James A. Haslam II

Founder, Pilot Corporation

James Arthur Haslam II was born in 1930 in Detroit, the son of an army officer. He attended the University of Tennessee where he played football under legendary coach Robert Neyland.  Halsam was on the team that won the national championship in 1951 and became the team captain in 1952.

Haslam began Pilot Corporation with one gas station in Gate City, Virginia. The company now comprises 67 convenience stores and 140 travel centers across the nation and has been ranked 99th on the Forbes 500 list of the largest privately held companies.

Haslam and his wife, Natalie, are leaders in the civic life of the community. Their vision and involvement have empowered a multitude of agencies and organizations including the East Tennessee Historical Society.

James A. Haslam II was named a Pillar of Support by his wife, Natalie – long-time board member, leader and active supporter of ETHS.