Robert Fulton 1765-1815
Fulton Township, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
The artist turned inventor is credited with building the first successful boat propelled by a steam engine. North River Steamboat (known as Clermont), in 1807. In his early years, he made his living as a painter in Philadelphia and then in Europe, where he also began experimenting in mechanics. Fulton's other innovations include an early submarine called Nautilus, floating mines, and various improvements to canal design and technology. He was born nearby.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Robert Fulton, born in this corner of Lancaster County in 1765, first made his way as a portrait painter in Philadelphia and Europe before turning his restless mind to machines. In 1807 his steamboat—the North River Steamboat, remembered as the Clermont—proved that steam could reliably move a vessel against the current. He also experimented with an early submarine, the Nautilus, floating mines, and improvements to canals.
Why it matters
Fulton's steamboat opened America's rivers to fast, dependable travel and commerce, helping knit a sprawling young nation together and launch the age of steam transportation.
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Related people
- · Robert Fulton
Related events
- · First successful steamboat voyage (1807)
Themes & tags
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