Person
Henry Voigt
clockmaker, mathematical instrument maker, machine and steam engine builder, and Chief Coiner of the first United States Mint
Henry Voigt or Henry Voight (1738–1814) is a clockmaker, mathematical instrument maker, machine and steam engine builder, and Chief Coiner of the first United States Mint.
He operates a wire mill in Reading Pennsylvania and repairs clocks and watches for Thomas Jefferson, who knows him well.
In Philadelphia he participates in the development and production of the first practical steamboat with John Fitch that in 1790 travels in a commercial operation between 1,300 and 3,000 miles at speeds estimated from 6 to 8 miles per hour.
He is credited with some of the first U.S. coin designs and participates in the 1770 production (as one of the "hands" or helpers) and 1806 repair and extension of David Rittenhouse's Orrery.