Museum of Science and Industry

Presenters at MOSI will be getting all steamed up next week when they demonstrate the power of steam, as part of a programme of free family events for May half term (29 May – 6 June). 

The Museum has recently acquired a model steam boiler which allows visitors to see how a boiler works and how it can be used to power an engine. There will also be a working model of the first known steam engine - developed by Hero of Alexandria (AD10 – AD70) - and a chance to learn about how steam engines developed into the large-scale versions that can be seen in the Museum today.

The event runs in MOSI’s Power Hall throughout half term week as part of the ‘Heroes of Industry’ programme. The free events include workshops on fabric painting and bridge building, storytelling, and costume character shows.  

The programme’s theme is local heroes of industry, and ties in with nationwide celebrations this year for the 350 anniversary of the Royal Society, which has been at the cutting edge of scientific progress. Many of Manchester’s local heroes were Royal Society fellows.

Presenter team leader Gareth Redston/Sally Stevens said: “Our heroes of Industry programme is packed full of free, hands-on, fun activities for all the family here at the Museum during Half Term. Manchester owes much of its success and growth to the power of steam, and our new model steam boiler really helps to explain how it all works and convey some of the excitement that engineers must have felt when they first discovered the process.”

Heroes of Industry events are FREE and are part of a year long programme of events at museums and galleries throughout Britain to celebrate 350 years of the Royal Society.

For more information or images please call Sarah Roe on 0161 606 0176 m: 07847 372647.  

Notes to editors

Between November 2009 and November 2010, the Royal Society will be celebrating its 350th anniversary, promoting a spirit of enquiry, excitement and engagement with science.  The Society will be working with organizations across the country to raise the profile of science and bring scientific activities to new audiences.  More information about the anniversary year can be found at  www.royalsociety.org

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