Anna Bissell's Enduring Impact: Celebrating a Legacy of Service

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., March 14, 2025 – March is Women's History Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the contributions and achievements of women throughout history. From trailblazing pioneers who shattered glass ceilings, to everyday heroes who inspire change in our communities, Women's History Month honors the diverse and powerful impact of women around the world. Today, we explore one of the most important stories in the history of BISSELL® Homecare, Inc., the life of Anna Bissell and the lasting influence of her legacy, rooted in service. 

Anna Sutherland Bissell was born in River John, Nova Scotia, in December 1846 as the youngest of five children.  In 1850, her parents moved to De Pere, Wisconsin, where she finished school at age 16 and became a teacher.  She married Melville R. Bissell Sr. at age 19 (1865) and they moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, where they lived for about three years before moving to Grand Rapids, Michigan to operate a crockery shop. It was at this crockery shop, Bissell & Sons, that the idea for the BISSELL carpet sweeper was born. 

The story of Anna’s legacy began when she took over the Company when her husband, M.R. Bissell passed away from pneumonia in 1889. A mother of five, Anna was thrust into the corporate world – one dominated by men at the time. Anna’s perseverance, intelligence, and fortitude enabled her to grow the Company into the thriving business it is today.  

While being one of America’s first female CEOs is certainly a pillar of Anna’s story, her philanthropic work is surely another. Anna was a generous community advocate. She was the first female trustee of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and was actively involved in Bissell House, a recreation and training program for Grand Rapids youth and immigrant women. She also served on the board of what was to become D.A. Blodgett Home for Children. 

Anna was a charter member of the Ladies Literary Club, a life member of the Women's City Club and an active member of United Way. She served on the board of The Clark Memorial Home and was for years the sole woman member of the National Hardware Men's Association. 

Anna passed away on November 8,1934, at the age of 87. At the time of Anna’s death, newspaper reports called her “a business executive without peer, a respected and beloved philanthropist, and a true matriarch in her family.” Her tribute was hard earned by a lifetime of dedicated work (Womenlines, 2022).  

Anna’s legacy continues to play an integral role at BISSELL today. Most notably, its Core Values and nearly 100-year partnership with United Way. Its culture and Core Values are a reflection of Anna’s deep appreciation for the people who propel the organization forward, and the Company’s continued partnership with United Way is a way to honor Anna’s commitment to investing in programs that improve lives and build a stronger community.