Historical Energy Events

The beginning of electricity

May 24, 1544

English scientist William Gilbert studies magnetism and the corresponding attraction of rubbed amber and various rubbed jewels. He modifies the Greek and Latin terms for amber to produce the English word electric as a noun describing a material that behaved like amber.

First steam boat

Feb 24, 1664

Thomas Newcomen in collaboration with Thomas Savery build the first practical steam engine to use a piston and cylinder, bringing the steam engine out of the lab. It drives a pump in a mine and produces about 5.5 horsepower.

Ben Franklin discovers energy

May 17, 1747

Benjamin Franklin describes in a letter his discovery that a pointed conductor can draw off electric charge from a charge body. This is the basis for Franklin's lightning rod, even before Franklin proves the connection between electricity and lightning.

First Match

Feb 17, 1826

The match is first discovered by Robert Boyle who rubbed phosphorus and sulfur together.

First internal combustion engine

Apr 7, 1826

Captain Samuel Morey of Oxford, N.H., received a patent for an internal-combustion engine. The engine had 2 cylinders 180- degree cranks, poppet valves, a carburetor, an electric spark, and a water cooling device. The engine was powered by spirits of turpentine vapor.

First enclosed water turbine

May 9, 1827

Benoit Fourneyron builds the first enclosed water turbine of modern design. It develops 6 horsepower.

Steam locomotive

Sep 15, 1830

George Stephenson's steam locomotive The Rocket is chosen over three competitors to open the Liverpool to Manchester railway in England. This is considered the start of the railroad boom.

Electrical Relay

Mar 5, 1835

Joseph Henry invents the electrical relay, which enables a current to travel long distances from its origin.

Daniell cell

Feb 19, 1836

John Frederic Daniell invents the Daniell cell, the first reliable source of electric current. It uses interaction of copper and zinc.

Velcoipede

Jun 2, 1839

Kirkpatrick MacMillan, in Scotland, develops a bicycle powered by treadles and driving rods that does not require the rider's feet to touch the ground. It is called a velocipede.