Katharine Ogden Michaels Knihy

An in-depth look at the life of Oakland native Barclay Simpson, Strong Ties explores the convictions and leadership qualities that enabled him to build a successful business and become a major philanthropist in the San Francisco Bay Area. A Navy pilot during World War II, Simpson dropped out of UC Berkeley in 1946 to save his father's window screens business from bankruptcy, graduating over twenty years later. Largely self-taught, he founded Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc. in 1956, transforming it from a small artisan business into a publicly-traded company known for over 4,000 engineered products in the construction industry. He developed revolutionary company principles that prioritized employees, including a compensation system with quarterly profit-sharing and programs for internal hiring and employee development, allowing many to advance from production line roles to management. As U.S. companies increasingly consider their role in supporting employees and communities, Simpson's philosophy stands out as a relevant American business narrative. His story also highlights how he applied these core principles to his philanthropic efforts, providing significant support to East Bay non-profits focused on the arts and education for low-income children, demonstrating a remarkable continuity between his business and charitable endeavors.

Focusing on the remarkable journey of Barclay Simpson, this biography explores his rise from a struggling entrepreneur to a prominent philanthropist in the San Francisco Bay Area. A Navy pilot during World War II, he returned to academia over two decades after leaving UC Berkeley to rescue his father's business. Largely self-taught, he founded Simpson Manufacturing Co., transforming it from a small artisan shop into a globally recognized company known for its innovative construction products. The book highlights his convictions and leadership that fueled his success.