A Life’s Work & Legacy
The Endowment, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, shares its name and founder with the entities noted below, but all are separate organizations. Together, they reflect James B. Duke’s lasting commitment to social uplift and economic progress.
Duke University
In 1924, through the Endowment’s Indenture of Trust, Mr. Duke provided for the creation and funding of Duke University. The existing institution, Trinity College, changed its name to Duke University as a memorial to Mr.
Duke’s father, Washington. Since inception, the Endowment has awarded Duke University nearly $2 billion, which equates to nearly $5 billion in today’s dollars. It is one of four institutions of higher learning Mr. Duke specified to receive support from the Endowment. The others are Davidson College, Furman University and Johnson C. Smith University.
Duke Energy
Mr. Duke established the hydroelectric power company to provide a robust and reliable power grid for the region and fuel its economic growth. Duke Energy also generated the funds that would power Mr. Duke’s philanthropic vision and establish The Duke Endowment. Today, Duke Energy is a widely held public company.
Doris Duke Charitable Foundation
Established by the daughter of James B. Duke as a separate private foundation, the New York-based Doris Duke Charitable Foundation supports the performing arts, environmental conservation, medical research and the prevention of child maltreatment.
Duke Farms
The 2,700-acre estate in Hillsborough, New Jersey, was developed by James B. Duke, bequeathed to his daughter Doris, and is now owned and supported by the Duke Farms Foundation, an operating foundation of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation.
Duke Mansion
Built in 1915, this Charlotte, North Carolina, estate was tripled in size by James B. Duke after he bought it to introduce his New York-born daughter Doris to life in the South. The home is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is now operated as a nonprofit with all proceeds used to preserve and protect this community treasure.
Duke Homestead
A restored historic site, this living museum features the home, factories and farm where Washington Duke first grew and processed tobacco. The homestead is operated by North Carolina Historic Sites, a division of the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources Office of Archives and History.