Thursday 14th February 1793
Born on this day, Goldsworthy Gurney. Amongst many accomplishments, the Cornishman developed the oxy-hydrogen blowpipe, and later applied its principles to a novel form of illumination, the Bude light. He also developed a series of early steam-powered road vehicles; and laid claim, still discussed and disputed today, to the blastpipe, a key component in the success of steam locomotives, engines, and other coal-fired systems.