He was also a noted inventor .
John Adams Howell ( 16 March 1840 -- 1918 ) was a rear admiral of the United States Navy , who served during the Civil War and the Spanish -- American War .
John Adams Howell was also a noted admiral .
John Adams Howell ( 16 March 1840 -- 1918 ) was a rear admiral of the United States Navy , who served during the Civil War and the Spanish -- American War .