Rash's Surname Index
Notes for Willard Allen SPEAKMAN
Willard Allen Speakman, born Coatesville, Pa. April 5, 1864, died June 24, 1936. Educated at Friends School in Wilmington, the Wilmington High School, and the Polytechnic College of the State of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Joined his father's firm of Speakman Bros., plumbing contractors. The firm prospered; moved to larger quarters, and in the late 1890's, the firm of Speakman Supply and Pipe Co., entered the manufacturing field, having for a decade served plumbers in the vicinity as a jobber of plumbing supplies. In 1906, the firm moved to larger quarters where they began extensive manufacturing of brass plumbing fixtures. The plumbers supply store continued in business until 1917, when it also moved to larger quarters. Through his industry, foresight, courage and ability, Mr. Speakman built the Speakman Company to a concern of outstanding position in its field.In addition, Mr. Speakman contributed a great deal to Civic affairs in Wilmington and Delaware. He was responsible for the passage of the Delaware Workmen's Compensation Act some years ago. In 1916, he was appointed a member the Wilmington Board of Harbor Commissioners and in 1917 was elected President of the Board and served in that capacity until his death. The Delaware Waterfront Commission was created under his guidance to care for the State's water frontage and to protect its interest. He served as chairman of this Commission from its inception. He was appointed the sole Republican member of the first W.P.A. Commission for the State of Delaware by President Roosevelt to expand building in 1933 when the country was in the depths of the depression. He served as a member of the Board of Directors of the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association and also the American Association of Port Authorities.
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