Robert Gair
Robert Gair was a printer and paper mag maker who invented the folding carton in 1890.
Born in Brooklyn, Gair invented the paperboard folding carton by accident when a metal ruler used to crease bags shifted position and cut the bag. Gair found that by cutting and creasing paperboard in one operation, he could make prefabricated cartons. He ultimately entered the corrugated fiberboard shipping container business in the 1900s. His idea was developed and utilized by E. S. & A. Robinson with whom he had long-term business dealings.
Gair founded a paper empire and occupied several buildings in the area, many of which still bear his name.
