Evans, Oliver, 1755-1819

Born near Newport, Del., Evans received little formal education but taught himself mechanics and mathematics, devoting his life to inventing machines. In 1787 he received a patent from Delaware for a system that automated flour milling; published The Young Mill-Wright & Miller's Guide in 1795; and devoted many years to developing the steam engine, including a steam boat launched in 1805. Evans and his family moved to Philadelphia in 1793 where he remained.

From the description of Oliver Evans papers, 1789-1956. (Historical Society of Delaware). WorldCat record id: 71014805

Oliver Evans (1755-1819) was perhaps the most talented of Philadelphia's early 19th century mechanicians. He produced two major innovations, the automated flour mill, the first fully automated system of continuous production, and the high-pressure, non-condensing steam engine. He also experimented with four-cycle mechanical refrigeration, central heating, a steam wagon, a machine gun, and a perpetual baking oven. He was the author of two early and influential technical textbooks, THE YOUNG MILLWRIGHT AND MILLER'S GUIDE (1795) and THE ABORTION OF THE YOUNG STEAM ENGINEER'S GUIDE.

From the description of ALS : to Joseph Whipple, 1796 Aug 22. (Hagley Museum & Library). WorldCat record id: 122292465