Gilded Greats logoGilded Greats

Historical article

Henry Flagler’s two favorites

Henry is quoted near his death as saying two of his favorites on the earth were his wife Mary Lily and his dog Delos.

November 12, 2026

By Don C. Schueler1 min read

Henry Flagler is quoted near his death as saying two of his favorites on the earth were his wife Mary Lily and his dog Delos. Henry had lost most of his eyesight and hearing later in life, so it must have been comforting to have an understanding wife and a dog that offered unconditional love.

Henry M. Flagler

Henry M. Flagler

Click to see how they were all related! Henry Morrison Flagler (January 2, 1830 – May 20, 1913) was an American industrialist and a founder of Standard Oil, which was first based in Ohio.

Mary Lily Kenan Flagler: Heiress to the Flagler Fortune

Photos courtesy of Flagler College Archives.