Francis Barber Ogden

Francis Barber Ogden (1783-1857) was United States consul, in Liverpool from 1829 to 1840 and then in Bristol. Ogden had a long-standing interest in steam engines and, soon after becoming consul in Liverpool, attended the Rainhill Trials where he met and befriended John Ericsson. Ogden helped finance Ericsson's researches over the next few years, while personally patenting Ericsson's inventions in the United States Ogden now introduced Ericsson to one of his business associates, Robert Stockton, who would become Ericsson's next patron and induce him to move to America. and Consul of the United States of America for this Port. Born at Boonton in the State of New Jersey, U.S.A., March 3rd 1783. Died at his Residence in this City, July 4th 1857, aged 74 years, having Served his Country during a Period of Twenty-Eight Years."