Squibb Corporation

The Squibb Corporation, now part of Bristol-Myers Squibb, was founded by E.R. Squibb in 1858. Squibb, a chemist and U.S. Navy medical officer, was motivated by the poor quality of medicines he observed. He developed methods for creating pure and reliable drugs, including safer ways to produce anesthetic ether and processes for making chloroform and other preparations.1

Squibb did not patent his innovations, instead publishing his designs. His company grew significantly, supplying drugs during the Civil War and advocating for better drug regulation. In 1989, Squibb Corporation merged with Bristol-Myers Company, forming a major biopharmaceutical entity that produces pharmaceuticals, vitamins, and medical devices.12