The Legacy of Ambler, Pennsylvania: One of America’s First Asbestos Factory Towns
Ambler, Pennsylvania, may seem like a typical suburban town today, but its history tells a much more complex story. For nearly a century, Ambler was at the forefront of America’s asbestos industry. The town’s identity was shaped by asbestos production, earning it the nickname “The Asbestos Capital of the World.” While the industry brought economic prosperity and jobs, it also left behind a devastating legacy of health issues and environmental contamination that still resonates today.
The Rise of Ambler, Pennsylvania as an Asbestos Hub
In the late 19th century, Ambler became home to the Keasbey & Mattison Company (K&M), a manufacturer specializing in asbestos products. In 1881, Dr. Richard V. Mattison moved the company from Philadelphia to Ambler to take advantage of the transportation infrastructure and water supply. K&M rapidly expanded, producing everything from shingles and pipe insulation to brake pads, all containing asbestos. By the early 1900s, Ambler’s economy was thriving, and the town’s identity became deeply intertwined with asbestos manufacturing.
The Hazards of Asbestos
Asbestos was once celebrated for its heat-resistant and durable qualities, making it popular for construction, automotive, and other industries. However, the very properties that made asbestos valuable also made it deadly. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs, leading to severe diseases like asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Although the dangers of asbestos were known as early as the 1930s, its use continued for decades, largely due to corporate negligence and the suppression of scientific data.
The long-term impact of asbestos exposure became evident in Ambler’s residents. Workers at the factories, as well as their families and nearby residents, were routinely exposed to asbestos dust. The results were tragic, with many locals developing fatal illnesses years after the factories had shut down. Ambler’s legacy became a cautionary tale of industrial greed outweighing public health, as countless families faced the repercussions of exposure.
Environmental Challenges and Superfund Sites
The toxic legacy of asbestos in Ambler extends beyond human health issues. Decades of production left behind mountains of asbestos waste; some towering as high as 100 feet. These waste piles became known locally as “The White Mountains of Ambler.” Even after the factories closed in the 1980s, these waste sites posed serious health risks to the community. In 1986, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designated several areas in Ambler as Superfund sites. Despite years of cleanup efforts, concerns about contamination persist.
In recent years, Ambler has made strides in overcoming its asbestos-tainted past. The town has seen significant revitalization efforts, with new residential and commercial developments taking shape where factories once stood. However, some redevelopment projects have sparked controversy due to lingering contamination concerns. The debate between revitalization and public safety remains a point of tension in the community.While the asbestos industry once brought jobs and economic growth to Ambler, it also left behind a legacy of suffering that still impacts the community today. If you or someone you know is suffering from lung cancer or mesothelioma, contact GPW today at 412-471-3980 to discuss your case and protect your rights. Our team is committed to advocating for justice and holding those responsible for asbestos exposure accountable.
