The first working Watt engine in the world
Episode description
James Watt built an experimental steam engine at Kinneil, Bo’ness (in central Scotland) – as part of a partnership with Dr John Roebuck.
But did you know that this engine eventually went to work in Birmingham at the famous Soho Manufactory?
The Manufactory was set up by businessman Matthew Boulton. Boulton teamed up with Watt after Watt’s partnership with Roebuck foundered.
Honorary Research Fellow George Demidowicz from the University of Birmingham says the Kinneil engine was the first working James Watt steam engine in the world.
It was installed in the works to support a water wheel – the only source of power at the Manufactory until the 1780s.
George spoke to us after a presentation at a recent Watt conference at the University of Birmingham.
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