HSY-502 - Flour, Gunpowder and Teflon

Course Description

Flour, Gunpowder and Teflon | Explore an 18th-century working gristmill on the Wye Mill, and the gunpowder works founded by E.I. DuPont. Learn how that was seen as "high tech" technology and the beginning of the industrial revolution. Discuss the significance of Oliver Evans and his inventions of conveyor belts, chutes and steam power in the 19th century. Visit Maryland's Wye Mill and the Hagley Museum in Wilmington, Del. $92 includes $38 fee. Note: Transportation by AACC included. Extensive walking and standing required without assistance. Bring a bag lunch or purchase one on your own. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for outdoors.

Learner Outcomes

Assess the milling technology of the 18th century including water wheel improvements, steam powered milling, and their significance in the expansion of spinning and creating nylon fibers; Define types of water wheels and the significance of harnessing water power to the construction of mills; Describe the life of a worker in the 19th century milling village of DuPont, its risks and rewards, and the simplicity of 19th century dwellings as architecture; Discuss the inventions of Oliver Evans conveyor belts, chutes, and his use of steam power to lessen labor inside the mills; Recognize the connection between everyday usage of Dacron, Spandex, Teflon and plastics and the significant milestones in American invention and industrialization.