In August, a mural honoring Joseph Priestley will be unveiled in Calne, Wiltshire. The scientist who discovered oxygen 250 years ago is set to be celebrated with a unique tribute. Priestley made this groundbreaking discovery while working as a librarian at Bowood House in 1774.
Born in 1733, Priestley is often regarded as one of the founders of modern chemistry due to his pioneering experiments. He focused sunlight on mercuric oxide at Bowood House and discovered the unique gas we now know as oxygen. This gas was later given the name ‘oxygen’ by French chemist Antoine Lavoisier. Priestley’s discoveries played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of gases.
The mural in Calne will showcase the scientific theme, depicting the implements used in Priestley’s experiment. The Calne Clean Up Crew, a local charity, is responsible for the project and aims to enhance the town’s aesthetic appeal while paying tribute to Priestley’s contributions to science. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with residents appreciating the effort to brighten up the town and provoke curiosity about its historical significance.
Priestley’s legacy lives on through this mural, which serves as an everlasting reminder of his groundbreaking contribution to science.