Tim Leatherman Penned Memoir on Tool Empire
The local inventor will discuss his new book documenting fifty years of the iconic multi-tool at an upcoming event.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Language Learning
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Portlanders can hear from local inventor Tim Leatherman as he releases a new book chronicling the five-decade history of the Leatherman multi-tool. Powell's City of Books will host the event to mark the memoir's launch.
Why it matters
The book serves as both a personal legacy for Leatherman's family and a historical record of the multi-tool's development from a pocketknife modification. It offers insight into the engineering journey of a product that became a global staple.
The memoir chronicles 50 years of product development, spanning the time since Leatherman first conceived of the tool in 1975. The exact attendance capacity for the upcoming author event has not been specified.
The players
Tim Leatherman
The local inventor known for creating the Leatherman multi-tool.
Powell's City of Books
The Portland bookstore hosting the upcoming event for the memoir.
Oregon State University
The alma mater of Tim Leatherman where he earned his degree in mechanical engineering.
The details
Tim Leatherman, an Oregon State University mechanical engineering graduate, wrote the book to preserve his life story for his grandsons while documenting customer experiences. The memoir details how he first conceived the multi-tool concept while traveling in Europe. Powell's City of Books will host an event featuring the inventor, offering residents a chance to hear his history firsthand.
Timeline
1970: Tim Leatherman graduated from Oregon State University.
1975: Leatherman conceived the idea for his multi-tool.
1999: Leatherman was inducted into the OSU Academy of Distinguished Engineers.
October 6, 2026: The book goes on sale.
Beyond the Bridges
This memoir serves as a detailed chronicle of the innovation career that led to Tim Leatherman's 1999 induction into the OSU Academy of Distinguished Engineers. It marks a departure from purely technical documentation by incorporating personal advice and customer stories.
Portlanders interested in local innovation history can purchase the book starting October 6, 2026. Residents should check the store schedule for the specific date and time of the upcoming author event at the downtown location.
The takeaway
Readers can gain insight into the evolution of local engineering by reviewing the personal history of one of the city's most recognizable inventions. Keep an eye on the official event calendar for the exact date and time of the author appearance at Powell's City of Books.
Further reading
For more information on local intellectual and literary culture, see Language Learning.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily Barometer.
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