Fleeming Jenkin, British electrical engineer, 1884.

Etching by W Hole. Jenkin (1833-1885) had a productive working relationship with Lord Kelvin (1824-1907), collaborating with him on research into electrical cables. In particular, Jenkin worked on the practicalities of underwater cable-laying for use in telegraphy. He also developed a system for transporting goods and materials, known as 'telpherage'. Overhead cables or wires, powered by electricity, would move items from place to place. Sadly Jenkin died suddenly and never saw his system in use. He is shown here in his workshop making a spark from a battery. Above him is his telpherage system. From 'Quasi cursores'.