John Nepomuk Maelzel

(1772 - 1838)

German-born inventor and showman; exhibited nearby at Maelzel's Hall, 1826-1831, assisted by Wm. Schlumberger. His Automaton Chess Player (The Turk) was famous for games with Franklin & Napoleon. He patented a metronome; made hearing aids for Beethoven.

Marker is at the intersection of 5th Street and St. James Place, on the left when traveling north on 5th Street.