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“Natural Philosophy” and the Domestic Sphere: Scientific Instruments in the Early American Home, 1750-1850 – The role of scientific instruments in daily life is the focus of an upcoming symposium sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the George Mason University Department of History. The program will be presented on Friday, March 29, 2002, at the university in Fairfax, Virginia.
An historical portrayal of a period surveyor by Jim Daniel (Consultant) opens the program. Michael O’Malley (George Mason University) surveys the cultural, social and technological development of the history of science (“natural philosophy.”) Deborah Warner (National Museum of American History) discusses at the scientific instruments used by educated and wealthy gentlemen in their “natural philosophy” pursuits and as entertaining curiosities for middling classes. Jon Nese (The Franklin Institute) explores early attempts at weather prediction. Beth Bisbano (American Clock & Watch Museum) examines timekeeping, clocks and associated devices.
Tabletop exhibits and demonstrations of period clocks and barometers and other instruments, survey equipment and “chaining”, making and reading sundials, weather-related folklore and other associated interpretive activities accompany the program. Related resource books will be on sale.
Prepaid registrations are required and must be postmarked by March 15, 2002. The $50.00 fee covers all sessions of the symposium, parking and lunch. For information and registration forms write to the:
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