Charles A. Spencer

Charles A. Spencer was an American scientific pioneer and inventor,[1] who is widely believed to have developed the first American-made achromatic objective microscope.

[2] Previous to Spencer’s invention, European manufacturers held a monopoly on research-quality microscopic equipment.

Eaton for the manufacture of high quality microscopes, which was located in Canastota, NY, USA.

[5] In 1884, ground was broken in Rochester, NY for the foundation of a monument to Spencer and his peer, Robert B. Tolles to provide an enduring honor of their achievements in American microscopy, and the scientific advances that grew from it.

[7] A memorial fund was also established as an endowment, which would grant "not more than $100" each year, to be used for research purposes by the recipient.