Book Review

Cherry, Jason A. William Trent – Factor of Ambition. Mechanicsburg, PA: Sunbury Press, Inc., 2024.

William Trent’s story, a stark departure from the typical narratives of wealthy elites during the Revolutionary Era, offers a unique perspective on this pivotal period in early American history. Unlike his contemporaries, Trent was a backcountry, not a port city merchant; he pursued commerce, not war with Native Nations, and endured many hardships, not a life of ease and luxury.  Independent Historian Jason A. Cherry masterfully recounts a remarkable life spent developing business relationships on the western frontier with Native Americans and English settlers, shedding new light on the economic and social dynamics of the time.

Born into the most prominent family in Trenton, New Jersey, William started life with many financial and social advantages. While he followed his father into the merchant business, William conducted a trading business in the Ohio country, modern-day western Pennsylvania, and West Virginia rather than in the port cities of Philadelphia and Trenton. The Native Americans eagerly sought manufactured goods, including guns, ammunition, metal products, and clothing. In exchange, Trent received animal skins and furs, most of which were transported to Britain and Europe. It was a lucrative trade for both parties.

However, starting in the 1740s, three colonial wars damaged and later destroyed his businesses, accumulating large debts. Trent attempted to regain solvency by transitioning to large-scale land speculation and sales. He invested and participated in managing two large investor land consortiums, the Ohio Company and the Indiana Company. In 1769, Trent sailed to London to obtain Royal charters, securing the rights to vast tracts of land in the Ohio Valley. Doggedly, he pursued Crown approval in the British capital for six years, only giving up due to the outbreak of the American Revolution.

Returning to Trenton, William purchased a riverfront farm and Delaware River ferry and, after an uncertain period, signed a loyalty oath to the Patriot cause. However, William’s eyesight had deteriorated by this time, and other physical ailments had kept him from serving in the military. Wartime ravishing further deteriorated Trent’s farm and financial condition. He passed in 1784 with few assets and many debts. His commercial successes could not withstand the damages of four wars and the change in governments.

Cherry’s narrative is not just about Trent; it’s a tapestry of interactions between Trent and well-known founders, offering a fresh perspective on their lives and contributions. For instance, Trent once used George Washington as a courier, a testament to the close ties between these historical figures. He also co-invested with Benjamin Franklin, showcasing the diverse interests and entrepreneurial spirit of these early American leaders. Readers will find this unique perspective on commercial activities in the backcountry, aided by meticulous research and attractive photos, most of which the author provides, a valuable addition to their understanding of Revolutionary Era history.