At Cornell University in Ithaca, a historic electric dynamo sits on a cart in the advanced physics lab on the third floor of Clark Hall. Built by a physics professor along with several students over 150 years ago, the dynamo was one of the world’s first machines designed to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.

This early device powered a pair of carbon arc lamps, early forms of electric lighting that worked by creating a spark between two electrodes. Together, the dynamo and lamps formed the nation’s first outdoor electric lighting system, lighting the towers of McGraw Hall and Sage Chapel. In January 1880, the bright arc lights were reportedly visible for miles around Ithaca.

The apparatus, described as resembling the inner workings of an old sewing machine, remains on display, overlooked by most Cornellians who frequent the lab.

Source: Cornell University

Source Type: College

Source Location: Ithaca

Ithaca, NY

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