William Symington

William Symington (1764–1831) was a Scottish engineer and inventor during the Georgian era. He is most well known as the builder of the first practical steamboat, the Charlotte Dundas. The engine has been described as "without doubt the most compact and efficient marine steam engine up to that time" and its design would influence later steamboat and steamship engine designs.

Early life Symington was born in Leadhills, South Lanarkshire, Scotland, to a family he described as being "respectable but not wealthy." His father worked as a practical mechanic at the Leadhills mines.

Although his parents intended for him to enter the ministry, he intended to use his good education to make a career as an engineer.

He was inducted into the Scottish Engineering Hall of Fame in 2023.