Wheelwright, William, 1798-1873
Dates
- Existence: 1798 - 1873
Biography
William Wheelwright (March 18, 1798 – September 26, 1873) was a businessman who played an essential role in the development of steamboat and train transportation in Chile and other parts of South America. In 1838, with help from the Chilean government, he founded the Pacific Steam Navigation Company which commenced operations on October 15, 1840 and provided commercial sea access to cities such as Valparaíso and El Callao.
Wheelwright also owned the Central Argentine Railway, a company established in 1863 that built and operated railway lines in the east-central region of Argentina.
Found in 1 Collection or Record:
Asa Dodge Smith letter
Five-page letter from Asa Dodge Smith in Hanover, New Hampshiren to William Wheelwright, suggesting that Wheelwright establish a professorship in honor of his son.