Samuel Bancroft

Biography

Samuel Bancroft, born in 1840, built a reputation as a successful textile manufacturer whose enterprises brought employment and stability to Delaware. He paired business acumen with a generous spirit, supporting workers and investing in improvements that respected their labor.

His philanthropy extended to the arts and education, endowing institutions that continue to enrich the cultural life of his adopted region. His thoughtful giving served as a model for how industry can intertwine with compassion.