Daniel A. Tompkins

Daniel A. Tompkins (12 October 1851 – 18 October 1914) was an American engineer, industrialist, and journalist.

Early life and education Tompkins was born 12 October 1851 to DeWitt Clinton and Hannah Virginia Smyly Tompkins. He attended Edgefield Academy as a youth. He expressed desire in the field of Engineering since a young age.

Tompkins entered the University of South Carolina in 1867. In 1869, he transferred to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute to study Civil engineering. During school vacations, Tompkins would work as a drafter for John A. Griswold and Company. He graduated in 1873 with a Civil Engineering degree. In 1899, Tompkins's textile juggernaut led to his appointment by President William McKinley to the U.S. Industrial Commission.

Death On 18 October 1914, Tompkins died from a paralytic condition. The former Textile Building at North Carolina State University is named in honor of him.