First Plastic Invented Here


First Plastic Invented Here

This is where the World's first plastic was invented.

Location: Berkshire Road, Hackney Wick, London

Description: This is where the first plastics in the world were made, and called Parkesene, after it's founder Alexander Parkes in 1862.

He showcased some samples of colourful plastics at the 1862 London International Exhibition, although Vulcanite had been shown by both Hancock and Goodyear at the 1851 Great Exhibition, this was the first time that a colourful material that did not rely on a surface finish or dye had been put on public display.

Parkes showed great optimism for his new material and, more significantly, anticipated many of the uses for which plastics have been employed in the subsequent 140 years. He won the award of a bronze medal 'for excellence of product'.

The factory was opened here with high hopes but within two years it was in liquidation. Most of the problems may be attributed to a desire to keep the price below a shilling a pound, accordingly the product quality was not up to the standard of those displayed at the 1862 exhibition.

Tours: The London Inventions Tour

Themes: IndustryIndustry Theme  PioneerPioneer Theme
First Plastic Invented Here

This is where the World's first plastic was invented.

Ranking This Month: 1415/3052

Pages Hit This Month: 65


Credits: http://www.plastiquarian.com

1» The title is very misleading. Plastic, (Parkesene), may well have been produced here, however it was invented in Birmingham. Yet another example of London stealing all the glory. (Geoff)
Posted by Geoff on 2011-05-30

Your Comments:

Name:
Email:
Your email will ONLY be used once, to confirm the publication of your comments. We value your contribution and privacy.

Anti-spam Security: Please enter this code:


Other places nearby:


Richard Branson born here», 8.8km

Tom Bata's Shoe Factory», 19.km

Thomas Crapper was here», 7.0km

Fairfield Works: Strike a Light!», 0.9km

Home of the Speaking Clock», 9.2km

The Original Media Mogul: Elias», 4.7km

Tompion and Graham Clockmakers», 4.0km

London Museum of Water & Steam», 12.km

William Morris' Birthplace», 3.0km

News International HQ», 3.0km

Location Pinpointed:


Open Street Maps», Google Maps»