An entrepreneur whose name is associated with a wide range of food products around the world, Henry John Heinz (1844–1919) spent his life and built his legendary namesake business in the Pittsburgh area.

The founder of the H. J. Heinz Company was born in what is now the city’s South Side and raised in Sharpsburg, which sits a few miles up the Allegheny River from Pittsburgh. He began selling produce from his mother’s garden at age 8, and at 25, using her horseradish recipe, he launched Anchor Pickle and Vinegar Works, the first iteration of what would become his famous Heinz food brand.

Heinz emphasized cleanliness, honesty, and innovation in manufacturing and marketing, and he became known for producing high-quality, packaged food products. His most famous product, Heinz Tomato Ketchup, became a household staple in many countries, and the company’s well-known slogan, “57 Varieties,” proved to be one of the most recognized marketing campaigns in history. In addition, the conscientious businessman pioneered national food safety regulations and progressive welfare standards for his workers.

H. J. Heinz’s business practices and commitment to quality transformed the food industry, and his legacy continues today through the global success of the Heinz brand and its wide range of food products.