Join us at The National Museum of Computing to mark the 60th anniversary of the first ICT 1301, more fondly known as Flossie, with the launch of a new virtual, 3D, interactive and immersive experience.
Sixty years ago, in April 1962, the University of London took delivery of Flossie - a milestone machine in British computing history and the first in a line of ICT 1301 computers. The 1301 was the first business system from up-and-coming manufacturer ICT, which harnessed the then-new technologies in memory and transistors. More than 150 ICT 1301s were sold across the UK and internationally, making it one of the first mass-produced British business computers.
Sixty years later, just three 1301's remain and only one in working order - the very first, Flossie, now part of TNMOC's collection. We’re marking the 60th anniversary of her delivery to the University of London by giving this 5.5-ton, punched-card giant a new lease of life as an interactive, online experience: the Virtual Flossie.
Our Virtual Flossie will give computer fans of all abilities the opportunity to operate this historical computer through a browser or device, using virtual punch cards to obtain real-world results. Attendees at the launch event for the Virtual Flossie on Saturday 30th April 2022 will have the opportunity to meet the mastermind and creator behind the Virtual Flossie, preview the accompanying pop-up exhibition (including a video appearance from the pioneering Dame Stephanie “Steve” Shirley) and meet those who used and were instrumental in rescuing Flossie.
Schedule for the Day:
10:30: Museum opens to the public
11:00: Refreshments served in the Meeting Room
11:00-12:30: Visitors are invited to explore the Museum
12:30-13:30: Live Q&A with Rod Brown and Stuart Fyfe (Livestreamed for virtual attendees)
13:30-14:15: Lunch/Networking in the First Generation Gallery
14:15-15:00: Live Q&A with Virtual Flossie's creator, Martin Gillow(Livestreamed for virtual attendees)
15:00-17:00: Visitors are invited to explore the Museum.
Refreshments (tea, coffee, juice, water and biscuits) and a buffet lunch will be provided.
