The model of the engine repaired by James Watt in 1765. The plaque reads 'In 1765, James Watt, in working to repair this model, belonging to the Natural Philosophy Class in the University of Glasgow, made the discovery of a separate Condenser, which has identified his name with that of the Steam Engine."
James Watt (1736-1819), the father of the Industrial Revolution was 'mathematical instrument-maker' to the University of Glasgow from 1756 to 1774 after which he joined Matthew Boulton in partnership at his Soho ironworks in Birmingham.
James Watt founded a prize for Natural Philosophy and Chemistry students in 1808 in gratitude to the favours that the University had given him in his early career.
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