Rufus Porter

Rufus Porter
Rufus Porter (1792–1884) was an American painter, inventor, and writer best known for founding "Scientific American" magazine in 1845. He was a self-taught artist, famous for his murals and miniatures, as well as an inventor with patents for various innovations, including a wind-powered flying machine. Porter's book "A Select Collection of Valuable and Curious Arts, and Interesting Experiments" (1825) showcased his interest in science and technology, offering practical advice on topics ranging from painting to chemistry. His contributions bridged art, science, and invention during the early 19th century in America.

Author's Books:


The Viol Seraphine. Introduction.--The clear tones of a viol or bass viol are generally admitted to be more melodious than those produced by other kinds of instruments, and many have expressed a desire to see an instrument so constructed as to be played with keys, like the organ or piano forte, and give the tones of the violin. This is the character of the instrument here introduced. It is elegant in... more...

The New Roman Road. [The present Pope has given his consent to build railroads in his dominions, which the former Pope was averse to. The following lines are predicated on his consent.]Ancient Romans, ancient Romans—Cato, Scipio Africanus,Ye whose fame's eclips'd by no man's,Publius Æmilianus,Sylla, Marius, Pompey, Cæsar,Fabius, dilatory teaser,Coriolanus, and ye GracchiWho gave so... more...