![]() In 1797, he traveled to Paris to continue his research on canal construction, but soon became intrigued with the idea of building "plunging boat," a precursor to the modern submarine. His work with inland waterways culminated in a publication in 1796, entitled Treatise on the Improvement of Canal Navigation. ![]() He later developed plans for cast iron aqueducts and invented a mechanical dredge to speed the construction of canals. He was granted an English patent in 1794 for his first invention ? a double inclined plane system for hauling canal boats over difficult terrain. Still living in England, he focused his creativity on current engineering challenges and became involved in a project to design a canal system to replace the conventional locks that were in use at the time. Fulton met with limited success as a painter and the public's response to his work was disappointing.ĭuring this period, England was in the midst of its industrial revolution and Fulton was impressed with the many engineering feats that were being accomplished, particularly in the areas of canals, mines, bridges, roads and factories. At the age of 21, Fulton traveled to London to study painting with family friend Benjamin West, who was one of the leading American painters living in England. As a teenager, his interests turned to art and at the age of 18 he moved to Philadelphia, where he was able to support himself through sales of portraits and technical drawings. Some legends say he built roman candles, rockets, and a hand-propelled paddle wheelboat. At an early age, he was known to enjoy building mechanical devices. ![]() Overcoming several failures early in his career, American engineer and inventor Robert Fulton (1765 – 1815) is credited with developing the first successful commercial steamboat in the early1800s.įulton was born near Lancaster, PA, on November 14, 1765. ![]()
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