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Entry TypePerson
SurnameArkwright
ForenamesRichard
Pre TitleSir
Epithetknight, inventor and engineer
Dates1732-1792
Gender IdentityMale
BiographyInventor and leading entrepreneur during the early Industrial Revolution. Originally employed as a wigmaker, barber in Bolton Lancashire he invented a permanent dye for perukes. In late 1750s he became interested in inventions particularly carding and spinning of cotton. In 1769 he patented a spinning frame. By 1771 he had with Jedidiah Strutt and Samuel Need developed the worlds first water powered cotton spinning mill at Cromford. Inventor of the spinning frame, later renamed the water frame. Combined water power, machinery, semi-skilled labour and the new raw material cotton to create mass-produced yarn.

Creator of the modern factory system, especially in his mill at Cromford. Known as 'the Father of the Industrial Revolution'.
Key Events1732: Born Preston, Lancashire
1792: Died Rock House, Cromford
Authorised Form of NameArkwright; Sir; Richard (1732-1792); knight, inventor and engineer

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