The Tyson family name is associated with Tyson Foods, founded by John W. Tyson in Arkansas in 1935.
John W. Tyson began by hauling chickens and other agricultural products during the Great Depression. The business expanded from transport into poultry production and processing, eventually becoming one of the world’s largest food companies.
Tyson Foods was incorporated in 1935 and became publicly traded in 1963. John H. Tyson, the founder’s grandson, later became chairman, continuing the family’s leadership connection with the company.
Tyson Foods is often confused with individual poultry brands such as Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, and Ball Park, which it acquired through later expansions. The Tyson name identifies the parent company, not just one chicken product line.