Our Legacy
Paul Whittier, Pioneer in West Coast Flight
“We are dedicated to making a meaningful and lasting difference in all aspects of our clients’ wealth, family, and legacy.”
Whittier Trust’s story begins with a legacy of innovation, foresight and a commitment to excellence. Nearly a century ago, Max Whittier, a visionary in California real estate and petroleum, laid the foundation for what would become one of the first family offices in the United States.
Max Whittier
Max co-founded and developed Beverly Hills in the early 1900s and co-founded Belridge Oil in 1911, which became one of the most significant oil producers in the nation.
The Whittier Family
In 1935, Max’s children—Leland, Don, Helen, and Paul Whittier—established the Whittier family office to manage their growing assets and philanthropic endeavors. This family office would later evolve into Whittier Trust Company, marking its formal establishment as a California state-chartered trust company in 1989.
Sale of Belridge Oil
The family’s acumen reached a pinnacle in 1979 with the historic sale of Belridge Oil to the Shell Oil Company for $3.65 billion—then the largest corporate acquisition in history. This transaction would be the genesis of Whittier Trust, as the needs of the Whittier family would materially change with their new fortune. Since then, Whittier Trust’s reputation for navigating and managing extraordinary wealth with vision and expertise has been cemented in history.
The Oldest Multi-Family Office
Today, Whittier Trust is the oldest multi-family office headquartered on the West Coast.
Our Services
Our services have grown to encompass investment management, fiduciary services, family office solutions, philanthropic guidance, and real estate investments—all tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.
Our Focus
While our roots are steeped in pioneering wealth, our focus remains steadfast on creating enduring success and fostering legacies that span generations. At Whittier Trust, we continue to honor our heritage while evolving to meet the needs of the families, businesses, and communities we proudly serve.
Community and Client Impact
Through generations, Whittier Trust has extended its mission beyond wealth management, supporting philanthropic efforts and fostering positive community impact.