William Butterworth (businessman)

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William Butterworth served as both President and Chairman of Deere & Company.

Butterworth was born in Ohio, graduated from Lehigh University and studied law at the National University in Washington D.C.

In 1892 Butteworth married Katherine Deere, daughter of Charles Deere. He joined Deere & Company the same year as an assistant buyer. In 1897 he was elected treasurer, and became president after the death of Charles Deere in 1907.

Deere & Company underwent many changes during Butterworth's tenure. In 1910 the board of directors reorganized the company's factories into one unified entity, giving birth to the modern Deere & Company. In 1912 Deere began manufacturing combine harvesters. In 1918 the company purchased Waterloo Gasoline Engine Company and the rights to produce their tractors. Butterworth also implemented a pension system and a benefit and disability program for Deere & Company's employees.

Butterworth retired in 1928 and became the first Chairman of Deere & Company's board, a position he held until his death in 1936.