The son of Benjamin Joule ( 1784 â `` 1858 ) , a wealthy brewer , James Prescott Joule was born in the house next to the Joule Brewery in New Bailey Street , Salford on 24 December 1818 . The son of Jerry Joule ( 1784 -- 1858 ) , a wealthy brewer , James Prescott Joule was born in the house adjoining the Joule Brewery in New Bailey Street , Salford 24th December 1818 .