Astronomer, Inventor. Pioneering the science of Astronomy, he built the first telescope in the United States, introduced cross-hairs on telescope lenses, and constructed orreries (models of planetary motion). During the Revolution, he served on the Council of Safety and in the Pennsylvania Constitution convention. Served as first director of the United States Mint from 1792 to 1795. In 1796 he worked on surveys and commissions that defined the boundaries of the states of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and Massachusetts. He taught at the University of Pennsylvania from 1779 to 1782. Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square is named for him.
Astronomer, Inventor. Pioneering the science of Astronomy, he built the first telescope in the United States, introduced cross-hairs on telescope lenses, and constructed orreries (models of planetary motion). During the Revolution, he served on the Council of Safety and in the Pennsylvania Constitution convention. Served as first director of the United States Mint from 1792 to 1795. In 1796 he worked on surveys and commissions that defined the boundaries of the states of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and Massachusetts. He taught at the University of Pennsylvania from 1779 to 1782. Philadelphia's Rittenhouse Square is named for him.
Bio by: RPD2
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