Palmer, Bertha and Potter

Bertha Honore (1849–1918)
and Potter Palmer (1826–1902)
Philanthropists and entrepreneurs

Potter Palmer speculated in Chicago real estate and was singularly responsible for establishing State Street as Chicago’s principal retail thoroughfare.

Bertha Honore Palmer was a strong advocate of women’s rights and actively worked to have the diverse achievements of women fully represented at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Mrs. Palmer also was an astute art collector and many of the Art Institute’s Impressionist paintings once were part of her personal collection.