Inducted 2006

Benjamin Holt set about a way to aid farmers whose heavy equipment sank in soft, muddy soil. Finding wheels ineffective, Holt designed a tractor with tracks to disperse the weight, providing better traction. In 1904, Holt produced the first practical track-type tractor known as the “Caterpillar” and commercialized its use.

Invention Impact

Holt made numerous innovations on his tractor. By 1908, Holt was able to replace steam engines and introduce
gasoline-powered tractors, which offered greater efficiency in operation. Originally developed to solve local agricultural
problems, the Caterpillar track-type tractor soon demonstrated its potential not only in the agricultural environment, but
also in road building, earthmoving, logging, and military operations.

Used extensively by the U.S., French, and British armies in World War I, the track-type tractor was used to haul men and
supplies across the battlefield. From 1914 to 1918, 10,000 Caterpillar tractors were made by Holt Manufacturing Company and
other licensed manufacturers for use in the war. It was the forerunner of the British tank, which profoundly altered ground
warfare tactics.

Holt Manufacturing merged with its competitor in 1925, forming the Caterpillar Tractor Company, predecessor to modern-day
Caterpillar, Inc.

Inventor Bio

Born in Concord, New Hampshire, Holt ushered in the modern era of mechanized farming.