James Hargreaves: The Inventor of the Spinning Jenny

The Birth and Baptism of James Hargreaves

Jun 1, 1720

James Hargreaves was born Jun 1st 1720. He was baptised on January 8th in the next year. He was born in Knuzden Brook, Lancashire, England. His family was destitute of money and he did not receive a formal education. He had not learned how to read and write.

Marriage

Sep 10, 1740

At the age of 20, James Hargreaves got married. His spouse was named Elizabeth Grimshaw and together they had 27 children. They had gotten married in Church Kirk and were almost of the same age.

James Hargreaves Invents the Spinning Jenny

Jan 1, 1764

James Hargreaves invented the spinning jenny in 1764. The spinning jenny was a machine in which multiple threads of cotton could be woven together with an wheel and a spindle. Because the textile industry as poor in England at the time, this invention had helped greatly. (The specific date of the invention is unclear.)

James Hargreaves Moves to Nottingham

Jan 1, 1768

James Hargreave was forced to move to Nottingham, England. This was due to the fact that his spinning jennies had not been welcomed any more in Stanhill when yarn had become overpriced. When he moved to Nottingham he was a big success because the yarn prices were suitable and the machinery helped in manufacturing.

James Hargreaves Recieves a Patent

Jun 12, 1770

James Hargreaves recieved a patent on his invention in 1770. Many manufacturers were producing and using his machinery and James could of taken action. The oatent had enabled him to take action against the manufacuturers, but unfortunately, the action was withdrawn.

The Death of James Hargreaves

Apr 22, 1778

James Hargreaves passed away on April 22nd, 1778. He had been living his life quietly near a mill he had started with his partner, Thomas James. He had lived until the age of fifty five. Then his wife had to live alone after his death.