The Story of America's Most Unconventional Dynasty: The Gettys

The Gettys are one of America's most unconventional dynasties. They made their fortune in oil, but they've also been involved in scandal, philanthropy, and art collecting. This article tells the story of the Gettys, from their humble beginnings to their rise to prominence.

Growing Up Getty: The Story of America's Most Unconventional Dynasty

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The Early Years

The Getty family's story begins in Ireland in the 18th century. The family patriarch, Arthur Getty, was a farmer who emigrated to the United States in 1746. He settled in Pennsylvania, where he married and had several children.

One of Arthur Getty's sons, George, was born in 1755. George Getty followed in his father's footsteps and became a farmer. He also served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War.

George Getty's son, Thomas, was born in 1783. Thomas Getty was a successful businessman and politician. He served in the Pennsylvania State Legislature and the United States Congress.

The Oil Tycoon

Thomas Getty's son, George Franklin Getty, was born in 1855. George Franklin Getty was a brilliant businessman who made his fortune in the oil industry. In 1901, he founded the Getty Oil Company.

Getty Oil Company quickly became one of the largest oil companies in the world. George Franklin Getty became one of the richest men in America. He was known for his lavish lifestyle and his love of art.

The Scandal

George Franklin Getty's son, J. Paul Getty, was born in 1892. J. Paul Getty inherited his father's fortune and became one of the richest men in the world. He was also known for his eccentric personality and his involvement in several scandals.

In 1973, J. Paul Getty's grandson, John Paul Getty III, was kidnapped by Italian terrorists. The terrorists demanded a ransom of $17 million. J. Paul Getty initially refused to pay the ransom, saying that he had 14 other grandchildren and that he would not set a precedent.

However, after several months, J. Paul Getty eventually paid the ransom. John Paul Getty III was released unharmed, but the incident damaged J. Paul Getty's reputation.

The Philanthropist

Despite his involvement in scandal, J. Paul Getty was also a generous philanthropist. He donated millions of dollars to museums, universities, and other charitable organizations.

In 1953, J. Paul Getty founded the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles. The museum houses one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of art.

The Art Collector

J. Paul Getty was a passionate art collector. He amassed a collection of over 2,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Getty's art collection is now housed in the J. Paul Getty Museum. The museum is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Los Angeles.

The Legacy

The Gettys are one of America's most fascinating families. They have made their mark on history in many ways, both positive and negative.

The Gettys are a reminder that wealth and power can come at a price. They are also a reminder that even the most unconventional of families can leave a lasting legacy.

Timeline of the Getty Family

• 1746: Arthur Getty emigrates from Ireland to the United States.
• 1755: George Getty, son of Arthur Getty, is born.
• 1783: Thomas Getty, son of George Getty, is born.
• 1855: George Franklin Getty, son of Thomas Getty, is born.
• 1901: George Franklin Getty founds the Getty Oil Company.
• 1892: J. Paul Getty, son of George Franklin Getty, is born.
• 1953: J. Paul Getty founds the J. Paul Getty Museum.
• 1973: John Paul Getty III, grandson of J. Paul Getty, is kidnapped.
• 1974: J. Paul Getty pays a ransom of $17 million for the release of John Paul Getty III.
• 1976: J. Paul Getty dies at the age of 83.

Further Reading

• The J. Paul Getty Museum
• The Lives, the Loves, and the Art of the Gettys by Deborah Davis
• All the Money in the World: The Getty Kidnapping Case by David Grann