What is rumford chemical works?

Rumford Chemical Works was a chemical manufacturing company founded in Rumford, Rhode Island, USA in 1854. It was owned and operated by the Rhode Island businessman, Benjamin Franklin Thurber. The company produced a wide variety of chemicals, including potassium nitrate, sulfuric acid, and alum. Rumford Chemical Works was considered one of the largest chemical producers in the United States in the 19th century.

Thurber was known for being a pioneer in the chemical manufacturing industry, developing new processes and techniques to improve production efficiency and quality. He also introduced many innovative marketing strategies to promote the products of his company.

After Thurber's death in 1882, the company was sold to the American Agricultural Chemical Company, which continued to use the Rumford Chemical Works name until 1925. Today, the site of the original factory is a National Historic Landmark that serves as a reminder of the important role that Rumford Chemical Works played in the development of the chemical industry in the United States.