Lila Acheson Wallace

Date of Birth: December 25, 1889

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: May 8, 1984

Biography

Lila Acheson Wallace was an influential American publisher and philanthropist, best known as the co-founder of Reader’s Digest, one of the world’s most widely-read magazines. Born in Canada and raised in the United States, Lila Acheson Wallace’s journey into the publishing world began when she met her future husband, DeWitt Wallace, who shared her passion for creating a magazine that would condense articles and make important information accessible to a broad audience. Together, they launched Reader’s Digest in 1922, which quickly became a staple in American households and expanded globally. Lila Acheson Wallace’s contribution to Reader’s Digest was not limited to editorial work; she played a crucial role in the magazine’s operations, marketing strategies, and philanthropic endeavors. Under her stewardship, Reader’s Digest grew to become one of the most successful publications in history. Lila was also known for her generous support of the arts, education, and medical research, establishing numerous foundations and scholarships that continue to benefit society today.

5 Interesting Facts about Lila Acheson Wallace

1. Lila Acheson Wallace was born in Thorndale, Ontario, Canada, and moved to the United States as a child.

2. She co-founded Reader’s Digest with her husband, DeWitt Wallace, with an initial investment of $5,000.

3. Reader’s Digest was originally published in their Greenwich Village apartment.

4. Lila was a significant benefactor to various institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Juilliard School.

5. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1972 for her contributions to American culture and philanthropy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Lila Acheson Wallace

1. “Reader’s Digest is a magazine that can be read in a single sitting and provide a wealth of knowledge.”

2. “Success is not measured by what you accomplish, but by the opposition you have encountered, and the courage with which you have maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.”

3. “Philanthropy is not about money. It’s about feeling the pain of others and caring enough about their needs to help.”

4. “We wanted to create a magazine that would appeal to the average person, offering condensed articles that were informative and enjoyable.”

5. “The essence of Reader’s Digest is to provide a well-rounded perspective on life, touching on various aspects that matter to people.”