Author: Donna Ardizzoni

Step into the fascinating life of John Hays Hammond Jr. with our lecture titled “The Expansive Life of John Hays Hammond Jr”. We are excited to have Caleb McMurphy, the Director of Visitor Services and Education at Hammond Castle join us at the Museum to present.

What do you know about the man behind the Castle?

As one of American’s foremost inventors he has 120 patents in the field of wireless radio ship and weaponry control systems becoming know as “the Father of Remote Control”. He had over 700 patents in total.

He met Thomas Edison at age 12 and they remained in contact throughout Edison’s life. He was also friends with Nicola Tesla who was known to visit Hammond at the castle. He was a skilled pianist and organist, and a passionate collector of art and antiques, and his castle houses a vast collection of medieval and Renaissance artifacts.

Hammond was also deeply interested in the occult. His marriage to Gloucester artist Evelyn Fenton in 1925 introduced an abiding interest in spiritualism. Seances, and reportedly many an all-night party were held at Hammond Castle. The Hammonds maintained deep connections to the equally successful and avant garde circle at Eastern Point.

John Hays Hammond Jr. was a true Renaissance man, with a remarkable range of talents and interests. His inventions had a profound impact on the world, and his legacy continues to inspire innovators today.

Be sure to join us for a one-hour exploration of the seeming contradictory facets and periods of the Hammonds’ life. Our lecture will be preceded by half-hour social with light refreshments at 3:30.

The Magnolia Historical Museum is located at 46 Magnolia

Ave in the historic Blynman Schoolhouse.