2024 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth scientist and inventor Lord Kelvin, born William Thomson in 1824, one of the most prominent figures in the University of Glasgow’s history. As part of the Lord Kelvin 200 celebrations, The Hunterian and the University of Glasgow Library are holding this two-part event which offers a closer look at selected items from Archives and Special Collections and from the Hunterian’s scientific instrument collection.

Attendees will be invited to join archivist Michael Gallagher in the University Library to explore the life and legacy of Lord Kelvin, showcasing unique records held by the University. This will be followed by a behind the scenes session at Kelvin Hall with Nicky Reeves, curator of scientific and medical history collections, to take a closer look at the Hunterian’s scientific instruments.

The Hunterian’s collection contains hundreds of scientific instruments owned, designed or used by Lord Kelvin, the majority of which are not on display in the museum. In conjunction with the University’s celebration of the 200th anniversary of Kelvin’s birth, this is an opportunity to engage closely with a variety of items, including models, prototypes, rare and unique artefacts and the occasional mystery object.

Archives and Special Collections holds the Kelvin Collection, which comprises the books and papers of the physicist, including correspondence with some of the leading scientists and engineers of the 19th century.

Book for this behind the scenes session with experts from the University who will guide you through these unique collections. No prior knowledge or understanding of physics required!

Free event

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