Elijah McCoy

BORN!

May 2, 1844

Elijah J. McCoy was born free in 1844 in Colchester, Ontario, Canada to George and Mildred (Goins) McCoy, who were black. They were fugitive slaves who had escaped from Kentucky to Canada via helpers through the Underground Railroad. In 1847, the family returned to the US, settling in Ypsilanti, Michigan.

Returned to the United States

Jan 1, 1847

Elijah McCoy returned as a five-year-old child with his family to the United States in 1847.

STUDYING

Jan 1, 1859

At age 15, McCoy traveled to Edinburgh, Scotland for an apprenticeship and study. After some years, he was certified in Scotland as a mechanical engineer. After his return, he rejoined his family.

Married

Jan 1, 1868

McCoy married Ann Elizabeth Stewart in 1868. But sadly, she died 4 years later in 1872.

First patent

Jul 12, 1872

Elijah McCoy got his first patent for his improvement in lubricators in steam engines.

McCoy opened his own company

Jan 1, 1920

In 1920, McCoy opened his own company, the Elijah McCoy Manufacturing Company. Unfortunately, Elijah McCoy suffered in his later years, enduring a financial, mental, and physical breakdown.

McCoy died

Oct 10, 1929

Sadly, McCoy died; but his invention is still used today!