This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/5/2018
Although the first incandescent lamp had been produced 40 years earlier, no inventor had been able to come up with a practical design until Thomas Edison embraced the challenge in the late 1870s. After countless tests, he developed a high-resistance carbon-thread filament that burned steadily for hours and an electric generator sophisticated enough to power a large lighting system. Edison made the first public demonstration of his incandescent light bulb on December 31, 1879 in Menlo Park, New Jersey, where he lit up a street. The Pennsylvania Railroad Company ran special trains to Menlo Park on the day of the demonstration in response to public enthusiasm over the event. Offered here is the completely one-of-a-kind type I photograph of Edison with his light bulb on that historic day - the very first public image of the inventor with his masterpiece! The photograph measures 6" x 8" and contains appropriate copyright stamping from International News Photos, Inc. In fine condition with minor expected handling wear and surface impressions to the original photograph. Don't miss the opportunity to own this incredible piece of history from one of the most important inventions of our time!