Robinson Joseph Clinton (1 results)

Wraps. Condition: Good. 16 pages. Wraps. Illustrations. Pagination 33-48 taken from a larger volume, small stains to pages. Some wear and discoloration. The Mechanics Magazine is surely the richest single source for material on 19th century mechanics. A sample of subjects include, railways, steam carriages, pile-driving, printing machinery, hydraulic bookbinder's press, Thames bridges, Russian paper-making, steam ships and an improved bee-hive. It was founded, and edited till 1851, by Joseph Clinton Robertson (1788-1852), a patent agent in Fleet Street. In 1859 with the beginning of the 'New Series' it changed both format (to 4to) and title to The Mechanics Magazine, and Journal of Engineering, Agricultural Machinery, Manufactures, and Shipbuilding, thus reflecting a change of direction from the mechanics of the early 19th century to the heavy engineering of the industrial revolution at its peak. It continued in this form until 1873 when it merged with Iron, a journal of the iron industry. It is this first series however which is by far the most interesting and important. In their editorial to volume 1 of the New Series, the editors, R.A. Brooman and E.J. Reed, say of The first issue - " . proved to be the beginning of a publication which has unquestionably exerted great influences upon modern science - has formed the model for scientific journalists throughout the world. Nor was that first number the precursor of great literary influences alone. For in its pages Mr. Robertson, took the lead in the establishment of the London Mechanics' Institution and kindred institutions." Features an article on the improved self-regulating calendar, with illustrations, and an article on the influence of the wind on church clocks. Presumed First Edition, First printing thus.