1859 - Jacob Edson forms Edson Corporation to design and manufacture specialty hardware for the commercial marine trade. Invents first diaphragm pump. Becomes standard hardware on all Gloucester fishing schooners. 1880 - Edson Diaphragm Pump receives U.S. patent, First to use rubber diaphragms and valves. 1890 - Edson pumps first used for pumping sewerage.
Company introduces horse-drawn honey wagon.
1904 - Edson exhibits steering systems and pumps to the yachting industry at the first New York Boat Show, held at the old Madison Square Garden. 1905 - Edson steering system designed for the schooner, America, begins long association with America's Cup defenders. All the Hog Island freighters and the liberty ships of WWI use Edson Emergency Steering and Pump systems. 1920's - Yachts of the Roaring 1920's and 30's are almost always equipped with Edson hardware including pumps, steering systems, custom wheels, deck plates, flag staffs, ventilators, and stanchions. The famous Elco PT boats and naval and merchant marine vessels are equipped with Edson emergency-steering systems and emergency pumps.