Domesticating electricity at Lotherton Hall
Leeds country house Lotherton Hall plays host on 24 May 2013 to an exploration of the history of household electricity by Professor Graeme Gooday, author of "Domesticating Electricity".
Professor Gooday's talk will explore the public fears and uncertainties that surrounded electricity during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Hear how the residents of country houses reacted to the introduction of electrical light to a domestic setting, from fears for their safety to issues of vanity. Discover how promoters of electrical lighting responded to these concerns, in the drawing room of Lotherton Hall, one of the first houses in Leeds to install electricity. Many of the original electrical light fittings remain in use, including the grand 1903 Perry & Co electrolier.
Taking place between 2 and 3pm, the talk will be followed by a walk around the house and exhibitions; tea with homemade cakes will be served.
The event is open to the public and free, although normal estate admission charges apply. Places at the talk do need to be booked in advance by telephone (0113 281 3259).
Graeme Gooday is Professor of History of Science and Technology at the University of Leeds, and the author of Domesticating Electricity: Technology, Uncertainty and Gender, 1880-1914.
The University of Leeds Museum of the History of Science, Technology and Medicine will be running a shuttle bus to and from the Hall, which will leave from the University at 1.30pm and permits free entry to the Hall. If you are interested in this service, please contact the museum director, Dr Claire Jones (33460).