Thomas Edison with a Model of a Concrete House, circa 1911
Add to SetSummary
In 1899, after a failed attempt at ore mining, Thomas Edison formed the Edison Portland Cement Company. At his plant, Edison combined his mining operation's rock-crushing technology with new machinery he developed, like a more efficient cement kiln. These innovations drove overproduction in the cement industry, leading Edison to propose a radical use for the excess product -- concrete houses for working class families.
In 1899, after a failed attempt at ore mining, Thomas Edison formed the Edison Portland Cement Company. At his plant, Edison combined his mining operation's rock-crushing technology with new machinery he developed, like a more efficient cement kiln. These innovations drove overproduction in the cement industry, leading Edison to propose a radical use for the excess product -- concrete houses for working class families.
Artifact
Photographic print
Subject Date
circa 1911
Collection Title
On Exhibit
By Request in the Benson Ford Research Center
Object ID
84.1.1630.P.B.47519
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Paper (Fiber product)
Technique
Gelatin silver process
Color
Black-and-white (Colors)
Dimensions
Height: 10 in
Width: 8.25 in
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