Name/Title
Incandescent Lighting, a Practical Description of the Edison System, (1 box, 1890)Description
This is an open copy of Lewis H. Latimer’s groundbreaking book, "Incandescent Electric Lighting: A Practical Description of the Edison System," published in 1890 by D. Van Nostrand Company, New York. The book is recognized as the first book on electric lighting published in the United States.
The title page includes:
The full title and author credits, acknowledging Latimer's expertise.
Contributions by C. J. Field on the design and operation of incandescent stations.
A paper by John W. Howell on the maximum efficiency of incandescent lamps.
The Van Nostrand Science Series emblem.
A large fold-out illustration of an Edison incandescent lamp and socket is partially extended, showing detailed technical specifications and construction of the light bulb.
Handwritten notes on the title page include:
"Donated by the author’s relatives."
"This was the first book on Electric Lighting published in the United States."
These annotations highlight the historical importance of the book as a foundational text on electric lighting.
Context
Lewis H. Latimer, a Black inventor, engineer, and draftsman, played a pivotal role in the development of electric lighting. His carbon filament innovation made incandescent bulbs longer-lasting and more practical, advancing Thomas Edison’s lighting system.
This book was essential in standardizing electric lighting technology, providing detailed guidance for engineers, electricians, and industry professionals. Its publication marked a significant milestone in American electrical engineering and African American scientific contributions.
The detailed fold-out illustration of an Edison incandescent lamp emphasizes Latimer’s technical expertise in electrical engineering and innovation.Context
A technical book by Lewis H. Latimer on the Edison System of electric lighting. Published in 1890, this book highlights Latimer’s contributions to electrical engineering and his role in refining and promoting the Edison lighting system.Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Transcription
Header:
"VAN NOSTRAND SCIENCE SERIES"
No. 57. – 50 Cts.
Title:
"INCANDESCENT ELECTRIC LIGHTING."
"A Practical Description of the Edison System."
Author:
"By L. H. LATIMER."
"To which is added the DESIGN AND OPERATION OF INCANDESCENT STATIONS By C. J. FIELD."
"And a paper on THE MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY OF INCANDESCENT LAMPS By JOHN W. HOWELL."
Publisher Information:
"NEW YORK: D. VAN NOSTRAND COMPANY, 23 Murray and 27 Warren Street, 1890."
(A numbered handwritten mark "389" is visible in the top left corner.)Location
Folder
373hBox
373Archival Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) QPL CollectionLibrary
Queens Borough Public LibraryCity
Jamaica, QueensState
New York, USAContinent
North AmericaCountry
United States
