03/31/2026
As America expanded across the vast continent, inventions became essential. These innovations spanned the miles of rugged frontiers, bringing necessary information, supplies,
and order to the wild territory. Although Robert Fulton did not invent the steamboat, as William Henry had created the first one in 1763, which promptly sank, he is
often referred to as the father of steam navigation. Interestingly, Fulton began his career as an artist, exhibiting his work at the Royal Gallery in London, before
shifting his focus to more practical endeavors, such as designing submarines, or diving boats. He designed the most practical submarine, called the Nautilus, for both the French and British
Navies, and even created some of the first torpedoes, successfully destroying a 300-ton ship in a field test for Napoleon Bonaparte. One of his most ambitious ideas
was building a steamboat, and after years of refining his designs and building models, Fulton finally constructed his ship, THE NORTH RIVER STEAMBOAT, later renamed the Clermont. The vessel featured dual paddle wheels, luxurious
sleeping compartments, and a saloon. Although many ridiculed his flat-bottomed boat design, labeling it “Fulton's Folly,” the inventor ultimately succeeded. His
ship became a thriving business, running up and down the Hudson River, and before long, numerous steamships transported people and supplies on nearly every river in America.
