"Steam Boat Invented by John Fitch," Copperplate Engraving, circa 1818
01
Artifact Overview
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 Details
Artifact
Print (Visual work)
Date Made
circa 1818
Subject Date
1786-1787
Creator Notes
Copied from an engraving published in the Columbian Magazine for December 1786.
Collection Title
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
82.129.1575
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Paper (Fiber product)
Technique
Copper engraving (Printing process)
Color
Black-and-white (Colors)
Dimensions
Height: 6.25 in
Width: 9 in
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