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Steamboat Builders

This radio episode tells three different stories about men who built steamboats. First, John Fitch comes up with the idea for the steamboat. Next, Robert Fulton figures out how to make it work in real life. Finally, Eliphalet Nott creates an engine that burns anthracite coal. The show covers John Fitch's invention of the steamboat, then Robert Fulton's practical improvements to it, and lastly Eliphalet Nott's work with the anthracite engine.

Cavalcade of America is an anthology drama series that was sponsored by the DuPont Company, although it occasionally presented musicals, such as an adaptation of Show Boat, and condensed biographies of popular composers. It was initially broadcast on radio from 1935 to 1953, and on television from 1952 to 1957. Originally on CBS Radio, the series pioneered the use of anthology drama for company audio advertising. The series moved to the NBC Red Network, NBC Blue network, and NBC Radio Network.

Wikipedia. CC BY-SA 4.0. Updated Jul 17, 2026.

“Steamboat Builders.” Cavalcade of America. Radio broadcast, June 24, 1936.

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