Isaac Jenks facts for kids

Isaac Jenks (born March 17, 1816 – died January 29, 1888) was an important English businessman. He was known as an ironmaster, which means he owned and managed ironworks. Isaac Jenks also served as the Mayor of Wolverhampton from 1872 to 1873. He was a very generous person and supported many good causes, especially those connected to his church, the Wesleyan Methodist faith.

Building an Iron Empire

Isaac Jenks started working at a very young age. When he was just 12, he became an apprentice at an ironworks. This company was founded by George Benjamin Thorneycroft, who later became the first Mayor of Wolverhampton. Isaac spent 20 years learning all about the iron and steel industry. He understood how important it was to make high-quality products.

Founding Minerva and Beaver Works

In 1857, Isaac Jenks decided to start his own business. He opened the Minerva Iron and Steel Works. Soon after, he opened another factory called the Beaver Works. These factories grew very quickly.

Supplying the World

Within about ten years, Jenks's two factories were huge. They supplied about 80 percent of all the steel that the United States imported from the United Kingdom. His factories were perfectly located on the Birmingham Canal Navigations. This network of canals helped him easily send his products all over the world. His famous brands included "Jenks" steel and "Beaver" iron. These products were advertised for sale to other businesses. He even had agents in big cities like London and New York.

After 1902, not much is known about the company. By 1908, the factories were taken down. The land was then used for coal wharves, which are places where coal is loaded and unloaded from boats.

Isaac Jenks's Life and Legacy

Isaac Jenks was born in Sedgley, Staffordshire, in 1816. He was a dedicated Wesleyan Methodist. This meant he followed a certain branch of the Christian faith. He was also a very kind and generous person. He gave money and support to many projects. He especially helped his church and schools that taught technical skills.

Family and Public Service

In 1839, Isaac married Rebecca Jones from Dawley, Shropshire. As he became more successful, he moved his family to bigger and nicer homes. His last home was Morley House, located north of Wolverhampton. Today, that area is a housing estate.

Isaac Jenks was elected Mayor of Wolverhampton for the years 1872 to 1873. During his time as mayor, he made a special gift to the town. He donated the gold chain and badge that the mayor still wears today. Isaac Jenks passed away in Rhyl, Flintshire, Wales, on January 29, 1888.