The washing machine's invention began with hand-operated devices in the 1850s, with James King's 1851 drum-based design considered a key early model, followed by Hamilton Smith's rotary version in 1858. The first electric washing machine, "Thor," was invented by Alva J. Fisher in 1908. 

Here's a more detailed look at the washing machine's evolution:

Early Hand-Operated Machines (1850s):

The earliest washing machines were hand-operated, consisting of a large wooden tub with a hand crank. 

James King's 1851 drum-based design used water pressure to agitate clothes and remove dirt. 

Hamilton Smith patented a rotary version in 1858. 

The Rise of Electric Washing Machines (Early 1900s):

Alva J. Fisher is often credited with inventing the first electric washing machine, the "Thor," in 1908. 

Electric washing machines were advertised and discussed in newspapers as early as 1904. 

The first electric washing machine patented by Alva J. Fisher was dubbed “Thor.” 

Continued Development and Automation:

The first domestic automatic washing machine was introduced in 1937 by Bendix Home Appliances. 

In the postwar period of the late 1940s and early 1950s, improved front-loading, automatic washing machines were introduced alongside the very first top-loading machines. 

In 1998, the first computer-controlled consumer washer hit the market: Fisher & Paykel's SmartDrive washing machine. 

Before the invention of washing machines:

Before the invention of the washing machine, all laundry was done by hand, which was a time and labor intensive process.