This year marks the 200th anniversary of the death of James Watt, one of the foremost engineers the world has ever seen. His company, Boulton & Watt, were the driving force behind the development of steam engines in their age. His firm installed our No1 Engine here in 1812 and it’s still working to this day!
As Crofton’s tribute to James Watt’s life, career and achievements we are presenting this special Science Fair and James Watt themed steaming, in association with James Watt 2019, Badminton School Outreach, and the Institute of Physics, South West Branch.
Come and join us during the three-day Spring Bank Holiday weekend to see our engines in steam, hear expert talks on different aspects of James Watt’s life, achievements and legacy, and take part in our range of fun family activities and demonstrations!
Talks
Saturday 25 May
“The most extraordinary man – the life and legacy of James Watt, 1736-1819”
by Dr Chris Rice. 12 noon.
“The Lunar Society of Birmingham”
by Dr Sally Dickson. 2:15pm
Sunday 26 May
“The Power to Change the World – James Watt: A Life in 50 Objects”
by Dr Malcolm Dick, followed by launch and signings of his new book of the same name. 2:15pm
Monday 27 May
“The Steam Engines of James Watt”
by Bill Whitehead. 2.15pm
Activities
Sunday 26 & Monday 27 May
“Physics in the Freezer” – a fun talk and demonstration of the effects of liquid nitrogen and the science behind it. Presented by staff and pupils of Badminton School. 12:00 and 15:15 both days
Saturday 25, Sunday 26 & Monday 27 May
Stirling Heat Engine Demonstration – a demonstration of how these engines work and the science and engineering behind them, as well as some physics tricks! Presented by the University of Bristol and sponsored by the Institute of Physics. Throughout the day, all three days
Saturday 25, Sunday 26 & Monday 27 May
Mechatronics – a display and information about Crofton’s National Lottery Heritage Fund supported Mechatronics project and the fascinating things we are learning about the historic engines using advanced instrumentation techniques. Throughout the day, all three days
And, if our programme has whet your appetite for finding out even more about James Watt, please click here for the full programme of James Watt 2019 activities nationwide!
For a selection of short films on the life, work and legacy of James Watt courtesy of James Watt 2019, please click this link!
