David Rittenhouse
David Rittenhouse's home as it appeared c. 1919. From its lawn, in 1769, Rittenhouse and Franklin observed the transit of Venus. David Rittenhouse (April 8, 1732 – June 26, 1796) was a renowned American astronomer, inventor, clockmaker, mathematician, surveyor, scientific instrument craftsman and public official. Rittenhouse was a member of the American Philosophical Society and the first director of the United States Mint.