All Aboard Equality: Recognizing Pioneering Black Americans in Rail

Since America’s first passenger service in 1830, the beginning of the transcontinental railroad construction in 1862, to the first time a locomotive has exceeded 100 MPH, the development of the railroads has been built into what it is today through the efforts of countless innovative inventors. As February unfolds and Black History Month begins, I’m excited to dedicate this month’s blog to recognizing the often-overlooked Black Inventors who have made revolutionary impacts on the railway systems we have in place today. These engineers/inventors have profoundly shaped rail travel and have undoubtedly shaped how the VRE runs and operates, leaving a legacy that we all continue to reap the benefits from. Join me in a quick history lesson as we celebrate their ingenuity and transformative influence on our transportation systems today.

Elijah McCoy (1844-1929) 

Born in Canada to parents who had escaped enslavement from Kentucky via the underground railroad, Elijah always harbored a keen interest in engineering. As a teenager, he had the opportunity to travel to Scottland for a mechanical engineer apprenticeship. Despite returning to Michigan as a certified mechanical engineer, he was unable to land a job in the United States due to racial barriers. At that time, regardless of certifications or background, professional positions were not available to African Americans. 

During his tenure as a fireman with Michigan Central Railroad, Elijah couldn’t ignore the inefficiency of trains stopping every few miles for manual – and perilous -- lubrication. This realization gave birth to his first invention: a lubricating cup designed to evenly distributed oil over moving parts. Not only did these innovations enhance railroad safety and efficiency, but it also gained immense popularity, becoming a sought-after component. Other inventors attempted to replicate it without success, leading to the coining of the phrase “the real McCoy.”  

Elijah went on to patent more than 50 inventions throughout his lifetime, leaving an indelible mark on the development of railways and rail travel.

Granville T. Woods (1856-1910) 

Woods earned the name “Black Edison,” a testament to his contribution in the world of invention. His portfolio of 60 patented inventions, including a steam boiler furnace and an electro-mechanical brake, truly justifies this title. Among his many groundbreaking creations, the Multiplex Railway Telegraph System in 1887 stands out as its most prolific one. This system facilitated the transmission of messages to and from moving electric trains and significantly expedited important communications, reducing accidents and collisions between trains. Woods legacy as the “Black Edison” endures through his inventions, a testament to his contributions to the advancement of railway technology.   

Andrew Jackson Beard (1849-1921) 

Born on a plantation in Alabama, Beard journey from emancipated at 15to becoming a self-taught railroading expert is remarkable. Prior to his pivotal invention, he honed many of his skills as a farmer running a flourmill. Despite not having a formal education, Beard invented a variety of farming plows for his business. He went on to invent the first automatic railroad car coupler after tragically losing his leg in a coupling incident.  

The “Jenny Coupler,” revolutionized railroading, eliminating the need for employees to risk their lives standing between rail cards during coupling and uncoupling. This safety innovation not only saved countless lives but also propelled Beard to become the first black millionaire in Jefferson County, Alabama. In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, he was honored with a place in the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2006.  

Acknowledging and embracing diverse perspectives is paramount as we reflect on the legacies of these inventors. This Black History Month, VRE not only celebrates the impactful inventions that have shaped our industry but also pays tribute to the resilience and victories over adversity that continue to resonate in the legacy of these inventors. Their stories serve as a reminder of the power of diversity and innovation, propelling us forward on the rails.  

Works Cited 

 "Chronology of America's Freight Railroads." Association of American Railroads, [https://www.aar.org/chronology-of-americas-freight-railroads/#].  

 "A History of the Union Pacific." Union Pacific, [ https://www.up.com/customers/track-record/tr2221-black-railroad-...]. 

"Elijah McCoy." Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, [https://www.biography.com/inventors/elijah-mccoy]. 

"Granville T. Woods." Biography.com, A&E Television Networks, [https://www.biography.com/inventors/granville-t-woods]. 

"Andrew J. Beard." National Inventors Hall of Fame, [https://www.invent.org/inductees/andrew-j-beard#:~:text=Andrew%20Jackson%20Beard%20invented%20the,slave%20in%20Jefferson%20County%2C%20Alabama.].