Moving to a new city can be a difficult experience for a family. Thomas W. Briggs realized this, too, and thought that he'd do something to make it easier. Taking a cue from the Conestoga wagons that greeted westward travelers with fresh food and water as they approached the distant frontier, Mr. Briggs founded in 1928 the business that became Welcome Wagon International, Inc. His idea was to help newcomers settle into their new communities, bearing baskets of goodies and information about such things as neighborhood associations, schools, community events, local services and civic organizations.

Welcome Wagon was founded in Memphis, but it quickly became a household name, bringing people far and wide together for nearly 70 years. Recently, though, in light of changing times, the focus of Welcome Wagon has changed a bit. No longer do newcomers see a visitor at the front door, but that doesn't mean they don't receive help. Personalized service has remained important, and Welcome Wagon still does its job through the mail and the Internet.

Thomas Briggs' contributions to the city of Memphis have far exceeded the founding of Welcome Wagon, as philanthropy was just as important to him. Before his death in 1964, he established the Thomas W. Briggs Foundation, which has provided untold numbers of opportunities, including the Excellence in Teaching award at the University of Memphis and the Community Service Award that honors service excellence in Memphis. Mr. Briggs's generosity also made possible the opening of the Briggs Student Center at Rhodes College.