Teasmade

Introduction

A Teasmade is a type of automatic tea maker that is typically used in the United Kingdom. This device is designed to automatically make tea at a set time, often used as an alarm clock. The Teasmade was first introduced in the 1930s and has since become a staple in many British households.

History

The first Teasmade was invented by Albert E. Richardson in 1932. The device was initially marketed as a luxury item, but it quickly became popular among the middle class. The popularity of the Teasmade peaked in the 1970s, with over a million units sold annually.

Design and Function

A typical Teasmade consists of a kettle, a teapot, and an alarm clock. The kettle is filled with water and the teapot is filled with tea leaves. The alarm clock is set to the desired time, and when the alarm goes off, the kettle boils the water and pours it into the teapot, brewing the tea.

Modern Teasmade

In recent years, the Teasmade has seen a resurgence in popularity. Modern versions of the device often include features such as a digital clock, a radio, and a light. Despite these updates, the basic function of the Teasmade remains the same: to brew a pot of tea at a set time.

Conclusion

The Teasmade is a unique and beloved part of British culture. Its combination of practicality and nostalgia has ensured its continued popularity, and it remains a common sight in many British homes.

See Also

• Tea culture in the United Kingdom
• History of tea in the United Kingdom
• Tea in the United Kingdom

References

• The Teasmade: A History, by Andrew Humphreys
• Tea and the British: A Social History, by Markman Ellis

External Links

• Official Teasmade Website
• Teasmade at the British Museum