J. Irwin Miller: The Shaping of an American Town

by Nancy Kriplen

J. Irwin Shaping of An American Town tells the life story of this remarkable man who led Cummins Engine Company from its roots as a small, family business to an international Fortune 500 company and transformed Columbus, Indiana, into a gem of midcentury modern architecture. As president and then chairman of Cummins, Miller emphasized a corporation's responsibility to the community in which it was located and its other stakeholders. Miller's commitment to Columbus architecture inspired such legends as I. M. Pei, Eliel and Eero Saarinen, Kevin Roche, and others to contribute their designs to what has become one of the most artistically revolutionary towns in the country. Columbus's unique public art and architecture continue to inspire young architects and attract visitors from around the world. Miller has also played a significant role in the American civil rights movement, securing cosponsorship for the March on Washington and working with presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson to help pass the Civil Rights Act. Martin Luther King Jr., once called Miller "the most socially responsible businessman in the country."

160 pages, Hardcover

Published October 1, 2019

Reviews

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

In preparation for a maiden voyage to Columbus, Indiana, our thoughtful hosts sent us " J. Irwin Miller, The Shaping of an American Town," the history of the architecture in the city, its relationship to its identity, and the visionary who made it possible. Going back to the 1840's, the author tells the story of a belief in a work ethic, the importance of family, and a commitment to community that the ancestors of Miller held. Small steps, then giant steps forward, taking care of Columbus and also paying attention to the needs of the nation, Miller intrigued me, this man I had never heard of before. I admit I had trouble keeping all the family members straight, but I appreciated reading about how he attracted famous architects to the city and how buildings influenced the people who lived and worked there. Perhaps the biggest surprise was his involvement in the civil rights movement and his relationship to a number of presidents. A staunch Republican, he could also acknowledge the need for social programs and advocate until they were put in place. Beyond his love of art and architecture, he supported education, a quality of life for all, diversity, and fair wages. The discussion of the Cummins Engine Company, "more than a diesel engine company," its plans to remain in Columbus and evolve to meet present needs, supported everything I learned years ago about organizational development. I feel as if I am about to visit a slice of architectural history, a gem of a city.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very readable book about an enlightened corporate leader whose gift to his community allowed Columbus IN to become a beacon for modern mid century architecture. An astonishing seven of the buildings whose architecture fees were paid by his foundation are on the National Register of Historic Places. Well written and well researched.

[Evan Guse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nancy Kriplen offers an insightful and fascinating chronicle of J. Irwin Miller’s upbringing, leadership of Cummins, civic engagement, and thoughtfulness in shaping the physical and cultural landscape of Columbus, IN.