43: Two early x-ray tubes made by Harry W Cox

In this episode of Object Matters host Dr Craig Barker is joined by Chau Chak Wing Museum colleague Kelsey McMorrow, who is curatorial assistant, science collections.
Kelsey discusses two x-ray tubes made in the early twentieth century. Together they discuss the importance of science collections and presenting science history in museums. The cover the discovery and the development of x-rays in the late 19th century, the early use of x-rays and the gradual realisation of the health implications of unsafe x-ray usage. They also cover the fascinating story of x-ray pioneer Harry W. Cox, who's firm manufactured the two x-ray tubes in the collection discussed.

Guest: Kelsey McMorrow is Curatorial Assistant, Science Collections, Chau Chak Wing Museum. In this role Kelsey assists in the curation, research and management of the Museum’s science collections, working most closely with the Macleay Collection of scientific instruments and apparatus. Kelsey is also passionate about museum accessibility and is a member of the Museum’s Accessibility and Inclusion Working Group. Kelsey completed her BA/BSc at UNSW, studying history and psychology. She also completed her Master of Museum and Heritage Studies at the University of Sydney. 
Hear Kelsey interviewed for the UMAC Futures series on global early career university museum employees.

Host: Dr Craig Barker, Head of Public Engagement, Chau Chak Wing Museum and Director, Paphos Theatre Archaeological Excavations. Follow @DrCraig_B on Twitter and Instagram.

Objects details:
Electromagnetic instrument; Cox's x-ray tube, 1909-10917, Harry W Cox Ltd, London. Transferred to the collection in 1972 [SC1972.2]
Electromagnetic instrument; gas x-ray tube, 1896-1910, Harry W Cox Ltd, London. Donated by Mr John Robinson 2021 [SC2021.10] (pictured)