"The First Propeller Ever Built," Wood Engraving, circa 1850
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Connecticut-born entrepreneur and inventor John Fitch began building steam-powered boats in the 1780s. His first, Perseverance, was propelled by an unusual drivetrain of mechanized oars along both sides of the craft. The system was effective, but not particularly efficient. Fitch later experimented with screw propellers. He was unable to find commercial success with his designs.
Connecticut-born entrepreneur and inventor John Fitch began building steam-powered boats in the 1780s. His first, Perseverance, was propelled by an unusual drivetrain of mechanized oars along both sides of the craft. The system was effective, but not particularly efficient. Fitch later experimented with screw propellers. He was unable to find commercial success with his designs.
Artifact
Print (Visual work)
Date Made
circa 1850
Keywords
Collection Title
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
82.129.1585
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Paper (Fiber product)
Technique
Wood engraving (Process)
Color
Black-and-white (Colors)
Dimensions
Height: 3.25 in
Width: 5.125 in
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