I just finished Les Standiford’s “Meet You in Hell: Andrew Carnegie, Henry Clay Frick and the Bitter Partnership that Transformed America.” Great book, particularly in it’s detailed description of the Homestead strike. It was a defining moment in the relationship between the two men.
For several years, I’ve been toying with the plot for a novel that hinges on that strike. Haven’t really gotten much further than a lot of notes. Standiford’s book inspired me. The strike really is an incredible tale, especially when viewed through the lens of the Carnegie-Frick relationship. Each was a rags to riches story. Each amassed wealth that was unfathomable at the time. And raw greed drove each to hate the other with a passion.
To the end, Carnegie blamed Frick for Homestead, though he was clearly as much to blame as the pitbull he turned loose there. Lots of great details here, especially for anyone who has an interest in Pittsburgh history.
I particularly liked the excerpts from Hamlin Garland’s essay in McClure’s Magazine on the aftermath of Homestead. So much so that I Googled it and found a copy of the entire piece.
One reply on “Meet You in Hell”
i am about now 80% throught this book, which i picked up on your recommendation. i also grew up in the shadows of the homestead and braddock mills, have always had a great fascination with this subject. it is really interesting getting the info from this perspective, giving a curious insight into the robber barons frick and carnegie. thanks.