James Nasmyth invented the steam hammer, one of the integral contributions to the Industrial Revolution in Europe.

Nasmyth was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, on August 19, 1808, the son of an artist. He left school at age twelve to make model engines and other mechanical devices. At nineteen he built a full-size steam carriage which performed with acclaim. When he was twenty-one, Nasmyth accompanied his father on a trip to London, England, where he met machinist and engineer Henry Maudslay. During the next two years, Nasmyth studied and worked under Maudslay, learning from him as well as making valuable contributions, such as designing hexagonal-headed nuts and a flexible shaft of coiled spring steel for drilling holes in awkward places.

In 1834, Nasmyth opened his own shop in Manchester, England, later moving to a foundry at Patricraft, England, where he became known for his craftsmanship and steam-powered tools. It was also here...