20/08/2025
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Normal museum admission applies
Event information
Time
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Price
Normal museum admission applies

The Centre for Computing History, Unit 1, Rene Court, Coldhams Road, Cambridge CB1 3EW

Who

In this talk, developer, geek, and digital archaeologist, Steven Goodwin, breaks down the very first program ever written to explain what it does and how it works. He covers the background of Ada and Charles Babbage (the father of computing who designed both the difference and analytical engines), and goes on to simulate the first program in an easy-to-understand manner.

He finishes up with a discussion on the controversy surrounding her involvement in computing, aiming to answer the question once and for all - "Was she really the first programmer?"

This will be open to all general visitors (all welcome but ideally suited to ages 7+). Please note that all under 14s must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Booking essential.

 

This event is part of Summer at the Museums 2025.

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Farmland Museum logo and text "Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum Life in the Fens" with clipart of countryside objects and animals around the outside.
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Crafts are included with standard admission.

Discover weekly family fun at the Farmland Museum with hands-on crafts celebrating Fenland life -from countryside creatures to mighty farm machines. 
 

Find out more >
Individuals seated on the grass, engaged in conversation and relaxation
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Farmland Museum logo and text "Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum Life in the Fens" with clipart of countryside objects and animals around the outside.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Crafts are included with standard admission.

Discover weekly family fun at the Farmland Museum with hands-on crafts celebrating Fenland life -from countryside creatures to mighty farm machines. 

Find out more >
Farmland Museum logo and text "Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum Life in the Fens" with clipart of countryside objects and animals around the outside.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Crafts are included with standard admission.

Discover weekly family fun at the Farmland Museum with hands-on crafts celebrating Fenland life - from countryside creatures to mighty farm machines. 
 

Find out more >
Farmland Museum logo and text "Denny Abbey and the Farmland Museum Life in the Fens" with clipart of countryside objects and animals around the outside.
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Crafts are included with standard admission.

Discover weekly family fun at the Farmland Museum with hands-on crafts celebrating Fenland life - from countryside creatures to mighty farm machines. 

Find out more >