Jessie Ball duPont (1884-1970) and her husband, Alfred, became winter residents of Jacksonville in 1927. The duPonts and Jessie's brother, Edward Ball, had many business interests in Florida. She was personally involved in the Florida National Bank, the St. Joe Paper Company, and the Florida East Coast Railway.

When her husband died in 1935, she became the principal trustee of his estate. In his memory, she created three foundations, including one in Florida to assist the state's needy. When she died in 1970, her will established the Jessie Ball duPont Religious, Charitable and Educational Fund.

Information provided by the Florida Division of Historical Resources.

Edited by Cynthia Catellier, University of West Florida Department of Public History