Thomas A. Watson: A Biography

Thomas Augustus Watson was born January 18, 1854, in Salem, Massachusetts. His practical knowledge and skills in electrical engineering and mechanics were largely self-taught, acquired through his work as a machinist and electrician. He did not attend college but learned extensively through hands-on experience. Watson began his career working at the electrical machine shop of Charles Williams in Boston. This shop was known for its work in telegraphy and electrical devices. In 1874, Alexander Graham Bell, who was experimenting with ways to transmit sound electronically, hired Watson as his assistant. Watson's technical skills were essential in turning Bell's ideas into working prototypes. He worked closely with Bell to develop and refine the necessary components. On March 10, 1876, the first successful telephone message was transmitted. Bell's famous words, "Mr. Watson, come here, I want to see you," were heard by Watson, marking the first instance of a clear, understandable voice transmission over a wire. Watson continued to work with Bell to improve and commercialize the telephone. He was involved in setting up the first telephone exchange and contributed to the early growth of the telephone industry. After his work with Bell, Watson pursued various other interests. He established a successful shipbuilding company, Fore River Ship and Engine Company, which later became a significant shipbuilding enterprise in the United States. Thomas A. Watson died on December 13, 1934. See Exploring Life: The Autobiography of Thomas A. Watson.

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