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What is the Oldest Electric Motor?

Published in Electric Motor History 1 min read

The oldest electric motor, recognized for its practical utility and sufficient power to perform a task, was invented by Thomas Davenport of Vermont in 1834.

Thomas Davenport's Pioneering Invention

In 1834, Thomas Davenport made history by creating what is considered the first official battery-powered electric motor. This invention was groundbreaking because it was the first electric motor capable of generating enough power to accomplish a practical task.

Key aspects of Davenport's revolutionary motor include:

  • Year of Invention: 1834
  • Inventor: Thomas Davenport
  • Power Source: It was a battery-powered design, making it a significant step in the development of electric machinery.
  • Practical Application: Demonstrating its practical capabilities, Davenport's motor was successfully used to power a small-scale printing press, showcasing its potential beyond mere theoretical demonstration.

This invention marked a pivotal moment in the history of electrical engineering, laying the groundwork for the widespread adoption and development of electric motors that power countless devices today.