MOUNT VERNON — Before I-pads, smart phones and email, the “Victorian Internet” was alive and well. Join Jack Brown, a retired professor and economist, for a hands-on, interactive Brown Bag Chat, “The Victorian Internet: The Technology Behind the Telegraph Era” onWednesday, February 5, noon, at the Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County.
All ages are invited to come and try 19th century “texting” and develop custom “ring tones” as if you in were telegraph station. Examine and use the instruments and technology that were required to develop the first telecommunications network. Experience the “look and feel” of 1853 high tech and appreciate how these developments led directly to your smart phone.
Participants will learn how to build and test the first battery, record telegraph messages on an early printer, and learn how to make the first electric current meter. A sample gadget will be given away as a door prize.
All Brown Bag Chats are free and open to the public. Feel free to bring a brown bag lunch or refreshments provided. For information, call the main library at 740-392-BOOK (2665) Ext. 243, visit www.knox.net, or email communityrelations@knox.net.
