John Murphy was a prominent businessman .
Businessman 's 's accomplishments included inventing and patenting in partnership with another individual a horse - powered wheel for use on East River ferries , which enabled them to change direction for round trips without having to turn around .
John Murphy was a prominent businessman , and his accomplishments included inventing and patenting in partnership with another individual a horse - powered wheel for use on East River ferries , which enabled them to change direction for round trips without having to turn around .