John Sloan (businessman)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
John Sloan | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 28, 1904 Nashville, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Died | March 15, 1988 (aged 83) Brentwood, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Alma mater | Vanderbilt University |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Spouse | Margaret Howe |
| Children | 4, including John Sloan Jr. |
John Sloan (June 28, 1904 – March 15, 1988)[1] was an American businessman. He served as the president of Cain-Sloan, a department store in Nashville, Tennessee, from 1937 to 1970, including during the 1960 Nashville sit-ins.
Sloan was born on June 28, 1904.[2] His father, Paul Sloan, was a co-founder of Cain-Sloan, a department store.[3] His paternal great-grandfather, George Sloan, was a friend of President James K. Polk.[4]
Sloan graduated from Vanderbilt University in 1925.[2][3]
Career
Sloan began his career as a salesman at Cain-Sloan. He climbed through the ranks and became vice president from 1933 to 1937 and president of Cain Sloan Co when he was 30. name="tennesseanobitjohnesloan"/>[3] The company merged with Dillard's in 1987. He served as a director of First American National Bank, Tennessee Electric Power, Co. and the NC & St.L Railroad, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Tennessee, and the National Dry Goods Association. He served as president of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce during 1943-1944, President of Vanderbilt Alumni Association 1943-1946, Life Member of the Vanderbilt University Board of Trust, President of the Boys Club of Nashville, Commissioner of Williamson County Court continually from 198? to his death. He was President of Montgomery Bell Academy Board of Trust for 27 years.
As president of Cain-Sloan during the 1960 Nashville sit-ins, Sloan argued that desegregation would be detrimental to the private sector.[5] He also conspired with James G. Stahlman to expel the leader of the sit-ins, James Lawson, from his alma mater, Vanderbilt University, on whose board of trust both men served.[5]