Construction began on the glue factory plant in Gowanda, originally owned by Richard Wilhelm and known as the Eastern Tanners Glue Company. This factory contributed to Gowanda's reputation as America's glue capital, although Peter Cooper was not directly involved, his legacy in the glue industry influenced the area.

Peter Cooper died in New York City at the age of 92. His death marked the end of a long and impactful life during which he made significant contributions to industry, education, and politics. He is buried in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York.

Peter Cooper broke ground for The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art, a private college in New York. Cooper conceived of the idea of having a free institute in New York, similar to the École Polytechnique (Polytechnical School) in Paris, which would offer free practical education to adults in the mechanical arts and science, to help prepare young men and women of the working classes for success in business.

Peter Cooper, the American industrialist, inventor, philanthropist, and politician, was born in New York City. This marks the beginning of his life and journey, which would later lead to significant contributions in various fields. He was the fifth child of John Cooper, a Methodist hatmaker.