Memorial Hall Library

Robert Morris's folly, the architectural and financial failures of an American founder, Ryan K. Smith

eng

Includes bibliographical references (pages 213-335) and index

individual biography

mapsillustrations

index present

non fiction

Robert Morris's folly

bibliography

862098358

Ryan K. Smith

the architectural and financial failures of an American founder

"In 1798 Robert Morris-"financier of the American Revolution, " confidant of George Washington, former U.S. senator-plunged from the peaks of wealth and prestige into debtors' prison and public contempt. How could one of the richest men in the United States, one of only two Founders who signed the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution, suffer such a downfall? This book examines for the first time the fabulously extravagant Philadelphia townhouse Robert Morris built and its role in bringing about his ruin. Part biography, part architectural history, the book recounts Morris's wild successes as a merchant, his recklessness as a land speculator, and his unrestrained passion in building his palatial, doomed mansion, once hailed as the grandest and most expensive private building in the United States but later known as "Morris's Folly." Setting Morris's tale in the context of the nation's founding, this volume refocuses attention on an essential yet nearly forgotten American figure while also illuminating the origins of America's ongoing, ambivalent attitudes toward the superwealthy and their sensational excesses"--, Provided by publisher

His capital -- His family -- His family -- His plans -- His house -- His architect -- His folly -- His entreaties -- His ruins -- His release