The Strange Story Of Wellington Burt’S Fortune: A Century Of Mystery

When Wellington Burt died in 1919, he was the 8th wealthiest person in America and the second richest person in Michigan, trailing only Henry Ford. His fortune was built on a simple invention: the “auto-bob”, a device that automatically lubricated carriages. It was an invention that transformed the carriage industry and set the stage for the rise of the automobile.

Burt’s success was built on his ability to see a need and create a simple, effective solution. In the early days of the automobile, lubrication was a major concern for carriage owners. Grease and oil were messy and difficult to apply, and they often failed to reach the critical moving parts of the carriages. Burt’s auto-bob solved this problem. It was a small, self-contained device that fed oil or grease to the carriage’s axles, ensuring smooth, reliable operation.

The auto-bob quickly became a hit, and Burt’s business, the Burt Manufacturing Company, thrived. He sold his device to carriage manufacturers across the country and even exported it to Europe. By the early 1900s, the auto-bob was an essential part of the carriage industry. Burt’s success was a testament to his innovation and business acumen, and it made him one of the wealthiest men in America. He used his fortune to build a lavish mansion in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and to support various philanthropic causes. Today, Burt’s story remains an inspiring example of how a simple invention can lead to great success.