The Early Years

In 1915, at the age of 20, Samuel Shapiro sat at his $5 roll-top desk and launched what would become a legendary “vessel” in Baltimore’s famous harbor—Samuel Shapiro & Company, Inc. It would also become esteemed worldwide for financial security, business integrity, excellent relationships with government, and creative people delivering dependable solutions. By the end of 1916, the Company had made just $50, but Samuel still gave more than 20% of his profit to the American Jewish Relief Fund. That’s when the Shapiro name began to emerge as one embodying that rare combination of financial responsibility, integrity and generosity.