Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Related Images
John Smeatons water gin winding engine, 19th century
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
John Smeatons water gin winding engine, 19th century
John Smeatons water gin winding engine, 19th century.. John Smeatons design for a water gin (winding engine) for drawing coals from the pits, 19th century. Copperplate engraving by W. Lowry after an Illustration by J. Farey from Abraham Rees Cyclopedia or Universal Dictionary, London, 1817
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14201416
© Florilegius / Mary Evans
19thcentury Abrahamrees Coal Cyclopedia Johnsmeaton Pits Sciencesandliterature Technology Universaldictionaryofarts
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: John Smeaton's Water Gin Winding Engine, 19th Century This copperplate engraving showcases John Smeaton's innovative design for a water gin winding engine, a crucial technology employed during the 19th century coal mining boom in Britain. Smeaton, a renowned civil engineer, is best known for his lighthouse designs, but his contributions to mining technology are equally significant. The water gin, depicted in this engraving, was a type of winding engine that used water power to lift coal from deep mines. The engine consisted of a large water wheel, which, when turned, would raise a rope attached to a bucket or cage, allowing miners and their equipment to ascend from the depths of the pit. This design was a significant improvement over earlier methods, which relied on human or animal labor for winding. The intricate details of Smeaton's water gin are beautifully rendered in this engraving by W. Lowry, based on an illustration by J. Farey from Abraham Rees's Cyclopedia or Universal Dictionary, published in London in 1817. The Cyclopedia was an encyclopedia of arts, sciences, and literature, and this illustration served to document the technological advancements of the time. The Industrial Revolution brought about a rapid expansion of coal mining in Britain, and technologies like the water gin played a crucial role in making deep-pit mining economically viable. This engraving is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the engineers and inventors of the period, who continually sought to improve upon existing technologies and push the boundaries of what was possible. In conclusion, this image of John Smeaton's water gin winding engine offers a glimpse into the rich history of mining technology during the 19th century. It serves as a reminder of the pivotal role that engineering innovations played in shaping the industrial landscape of Britain and the world.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
