Arkwright, Sir Richard, born in 1732. A Lancashire barber, renowned as the inventor of the spinning frame. Of humble birth, he exhibited considerable mechanical skill, joined with the greatest industry. In 1767 he attempted to solve the problem of perpetual motion and, soon after, with the help of a clock maker named Kay, his spinning inventions began to take shape. He then entered into partnership with a firm of stocking manufacturers, and his invention was patented in 1769. Though many difficulties arose, from infringements of the patent, the hostility of the work-people, and disputes to his claim as the inventor of his machines, Arkwright was enabled to rise from poverty, and was chosen to present a congratulatory address to George III in 1786, on which occasion he was knighted. Died, 1792.

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