Karl Benz (of Mercedes Benz) received the first patent for a gas-fueled car on January 29, 1886, and he is generally credited with inventing the internal combustion engine.

On August 25, 1914, a young man from Rolla received a patent for an invention that improved on Benz’s engine. The Rolla Star reported Ainer W. Juntunen “has secured a patent for a device for priming internal combustion engines... The object of the invention is to enable the operator of an internal combustion engine to prime the cylinders without removing the hood from the engine or even leaving his seat. The apparatus is simple and economical in construction and can be sold at a low price. Owners and drivers of automobiles will readily see the value of the device. The inventor is only seventeen years of age.”

Source: Hansboro News. 25 Sept, 1914.

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