A Little-Known Laboratory In Georgetown Is Where Some Of The Most Important Items In Our Lives Were Invented.
Alexander Graham Bell
Washington DC is full of museums. The Smithsonian alone has 20 plus museums that could keep you fascinated for months. However, there is one very small museum, actually a laboratory, that visiting will make a lasting impression on your life.
Located in a small building across from the Georgetown University is the Volta Laboratory founded by Alexander Graham Bell. It was here where Bell did all of his research leading to the telegraph, the first telephone, followed by the gramophone or record player, magnetic recording and the tape recorder and dozens of other audio related inventions. He even founded the American Gramophone Company which later became the giant Columbia Records company.
Early Sound Test at Volta Laboratory
But was most fascinating was his reason for doing research on sound and devices that would recreate or enhance sound waves. Both his mother and wife were deaf so his original goal was to help them. His was determined to find a device to help all those who are deaf and hard of hearing to have a more normal life.
All of his research, and the many inventions that resulted from Bell’s innovative mind, led to everyday devices like telephones and music players allowing everyone to hear things we would have never heard without his successful work. But most importantly, he met his goal for those inflected with hearing problems. His early aid to hearing devices allowed many to hear for the first time. And for others to hear better. Today’s sophisticated modern hearing devices, commonly called hearing aids, are based on his original research and provide enhanced hearing for millions of people. His work still gives the gift of first-time hearing to thousands who would otherwise be deaf.
Volta Laboratory’s Gramophone
Alexander Graham Bell’s original laboratory is available for a fascinating visit. It is a small building that looks like some sort of temple. Bell’s original laboratory was his father’s nearby house which he used until he built the Volta laboratory in 1893. It is a National Historic Landmark.
The Volta Laboratory is featured on the popular SelfTour™ Washington DC Driving Tour App guided by GPS. For more information contact SelfTour.Guide or search it on the Apple Store.
