David Rockefeller, who died Monday at 101, was the last surviving grandson of Standard Oil pioneer John D. Rockefeller and spent 25 years at the helm of Chase Manhattan Bank. But that barely scratches the surface of his profound legacy.
Born to great wealth, Rockefeller (like his four brothers) used it for public service that went far beyond just writing $900 million in charitable checks over his lifetime.
A statesman whose influence was felt ’round the world, his connections in business, philanthropy and politics were “unequaled,” notes his biographer, Ron Chernow.
Yet it was in New York that his influence and activity were most keenly felt.
“No individual has contributed more to the commercial and civic life of New York City over a longer period of time,” said former Mayor Mike Bloomberg. And it’s no exaggeration.
In the 1950s he personally sparked the rebirth of Lower Manhattan, then a decaying area, by insisting on building Chase’s new headquarters there instead of Midtown.
Others followed: From 1960 to 1972, some 45 new office buildings went up in the area. He also helped drive the building of the World Trade Center and Battery Park City.
Then, during New York’s mid-’70s fiscal crisis, Rockefeller took the lead in recruiting the private sector to help craft a rescue plan that allowed the city to escape bankruptcy.
He endowed museums and founded the New York City Partnership, which both funds public-interest projects (including thousands of units of affordable housing) and works to keep the city the center of global commerce and culture.
David Rockefeller was the last of a bygone era. “No one can step into his shoes,” said a longtime friend, “because it’s just a different world.” RIP.