Patent for cotton spinningIn 1791, a U.S. patent for spinning cotton by water power was issued to William Pollard of Philadelphia. In his petition, Pollard had stressed usefulness and an important economic value to the U.S., rather than novelty. Actual details of any machine were vague and secondary his claims being of deserving character. Pollard was one of three British immigrants that sought exclusive rights to introduce into America cotton spinning machines based on those devised by Richard Arkwright in England. By Jun 1791, Pollard's factory was in full operation, and is said to be the first water frame built in that city. However, it was not successful, and for that reason may have in effect retarded the growth of the industry in Philadelphia.« |
