commitment to philanthropy and improving society.

Passion for Arabian Horses

Beyond his contributions to his company, Kellogg also had a deep passion for Arabian horses. This led him to purchase a vast expanse of land in Pomona, California, to establish an Arabian horse ranch. His commitment to the Arabian horse legacy was further demonstrated when he donated the ranch to the University of California. Kellogg’s involvement in Arabian horse breeding and his establishment of a prominent ranch symbolized his adaptable nature.

Legacy and Death

Kellogg’s impact on society extends far beyond creating flaked cereals. His innovations in marketing techniques left an indelible mark on the business world. Will Keith Kellogg passed away on October 6, 1951, at the age of 91 in his hometown, Battle Creek, Michigan, due to circulatory illness. He was buried at Oak Hill Cemetery.