The Thomas Parker Exhibition

2015 marks the centenary of Thomas Parker's death. Thanks to Madeley Town Council and a group of volunteers he will be commemorated in a series of events, culminating in the restoration of his grave in St. Michael's Graveyard at Madeley.
The first event, the Thomas Parker Exhibition was at the Footprint Gallery, Tile Museum, Jackfield until Wednesday 29th July, 2015.

Use of the gallery was kindly provided by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust.

The exhibition opened on Thursday 9th July, 2015 and was a celebration of the achievements of Thomas Parker.

The exhibition of his life and work featured a display by year 4, 5, and 6 pupils of John Fletcher of Madeley Primary School.

It featured drawings, paintings, and models of many of Thomas Parker's creations from his machines and cars, to his trams and trains.


An opening speech by head teacher Mr. Matthew Gould.


A speech by year 6 teacher, Mrs. Lynsey Gladwin.


One of the pupils gives a speech.


A speech by another pupil.


Visitors and children admire the displays.


Another view of the visitors admiring the excellent work.


A section about the Liverpool Overhead Railway.


The section about the man himself.

 

Descriptions of Thomas Parker.

 

A lovely drawing by Katie from Year 6.


A section devoted to Thomas's cars.


Some of the children's models.


Dynamos, steam pumps, and alternators.


All about the 'Kyrle' grate.


The opening evening featured this excellent display of items from the Library and Archives of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust, thanks to their Curator, Dr. Tamsin Bapty. The display included the address presented to Thomas Parker on his 46th birthday, a set of his weights, his Stevenson medal, his original moulding tools, the patent grant and the seal for the Parker Weston steam pump, and an advert for the pump. Photograph courtesy of Andy Rose.

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