As much as we sometimes complain about today’s hearing devices, we should be very grateful!
During a visit to London, I chanced upon hearing aids from the 1830s on display at Apsley House, the home of the 1st Duke of Wellington. Given the Duke’s high stature, I imagine these were the leading devices of the day. They did not look particularly effective.
Who was the Duke of Wellington?
The Duke of Wellington (1769 – 1852), also know as Arthur Wellesley, was one of the leading military and political figures in Britain during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He also served twice as British prime minister. Wellington is best known for defeating Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo in 1815 (cue the ABBA song!) which ended a 23-year war and the French’s attempts to dominate Europe. A renowned general, particularly known for his stunning defensive skills, his battle plans are still studied in military academies today.
In 1822, Wellington experienced significant hearing loss in his left ear, caused when an artillery gun that he was inspecting fired close to his ear. A hearing specialist made matters worse by pouring silver nitrate solution into the ear, not realizing that his eardrum had been 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 Hard to Treat in the Mid-1800s
Wellington likely received the very best hearing care available at the time. But his hearing devices were rudimentary, particularly by today’s standards. Consisting of ivory earpieces attached to everyday items, they lacked not only today’s digital prowess but also ease of use.
A few examples of Wellington’s hearing aids are below.
Hearing aid headband
This one was worn like a headband. The sound traveled into the metal band through the central hole and then down to the ivory earpieces. Only one of the earpieces remained.
Hearing aid walking stick
Wellington used this device as both a walking stick and a hearing aid when he attended parliament. The speaker spoke into the cup at the top of the handle while Wellington listened through the ivory earpiece.
It’s a Good Time to Have Hearing Loss
Having hearing loss is no picnic, but we certainly have it better than the Duke of Wellington did. Hearing aid technology is rapidly advancing and new public listening systems are under development. Meanwhile, Hearing Loss Association of America and others continue to advocate for better communication access. Numerous resources are available for people with hearing loss, including this blog, our book, Hear & Beyond: Live Skillfully with Hearing Loss and many Facebook groups. The future for people with hearing loss looks even brighter.
Readers, what do you think about these hearing aids from years past?
Related Posts
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter!
The walking stick seems similar to the hearing horns I’ve seen but that headband is a new one. can’t imagine either was very helpful though!
I agree! Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Thanks! This gives me perspective. I wear two CI’s. A long way from the Duke’s hearing aid/walking stick.
We have come a long way! Thanks for your comment.