author

Francis Hauksbee

1687–1763

An early London instrument maker and experimental lecturer, he helped bring natural philosophy to life with public demonstrations and practical science. Working closely with the Royal Society, he stood at the meeting point of craftsmanship, teaching, and experiment.

1 Audiobook

A Course of Mechanical, Magnetical, Optical, Hydrostatical and Pneumatical Experiments perform'd by Francis Hauksbee, and the Explanatory Lectures read by William Whiston, M.A.

A Course of Mechanical, Magnetical, Optical, Hydrostatical and Pneumatical Experiments perform'd by Francis Hauksbee, and the Explanatory Lectures read by William Whiston, M.A.

by William Whiston, Francis Hauksbee

About the author

Francis Hauksbee the Younger (1687–1763) was an English instrument maker, experimentalist, and lecturer. He was related to the better-known Francis Hauksbee the Elder and built a career in London making scientific equipment while giving demonstrations that helped audiences understand the new experimental science of the early 18th century.

Sources agree that he was active as a lecturer by about 1714, often in connection with William Whiston, and that he was elected clerk and housekeeper to the Royal Society in 1723. From his base near Fleet Street, he made and sold instruments such as air pumps, hydrostatic balances, and reflecting telescopes, showing how closely science and skilled workshop practice were linked in his day.

He also wrote or co-wrote practical works on laboratory methods, chemistry, astronomy, pneumatics, and related subjects. Though he is not as famous today as some of his contemporaries, his career offers a vivid picture of how science was taught, demonstrated, and built in Georgian London.