The Lads of Snowdenhill and the New Jersey Steel Trade

Abstract

Utilising a collection of family letters, the article looks at the role of English immigrants in the emergence of the American special steel industry, c1850-1914. Specifically, it chronicles the careers of the Illingworth brothers - particularly Benjamin and John - and their role in the foundation of the New Jersey steel trade. The activities of the Illingworths at pioneering firms, such as the Jersey City Steel Works and Atha & Illingworth, demonstrate the dependence of the US special steel industry on English expertise. The remarkable upward social and economic mobility of the Illingworths is also highlighted.