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The story begins with Truman Newberry, born in Detroit in 1864, at a time when opportunity and class privileges molded his early years. His father, John Newberry, was a pioneering industrialist who bolstered Detroit’s growth in the late 19th century. After graduating from Yale in 1885, Truman immersed himself in the family’s business empire, quickly ascending to key leadership roles. By the age of 23, he was president and treasurer of the Detroit Steel & Spring Company, and by 1887, he led the Detroit and Bay City & Alpena Railway Company—establishing his reputation as a shrewd and capable executive.