Lesson 2: The Industrial Engine
Duration of Days: 5
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to evaluate the causal relationship between the rise of the International Silver Company and the shift in Meriden’s social and economic class structure.
Why did Meriden become the "Silver City"? How did manufacturing change the town?
Industrial Revolution, Guilds, Mass Production, Patent.
ECO 9–12.1, HIST 9–12.2.
Analyzing the rise of the International Silver Company and Bradley & Hubbard. DOK Level: 2.
For students who struggle with dense text, provide physical artifacts (or 3D photos) of silver tools and finished products. Advanced learners analyze patent law documents from the 1800s to see how Meriden protected its "Silver" secrets.
Comparative T-chart: Meriden before vs. after the factory boom.