The New Student's Reference Work/Howe, Elias

Howe, Elias, inventor of the sewing machine, was the son of a farmer, and was born at Spencer, Mass., July 9, 1819. He worked for a manufacturer at Cambridge, and there conceived the idea of the sewing machine. After five years' labor he completed and patented it, but was penniless and could find no sale for his invention. He sought England unsuccessfully, and on his return found his machine imitated. After a long lawsuit he recovered his rights, organized a company to manufacture his machines, and made a large fortune. He served in the 7th Connecticut regiment during the war. He died at Brooklyn, N. Y., Oct. 3, 1867.