The technical achievements of Elmer A. Sperry (1860-1930) made him one of the most prolific and capable inventors in American history. Like other successful inventors, he knew how to mix finance, engineering, and management to develop unique inventions into commercial products.

Born on October 21, 1860, Elmer Sperry grew up near the small town of Cortland, New York. His mother died a few hours after his birth, and he was raised in a devout Baptist home by an aunt and his grandparents. Sperry showed a natural aptitude and interest in mechanical things during his youth.

While in high school Sperry did well in science and drawing. The drawing skills would prove important in his later years as he visualized and communicated to others his many inventions. Sperry constantly read in the technical library of the local Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA), and during a YMCA-sponsored trip to the 1876 Centennial Exposition...