German inventor Werner von Siemens created the first electric elevator in 1880. Alexander Miles patented his electric elevator in 1887.

When were elevators first used in buildings?

In the 17th century, prototypes of elevators were installed in the palace buildings of England and France. Louis XV of France had a so-called 'flying chair' built for one of his mistresses at the Chateau de Versailles in 1743.

When did the elevator become popular?

Elevators became more common in the mid-1800s during the Industrial Revolution when they transported freight in factories and mines. These elevators were often based on the hydraulic system. A piston inside a cylinder used pressure from water or oil to raise and lower the car.