April 19

Elijah McCoy Events The Lubricator Attachment For Steam Engines

Elijah McCoy (May 2, 1844 - October 10, 1929) patented the Lubricator Attachment for steam engine trains on April 19, 1887.  This invention greatly changed the locomotive industry by allowing trains to be oiled while in motion.  Prior to this invention, trains had to be completely shut down for oil maintenance.  This invention saved the train industry a lot of time and money.  McCoy patented 57 inventions primarily associated with the locomotive industry.  Some of those patents not associated with the locomotive industry were for a lawn sprinkler, ironing board, design for a rubber shoe heel, a buggy top support and tread for tires. McCoy also established his own company (Elijah McCoy Manufacturing Company).  His inventions were of such high quality and dependability people started referring to quality products  as "The Real McCoy".  A phrase that is still used to describe excellence today.