Full steam ahead for event at Engine Shed

It’s 250 years since James Watt patented his idea of using a separate condenser to drive a steam engine.

The Scottish Transport and Industrial Collections Knowledge Network – or STICK – is celebrating the achievement at a mini-conference at The Engine Shed venue in Stirling this spring.

“Watt A Great Idea!” – subtitled “250 years of ethically curating, interpreting and operating Watt engines” – promises expert speakers and lively debate, plus a chance to view a new exhibition about the great Mr Watt.

The event, on Thursday, April 25, is open to STICK members and the general public. It’s £25 per person to attend. This covers the conference fees and lunch and refreshments.

Register to attend, and get more details, on Eventbrite. (Please note that you will need to pay for tickets in cash on the door; receipts will be provided).

Speakers will include:

Ben Russell, a curator at the Science Museum in London, which boasts a range of Watt- related exhibits, including a recreation of Watt’s workshop;
Jim Mitchell, of Industrial Heritage Consulting Ltd, who will be discussing the challenges of conserving a Boulton & Watt Engine; and
Katie Bowell, from Edinburgh University, who will be talking about the history of public engagement with technology at the National Museum of Scotland.

The running order for the event is available here. (PDF)

Details are also available on the STICK website.

If you have any queries about the event – or any special dietary requirements – please contact e.swinbank@nms.ac.uk

A spokesperson for STICK said: “James Watt’s separate condenser made the steam engine efficient and thus influential in world history, with repercussions to this day.

“Instrument-maker James Watt had struggled with a Newcomen engine owned by the University of Glasgow. He came up with the idea of the separate condenser, which was patented in 1769 – 250 years ago. His invention would revolutionise industry, society, and the economy worldwide.”