New Brunswick in Middlesex County, New Jersey — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Innovation
Johnson & Johnson
— Robert Wood Johnson / Frederick Barnett Kilmer —
Robert Wood Johnson founded Johnson & Johnson with his two brothers, Edward Mead and James Wood in 1886. Launched as an innovative startup, they invented the world's first mass-produced sterile surgical supplies.
That same year James found a factory for rent in New Brunswick and this building became Johnson & Johnson's first home. It opened its doors with just 14 employees: eight women and six men.
In 1889, the company hired local pharmacist Fred Kilmer as its scientific director. Among Kilmer's first and greatest achievements was the industrial sterilization process. Originally, employees at the company sterilized products by hand. The switch to machine was revolutionary in the production of medical supplies.
Over the last 130 years, J&J has led the field of public health with cutting edge products and new ideas. A true manifestation of pure innovation founded and thriving here in New Brunswick.
Visit the Johnson & Johnson virtual museum to learn much more at: ourstory.jnj.com
Erected by Johnson & Johnson.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Industry & Commerce • Science & Medicine. A significant historical year for this entry is 1886.
Location. 40° 29.812′ N, 74° 26.668′
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Route Taken by Washington (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); New Brunswick Station (about 500 feet away); New Brunswick Inn Site (about 500 feet away); Queen’s Campus (about 500 feet away); The First Classes of Queen's College (Rutgers University) (about 500 feet away); Kirkpatrick Chapel (about 600 feet away); Saint Peter the Apostle R.C. Church (about 600 feet away); Christ Church (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in New Brunswick.
Credits. This page was last revised on October 30, 2022. It was originally submitted on October 30, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 92 times since then and 24 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on October 30, 2022, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
