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Birmingham's Forgotten Photo Pioneer Revealed
30 Nov
Summary
- George Shaw created Birmingham's first photograph in 1839.
- He was crucial in establishing the city's first free public library.
- An exhibition showcases his early photographic achievements.
An exhibition in Birmingham is shedding light on the significant contributions of George Shaw, a Victorian scientist often overlooked.
Shaw is credited with producing the very first daguerreotype photograph in Birmingham in August 1839, just days after photography's announcement. His expertise as a chemist and patent agent positioned him uniquely at the intersection of science, art, and Birmingham's industrial innovation, particularly in silver plate manufacturing.
Beyond his photographic achievements, Shaw was a fervent advocate for education, holding a key role in the establishment of the city's first free public library. The exhibition features reproductions of rare images and archive materials, including early daguerreotypes, aiming to reintroduce this multifaceted innovator to the public and celebrate Birmingham's heritage of creativity.
