About William Norris
Lived 1802 – 1867 (aged 64). William Norris was an American engineer, entrepreneur and technician.
William Norris (July 2, 1802 – January 5, 1867) was an American steam locomotive builder. He founded the Norris Locomotive Works and through this company pioneered the use of the 4-2-0 (the Norris type) locomotive type in America during the 1840s.
In 1837, William Norris was elected as a member to the American Philosophical Society.
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Important facts
Related people
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Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped William Norris's
Frequently asked questions
Who was William Norris?
American steam locomotive builder (1802-1867)
When was William Norris born?
William Norris was born on 2 July 1802 in Baltimore.
When did William Norris die?
William Norris died on 5 January 1867 in New York City.
What was William Norris's occupation?
William Norris was an engineer, entrepreneur and technician.
What nationality was William Norris?
William Norris was American.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: William Norris (locomotive builder)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). William Norris. https://biography.guide/william-norris-engineer/
MLA: "William Norris." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/william-norris-engineer/.
Chicago: "William Norris." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/william-norris-engineer/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-25 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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