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Theophilus Van Kannel

1841 – 1919

American engineer

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About Theophilus Van Kannel

Lived 1841 – 1919 (aged 78). Theophilus Van Kannel was an American inventor and engineer, known for Revolving door.

Theophilus Van Kannel (July 1851 – December 24, 1919) was an American inventor, known for inventing the revolving door, patented on August 7, 1888.

Biography He was born in Monroe Township, Coshocton County, Ohio, USA. Van Kannel, who was recognized for his invention with the John Scott Medal by the Franklin Institute in 1889, founded the Van Kannel Revolving Door Company, which eventually was bought out by the International Steel Company in 1907. International Steel Company is the parent company of International Revolving Door Company.

He invented and owned Witching Waves, an amusement ride introduced at Luna Park, Coney Island, in 1907.

Van Kannel died at the home of his brother, Benjamin Van Kannel in Coshocton County, Ohio.

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Important facts

Birth century
Occupation
Nationality
Known for
Revolving door
Awards
National Inventors Hall of Fame

People in Theophilus Van Kannel's life

Named in this biography and alive at the same time

Contemporaries

People whose lives overlapped Theophilus Van Kannel's

Frequently asked questions

Who was Theophilus Van Kannel?

American engineer (1841–1919)

When was Theophilus Van Kannel born?

Theophilus Van Kannel was born on 21 October 1841 in Philadelphia.

When did Theophilus Van Kannel die?

Theophilus Van Kannel died on 23 December 1919 in Cincinnati.

What was Theophilus Van Kannel's occupation?

Theophilus Van Kannel was an inventor and engineer.

What was Theophilus Van Kannel known for?

Theophilus Van Kannel was known for Revolving door.

What nationality was Theophilus Van Kannel?

Theophilus Van Kannel was American.

Sources & further reading

· Wikipedia: Theophilus Van Kannel

· Wikidata: Q968851

· DBpedia: Theophilus Van Kannel

Cite this page

APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Theophilus Van Kannel. https://biography.guide/theophilus-van-kannel/

MLA: "Theophilus Van Kannel." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/theophilus-van-kannel/.

Chicago: "Theophilus Van Kannel." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/theophilus-van-kannel/.

Data last updated: 2026-09-22 · Spot an error? Report a correction.

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