Cornelius Vanderbilt's Marriage to Frank Armstrong Crawford

Name: Cornelius Vanderbilt's Marriage to Frank Armstrong Crawford
Start: 1794-08-21
Location: Unspecified

A Major Commercial Tycoon Ties the Knot

Cornelius Vanderbilt, a key figure in America’s transportation industry, took a significant personal step when he married his second wife, Frank Armstrong Crawford, in 1869. This historic marriage took place in London, Ontario, embodying both a personal union and a strategic alliance within the networking of influential families. Vanderbilt, often remembered for his extensive contributions to the world of railroads and shipping, was not just a titan in business but also made a significant choice in his personal life.

Cornelius Vanderbilt and His Entrepreneurial Legacy

Cornelius Vanderbilt, born in 1794, made a name for himself in the shipping and railroad industries, amassing a fortune that placed him among America's richest men of his time. His first fortune was made in shipping, but he later expanded his empire into railroads, ultimately controlling the vital New York Central Railroad. This success allowed him to travel internationally and, ultimately, to London where he solidified his personal and familial ties through marriage.

Exploring the Life of Frank Armstrong Crawford

Frank Armstrong Crawford, a cousin of Vanderbilt, was born into a family that held connections to industry and commerce, providing an intriguing backdrop for their marriage. As a figure who closely interacted with Vanderbilt's business pursuits, Crawford played a pivotal role behind the scenes, assisting in navigating family and business relations during a transformative period in American history.

A Love Story Amidst Business Success

While Cornelius Vanderbilt's business ventures were blending into familial responsibilities, his marriage to Frank Armstrong Crawford represented a profound union that would intertwine their legacies. Their partnership not only solidified personal ties but also enhanced the social fabric of wealthy industrial families.

The Importance of Family Ties in Vanderbilt's Life

The marriage honored a longstanding tradition within the Vanderbilt family of marrying close relatives. This practice was common among wealthy families, where maintaining influence and power through marital alliances was critical. Vanderbilt’s choice of cousin Frank Crawford was strategic, further cementing familial ties that would serve business and personal interests.

Cultural and Social Impact of Vanderbilt’s Second Marriage

Vanderbilt's marriage was not just a personal affair; it echoed the larger societal moves where families leveraged relationships to bolster their standing. The union would bring about social visibility to the couple, further anchoring their positions within elite circles of society.

Fun Fact

Cornelius Vanderbilt's Marital Ventures

Interestingly, Cornelius Vanderbilt was married twice, first to Mary P. Montgomery, with whom he had 13 children. His second marriage to Frank Armstrong Crawford reflected both personal choice and familial strategy.