Microscopium – The Microscopists’ Fair
Saturday 10th August 2024
Microscopium was again held at The Settlement in Letchworth. As in previous years we took two rooms, and they were full of interesting items, hardware and lots of bargains. Some of the items were being sold on behalf of the Club, but the majority at this event were from private sellers and we owe thanks to them and the organisers who made the event possible.
In the main room Michael Horwood had a marvellous display of his slides of butterflies and moths, along with some feathers.
Michael Horwood’s display
The stage had a supply of microscopes being sold on behalf of the Club, and Gordon Brown had an eclectic collection including a large apothecary bottle.
Richard Courtier had made the long trip from Bristol with what must have been a very full car. He had two tables positively packed with slides, cabinets and objectives from the era of brass and glass, all of which generated a great deal of interest.
Lisa and Nigel Ashby had bought a selection of items in rummage boxes which always seem popular, as well as some blood sample tubes they had been given by a medical supplies company. These were offered free to anyone who could use them, they were particularly impressed that one buyer wanted them as they were small enough to be taken on cycle rides for en route sample collection – dedication to microscopy in action.
In the smaller room among the many tables there was a large array of microscopes courtesy of Steve Gill, along with a good selection of books and catalogues.
As usual tea, coffee and biscuits were available and the covered porch area allowed many of our visitors a chance to sit and catch up with friends old and new whilst they had there lunch or tried to identify that useful item they had just bought.
Thanks to Mark Shephard and Lisa Ashby for successfully organising this year’s Microscopium.
Report by Lisa Ashby, photographs by Peter Wyn-Jones