August Borsig established his industrial influence in 1837 by founding a machine factory in Berlin, specializing in steam locomotive production. By the time of his death in 1854, his enterprise had reached a near-monopoly, responsible for constructing 67 of the 68 new locomotives commissioned within the Kingdom of Prussia.
Early Career and Technical Training
Born in 1804 in Wrocław, August Borsig was the son of Johann George Borsig, a carpenter foreman. He completed his formal education at the Royal Provincial Art and Building School and the Royal Institute of Trade in Berlin. His practical engineering foundation was established at the Neue Berliner Eisengießerei under Franz Anton Egells, where he managed factory operations for eight years following his initial assignment assembling a steam engine in Waldenburg, Silesia.
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In July 1837, Borsig invested his savings to purchase a site at Chausseestraße in Berlin. The venture faced significant financial and technical risks, yet successfully produced its first locomotive in 1840. This engine demonstrated operational superiority during a competitive trial on the Berlin-Jüterbog railroad, effectively ending reliance on imported locomotive technology. The company rapidly expanded, producing its 100th unit by 1846 and operating the Moabit ironworks by 1849.
Industrial Consolidation and Social Welfare
By 1850, Borsig had integrated multiple facilities under his ownership, employing 1,800 workers across three Berlin factories. Beyond locomotive construction, he provided engineering expertise for the Sanssouci fountain and the domes of the Potsdam Nicolai Church and the Berlin City Palace. Within his company, he implemented welfare structures including a sickness fund, a funeral expenses fund, and a savings bank, alongside an instruction room and spa facilities for employees.
Fast facts
- Born: 1804, Wrocław
- Died: 1854, Berlin
- Company founded: 1837
- First locomotive produced: 1840
- Total employees by 1850: 1800
- Burial site: Dorotheenstadt Cemetery
- Lasting title: Geheimer Kommerzienrat
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the 1840 locomotive?
It proved that German-built locomotives could outperform competing models, ending the necessity of importing foreign engines.
How did the company fare after Borsig's death?
His son Albert Borsig took over leadership, overseeing expansion that made the firm the largest locomotive producer in Europe by 1872.
Achievements
- Worked as entrepreneur, industrialist and mechanical engineer
