The Papers of Thomas A. Edison (2011-2014)

Completion of volume 8 and the beginning of work on volume 9 of the Papers of Thomas Edison, covering the period 1885-1889. (36 months)The Papers of Thomas A. Edison is a fifteen-volume book edition that will contain 6,500 transcribed and annotated letters, notebook entries, experimental drawings, legal agreements, marketing plans, autobiographical writings, and other documents from Edison's lengthy career. This proposal primarily seeks funding to complete Volume 8 (1885-1887). In this volume Edison remarries and returns to full-time laboratory research, building a large new laboratory near his home in West Orange, New Jersey. Edison continues research on electric light technology, develops a growing interest in scientific research and renews his work on telecommunications technology and sound recording. We also will begin work on Volume 9, which focuses on the battle between DC and AC electrical systems during which Edison plays a major role in the debate over the use of electrocution for capital crimes. He also develops an improved phonograph, begins work on motion pictures, and makes a celebrated visit to Paris.