George Francis Train, a millionaire traveler and self-proclaimed psycho, played a pivotal role in promoting Tacoma in the late 19th century, leveraging his eccentric personality and media savvy to fuel the rivalry with Seattle and inspire global travel narratives.
In the late 19th century, George Francis Train emerged as a prominent figure whose eccentricities and ambitions made him a millionaire traveler, writer, and activist. His larger-than-life persona not only made Tacoma famous but also allegedly inspired Jules Verne's bestseller, Around the World in 80 Days. This blog post delves into Train's life, his impact on Tacoma, and the parallels between his era and contemporary influencers.
George Francis Train was born in 1829 and became one of the most colorful characters of 19th-century America. Orphaned at a young age, he found his footing in the shipping business, where he excelled in logistics and global trade. His obsession with speed in travel and communication set the stage for his later exploits.
Train's early career in shipping involved working with packet boats that transported passengers and cargo between the United States and Britain. His ventures took him around the globe, including significant time spent in Australia and Great Britain, where he became a major merchant and trader. His fascination with global trade and efficient transportation mirrored the burgeoning opportunities presented by the transcontinental railroads in the United States.
Train's self-promotion and media savvy positioned him as a precursor to modern influencers. He published newspapers, wrote extensively, and cultivated relationships with journalists, effectively becoming a one-man news service. His prolific output of stories and editorials made him a household name, drawing comparisons to contemporary figures like Elon Musk.
Train's obsession with himself and his ventures was described as monomania, a term that captures his singular focus on personal glory. He was known for his grandiose claims and theatrical personality, often positioning himself at the center of every narrative he crafted.
Train's political views were as eclectic as his personality. He supported various causes, from women's suffrage to Irish independence, often aligning himself with radical movements. His business practices, however, remained staunchly capitalistic, reflecting a complex relationship between his ideals and actions.
In 1872, Train ran for president on the Greenback party ticket, although his candidacy was largely seen as a publicity stunt. His eccentricities often overshadowed his political ambitions, leading to a mixed legacy in the political arena.
Train's relationship with Tacoma began when he sought sponsorship for a trip around the world, aiming to beat the record set by journalist Nellie Bly. He coined the phrase "City of Destiny" for Tacoma, promoting it as a burgeoning hub for global trade. This endeavor not only aimed to elevate Tacoma's status but also to satisfy Train's insatiable need for attention and recognition.
Train capitalized on the existing rivalry between Tacoma and Seattle, using his influence to position Tacoma as the superior city. His colorful rhetoric, including the phrase "Seattle's death rattle," further fueled the competitive spirit between the two cities.
In 1890, Train embarked on his journey around the world, successfully completing it in 67 days, thus beating Bly's record of 72 days. However, his triumph was marred by logistical issues upon his return, leading to a public relations debacle that tarnished his image.
Despite his initial success, Train's later attempts to replicate his fame, including another trip around the world for Bellingham, failed to capture public interest. His legacy became a cautionary tale of how ambition and ego can lead to both great achievements and significant disappointments.
George Francis Train's life is a fascinating study of ambition, eccentricity, and the complexities of self-promotion. His influence on Tacoma and the broader narrative of global travel in the 19th century remains significant, serving as a reminder of how one individual's personality can shape the destiny of a city. As we reflect on Train's legacy, we see echoes of his monomania in today's social media influencers, highlighting the timeless nature of ambition and the quest for recognition.
