Rensselaer Journal, Volume 11, Number 2, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 20 June 1901 — Great Inventor Dies Poor. [ARTICLE]

Great Inventor Dies Poor.

William H. Young, the mechanic who worked out and adapted the ideas of Ellas Howe, inventor of the sewing machine, died in the poorhouse at Bridgeport, Conn., of consumption and alcoholism. Young, who was 71 years old, and who was always known as “Harry” though “Harry” was not his first name, was a rich man 25 years ago. He was looked upon almost as a partner of Ellas Howe. Young moved in good society and was on the eve of making a national reputation when the evil of drink overpowered him and dulled bis sensibilities. He became little better than a tramp, and a year ago he applied for admission to the almshouse.