Businessman, Inventor. His first business was a machine shop in Little Falls, New York, which succeeded in making a practical mowing machine, one of the first in the United States. He moved to New York City, New York, and manufactured baking soda by his own process, selling it in economical, convenient packages, and gaining control of the market. He later added the production of yeast, baking powder and a soap powder to the company products. His soap, one of the first nationally advertised products, was sold from brightly colored street cars (with musicians), which led to the phrase "get on the bandwagon." He was the first manufacturer to give free samples and offer tours of his factory as a tourist attraction. In 1922, author Sinclair Lewis used his name for the title character of his bestseller, about a vulgar and enthusiastic businessman. He held over one hundred patents, and is credited with first envisioning the utilization of the power of Niagara Falls.
Businessman, Inventor. His first business was a machine shop in Little Falls, New York, which succeeded in making a practical mowing machine, one of the first in the United States. He moved to New York City, New York, and manufactured baking soda by his own process, selling it in economical, convenient packages, and gaining control of the market. He later added the production of yeast, baking powder and a soap powder to the company products. His soap, one of the first nationally advertised products, was sold from brightly colored street cars (with musicians), which led to the phrase "get on the bandwagon." He was the first manufacturer to give free samples and offer tours of his factory as a tourist attraction. In 1922, author Sinclair Lewis used his name for the title character of his bestseller, about a vulgar and enthusiastic businessman. He held over one hundred patents, and is credited with first envisioning the utilization of the power of Niagara Falls.
Bio by: Ginny M
Family Members
Advertisement
See more Babbitt memorials in:
Explore more
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
