Constellation Similarity Assertions
Edison, Thomas A. (Thomas Alva), 1847-1931
Thomas Alva Edison (1847-1931) was the most prolific American inventor to date. This collection contains typescript reproductions of his laboratory notebooks recording research for a domestic source of natural rubber sponsored by his Edison Botanic Research Corp. of Fort Myers. The company was founded in Florida by Edison, Harvey Firestone and Henry Ford. In collaboration with John Kunkel Small (1869-1938) of the New York Botanical Garden, over 17,000 plants were tested. Solidago (Goldenrod) was determined to be the best source. Experiments continued after Edison's and Small's deaths until World War II when the development of synthetic rubber eliminated the need for local sources. The records of the Edison Botanic Research Corp. were transferred to the Edison National Historic Site. In 1963 Mrs. Lillian Roth of Irvington, N.J. transcribed the laboratory notes related to this project from the microfilm. She presented it to Harold Moldenke who transferred it to the New York Botanical Garden.
From the description of Thomas Alva Edison papers 1880-1964. (New York Botanical Garden). WorldCat record id: 42306873
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