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Lancashire Pioneers - Sir James Mackenzie M.D.

His polygraph

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MacKenzie's Ink Polygraph
Mackenzie's Ink Polygraph

In 1892, he pioneered the use of the clinical polygraph, an instrument for recording the vascular pulses. 

The ink polygraph, which made him famous, was devised with the help of a Padiham watchmaker, Sebastian Shaw, and appeared in 1906.

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Although he had a busy working life, he also found time for other pursuits. 

He was a member of the Burnley Literary and Scientific Club, a keen chess player, enjoyed bridge, billiards and tennis and was a 'Prime mover' in the foundation of Hapton Golf Club. 

He also wrote a novel, entitled 'The Shuttle and Loom' which describes working life in late 19th century Lancashire.

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