George Westinghouse

Early Life and Background

George Westinghouse Jr. was an American entrepreneur, inventor, and industrialist who created the railway air brake and received his patent at the age of 19. He made significant contributions to the development of alternating current electrical systems. Westinghouse was born on October 6, 1846, in Central Bridge, New York. George Westinghouse was the eighth of ten children born to George Westinghouse Sr. who owned a machine shop and Emmeline Vedder.

Early Exposure to Mechanics and Military Service

From a young age, he was talented with machinery and business. He started working in his father’s shop and gained access to various mechanical devices. During the Civil War, he enlisted in the New York National Guard and served until his family wanted him to return home. He served in the military and Navy till 1865.

First Inventions and Early Patents

At the age of 19, he created his first invention, a rotary steam engine, and received a patent, demonstrating his early entrepreneurial spirit. At 21, he also invented a car replacer, a device to guide derailed railroad cars, and a reversible frog, a device used with a railroad switch to guide trains.

The Railroad Air Brake and Business Ventures

He was granted a patent in 1869 for his groundbreaking invention, the railroad air brake, which significantly enhanced the safety and effectiveness of railway travel. He founded the Westinghouse Air Brake Company in 1869 after the invention of the air brake.

Promoting Alternating Current and the Battle with Edison

Westinghouse was primarily recognized for promoting AC electrical systems over DC systems. He patented AC current systems and developed efficient machinery for long-distance electricity transmission. Westinghouse and Edison battled over developing the AC-powered hydroelectric station at Niagara Falls. The project highlighted AC technology’s superiority in long-distance power transmission.

Founding of Westinghouse Electric Corporation

In 1886, Westinghouse founded the Westinghouse Electric Corporation, a major player in the electrical and manufacturing industry. George Westinghouse held patents for various inventions throughout his career, including improvements to the steam engine, air compressors, signaling systems, and a rotary steam engine.

Later Innovations and Philanthropy

During his later years, he continued to be involved in various business ventures, from electrical manufacturing to the automobile industry. He explored new technologies, like heat pump systems and compressed air shock absorbers for automobiles. Apart from his career, he also took part in charitable causes related to education and public welfare. In 1911, he retired and was no longer active in business.

Death and Legacy

George Westinghouse died on March 12, 1914, in New York City at the age of 67 due to natural causes. He was buried in Arlington National Cemetery, where his gravesite remains a place of historical significance. George Westinghouse’s later life was characterized by a combination of business interests, ongoing innovation, philanthropic endeavors, and a well-deserved retirement. His legacy continues to be honored for his contributions to technology, industry, and the betterment of society.