Jeptha Homer Wade B. August 11 1811 - D. August 9 1890. Industrialist, Philanthropist. Founder of Western Union Telegraph.

Born in New York state, Jeptha Wade was a Cleveland, Ohio industrialist who was responsible for the consolidation of most of the telegraph industry by forming Western Union in 1856 through a series of acquisitions and mergers.

Wade used his vast wealth to benefit his community of Cleveland, Ohio. In 1882, Wade donated 72 acres (291,000 m²) of land east of the city for purpose of creating a park, which was named Wade Park in his honor. Wade also was heavily involved with the formations and establishment of Hathaway Brown School , a private academy for young girls and women; he also co-founded the Case School of Applied Technology, now part of Case Western Reserve University. In addition, Wade served as the first President of the Board of Trustees for Lakeview Cemetery on Cleveland’s east side.

Wade married twice. He was the father of one son, Randall Wade, and four adopted children.