Woodruff, Robert Winship

Robert Winship Woodruff (1889-1985), business leader and philanthropist, was born in Columbus, Georgia, the son of Ernest and Emily (Winship) Woodruff. He married Nell Hodgson of Athens, Georgia. In 1912, he joined his father's business, Atlantic Ice and Coal Company, serving as the purchasing agent until he joined the White Motor Company. At White Motor, he ascended to vice-president and general manager and when White died in 1929, Woodruff became president of the company. In the meantime his father purchased the Coca-Cola Company in 1919. Woodruff left White Motor in 1923 and served as president of Coca-Cola from 1923-1939 and 1945-1946. He then served in other capacities including the Board of Directors until 1984. As a philanthropist, Woodruff gave to many causes including parks, the arts in Atlanta, universities and colleges, and organizations. He was also an avid sportsman and owned a ranch, TE, in Cody, Wyoming and a plantation, Ichauway, located in South Georgia.

From the description of Robert Winship Woodruff papers, 1819-1993, bulk 1924-1986. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 173863324

Robert Woodruff was a British clerk of John Anstey, who was the commissioner for American Loyalists' claims.

From the guide to the Robert Woodruff journal. December 17, 1785 - May 1, 1788, 1785-1788, (American Philosophical Society)