Short Stories of Science and Invention

A Collection of Radio Talks by

Charles F. Kettering

INDEX

Weekly, from September 1942 to July 1945, Charles F. Kettering gave five-minute intermission talks about Science and Invention during the radio broadcasts of the General Motors Symphony of the Air.

Kettering invented the first automobile self-starter, and for 31 years directed a research laboratory for General Motors.

These radio talks are a fascinating legacy from the mind of a prolific inventor. The obvious anachronisms now add a historical perspective of the war-time period in which they were written.

These web pages now preserve some of the most popular stories for a new generation to read The text and art come from a General Motors booklet of selected talks. (Reprint, March 1959)

35. "Poor Richard"
A Radio Talk by Charles F. Kettering

When young Beethoven was beginning his musical career at Bonn in 1783, Doctor Benjamin Franklin, ambassador from the newly born American republic, was being welcomed in Paris. One was beginning his life work, the other was at the zenith of his career - both were to leave their imprints on the world to come.

House

     Benjamin Franklin was born in a house on Milk Street in Boston. Today we would say young Franklin was dynamic, for at the age of 17 his energy took him from Boston via New York to Philadelphia.

     Later he was sent to London to learn more about the printing business and to study "natural philosophy" as "science" was called in those days.

     When he came back to Philadelphia, he set up a printing shop of his own and published, among other things, "Poor Richard's Almanack" which still ranks as one of the all-time best sellers.

     In addition to printing, he invented a stove, an improved outdoor lamp, and promoted paved streets in an attempt to raise the sanitary standards of the American city. The Junto Club which he organized to spread culture became probably America's first circulating library.