August 3, 1811 is the birth date of Elisha Graves Otis. He tinkered and invented throughout his life, but his most famous invention was a safety brake for elevators that would keep them from falling if their lines snapped. He started an elevator-making company that still exists. Next time you’re in an elevator, look for the name “Otis” on the threshold.

↓ Transcript
Fact of the Day
Happy birthday Elisha Graves Otis, inventor of the safety elevator.
August 3, 2009 is his 198th birthday.
Told you the elevators were safe.