Making Tracks

Ford is to automobile what Best is to tractors. Making Tracks: C.L. Best and the Caterpillar Tractor Co. is a complete picture of Clarence Leo Best and why he was driven to live up to his name–Best. Read about the little-known history of the name behind the success of the historical California company, the Caterpillar Tractor Co.

Best’s life was varied and intriguing; designing and building tractors, raising cattle, fistfights in the boardroom, lawsuits and hostile takeovers, and mining gold were a few of the experiences that punctuate the chapters of this brilliant life. Ultimately, Best’s improvements to the track-type tractor concept allowed the Caterpillar Tractor Co. to become the world’s road builder and so much more.

This story follows Best through his life, from working for his father through starting and operating his own company to being chairman of the board for the Caterpillar Tractor Co. for twenty-six years. To complete the profile of the man as well as the entrepreneur, the authors interviewed Best’s only son and were granted access to countless family photos and records.

April Michelle Davis worked with the authors while copyediting this manuscript. She corrected grammar and punctuation but also ensured consistency in logic and facts throughout to eliminate any possible confusion the readers may have. April Michelle’s knowledge and skills as a copyeditor are reflected highly on the authors’ credibility.