Although we sometimes complain about today’s hearing aids, we should be very grateful!
During a visit to London, I came across hearing aids from the 1830s on display at Apsley Housethe home of the first Duke of Wellington. Given the Duke’s high position, I imagine these were the most important devices of the time. They did not seem particularly effective.
Who was the Duke of Wellington?
The Duke of Wellington (1769-1852), also known as Arthur Wellesley, was one of Britain’s most important political and military figures in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was also twice British Prime Minister. Wellington is best known for defeating Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo in 1815 (signal of victory). ABBA song!) which ended a 23-year war and French attempts to dominate Europe. He was a famous general, especially known for his impressive defensive skills; his battle plans are still studied in military academies.
In 1822, Wellington suffered significant hearing loss in his left ear, caused when an artillery gun he was inspecting fired near his ear. A hearing specialist made matters worse by pouring a solution of silver nitrate into his ear, not realizing that his eardrum was perforated. After that, Wellington’s hearing loss continued to worsen, leading him to try a variety of hearing aids, but with limited success.
Hearing loss was difficult to treat in the mid-19th century.
Wellington likely received the best hearing care available at the time, but his hearing aids were rudimentary, particularly by today’s standards. They consisted of ivory earpieces attached to everyday objects and lacked not only today’s digital dexterity but also ease of use.
Below are some examples of Wellington hearing aids.
Headband for headphones
This was worn like a headband. The sound was transmitted through the central hole to the metal band and then to the ivory earpieces. Only one of the earpieces remained.
Hearing aid with cane
Wellington used this device as both a walking stick and a hearing aid when attending Parliament. The speaker spoke into the cup on top of the handle while Wellington listened through the ivory earpiece.
It’s a good time to have hearing loss
Having hearing loss is not easy, but we are certainly better off than the Duke of Wellington. Hearing aid technology is advancing rapidly and new listening systems are being developed for the public. Hearing Loss Association of America and others continue to advocate for better access to communication. There are numerous resources available for people with hearing loss, including this blog, our book, Hear & Beyond: Living skillfully with hearing loss and many Facebook groups. The future for people with hearing loss looks even brighter.
Readers, what do you think of these headphones from years past?
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