Richard Trevithick (1771-1833)
This Cornish mining engineer’s inventions revolutionised deep-shaft mining - he pioneered the use of high-pressure steam, and increased the efficiency of the engines used to pump water from the lower levels of Cornwall's tin and copper mines. His ideas also included the first successful self-powered road vehicle, and a steam railway engine. Thus Trevithick is commonly acknowledged as the inventor of the steam locomotive for railways.
Places to visit
Head down to Camborne on the last Saturday in April and join in the fun and festivities as the town celebrates its hero.
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