Scott, Foresman and Company - 1960-1963 dated Illinois Stock Certificate

Stock printed by Franklin Lee Division - American Bank Note Co. Incorporated in 1896.

Established in Chicago in 1896 by Erastus Howard Scott, Hugh A. Foresman, and William C. Foresman, Scott, Foresman and Company swiftly established itself as a prominent figure in the American educational publishing industry. Originating from an earlier partnership known as Albert, Scott & Co., its formal incorporation in 1896 marked the commencement of its dominance in the textbook market. The company prioritized pedagogical innovation, emphasizing the provision of high-quality instructional materials that aligned with the evolving requirements of American classrooms during the early 20th century. By securing the rights to influential titles and upholding rigorous editorial standards, the firm gained widespread recognition among educators and students alike.

The company’s most notable achievement is arguably its introduction of the “Dick and Jane” basal readers in the 1930s. These readers revolutionized the reading instruction of millions of American children through the “look-say” method. Throughout the 20th century, Scott, Foresman and Company expanded its presence into diverse subjects, including mathematics and science, while maintaining its reputation for reliability and academic excellence. After several decades of independence and significantly shaping the intellectual landscape of U.S. schools, the company underwent a series of acquisitions commencing in the late 1980s. Presently, its historic legacy continues under the auspices of Savvas Learning Company, following its previous integration into Pearson Education.