Jesse W. Reno (1861–1947) invented the first working escalator in 1891 (patented March 15 1892) used at the Old Iron Pier, Coney Island, New York City. His invention was referred to as the "inclined elevator." An earlier escalator machine, termed "revolving stairs" by its inventor Nathan Ames, was patented March 9, 1859, but was never built.

Reno was born in 1861 in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, near Leavenworth, Kansas. He was the son of American Civil War notable Jesse L. Reno. He graduated from Lehigh University in 1883 with an engineering degree.

Jesse W. Reno is the inventor of the escalator. It became known as a novelty ride at Coney Island.

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