William Himrod facts for kids
William Himrod was an important person in Erie, Pennsylvania, known for his work in the iron industry. He was born on May 19, 1791, in Turbot Township, Pennsylvania, and passed away on June 21, 1873, in Erie. He is buried at Erie Cemetery.
Himrod was also a kind person who helped his community. He started a special school for African Americans and people in need, and he was involved in the Underground Railroad, which helped enslaved people find freedom.
Contents
William Himrod's Iron Business
William Himrod was a leader in the iron industry in Erie. He helped create companies that made iron products. These companies were very important for the city's growth.
Starting an Ironworks Company
Himrod became a partner in a company called Johnson, Himrod and Company. This company made iron products in Erie. Later, in 1841, the company changed its name to Vincent, Himrod, and Company when Himrod partnered with B. B. Vincent.
Erie's First Blast Furnace
In 1843, Himrod's company started the very first blast furnace in Erie County. A blast furnace is a huge oven that melts iron ore to make new iron. This was a big step for industry in the area.
The ironworks was located at Twelfth Street and French Street. It provided jobs for many people in Erie. They used iron ore found right there in the local area, which also helped other workers. Over the years, the company changed its name several times, including becoming the Erie City Iron Works.
Helping the Community
William Himrod lived in Erie for almost 50 years. He cared deeply about helping others, especially those who faced difficulties.
The Himrod Mission School
On December 22, 1839, Himrod started a Sunday School. This school was for African Americans and people who were very poor. It became known as the Himrod Mission.
He ran this school for nearly 20 years. This was a brave thing to do because it went against a law called the Fugitive Slave Act of 1793. This law made it harder for enslaved people to gain freedom.
Supporting the Underground Railroad
Himrod was also involved with the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network of safe houses and routes. It helped enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the North. Even after Himrod's death, the school he founded continued to operate under his name into the mid-1880s.
