The Man Behind the Name
Byron J. Carter was an American automotive pioneer, born on August 17, 1863, in Jackson County, Michigan. He was a founding partner of the Jackson Automobile Company and the founder of the Cartercar Company. His experience with steam engines led him to patent a three-cylinder engine, his first engine for the 1902 Jaxon steam car. He also patented a friction transmission, a feature of the Cartercar.
The Fateful Incident
On April 6, 1908, Carter found himself in a situation that would lead to his untimely demise. He was trying to hand crank start a car stranded on the Belle Isle bridge near Detroit. The engine kicked back, and the flying crank broke Carter’s jaw. This incident, according to multiple sources, was the genesis of the creation of the electric starter for automobiles.
The Aftermath
Carter’s injuries didn’t seem serious at first. However, complications arose, and he developed pneumonia as a result of his injuries. He passed away on April 6, 1908, in Detroit. His death certificate records the cause of death as ‘double lobar pneumonia.’
The Legacy
Carter’s tragic death led to significant changes in the automotive industry. His friend, Henry Leland, head of Cadillac, was deeply affected by Carter’s death. He took up the suggestion to do away with the hand crank, sometimes called the ‘arm-strong starter,’ by cranking cars electrically. This was the beginning of the electric starter motor, a standard feature in modern vehicles.
Conclusion
Byron Carter’s cause of death was a tragic event that led to a significant advancement in automotive technology. His legacy lives on in every vehicle that starts with the turn of a key or the push of a button. His story serves as a reminder of the human cost behind the conveniences we often take for granted.
