Ever wonder why your socks stick together when they come out of the dryer? In BC 600, the ancient Greeks were also wondering about the mystery of electricity and what causes those bright flashes of light in the fur cloth they used to polish jewelry. For the next 2000 years, electricity is believed to be a “magic power” originating from a divine source.

Then, during The Age of Enlightenment in 18th century Europe, the rebirth of logic and reason inspire curiosity and new questions about the natural world. Innovative thinkers like Benjamin Franklin eagerly explore electricity, pioneering original and often dramatic experiments to find out more. Old explanations and fears are slowly overcome as thinkers from around the globe uncover exciting information about he nature of electricity.

A world of possibilities is born!

• The phenomenon of static electrical attraction is first recorded around BC 600 in ancient Greece. It remains a mystery for over 2000 years.
• The Age of Enlightenment in 18th century Europe promotes logic and reason.
• In AD 1600 the Englishman Dr. William Gilbert conducts first scientific experiments on static electricity.
• In 1742, Peter Van Musschenbroek of the Netherlands devises first Leyden jar to store electricity.
• In 1749, Benjamin Franklin, undertakes first studies of atmospheric electricity, flying his famous kite.

Key discoveries:

• Static electricity can be generated and stored.
• Electricity has positive and negative properties.
• Conductors are materials which allow passage of electricity
• Insulators are materials which block passage of electricity.

Gallery One Highlights:

• “Franklin’s laboratory” diorama
• Early Leyden Jars
• Static electricity machines
• Barlow’s Wheel
• Volta Cannon