Robert Napier (1791-1876), Scottish engineer and founder of the Clyde shipbuilding industry in Glasgow. After serving as an apprentice to his blacksmith father, Napier set up his own business in 1815. By 1823 he was building marine steam engines. In 1827, two ships with his engines won a steamboat race and orders increased throughout the 1830s. In 1843 he built his first ship, the Vanguard, one of the earliest iron-hulled vessels. He went on to build over 300 ships. Many of his workforce eventually left to set up their own businesses along the River Clyde, making it one of the world's great shipbuilding areas. This engraving is by William G. Jackman (fl.1841-1860).