November 30: Birthday of R. G. LeTourneau (1888)
Prayer Idea
Pray for people who build and use heavy machinery.
History Note
Robert Gilmour LeTourneau was born in Richford, Vermont, on November 30, 1888. After attending primary school, he studied mechanics and engineering through correspondence courses.
R. G. was working in San Francisco, California, when the earthquake devastated the city in 1906. He learned to use a welding torch as the city rebuilt, and that tool became a key part of his future career.
LeTourneau opened his own dirt-moving business in 1909. He innovated in the construction of heavy equipment and eventually started a large manufacturing business. He provided educational courses for his employees to improve their mathematical, technical, and business skills. During World War II, LeTourneau’s company produced about 70 percent of the earth-moving equipment the Allies used to construct roads and airstrips.
After the war, LeTourneau moved his company to Texas. His used his wealth to support missionary efforts and the establishment of LeTourneau Technical Institute (now University). He said:
Two things I like most to do: one is to design machines, turn on the power and see them work. The other is to help turn on the power of the gospel and see it work in the lives of people.
R. G. LeTourneau and his wife, Evelyn, had eight children. He died in 1969 at age 80.
Soldiers inspect the tires on a LeTourneau road scraper during World War II. Image courtesy the Library of Congress.
Learn More
Watch a biography of the life and ministry of R. G. LeTourneau.
Find more resources at Homeschool History.
