Granville T. Woods (1856-1910), US inventor. Woods is celebrated as the 'Black Edison', a reference to his many inventions. Born in Columbus, Ohio, he trained as a machinist and blacksmith, and later as a fireman, and then chief engineer on a steamer. He settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, and began developing inventions related to the railroad. His patents include an overhead electrical conducting system (1888), steam engines (1889), and wireless telegraphy systems (1887). This earlier invention was purchased by Alexander Graham Bell's company, enabling Woods to become a full-time inventor. He also worked on air brakes for trains. Artwork published in 1887.