Benoit, Jean Batiste Arsidas

ID
0224
Nationality
American
born Canadian
Occupation
Bicycle manufacturer and seller
Machinist
Auto mechanic
Summary
Deafened at age 16, moved with his parents to Massachusetts, where he worked 1 year in a cotton factory. Moved again to Benson, MN, and entered the Minnesota School for the deaf, leaving 2 years later after gaining a knowledge of English. Went into the photography trade in Bellingham, MN, until a fire that destroyed half the town also ruined his business. He then opened a new business in the assembly, sale, and repair of bicycles. He made his own gasoline-fueled engine that powered his shop. In 1901, built his own 5-hp two-seat automobile, which attracted favorable attention from the public. As the automobile became more popular, he converted his bicycle shop into an automobile repair shop and garage.
References
Deaf Heritage in Canada, p. 452-453; Representative Deaf Persons [first edition], p.108-109; Representative Deaf Persons [second edition], p.133-134.
Dates
23 August 1866-?