Our History

Joseph L. Hudson, who had emigrated from England as a child, opens a small men’s and boys’ store in Detroit called the J. L. Hudson Company, which grew to be the city’s largest department store. While growing his business, Hudson developed a strong commitment to Detroit’s charities, civic boards and committees.

Hudson, who never married, trains the four sons of his sister, Mary, and her husband, Joseph T. Webber, as merchants, preparing them for future management responsibilities and instilling in them a strong sense of social responsibility.

Upon Hudson’s death, the Webber brothers inherit the majority of the company’s stock. Richard H. Webber becomes President, James B. and Joseph L. Webber become the Merchandise Directors, and Oscar Webber becomes the General Manager.

Under the Webber brothers’ management, the company continues to expand while pioneering new merchandising approaches. During their lifetimes, they grew the company into one of America’s most important department store chains, including several of the world’s largest shopping centers.

Eloise and Richard Webber provide substantial gifts to establish the Eloise and Richard Webber Foundation. Their daughters – Jean Webber Sutphin and Mary Webber Parker – and Richard’s sister, Louise Webber O’Brien, also provide important contributions.

The Hudson-Webber Foundation is founded with major gifts provided by the J.L. Hudson Company and Richard, Joseph and Oscar Webber. Significant contributions are also provided by company employees and other members of the family.

The Richard H. and Eloise Jenks Webber Charitable Fund Inc. is established.

The three foundations merge to become the Hudson-Webber Foundation. Gilbert Hudson is named the Foundation’s inaugural President & CEO, and Joseph L. Hudson Jr., is named Chairman of the Board.