He presided over the Bank of Worthington and founded the Minnesota Loan and Investment Company, advancing his social status and prosperity. In 1890 he built a large home on eight lots, designed by Sioux Falls architect Wallace Dow. Dayton continued to live by his religious principles by improving his community and dedicating himself to the service of others; he served on the Worthington Board of Education, and was church clerk, elder, and trustee of Westminster Presbyterian Church, teaching Sunday School and hosting church events at his home.
In 1902 he purchased land on Nicollet Avenue in Minneapolis and founded Dayton's Dry Goods store, later to become Dayton's department store. Dayton’s dedication to service continued after his move to Minneapolis, as he continued to donate significant sums of money to the Worthington church and he established The Dayton Foundation, dedicated to promoting the welfare of humankind. In 1926, he served on the finance committee for the Community Fund, a predecessor of today's United Way. Dayton's sons David Draper Dayton (1880-1923) and George Nelson Dayton (1886-1950) continued their father's business and his commitment to the community.
In 1956, the Daytons built Southdale Center in Edina, Minnesota, the first enclosed shopping center in the United States. In 1962 Dayton's began the Target discount store chain.
George Nelson Dayton was father to Bruce Dayton and grandfather to former Minnesota Senator Mark Dayton.
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Last updated on Saturday July 05, 2008 at 13:00:31 PDT (GMT -0700)
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