Birth of the Electric Grid

Birth of the Electric Grid: On September 4, 1882, Thomas Edison flipped the switch on the world’s first commercial electric grid in Lower Manhattan. This electrifying tour and history talk traces how that moment sparked a global revolution, transforming NYC's gas-lit streets into glittering thoroughfares of skyscrapers illuminated by electric lights. You'll follow in the footsteps of a young Nikola Tesla, who arrived in 1884 to work for Edison. Dive into the drama that caused Tesla to break away from Edison and create his own electric innovations. You will also learn about how both Edison and Tesla had complicated relationships with J.P. Morgan.  Finally, we’ll explore how electricity helped NYC reach new heights as elevators made it possible for buildings and people to rise higher than ever before. It’s a tour of brilliant minds, bold ideas, and the literal power that built the city.

Languages
English
Links
Edison Tesla tour
Tour Presented By
Rich Miller Rich Miller was previously NYC Energy Policy Chief (1998-2003) and recently retired as Vice-President for Energy and Environmental Law at Con Edison, the electric, gas and steam company for New York City. He has authored articles on New York City’s significant role in the early history of electricity. He gives a tour about the birth of the electric grid in New York City that tells the story of Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla.