HANNA, LEONARD C., JR. (5 Nov. 1889-5 Oct. 1957), a philanthropist who, during his lifetime, contributed over $90 million to cultural and charitable institutions; and a director of the M. A. HANNA & CO., was born in Cleveland to Leonard and Coralie (Walker) Hanna. He attended University School, Hill School in Pottstown, Pa., and Yale University. After graduation from Yale, he worked in the iron and steel industry to gain experience. He then served with the Army Signal Corps in WORLD WAR I. After the war he returned to Cleveland and was admitted to the partnership of M. A. Hanna & Co. (which later became Hanna Mining) in 1917.
Hanna was an avid art collector, theatergoer, and patron of the arts, as well boxing and BASEBALL fan. His coterie of friends included Yale classmate, Cole Porter, journalist WINSOR FRENCH , and a number of notable figures from the theater and arts. He maintained an apartment in New York City where he often hosted parties and events. In 1914 he joined the Cleveland Museum of Art's advisory committee, and beginning in 1920 he served on the Accessions Committee. In 1941 he incorporated the Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund, and as president and one of its trustees, was responsible for dispensing millions of dollars to institutions in Ohio, including KARAMU HOUSE, the CLEVELAND PLAY HOUSE, UNIVERSITY HOSPITALS, and Western Reserve University. From 1942-44 he served with the American Red Cross in England, establishing and directing recreational centers for American airmen stationed in England. At his death, Hanna left a bequest of over $33 million to the CLEVELAND MUSEUM OF ART. Hanna, never married, died at his home "Hilo" in Kirtland. He was buried in Kirtland, but is memorialized by a headstone in LAKE VIEW CEMETERY.
