American Phoenix: The Remarkable Story of William Skinner, a Man Who Turned Disaster Into Destiny

by Sarah S. Kilborne

Book Overview

The incredible story of millionaire manufacturer William Skinner, a leading founder of the American silk industry, who lost everything in a devastating flood only to stage "one of the greatest comebacks in the annals of American industry" ( Boston Sunday Post) . In 1845, a young, penniless William Skinner sailed in steerage class on a boat that took him from the slums of London to the United States. Skilled in the rare art of dyeing, he acquired work...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1451671806
• ISBN13: 9781451671803
• Release Date: September 2014
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster
• Length: 448 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 5.4" x 8.3"

Customer Reviews

An amazing story of a man who turned tragedy into triumph. Historically accurate, meticulously resea

This is a great book about a great man who came from the slums of England. In 1845, at the age of 20 years old he sailed to America, by himself. He worked hard, became very successful until the worst disaster in American history, at that time, swept though 4 New England towns leaving 800 homeless and killing 139 people. Mr. Skinner lost nearly everything, but through his perseverance, he rebuilt his life, for a second time. "...William Skinner, the most influential Englishman to land in America knowing only one skill, how to dye silk, and ultimately clothed millions of Americans", Reader's Digest. Some of those that he clothed were Joan Crawford and Greta Garbo. This is an unforgettable and compelling book that you will have trouble putting down.