Percy Shaw: The Man Behind the Cat’s Eyes

Percy Shaw, born on April 15, 1890, was an innovative Englishman best known for inventing the reflective road stud, commonly known as “cat’s eyes.” This invention significantly contributed to road safety worldwide, particularly aiding drivers during poor visibility conditions, especially at night.

Childhood of Percy Shaw

Growing up in Halifax, West Yorkshire, Percy Shaw’s early life was marked by his keen observation of the challenges faced by drivers on foggy roads. His upbringing in this region played a crucial role in nurturing his inventive spirit, which would later lead to his groundbreaking work.

Percy Shaw in His Youth

From a young age, Percy demonstrated an acute sense of curiosity. He famously noticed how a cat’s eyes would reflect light in the dark, an observation that would eventually inspire his revolutionary invention. His foresight and determination set him apart from an early age.

Who Invented the Cat’s Eyes?

While primitive versions of road reflectors existed, it was Percy Shaw who patented and popularized the “cat’s eyes” in 1934. His design, featuring two pairs of reflective glass spheres set into a white rubber dome and mounted in a cast-iron housing, dramatically improved road safety and became a standard feature on roads worldwide.

Percy Shaw and Halifax

Halifax, West Yorkshire, wasn’t just Shaw’s birthplace but also his lifelong home and the backdrop for his invention. The challenging driving conditions of the area, with its frequent fog and winding roads, played a crucial role in inspiring the development of the cat’s eyes.

Percy Shaw Car Park in Huddersfield

Percy Shaw’s influence extends beyond his invention. In recognition of his contributions, there is a car park named after him in Huddersfield, a nearby town. The Percy Shaw Car Park serves as a lasting tribute to the impact he made on road safety.

Percy Shaw House

In Boothtown, Halifax, the Percy Shaw House stands as a reminder of this great inventor’s legacy. This house, where Shaw spent most of his life, symbolizes his journey from observing the reflective eyes of a cat to changing the world of road safety.

In Conclusion

Percy Shaw’s invention of the “cat’s eyes” highlights the power of observation and determination. His dedication to improving road safety can inspire the Wirral community, emphasizing the importance of innovation and care for one another. As we continue our journey in Wirral, let’s carry forward Percy’s spirit and recognize the profound impact one individual can have on the broader community.

Percy Shaw: The Visionary Behind Road Safety

• Invention of Cat’s Eyes: Percy Shaw’s most famous invention, the Cat’s Eye, revolutionized road safety. Designed to reflect headlights in low visibility conditions, it has saved countless lives by guiding motorists on foggy and rainy nights.
• Entrepreneurial Endeavor: From a simple idea, Shaw built a successful company, Reflecting Roadstuds Ltd., which manufactured and distributed Cat’s Eyes globally. This endeavor showcased his prowess as an entrepreneur beyond just being an inventor.
• Recognition and Awards: For his immense contribution to road safety, Shaw received the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1965. His innovation was not only celebrated in the UK but also recognized globally for its impact.
• Legacy in Halifax and Huddersfield: Shaw’s influence can be felt in the towns of Halifax and Huddersfield, with landmarks such as the Percy Shaw Car Park in Huddersfield. These tributes stand as testaments to his lasting legacy in the region.
• Personal Quirks and Stories: Shaw was known for his unique character and the fascinating stories from his life. Whether it was enjoying a drink at his local pub or the legendary tale behind his invention’s inspiration, Shaw’s life was filled with interesting anecdotes.