Thomas Watson (silk spinner) facts for kids

Thomas Watson (born 1821, died 1887) was an important English businessman and politician. He started his career working with silk. He became a successful inventor and built his own company. Thomas Watson also worked hard to help his local community. Later in his life, he became a Member of Parliament, serving in the British government.

Thomas Watson: A Life of Innovation

Thomas Watson began his working life as a silk spinner. This meant he helped make silk threads. In 1846, he teamed up with two friends. Together, they started a new business in Rochdale. Their company made silk and hats.

From Silk Spinner to Inventor

Thomas Watson was very clever and inventive. He created a special new material called silk-plush. This material was perfect for making hats. His invention was a big success! Because of this, he became the only owner of his company. It was called Thomas Watson & Sons. They were famous for making silk-plush in Rochdale.

Helping His Community

Thomas Watson cared a lot about the people in his town. He used his success to help Rochdale. He paid for a new hospital, called an infirmary, for the town. He also became the chairman of the Rochdale School Board. This meant he helped make important decisions about schools. He was also the treasurer for a church group called the Free Church Denomination. On top of that, he was a J.P. for Rochdale. A J.P. is a person who helps keep law and order in the community.

A Politician for Ilkeston

In 1885, Thomas Watson decided to enter politics. He ran in the general election that year. He was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for a place called Ilkeston. An MP is someone who represents their local area in the British Parliament. They help make laws and decisions for the country.

He won his seat again in the next election in 1886. Sadly, Thomas Watson passed away in 1887. He was 66 years old.