Today in History: Federal Patent for Steamboat Awarded


Today in History–August 26–the Library of Congress features the awarding of a federal patent for the steamboat on this day in 1791 to two (!) men—John Fitch and James Rumsey—each who had devised different systems. Find out whose sketch of what is featured above and uncover more fascinating facts by visiting the Today in History section. Then, if you haven’t run out of steam, check out this large collection of primary sources related to Fitch, Rumsey, and the steamboat.

Fitch & Rumsey primary sources

Steamboat primary sources

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