James Renwick

James Renwick (30 May 1790 – 12 January 1863), was an English-American scientist and engineer.

Early life Renwick was born in Liverpool, England, on 30 May 1790. He was the son of Jane Jeffrey Renwick (1773–1850) and William Renwick (1769–1808). His paternal grandfather was James Renwick (1743–1803). In 1863, he was elected an Associate Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Morris Canal Renwick was responsible for the idea and initial design of the inclined planes on the Morris Canal. The design of these planes were later copied for the Elbląg Canal in Poland.

Personal life Renwick married in 1816 Margaret Anne Brevoort (1791–1868), from a wealthy and socially prominent New York family. Together, they were the parents of:

Henry Brevoort Renwick (1817–1895), who was a mechanical engineer and inspector of steamboat engines. James Renwick Jr. (1818–1895), was a noted Gothic Revival architect, designer of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York and the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, D.C., among many other buildings. Edward S. Renwick (1823–1912), who was a mechanical engineer, inventor and patent expert. Laura Renwick (1826–1879).

Renwick died in New York City on 12 January 1863.