23 January 1720: Mr Robertson demonstrates his ultra-compact inflatable boat on the Aire at Leeds
John Mayhall. 1860. The Annals and History of Leeds, and Other Places in the County of York. Leeds: Joseph Johnson. Get it:
.Excerpt
Mr Robertson, in the presence of the magistrates of Leeds, and about 5,000 spectators, swam upon the river Aire in his leathern boat, which, before he inflated it with a pair of bellows, was so small and pliable, as to be folded up in a handkerchief, if not put into the pocket. Mr Robertson was born in France, of Scotch parents.
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Mr. Robertson, in the presence of the magistrates of Leeds, and about 5,000 spectators, swam upon the river Aire in his leathern boat, which, before he inflated it with a pair of bellows, was so small and pliable, as to be folded up in a handkerchief, if not put into the pocket. Mr. Robertson was born in France, of Scotch parents.
62 words.
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