|
|
Article: Making rubber work - Part 2 of 2; The story of Charles Goodyear's life-long obsession.(special report on Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co.)
- Article from:
- Rubber & Plastics News
- Article date:
- March 20, 2006
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2006 Crain Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
|
Byline: Chuck Slaybaugh
However, because of publicity accorded his acid gas process, Goodyear had no trouble in obtaining a partner. William Ballard, a New York City businessman, supplied the capital. And in a short time, the firm of Goodyear and Ballard began manufacturing operations on Staten Island. But once again, Goodyear's hopes were merely a prelude to misfortune.
The financial panic of 1836 bankrupted Ballard and the factory had to be closed. Goodyear was left so penniless he had to pawn his umbrella to ride the ferry from Staten Island back to New York.
Goodyear's family now joined him in New York and the struggle for a bare existence ...