Appendix T
Selected Documents Related to the Water Works and Fire Apparatus

27. March 1819

The Subscribers haveing leveled from the doric pavillion to the Springs on the mountain--find the two first to be 6. feet above the water table--at the distance of 1,100 yards--one hundred yards further is another Spring 26. feet above the water table of pavillion--and Still further--Say abut 60 yards there is another 75 feet above the sd. level--all of these are bold good Springs--the furtherest Spring--1,260. yards from the pavillion--as near as we Could tell by Steping it of[f]

Jas. Dinsmore

John M. Perry

DS, in Perry's writing, ViU:TJ, 1p [1658] with address "The Visitors of the University present" and TJ docket "Dinsmore & Perry levelling."

Honoured Sir New York 5th. Jan 1820

After having promised to see you in person and to undertake the management of One of Your Cisterns in Nov. last, I Can Scarcely tell what to Say in extenuation unless it is to beg pardon if I have given any disappointment; the fact is time was so Slipped thro' my fingers in a manner I Cannot well Account for, and untill the presnt moment, I have not had the Satisfaction of informing you that I have at last finishd my Labours, with regard to those models in terra Cotta which your taste in the fine Arts has done me the Honour to patronize, they are Shipped on the 23. Dec on board The Schooner Rising States, & Consigned to Captain Peyton to whom I must beg your goodness to write that they may be carefully conveyed to Monticello I must also take the liberty of requesting you to Inform Mr Randolph and Mrs Bankhead as to the tenor of this letter; & untill I have the Pleasure of Seeing you which I hope will be very Soon, Sir pleased to Accept my best Wishes, Sr. I am Respectfully Yours

William J: Coffee

NB In One of the Cases are two Busts of Mr Jefferson Randolph, One of which I have the Pleasure of requesting Mrs Randolphs Acceptance

ALS, DLC:TJ, 2p, with TJ docket "Coffee Wm. J. New York Jan. 5. 20. recd Jan. 16."

Sir, Lynchburg Octr. 7th. 1819

Having farther considered the subject relative to the Water works since my return, I take the liberty of suggesting for your consideration, the propriety of having the Reservoir on the Mountain, placed in such a Situation, as to take the water of all the springs in at the top, and the pipes leading to the university to run from the bottom, on that plan you would have the command of all the water of the reservoir without the trouble of pumping, and in case of Fire the Water would flow in the greatest abundance, a handsome Jet d'eau might be formd with the overplus water if it was thought proper--if this plan would meet your approbation a circular Reservoir made of Oak Plank 2½ or 3 Inches thick, to hold 30 or 40 thousand Gallons, would answer it might be sunk sufficiently deep to have a Brick arch to cover it, tis my opinion a Vessel properly made and well bound with Iron would last 30 Years or much longer. with much respect, I remain Sir Your Obedt. Servant

James Wade

ALS, ViU:PP, 1p, with ASB docket "James Wade Oct 7th '19 Postg 11 Cts."

Richmond 1st. June 1821

Received of Andrew Smith five Casks of Roman Cement in good Order, which I promise to deliver in like good Order to A. S. Brockenbrough Esqr or Order at Jeffersons Mill on being paid the Customary freight

Witness Peter x Henderson

Chs D Gardner Captn of Wm. Johnstons Boat

Dear Sir Richmond 1st June 1821

Enclosed I hand you Peter Hendersons Receipt for the five Barrels of Roman Cement--and a printed instruction for using the Same--in haste Dr Sir Yours

Andw Smith

ALS, ViU:PP, 1p, with ASB docket "A. Smith 1st June 1821." Smith sent Brockenbrough a second copy of Henderson's receipt on 2 June. In the loose receipts for 1821 in ViU:PP is William Fitch's receipt accepting delivery of the cement: "Milton 7 June 1821 William Johnson has deliverd five Bls Cement on a/c the university (weighed one bbl. 366. lbs) W D Fitch." Another receipt in the same location for the wagonage from Milton to the university reads: "June 8 1821 Recd of the Proctor a draft on the Bursar of the University of Va two Dollars 75 cents for the Waggonage of 5 casks of cement from Milton and 1 Hhd of Plaster for Joseph Antrim." A third receipt in the loose receipts for 1822 reads: "Richmond 10th. Novr. 1822 A. S. Brockenbrough Esqr Bot.of Andw Smith 4 Barrels Roman Cement @ 9$--36-- [+] pd. Dragage & toll .76 [=] $36.76 Received payment Andw Smith."

For the one-page printed instructions for making roman cement that Smith sent Brockenbrough, see Directions for Making Roman Cement, 1 June 1821, in ViU:PP.

[1 June 1821]

NO. 55 SMITH'S WHARF, BALTIMORE.

Directions for using the Roman Cement, in making Tanks, Cisterns, Drains, Ponds, Docks, the Fronts of Wharves, Vaults, Sewers, and every kind of Brick and Stone Work, in which Strength is required, or where Wet or Damp are to be excluded.

AFTER the bricks or stones upon which the Cement is to be applied, have been well soaked with water, (which is necessary to make it adhere firmly,) mix the Cement as quickly as possible, with as much water as will make it of the consistency of mortar; much water spoils it. Mix no more at once than can be used in a few minutes, otherwise it will set, and become unfit for use. Lay it on with as little handling as possible, and leave it the instant it begins to set.

For facing Brick Fronts, equal in appearance and durability to stone-work, and which effectually preserves the walls from damp, is made by mixing equal quantities of Cement and sharp sand that has been washed clean, and thoroughly dried; use it with water in the manner above directed, making it into a thick paste, keeping the wall as wet as possible all the time--Be careful not to use lime with it. If the sand is not perfectly dry, it must not be added to the Cement until mixed for immediate use. Lay the Stucco on in one coat, not less than three quarters of an inch thick; to give it a good key, the joints of brick work must previously be raked. The effect of stone-work may be given by drawing joints on the Stucco, and by coloring it when dry with a wash composed of one gallon of water, four ounces of copperas, and as much fresh lime and Cement, or umber, or ochre, as will produce the colour required, and may at any future time be repeated; giving the building a new appearance at a very trifling expense.

This Stucco forms an excellent flooring and facing for the inside of walls in the basements of buildings, and secures them from damp. If a very wet situation, lay it on the outside.

A yard square of plain surface, in plastering, takes about half a bushel of Cement, mixed with an equal proportion of Sand. Be careful that the building is settled before the Cement is applied. It is often used in pointing tiles, chimney stacks, filleting, &c. for setting ridge tyles and chimney pots. It must be kept quite dry, and as free as possible from the air, to preserve its hardening quality.

For Stuccoing either old or new buildings, to produce the effect of Stone.--As this Cement will set under water as well as above, and stand even the action of the sea, it is used with the greatest success in every species of Water Works, for pointing fronts of Wharves, Docks or Bridges, and in making Reservoirs, Baths, Vats, Cisterns, &c. or in any situation where wet or damp is required to be kept out. Flat Roofs and Gutters may be made to answer all the purposes of Lead, at one fourth the expense.

Mix an equal quantity of Cement and sharp river Sand, with clean water, to the consistency of a thick Paste--apply it immediately on the Walls, hand-floating it in the usual way of plastering.

Rake out the Joints, cleanse the Walls from any former Stucco, and make them as wet as possible, all the time it is being laid on.

Particular attention is required to use a clean, sharp Sand, not to make the Stucco too thin with Water, nor to mix more than can be used in ten minutes. After it has once set, it will not be fit for use again.

No Lime must be used with the Cement.

For every purpose of plastering, the Cement or Stucco should not be laid on less than three quarters of an inch thick.

It may be coloured when finished, with a wash to produce the effect of Portland or any other Stone desired.

A cask will Stucco about 12 yards.

When the Cement is used for BRICK WORK UNDER WATER, or to keep out Damp, no Sand is to be mixed with it, but worked genuine instead of common Mortar.

2 oz. Green Copperas,

3 oz. Alum,

2 oz. Oil of Vitriol,

1 quart of Milk,

To which add about a quart of Beer Grounds, and the remainder of Water, with a sufficiency of Lime to bring it to the consistency of common White-wash; if thicker, it is liable to peel off. It is usual to lay on a first coat of this wash, afterwards bringing it to any shade of color required, according to the Stone, or the fancy of the country, by the addition of Umber, Red or Yellow Ochre, Blue, Black, &c.; and after a second coat is laid on, (the first being dry,) the work may be finished by tinting or shading with the above colors, to give as much as possible the various shades of Stone, imitating either New or Old Portland, Granite, Yorkshire, Purbeck, &c.

This CASK must be kept quite dry, and not opened till the contents are to be used, as exposure to the Air will totally destroy the hardening quality of the Cement.

D (printed), 1p, ViU:PP. Andrew Smith sent this circular to Brockenbrough on 1 June 1821. At the top of the page Smith wrote "For Sale by Andw Smith, Richmond, Virga." and Brockenbrough's docket on the verso reads "Roman cement Directions for using."

Dear Sir Richmond 2d. June 1821

I yesterday forwarded, agreeably to your instructions, five Casks of Roman Cement, to Jeffersons Mill, per Mr. Wm. Johnstons Boat, which I hope may arrive safe--I enclosed you printed Instructions for making and using it, which I hope may be acceptable--you'l observe that great care is necessary in preventing exposure to air or damp--

Annexed is Captn Hendersons Receipt for the 5 Casks, and a Bill of the Same--amot--$48--45--being as low, if not more so, than you can procure the genuine Cement elsewhere  I am Dr Sir Your Mo Obt

Andw Smith

ALS, ViU:PP, 1p, with address "Arthur S. Brockenbrough Esqr Charlottesville Virginia" and ASB docket "A Smith Richd. 1st June 1821 Bill Roman cement." The copy of Henderson's receipt, nearly identical with the one Smith sent Brockenbrough on 1 June, is in the loose receipts for 1821 in ViU:PP. The bill for $48.45 has not been identified; Brockenbrough apparently paid it in July (see Charles Gardner to Brockenbrough, 6 September).

Dear Sir Monticello April 15. 25.

I have received a proposition from Mr. Perry, the owner of the lands which separate the two tracts of the University which I think of so much importance to that institution as to communicate to the visitors by letter in their separate situations. the University tract of 100. acres is ¾ of a mile distant from that of the Observatory of 153 acres. the water which supplies the cisterns of the University by pipes arises in the mountain a little without this last tract, and the pipes pass on Perry's side of the line and thro' his interjacent lands till they enter the University tract. on his side of the line also is a very bold spring, which might be brought by a small ditch so near the buildings of the University as to be of common use. it is in his power at any time to cut off our pipes and deprive us of that indispensable supply of water. we have always been anxious to purchase this interjacent parcel not only to consolidate our two tracts but to secure the supply of water; but we have never more than intimated a willingness to purchase without pressing him, lest it might induce him to ask an unreasonable price. he is under (as I believe) some pressure which obliges him now to sell it. he gives us the refusal, which if we do not accept, he will sell in lots as he can readily do. we gave him about four years ago 45. D. an acre for the 50. acres adjacent to it. since that, lands around the University have got to 100. & 130. D. the acre. he offered the parcel in question to the University for 60. D. I refused to treat with him at that, and told him that at 50. D. I would lay it before the Visitors for consideration. he at length agreed, stipulating for 3,000. D. in hand, one half of the balance at the end of one year, and the other half at the end of the second, with interest from the date. on these terms I cannot but strongly recommend it's purchase. if once it is sold out in lots we shall never be able to buy again but at exorbitant rates if at all, and our supply of water will assuredly be cut off from us. what passes thro' our present pipes with the additional spring will give us the most abundant supply of that element for ever. that you may judge of our means of paying for it, I send you a statement of our income and expenditure for the present and the two next years, drawn up on consultation with mr Brockenbrough.⁽⁸⁷⁴⁾ you will perceive that I propose to borrow the 1st. payment of 3,000. D. from the library fund, which can be repaid from our general funds the next year, in addition to our 2nd payment of 2,067. D. to Perry, and still leaving a surplus of 2,679. D. for contingencies that year; and that the same funds will make our 3d and last payment of 2,184. D. in 1827, leaving a contingent surplus for that year of 3,094. D. the library fund can well spare the money for a while, as we need not use of it for a year or two more than 40,000. D. leaving 10,000. for mineralogical and geological collections which may be deferred without inconvenience. my own opinion therefore is that we can make the purchase without any danger of embarrassment, and that if not made now it will be for ever lost. the part which I think indispensable contains about 100. acres but it would be better to take in also the 37. acres as it squares our lines, and the timber on it is worth the price.

Although the subject is of great and permanent interest to the University, I have not thought of proposing a meeting on it, of the great inconvenience of which to the gentlemen I am sensible, and the rather as the sketch of the grounds which I send you, and the prospect of payment can be considered as well separately as together. the only article in the statement of our finances which does not rest on certainty is the number of students calculated on for the next year. for this year I have calculated only on the number now entered 68. and they are coming in nearly every day, and at the summer vacation of the other schools, when they will be disengaged we know that a large number will come, and that in the course of the year we shall be over 100. that we shall have as many the next year as our Dormitories will lodge all information assures us, and probably as many additional to that as Charlottesville can accommodate, which is expected to be about 100. and would add 1,500. D. to our income. as far as we can judge not one will go to Charlottesville as long as a dormitory is to be had. as yet there has not been a single application to that place altho' several housekeepers there had prepared themselves to take in boarders. if this purchase is approved by your separate letters, I will undertake to act on them as if regularly ordered by the board, as you can pass a vote of confirmation at our first meeting. Perry is pressing (as I believe he is pressed) for an immediate answer.⁽⁸⁷⁵⁾

All our professors are in place except Mr Tucker, daily expected, and the Professor of law whom we have yet to name. we await Mr Tucker's arrival to form a board of faculty that the Professors may enter on their functions of order and discipline which some incipient irregularities of the students begin to call for. from a view which I took of their ages when the whole number was 61. I found 6. of 21. and upwards, 9. of 20--23. of 19--10. of 18--10. of 17--and 3. of 16. two thirds therefore being 19. and upwards we may hope are of sufficient discretion to govern themselves, and that the younger 3d. by their example as well as by moderate coercion will not be very difficult to keep in order.

I enclose you a printed copy of our regulations which appear to give satisfaction to both Professors and Students. Accept the assurance of my great esteem & respect⁽⁸⁷⁶⁾

Th: Jefferson

P.S. the Printed regulns are omitted, having been forwarded by mr Brockenbrough.

LS, ViU:Cocke Papers, 3p [2171] with JHC docket "Mr. Jefferson recd. Apl. 29. 25"; LS, ViU:Cabell Papers [2171] with JCC docket "Thos. Jefferson Apl. 15. 1825."; LS, DLC:JM; ADftS, DLC:TJ, dated 16 April; printed, Cabell, The Early History of the University of Virginia, 348-50; extract, in Cocke's "Extracts from TJ's Letters to JHC," ViU:Cocke Papers. The closings and signatures of the two recipient copies are in TJ's writing, as is the postscript of the LS sent to Cocke; the ADftS and the LS sent to Cabell lacks the postscript. TJ apparently sent each Board of Visitors member a copy of this letter with a two-page estimate of expenditures for the university. A map of the land, in TJ's hand, is in DLC:JM, as well as Madison's draft of his reply to TJ of 21 April.

Dear Sir University of Va Augt 20. 1826

I informed you some little time ago that my health required some relaxation from business and that for the improvement of it I wished to take a trip for a few days to Striblings Springs in augusta--I find at this time I can go with greater convenience to the business of the institution than at a later period--As you will probably be up in a few days, I beg leave to draw your attention to two or three things here--The Faculty wish to be arranging the books in the Library--I find D & Neilson will not be able to get up the hand rail & Balasters to the Stairs so as to secure the room in a fortnight from this agreeable to their own acct.--if we are to be governed by their former promises and engagements, it will probably be double that time--there are a sufficiency of Book cases made to begin with and as it will take some four or five weeks to get them in place, perhaps it would be better that a temporary partition be put up at the head of the Stairs, if you approve of this plan, you can direct D & N. to have it done, I fear unless some plan of this sort is adopted the Library will not be in place before the meeting of the Visitors--The next thing to call your attention to is to the expence of the anatomical hall, I do not recollect how the roof is finished agreeable to Mr Js: design, but I find D & Neilson is geting timber for an expencive chines raling around the top, this, if left me whether the original design or not, I think I should stop, a plain plinth like Pavilion No 8 over the Cornice is quite sufficient. this matter you will please direct as You think proper, the McAdamizing of the cross streets will be finished in a day or two--I have instructed the overseer then to put the Labourer in the Botanical garden (after doing a few small jobs) under the direction of Dr Emmet. I should be glad to know of you as soon as convenient what number of labourers we had better employ another year, so that arrangements may be made for the employment of an overseer for the next year--on my return I intend to have another coat of Metal put over such parts of streets as require it--I am Sir respectfully Your Obt Sevt

A. S. Brockenbrough

P.S. Some additional water works are absolutely necessary--whether it shall be by pumps or otherwise I am at a loss to determine--If Water from the Mountain could be gotten in sufficient quantity I should prefer it, the stream is weak, and would hardly justify the expence--if brought from the Mountain the best way would be to have a large cistern in my yard (being the highest situation near the University,) the water from thence to be conveyed in pipes to every part of the University the works to be so constructed to let off any quantity at a given time that may be required for the supply of the buildings or in case of fire--This requires money tho' of which we have very little

A. S B--h

ALS, ViU:JHC, 3p, with address "Genl John H. Cocke Bremo Fluvanna Co" and JHC docket "Brockenbrough A. S. recd. Aug. 19."

Dear Sir Philadelphia Aug 11. 1827

Your Esteemed favour of the 4th. inst. Relative to Fire Apparatus most suitable for the Use of your University, claims our best attention, Under all the circumstances of the Case, we are induced to Recommend the Hydraulion of 16 Man Power as preferable to any other form of Engine within our knowledge it being the most simple Eficient and Economical Araingment of the forcing pump now in use, having a Reel capable of carrying from 800 to 1,000 feet of hose, and costing but 450 Dollars . It will deliver as much water with as good an efect as the Double Chamber Engine which Costs 650 to 700 Dollars, we beg leave to Refer you to the annexed list of prices and Circular, as also the plate which is a description or plain of that Class Hyraulion, with the manner of opperation.--We are building, One large Hyraulion for the City of Richmond, and two do. for Alexandria in Virginia with 3 to 4,000. feet of hose &c &c--also One 16 man power Hyl. for Washington City⁽⁸⁷⁷⁾--Respectfully and Sincerely, Your friends

Sellers & Pennock

owing to the engagements now on hand it is doubtfull wether we could execute an order before the Coming Winter--C Sellers--

LS, ViU:PP, 1p, with address "Arthur S. Brockenbrough University Virginia" and ASB docket "Sellers & Pennock Augt. 11. 1827--" The Philadelphia postmark is dated 12 August. Above the letter Brockenbrough wrote an estimate of the cost of the hydraulion, $450 for the engine, $120 for 200 feet of hose, for a total of $570. The LS and its cover is written on the back of the two-page printed circular and list of prices for the hydraulion. Sellers & Pennock's separate one-page printed circular for preserving the hose follows the list of prices for the hydraulion.

[11 August 1827]

THE Subscribers, encouraged by the favourable reception given to their improved method of manufacturing Hose, by connecting with metallic rivets the edges of the leather of which that article is fabricated; and having been successful in the introduction of other important improvements in the method of extinguishing fires, suggested by their long experience as firemen, have formed an establishment for furnishing all kinds of Fire Apparatus on improved plans of construction.

The Patent Rivetted Hose is confidently offered to the attention of the citizens of the United States, as possessing advantages which could never be obtained from the sewed hose, the perishable quality of the thread seam rendering the latter a very imperfect conduit for water on any occasion, and totally inadequate to a high pressure. The disuse of the sewed hose in this city, and its complete substitution by the Rivetted Hose, of which upwards of 20,000 feet are now used by our firemen, are ample testimonals of its superiority.

By employing hose for conveying hose for conveying water to fires, the formation of lanes, always attended with delay, from the difficulty of immediately procuring a sufficient number of men and buckets, and organizing the former, is avoided. A hose of 100 feet in length will supercede the services of sixty persons, and will cost much less than the number of buckets requisite for keeping up a supply through the extent; and, though the use of hose, in this respect, is particularly adapted to such towns or villages, as are supplied with water from an elevated reservoir, the same object is advantageously obtained by departing from the usual custom of placing the engine near the fire, stationing it wherever the water can be most conveniently obtained, and thence propelling the water to the fire, through hose, by the power of the engine. Should the water to be obtained, proceed from a common pump, it may be conveyed through hose, to a considerable distance horizontally, the hose being attached to the pump, by a screw inserted in the side of the latter, or by a short tube or piece of hose, having at one end a lap or flange, by which it may be girded to the nose of the pump.

In the transmission of water from the engine to the fire, the use of hose is conspicuously beneficial. It is presumed that not more than one fourth of the stream, projected from a fire engine, without hose to confine and conduct it, is usefully applied. Most of the water never reaches the matter in combustion, and is therefore wasted. Beside, it is all important, that the water thrown on the burning material, should be in a compact form; for, when it is thrown into an intense flame, in the form of spray, it is decomposed, and its component gases, instead of diminishing, increase the vigour of the destroying element.

At a time when water is of so much consequence, the loss of three-fourths of the quantity is a serious evil, the only remedy for which, is to be found in attaching hose to the engine, and conveying its water through this flexible conductor, to the spot where it is discovered to be most wanted. All the water is then applied in the best way, and, in the early stages of fire, the most beneficial result may be anticipated.

The Hydraulion is designed to carry the above views into effect, in the most convenient and economical manner. It combines all the purposes of a fire engine with a carriage for conveying the hose, at a price considerably less than the cost of an engine of similar power, on the old construction: thus, by reducing this part of the expense of a complete fire establishment, the means are reserved for providing a greater quantity of hose. The method of operating with the Hydraulion is, to proceed directly to the fire, and thence to the nearest supply of water; the hose being discharged from the reel, as the carriage proceeds to the place where the water is to be obtained. The end of the hose near the fire, having the branch pipe attached to it, is immediately conveyed into that part of the building where the water may be applied to the most advantage, while the other end of the hose, or so much of it as has been discharged from the reel, is attached to the screw of the Hydraulion; the reservoir is then filled, if from a pump, by the means before designated, or if from a pond, by a few buckets, carried with the machine. Twenty men are sufficient to put into complete operation the Hydraulion and hose, and to perform the services which, by the old method, the number employed in lanes being taken into view, required hundreds to execute.

The importance of immediate action, on the discovery of fire, is obvious. A few men, sufficient to manage the Hydraulion, may be readily convened; but when numerous hands, and their organization into lanes, are requisite, delay is inevitable; and such delay may occasion a total destruction of property.

The above method of operating with the Hydraulion, is exhibited in the plate prefixed to this Circular. When required, the machine, at an extra charge, is so constructed as to draw its water from a pond, or other source, by Suction. In lieu of the common suction hose, the plan of a metallic pipe, consisting of several tubes connected by swivel joints, has been devised, and is much preferred. The addition of a suction apparatus ought not however to be made, when the expense would interfere with the more important provision of an ample supply of hose.

A Hydraulion for the security of mills and factories, is also constructed. It consists of the pump part of the Fire Hydraulion placed in a substantial Box or Reservoir, which is usually attached to the Forebay, from which it draws its water, and is worked by the power of the mill. By means of Hose, or of stationary iron pipes connected with the Hydraulion, and communicating with the several apartments of the Building, a copious supply of water, may, by the agency of one person, be almost instantaneously conveyed into any room where it may be desired.

Swivel screws for the hose, on a much improved construction; rivetted fire buckets, more neat, substantial and durable than the sewed; and all varieties of apparatus, subordinate to the above plans, for the extinguishment of fires, are furnished by the Subscribers. They make also Fire Engines, on the old construction, when ordered.

Directions will accompany the Hose and Hydraulion for keeping them in proper condition, and for applying the instruments used in repairing the former.

Prompt attention will be given to all commands, and the articles furnished will be executed in the most substantial manner. Payment to be made in Philadelphia, upon completion of the order.

SELLERS & PENNOCK,

No. 231 Market Street, Philadelphia.

Dolls. Cts.

Leading Hose, single rivetted, formed of leather, 9 inches wide, of prime quality, and

of substance adequate to 100 feet pressure. Diameter 2½ inches Per foot .60

Same quality and substance of leather, 8 inches wide. Diameter 2½ inches .55

Engine Hose, single rivetted, of leather 8 inches wide, of extra substance, sustaining a

pressure of upwards of 200 feet. Diameter 2 3-8 inches .60

Double rivetted, leather 9 inches wide, of substance and fabric to sustain the highest

pressure. Diameter 2 5-8 inches .70

The above prices are predicated upon the use of tinned iron rivets and burrs, which are the

best where the water is fresh. The tutanag composition, or copper rivets and burrs,

used for salt water, form an additional charge per foot, of .5

Connecting Swivel Screws, per sett 4.25

Connecting Boxes, in lieu of swivel screws, per sett 3.00

Anvil and Compressor for repairing the hose 2.00

Fire Buckets, unpainted, per pair 4.00

painted and lettered in a plain style 5.00

do. do. ornamental 6.00

Hydraulion, of 16 men power, with a branch pipe and 10 feet double rivetted hose,

projecting water from the end of the hose the usual distance of fire engines,

and calculated to carry from 600 to 1000 feet of hose 450.00

Of 8 men power, calculated to carry 500 feet of hose; with fixtures 325.00

Other powers and capacities in proportion.

Suction Apparatus, including 20 feet jointed metallic suction pipe, with provision for

carrying it, forms an additional charge to the Hydraulion of 125.00

Mill Hydraulion, with branch pipe and 10 feet of hose as above; having a 7 inch

chamber and 9 inch stroke, equal to Hydraulion of 16 men power 175.00

Ditto 8½ inch chamber, and 12 inch stroke 210.00

Cast Iron, instead of plank reservoirs, are furnished at an additional charge of 20.00

Hose one inch in diameter, for garden and domestic purposes, is made at 30 cents per foot; 1¼ inch at 37 cents per foot; screws and pipes suitable for the same are applied.

Rivetted Mill Bands, Elevator Straps and Buckets, Stage Braces, &c. are prepared in the best manner. These, with other articles not above enumerated, are offered at reasonable prices.

After the Hose has been used, it should be well washed to remove any dirt from it. Each section should then be separately suspended by the middle, to drain it; and if the Leather requires greasing, it should be taken down when about half dry, then dubbed and again suspended, until it becomes quite dry; when it should be placed on the Reel for service.

It is important that the Hose should be kept clean, flexible by occasional dubbing, and free from dampness; and that after use it should not be dried by a hot sun, or any great heat; but a small Stove may be advantageously used to impart a moderate warmth to facilitate the drying.

Should a Rivet fail when the Hose is in service, a string lashed tight round the place will prevent its leaking. To replace it, the repairing Anvil is attached to a wooden Rod of sufficient length to reach the place. The Rivet is then put between the prongs on the face of the Anvil, and conveyed, in this way, to the hole where it is to be inserted. When the Rivet is brought into its birth, a burr is placed upon its projecting end and partially driven by the application of the hollow end of the Compressor, so as to hold the Rivet in its place, while it is disengaged from the Spring. A fair bearing on the Anvil being now given to the Rivet, the Burr is forcibly driven down, and being there firmly held by the flat end of the Compressor, is secured by spreading, with a hammer, the projecting part of the Rivet.

Should it be necessary on any occasion to remove any of the rivets, it may be readily done, by severing the projecting ends of the rivets with a pair of strong cutting Nippers, or a Cutler's Saw.

SELLERS & PENNOCK,

Patentees and Manufacturers of Rivetted Hose,

philadelphia.

Dear Samuel Richmond Jany 16. 1829

I have just Returned from Saml. Parsons at the Pennitentiary and find the Post will close in ½ an hour, I just thought I would state what a difficulty I have got into, the Naomi has not yet been heard of--Merchants having goods on board her are offering from 10 to 15 pr. Ct. Insurance and great fears are entertained for her safety, the Steam boat has just left here for Norfolk that came up last night, the Captain says he made particular enquiry after her but she has not been seen or heard of on the Coast I am certainly placed on a Very Awkward predicament I know not what to do, the Corporation are not willing for me to leave here until her fate is desided, time hangs very heavy on my hands, I shall propose to them to go to Norfolk next first day, in the next steam boat--and if the Naomi should be there to take the Hydraulion on board so as to get here as early as possible, as the Schooner might be 10 days getting up the James River from Norfolk, Genl. Cock has just arrived and says he is Very glad the small Hydraulion for the University has been Insured--so that it was well we had it done--I still think the Naomi will come in as I attribute her detention intirely to the heavy fogs that prevail--I hope Charles may not commit an error in getting up the Assistance Engine⁽⁸⁷⁸⁾ tell him to be Very particular to the directions left him--And Write me by Return Mail of What I had better do, I thought if I was at Norfolk I should have a better chance of hearing the fate of the Vessel and if she was lost would be that far on my way home the Committee will meet on 7th. day next to consider my proposition I have just got well of a Very severe Cold, which had I staid at home would have been a job for the Doctor, I did nothing but Cough for 3 days until I was sore all over, with much fever, all of which the Southern Climate has gradually carried off--my spirits have been good until now, when I began to feel my staying here a week of time, I never saw so much anxiety to have a good fire Apparatus as the Citizens of this place display--(they have had some bad fires,) and will be greatly benefited by the Hose & Hydraulion it will add greatly to the security of all the lower town, which is as thickly built over as the closest built part of Philada. frame and brick mixed through each other--they will be great customers to us should the Hydrauler Arrive the hose they are delighted with--and will no doubt want as much more as soon as they see the effect [of] the system, Mr. Taylor is a Compleat fireman and enters fully into the spirit of it I have not time to Read this over, shew it to Sopa. in has[t]e

CS--

(I enquire every day for letters)

ALS, PPAmP:Patterson Papers, 2p.

Dear Sir Richd. Jan 19. 28

I have examined with much care the proposed plan for Supplying the University with water, offered by A S. Brockenbrough Esqr. and do highly approve of the same, with the exception of the Cisterns marked B and F not seeing the necesity for them, which probably may arise from my not knowing other Uses he may have designed them for--I would Respectfully submit, that the large cistern, which is intended to Receive the water from the mountain, would be the Only One necessary--and that it be Elevated not less than 20 feet, above the highest part of the lawn (say the bottom of the Cistern) and that the pipes have a bore of not less than 3 inches; and, if Economy be consulted, that they be of Iron. In wooden pipes the water is much obstructed by the offsets being at Right Angles, this is much relieved by the form of pipe discribed at letter C. plate C. in the Report of the Watering Committee, which will accompany this--At page 21. I have in lead pencil given the price of pipes for the Year 1828 at Philada. all other Castings at 50 Dollars pr. Tun--the termination of the fire plugs or Cocks should be in a box just below the surface of the ground, with a suitable but so as to be out of the Reach of Frost--we are the manufactures of a Brass Cock calculated for that purpose, to be used either to wood or Iron pipes, made in this form [drawing -- scan it in] with a standard screw for the Use of hose--In Relation to the Skylight, I can give you the method taken by Mr. Haviland to obviate the same defect in the great Skylight over the Arcade, which was to take off all the glass, and have them well cleaned, and Rubed with whiting so as to Remove any grease that might get on by handling &c then take white lead putty, (made with drying Oil and Tapan) and bed each Glass well into it--so as to Cement their edges together⁽⁸⁷⁹⁾--or Rather the surfaces when they over lap each other--this has proved effectual in the Above instance--and I have no doubt will answer your purpose--And am Respectfully your friend

Coleman Sellers

ALS, ViU:PP, 2p, with ASB docket "C. Sellers to Genl Cocke."

Windsor, Vermont, Dec. 8, 1828.

The AMERICAN HYDRAULIC COMPANY, recently incorporated by the Legislature of the State of Vermont, with a capital of One Hundred Thousand Dollars, having purchased from Messrs. Cooper, Phelps & Campbell the right of manufacturing COOPER'S PATENT ROTATIVE

Will receive and execute orders with promptness and fidelity, to any amount, on reasonable notice, either for the articles aforesaid, or for the conveying and supplying of water for cities or villages.

The principle having been fully tested and approved by the literary and scientific, as well as the practical mechanic, it may be deemed superfluous to add, here, any remarks upon the subject; and the following are subjoined merely for the information of those who are yet strangers to the invention:

The simplicity of its construction, its rotary motion, its admirable compactness and unquestioned durability, are advantages of this machine, over those on the old principle, or no slight importance. Independent of these advantages, there are others of still greater magnitude. It will raise and discharge double the quantity of water, in a given time; or, in other words, it requires the application of one half the power, only, to produce the same effect. It discharges a more dense column. It is as little affected by the frosts of a northern winter as by the heat of summer: and it can be made for one half the expence.

The fact is self-evident, that in operating the old Engines, to discharge the chamber or cylinder once, the piston must pass twice through it; an ascending stroke to create a vacuum, and a descending one to force the water. Half the time is consequently lost. In the rotative, on the contrary, it is equally evident, that a continued vacuum is created, and a continued discharge effected, by one and the same operation. As a further illustration of the point in question, it may be observed,

The air vessel is totally dispensed with, and the power is applied directly upon the water. It operates on no more than it discharges. On the other hand, as a consequence of the alternating motion of the piston Engines, twice the surface is acted upon, and the friction, of course, is comparatively two-fold. This is not all. The power necessary to overcome the inertia of the water is both exerted and suspended at every stroke of the piston. But in the rotative the current flows instantly, continuous, and uninterrupted.

Connected with this part of the subject is a fact of the first importance. The extreme necessity of prompt and efficient action in case of fire, is beyond controversy. A sufficient number of men to operate the rotative with effect, may be readily and easily convened, either in cities or villages, while a delay, waiting the arrival of the number necessary to work the old engines, might result in a total destruction of property.

Those acquainted with the old engines, know,by sad experience, the evils of frozen valves and obstructed pistons, and the necessity of resorting to means of thawing out the machine, or suffer it to remain useless, even at times of fire. But a single revolution of the rotative, discharges the ice that may have collected on the surface exposed, and an effective operation is not retarded for a moment.

It is apparent to the man of chemical science, if not to the common observer, that water, in the form of spray, thrown into an intense flame, is instantly decomposed, and, instead of diminishing, increases its fury. The advantage of the Rotative herein, as before observed, consists in dispensing with the air-vessel. In the old machine it is indispensable. Yet, notwithstanding its use and importance to them, it constantly imparts a portion of air to the water discharged, and thus far produces the evil complained of.

Hence it is evident, that the following are among the most material advantages of Cooper's Rotative Fire Engine, over all others hitherto invented, viz:

They are more simple in their construction, more durable, and less liable to get out of order.

The number of hands necessary to work them does not exceed one half.

They are proof, with proper care, against the effects of frost.

The column of water is more condensed, and consequently strikes with more effect.

And last, though not least in the estimation of the wise and prudent, they can be furnished for half the expence.

No. 1. Discharging one barrel per minute, 50 feet high, 80 feet distant; or through the hose, each 100 revolutions, two barrels: plain, and plain mounting, 4 men, $150--with extra finish, $175.

No. 2. Discharging from two to three barrels per minute, 60 feet high, 90 feet distant, or through the hose, each 100 revolutions, about 4 barrels; 8 men; plain, and plain mounting, $225.

No. 3. Discharging about 100 gallons per minute, 60 feet high, 90 feet distant; or through the hose, each 100 revolutions, about 150 gallons--8 men, plain, and plain mounting, $250.

No. 4. With arms of the size of No. 3, but with increased diameter, and suction throats, throwing more water; 12 men; plain, and plain mounting, $275.

No. 7. Equal in power to the Engines used by the Corporation of the city of New York, and discharging the same quantity, $400.

No. 11. Discharging double the quantity of the best Engines in the city of New York, $600.

No. 20. Discharging three times the quantity of the best Engines now in use in the United States, $1000.

Intermediate numbers, not named, in the same proportion. Force-pumps, for the supply of cities, villages and manufactories, will be charged at about one half the prices named above. Suctions for Nos. 1, 2, 3 and 4, will be charged at $100 extra--for No. 7, $125--for No. 11, $150--No. 20, $200.

By order of the President and Directors,

LUTHER FOOTE, Secretary.

D (printed), ViU:PP, 1p, with ASB docket "Fire Engine." ASB calculated some figures on the verso.