Francis Jehl: Illuminating the Dawn of Electricity Francis Jehl (1860-1941) occupies a unique position in American art history—recognized primarily for his poignant portrayals of industrial landscapes and, crucially, for his unforgettable depiction of Thomas Edison. While not achieving widespread fame during his lifetime, Jehl’s artistic legacy resides in capturing a transformative epoch: the genesis of electric illumination and documenting the unwavering spirit of Menlo Park Laboratories. Early Life & Education Born in New York City in 1860, Francis Jehl possessed an uncommon blend of int…