Crystal Palace has always been a place of industry and invention. In 1854 the Crystal Palace was moved from Hyde Park to Sydenham Hill, giving the area it's name.

Important innovation in the area began as early as 1888, when Thomas Edison first sent recordings made on his Improved Phonograph to Colonel George E. Gouraud (his agent in England).

In 1933 John Logie Baird moved the Baird television company to Crystal Palace and began broadcasting from the south tower.

The Crystal Palace itself burned down in 1936 and the current BBC transmitter was erected on the site in 1950.

The area has had a history of audio electronics manufacturers, including Tannoy and Watkins and The British Vintage Wireless and Television Museum is just down the road in Dulwich.