Who Designed America’s First Submarine?
The development of the submarine has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. In the 17th and 18th centuries, various inventors and naval architects attempted to build vessels that could operate underwater, but their designs were often flawed or unsuccessful. One of the most important and influential figures in the early history of submarine development is David Bushnell, an American inventor who designed and built the Turtle, America’s first submarine.
David Bushnell’s Background and Early Life
David Bushnell was born in 1740 in Fairfield, Connecticut. His father was a farmer, and David grew up in a farming community. From a young age, Bushnell demonstrated a keen interest in inventing and mechanical engineering, which would serve him well in his later endeavors.
The Turtle: The First American Submarine
During the American Revolutionary War, Bushnell was eager to contribute to the war effort and came up with a bold idea – to create a submarine that could lift anchors and mines from enemy ships. With the support of Benjamin Tallmadge, an American intelligence officer, and the financial backing of Colonel Henry Knox, the Turtle was born.
The Turtle was a cylindrical, hand-powered submarine about 7.5 feet long and 3 feet in diameter. It had a single hull made of white oak, with wooden props and a hand-powered crank. The submarine’s hull was reinforced with heavy planks to withstand pressure. The Turtle’s unique design feature was the removal of ballast air to make it nearly weightless and able to operate underwater.
Building and Testing the Turtle
Between 1775 and 1777, Bushnell worked tirelessly to construct the Turtle in a wooden workshop in Kingsbridge, New York. He faced numerous challenges, including the complexity of the design, financial difficulties, and the high demand for labor and resources.
On the night of September 6, 1776, the Turtle set out on its first trial run, piloted by Ezra Lee, a brave American volunteer. Unfortunately, Lee struggled to maneuver the underwater vessel, and the dive ended in a failed attempt to attach an explosive to a British warship. However, this initial setback did not deter Bushnell or his team.
Notable Missions of the Turtle
Despite technical difficulties and limitations, the Turtle made several more daring missions during the Revolutionary War:
• September 1776: Attacking the HMS Eagle off Manhattan Island, but without success.
• October 1776: Attempting to attach an explosive charge to the HMS Cerberus, a British flagship anchored in the Hudson River. Although unsuccessful, this mission was the Turtle’s closest approach to completing its intended purpose.
Legacy and Impact of the Turtle
Although the Turtle was not without its flaws, it proved the concept of a working submarine and laid the foundation for future developments. This achievement was recognized by contemporary critics, including Sir Francis Bacon, who in his book "New Atlantis," praised Bushnell for his innovative thinking.
After the war, Bushnell disappeared from the public record, and little is known about his life after the American Revolution. However, his contribution to American innovation and ingenuity remained influential, inspiring future submarine builders and pioneers.
A Timeline of the Turtle’s Development
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Development of the Turtle begins | 1775 |
| First trial run | September 6, 1776 |
| Notable mission against the HMS Eagle | September 1776 |
| Attempt to attack the HMS Cerberus | October 1776 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, David Bushnell designed and built the Turtle, America’s first submarine, during the American Revolutionary War. While it faced technical challenges and was not entirely successful in its missions, the Turtle’s legacy as the world’s first practical submersible remains significant. Bushnell’s innovative designs, perseverance, and innovative spirit paved the way for the development of modern submarines and continue to inspire modern innovators today.
- Bushnell’s determination and passion for building a submarine exemplify his resourcefulness and creativity as an inventor.
- The Turtle may have been the first functional submersible, but its impact extended beyond immediate practical applications. It influenced future inventors, engineers, and naval architects, and the concept of underwater navigation was forever changed.
Ultimately, the story of David Bushnell and the Turtle demonstrates that even in the face of adversity and uncertainty, a single individual can design, build, and contribute to history through his innovative thinking and relentless pursuit of progress.
