Encyclopedia (Sp) of American Biography and info posted
by Thom Richardson from an encyclopedias to Gen Forum on February 27,
2000
Typed by Annette Campbell
James Bogardus was born 14 Mar 1800 in Catskill, Greene Co, NY. He is
believed to be the son of James Bogardus and Martha Spencer. He married
Margaret McClay.
Mr. Bogardus was an inventor and built the first building using cast iron
supports. This was a five story factory erected in New York City in 1850. This
building was the forerunner of all skyscrapers.
Among his many other inventions were the first dry gas meter, a dynanometer,
and several grinding mills of many types. Mr. Bogardus improved
timepieces, developed delicate engraving machinery, and built machinery for
cutting rubber, pressing glass, and drilling.
Mr Bogardus dropped out of school at the age of 14, and became a watchmaker
apprentice. He patented his first important invention, a device used in
cotton spinning machinery when he was age 30. He died 13 April 1874 in
New York City, New York.