Also known as a thermometer screen, the Stevenson screen houses meteorological instruments. These instruments include dry and wet bulb thermometers, which are used to measure air temperature and humidity.
Held by legs, the Stevenson screens are 1.25m/4.1ft above the ground. It stands this way not to be impacted by strong winds. The sides of the screens are louvered to allow passing air to enter. They are white, which helps reflect heat, for black attracts heat. It was created by engineer Sir Thomas Stevenson, who also is credited for creating many lighthouses.