Old Gorgon Graham More Letters from a Self-Made Merchant to His Son

A seasoned pork‑packer from the bustling Chicago Union Stock Yards writes a steady stream of letters to his son, Pier Peyton, who is learning the ropes of the family business. In a voice that mixes dry business counsel with wry humor, Old Gorgon Graham offers practical advice on everything from managing the lard department to navigating sudden staff losses. The correspondence also drifts into personal territory, with gentle nudges about love, travel, and the occasional clash of generational priorities.

Through these missives listeners hear a vivid portrait of early‑20th‑century commerce, complete with trips to Carlsbad, London, and New York and colorful anecdotes about boardroom intrigues and wedding presents. The letters capture the rhythm of a bustling industry while revealing a father’s affection and impatience as his son steps into leadership.

The collection feels like eavesdropping on a candid family conversation, where business jargon sits side‑by‑side with heartfelt counsel, making both the world of meat‑packing and the timeless challenges of mentorship come alive.