The Forgotten Iron King of the Great Lakes
Schedule
Wed Jul 22 2026 at 06:30 pm to 07:30 pm
UTC-04:00Location
260 Dyckman Ave, South Haven, MI, United States, Michigan 49090 | South Haven, MI
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Eber Brock Ward (1811–1875) began his career as a cabin boy on his uncle's sailing vessels, but when he died in 1875, he was the wealthiest man in Michigan. Decades before moguls such as Andrew Carnegie and John D. Rockefeller, Ward was already vertically integrating his operations into an empire. And yet, despite his countless successes, Ward's life was filled with ruthless competition, labor conflict, familial dispute, and scandal. Join us as we uncover this forgotten but fascinating figure of Michigan history with Michael Nagle, historian and author of The Forgotten Iron King of the Great Lakes.Tickets are free for Museum members and $10 for non-members. A virtual lecture pass is also available. Doors open at 6 PM. You can purchase tickets for this event online, over the phone, or in-person.
This lecture series is made possible thanks to the Nielsen-Wells Grant Fund and Mike & Susan Smith.
About Our Presenters:
Michael W. Nagle holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in education and a Master of Arts degree in history from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington. He teaches history and political science at West Shore Community College in Scottville, Michigan. Nagle is an award-winning teacher and noted speaker covering a range of topics in American history, Michigan history, and student success and retention in the online classroom. He is the author of two books; both were published by Wayne State University Press. His most recent work, The Forgotten Iron King of the Great Lakes: Eber Brock Ward, 1811-1875, won the Historical Society of Michigan Award. His first book, Justus S. Stearns: Michigan Pine King and Kentucky Coal Baron, 1845-1933, received the Kentucky History Award. Nagle lives in Ludington, Michigan.
Tickets and Virtual Lecture Pass available:
https://michiganmaritimemuseum.org/event/mmm-lecture-series-the-forgotten-iron-king-of-the-great-lakes/
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Where is it happening?
260 Dyckman Ave, South Haven, MI, United States, Michigan 49090Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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