Inventor Thomas Edison's boyhood is chronicled and shows him as a lad whose early inventions and scientific experiments usually end up causing disastrous results. As a result, the towns folk all think Tom is crazy, and creating a strained relationship between Tom and his father. Tom's only solace is his understanding mother who believes he's headed to do great things.
Mickey Rooney
as Thomas Alva 'Tom' Edison
George Bancroft
as Samuel 'Sam' Edison
Fay Bainter
as Mrs. Samuel 'Nancy' Edison
Virginia Weidler
as Tannie Edison
Eugene Pallette
as Mr. Nelson
Victor Kilian
as Mr. Dingle
Bobby Jordan
as Joe 'Joey' Dingle
Lloyd Corrigan
as Dr. Pender
John Kellogg
as Bill Edison
Clem Bevans
as Mr. Waddell
Eily Malyon
as Miss Lavina Howard, School Teacher
Harry Shannon
as Army Captain Brackett
