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Today in History: Abraham Lincoln patents river boat-lifting device, sole president

5/22/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On May 22 1849, Abraham Lincoln received U.S. Patent No. 6,469 for a buoy-lifting device that used expandable bellows to raise boats over river shoals. Inspired by his own stranded trips, the invention made Lincoln the sole U.S. president ever to hold a patent.

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Story summary

On May 22 1849, Abraham Lincoln received U.S. Patent No. 6,469 for a buoy-lifting device that used expandable bellows to raise boats over river shoals. Inspired by his own stranded trips, the invention made Lincoln the sole U.S. president ever to hold a patent.