Historical Scientific Instruments

Shae A. Trewin
Collections Manager
B.A.(honors), University of Melbourne

Beyond the Basement A blog on the Historical Scientific Collections at Yale

203.432.9677
Fax 203.432.9816
shae.trewin@yale.edu
Division of Historical Scientific Instruments

Originally from Australia, I was appointed Collections Manager in September 2004 after working as a volunteer in the Division for 18 months.

Currently I am cleaning 19th and 20th century physics demonstration apparatus, including a large variety of galvanometers. These instruments were formally housed in Yale’s Physics Department. Accessioning newly acquired and donated instruments is also a current project, along with locating and documenting other instruments at Yale. Researching the collection and individual pieces is also an ongoing priority.

Academic Interests

• The impact of scientific theory on museum exhibition design and public demonstrations of scientific phenomena.
• Darwin’s theory of evolution, the “missing link” and the popularity of freak shows in the 1800s.
• Science education, exhibition design and the role of instruments as a teaching tool.
• Conservation techniques for scientific instruments.
• International law and treaties regarding cultural heritage preservation and the exportation of cultural artifacts.
  

Education

2003–Present
Master of Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies, Deakin University, Australia

1999–2002
Bachelor of Arts (honors), The University of Melbourne
Double major in Psychology and History and Philosophy of Science
Thesis: Medieval Interpretations of Aristotle’s De anima and Discussions on the Immortal Soul.
 
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