Caterpillar Inc.

The founding of the Stockton Wheel Company in 1884 marked the beginning of what would eventually evolve into Caterpillar Inc., a renowned company in the heavy equipment industry.

In 1890, Benjamin Holt invented a steam tractor to help farmers work longer hours compared to using horses.

In 1896, the merger of Holt Manufacturing Company and C.L. Best Gas Traction Company formed the Caterpillar Inc., a major manufacturer of construction and mining equipment.

On Thanksgiving Day in 1904, Benjamin Holt invented the first commercially successful track-type tractor, which eventually led to the establishment of Caterpillar Inc. The innovation of replacing rear wheels with tracks helped farmers deal with soft soil.

In March of 1905, during a test run of No.77 with an improved set of tracks, the company photographer, Charlie Clements, coined the term 'Caterpillar' to describe the machine's movement without visible wheels. This name would become synonymous with earthmoving equipment for many years to come.

In 1906, Benjamin Holt constructed an experimental gasoline tractor after recognizing the constraints of steam power.

In 1909, the Holt Caterpillar track-type tractor was introduced, marking a significant development in the history of Caterpillar Inc.

In 1910, the Holt Manufacturing Company, one of the predecessor companies of Caterpillar Inc., began the practice of rebuilding and reselling machines. This early form of remanufacturing laid the foundation for Caterpillar's commitment to sustainability and efficiency.

In 1926, the first Caterpillar product line was showcased at an early CONEXPO, which was a combination of Holt and Best machines. A rare photo of the entire product line is available from this event.

In 1927, Caterpillar acquired the Russell Grader company, a move that played a crucial role in the development of the industry's first true motor grader in 1931.

In 1928, Caterpillar Tractor Co. acquired the Russell Grader Manufacturing Company, which led to the establishment of the Road Machinery Division. This acquisition was significant in the history of Caterpillar's expansion and product diversification.

Caterpillar track-type tractors played a significant role in the construction of the Hoover Dam in 1936.

Caterpillar machinery was instrumental in the completion of the Golden Gate Bridge construction in 1937.

In 1945, Caterpillar made a significant milestone by introducing the first dozer blade that was designed and manufactured by the company.

During the same decade, Caterpillar introduced its iconic 'Cat' trademark, which has since become synonymous with the company's brand and products.

The Caterpillar Foundation was established in 1952 with a mission to improve communities by making them stronger, more resilient, and sustainable. It has been actively involved in global disaster relief efforts by providing financial support to organizations like the Red Cross.

In 1955, the D9 became the first Cat® machine to be equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine. This technology utilized exhaust gases to boost power output, leading to improved efficiency and reduced fuel consumption and emissions.

In 1958, Caterpillar opened its first overseas plant in Glasgow, Scotland, marking the beginning of the company's expansion into Europe. The plant was established to manufacture parts for Caterpillar machines in the European market.

The first Caterpillar tractor produced outside of the United States was built at the Leicester, United Kingdom, plant in 1959.

Caterpillar was the first to use diesel engines in mobile equipment due to their efficiency, dependability, and simplicity.

In 1962, Caterpillar announced the 769 off-highway truck, marking the beginning of nearly 60 years of service to the global mining industries.

Caterpillar Inc.'s gensets played a crucial role in powering the Apollo 11 mission to the moon.

In 1973, Caterpillar started production at its first remanufacturing plant located in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Caterpillar unveiled the D10 track-type tractor in 1977, showcasing its innovation in heavy machinery.

In 1981, Caterpillar acquired Solar Turbines.

In 1986, Caterpillar officially changed its name from Caterpillar Tractor Company to Caterpillar Inc. This rebranding reflected the company's evolution beyond just tractors to providing a wider range of solutions.

In 1992, the United Auto Workers conducted a five-month strike against Caterpillar due to labor disputes.

In 1994, Caterpillar machines were utilized in the construction of the Kansai International Airport in Osaka, Japan.

In 1997, Caterpillar deployed the Cat 3516 Generator Set to provide backup power in New York City, ensuring reliable electricity supply during emergencies.

In 1998, Caterpillar acquired the Perkins brand based in Peterborough, England. This acquisition expanded Caterpillar's global presence as a manufacturer of diesel and gas reciprocating engines.

In July 1999, Caterpillar and five other diesel engine manufacturers signed a consent decree with the Justice Department and the State of California due to violations of the Clean Air Act. The violation involved selling over a million diesel engines with defeat devices that allowed emissions to exceed permissible levels.

In 2001, Caterpillar gensets were used to provide power during a crisis-level shortage in Brazil.

CTCT is a joint venture between Caterpillar Electronics business unit and Trimble Inc. It develops positioning and control products for earthmoving and paving machines in the construction and mining industries, utilizing technologies like GNSS, optical total stations, lasers, and sonics.

In 2003, American activist Rachel Corrie was tragically killed by a Caterpillar D9 bulldozer operated by the Israel Defense Forces, leading to criticism and legal actions against Caterpillar.

In 2005, Caterpillar finalized the acquisition of a minority ownership stake in Shandong SEM Machinery Co., Ltd. located in Quingzhou, China.

In 2011, Caterpillar acquired Bucyrus International, Inc. and MWM GmbH, expanding its presence in the heavy equipment and power generation industries.

In 2013, Caterpillar achieved $55 billion in sales and revenue, solidifying its position as a global leader in the industry.

In 2019, Caterpillar introduced the D6 XE, the world’s first elevated sprocket electric drive dozer, offering significant fuel efficiency and productivity improvements.

The company revealed intentions to shift its global headquarters from Deerfield, Illinois, to Irving, Texas, citing strategic interests.

On July 27, 2022, marks the legacy of Benjamin Holt, the inventor of the first commercially successful track-type tractor. His innovation continues to be a vital part of Caterpillar's product line.

In January 2023, Caterpillar reached a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service and was not ordered to pay any penalties after scrutiny over tax evasion.