Share

David Nelson Crosthwait, Jr. biography

Quick Facts

  • PLACE OF DEATH: unknown
more about David

Best Known For

David Nelson Crosthwait, Jr. was an African American pioneer in the field of heating and air conditioning, best known for heating up Radio City Music Hall.

Synopsis

Born in Nashville on May 27, 1898, David Nelson Crosthwaite, Jr. studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University before taking a job with the C. A. Dunham Company. At Dunham, Crosthwait conducted innovative research, and designed the heat system for R

Contents

Profile

Engineer, inventor, writer. Born on May 27, 1898, in Nashville, Tennessee. An African American pioneer in the field of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC), Crosthwait attended Purdue University where he studied mechanical engineering. After graduating in 1913, he took a job with the C. A. Dunham Company (now known as Dunham-Bush, Inc).

During his time with the company, Crosthwait held many positions, including director of research. While at Dunham, he conducted research in several areas, including heat transfer and steam transport. His work led to many innovations in HVAC devices and technology and held more than 30 U.S. patents. Crosthwait designed HVAC systems; the heating system at Radio City Music Hall in New York City is perhaps the best-known example of his work.

Besides research, product development, and HVAC system design, Crosthwait also advanced his field by writing articles and revising sections of several editions of American Society of Heating and Ventilation Engineers Guide. His accomplishments were recognized by many in his field. He won a medal from the National Technological Association in the 1930s and was made a fellow of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) in 1971??the first African American to received the honor.

Crosthwait officially retired from Dunham in 1969 after serving as an advisor since 1930. He died on February 25, 1976.

© 2012 A+E Networks. All rights reserved.

ADVERTISEMENT
205623 205623
profile id: 205623
profile name: David Nelson Crosthwait, Jr.
profile occupation:
related profile id: 205623
related profile name: David Nelson Crosthwait, Jr.
related profile occupation:
related profile img: /assets/images/no-image.jpg
related profile URL: /people/david-nelson-crosthwait-jr-205623
profile
pop
Your Connections

Sign in with Facebook to see how you and your friends are connected to famous icons.

specific profile connection
See More Bio Connections
Your Friends' Connections
specific friend connection
Profile Connections
    Show More Connections
    Included In These Groups

    See all related groups

    Shop Bio
    Hank Williams, Jr. DVD
    DVD
    $19.99

    Buy Now

    Celebrity Connections

    Show More Connections
    Fact Check: We strive for accuracy and fairness. If you see something that doesn't look right, contact us!