science · 05 February 1817 · 207 years ago
In 1817, the first U.S. gas company was incorporated in Baltimore, Md. Rembrandt Peale with others was permitted by a city ordinance passed in Jun 1816 to manufacture and distribute coal gas “to provide for more effectually lighting in the streets, squares, lanes and alleys of the city of Baltimore.” The incorporators included William Gwynn, who writing as editor of the Baltimore Gazette was able to build public support. The Gas Light Company of Baltimore lighted the first street on 7 Feb 1817. Peale had first used gas to light his Peale's Museum, from which he envisioned the benefits of a company to make gas lighting to city businesses and residences.
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