Museum of Science and Industry

Today's homes are far better equipped than those of a century ago. From the 1920s, gas and electricity suppliers vied with each other to dominate the domestic market. A growing range of appliances appeared on the market, promising to reduce household drudgery.

Prior to 1948, Manchester Corporation was responsible for local gas and electricity supplies. Its gas showroom was on Deansgate and its electricity showroom was on St Ann Street. To encourage use of electricity at home, Manchester Corporation hired out electrical appliances.

Although gas was less versatile than its rival, some remarkable products were developed, including gas-powered refrigerators, coffee roasters and even hairdryers! There was greater diversity in the field of electrical goods. Through the twentieth century, items such as toasters, kettles and vacuum cleaners went from being expensive luxuries to everyday necessities. By the 1970s, the appliance market was awash with every type of modern convenience, designed to suit varying tastes.