20th Century Trailblazer fromsimplebeginnings
Kemmons Wilson once said: "Put opportunity ahead of security." Wise words from a man who knew how to recognize an opportunity wherever it was, and who had the vision needed to make the most of it.
From his humble beginnings with a loving and devoted mother, Kemmons Wilson developed a drive, daring and perseverance that built him several fortunes and shook the foundations of more than one industry.
ribboncuttingBut it was his deep and lifelong commitment to family that had been instrumental in shaping the innovative ideas that made him great—first Holiday Inns, then Orange Lake and other family businesses. And, grateful for the opportunities he had, he reached out to create better opportunities for others and to give back to the community in numerous ways.
A classic tale of rags to riches with many twists along the way, the life of Kemmons Wilson was an awesome journey, and truly one of the 20th Century's most interesting stories.