The Juliana begins operation as the first steam-powered ferry in New York harbor.

John Stevens (inventor, born 1749)

American lawyer, engineer and inventor (1749–1838)

Col. John Stevens, III was an American lawyer, engineer, and inventor who constructed the first U.S. steam locomotive, first steam-powered ferry, and first U.S. commercial ferry service from his estate in Hoboken. He was influential in the creation of U.S. patent law.