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William Chandler (businessman) facts for kids

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William Chandler was an important businessman in the 1800s who lived in Wilmington, Delaware. He was also a strong supporter of ending slavery, known as an abolitionist, and helped lead early railroad companies.

William Chandler: A Life of Action

William Chandler was a very busy person who helped shape his community in many ways. He was involved in local government, started new businesses, fought for what he believed was right, and even helped build the first railroads connecting major cities.

Early Business Ventures

Chandler began his public service in 1818, when he joined the Wilmington City Council. This was like being part of the local government that made decisions for the city.

In 1825, he helped create the Delaware Fire Insurance Company. This company helped people protect their homes and businesses from fire.

He also joined many other business projects. In 1829, he became a director at the Farmers' Bank of Delaware. Later, in 1833, he joined the Wilmington Whaling Company as a director.

Fighting for Freedom

William Chandler worked closely with Thomas Garrett, another important Wilmington merchant. Garrett was famous for being a "stationmaster" on the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom.

In 1827, an important group called the Abolition Society of the State of Delaware was reformed. Chandler was a key leader in this group, along with Thomas Garrett. They worked to end slavery in the United States.

Building New Industries

Chandler and Garrett were also involved in new industries. In 1835, they both became directors of the new Wilmington Gas Company. This company made gas from a material called rosin to light lamps in the city.

In 1836, Chandler and Garrett invested with Joseph Whitaker and his brothers. They helped restart the Principio Furnace in Perryville, Maryland, which was a place where metal was made.

In 1837, Chandler helped start the First Board of Trade of Wilmington and became its first vice-president. This group helped promote business and trade in the city.

Connecting Cities with Railroads

One of Chandler's most important roles was in building railroads. In 1838, he was a director for three of the four companies that built the very first rail line from Philadelphia to Baltimore. These companies were the Wilmington and Susquehanna Railroad, the Delaware and Maryland Railroad, and the Philadelphia, Wilmington, and Baltimore Railroad.

This railroad line is still used today as part of Amtrak's Northeast Corridor. Chandler's work as a railroad leader is even mentioned on the Newkirk Viaduct Monument from 1839.

From 1840 to 1843, Chandler also served as a director for the Union Bank of Delaware.

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