David Green, born on November 13, 1941, is not just a billionaire businessman but also the visionary founder of Hobby Lobby, a renowned chain of arts and crafts stores. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Green is widely recognized for his unwavering support of Evangelical organizations in the United States. His dedication to his faith and philanthropic endeavors is evident in the Museum of the Bible, a significant cultural institution he generously funded in Washington, D.C. Zatrun.com has taken a closer look at the life and accomplishments of this remarkable figure, tracing his journey from modest beginnings to extraordinary achievements.
Early Ventures and the Birth of Hobby Lobby
David Green’s journey to becoming a prominent figure in the world of business started with a modest $600 loan and a home business venture. In 1970, while working as a store manager with the variety store chain TG&Y, he embarked on a unique entrepreneurial endeavor.
Together with his partner, Larry Pico, he began assembling and selling miniature picture frames from his garage. The venture, known as Greco Products, capitalizing on a decorating trend of the time, gained traction. Green eventually bought out his partner and even employed cerebral palsy patients, paying them ten cents per frame.
By August 1972, the business had evolved, focusing primarily on arts and crafts, and the Greens opened their first 300 square-foot store in northwest Oklahoma City, naming it Hobby Lobby. The initial success was evident, and by 1975, Green left his 13-year career with TG&Y to establish a second Hobby Lobby location, boasting 6,000 square feet of space.
David Green: Faith and Philanthropy
David Green’s journey as an entrepreneur is deeply intertwined with his Christian faith. He firmly believes in building his business on biblical principles and has consistently demonstrated his commitment to Christian organizations. Green is recognized as one of the largest individual donors to Evangelical causes in the United States.
He allocates an impressive fifty percent of Hobby Lobby’s total pretax earnings to support a portfolio of evangelical ministries. As of 2012, his donations were estimated at approximately $500 million. Green’s commitment to his faith extends beyond philanthropy; he has also taken public stances on matters of moral and religious significance.
He openly opposed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, due to its inclusion of a provision mandating the inclusion of the “morning-after pill” in health coverage. This principled stance led him to sue the federal government in the landmark case Burwell v. Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc., resulting in a significant overturning of the mandate.
A Family Legacy
David Green’s passion for entrepreneurship and philanthropy is undoubtedly a family affair. He resides in southwest Oklahoma City with his wife, Barbara. Together, they own Hobby Lobby and have passed on their values and commitment to their three children. Their eldest son, Mart Green, is the founder and CEO of the Mardel Christian & Education book store and Every Tribe Entertainment.
Steve Green, another son, is the president of Hobby Lobby and also the founder and primary funder of the Museum of the Bible. The Greens’ daughter, Darsee Lett, serves as the Creative Director for the Hobby Lobby stores, continuing the family’s legacy of creativity and entrepreneurship.
The Museum of the Bible
One of David Green’s most notable philanthropic endeavors is the Museum of the Bible, which he generously funded with a staggering $500 million. This remarkable cultural institution, located in Washington, D.C., is a testament to Green’s commitment to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of the Bible.
However, the museum has faced its share of controversies, including allegations of artifacts acquired without proper documentation. In 2017, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced the return of 3,800 ancient artifacts discovered in the Hobby Lobby warehouse to the Republic of Iraq.
In 2020, an additional 11,500 artifacts were returned to Egypt and Iraq. The museum also faced scrutiny regarding a collection of papyrus fragments, purportedly part of the Dead Sea Scrolls, which were later revealed to be forgeries. Furthermore, in July 2020, Forbes magazine reported that the museum had received a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to retain jobs while remaining closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
David Green’s journey from a small garage business to founding one of the most well-known arts and crafts retail chains is nothing short of inspirational. His faith, coupled with his commitment to philanthropy, has left an indelible mark on both the business and religious landscape in the United States.
While the Museum of the Bible has faced its share of challenges, it stands as a testament to his dedication to preserving the Bible’s legacy for future generations. David Green’s life story is a testament to the extraordinary impact of entrepreneurship, faith, and unwavering dedication to one’s principles.
