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Legendary Locals of Quincy: Thomas Scharf

Doug Price

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Thomas Scharf was a German-born American inventor and manufacturer who is best known for his work in the field of hydraulics. He was born in 1847 in the town of Kusel, Germany. In 1866, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Quincy, Illinois. He started his career as a machinist and eventually went on to found his own company, the Thomas Scharf Manufacturing Company. The company produced a variety of hydraulic products, including pumps, valves, and cylinders. Scharf's inventions had a major impact on the development of the hydraulic industry in the United States. He is considered to be one of the pioneers of the field and is credited with many of the innovations that are still used today.

Legendary Locals of Quincy

by J. Thomas Scharf

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Language	:	English
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Scharf's Early Life and Career

Thomas Scharf was born on March 24, 1847, in the town of Kusel, Germany. His father was a blacksmith, and Scharf spent much of his childhood helping out in his father's shop. He showed an early aptitude for mechanics and engineering. After completing his schooling, Scharf apprenticed as a machinist. In 1866, he immigrated to the United States and settled in Quincy, Illinois. He found work as a machinist at a local machine shop.

In 1872, Scharf started his own company, the Thomas Scharf Manufacturing Company. The company initially produced a variety of machine tools, but Scharf soon became interested in hydraulics. He began to develop and manufacture hydraulic pumps, valves, and cylinders. His products were quickly adopted by local businesses and industries. Scharf's company soon became one of the leading manufacturers of hydraulic equipment in the United States.

Scharf's Inventions

Scharf was a prolific inventor and held over 50 patents in his lifetime. Many of his inventions were related to hydraulics. In 1876, he patented a new type of hydraulic pump that was more efficient and powerful than previous designs. He also invented a number of new hydraulic valves and cylinders. These inventions greatly improved the performance and reliability of hydraulic systems.

In addition to his work in hydraulics, Scharf also invented a number of other devices, including a new type of steam engine and a new type of water filter. He was a gifted engineer and had a keen eye for solving problems. His inventions had a major impact on the development of several industries, including the manufacturing, transportation, and construction industries.

Scharf's Legacy

Thomas Scharf died in 1911 at the age of 64. He left behind a legacy of innovation and achievement. His inventions had a major impact on the development of the hydraulic industry in the United States. He is considered to be one of the pioneers of the field and is credited with many of the innovations that are still used today. His company, the Thomas Scharf Manufacturing Company, continues to operate today as one of the leading manufacturers of hydraulic equipment in the world.

Scharf's legacy extends beyond his inventions. He was also a dedicated member of his community. He served on the Quincy City Council and was a member of the Quincy Board of Education. He was also a generous philanthropist and donated money to many local charities. Scharf was a true pioneer and visionary who made a significant contribution to his community and to the world.