He was a businessman, a musician, an inventor, a communicator, a philanthropist.

He was a man to remember...

Alfred Irenee duPont (1864-1935) was born into a remarkable family. At the age of 13 his parents died within a month of each other. Alfred and his older sister were determined to keep the children together in spite of the family's desire to split the children up. The five children held strong and remained in their home, under the care of visiting relatives. This early strength and determination became a hallmark of his life.

He attended MIT but soon left to pursue a career in the duPont family's powder making business. Alfred began as a laborer and mastered the art of powder making. His creativity and business sense became evident early in his career - designing and inventing new machinery for the business. During his life, Alfred had over 200 patents for his inventions. He rose to prominence in the business world because of his natural talent for investment and taking on new business opportunities.

Alfred was blind in one eye and suffered from a serious hearing loss early in his career, eventually becoming completely deaf. All of this did not deter his drive and enthusiasm. Alfred used every minute of his life to the fullest... he wrote music, directed an orchestra, supervised the building of two remarkable Mansion's - one of which is the place where he died - Epping Forest.

His greatest accomplishment is evident today in the number of people who continue to benefit from his wealth and philanthropy. Upon his death, Alfred's will placed considerable assets into a Trust to serve children and the elderly. The Nemours Foundation is the living testament to his generosity and concern for others. Today, we acknowledge the wonderful spirit of this man and remember him as a giving, caring man.