Rowan, Archibald Hamilton, 1751-1834

Epithet: United Irishman'

British Library Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue : Person : Description : ark:/81055/vdc_100000000161.0x000281

Archibald Hamilton Rowan was a calico-printer on the Brandywine River, near Wilmington, De. A member of the Society of United Irishmen, he was in exile from Ireland during his stay in America. After peddling birch beer and garden produce through the streets of Wilmington, he purchased a calico-printing firm from the Jordan family in late 1796 or early 1797. After purchasing the printworks, Rowan made an agreement with a dyer, William Aldred, who undertook the management of the shop and men and was in charge of the firm's accounts. Aldred proved to be an unsatisifactory businessman and the partnership was dissolved in October, 1798. Rowan continued the business until May 29, 1799. Being unable to compete with British merchants, he sold the his remaining inventory to James Lea and offered the manufactory for sale. Ultimately, he returned to Ireland.

From the description of Sample book of designs for printed cotton, [ca. 1795-ca. 1799]. (Winterthur Library). WorldCat record id: 122394296