This particular wooden weaving machine was invented by Sakichi Toyoda – yes, that’s Toyoda with a "d" – in 1890, forefather of the modern Toyota – with a "t" – we know and love today.

Shoichiro Toyoda ‘s grandfather, Sakichi Toyoda, invented the automatic loom in a backyard shed, mainly because he wanted to help his mother, who often was weaving in their home. People were skeptical ...