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Who Was Elijah McCoy?
Elijah McCoy, a notable inventor and engineer, was born on May 2, 1844, in Colchester, Ontario, Canada. He was the son of George and Mildred Goins McCoy, who escaped slavery in Kentucky through the Underground Railroad. Despite facing significant racial barriers, McCoy’s contributions to engineering, particularly in the railroad industry, have left a lasting legacy.
Early Life
McCoy’s formative years were marked by an early interest in mechanics, prompting his parents to arrange for him to apprentice in mechanical engineering in Scotland at the age of 15. After completing his training and obtaining certification as a mechanical engineer, he returned to the United States. However, upon his return, McCoy encountered significant racial discrimination, which hindered his ability to secure a position as an engineer. Consequently, he accepted a role as a fireman and oiler for the Michigan Central Railroad.
Engineer and Inventor
While working for the railroad, McCoy observed the inefficiencies of the existing lubrication systems for engines. In response, he invented a revolutionary lubricating cup that evenly distributed oil over the engine’s moving parts, allowing trains to operate for extended periods without maintenance. He secured a patent for this innovation, which significantly improved railroad efficiency. Over his lifetime, McCoy obtained nearly 60 patents, primarily focused on lubrication systems, but also including designs for an ironing board, a lawn sprinkler, and various machinery.
Despite the recognition of his contributions, McCoy often lacked the resources to manufacture his inventions independently. Consequently, he frequently assigned his patent rights to employers or sold them to investors. In 1920, he established the Elijah McCoy Manufacturing Company, enabling him to produce lubricators under his own name.
Family Life
Elijah McCoy married Ann Elizabeth Stewart in 1868; however, she passed away just four years later. He remarried in 1873 to Mary Eleanor Delaney. Tragically, in 1922, the couple was involved in a severe automobile accident that claimed Mary’s life and left Elijah with critical injuries from which he never fully recovered.
Death
Elijah McCoy passed away on October 10, 1929, at the Eloise Infirmary in Detroit, Michigan, at the age of 85. He was interred at Detroit Memorial Park East in Warren, Michigan. His innovative spirit and contributions to engineering continue to be celebrated, underscoring his significance in American history.