The creation of the United States parallels the development of the American iron industry, exemplified by the fact that seven signers of the Declaration of Independence were ironmasters.  Although Britain attempted to stem the colonies’ iron production, by the Revolution, the colonies were one of the world’s largest iron producers.  The iron sites supplied products for the war for independence and the ironmasters were actively involved in politics.  The iron industry was central in the fight for American independence.

By 1789, Hopewell Furnace was the second-largest of 14 furnaces in Pennsylvania. It could make 700 tons of iron each year. But it still wasn't making a profit. In 1794, James Wilson bought the furnace, but he also had to sell it in 1796 and left to avoid his own debts. (https://kids.kiddle.co/Hopewell_Furnace_National_Historic_Site) 

He served as an Associated Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1789 through 1798. 

Image: Official portrait of Supreme Court Justice James Wilson

Iron and Steel Hall of Fame Induction - 2018