Greek demigod, inventor of the wagon

Philomelus

Philomelus is a demigod of Greek mythology, son of Demeter and Iasion, credited with inventing the wagon. His story explains why he is placed among the stars as the Herdsman and is linked to the beginnings of farming.

The myth

According to the tradition, Demeter lay with Iasion, son of Tuscus, and their children were Philomelus and Plutus. Hermippus and the Cretan writer Petelides recorded the tale, and some accounts say Iasion was struck by lightning for this union.

Plutus was very rich but would share none of his wealth with his brother. Driven by need, Philomelus bought two oxen, invented the wagon and made a living ploughing and farming his fields. His mother, impressed by his invention, set him among the stars as the Herdsman. His son Parias gave his name to the town of Parion and its people, the Parians.

Legacy

In the sky, his story is tied to the constellation Boötes, though some traditions link the figure with Ursa Major.

Ancient sources: The ancient references come mainly from Hermippus and Petelides, who describe his birth and his family.