From Nationalclubgolfer · Matt Chivers · · 1m 10s
Golfer William Willett and Daylight Saving
William Willett, a 19th-century British builder, inspired daylight saving time through his golf passion.
In brief
William Willett, a 19th-century British builder, inspired daylight saving time through his golf passion. William Willett, a Surrey builder, proposed daylight saving time in 1907 to save lighting costs and improve evening recreation. Originally reported by Nationalclubgolfer.
Daylight Saving Time Origin
William Willett, a Surrey builder, proposed daylight saving time in 1907 to save lighting costs and improve evening recreation.
Willett's Golf Connection
Willett was a keen golfer with connections to Chislehurst Golf Club, a venue he helped establish in the 1890s.
1907 Pamphlet Proposal
In 1907, Willett published a pamphlet titled 'The Waste of Daylight', arguing for daylight saving time to save £2.5 million annually in lighting costs.
Willett's Proposed System
Willett suggested advancing clocks by 20 minutes on four Sundays in April before reversing in September, rather than the current one-hour shift.
World War Impact
World War I led to the 1916 Summer Time Act, moving clocks forward by one hour, after Willett died in 1915.
Willett's Legacy
Willett is buried at St Nicholas Church in Chislehurst with a memorial sundial and blue plaque honoring his contribution.
The main idea
William Willett, a Surrey builder, proposed daylight saving time in 1907 to save lighting costs and improve evening recreation.
