Harold's Old Time Radio: Summary of "Adventures in Research 43-03-30 Steel That Floats"

Episode Release Date: July 10, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: Adventures in Research 43-03-30 Steel That Floats

1. Introduction

In this captivating episode of Adventures in Research, hosted by Paul Shannon, listeners are introduced to the inspiring journey of Michael Puppin, an immigrant from Serbia who rises from humble beginnings to become a renowned educator and inventor in America. The narrative delves into Michael's early life, his challenges during immigration, his pursuit of education, and his groundbreaking contributions to the field of electrical engineering.

2. Early Life in Serbia

Michael Puppin was born into a struggling farm family in the small Serbian village of Ivor. Life was arduous, with every family member, including young Michael at the age of 12, contributing to the farm's upkeep.

• Michael's Father (02:25):

  "Cattle thieves. They hide in the corn fields at night, and whenever an ox strays there to feast on the corn, they steal the animal away in the dark."

This early lesson instills in Michael a deep understanding of mechanical vibrations and their practical applications, laying the foundation for his future innovations.

3. Immigration to America

At fifteen, Michael made the bold decision to immigrate to America in search of better opportunities. Despite arriving with only five cents, no relatives, friends, or specific trade skills, Michael's determination became evident.

• Immigration Officer (05:40):

  "5 cents to your name. No relatives, no friends and no skills. You're a very poor risk."

However, his knowledge of American history and figures like Benjamin Franklin and Abraham Lincoln impressed the officers, leading to a rare exception in his case:

• Immigration Officer (06:36):

  "It's... Oh, well, forget it. I'll make an exception in your case."

4. Overcoming Challenges

Michael's early years in America were marked by various odd jobs—from farming in Maryland to tending mules in Delaware, and eventually working in a cracker factory in New York. It was here that he met Mr. Jim, a boiler room engineer who became Michael's mentor.

• Mr. Jim (07:30):

  "No, no, no, my lad. You must aim higher. Much higher. That takes book learning."

Mr. Jim provided Michael with a secondhand dictionary and encouraged him to pursue education, emphasizing the importance of learning English and formal schooling.

5. Education and Mentorship

Under Mr. Jim's guidance, Michael enrolled in classes at Cooper Union night school. He immersed himself in American history and literature, evolving his English proficiency and expanding his intellectual horizons.

• Michael Puppin (09:04):

  "These men, who are they? Names like McCormick, Morse."

• Mr. Jim (09:14):

  "Morse invented the telegraph. McCormick, the reaper. How. The sewing machine. Most of these names belong to inventors. Men of science."

Inspired by these figures, Michael aspired to become a "man of science," setting the stage for his future achievements.

6. Scientific Achievements

Michael Puppin's dedication led him to Columbia College, where he earned the prestigious Tyndall Fellowship for advanced study at Cambridge. Furthering his education at the University of Berlin under the renowned physicist von Helmholtz, Michael returned to America in 1889 as Dr. Poupin.

At Columbia, he taught mathematical physics and conducted experimental research, leading to significant inventions:

• Selective Tuning (12:03):

  "I call my invention selective tuning."

This innovation addressed the challenge of interference in early wireless radio communications, laying the groundwork for modern radio technology.

Additionally, Michael perfected a telephone repeater or induction coil, facilitating long-distance telephony:

• Crocker (12:44):

  "Localized induction coils placed at predetermined intervals in the line will maintain the desired tone, distinctions and power of signal."

7. Legacy and Honors

Michael Puppin's contributions to science and technology earned him numerous accolades:

• Awards:

  • Elliott Cresson Medal for distinction in physics
  • Edison Medal
  • Ebert Prize of the French Academy

• Positions:

  • Presidency of the Institute of Radio Engineers
  • Presidency of the New York Academy of Science

His innovations not only advanced electrical engineering but also had a lasting impact on wireless communication and telephony.

8. Conclusion

Michael Puppin's story, as narrated in this episode, exemplifies the quintessential immigrant success tale. From a Serbian shepherd boy to a distinguished scientist, Michael's journey underscores the transformative power of education, mentorship, and relentless pursuit of one's dreams. His legacy continues to inspire future generations in the fields of science and engineering.

Produced in cooperation with the Westinghouse Research Laboratories, this episode of Adventures in Research is also broadcasted to armed forces personnel overseas via the Armed Forces Radio Service. Join us next week for another enlightening transcribed story of science.