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Daniel Best
1838 - 1923

A pioneering manufacturer in California responsible for much of the early development of such equipment as the combine, the steam harvester and mechanized agriculture. His steam traction engines quickly found extensive use in construction and forestry. But by 1895 he had also developed and introduced internal combustion engines for use in a number of construction applications. In addition, he did much to further the concept of field service by writing to each customer to determine their satisfaction. Repairs were made quickly as a result. In 1908, he sold his company, Best Manufacturing, to Benjamin Holt, which eventually became the first headquarters for Caterpillar Inc.

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