A rare combination of inventive genius and business ability characterized Alonzo Aldrich, and because of those qualities, he established one of Beloit’s outstanding industries. For 42 years he was president of the Beloit Iron Works.

He was born March 15, 1858, at Logansport, Indiana, the son of an inventor and manufacturer. Early in the history of this city, his father was associated with W.H. Wheeler, windmill and engine manufacturer.

He studied engineering at the University of Illinois, and his first place of employment was at the Merrill and Houston Iron Works here. With Fred Messer, N.J. Ross, and W.H. Grinnell, he purchased the factory, and a few years later he succeeded Fred Messer as president.

Ten years later, papermaking machinery produced in Beloit was being shipped to foreign countries, and the concern grew. Alonzo Aldrich was first a draftsman, and his contribution to that field was great. His mechanical and engineering mind conceived many improvements. They revolutionized papermaking machines, and he secured scores of patents.

He was alert to opportunity, aggressive, and forceful. Outstanding in the account of his life and contribution to his business and his city was his kindly relationship with fellow workmen. He was generous. He helped to build the First Baptist Church in Beloit.

Mr. Aldrich died in 1931.