Abraham L. Pennock
Abraham Liddon Pennock (August 7, 1786 – May 12, 1868) was an American abolitionist, inventor, and businessman who was a prominent voice in the free produce movement and served as vice president of the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society. A Pennsylvania state historical marker was dedicated in Pennock's honor in Upper Darby Township on October 24, 1985. Life and business Pennock was born in Philadelphia on August 7, 1786, to George and Mary Liddon Pennock. He inherited a gristmill and other wealth from family members and participated in various business enterprises, investing in dry goods and co-owning the Philadelphia Hose Company, which manufactured riveted leather hose. Invented by Pennock and James Sellers and first used at Pennock's mill, this hose remained in widespread use until the development of rubber hose. The company also constructed fire engines. Such was the strength of the hose that the US government hired the firm to manufacture all mail bags used in its service. In 1840, he retired from business and moved to Haverford Township and then to Upper Darby Township in 1845. In 1829, Pennock was the lead plaintiff in Pennock v. Dialogue, in which the Supreme Court of the United States voided his patent on