From Shoe Shine Boy to Montana's Largest Copper Mine Owner
Entrepreneur Dennis Washington's incredible story
From machinery operator to multi-billionaire, Dennis Washington’s journey epitomizes extraordinary success.
In '91, Washington transformed a sex cult scandal-ridden 64k acre Oregon ranch into a haven for kids, turning foreclosure into a chance for children to experience the "best week of their lives."
Last year, he acquired a super yacht from one of the only oligarch’s to evade sanctions.
But, Washington’s biggest score resides in a Montana copper mine. Named the "Richest Hill on Earth," Butte's legacy was tarnished by environmental issues after operating from 1864 to 1983.
Washington bid $15M for Butte in ’85 with highway construction earnings, restarting the mine in '86. Profits surged to $100M in 3 years as copper's value rebounded.
'89 saw Asarco invest $125M for 49.9% of Butte. In just 4 years, a $15M bet became $225M and control of a major mine.
Butte shuttered in 2000, and Asarco’s stake reverted back to Washington. Yet this setback fuelled a triumphant resurgence. The mine has thrived since 2003, a major taxpayer. Butte is expected to run at least another 30 years, owned solely by one visionary.
Dennis Washington's rags-to-riches tale resonates. Growing up in government housing, he hustled as a shoe shine boy alongside Quincy Jones, the iconic musician.
Married to Phyllis, a former beauty queen, she supported Washington’s dreams through teaching. Their journey started without even an indoor bathroom.
Washington's triumph isn't just about wealth; it's rooted in love for machinery and sheer determination. His empire, The Washington Group, spans rail, shipping, aviation, and more.
Key to success? "Even if I partied hard, I still woke up for work at 4 a.m. You're not going to make it working eight hours a day." This discipline fuelled his rise from humble beginnings to titan status.
Great read tommy !! The harder you work the luckier you become 🚀 . “The early BIRD 🦅 catches the worm🐛”