Robert Morris's folly : the architectural and financial failures of an American founder

Robert Morris's folly : the architectural and financial failures of an American founder

New Haven : Yale University Press, 2014.

346 p. : ill., map, ports. ; 25 cm.

923.373 M877smi 2014 MB

(OCoLC)862098358

In 1798 Robert Morris, "financier of the American Revolution," confidant of George Washington, plunged from the peaks of wealth and prestige into debtors' prison and public contempt. How could one of the richest men in the United States, one of only two Founders who signed the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the Constitution, suffer such a downfall? This book examines the extravagant Philadelphia townhouse Robert Morris built and its role in bringing about his ruin. Part biography, part architectural history, the book recounts Morris's wild successes as a merchant, his recklessness as a land speculator, and his unrestrained passion in building his palatial, doomed mansion, once hailed as the grandest and most expensive private building in the United States but later known as "Morris's Folly"--Provided by publisher.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 231-335) and index.
Contents: His capital -- His family -- His family -- His plans -- His house -- His architect -- His folly -- His entreaties -- His ruins -- His release.
L2014M143

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