In our modern world, many innovations make our lives more convenient. Some of these inventions optimize jobs. This is especially true in the construction industry. In this article, we will discuss the history of Bobcat construction equipment and its impact today.
Humble Beginnings
Did you know Bobcat began with two brothers from Minnesota? Louis and Cyril Keller both worked as blacksmiths. They helped make life easier for many farmers with their plows and assisted many other folks with their snowblowers.
While the Keller brothers had success making these machines, they received a request from Eddie Velo, a turkey farmer, in 1956. He wanted to find a way to remove manure from his barn’s second story. Neither the brothers’ equipment nor anything else on the market could accomplish this task, so they wanted to do their best to design a machine that could.
After some experimenting, the Keller brothers succeeded by designing a three-wheeled compact loader machine that could safely do the job for Velo.
Compact Equipment Origins
The news of the three-wheeled compact machine caught on fast. Because of its popularity, the Keller brothers needed to find more help. They eventually met the Melroe Brothers (Les, Cliff, Roger, and Irv) in 1958 and decided to team up with their manufacturing company. Together, this union took compact equipment to the next level.
These machines revolutionized how jobs were done, putting effectiveness and speed at the forefront. This inspired the Bobcat branding we all know today.
Modern Bobcat Equipment
Naturally, this company continues to innovate its equipment, facilitating many tasks in the construction industry. One prime example is how Bobcat developed modern skid-steer loaders, designing the M400 model by 1960.
The compact track loader of 1999 was another significant innovation. This machine was known as the Bobcat 864, and it could handle itself in even the muddiest terrains because of its rubber tracks, which replaced the conventional tires. Construction professionals and machine lovers alike can check out more facts about the Bobcat 864/T200 to see how this equipment progressed.
Today, Bobcat continues to invent modern solutions with small, articulated loaders, which hit the market in 2020. This equipment can handle residential jobs in tiny spaces. With its comfortable seat and steering wheel, small articulated loaders are great for beginners.
We hope you enjoyed learning the history of Bobcat construction equipment. From its humble beginnings to modern machines, it’s no wonder this company remains a mainstay in the construction industry.