Hubbry Logo
Discover Hubs
Create Hub
search buttonadd
Sign in
Henrietta Vansittart
Henrietta Vansittart
Comunity Hub
IntroIntro
starTalks
arrow-down
MediaMedia
arrow-down
SavesSaves
ChronicleChronicle
arrow-down
TimelinesTimelines
arrow-down
ArticlesArticles
starMore
arrow-down
addSign in
add
Sign in
Talks
generalgeneral
Pages talks
arrow-right

Media Collections

English engineer and inventor (1833–1883)

From Wikipedia

Collect and organize photos and videos into themed media collections.

Main milestones

Henrietta Vansittart, born Henrietta Lowe, was a remarkable 19th-century English engineer and inventor who defied societal norms to pursue her passion for marine engineering. Her most notable achievement was the Lowe-Vansittart propeller, a significant innovation in screw propeller design. This timeline highlights key moments in her life, illustrating her journey from birth to her untimely death and the enduring impact of her work.
Birth of Henrietta Lowe
1833
Henrietta Lowe was born in England, the year that marked the beginning of the Second Industrial Revolution. Details of her early life and family background remain somewhat scarce, but her future accomplishments clearly demonstrate an upbringing that, in some way, fostered an inquisitive mind and a drive to excel in a field largely dominated by men.
Marriage to Captain Henry Vansittart
Circa 1855
Henrietta married Captain Henry Vansittart, a connection that likely exposed her to the world of maritime technology and sparked her interest in ship propulsion. His experience and possible influence were crucial in directing her intellect toward the technical problems of screw propeller design and efficiency in maritime technology.
Development of the Lowe-Vansittart Propeller Concept
1860s
During the 1860s, Henrietta began her work on screw propeller design. The design was innovative in its elliptical and increasing pitch; this meant it would be more efficient than other propellers currently in use. This was a time of intense innovation in marine technology, and Henrietta Vansittart sought to improve on existing designs.
Patent Granted for the Lowe-Vansittart Propeller
1868
Henrietta Vansittart was granted a patent for her screw propeller design, officially titled the Lowe-Vansittart propeller. This was a significant achievement, demonstrating her technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit in a male-dominated field. The patent validated her design and offered her some level of protection for her invention.
The Lowe-Vansittart Propeller Tested and Adopted by the Royal Navy
1869
The Lowe-Vansittart propeller gained significant recognition when it was adopted for use by the Royal Navy in 1869. This was a major endorsement of its efficiency and effectiveness, proving that it was more efficient than conventional propellers. It was tested on HMS Dwarf, and results indicated that it provided better fuel economy.
Promotion and Commercialization Efforts
Late 1860s - Early 1880s
Following the adoption by the Royal Navy, Henrietta actively promoted her propeller to other shipping companies and navies. It is known that she traveled to different locations to explain the benefits and technical advantages that the propeller offered. This period was essential in the broader adoption of her technology.
Death of Henrietta Vansittart
8 February 1883
Henrietta Vansittart passed away on February 8, 1883. While the precise cause of her death is not widely known, her contributions to marine engineering and her pioneering spirit have solidified her place in the history of invention. Although her life was relatively short, she was able to leave a great impact with the design of her propeller.

Other Themed Timelines

Early Life and Family TimelineEarly Life and Family TimelineEngineering and Invention TimelineEngineering and Invention TimelineLater Life and Death TimelineLater Life and Death TimelineMarriage and Personal Life TimelineMarriage and Personal Life TimelineRecognition and Legacy TimelineRecognition and Legacy TimelineRoyal Navy and Naval Technology TimelineRoyal Navy and Naval Technology TimelineSocial Context and Gender Roles TimelineSocial Context and Gender Roles Timeline