Thomas Steers was an English engineer who lived from 1671 to 1750. He is best known for his work as a canal engineer and was instrumental in the development of early canals in England.
In 1712, Steers was hired by the Bridgewater Trustees to design and build the Bridgewater Canal, which was one of the first canals in England to be built without following an existing watercourse. The canal was used to transport coal from the Duke of Bridgewater's mines to Manchester and was a major success, helping to spur the growth of the Industrial Revolution in England.
Steers also worked on the construction of the Sankey Canal, which was built to transport coal from St Helens to Liverpool, and the Douglas Navigation, which connected the River Mersey to Wigan. He was also involved in the construction of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.
Steers was a pioneer in the field of canal engineering and his innovative designs helped to revolutionise transportation in England during the 18th century. He is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of canal engineering.
These engineers played a significant role in the development of the canal system in Britain during the Industrial Revolution. Their innovations helped to transform transportation and infrastructure in the country.