Track Tractor

Benjamin Holt, USA, patent of 1907. Continuous tracks that floated machines over mud.

Overview

Holt patented the continuous-tread tractor after photographing one of his wheels sinking in San Joaquin delta peat. The Caterpillar name followed a 1904 test run's crawl. Track tractors drained swamps, plowed the plains, and inspired tank designs adopted by armies. Holt merged with Best in 1925 to form Caterpillar Inc. The 1907 patent's linkless tread principle still powers earthmovers and tanks. Farm equipment went from ox-weight to steel footprint that day.