Tracks Across America: "Caterpillar" Tractors and the Growth of a Nation

Tracks Across America: "Caterpillar" Tractors and the Growth of a NationSince its invention, the Caterpillar tractor has played a key role in the industrial development of the United States. From the turn of the century to Neil Armstrongs first step on the lunar surface, Tracks Across America traces the evolution of both a machine and the company that built it. Written by a retired Caterpillar Inc. engineer and a Peoria area journalist, the book celebrates the 100th anniversary of the company and the unique heritage of an

Since its invention, the “Caterpillar” tractor has played a key role in the industrial development of the United States.  From the turn of the century to Neil Armstrong’s first step on the lunar surface, “Tracks Across America” traces the evolution of both a machine and the company that built it.  Written by a retired Caterpillar Inc. engineer and a Peoria-area journalist, the book celebrates the 100th anniversary of the company and the unique heritage of an iconic American product through the use of original company magazine advertisements as illustrations.

“This book represents the building of a nation and a global business icon with a wonderful collection of text and illustrations.  Not many companies have changed the world like Caterpillar Inc.  Whether it’s the roads that improve lives or dams that provide water and everything in between, this company has left a lasting imprint on our lives.  We all should be proud of the generations of manufacturing and progress.” 

Douglas R. Oberhelman – retired Chief Executive Officer, Caterpillar Inc.

About the Author

Mark Johnson is a native of the Midwest, born in Michigan and growing up in Wisconsin. After receiving a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University in 1975, he subsequently worked for Caterpillar Tractor Company and then Caterpillar Inc. in Peoria, Illinois, for thirty-seven years before retiring in 2008.

Steve Tarter was born in England and grew up in Boston. He has made Central Illinois his home, residing in Peoria, Illinois, for the past fifty years. He lives not far from Bradley University, the school he graduated from with a degree in Journalism. He worked for Peoria’s daily newspaper, the Journal Star, for twenty years with stints as a reporter and business editor, where he covered Caterpillar Inc. for a number of years.