Charles E. Alden

Charles Edward Alden

Early life and career Born in Charlestown, Massachusetts on September 14, 1864, Alden was the son of Maria (née Lewis) and John Alden. He attended Fairhaven High School, graduating in 1877. Some years later, he moved to New York and studied with sculptor Louis Saint-Gaudens.

In 1907, Alden invented and tested a wireless remote-controlled boat off the coast of Martha's Vineyard. This boat was said to have “lifted its own anchor, blows its own whistle, signals, fires a gun and steers” all while the operator is controlling it on shore.

Death Alden died on June 30, 1923, aged 58, in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood. A service was conducted three days later for family and friends at Waterman's Chapel, located in Kenmore Square.