From a bagpipe-playing robot to famous dinosaur bones all have had the Carnegie touch.
They are just part of a major exhibition that opened at the Scottish Parliament exploring the Dunfermline-born philanthropist’s legacy which “changed the world”.
It showcases how the beliefs and actions of one man resulted in an internation allegacy of philanthropy and explains how the weaver’s son’s bequest to the world continues to shape the 21st Century.
Presiding Officer Tricia Marwick said Andrew Carnegie’s life was a real rags-to-riches story, which was interesting in itself.
“Perhaps more interesting, however, is how he used his vast wealth to improve society and encourage philanthropy.
“From establishing libraries to supporting education, scientific research and the arts, Carnegie’s legacy has touched many people from all walks of life and thisfascinating exhibition captures that and demonstrates the power of an individual to make a positive impact on society,” she said.
Included in the exhibition, which runs until January 25 in the main hall at the parliament, is McBlare, a robot designed by Professor Roger Dannenberg at Carnegie Mellon University, which can play the bagpipes faster than a human being, andpuppets from Sesame Tree, a version of Sesame Street made in Northern Ireland by SixteenSouth Television and Sesame Workshop.
Sesame Workshop has a remit to build the Sesame model for respect and understanding across the sectarian divide.
There are also illustrations of the Peace Palace in the Hague, which Carnegie donated $1.5 million to build, and a photograph of Carnegie University by Washington astronomer Vera Rubin, whose research resulted in the theory that around 90% of the universe is invisible to us.
Then there is diplodocus carnegii. In 1898, Carnegie heard about an expedition uncovering the bones of a giant dinosaur.
He tasked WJ Holland, director of his new museum in Pittsburgh, with acquiring it, which Holland did after extensive negotiations. The fossilised bones are still on display today at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh.
This exhibition was made possible due to the support of the Carnegie Corporation of New York and was created by a partnership between Carnegie Dunfermline Trust, Carnegie Birthplace Museum and the Scottish Parliament.
Given Carnegie’s dedication in later life to giving away his fortune, Carnegie Dunfermline Trust chief executive Nora Rundell said it was hardly surprising, therefore, to see the extent to which his legacy continued to influence today’s world.
“From cutting edge science to art to educational establishments, Andrew Carnegie continues to provide support to people seeking to improve the lives of others.
“This exhibition, the associated seminars and medal of philanthropy ceremony this week will hopefully inspire others to follow in his footsteps. He would like that.”
For further information, go to www.scottish.parliament.uk/carnegie.