Bow propulsion tunnels and modern bow thrusters

What was the first class of warships with bow thrusters?

Perry-era equipment commonly called bow thrusters differs from an earlier transverse bow-propulsion tunnel; the earlier class name is unclear.

The distinction depends on what counts as a bow thruster. Perry-class frigates provide the reference for the equipment commonly understood by that term in NATO usage. An earlier class, whose name is unclear, is credited with a transverse bow-propulsion tunnel. A sideways propeller in the forward tunnel helped turn the bow during docking. That arrangement explains unusual harbour manoeuvres without tugboats.