University of Virginia Library

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

James Dinsmore & John M. Perry
to the Board of Visitors

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."

William J. Coffee to Thomas Jefferson

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

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

James Wade to Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough

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."

Andrew Smith to Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough

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

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.

Directions for Making Roman Cement

Roman Cement,

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.

STUCCO,

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.

Directions for using the Cement for Stuccoing.

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.

To make a pail-full of Wash, for colouring Cement.

Take 1-4 lb. Russian Tallow, (or Tallow without Salt,)

• 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."

Andrew Smith to Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough

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).

Thomas Jefferson to Board of Visitors

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

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.

Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough
to John Hartwell Cocke

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

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

Sellers & Pennock to Arthur Spicer Brockenbrough

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

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.

Sellers & Pennock
Water Works Circulars

CIRCULAR.

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.

[engraving]

Fire apparatus of all descriptions, furnished on the most approved plan.

LIST OF PRICES.

• 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.

DIRECTIONS

FOR PRESERVING THE HOSE.

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.

FOR REPAIRING THE HOSE.

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.

Coleman Sellers to Samuel Sellers, Sr.

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--

ALS, PPAmP:Patterson Papers, 2p.

Coleman Sellers to John Hartwell Cocke

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."

Fire Engine Circular

AMERICAN HYDRAULIC COMPANY.

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

FIRE ENGINES, FORCE-PUMPS, &c.

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.

IT WILL RAISE DOUBLE THE QUANTITY OF WATER.

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,

IT CAN BE OPERATED WITH ONE HALF THE POWER.

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.

IT IS COMPARATIVELY PROOF AGAINST FROST.

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 DISCHARGES A MORE CONDENSED COLUMN.

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.

PRICES.

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.