Neil Arnott


1788 - 1874

Inventor, natural philosopher and physician. Arnott was born in Arbroath. He twice travelled to China acting as a surgeon in the service of the East India Company (1807 and 1810). He invented a smokeless and highly-efficient stove called Arnott's Stove and a ventilating chimney-valve. He also invented the water-bed (1832), championing its therapeutic value through improved patient comfort and preventing bed-sores. This was later developed into a water-filled chair intended to prevent sea-sickness.

His publications included a multi-volume Elements of Physics or Natural Philosophy, which proved popular in the 1820s and 30s, and a treatise on heating and ventilation.


Use the tabs on the right of this page to see other parts of this entry arrow

If you have found this information useful please consider making
a donation to help maintain and improve this resource. More info...

By using our site you agree to accept cookies, which help us serve you better