BELL, Henry. Observations on the Utility of Applying Steam Engines to Vessels, &c., Glasgow: by J. Niven, 1813, 8°, FIRST EDITION, 20pp. [Scott 508] [bound with:] Specification of the patent granted to Mr. James Jordan, of Oak-Hill ... for his new invention in the art of constructing bridges, aqueducts, &c., Bristol: by J. Rudhall, 1797, 8°, FIRST EDITION, engraved frontispiece and 2 plates, 16pp. (plates spotted, verso of final leaf slightly soiled) [Scott 461] [and:] Remarks on Brown's Vaccum Engine, Edinburgh: [n.d.], 8°, 7pp. including lithographed title, 3 pamphlets in one volume, contemporary diced calf with gilt border (rebacked), Scott Library label.

Details

BELL, Henry. Observations on the Utility of Applying Steam Engines to Vessels, &c., Glasgow: by J. Niven, 1813, 8°, FIRST EDITION, 20pp. [Scott 508] [bound with:] Specification of the patent granted to Mr. James Jordan, of Oak-Hill ... for his new invention in the art of constructing bridges, aqueducts, &c., Bristol: by J. Rudhall, 1797, 8°, FIRST EDITION, engraved frontispiece and 2 plates, 16pp. (plates spotted, verso of final leaf slightly soiled) [Scott 461] [and:] Remarks on Brown's Vaccum Engine, Edinburgh: [n.d.], 8°, 7pp. including lithographed title, 3 pamphlets in one volume, contemporary diced calf with gilt border (rebacked), Scott Library label.

Provenance

Verso of title to first work with presentation inscription from Thomas Fair to Baillie William Smith, dated Kelso 26 April 1813, stating that this is one of a number of copies given to him by the author, "a just counterpart of the late Donald Cumming, his head is full of Steam and Machinery ...."

Lot Essay

Henry Bell (1767-1830), a carpenter by trade, inaugurated the first steam ship service in Britain when he had the "Comet" built to ferry guests between Glasgow and his hotel at Helensburgh, a distance of about 14 miles along the Clyde. The ship was launched in July, 1812.

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