Du Pont and the American Civil War

Date Posted: Friday, May 25th, 2018

On Saturday, June 2, 10:30 a.m., Lucas R. Clawson will present a program at the Delaware Public Archives about the Du Pont Company and its role during the American Civil War. Du Pont was the nation’s most prominent black powder manufacturer on the eve of the conflict between the North and the South. When fighting broke out in 1861, the Federal Government called on the company to make black powder for the Army and Navy as well as provide some of the necessary raw ingredients for other manufacturers. Du Pont, however, was not assured high profits or prestige during the war despite the large government orders. Unstable economic conditions, Delaware’s political situation, and the uncertainties of war made it difficult for Du Pont to do business.

Lucas R. Clawson is a Historian/Reference Archivist with Hagley Museum and Library in Wilmington, Delaware. Clawson helps provide access to the Du Pont Company’s historical records while also researching and writing about the Company’s history, particularly during the Civil War era.

The program is free to the public and will last approximately one hour. No reservations are required. For more information, contact Tom Summers (302) 744-5047 or e-mail thomas.summers@delaware.gov.