This Day in History May 23, 1785

By Ruth on May 23, 2013 in history
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TwoRoundGlassesBifocals

I think I had heard this somewhere, but we have Benjamin Franklin to thank for bifocals, or so the story goes.  Franklin was getting old, and it was becoming difficult for him to see.  On this date in 1785, he sent a letter to an optician in London that suggested that he developed the idea for bifocals.  While there is not a lot of concrete evidence, it seems to make sense.  After all, Franklin was a pretty smart, handy guy.  My mom and dad (and my daughter–just for reading) all wear bifocals.  And I’m sure in time, I will.

For more info:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bifocals

http://www.antiquespectacles.com/topics/franklin/franklin.htm

http://inventors.about.com/od/fstartinventors/ss/Franklin_invent_4.htm

http://famousdaily.com/history/benjamin-franklin-invents-bifocals.html

About the Author

RuthView all posts by Ruth
Ruth Hill is an entertainment journalist, digital media strategist, and creative professional who believes in the power of storytelling to inspire, encourage, and connect people. With years of experience interviewing actors, filmmakers, authors, and other creative professionals, Ruth has developed a passion for discovering the stories behind the people who bring entertainment to life. Her interviews and reviews reflect her appreciation for authentic storytelling, meaningful performances, and the creative individuals working both in front of and behind the camera. Through her digital media business, Media From the Heart, Ruth works with actors, filmmakers, authors, and organizations to help them connect with audiences through social media strategy, video production, YouTube optimization, website development, and digital marketing. A Washington State native, Ruth lives in the Yelm area and is the proud mother of an adult daughter. A former music educator and lifelong creative, she continues to pursue her passion for music, writing, and the arts. At the heart of everything Ruth does is her Christian faith, which inspires her commitment to seeing the best in others,

3 Comments

  1. Misha Estrada May 23, 2013 Reply

    I admire Ben Franklin. He was such a brilliant man. My third child’s name is Benjamin 🙂

  2. Christie Cottage May 23, 2013 Reply

    I am glad whoever made them! LOL

    Otherwise I would have nose prints all over my monitor! LOL

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    • Author
      Ruth May 23, 2013 Reply

      I am so glad to see you on here! So glad you found my new blog!!

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