Leland Stanford

~ 1824 - 1893

Leland Stanford (1824-1893) was an American industrialist, politician, and philanthropist best known as the founder of Stanford University and as a key figure in the development of the Central Pacific Railroad. He served as the Governor of California from 1862 to 1863 and was a prominent advocate for the development of the western United States. Stanford's legacy includes his contributions to education and transportation, which helped shape the growth of California.