A large vehicle (Phoebus's cart), on which is an electrical generator, being pulled along by winged horses with light bulbs on their heads: electricity sweeps all before it. Wood engraving by Swain, 1881, after J. Tenniel.

Other predictions include a dirigible lettered: "London to Paris in 2 hours no sea sickness" and a man riding an electric bicycle, while he reads "The electrical times"

The Electricity Lighting Bill was before Parliament in 1881. It was given Royal Assent in 1882, and Thomas Edison built the first power station in 1883 at Holborn Viaduct

1881

1 print : wood engraving ; image 21.6 x 38 cm

Punch's almanack for 1882. December 6 1881. The coming force - Mr. Punch's dream.

Wellcome Collection 36109i