Oliver Evans was an American inventor, engineer, and businessman born in rural Delaware and later rooted commercially in Philadelphia. He was one of the first Americans to build steam engines and was an advocate of high-pressure steam. A pioneer in the fields of automation, materials handling and steam power, Evans was one of the most prolific and influential inventors in the early years of the United States. He left behind a long series of accomplishments, most notably designing and building the first fully automated industrial process, the first high-pressure steam engine, first vapor compression refrigeration and the first amphibious vehicle and American automobile.
Oliver Evans, American inventor, engineer and businessman (died 1819)
On September 13, in the year 1755, Oliver Evans, American inventor, engineer and businessman (died 1819). This event is recorded as a Notable Births event in the history of September 13, one of 462 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including Oliver Evans. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on September 13, 1755 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Births event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 29 August 2026.
On This Date in History 462
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
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