Among his technological innovations, which were not developed until long after his death, are the incandescent light bulb, submarine telegraphy and arc welding.

Unfortunately, his claims are not well documented but, in July 1835, Lindsay did demonstrate a constant electric lamp at a public meeting in Dundee, Scotland.

In order to maximise its effectiveness, it was desirable to lay another line on dry land, which exceeded the width of water to be traversed.

Like Preston Watson, the Dundee pioneer of flight, Lindsay possessed neither the will nor the sheer ruthlessness to promote his innovations as effectively as he might.

A deeply religious and humane person, he refused the offer of a post at the British Museum so that he could care for his aged mother.

His concern with electric light was mainly prompted by the need to provide a safe method of illuminating the jute mills, where severe fires had devastated the lives of the workers.