Advised Harvard University on Electrical Apparatus

Harvard University faced a significant setback when a fire destroyed its original collection of electrical laboratory apparatus, housed in Harvard Hall. This loss prompted the university to seek expert advice for the acquisition of new equipment. Benjamin Franklin, a prominent figure in the field of electricity and a key contributor to scientific advancements, was called upon to assist in this endeavor. Franklin's expertise in electrical apparatus was well recognized, and his involvement was crucial in rebuilding the university's collection. He helped identify and procure essential instruments that would not only replace the lost items but also enhance the university's capabilities in electrical research and experimentation. The collection that Franklin assembled became an integral part of the Harvard Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments, which serves as a valuable resource for both education and research in the history of science. This collaboration between Franklin and Harvard marked a pivotal moment in the development of scientific education at the university, establishing a foundation for future advancements in electrical studies and instrumentation. The impact of this initiative extended beyond Harvard, influencing the broader scientific community and contributing to the evolution of electrical engineering as a discipline.