The Difference Engine: One-Day Summit

Some wonder what would have happened had Charles Babbage finished his fantastic machine called the Difference Engine in the early 19th century. Some say that maybe, just maybe, all of the world would have changed. With the power of his computer, the Victorians might have overcome so many of the engineering limits that held them back. Hence, we could have had a 21st century technological society built on brass and steam. It would have been a Victorian science fiction world as envisioned by writers such as Jules Verne. In other words, it would have been a Steampunk world.

In Fort Worth, Texas there will soon be a new Steampunk convention aptly named, The Difference Engine. While the actual three-day convention won’t be until December 30, 2011, on June 4th there will be a preview that the organizers call a One-Day Summit. A unique aspect of this One-Day Summit will be, among the usual panels and vendors, an ongoing murder mystery play that attendants can follow as the day proceeds.



So what does all of this have to do with Dieselpunk? My wife and I will be at the One-Day Summit presenting a panel on Dieselpunk. We’ll be using audio and visual technology to cover the philosophy of Dieselpunk along with the Dieselpunk lifestyle with its music, fashion, movie and art.

Therefore, if you’re in Texas on June 4, 2011 swing by the Radisson Hotel in Fort Worth to enjoy the convention and stop by to see our presentation. Registration opens at 9 am. The actual Summit starts at 10:00 AM and concludes with a dance starting at 11:30 and going to 2:00 AM the next morning. Tickets are $20.00 per person. Children 10 and under are free if accompanied by a paid Adult.

You can visit their web site at You can visit their web site at http://www.the-difference-engine.info/