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Without question, the three most influential individuals in the history of kaleidoscopes and their popularity are Sir David Brewster, Charles G. Bush, and Cozy Baker.

Sir David Brewster (1781-1868) was a child prodigy, building a telescope when only 10 years old. He entered the University of Edinburgh at the age of 12, where he continued his academic achievements. His primary field of study was optics and the physics of light. Brewster invented the kaleidoscope in 1816, whereupon it was met with much enthusiasm. Ironically, Brewster derived very little remuneration from his invention, owing to a fault with the patent registration.

Biographical sketch of Sir David Brewster

Brewster Kaleidoscope Patent (Approx. 225Kb)

It was during the Victorian age that the kaleidoscope reached its zenith. In those days it took longer for good news to travel, so while thousands of kaleidoscopes were being manufactured all over Europe, it was not until the 1870s that they found their way into American parlors.

During this time, only one kaleidoscope was manufactured which had any lasting significance, that of Charles G. Bush (1825-1900). Bush manufactured a popular variety of parlor kaleidoscopes that have become valued collector's items. These instruments have a barrel of banded black hardboard with a spoked brass wheel rotating an object cell, mounted on a turned wooden stand.

Charles G. Bush and his Parlor Kaleidoscope

Bush Kaleidoscope Patents (Approx. 380Kb)

Cozy Baker founded the Brewster Kaleidoscope Society (nee Brewster Society) in 1986, after writing the first book in the world on the subject and curating the world's first kaleidoscope exhibition. For 18 years Cozy was the sole officer of the Brewster Society, acting as liaison between the artists, retailers, and collectors, writing and publishing a quarterly newsletter, and planning an annual convention in cities around the country. She authored six more books on kaleidoscopes, and converted her Bethesda home into a house/museum for Brewster Society members.

More information on Cozy Baker.