As we wrap up the celebration of Black History Month, we take this time to honor Elijah McCoy, a great Black Inventor who made engines work faster and smoother. Elijah McCoy was born in 1844 in Canada to parents who escaped slavery. He enjoyed learning about machines and studied engineering in Scotland. Later, he moved to Michigan in the U.S. to work for a railroad. Back in his day, engines had to make a lot of stops to get oiled.
This wasted time and slowed down work. Providing an answer to a problem, McCoy invented the automatic engine lubricator in 1872. It oiled engine parts while they ran, saving both time and money. His invention worked so well that people wanted only his design, calling it ‘the real McCoy’ to show his invention was the best from the others.
Because of this witty invention, McCoy made life easier for workers and helped industries grow. Thanks to Elijah McCoy, engines lubricate themselves, allowing us to continue to travel quickly and smoothly.
Put Your Knowledge to the Test!
Take the 2025 Black History Month Quiz and test your knowledge below!
