The Diesel Odyssey of Clessie Cummins: The Remarkable Story of One of America's Greatest Inventors

One of the ironic facets of history is how unequally genius is rewarded. Many are familiar with the tragic end-life story of Nickoli Tesla and the story book life led by his polar opposite, Thomas Edison. Perhaps others are aware of the lack of respect, and financial reward, accorded Philo T. Farnsworth compared to his nemesis and chief saboteur, David Sarnoff.So it was with Clessie Cummins, the dynamic genius who transformed the clunky power of early diesel engines into prime motive power sources for the world's trucking industry, sea going ships, railway power, auxiliary power for everything from sailboats to residential backup power supplies, and even that oversized pickup truck down the block. During his 40 year tenure with the company bearing his name, as its president, prime inventor, booster, public face, and chief of R&D, troubleshooter, and bottle washer, he received a pittance of a salary and nothing for the inventions which made the company.This book is for anyone who is interested in the backstory of one of America's great success stories.

Great read. Interesting guy that developed engine technology

A hard to find, yet great book about the beginnings of Cummins engines!

Always a pleasant surprise to receive something better than promised.That was the case with this book.Would recommend.