Bancroft & Sons Company

Joseph Bancroft was an English Quaker. In 1831, he found a textile mill on the banks of the Brandywine River in Rockford, Delaware. By applying his ethical beliefs–backed by his Quaker faith and paternalistic nature–his pursuit of technological innovation, and experience in the industry Bancroft was able to become a successful innovator in the industry.

The company grew in the 30's and 40's, reaching markets in Philadelphia and New York. He did well during the Civil War since English products were banned. After the war he started to expand into new bleaching and finishing processes. He also introduced his two sons, William and Samuel into the business. By 1889 the company became incorporated.

Bancroft's company continued to grow well into the 19th century. He bought out two neighboring mills by 1925 and had gave each mill a specialization. His original mill focused on bleaching, dyeing and finishing. The Kentmere mill did all of the manufacturing, and the Eddystone Manufacturing Company printed the cotton and linen. A Rayon finishing plant was installed later.

In 1936, Bancroft & Sons established a research and development department. Everglaze was their first product. It was a durable finish on glazed chintz, which was later used to create permanent press fabrics. From then on, the company began focusing more on licensing patents and trademarks both for themselves and others.

Their next big product was Ban-lon. A process for crimping yarn, whose rights were bought from Alexander Smith Inc., became popular in outerwear, swimsuits, sweaters, and hose.

Due to the decrease in demand within the textile industry, by 1960 Bancroft & Sons only viable section of their company was their research and development. The company was considering selling off the manufacturing side of their business at a tax loss but when even that was no longer an option they sold the whole company to Indian Head Mills, Inc. in 1961.