Asa Packer was an American businessman and philanthropist born on December 2, 1804, in Massachusetts. He is best known for founding the Lehigh Valley Railroad in Pennsylvania, which played a significant role in the region's economic development during the 19th century. Packer's success in the coal and transportation industries made him one of the wealthiest men of his time. In addition to his business ventures, Asa Packer was a generous supporter of education and the arts. He donated substantial funds to establish Lehigh University in 1865, which aimed to provide higher education in engineering and the sciences. Packer's legacy continues to influence the community and the university today.