August A. Busch, Jr.
Former Chair Man
Anheuser-Busch
Laureate 2006
August (Gussie) A. Busch Jr. was born on March 28, 1899. He was the second youngest of Alice and August Busch Sr.’s five children. Gussie grew up in St. Louis, next to the brewery that his grandfather, Adolphus, had built into a beer industry leader. Gussie received his formal education in St. Louis. During his teen years, Gussie did chores at the brewery where his father and older brother, Adolphus III, also worked. Gussie’s first job at Anheuser-Busch was assistant manager of the garage and stables in 1924. Gussie progressed within the company and later led it to become America’s largest brewery. As a businessman, civic leader and sportsman, Gussie’s public and professional career spanned 67 years. Gussie displayed a talent for business, showmanship and an intense commitment to his company, his community and his country. His business achievements included building more breweries, and the introduction of Busch beer, a beer the working man could easily afford; the launch of the Budweiser bow-tie as a famous symbol for the brand; and the development of Busch Gardens, the company’s start in the theme park business. He recognized the everyday pleasure of enjoying beer at a ballgame and helped make sports marketing a business strategy. He is remembered for his support of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team, which the company purchased under his leadership. He was a respected leader in St. Louis and around the world. Gussie Busch died on September 29, 1989, at the age of 90.
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