Thomas became so good at using the telegraph that he got a job working as a telegrapher sending signals between the United States and Canada. As a way of thanking him for saving his child's life, the father taught Thomas how to use the telegraph. While working for the railroad, Thomas saved the life of a station official's child who had fallen onto the tracks of an oncoming train. This worked for a little while, until the train lurched forward and spilled some chemicals, setting the laboratory on fire. Since there was a five-hour layover in Detroit, Edison asked for permission to move his laboratory to the baggage car of the train so he could continue his experiments there.

Thomas got a job as a newsboy for the day-long trip to Detroit and back. In 1859, the Grand Trunk Railroad was extended to Port Huron, Michigan. She understood me she let me follow my bent.'

It was the very best thing she could have done for this singular boy.' One book explained how to perform chemistry experiments at home Thomas did every one in the book.Ī biographer of Edison once noted: 'His mother had accomplished that which all truly great teachers do for their pupils, she brought him to the stage of learning things for himself, learning that which most amused and interested him, and she encouraged him to go on in that path. Edison's mother, Nancy, knew her son was fond of chemistry and electronics, so she gave him books to read on the subjects. Thomas set up a laboratory in the basement of his family's Michigan home and spent most of his time experimenting. He spent a few of his early years in formal schooling, but he received most of his education at home.

Thomas Alva Edison, born in Ohio on February 11, 1847, was one of the most well-known inventors of all time.

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