The world’s oldest known lawnmower is making its way from Sussex to London for a special exhibition. The 1840s machine, currently on display at the Museum of Gardening in Hassocks, will become the centerpiece of the British Library’s “Unearthed: The Power of Gardening” exhibition, which runs until August 10.
Curator Clive Gravett shared that the mower has been a star attraction at the Museum of Gardening, drawing visitors from all over to see and photograph it. The mower, a rare Budding model, is the oldest surviving example and one of only two original machines of its kind. It predates the similar model at the Science Museum by about a decade.
Gravett has also researched the mower’s history, uncovering information about its original owners and the head gardener who likely used it in the 1840s. He has shared these findings on his blog, shedding light on this important piece of horticultural history.
“This mower is a significant part of our gardening heritage, and I am thrilled it will be showcased in the British Library’s summer exhibition,” Gravett said. “I’m sure Budding, the inventor, would have been equally proud.”
After its display in London, the mower will return to Sussex in mid-August, where it will remain on view for the rest of the year.
Related topics:
- Tacoma Expands Public EV Charging Network for Increased Convenience
- CATL Unveils Sodium-Ion and Fast-Charging LFP Batteries at Launch
- Sunseeker Launches the X3 Plus Wireless Robotic Mower in the U.S.
