Momentum in Motion
The 1950s were a decade of postwar optimism and ambitious growth. Hylant-MacLean, Inc. was booming, expanding its services and bringing new employees into the fold. With John T. “Jock” MacLean’s retirement, Robert E. Hylant stepped into the role of Chairman and CEO, ushering in a new chapter of strategic leadership.
This era saw a renewed focus on commercial insurance services and professional development—laying the groundwork for long-term growth and reinforcing Hylant’s commitment to trusted partnerships.
Hylant's current headquarters building, 811 Madison Avenue, was constructed in the 1950s, originally home to Libbey-Owens-Ford, and known as the LOF Building.
Spotlight:
Moments That Mattered
Key Milestones at Hylant:
- John T. “Jock” MacLean retired from the company.
- Robert E. Hylant was named Chairman and CEO.
- Hylant expanded its commercial insurance offerings.
Toledo in the 1950s:
- The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority was established in 1955, boosting the city’s economic influence.
- The Toledo Opera was founded in 1959, enhancing the cultural fabric of the region.
- Libbey-Owens-Ford (LOF Building: the current headquarters of Hylant) was constructed.
Photos and Mementos from the 1950s
Third-generation Hylant siblings in the late 1950s. Robert E. Hylant with Patrick on his shoulders.
Jeanne (far left) and Robert E. Hylant (far right) with friends. Patrick, Robert and Dan Hylant with their Aunt Cindy and the family pet.
What Was Happening
In Insurance
- Antitrust and Monopoly Subcommittee Investigations: In 1958, Congress investigated the effectiveness of state-by-state insurance regulation, leading to changes in model rating laws to increase market competition.
- Multi-Line Policies: The Insurance Company of North America (INA) created one of the first homeowner’s policies in 1950, which covered multiple risks such as fire, theft, and liability under a single policy. This innovation simplified risk management for consumers and insurers alike.
- The 1950s saw the beginning of more sophisticated claims processing systems. The focus was on improving efficiency and accuracy in handling claims.
- Introduction of Health Insurance: Employer-sponsored health insurance became more common, spurred by tax incentives and the need to attract workers during a period of economic growth.
Around the World
- Television: Became a central part of American life, with shows like "I Love Lucy" and "The Ed Sullivan Show."
- Rock 'n' Roll: Elvis Presley popularized rock 'n' roll music.
- Brown v. Board of Education: The 1954 Supreme Court decision declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.
- Disneyland: Opened in 1955 in Anaheim, California.
- Polio Vaccine: Developed by Jonas Salk and widely distributed in 1955.
- Interstate Highway System: Initiated by President Eisenhower in 1956.
- Sputnik: The Soviet Union launched the first artificial satellite in 1957, sparking the space race.
- Credit Cards: The first general-purpose credit card, the Diners Club card, was introduced in 1950.
Continue the Journey
Continue the journey and explore Hylant's evolution into the 1960s and beyond.