m / j
\ 1^.^%
^
>\.
X
REPOET ^v^^^^^'t^^
THE COMMISSIONEES
APPOINTED TO INQUIRE INTO
THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF
LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
TOGETHER WITH A
LETTER FROM REAR-ADMIRAL W. A. B. HAMILTON,
CHAIRMAN OF THE COMMISSION,
APPENDIX AND INDEX.
VOL. I.
Ilifgftttfti to tjotf) 3^om(» of IParliatnntt fiy (Commanlr of Jtjrr iFHairgt};.
L 0 ND 0 N :
PRINTED BY GEORGE EDWARD EYRE AND WILLIAM SPOTTISWOODE,
PRINTERS TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY.
POR HER MAJESTY'S STATIONERY OFFICE.
1861.
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
982 pages. Vols. I. and II.
VOL. I.
Pages 1—6. TITLE, TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Pages 7, 8. COMMISSION.
Pages i— xlii. REPORT.
Pages xliii— li. CHAIRMAN'S LETTER.
Pages 1—227. APPENDIX.
Pages 1—22. ELECTRIC LIGHT.
Pages.
1 — 2. Observations on the Electric Light at South Foreland.
2—4.
4—5.
Reports made to the Trinity House by Professor Faraday.
Observations on Professor Way's Electric Light.
5. Memoranda of a visit to the establishment of Mr. Wilkins, Manufacturer of
lamps, reflectors, &c.
6 — 8. Memoranda of a visit to the Trinity House Buoy Wharf.
Pages 8—33. CRUIZE OF THE VIVID.
Including observations made by the Commission, on Lights, &c., in England,
Scotland, and Ireland during a cruize round the coast of Great Britain ;
and certain other observations subsequently made on some of the lights
visited or seen alight.
8 — 17. Lights, &c., in England from Beachy Head to the Smalls.
17 — 19- Do. in Ireland from Coningbergs to Baily Howth.
19—20. Do. in England from South Stack to Liverpool. The observations
on Lights at Liverpool, are in Vol. II., p. 326, &c.
20 — 22. Do. in Ireland, from South Rock to Instrahull.
22 — 29. Do. in Scotland, from Oversay to Berwick-upon-Tweed. North
about.
29 — 33. Do. in England, from The Fern to Dover.
Pages 33—41. OBSERVATIONS ON LIGHTS ABROAD.
33 — 36, Lights, &c., in France. — West Coast.
36. Do. in Spain. — North do. ,
36 — 38. Do. in France. — West do.
38. Do. do. South do.
38—41. Do. do. North do.
Pages 41—43. OBSERVATIONS ON LIGHTS IN IRELAND AND SCOTLAND, &c.
41 — 42. Lights, &c., in Ireland from The Hook to Belfast, by the West Coast.
42—43. Do. in Scotland, Clyde.
43 — 44. Visit to the Manufactory of the Messrs. Chance, Birmingham,
44. First meeting with the Astronomer Royal, at Millbank Street.
44 — 46. Observations on Lights, &c., in the Isle of Man.
46. Visit of Col. La Touche to 7, Millbank Street.
Pages 46—62. SPECIAL INSPECTIONS.
Including accounts of visits made to, and experiments tried at various
Lighthouses at home and abroad, with a special view to the adjustment
of the illuminating apparatus;
a2
^ TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Paffes.
g3 ji. Summary of Observations of the Commissioners on their visit to Whitby
Lighthouses, &c.
J I -Q. Investigations proposed by Dr. Gladstone for perfecting the theory of Light-
house illumination ; and paper on the " Relative position of the flame to
the different parts of a dioptric apparatus."
77 — 89. Letters from the Astronomer Royal.
90 96. Reports made by Professor Faraday to the Trinity House.
97__1U1. Observations by Mr. James Chance.^
102. Ditto by the Messrs. D. and T. Stevenson, C.E.
102. Ditto bv ^Ir. James Chance. Diagram by the Messrs. Stevenson.
EVIDENCE, Vol. IL
J03 120. Abstracts and summaries of the evidence given in reply to Circulars I. to VIIL
Pages 121—207, ORAL EVIDENCE.
121 123. P. H. Berthon, Esq., Secretary to the Trinity House.
123. Robin Allen, Esq., Clerk to the Trinity House.
123 126. The Right Hon. T. M. Gibson, M.P.,' President of the Board of Trade, and
T. H. Farrer, Esq., Secretary to the ^Marine Department.
127—130. Sir James Dombrain, and
130 138. The Ri^ht Hon. the Earl of Meath, Members of the Corporation of the
Ballast Board, Dublin.
138—141. T. H. Farrer, Esq., re-examined.
141_-153, Papers referred to in the evidence of Mr. Farrer.
153 167. Rear-Admiral Gordon, Deputy Master of the Trinity Hou?e.
157 173. "\V. H. Cutler, Esq., and Professor Holmes; as to the electric light.
174 189. A. Cuningham, Esq., and David Stevenson, Esq., C.E., Secretary and
Eno-ineer, employed by the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses ;
including a written statement by the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses and other papers.
189 207. Capt. Sulivan, R.N., Professional Member of the Board of Trade.
207. Mr. Thomas Stevenson, C.E.
207. Capt. Sulivan re-examined.
208 209. Contracts and tenders for the supply of illuminating apparatus to the Trinity
House.
210. Specifications for illuminating apparatus.
211. Convictions for offences committed by officers of the Trinity House.
213. Expense of keepers' dweUings at Scilly, Reliefs, &c.
213 214. Circular XHI. Observations by Mariners on Whitby Lights.
21. 5. Consumption of oil at Whitby.
21.5. Report bv the Hydrographer to the Admiralty.
220. Scheme of Buoyage proposed for general adoption by Comdr. Bedford,
221. Circular XIV. Observations by Mariners on the fog signal at Boulogne.
222. Measurement of the coasts of the United Kingdom and France.
222. Suggestions for inspections,
223. Proposed experiments on lamps.
223. Correspondence with the Scotch Board as to the adjustment of apparatus.
224. Observations by Dr. Gladstone on the electric light and steam fog signals at
Northfleet .
22.'3. Admiralty Circular to their Chart Agents.
225. Further Remarks by the Astronomer Royal on the adoption and placing the
Electric Light.
22.5. Electric Light about to be used in France.
PLATES.
226. Explanation of Plates.
Plates,
INDEX {^in preparation).
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
VOL. II.
1st,— CIRCULARS ISSUED BY THE COMMISSION, I. to XI.
These contain the questions to which the returns printed in the Appendix of Vol. II.,
arc rcpHes, and are a key to the whole.
Opposite to the questions references are given to the pages where the replies may be
found. Some abstracts are given, and other information is added.
Each reply is numbered to correspond to the question to which it is an answer.
Example 1. — It is desired to know what is the description of illuminating apparatus
at any lighthouse — under any of the General Authorities — •
Open out Circular III., and the Question will be found as (No. 21) XXI.
Search in the map for the number of the Lighthouse in question ; say No. 1 Fern, in
England.
Search for No. I. under the heading — Circular No. III., England, and the information
will be found, Vol. II. p. 65, opposite to the No. XXL, and the same information for
every Lighthouse will be found opposite to the same Number, — XXI.
Example 2. — It is desired to know the opinion of John Smith, Mariner, as to the best
shapes and colours for buoys.
Open out Circular VIII., IMariners' Questions, and the question which elicited the
information will be found opposite to — No. 17-
Search for Smith's luiniber in the alphabetical list of Mariners, page 466, and opposite
to his name is the number 292.
Look for 292, under the heading — Question 17, Mariners' Evidence, page 526, and the
evidence of John Smith on this point will be found :
" 292. The nun buoys, black or red, are best seen at night."
Example 3. — It is desired to know what is the bearing of the evidence given on the
same point by the whole of the witnesses.
Look to the Abstract, page 587, and the result of the evidence of 657 witnesses will Vol. i. p. 110.
be found opposite to Question 17, which elicited the information.
Example 4. — Information is wanted relative to a Local Authority ; say Liverpool.
Search for the question in the Circulars, and for the name of the Local Authority
under letter L, and under the heading — Local Authorities, England ; and the answer to
the question will be found under the Marginal Heading, and the number of the Circular,
and of the Question, page 326.
Example 5. — The opinion of a Scientific Witness is wanted on any point raised by a
question in Circulars IX. and X.
Search for his name, in the list on the Circular, and his evidence will be found under
the number of the question.
Example 6. — Information is wanted as to some foreign country.
In Circular XI. search for the name of the country and for the question, and look to
the return under the number of the question for the answer.
GENERAL
AUTHORITIES.
Trinity House,
England.
Commissioners of
Northern Light-
houses, Scotland.
Ballast Board,
Dublin.
Replies to Circular.
Abstracts iu
Vol. I.
Pages.
Pages.
Pages.
Pages.
1— .54
153 — 163
209 — 224
I. As to Constitution of the Authority, &c.
103
55— 64
163—172
225 — 227
II. General Lighthouse Return
103—105
65 — 106
173 — 188
228 — 262
III. Special Lighthouse Returns
106—120
107—109
-
263 — 263
II. General Floating Light Return
105—106
110—126
-
264 — 266
IV. Special Floating Light Returns
106
127 — 145
189 — 201
267 — 274
V. Buoj^s and Beacons Returns
106
146—152
201 — 208
275 — 278
VI. Lloyd's Agents' Evidence - . -
107—108
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Page 279. LOCAL AUTHORITIES.
Pages
280 — 284. List of Authorities having charge of Lights, 61103-8, and Beacons in the
United Kingdom.
285 — 424. Replies to Circulars II., III., IV., V., VL, and observations made by the
Commissioners relative to Lights, Buoys, and Beacons, &c. imder
Local Authorities. These are alphabetically arranged in three groups
under — England, — Scotland, — Ireland.
Page 425. MERCANTILE MARINE EVIDENCE.— Circular VII.
425. Alphabetical list and index number of each witness.
426 — 442. Evidence. All the answers printed under each question,
443—444. Abstract.
Page 445. MARINERS' EVIDENCE.— Circular VIII.
446. Alphabetical list and index number of each witness.
449 — 5/8. Evidence arranged as above.
579—585. Appendix.
586. Abstract.
Page 589. EVIDENCE OF SCIENTIFIC WITNESSES.— Circulars IX. X.
589 — 630. Evidence arranged under the name of each witness in the form in which it
was given.
Page 631. COLONIAL LIGHTS.
631 — 637. Correspondence with Board of Trade.
637- Circular II., General Lighthouse Return.
638—643. Circular III. Special Lighthouse Returns.
643 — 649. Evidence of Alexander Gordon, Esq. C.E.
650. Circular XIL, and replies thereto.
Page 651. FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
Replies to Circular XI.
651. United States of America,
655. Turkey. ,
656. Norway.
959. Sweden.
66 1 . Hanover.
662. Hamburgh.
665. Spain.
669. France.
676. Denmark.
682. Russia.
683. Holland.
687. Belgium.
688. Austria.
MISCELLANEOUS.
690. A Local Return.— Northfleet.
691. A Mariner's reply.— Peter Dodd.
COMMISSION.
VICTORIA R.
VICTORIA, by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
Queen, Defender of tlie Faith : To Our trusty and well-beloved William Alexander
Baillie Hamilton, Esquire, Rear Admiral in Our Navy ; Alfred Phillips Ryder,
Esquire, Captain in Our Navy; John Hall Gladstone, Esquire; Duncan Dunbar,
Esquire, Chairman of the London Local Marine Board, and Samuel Robert Graves,
Esquire, Chairman of the Liverpool Local Marine Board; Greeting: —
Whereas We have deemed it expedient that a Commission should forthwith issue for
inquiring into the condition and management of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons : Now,
know ye, that We, reposing great trust and confidence in your zeal and ability, have
authorised and appointed, and do by these presents authorise and appoint you, the said
WiLUAM Alexander Baillie Hamilton, Alfred Phillips Ryder, John Hall Gladstone,
Duncan Dunbar, and Samuel Robert Graves to be Our Commissioners for the purposes
aforesaid, and Our will and pleasure is that you, or any one or more of you, shall
especially inquire into the number, quality, and position of the lighthouses, floating lights,
buoys, and beacons on the coasts of the United Kingdom, both absolutely and relatively,
as compared with the lighthouses, floating lights, buoys, and beacons on the coasts of
any foreign countries, and into the sufficiency of the said lighthouses, floating lights,
buoys, and beacons, for the efficient lighting and buoying of the coasts of the United
Kingdom. And also, to inquire into the expense of constructing and maintaining the
lighthouses, floating lights, buoys, and beacons of the United Kingdom, both absolutely
and relatively, as compared with the expense of constructing and maintaining the light-
houses, floating lights, buoys, and beacons of any foreign countries. And also, to inquire
whether the present system of management and control under which the lighthouses,
floating lights, buoys, and beacons on the coasts of the United Kingdom are constructed
and maintained, according to the provisions of the " Merchant Shipping Act, 1854," is
well adapted for securing the most efficient lighting and buoying of the coasts of the
United Kingdom, with a due regard to economy, or Avhether any, and, if any, what
change might be advantageously made in that system. And also, whether any, and,
if any, what further supervision or control might advantageously be exercised over any
local authority having jurisdiction in the matter of lights, buoys, or beacons in the United
Kingdom. And also, whether the system now in force for the construction, maintenance,
and control of certain lighthouses in Our Colonial Possessions, under the superintendence
of Our Government, is well adapted for ensuring the most efficient conduct of that
service with a due regard to economy, or whether any and what change might advan-
tageously be made in that system. And, for the purpose of enabling you. Our said
Commissioners, to make the said inquiries. We do hereby authorise and empower you,
or any one or more of you, to call before you all such persons as you may judge most
competent, by reason of their situation, knowledge, or experience, to affiard you correct
information on the subject of this inquiry ; and also to require the production of all books,
documents, papers, and accounts which may appear to you, or any one or more of you,
calculated to assist your researches in the execution of the trust hereby reposed in you,
and to inquire concerning the premises by all other lawful ways and means whatsoever.
b2
And We do command and require you, or any one or more of you, to report to Us in
writing, under your hands and seals, or vmder the hand and seal of any one or more of
you, as soon as the same can reasonably be, your several proceedings by virtue of this
Ovu: Commission.
And We -wUl and command, that this Our Commission shall continue in full force and
virtue and that you Our said Commissioners, or any one or more of you, may, from
time to time, proceed in the execution thereof, and of every matter and thing therein
contained, although the same be not continued from time to time by adjournment.
Given at Our Court of St. James's, the 8th day of December ISoS, in the 22d -Year
of Our Reign.
By Her Majesty's Command,
(Signed) S. H. WALPOLE.
REPORT.
TO THE QUEEN'S MOST EXCELLENT MAJESTY:
We, Your Majesty's Commissioners, appointed to " Inquire into the number, quality, Commission.
" and position of the Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the coasts
" of the United Kingdom, both absolutely and relatively, as compared with the Light-
" houses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the coasts of any foreign countries, and
" into the sufficiency of the said Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons, for
" the efficient lighting and buoying of the coasts of the United Kingdom. And also to
" inquire into the expense of constructing and maintaining the Lighthouses, Floating
" Lights, Buoys, and Beacons of the United Kingdom, both absolutely and relatively,
" as compared with the expense of constructing and maintaining the Lighthouses, Floating
" Lights, Buoys, and Beacons of any foreign countries. And also, to inquire whether the
" present system of management and control under which the Lighthouses, Floating
" Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the coasts of the United Kingdom are constructed and
" maintained, according to the provisions of the ' Merchant Shipping Act, 1854,' is well
" adapted for securing the most efficient lighting and buoying of the coasts of the United
" Kingdom, with a due regard to economy, or whether any, and if any, what change
" might be advantageously made in that system. And also, whether any, and if any,
" what further supervision or control might advantageously be exercised over any Local
" Authority having jurisdiction in the matter of Lights, Buoys, or Beacons in the United
" Kingdom. And also, whether the system now in force for the construction, main-
" tenance, and control of certain Lighthouses in Our Colonial Possessions, vmder the
" superintendence of Our Government, is well adapted for ensuring the most efficient
" conduct of that service with a due regard to economy, or whether any and what
" change might advantageously be made in that system," do most humbly report to Your
Majesty as follows : —
INTRODUCTORY.
The course pursued by Your Majesty's Commissioners in conducting their inquiry has course pursned
differed from that of the Parliamentary Committees which have inquired concerning Lights, H ^^^ ^'""*
Buoys, and Beacons, whose members have in some instances expressed regret at their
inability to visit the Lights, &c. and judge for themselves. Our course has also differed
from that generally followed by Royal Commissions, who have relied for the most part on
oral evidence. This has affected the form and arrangement of our Appendix, and we
think it right to give the reasons which induced us to depart from the usual course, and
to explain the arrangement which we have adopted.
Your Commissioners held their first formal meeting on the 19th of January 1859, and
their first step was to prepare questions for the examination of the Lighthouse
Authorities.
It appeared to Your Commissioners that as there were many Authorities having charge
of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons in the United Kingdom, it would be highly desirable to
put the same questions to all, so that the action of the authorities might be more readily
compared.
These Questions were accordingly prepared, printed, and circulated, and they are now cu-cuiation of
given in Vol. II. as Circulars I., II., III., IV., V. Each question in each Circular has ^"''''°"'
a number affixed to it, and the answers given by the Authorities are numbered so as
to correspond with the numbers attached to the questions. The Circulars open out so that
the questions may serve once for all in reading the Appendix.
The Returns of the General Authorities in England, Scotland, and Ireland, are placed
together, in the Second Volume at pages 3 to 278.
The Returns of the Local Authorities, including the Admiralty, follow, and are
arranged together alphabetically in the same order; namely, 1. England, 2. Scotland, and
3. Ireland, also in Vol. II., pages 631 to 637.
The Replies to these Circulars given by the Board of Trade relative to the Colonial
Lights are in Vol. II., pages 631 to 637.
Thus by opening out Circular No. I., at the beginning of Vol. II., the whole of the
answers given in reply to that series of questions, by each Authority which has furnished
returns, may be found, by looking at the top and margin of each page, where the uum-
b 3
ii KEPORT OF COJIMISSIONEBS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
ber of the Circular and the name of the Authority making the return to it, and the num-
ber of the question to which the matter in the page is a reply, will be found as a running
heeding, &c. in the Appendix. The pages where the answers will be found are marked
on each Circular.
Thus the reply given to Question 1, Circular I., by the first of the Lighthouse
x\uthorities named, will be found next after the Circulars ; and the reply given to
Question 27, Circular V., by the Local Authority in Ireland, whose initial comes last in
the alphabet, will be found at the end of the Returns from Local Authorities, Vol. IL,
page 424.
Li order to form a satisfactory opinion of the efficiency of the existing lights, buoys,
and beacons in the United Kingdom, both among themselves and in comparison with
those of foreign countries, it seemed to Your Commissioners necessary to adopt the widest
possible field of inquiry, b}^ inviting the opinions of such a number of witnesses at home
and abroad as would neutralize partiality or prejudice. Aware that such a course, if
pursued in the usual way of summoning witnesses, would involve a very serious expense,
we adopted the plan of using the printing press and the post. In this way more
witnesses could be examined, and at a much smaller cost ; and their evidence, when
obtained, could be more readily compared, and more easily read and understood, when
systematically collected and arranged.
When a number of persons examine a witness, there is always a tendency to depart
from the special Ime of examination, both in putting questions and in giving answers,
and the evidence becomes very voluminous. One subject grows out of another. Viva
voce examination is alwaj-s best for extracting the truth from the unwilling, but written
questions are best for obtaining deliberate opinions from men anxious to give them. A
professional man could not be called before a Commission without offering to pay
him, not only for his expenses, but also for his loss of time. A great mimber of
skilled opinions brought to bear together on a single fact, from independent sources,
arc more nearly conclusive, if almost unanimous, than a small number given sepa-
rately. A number of answers to the same questions can be more readily compared
than an equal number of answers to questions variously put in varying order.
Yovu' Majesty's Commissioners accordingl}' prepared questions at different times,
which were designed lor various classes of the community. These were printed, and
very widely circulated amongst those classes. Each was framed as far as was judged
advisable so as to embody but one single idea, and point to a simple negative or
affirmative reply.
l"he result has proved that many who could not leave their avocations have written
their ideas ; and men of all ranks and professions, and of all degrees of talent, have
proved that when a set of questions were placed before them they would willingly
devote some of their time and ability gratuitously to the public good.
Circular VI. was sent to the Agents for Lloyd's. The answers are numbered, printed,
and placed together with the returns of the Authorities to whose jurisdiction the
evidence applies. Those which seem to apply more particularly to portions of the coast
under the jurisdiction of the Trinity House, are placed at the end of the Trinity House
rctm-n ; those which relate to portions oi the coast under the jurisdiction of the Scotch
and Irish Geneial Authorities follow their returns ; and those which relate to the Local
Authorities follow their returns.
Circular VII. was sent to members of the classes most interested in the IVIercantile
Marine, such as shipoAvners, merchants, &c. All the answers given to each question are
printed together, under the question, at Vol. II., page 425.
Circular VIII. was sent to the class who use the Lights, &c. ; namely. Mariners. All
their replies are in like manner printed together under the questions, at Vol. II.,
page 445.
Circulars IX., X. were prepared and circulated amongst those Scientific Men whom Your
Commissioners believed to have given most attention to the branches of science Avhich
relate to Lighthouses, Sec, and to Manufacturers of Illuminating Apparatus ; and the
replies received from these gentlemen, and from others who wished to state their views,
and who applied for the questions, are printed together, and follow a set of these
questions at Vol. II., page 589-
Circular XI. was sent through the Foreign Office to Foreign Governments ; the replies
received arc arranged at Vol. II., pages 651 to 658.
Circular XII. was sent to certain Steam Companies whose vessels pass colonial lights,
and is given, with the replies, at Vol. II., page 650.
KEPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. iii
By followinc,- this course Your Commissioners have been enabled to procure returns from
114 Authorities having the management, cSrc. of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons in the United
Kingdom, the evidence of 1,184 witnesses, and returns from 13 foreign countries,
all of which we have been enabled to arrange, so that any particular bit of evidence
given in reply to any single question by any witness can be readily found (by looking for
the name of the witness in the alphabetical lists, and for his evidence under his index
number below each question), or the bearing of the whole on any one of the points raised
may be considered at once, by looking to the Abstracts, which are given together in
Vol. I., and follow the evidence in Vol. II.
The cost of examining each witness may be set down at the price of the printed circular,
and the postage of two letters ; and the testimony obtained was in such a ibrm as to make
its arrangement easy.
By summoning witnesses Your Commissioners could hardly have accomplished their
object, at all events within the time, and only at a largely increased cost.
Abstracts and Summaries of the replies to these various circulars have been prepared as
far as practicable, and are appended, with the questions, in Vol. I. pp. 103-120, in order that
the substance of this mass of testimony may be seen at a glance, and in connection with
the conclusions and recommendations which have been in a great measure founded upon it.
As, however, certain points remained on which information could be better elicited
orally, representatives of the principal Lighthouse Authorities were examined in the
usual way, and their evidence is given in Vol. I.
Your Commissioners have also circumnavigated Great Britain ; and have visited the rersoTiai m-
Channel Islands, and most of the coasts of Ireland, of France, and a part of the northern ^P'=<^*'™-
coast of Spain. We have personally inspected more than 200 Lighthouses, several have
been visited more than once; and full minutes of our proceedings are printed in Vol. I.
Our observations which relate to Local Authorities are generally placed together with
the returns furnished by them.
The Report and Appendices are thus arranged : — Contents of
Vols. I. and U.
f Report.
I Chairman's letter.
j Personal Observations made by Your Commissioners at home and
I abroad.
Vol. I. I Papers drawn up by members of Your Commission, and Reports
Report and <( made by other gentlemen.
Appendix I. j Abstracts and Svimmary of Evidence in Vol. 11.
j Oral Evidence.
I Miscellaneous Returns and Correspondence.
I Maps and Plates.
1^ Index.
Returns by the three General Lighthouse Authorities, with
evidence from Lloyd's Agents, subjoined.
Similar Returns from Local Authorities, with Lloyd's Evidence,
and the observations made by Your Conmiissioners at the ports
Vol. II. J named, alphabetically arranged.
Appendix II. ] Evidence from the Mercantile Marine.
I Evidence of Mariners.
I Scientific Evidence.
! Returns as to Colonial Lights.
1^ Returns from Foreign Countries.
Although, from their great bulk, it has not been considered expedient to print the
whole of the Returns and Correspondence, together with the Charts, Diagrams, and
Drawings amassed during our inquiry, yet their great value renders it advisable that
they should be preserved for the use of the Lighthouse Authorities.
b4
KEPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
PLAN OF REPORT.
The inquiry which Your Majesty's Commissioners were directed to undertake has
reference to :—
1st. Lights, Buoys, and Beacons in the United Kingdom.
2nd. Certain Colonial Lights under the management of Your Majesty's
Government.
1st. As to the United Kingdom, the inquiry conducted by Your Commissioners
necessarily arranged itself under the following heads, and the report is framed on the
same principle: —
Points of Inquiry named in the Commission.
- . , , Floating
L.ghthonses. ^ishtsr
Numbor . . - .
Position - - . -
Quality -----
Sufficiency as regards cllicieucy
Kxpcnsc of construction
Expense of maintenance -
System of management for securing
efficiency and economy
System of control for do.
Comparison with foreign countries ~1
in all the above particulars - J
Further Sujiervision over Local Au-
thorities - - .
Change of system under Merchant
Sliipping Act - -
Pages.
4
6
5
14
16
26, 31,33
22, 31
0, 12, 15,
16, 28
34
39
Pages.
17
17
17
17
IS
19
26. 31, 33
22, 31,34
19, 28
34
39
Pages.
19
20
20
20
21
21
26, 31, 33
22, 31, 34
20, 21,
28
34
39
Pages.
21
26, 31, 33
22, 31, 34
21, 28
34
39
As to the Colonial Lights under the management of Her Majesty's Government, the
inquiry resolves itself into the following points : —
System for construction with regard to efficiency and economy
„ „ maintenance „ „ „
„ ,, control „ „ „
Change of system - - - - - -
Puce
37
37
37
38
LIGHTHOUSES.
The Ibllowing Table shows the number and the nature of (he Lights in the United
Kinodom : —
Lights on Shore.
i
Country.
General
Authority.
Authority.
Floating Lights. , ^Total.
;
England
Scotland
Ireland ...
82
46
69
89
67
4
171
113
73
41
1
5
212
114
1 78
Total
197
160
3J7 i 47
i!
1 404
!
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Of all the Lights under the General Authorities, and about half of those under the
Local Authorities, Your Commissioners have obtained full returns, Avhich will be found
at length in the 2nd Volume. The Lights on shore, for which returns have been
received, are classified in the following Table : —
Li^ht-
Catop-
tric.
Dioptric.
or Catadi-
optric.
Apparatus \
not stated.
Order of Dioptric Apparatus.
A'i'li»«'y- houses.
1st.
2nd.
3rd.
4th.
5th.
6th.
England — Trinity House
„ Local - - -
Scotland — Commissioners of Northern
Lights - - -
„ Local
Ireland — Ballast Board
„ Local - - -
82
49
46
24
69
6
51
35
1
14
13
51
1 ~
31
14
32
3
18
3
8
3
20
1
16
10
8
1
4
1
3
4
1
4
9
3
2
2
The Index Map at the end of Vol. I. shows the position of the Lighthouses in the Position.
United Kingdom, and on a portion of the French, Belgian, Dutch, and Norwegian coasts.
Very few complaints are made as to the position of Lighthouses by mariners, or the
agents of Lloyd's, and those which are made are generally confined to three or four sites.
It will be seen, by looking at the Map, that the number is sometimes insufficient, be- Sufficiency.
cause vessels might be within a very short distance of some parts of the coast, and
beyond the estimated range of any lighthouse, even in clear weather ; for instance, at
Great Orme's Head on the approach to Liverpool.
The circles of light on the Index Map are taken from the Map published by the Board
of Trade, and represent the column in the Admiralty List of Lights headed " Miles seen
in clear weather ;" but from the evidence before us, and from our own observations,
the lights are not uncommonly seen at much greater distances. Any attempt to
make lights so brilliant or so numerous as that one at least should be visible
in fogs which are dense enough to obscure the sun, would necessarily fail ; but any
increase in the brilliancy of the lights will increase their range in hazy weather, and
make them more efficient; and their number ought to be such as to ensure that one or
more may always be within sight of a ship approaching a danger in ordinary weather.
The west coasts of Scotland and Ireland are still insufficiently illuminated ; and the
Channel Islands lying near the track of ships bound up Channel, and surrounded by
rapid tides, have been left in a state of blameable darkness, although a light is now being-
erected on the Hanois Rocks on the West coast of Guernsey. A reference to the Index
Map will best show the positions where the number of lights is sufficient or insufficient.
It will be observed, as respects number and position of lights, that the British Number and
coasts are not so well guarded as the French, for the lights are purposely so placed on the ^°'^' ion.c5""-
coasts of France as to " cross their fire."
This may also be tested by comparing the proportion between the number of lights
and the amount of coast line in England, Scotland, and Ireland, with the proportion
between the number of lights and the coast line in France. The measiu-ement of the
coast line and of the islands in the respective countries is given in a table in Vol. I. p. 222;
the number of Lighthouses is taken as before from the Admiralty List. From these data
the following table is constructed : —
pared "with
I'freigQ coun-
tries.
Number of
CouDtn-.
Lighthouses
on shore.
Coast Line.
Proportion.
Nautical miles.
England
171
2,405
1 for 14.0 MUes.
Scotland . . -
113
4,469
1 „ 39.5 „
Ireland - -
73
2,518
1 „ 34.5 „
France . . -
224
2,763
1 „ 12.3 „
Hence it appears that the lighthouses in France are more than three times as numerous,
compared with the amount of coast, as in Scotland ; but a considerable allowance must
be made for the very large amount of mileage atlbrded by the Scottish islands and the
bays on the Irish coast, which do not require a commensurate amount of lighting, as a
light on an island or on one side of a channel will often obviate the necessity of a iight
on the main 'a.id, or on the other side. The lights in France appear to be nearly three
■vi REPORT OF CO>DIISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
times as numerous, comparatively speaking, as those in Ireland ; but if to the 73 Irish
Lighthouses be added the 5 floating lights, the discrepancy is somewhat reduced.
In England too there seems at first sight to be a somewhat smaller provision made for
illuminating the coasts than in France, yet if the 41 English Floating Lights be added to
the 171 Lighthouses, as indeed justice requires. England will be found to provide a light
for every 1 1 "37 nautical miles of coast, while France furnishes one for only every 12.3 miles.
As to the position of lights in France and in England, there is this notable difference :
The English lights have been steadily and gradually increasing in Jiumber during the
last two centuries and a half, additional lights having been placed, from time to time,
wherever the interests of commerce demanded, and a sufficient pressure was exerted; while,
on the contrary, the French lights were very few till 1825, when a grand comprehen-
sive plan was undertaken of erecting a large /mwifier of additional lights, on what were
considered the best positions, and of remodelling the whole system.
The coasts of the United Kingdom are better guarded than those of Holland,
Norway, or perhaps any other country, excepting France.
Quality of Lights.
Quality.
The quality of a light depends mainly on the following points : —
1st. The character of the source of light.
2nd. The character of the apparatus, by which the light is directed to ichere it is
needed.
3rd. The adaptation of the source of light and the optical apparatus to one another,
with a view to the requirements nftlie locality.
4th. The distinction of one light from another.
Source of light. jgt. The character of the source of light. It is the invariable practice of the three
General Liuhthouse Authorities in England, Scotland, and Ireland, to derive it from
the combustion of colza oil. Where metallic reflectors alone are used, the lamp is on
the Argand principle ; but where lenses are employed, a large central lamp is resorted to.
The Ar"-and burners vary in number from 1 to ;J0, and the central lamps differ in the
number of concentric wicks. The Trinity House and Ballast Board, at the time of the
commencement of our inquiry, used fountain lamps, and never employed more
than three of the four concentric wicks (see Vol. I. p. 63), while the Scotch Commissioners
faluT'rf retained a fourth in 1st order lights. The lamps in Scotland being mechanical lamps,
IwkI" were found also to cause a considerably greater consumption of oil (as 5 to 3), and there-
fore the production of a higher and more powerful flame than was produced in England or
Ireland.
The Local Authorities also generally employ oil lamps, but the oil burnt is not always
colza. Liverpool, for instance, prefers olive oil; and the Admiralty and Newhaven still
retain the more expensive sperm, the use of which was abandoned for various
reasons by the General Authorities some years since. Gas is also burnt in many
Harbour lights, and in the Beacon light at Northfleet, under the management of the
Thames Conservancv ; and in that as in many other cases, and in the United States,
with a very satisfactory result.
To the subject of the height of the flame Your Commissioners have given much considera-
tion. It Avill again be alluded to in this Report ; but they are glad to be able to put on
record here that the Elder Brethren of the Trinity House have lately admitted the
propriety of returning to the use of the fourth wick, and are now making experiments
with a view to ascertain the best possible description of mechanical lamp.
Your Majesty's Commissioners, however, are of opinion that the science of Lighthouse
illumination is in a transition state, and capable of further development. We have con-
versed with a man who was actualh' employed in his youth in burning coal fires at Harwich
for directing ships at sea; in fact the last coal light, that at St. Bees, was only extin-
o-uishedin 1822 ; the use of oil docs not seem to date back beyond 1730; and we now find
inventions under trial which promise to transcend far the powers of even the four-wicked
A greater use mechauical lamp in producing light. Gas might probably be advantageously employed
oOjas approved ^^ other than Harbour lights, where it is now frequently used.
An electric light, which is produced between carbon points by the revolution of
magnets fixed on wheels worked by a steam engine, has been tried with great promise of
success by Prof. Holmes at the South Foreland, and is to be further tried at Dunge-
uess, or at the Start.
Another electric light, produced by galvanic action in a stream of mercury, has been
exhibited by Professor Way, and proposed for adoption in lighthouses.
Several modifications of the Lime light, produced by an o.\yhydrogen flame playing on
a surface of prepared lime, have been exhibited, and are commonly used in lecture-
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. vil
rooms and elsewhere ; and these are now proposed for use in lighthouses. And the least
powerful of these surpasses the best oil lamp in brilliancy, as the oil lamp surpasses
the open coal fire.
When any of these are so perfected as to make their action certain, the optical appa-
ratus now used, and made to suit large flames, will be out of date as much as the large
tinned reflector which was first erected behind a large coal fire on the Tour de Cordouan,
and which was then considered a great advance in science. Optical apparatus, to suit a
very small and exceedingly brilliant source of light, ^th of an inch long, may be of
small size, and finished and adjusted with all the accuracy of a telescope. Thick lantern
bars, and the comparatively clumsy and costly brass fittings, which now interfere with
light, may perhaps be done away with, and then the cost of apparatus may possibly be
as much diminished as the quality of the light is improved.
2nd. Tlie character of the apparatus hy which the light is directed to ivhere it is needed.
It mav be well to state shortly what is aimed at in constructing Optical apparatus for Character of
Lighthouses before proceeding to show how far the object has been attained. apparatus.
From any given source of artificial light, such as a point in the flame of a lamp, ra^'s
proceed in every possible direction until obstructed. The fact may be familiarl^^ proved by
observing that the light of a table lamp falls on every part of the spherical ground glass
shade, except where the metal of the burner interferes.
The object of Lighthouse illuminating apparatus, whether constructed of glass or of
metal, is to bend the rays which would naturally proceed in straight lines and illuminate
a hollow sphere, so that those which \vould otherwise be wasted may be used and fall on
points where they may be seen at sea.
Taking the spherical lamp shade as an illustration, those rays from the lamp which
illuminate the upper portions should be so bent downwards as to double the illumi-
nation of the lower half, if the light is intended to be a fixed light, seen all round, and
from the horizon to the base of the light tower ; and all the ra^'s should be further bent
laterally, if it is desired to illuminate a narrow stri[5 of sea, extending from the horizon to
the base of the lighthouse ; or the rays may all be collected and thrown on one or more
spots of larger or less size wherever the light is wanted.
These last objects are sought to be attained in fixed lights placed at the end of narrow
passages, and in revolving lights ; and these last are made visible all round by causing
the lenses, reflectors, &c., to revolve about the source of light, or with it about
a centre.
The better the machinery and apparatus is contrived and executed, and adapted to the
situation, the more the light produced from a given source is rendered available by
directing it properly ; and the less it is wasted by absorption, dispersion, or improper
direction, the better is the qualify of the apparatus, and the greater the economy
of the fuel consumed in producing the light. It must be borne in mind that the
economy in the fuel consumed is in exact proportion to the light used, and the waste to
the light wasted ; that light which is thrown on the sky is equivalent to oil thrown away.
There are two principal means by which it is sought to throw the light in the desired
direction. The one is by silvered parabolic reflectors, and is called the " Catoptric "
system ; the other is by lenses of peculiar construction, and is called the " Dioptric "
system. Sometimes the two systems are combined together, as in the ordinary
" Catadioptric," and in Mr. Stevenson's " Holophotal" arrangement.
These silvered reflectors even are comparatively modei7i inventions, dating, in fact,
from the close of the last century, and it is not 40 years since the first dioptric apparatus
was constructed by Fresnel, in France, and lenses have only graduall}^ replaced the
reflectors in our country. The lenticular system, as now developed, varies greatly
from that first proposed ; and modifications are continually suggested. Manufacturers
both at home and abroad have invested large sums in machinery and in improving the
quality of glass ; and where so much thought is bestowed, it is reasonable to anticipate
further improvement.
The table already given (page 5), shows the proportion between the catoptric and
dioptric lights at present existing in the three kingdoms. It will be seen that the
principle of refraction is generally adopted in Scotland, while that of reflection still holds
the numerical preponderance in England and Ireland, but it should be borne in mind
that the lighting of the Scotch coasts is of a later date than that of the English.
It has been generally assumed that the dioptric is preferable to the catoptric system ;
but while Your Commissioners do not controvert this opinion, they have conclusive
c 2
yiii REPOKT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
evidence that man}- of the catoptric lights in England are not only excellent in
themselves, but exceed in efficienc}' the dioptric lights on its shores. The first part
of Question 7, of Circular VIII., addressed to IVIariners, runs thus : — " What British
" lin-ht have you usually seen farthest off?" and out of the 579 witnesses who have
answered this question, the greatest disf(i?}ces; arc mentioned with reference to the lights at
Lundy Island, the Calf of ]\Ian, Tuskar, Flamborough Head, Bcachy Head, and Cromer,
and the ijreatest numbers of witnesses mention Flamborough Head, the Lizard, Lundy,
Beacliy Head, the Start, and the South Stack, all of which (with the exception of the
Lizard, which is catoptric fixed, and the Lundy and Start, which are dioptric revolving *)
are catoptric revolving lights. We are, however, of opinion that this preference of
the larjie reflecting lights arises not from any inherent superiority of the catoptric
system, but from the fact that the dioptric principle, owing to errors of adjustment, has
never yet been allowed a full and fair chance in the United Kingdom, and a saving of
oil has also been unfortunately attempted in various ways, chiefly by the use of the
inefficient fountain lamps, in all the dioptric lights with the exception of those in Scotland,
which has not been considered in the great revolving catoptric lights with 30 Argand
burners. This subject will be reverted to in the following section.
3rd. Tlie adaptation of the source of Ughf, and flie optical apparatus to one another,
with a view to the ref/uiremenfs of the locality.
This ought to be considered with reference to the object Avhich it is proposed to eifect,
namely, in most cases, to send a bright light to the sea-horizon, and at the same time to
illuminate sufnciently the nearer portions of the sea. (See Plates 1 and 2 at the end of
Vol. I., and Vol. I. p. 67-)
The source of light never is one luminous point, but a figure having length,
breadth, and depth, and is composed of a vast number of luminous points, some
of which are placed at considerable distances from others. The vertical and lateral
divcrgfuce of lighthouse beams depends in a great measure on the size and shape,
as well as on the position of the source of light placed in the apparatus ; and though
works on Lighthouse Illumination often mention the flame as if all its parts seat
some portion of light to all places from which the light can be seen, such is not the
fact. Lighthouse apparatus, like any other lenses or reflectors, form within the
apparatus "an image of the landscape outside with greater or less accuracj- ; and
when the flame is so placed inside as to coincide with the image formed by the apparatus,
ravs will proceed from points in the image to corresponding points in the landscape, along
the same paths which were followed by the rays which, starting from without, formed
the image within : and different parts of the flame do in fact illimiinate different parts
of the sea and sky.
A photographic camera gives a good illustration of this fact. The lens can be so
placed as to project an inverted image of a landscape on a glass screen. If a lamp is
placed instead of the ground glass, its light will be seen through the lens from those places
whose image corresponds with the position of the lamp, and from no other places. And,
in like manner, the best and most brilliant light may be so placed within a lighthouse as
to be invisible at sea, when the apparatus itself is well constructed.
A mariner, when he looks from a given position, through a dioptric apparatus of the
first order, at a lighthouse lamp with four concentric wicks, is not looking at a single
radiant point placed in the common focus of the instrument. His eye is affected by rays
proceeding from a vast number of radiant points, variously situated, in different parts of
eight different sources of light, of various forms and dimensions, and placed at different
distances from the apparatus, some within and others beyond the focus for parallel raj's.
Each of these sources of light is viewed in many different directions through as many
different pieces of glass ; and every piece of glass, taken separately, is in itself a compli-
cated optical instrument, with curves, angles, and a focus of its own, contrived by its
inventor for a particular purpose, and to form part of a definite whole.
As a lighthouse flame is composed of many irregular figures, there are probably no
two spots equally illuminated by a lighthouse beam.
When such is the complicated nature of the instrument, and when all its parts have
been contrived and made for a particular purpose, any new adjustment or arrangement of
* See the tablo in Vol. 1. The South Foreland light is omitted, as at the time of the inquiry the electric
lieht was being burnt there.
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. IX
these different parts, after they have been so made and put together, must be skilfully
and scicntificall}' done, if it is to be efficient.
It seems to follow, therefore, that the altitude as well as position of every new light-
house, and the size and shape of the light to be placed in it, ought to be known and
fully considered before the apparatus is made and put together.
A beam of a given divergence, with its axis in the plane of the geometrical horizon, or
at right angles to a vertical line, must become invisible from the sea if the light is raised
to a sufficient height above the earth whose surface is curved ; and the more nearly it
approaches that height the less serviceable will it be, because the greater will be the
amount of light thrown on the sky.
It is found in practice that the fact agrees with the theory, and that much light is
now wasted, especially in high lighthouses with low flames.
The experiments tried by our Secretary at the Point of Ayre (see Vol. I. p. 44), and at Present catop-
Bidston(see Vol. I.p. 6l, and our observations made on the Gunfleet Light, Vol. I. p. 3.3) '™ V*
will show that catoptric lights, as at present constructed, do not iulfil perfectly the ^'
conditions required ; that is to say, they throw only a portion of the light produced, on
the sea, where it is wanted. On the contrary, a very large portion is thrown on the sky ;
and as the light at the Point of Ayre is revolving, and shows all round, it illuminates
the highest hills in the Isle of Man, and great part of the light produced is M'asted.
Again, as regards dioptric lights, as at present used in England and Ireland, it has been Present diop-
found that great improvements are possible. A large portion of the light produced even ^"^^%*'*
in those which are best made is novr wasted. In some cases a part of the light is thrown
too high, in others it shines on the land. In some the fault appears to arise from a want
of consideration of the requirements of the locality, in others from want of adjustment
in apparatus ordered with insufficient specification by the Authority giving the order, —
originally constructed by a manufacturer without reference to elevation,- — and finally
placed by the Authorities, without considering the construction, at an elevation for
which it was not fitted. (See the Whitby Paper, Vol. I. p. 63 ; also p. 210, &c.) There
are also cases of faulty manufacture, involving bad glass and inaccurate grinding.
These defects were early noticed by Your Commissioners, and we found them to exist in
lighthouses abroad as well as at home, and one of our first acts on arriving at these
conclusions was to frame the questions of Circulars IX. and X., and address them to such
Scientific men as might be supposed capable of giving a valuable opinion, and to
Manufacturers of Lighthouse apparatus.
But Your Majesty's Commissioners thought it highly desirable that the opinions which Astronomer
they had themselves formed, and those which they might elicit, should, if possible, be ^°^^''
confirmed by the highest available authority.
W'e accordingly applied to the Astronomer Royal for his valuable aid ; and we
wish here to express our high sense of the kindness with which Professor Airy
acceded to our wishes, and of the advantage which we have derived from his
assistance. Our wish v.'as that the Astronomer Ro3'al, a high authority on mathematics
and optics, should have the best opportunity of forming an opinion as to the adjustment of
dioptric apparatus, and with that viev,- he was informed of what had been observed by
us ; the specifications prepared by the Lighthouse Boards in ordering dioptric apparatus
were also laid before him ; and he was requested to accompany your Commissioners,
and to inspect dioptric lighthouses at home and abroad.
Professor Airy readily complied with these requests ; he gave his time and attention
gratuitously ; and the result of his personal observations, as stated by himself in his
reports and letters to the Chairman, will be found in Vol. I. p. 77-
The first light visited by Your Majesty's Commissioners in company with the start Light-
Astronomer Royal was the Start. An account of the proceedings will be found in ^°'^^' ^"^
Vol. I. p. 46, and our subsequent proceedings with reference to the adjustment of Illumin-
ating apparatus are described on the pages which follow. These include special visits
to the Forelands, St. Catherine's Head, the Needles, Ramsgate, and Shoreham, the French
lights of Calais, Grisnez, and Ailly; meetings with Lighthouse Authorities, and other
scientific men, at the North Foreland and Whitby ; a visit by the Astronomer Royal to
Girdleness, in Scotland, and another by Your Commissioners to Minehead and Dungarvon,
in Ireland, and experiments at the works of Messrs. Chance, at Birmingham.
The result of all these proceedings may be summed up in a few words :
1 . The dip of the sea-horizon below the geometrical horizon has never, in the United Summary of
Kingdom, been properly taken into account in dioptric lights, although where the light *^^^^'^'^-
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIOHT.'^, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Consumptwn
of oil insiijfi-
cient; wicks
too few; lamps
imperfect.
Distinction of
lights.
IS high above the surface of the sea, as for instance, 240 feet at "Whitby, this makes the
important difference of 0 • 16 inch in the proper position of the flame.*
2. The various pieces of which a dioptric iUuminating apparatus is composed, have
not even been adjusted to the flame and the geometrical horizon with sufficient accuracy.
The result of this has usually been to send a most unnecessarily large amount of the
ravs upward to the sky, as may be easily determined for each individual piece of glass by
the plan of internal observation devised b}- Mr. Campbell, the Secretary of the Com-
mission.! Professor Holmes has stated that out of 96 prisms at the South Foreland
li'Tht, which he examined from outside, he found 94 faulty in this respect.
3. The flame in English and Irish lights is kept far too low, owing to the use of
only three wicks and of the fountain lamp, which burns on an average only 474 gallons
of oil annually in England, and 442 in Ireland. This has the double disadvantage of
diminishing the upper part of the flame, which is of the greatest service in illuminating
the sea, and of lowering the section of greatest luminosity in the flame below the focus
of the lens, thus causing the brightest portion of the light to be in that portion of the
same which always of necessity sends its rays above the horizon. (See Plates 1, 2,3,
at the end of Vol'. I., and pp. 225, '226.)
This fault was not found to exist in the lights under the Northern Conunissioners, who
make use of a mechanical pump lamp, which burns on an average 794 gallons of oil annu-
allv, and produces good flames of about double the height of those in England or Ireland.
'other remarks on the want of reflectors on the land side of the apparatus, on the
injurious effect of the shoulder of the lamp-glass, on the erroneous position of astragals,
on the want of filters, medicine chests, clocks, signals for day, night, during fogs, <S:c.,
will be frequently found among the personal observations of your Commissioners, and in
the special report on the Whitby Lights in "N^ol. 1. p. 63.
The Elder Brethren of the Trinity House are now alive to the importance of these
subjects, as far as relates to their works, and the scientific adviser to whom they apply in
such cases. Professor Faraday, has now directed his attention to them ; and Your Commis-
sioners anticipate that the defects which have been pointed out will soon be remedied, now
that attention has been called to them, and after their existence has been demonstrated by
so many experiments and observations.
4th. The distinction of one light from another.
Various means are resorted to to effect this important object. Some lights are fixed,
other* are revolving ; some are white, others are coloured. The following tables,
drawn up from the Admiralty lists of lights, will indicate the extent to whicli this dis-
tinauishins; of lights is carried in the three countries : —
Character.
Country.
Fr?fRD.
EEVOLVING, TLASHING, INTERMITTENT.
No. of.
No. of
Interval between maxima of brilliancT.
4 4 '\ 4 '\ 4 4
ns
«
»
si
i»
g 3
a
3
3
3
CO m
S 1 J^
M
s
s
s
1 -
""
■* I ^
<N
n
-♦
England — Tiinitv IIouso
63
19
0
1
1
5
3
0
4
1
3
0
1
Local
60
4
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
1
0
0
Scotland — Northern Commissionei s
23
23
3
2
1
0
3
0
7
0
5
9
0
,, Local ...
60
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
Ireland — Ballast Board
5.5
14
0
1
1
0
1
1
4
1
4
1
0
Lccal
Total
8
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
269
65
3
5
3
5
10
1
18
2
13
4
1
Many of these distinctions again are susceptible of sub-division ; for instance, some
lights, designated " fixed and flashing," give a constant light, besides the waxing and
waning light, with intervals of darkness, while others alternate between brilliancy and
total darkness. Again, the relative duration of light and darkness may be different,
although the intervals between the maxima of brilliancy may be the same.
* The flamc's maintained in the Scotch 1st order lightliouse.s appear to have their sections of maximum
luminosity so high as in some cases to compensate for this neglect, so lar as tiie lenses are concerned.
|- It has since been ascertained that this plan was adopted by M. Fresnel in adjusting the mirior.s abovn
the lenses of his apparatus. See Vol. II. j)age 625, for a descrijjtion of the method referred to above.
RKPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS
White.
COLOURED.
Country.
White
and Red.
Red.
r,,„„„ Red and
^'"'°- 1 Green.
Red,
White, and
Blue.
Green.
England— Trinity House
64
13
5
0
0
0
0
,, Local - - -
31
4
20
4
2
1
2
Scotland — Northern Commissioners -
32
10
3
0
0
1
0
„ Local - -
31
5
25
1
1
0
0
Ireland — Ballast Board
49
16
3
0
0
1
0
„ Local
4
3
3
0
0
0
0
Total - - - -
211
51
59
•5
3
3
2
Colour.
Of the coloured lights all are fixed, with the exception of 14 revolving lights, which
show red and white alternately, and three simple red lights which revolve.
The use of coloured lights has this disadvantage, that the colour is only obtained by
absorbing a large portion of the rays emitted from the lamp, namely those of other colours ;
and, therefore, the required intensity is only obtained by consuming a larger amount of
oil. Again, green and blue hghts are highly objectionable for lighthouses, except for very
short ranges, on account of the readiness with which rays of those colours are absorbed by
the atmosphere if it is at all misty. Red rays, on the contrary, penetrate peculiarly well ;
and, as Your Commissioners have witnessed, furnish an admirable and most useful means
of distinction, one, which in their opinion is not enough resorted to, — a deficiency which
will be at once apparent on a glance at the above table, especially in reference to the
Trinity House, or at the Index Map projected by our Secretary ; but at the same time
we consider that it is highly desirable wherever practicable to make red lights revolve,
in order that the greater quantity of light thus brought into one direction may counteract
the absorption of rays due to the coloured glass. Indeed, Your Commissioners would
willingly see, as far as practicable, all lights in prominent situations revolving, since
a greater range in dull weather is thus obtained, and there is less chance of mistaking
them for ships' lights, which are now often of great brilliancy, or of mistaking ships'
lights for them. At the same time it should be borne in mind that, at the rate at which
ships are now propelled, it is desirable (in order to enable the mariner to secure a bearing)
that some light beside the revolving light, particularly if it is a quick revolving light,
should be visible throughout the whole revolution at as great a distance as possible.
Sometimes two lights, even on separate towers, are exhibited, in order to form a dis-
tinction irom a neighbouring light. By this means the expense is very nearly doubled ;
and where distinction is the only object gained, it appears to show more prodigality
than ingenuity. ( See Vol. II. pp. 6", 252 ; and Vol. I. p. 70.)
It is also desirable that a lighthouse should be a very visible object from the sea by
day. Your Commissioners during their visits had frequent occasion to remark how little
tliis had been considered, especially in Scotland, where the handsome stone towers
unpainted could often be scarcely distinguished at a distance from the grey background.
We recommend that the lighthouses should always be coloured so as to present the
greatest contrast with the background, and that the buildings and walls attached to
the towers should be kept carefully whitewashed where the ground is dark.
The distinction of lighthouses by day is susceptible of much development by the more
extended use of coloured stripes or bands.
There is another important point connected with the quaUty of lighthouses, to
which Your Commissioners have given attention, namely, the means of indicating the
locality during fogs which the light cannot penetrate. This is sought to be effected by
bells, and in one or two instances bv guns ; but it is rarely attempted at stationary light-
houses, except at those built on rocks in the sea, or on piles. We recommend the more
frequent adoption of whatever means may be found most ethcient. (See Vol. I. p. 225.)
Your Commissioners consider it desirable that Admiral FitzRoy's plan of notifying
at the principal ports the approach and course of storms should be extended to certain
of the lighthouses in prominent positions, for the purpose of such information being
signalized thence to passing ships ; and if the Astronomer Royal's proposition for exhi-
biting a» time-ball at the Start should be carried out, such signals might be advantageously
established at that point. Admiral FitzRoy has supplied various lighthouses in the
United Kingdom with the necessary meteorological instruments. In several of the
answers to Your Commissioners' scientific inquiries the same suggestion is touched upon.
Had such a system existed when the Royal Charter was lost, that fearful wreck might
possibly have been avoided.
c 4
More red lights
recommended.
Bed and pro-
minent wliite
lights recom-
mended to be
made revolving.
Two separate
towers objected
The colouring
of lighthouses
with reference
to background
recommended.
Further use oj
fog-signals
recommended.
The signalizing
of storms from
lighthouses re-
commended.
xii REPORT OF COMSIISSIONERS OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Quality compared with Foreign Lights.
^ With reference to the qualitii of the lights of tlie United Kingdoin as compared with
pared with foreign lights, the answers to Questions 4 and 5 of Circular VIII. show that the majority
other countries. *p£ the mariners who use them consider British lights generally to be at least equal to all
others in the world, and that those of France rank next. Out of 586 who have replied to
Question 4, " Do you think that the coasts of the United Kingdom arc as well lighted
"as any of the foreign coasts which you have already mamed ?" — 514 consider the coasts
of the United Kingdom as well lighted as any others with which they are acquainted,
while in repl}' to Question 5, " If you think that the coasts of the United Kingdom are
" not so well lighted as those of any other country or countries, name those countries in
'' the order in which you prefer their lights," — out of 311, 200 express their preference of
the British lights, and only 33 prefer those of any other country. Nor is this due to
any patriotic prejudice in favour of England, for of the 34 masters of foreign vessels
who have answered Question 4, 24 think England as well lighted as any other country they
know ; one is doubtl'ul ; but not one foreigner prefers the lighting of any foreign shore.
These comparisons by the 200 mariners who pi'efer British lights and the 33 who prefer
those of some other country have, however, been more closely analysed ; and it appears that
out of the 200, only 42 profess to be well acquainted with the coasts of France, while it
must be remembered there are 2.5 who express a preference for the French lighting. This
weight of evidence, therefore, in favour of the United Kingdom as compared with France
is not great. Many circumstances also must interfere with the accuracy of such compa-
risons ; for instance, on the one hand an advantage is given to foreign countries by the
greater clearness of the atmosphere, and, on the other hand, an advantage is given to
Great Britain by its shores being the usual landfall of those mariners who have replied
to the questions.
The testimony of the replies given to Question 7 of the same Circular, " What British
" and what foreign light have you usually seen furthest off, and which of the two has been
" usually visible at the greatest distance ?" — is to a similar effect ; but it refers only to the
brightest lights ; and an anal3-sis of these replies gives several additional points of interest.
Such an anal3^sis is made in the tables in Vol. I. pp. 114-119, and the following arc
the principal results : —
579 witnesses have mentioned the 25 Lighthouses named in the table as the British
lights M-hich they have usually seen furthest off.
These have made 184 direct comparisons with the foreign lights which they have
usually seen furthest off.
And, in reply to the question which of the two has been usually seen at the greatest
distance — ,
112 witnesses are in favour of British lights.
72 ,, „ Foreign lights.
Giving a majority in favour of British lights of 40 on 184 comparisons. 15 of the 25
British lights mentioned are preferred to the Foreign lights compared with them ; 1 is
equal; 9 arc inferior ; giving a majority of 6 in favour of British lights. Of the 15
British lights preferred, 9 are catoptric revolving or flashing, 2 catoptric fixed ; 2 dioptric
fixed, 2 dioptric revolving.
Nine British lights are said to be inferior to those Foreign lights compared with them.
Of these British lights 3 are dioptric fixed, 2 dioptric revolving or flashing ; 2 catoptric
fixed, 2 catoptric revolving.
This large preponderance of evidence in favour of the catoptric revolving over the
dioptric revolving, as hitherto exhibited in England and Ireland, and which is further
confirmed by the table in Vol. I. p. 117, fully confirms the remarks made, and the reason
of it and the remedy are there given.
Dioptric revolving lights ought to be very powerful. Of the two which are con-
sidered inferior to the Foreign lights compared with them, the Start is one, and the
condition of that light, which is described by us in Vol. I. p. 46, will show the value of
these comparisons made from observation at sea by the men most interested in the
lights. The other inferior dioptric revolving light is Ballycottin. It appears from the
reply to Question 38, Circular III., that the annual consumption of oil is 354 gallons,
as against the Start 498, the South Foreland 511, Skerry Vore ''d\, Kinnaii'd Head
800, while at Grisnez it is stated to be 785, all of which are dioptric, 1st class. And this
again shows the correctness of the comparisons, lor the oil burned is a measure of the
light produced.
Again, of all the Foreign lights mentioned and compared, Grisnez (probably from its
prominent position) is most frequently named. It is mentioned as seen at great distances
REPORT OP COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. xiii
by 108 witnesses ; but of the 12 British lights compared with it 7 are said to be better, 5
worse ; and of 48 comparisons between it and British lights 30 are in favour of the latter.
The above evidence then goes to show that the quality of British lights (speaking gene-
rally) is cqualto the quality of lights in any part of the world; and the testimony is especially
valuable because the men who give it are mariners, those best able to judge of the appearance
of the light ; and, as appears from their evidence elsewhere, generally knowing nothing
about the manner in which the light is produced. As one witness remarks " They don't
know the ropes," C. and D., (catoptric and dioptric,) but most of them think that first-class
British lights, speaking generally, are as good as most first-class lights which they have
seen abroad, and better than many.
Your Majest3''s Commissioners have no reason to differ from this general opinion ; but
in subscribing to it, we think it necessary to revert again to the various defects that we
have ascertained to exist in the present dioptric lights, especially of England and Ireland,
and to the experiments, observations, and reports that have been made by us or at our
instance on the matter. T'here are, indeed, many particulars in which the quality of
British lights might be greatly improved. (See Vol. I. p. 63.)
There was a time when the shores of this kingdom were unquestionably much better
lit than those of other countries. At that time silvered parabolic reflectors with Argand
lamps Avere considered to be the best of optical apparatus for lighthouses, and they were
largely used and are still retained in very many situations by the General Lighthouse
Authorities. Amongst Local Authorities, smoky lamps, candles, and tin reflectors, some
even painted in front, may even now be found. (See Dover, Vol. II. page 305.)
There are indeed many situations in which reflectors properly kept are supposed by
the Lighthouse Authorities to be as useful as lenses ; and the great labour, care, and
skill bestowed by the keepers on the cleaning of the reflectors assist in making some
British catoptric revolving lights compare favourably with the best lens lights in France.
In catoptric revolving lights, the number of lamps and reflectors on one foce can be
multiplied so as to increase the power. Beachy Head, for example, is a catoptric re-
volving light, showing ten reflectors on one fuce, and is favourably compared with
Grisncz, which is a dioptric flashing light, though Grisnez is some feet higher than
Beachy Head. There is but one lamp at Grisnez, burning, according to regulation, 785
gallons ; at Beachy Head there are thirty lamps, burning about 1,000 gallons of oil in a year.
The fixed catoptric lights of the British Isles are never mentioned by any mariner as Quality com-
having been seen at a great distance, and, indeed, with the exception of the" Lizard, their other c'^u''-
names scarcely occur among the answers to Question 7- There can be no doubt that tries.
they will not bear comparison with revolving lights on the same principle, or with the
dioptric lights of France or Scotland. As to the fixed catoptric lights abroad (there are
scarcely any in France) not one of them seems to be named, except that on Heligoland,
which belongs to the Trinity House.
On comparing the qualifij of British lights with those of foreign countries in the four Particulars
particulars mentioned above, it may be remarked : — of comparison.
1st. With reference to the source of light, the observations of the Commissioners
have placed it beyond doubt that the French have the advantage over the English and
Irish in the height and brilliancy of their flames, owing mainly to their use of the mechanical
lamp. (See Plate 1 at the end of Vol. 1.)
2nd. As to the optical apparatus, the dioptric system, invented and first employed in
France, has been gradually adopted in our own country, and in Scotland some im-
provements have been made in it. There is, however, this important difference : in France
the new apparatus was adopted throughout the whole Lighthouse service ; and in
the United States, and in Spain, it has been lately exclusively adopted in the great refor-
mation of their Lighthouse system just effected by the Governments of those countries ;
but in the United Kingdom the old reflectors have only been replaced from time to time
by the refi acting apparatus; and the Board of Trade now lay down the principle,
that the expense should only be incurred when the reflectors are worn out. It still
remains an open question in some minds whether the change should at once be completed
along the whole shores of Britain, and in other minds whether the purely catoptric principle
is not better than the purely dioptric under certain circumstances ; but few will doubt
that a combination of the two would often be the most efHcient, and such combinations
exist in all countries, but especially in Scotland. Your Commissioners, indeed, are pre- Substitution of
pared to recommend a more rapid substitution of these catadioptric arrangements for the catadioptnc for
simple metallic reflectors now in use at so many situations, and we deem this especially mtusTecom^'''
requisite when the light is a fixed one. If the electric light come into general use, it may mended.
necessitate some important modifications of the existing apparatus.
I. d
XIV REPORT OF C0M5IISSI0KERS ON LIGHTS, BTJOTS, AND BEACONS.
3rd. As the dioptric apparatus used in Ensrland has been obtained from France till
very recently, or consti-ucted on French models, it can be no matter of astonishment that
Your Commissioners found in that country the same errors of adjustment between the
optical ])ieces and the lamp, which they had first remarked at home ; but these errors
were greatly aggravated in England and Ireland, where the flame was low. The excel-
lence of the light at Grisnez was found to be due partly to the height of the flame of
the mechanical Limp, but partly also to the fact that the old-fashioned mirrors had been
well adjusted to the sea-horizon after erection, — a point that cannot be so easily secured
in apparatus of more modern construction (such as is used at Calais), where the totally
reflecting prisms arc secured in their places before the apparatus leaves the manufac-
tory, and without reference to the altitude of the proposed situation. There was, how-
ever, but very slight faidt to be found with the adjustment of the Illuminating apparatus
at Ailly. (See Vol. I. p. 59. and the Astronomer Royal's Report, p. 85.)
4th. In regard to the 'distinction of one light from another by varying its character
the French, according to the Admiralty list-, do not avail themselves so much as the
English of the various means, and the Americans seem to be inferior; but in Spain and
Brazil the proportion of revolving to fixed lights is much greater, and red flashes are
more frequently emplo^•ed than in the United Kingdom.
The United States Authorities pay more attention to the distinction of lighthouses by
day, by means of colour, than the /Authorities in this country.
The French use silk webs in the wicks ; and filter the oil that has flowed through the
burners before returning it to the lamp for another night's consuu:iption.
An account of a bell with a reflector, on Boulogne pier, used in foggy weather, with
evidence as to the extent to which it answers its purpose, will be found in Vol. I. p. 221.
Expense of Construction and Maintenance.
The expense of constructing a lighthouse depends so nmch on the requisite height
of the tower, the accessibilit}- of the site, the facility of procuring material or workmen,
and many other circumstances varying with the locality or the character of the work, that
it is difficult to form a comparison between the practice of different boards in this respect ;
yet there are some points which appear worthy of remark.
The triumphs of Lighthouse engineering are those towers which rise in the midst of an
open sea on small isolated rocks or reefs that are washed over by the v.aves. The
Eddystone was the first of this class, but it has been exceeded in magnitude, and in the
difficulties overcome in the construction, by three more recent erections, the heights and
total cost of each of which are given below : —
Bell Rock, Scotland, East Coast; height, 117 feet; cost, 61,331/. 9-^. '2d.
Skerrv Vore, „ West Coast ; „ 158 „ „ 8.3,126/. 12s. \d.
Bishop Rock, England, Scilly Isles ; „ 145 „ „ 36,559/. 1 85. 9f/.
The two last are, to a certain extent, comparable works, both being erected on
rocks almost covered by the sea at high water, both far from land, and exposed to the
force of the Atlantic, and both more or less on the model of the Eddystone ; yet the
Bishop which is nearly as tall as the Skerry Vore, cost in construction less than half
what was expended on that magnificent work. It must be remembered, however, that
at Skerry Vore the workmen, the materials, and all the requisite stores, had to be
conveyed a distance five times as great as at Scilly which in that stormy region
rendered the chances of landing much more precarious, and that a quarry and a
harbour had to be formed; circumstances which involved a large expense that cannot be
estimated with any precision.
Again, in Scotland, there are a number of modern Lighthouses on the mainland, as at
Girdleness, Buchaimess, Covesea Skerries, and Ardnamurchan, handsome towers from 115
to 120 feet in height, with substantial edifices for keepers around their base, and these have
cost 10,000/. or 1 1,000/. for the building alone. The only Lighthouse on the mainland in
England equalling them in height, and fairly comparable is that at St. Catharine's Head,
in the Isle of Wight, which cost 7,6/3/. 17a'. 2f/. It also is of stone. The Irish Light-
house at Kinsale, 100 feet high, is somewhat comparable with these Scotch erections,
and cost about 9,000/.
The usual Lighthouses on the mainland of England, or on rocky islands, built by the
Trinity House, arc nuich smaller erections, often costing no more than from 3,0U0/. to
5,000/., and rarely exceeding 7,500/. ■
The average cost of a Lighthouse on the mainhmd, or on rocky islands, in Scotland, is
about 8,1 '00/.
REPORT OP COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. Sv
In general the Irish Lighthouses, even on the mainland, have been erected at an expense
of 10,000/., but this includes the Illuminating apparatus, and in some instances the
formation of a road.
The only complaints which the Commissioners have heard respecting the cost of erection
of Lighthouses have been with reference to the Scotch, and luive proceeded from the Board
of Trade. (See Oral Evidence, answer 928.) The structures erected during this
century in that country are doubtless most substantially built, generally of granite, and of
great height ; there seems to be very little outlay on mere ornament, and they present a
noble appearance as public works ; but when the great difference in cost between them
and English Lighthouses designed to serve a similar purpose is considered, there can be
little doubt either that the Scotch and Irish Authorities have not paid due regard to
economy, or that the English Authorities, keeping economy too closely in view, have not
erected edifices worthy of themselves and of the nation ; unless, indeed, there be some cir-
cumstances which render similar erections necessarily more costly in Scotland and Ireland.
If it is difficult to compare justly the cost of construction between the different por- ^
tions of the United Kingdom, it is still more difficult to draw a comparison with the coastruction
expense incurred in countries where labour is very differently remunerated, and where the for"fTc!)un'''
Management of Lighthouses is centralized in the National Government. Yet some tries,
interesting data for such a comparison have been obtained.
On turning to France we arrive at some startling results, — The Pharede Brehat, on the
north-west coast of France, stands on a rock at sea like the Skerry Vore or the Bishop
Rock, but more under high water than they are ; it is built of granite, and equals the
SkciT}' Vore tower in height, at least -within afoot or two, yet the total expense, including
that of the 1st order dioptric apparatus, is stated to have been only i'3,120/. The pay-
ments to the Government engineers, the transport of material by Government vessels, and
some other matters, are probably not included ; and other circumstances, including expo-
sure to storms, were more favourable, thus rendering the comparison of little value, yet
the smallness of the sum is striking.
Again, the French have built at Calais a tower of brick and calcareous stone, hand-
somely fitted up within, as is the case generally with 1st order French lights, 167 feet
high, and therefore taller than any lighthouse tov/er in the British Isles, and half as tall
again as the Scotch towers in analogous situations, which cost 10,000/. or 11,000/., but
the Calais Lighthouse was completed for 7,-i79f- The Harbour Lights in France,
though differing greatly from one another, as might be expected, are said to cost on
an average 320/. for their erection. In the British Isles Harbour Lights are generally
under Local Authorities, and they differ more widely still, in fact from a common "-as
lamp post to lighthouses of large pretensions as the 1st order catadioptric light at
Hartlepool ; yet there are some in each division of the United Kingdom which have
cost about the same as the French average ; for instance, at Penzance in Enoland, at
Peterhead in Scotland, and at Cork in Ireland. Some buildings have cost less, but the
majority have had a larger sum expended on their erection than the French.
The average expense of construction of four Spanish Lighthouses of the first order,
height not stated, is only 5,450/., including everything, and not one of those buildings,
particulars of which have been kindly furnished by Senor Lucio del Valle, cost more
than 7,611/. Their Lighthouses for Harbours appear to be more expensive than the
French.
The American first-class light, described in the lleturn from the United States, cost
8,600/.
The Dutch have constructed a stone lighthouse on the coast at West Schouwen of
the great height of 166 feet, only one foot less than that at Calais, with brick houses for
the keepers, which, including the 1st order revolving apparatus, cost only 6,400/.
The Danish Government, on the other hand, has paid 10,673/. for a burnt brick and
granite lighthouse, including the illuminating apparatus, at Skagen.
The lighthouse at the " Hohe Weg," Bremen, built of freestone, brick, and clinkers,
cost, including the illuminating apparatus, 10,996/.
The Norwegian Government built the lighthouse at Little Foerder for 7,500/., and the
iron one at Rundo, which is 110 feet high, for 10,800/.
In comparing these sums with those mentioned previously as expended in Great
Britain, it must be borne in mind where a 1st order dioptric apparatus is included, that
it costs from 1,500/. to 2,000/.
On the whole, therefore, the outlay of Foreign Governments in the construction of
Lighthouses, making every allowance for the advantages which a more centralized system
gives in such a comparison, appears to be rather greater than the outlay incurred by the
English Board.
d 2
REPORT OF C0M5IISSI0NERS 0\ LIGHTS. BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Expense of
maintenance.
Expense of Maintenance.
The expense of maintenance of a light depends to a great extent on its class. It
■would be futile to attempt a comparison by taking the whole amount expended on
liahting the coasts by each General Authority, or by each different country, and
dividing that by the number of lights, unless it were ascertained that the different classes
were in the same proportion, and that all expenses of lightships or buoys were excluded.
The returns asked for by Your Commissioners tell the annual cost of each Lighthouse
in 1858, under several distinct heads, and from these returns has been drawn up the
following table of averages, which refers only to 1st order dioptric lights, or catoptric
lights of the largest description: —
Expense of
maintenance
compared with
foreign coun-
tries.
Country.
Oil.
Wick
s. Keepers'.Salarics.
Repairs of
Building.
Repairs
Appara
of
us.
Paintii
g-
Total
Expenditure
(as returned).
£
s.
d.
f
s.
dJ £ s. d.
f s. d.
£ K
d.
£
s.
d.
£ s. d.
England — Dioptric
7(3
18
0
1
14
2 126 10 9
2 suits of
clothes, coals.
&c.
29 6 2
13 2
4
24
2
8
265 o 1
„ Catoptric
127
6
2
1
6
5 141 8 4
1 2 suits of
1 clothes, coals.
! &c.
30 8 0
15 0
6
21
1
8
340 .5 0
Scotland — Dioptric
133
3
2
1
1
0 116 15 7
and land.
1 8 8
8 13
0
2
0
0
380 9 6
„ Catoptric
136
5
0
2
13
6 109 13 1
and land.
2 13 3
8 6
4
2
1
4
385 12 7
Ireland — Dioptric -
1 ■>
10
0 :2
5
0 119 17 .5
3 6 U
7 19
4
34
.5
6
405 9 5
,. Catoptric -
140
<)
0 2
4
9 110 1.5 4
9 11 2
23 5
(
44
o
1
485 11 3
From this it is evident at a glance that as the Scotch dioptric lights burn a larger
amount of oil than the English or Irish, they are more expensive in that item ; but in
this particular, expense becomes a measure of efficiency. The Scotch effect a saving
in oil, amounting to about 1,300/. per annum, by lighting and extinguishing their lamps
not at sunset and sunrise, but at the going away and reappearance of dayliglit, periods
calculated separately and tabulated according to the latitude of each station. The amount
burnt in the large catoptric lights of each country is about the same, oil being Id. or 2cl. per
gallon cheaper in England than in Scotland or Ireland. Kepairs of building is a larger item
in the English than in the other Lighthouses, as they are usually older constructions, and
of a less substantial character, "^rhe Scotch towers are generally not painted. As to
the total expenditure, there is evidently a discrepancy in the manner in which it has
been returned bv the different Authorities, the Northern Commissioners and the Ballast
Board having included items not included by the Trinity House, thus showing a greater
discrepancv than exactness would warrant.
Besides the expenditure incurred in the individual Lighthouses, theie are the general
expenses of the Authority having charge of them. I'his is an important subject of
inquiry, but will be better treitcd of under the head of " System of Slanagement."
The following table will afford the means of comparing the expense of maintenance
of a first order dioptric light in foreign countries with that incurred in England, Scotland,
and Ireland : —
Country.
France
Spain
Denmark
IJrehat (Rock)
Mainland lights
average of four
Average
Skapren
Total Ex
penditure.
£
s. d.
415
0 0
320
0 0
340
0 0
274 17 11
The French Government pays the keepers much less than is paid by any of the General
Authorities in the United Kingdom, but its outlay in oil is very properly greater than
in England or Ireland. The United States, on the contrary, pay as mueh as 27CL
in keepers' salaries for a fir.-;t-order Lighthouse, whilst the Trinity House, as shown in the
preceding table, ])ays on an average \'26/. lOs. Qd.
REPORT OF COMJIISSIONEES ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
FLOATING LIGHTS.
The number of Floating Lights in position in the United Kingdom is 47-
They are thus distributed —
Country.
England — Trinity House
Local Authoritie.s
Scotlanil — Northern Commi.ssioners
„ Local Autlioritie.s
Ireland — Ballast Board
Local Aiithoritie.s
Total
Floating Lights in
position.
Floating Lights
in reserve.
34
7
1
4
1
Of the Floating Lights under the Local Authorities, Liverpool has three and Hull
two ; there is one in the Solway, and another in the Tees ; one in the Clyde, and the
remaining one in Lough Foyle.
The Index Map shows the positions of these vessels. They appear to have been Position,
chosen with good judgment, for very few complaints are made in the evidence of the
mariners.
It can hardly be said that the Floating Lights even of England were sufficient when sufficiency
the Commission commenced its sittings, but the Trinity House is extending its mode of
action in this respect, having placed two new vessels during the past year, the one in
Cardigan Bay, the other on the Varne Shoal in the Channel. Additional Floating
Light^ are still suggested in the Mariners' Evidence, especially one to mark the Inner or
Outer Dowsing, and we learn that the Trinity House have just obtained permission to
place one there.
The question of their sufficiency depends also in some measure on the solution of a
problem, which Mr. Herbert of the Trinity House proposes to make the subject of ex-
periments on a large scale.
It has been proposed by him to extend the principle of lighting by establishing
Floating Lights in the Fairway — the hulls to be constructed on the principle of his buoys,
and the light the best known. ',{¥ov description and drawing, see Vol. II. p. 618.)
The evidence which the Commissioners have obtained from the Masters of Light-vessels
goes to prove that the most exposed situations are not necessarily the most dangerous or
disagreeable. The Masters of the Seven Stones and Coningbcg Lightvessels agreed in
saying, that the long sea, and great length of chain required to anchor in deep water, made
their stations, which are the most exposed in the kingdom, easier to ride in than stations
where the sea is shorter, the water shallower, and the current stronger ; such as at Arklow,
the Owers, and Cockle ; and the Master of the Lightvessel in the Humber, who had
crossed the Atlantic 60 times, said that he had never met with so " nasty" a sea as in the
River Humber.
This, which at first sight appears strange, is explained by the fact, that when thewind
is strong and its direci:ion across a strong tide, a vessel often rides broadside to the sea.
In the open sea the tides are not so strong, and the waves are longer.
The Lightvessel at the Goodwin was seen by the Commissioners so riding, to wind-
ward of her moorings, broadside to the sea, and rolling heavily.
The efficiency of a Floating Light depends on the attention paid to the four points dwelt Quality.
on in reference to the quality of Lights on shore (seepage 6), with one very important
addition, namely, that it should remain on its station in all weathers.
The best proof that the lights are efficient in the last particular is to be found in the
statements of the Lighthouse Authorities, which are full}^ confirmed by the evidence of
mariners. The Lightvessels very seldom go adrift, and there is no instance on record in
which the crew have voluntarily run from their stations in bad weather. When they
have been driven from their moorings, the vessels have always been replaced in a very
short time, and none have ever been wrecked. The Mariners' Evidence on this point is
valuable, because the rare instances in which Lightvessels have been off their stations are
repeatedly mentioned by independent witnesses as remarkable events. It does not appear
that the lights have ever been accidently extinguished.
Much has to be learned about the best form for resisting the force of winds and Form of light
waves when the vessel is always at anchor. The shape of the hull now varies con- '"'^"''•
siderably. Some are longer than others. The part of the vessel to which the moorings
are attached, and the points where the chains enter, are different. The Irish vessels are
dS
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
i?er/ revolving
liyhts rcfom-
inenihd.
Improverl fuy
tuynals recom-
mended.
Expense of
construction.
generally longer and sharper than those in England, and set an after-sail when its use
enables them to ride more easily. We have endeavoured to obtain evidence on these points,
and have received man}' valuable opinions in reply to our questions on flotation. The
testimony of the men on board has been in favour of considerable length, fine entrance,
and a low point for attaching the moorings ; but wc would recommend this branch of
scientific inquiry to the attentive consideration of those who have to decide the question
practically, as these questions materially aflfect the steadiness of the light, security of
ship, and safety and comfort of the men.
The source of light in lightships is invariably the combustion of oil. Mechanical
or large lamps arc not employed.
The apparatus by which the light is directed to where it is needed, consist of silvered
reflectors and Argand lamps. In three instances only has the dioptric system been
adopted in lightships, one of them being the local floating light of Stockton-on-Tees.
I'he reflectors are also smaller afloat ; and with one or two exceptions only one reflector
is shown on each face, and can be seen at once. The silver is much more liable to injury,
and the reflectors were generally found to be in a less brilliant condition than any that'
were seen on shore ; though in some of the vessels the reflectors were quite as well
polished as any seen. Reflectors also wear out much sooner at sea.
it is a question for consideration, whether the dioptric principle might not be more
generally introduced into floating lights ; and whether some of the improved methods of
producing light might not l)e adopted afloat. The science of illumination, as regards
floating lights, requires development, especially as ships' lights are now made so
brilliant.
The existing distinctions in Floating Lights are given in the subjoined table, as far as
our returns indicate.
Country.
Total.
Number.
Number of Lights.
Character.
Colour.
1 Light.
■2 Lights.
3 Lights.
yixed.
Revolving.
Fixed and
Uevolving
White.
Red.
Red and
White.
England— T. H. -
„ Local -
Scotland -
„ Local -
Ireland— B. B. -
,, Local -
33
4
1
20
6
1
1
11 2
1 —
2 I
19
7
3
1
3
1
1
9
6
4
1
2
I
2
Total
45 j 28
1
14 ' 3
1
30 ' 13
2
40 1 3
2
In regard to the distinction of the light of one lightship from another, or from shore
lights, or from the lights of moving vessels. Your Commissioners cannot help thinking
that red might be more frequently used, provided the revolving dioptric apparatus is
adopted, and that a larger proportion might advantageously be made to revolve, provided
the rapidity of revolution be sufficient to prevent the long extinction of the light.
Another point is the colour and distinguishing mark of floating lights by day ; for it
is important to every mariner to be enabled to recognize a particular lightvcssel at a
glance.
The Trinity House Lightvessels are painted red. In Ireland they are black with a
white streak. At Liverpool, two are red and one black ; and they are all distinguished by
balls hoisted at the mastheads, and by other signals, and some have their names painted
on their sides. Black and red seem to be the colours which contrast best with the colour
of the sea, and they are in fact best seen.
Gongs are used as fog-signals in the lightvessels of the Trinity House and Ballast
Board ; but Your Commissioners are satisfied that they are not sufficiently powerful, and
recommend the provision of a more efficient warning in fog as a subject of investigation
and experiment.
Expense of Construction and Maintenance.
The average cost of a lightvessel when fully equipped, exclusive of stores, is as
follows : —
England — Trinity House
„ Liverpool
„ Hull (small)
Ireland — Ballast Board
£
3,622
4,547
2,436
6,224
The Return from Liverpool does not include the cost of the Crosby Channel Floating
Light. One of the two vessels belonging to Hull, viz., the Hebbles, is very small.
REPORT OP COMMISSIONERS OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
The Floating Lights in Ireland are of a larger size and better character than the average
of those in England.
1 he average annual expense of maintaining a Floating Light in the United Kingdom Expense of
is as follows : —
maintenance.
Country.
Ordinary
Eepairs and
Painting.
Expense
Oil.
of
Wages.
Victualling
Allowances.
Total
Expenditiu-e
in 1858
(as returned).
£ A. d.
£ s.
d.
£ s. d.
£ ;?. d.
£ i. d.
England — Trinity House
70 8 5
59 7
8
430 19 2
11 suits of
uniform.
301 2 6
1,103 18 1
„ Liverpool
450 0 0
103 13
4
480 13 4
408 12 0
1,464 11 3
„ Hull
40 6 2
38 14
9
284 5 0
219 8 9
Ireland — Ballast Board
586 4 9
90 6
8
423 18 0
256 12 9
1,320 15 11
The Floating Lights of the Trinit}^ House are brought into harbour to be repaired
from time to time, and this is not reckoned among the ordinary repairs and painting,
hence the smallness of the sum in the first column of the above table. In the total ex-
penditure this seems to be included.
There is little room for comparison between the Floating Lights in England and those Comparison
of any other country. France has onl^' two, and Spain has not established any. The Jountdel'^"
United States are better provided, having 48, but they were confessedly in a very
inefficient condition till recently, when those of England were copied, possibly- with some
improvements. Their vessels are painted in stripes and bands, and of various colours, so
as to be recognized at once.
It is stated in America that the vessels used frequently to leave their stations and run
into harbour in heavy weather ; indeed, that is admitted in the return forv/arded b^^ the
United States Government.
The following table gives the cost of a Lightvessel when complete for service, and the
annual expense of maintenance in several foreign countries :^
Country.
Name of Vessel.
Cost of Vessel.
Cost of Maintenance.
United States
" Nantuck.et, New South Shoals "
" Fingrundet " -
Average of Three
" Bremen " - -
" Kobbergrunden " - -
" Paarde Markt " - -
"Noord Hinder"
£ .«.
About 4,375 0
3,500 0
3,500 0
2,564 0
5,606 4
2,968 10
3,100 0
d.
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
About
£ 5. d.
1,354 0 0
Hamburg
Brem.en
Denmark
Belgium
740 0 0
685 0 0
Further details are to be found in the Returns.
It is evident that whether at home or abroad it is far more costly to maintain a Light
afloat than on shore, and where the Light itself cannot be made perfectly stationary,
a refined adjustment of the illuminating apparatus to the horizon would be injurious.
Where practicable, therefore, stationary buildings should be erected, such as the Screw-
pile Lighthouses at the mouth of the I'hames, and elsewhere.
BUOYS.
The number of Huoys in the United Kingdom, as far as can be ascertained from the Numbc
Returns,_ is as follows; but as there are many Local Authorities which have given no
information, the number must be defective in this respect. Wreck Buoys and Warping
Buoys are excluded from the Returns.
Country.
Buoys in
position.
England — Trinity House -
„ Admiralty
„ Local Authorities
Scotland — Northern Commissioners
„ Local Authorities
Ireland — Ballast Board
„ Local Autliorities
Total
d4^
356
65
375
92
64
53
104
1,109
Buoys in
reserve.
4S8
79
56
573
KEPORT OF COiOnSSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS. AND BEACONS.
Sufficiency.
Sufficiency
compared with
foreign coun-
tries.
Quality.
Uniform .«y.9.
tnn of hw„,,i, i
rmmtmriiflcif
ivith dark,
cvhun:.
Quality com-
pared with
foreign coun-
tries.
The position of these buoys is marked in the charts, which have been furnished by the
several Authorities, but it was not thought necessary to pubhsh these. The position of
the buoys are marked on the Admiralty Charts.
Vervfew alterations are suggested in the positions of existing buoys by those who
have answered the Circulars addressed to Mariners and to Lloyd's Agents ; and, on the
whole, there does not seem to be ground for dissatisfaction in respect to position.
The number of buoys in some districts appears to be amply sufficient. In other districts
there are hardlv any, and in others more are wanted. The Replies of ^klarincrs to
Question 23 show in detail where the witnesses desire that buoys should be placed, and
similar evidence is given by Lloyd's Agents, who frequently speak of the waut of buoys
in certain localities, especially in Scotland and Ireland.
Some instances of uealect have come to the knowledge of the Commissioners; as at
Limerick, where the buoys have gradually disappeared, and never been replaced, though
there were ample funds expressly for the purpose.
That the coasts of the United Kingdom are better supplied with buoys thau any
forei"-n coasts is borne out by the almost unanimous opinions expressed by the 488
persoiis who follow the sea, who have answered Question 14 of Circular VIII.
The prime requisites in a buoy are that it should be conspicuous, distinctive, and
permanent.
It appears from the Returns, however, that buoys are liable to various accidents,
especially that of being fouled or run down by ships. Of the 356 Trinity House buoys in
position," only 14 broke adrift in 1858; none of the egg-bottomed or flat-bottomed buoys
were so' displaced in that year. Of the 92 buoys belonging to the Northern Commis-
sioners, 2 only broke adrift in 1858 ; and of the 53 buoys under the Ballast Board, only
the same number ; while of the 608 buoys under local authorities a somewhat larger
proportion, namely 35, broke adrift, tho'ugh these latter generally ride in nuich less
exposed situations.
Some buoys, for instance those under the Admiralty in the fairway leading into
Portsmouth Harbour, disappear under water as soon as the tide becomes strong, and only
reappear at slack water (see Vol. I.). Generally speaking, the buoys in use are not
constructed on scientific principles ; but there are others, either used or designed, which
show more thought. Herbert's buoys have been tried on a large scale at Liverpool,
in Ireland, and in England, and appear, when properly constructed, to be excellent.
Lenox's, Poulter's, and Peacock's buoys, and many other forms, appear also to ride
successfully; and in the Clyde there are large iron buoys of peculiar construction,
wliich are commended.
The best form for a conspicuous floating body, to be permanentl3- anchored at a
particular spot, and the best method of securing it, have yet to be decided.
We have also asked and obtained the evidence of scientific men on this point, and
would specially recommend the subject to the Authorities who have to deal practically
with it. ' , .
Another and a very important inquiry as to the efficiency of buoyage is the system on
which channels and harbours are buoyed, and whether, indeed, any system is adopted.
Till lately there was no attempt at uniformity in an^- part of the British Isles, but the
Northern" Commissioners adopted u system, the main feature of which is placing red
buovs on the starboard hand in entering the harbour, and black on the port hand. The
Irish Board have frequently adopted a system too, but it is exactly the reverse of the
Scotch ; and only last year" the Trinity House have decided to buoy channels uniformly,
but on a totallv "different plan ; namely, red or black buoys to starboard, and chequered
to port, but they do not contemplate applying it to channels already buoyed. The
Board of Trade has required that Lough Swilly in Ireland should be buoyed on this
system. In the meantime some of the Local Authorities, as those at Liverpool and the
Clvde, have adopted systems of their own, which may or may not be the same as that
of "the 'General Authority in the same country ; the Admiralty have no uniform system.
Your Majesty's Commissioners recommend that some national system he introduced into
the United Kingdom, and that the colours adopted in it should be dark. In support of this
we would again call attention to the Mariners' Evidence. Of 268 mariners who have
replied to Question 28, 148 are in favour of a tmiform system, and a very large majority
of those who have replied to Question 17, prefer black and red for colours, and angular
forms, as being the most visible on the sea. The disadvantage of white under such
circumstances "has been frequently illustrated. (See Vols. I. and II.) Attention is
directed to var-nus proposed systems of buoyage, which will be found in Vol. I.
The buoys in foreign countries do not appear to etjual those of the British Isles either
in size or general efficiency ; but the adoption of a national system of buoyage, as in
France, is "evidently an advantage. The French contemplate improving their buoyage,
and we saw a vcrylargc Herbert's Bell buoy in construction.
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. xxi
The original cost of a buoy varies greatly with its character and size. The Trinity Expense of
House generally employ Can buoys costing from 2//. to 36/., but it has many of a better construction.
kind costing 58/., 130/., and even 197/-, when complete. The Ballast Board makes most
use of a buoy costing 26/., but those costing 42/. lOs. or 62/. are not infrequent, and their
largest Herbert's buoy cost 99/- 4a-. The Northern Commissioners, on the other hand, do
not employ any other than the old Nun and Can buoys, costing from 16/. I6.y, to
31/. lOs.
The repairs required by a buoy arise mainly from accidents. Painting, however, is a Expense of
regular expense, costing annua% from 21. lOs. to 5/. 5^. each in Ireland ; 7s. 6d. in ™'"°'*°^'=«-
Scotland ; and the mere expense of the paint in England, as it is done by the crews of
Floating Lights when off" duty.
The United States Government commonly use Nun and Can buoys, costing from Cost compared
40/. to 100/. The Spanish obtains its buoys from England. ^Itnltf^"
BEACONS.
It is impossible to determine the number of Beacons in the British Isles, for the word ^'""ber.
itself is somewhat indefinite, particularly in the Local Returns, where they cannot be rigidly
distinguished from other small leading marks. The following numbers all refer to struc-
tures of some magnitude : —
England — Trinity House - -67
„ Admiralty - - 7
„ Channel Islands - - 19
Scotland — 'Northern Commissioners 33
Clyde - - - 82
Ireland— Ballast Board - - 53
The positions of these and other beacons are given in the Admiralty Charts.
They appear to be fully sufficient in some places, but deficient in others. The ^''5'''°°-
positions where more beacons are wanted are mentioned in the Replies to Question 23 Sufficiency.
of Mariners' Evidence, and in the Evidence collected through Lloyd's Agents.
In rivers and estuaries in the United Kingdom and elsewhere, beacons are commonly
sticks, or beams of wood planted in the mud, or fixed to rocks. Sometimes a beacon is Q"=i'ity-
a pile of stones, but there are also beacons of solid masonry, and structures of iron
solidly fixed in places where such marks have been thought sufficient, and a light was
not thought necessary. There is a beacon on a rock near Stornaway, which reflects light
directed upon it from a lighthouse on shore. Hollow pile beacons have been erected on
some shoals, as on the Goodwin Sands, and might advantageously be substituted in other -f* beacons
places for buoys, just as permanent pile lighthouses are being in some places substituted ''™""™*''-
for floating lights.
The beaconage of the United Kingdom, like the buoyage, is on no uniform system of
colour, or form, or construction ; and generally nothing but local knowledge enables a
mariner to tell his position by the beacons alone. The navigation of the Clyde is much
facilitated by beacons solidly built at short distances from one another, and marked
both by colour and by other indications, so as to show on which side of them is the
channel. What is there eff'ected might be attempted with advantage in other places Uniform .«</«-
under other iurisdictions. tem of colouring
-' 1- 11 11 PI TT'iT- 1 beacons com-
Speakmg generally, the beaconage ot the United kingdom admits of great improve- '«««*<^-
ment. The number might be increased, and the quality improved, and the efficiency of
the service advanced.
The expense of erecting a beacon depends of course wholly on the nature of the con-
struction and of the site. The cost varies from that of the beacon on the Wolf Rock oflf Expense of
the Land's End, amounting to 11,298/., to that of "Jack-in-the-Basket," at the entrance of andma'nte"
Lymington Creek, a mere pole painted white, with a basket at its top. The Pabba Beacon °''"<^'^-
in the Sound of Skye, the latest erected in Scotland, is of malleable iron, 40 feet in
height, and cost 502/. 5*. 2d. The expense of maintenance is in many cases nil, and
never should be much, unless in situations where the nature of the position is such
that damage is frequently being caused by the almost irresistible force of the sea.
The beacons \\hich your Commissioners have seen abroad, and those described in the Comparison
Returns from foreign countries, do not seem to be better than those of the United Tountries.'*^"
Kingdom, except in so far as there is a national s^'stem.
In France the beacons and buoys are coloured on the same plan, and even patches of
rocks on different sides of channels are (according to the Returns) painted black and red.
I. e
XXn REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, T^UOYS, AND BEACONS.
lu SMeden, the trees which are planted in the water, on one side of a channel, have a
bunch of branches at the top, and those on the other side are left bare, and the principle
of indicating compass bearings of shoals is acted on.
SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT-
The system of management and control under which Lights, Buoys, and Beacons are
constructed and maintained in this kingdom as laid down by the Merchant Shipping Act
\7 & 18 Vict., c. 104., is as follows:
The several Authorities mentioned in the Act are, 1st, the Queen in Council ; 2nd, the
Committee of the Privy Council for Trade ; 3rd, the Trinity House ; 4th, the two other
General Lighthouse Authorities, namely, the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses for
Scotland and the Port of Dublin Corporation, or Ballast Board for Ireland ; 5th, Local
Authorities, of which there are about IJO.
System of Control.
1st. Tlie Queen in Counri/ maj- transfer to a General Lighthouse Authority the
powers of a Local Authority within its jurisdiction making default in erecting, maintain-
ing, or placing any local lighthouse, buoy, or beacon. (Sec. 395-)
The same power may consent to the following acts by the General Lighthouse
Authorities : — Exemption from dues ; alteration of mode of collection ; substitution of
dues (Sec. 398) ; and may fix dues for new lights, or alter their amount (Sec. 410).
So i'ar as Your Commissioners are informed, the powers of Local Authorities have very
rarelv been transferred from the Local Authorities who exercise them. One case was
the Light at Douglas, Isle of Man, lately transferred from the Local Authority to the
Scotch Board. Provision has to be made for dues in such a case. Sees. 395 and 413
seem to give the necessary powers. Under Sec. 397 the Queen in Council may alter dues.
2nd. T/ie Board of Trade may, on complaint of ineflficiency, authorize persons to
inspect all Lighthouses, Buoys, and Beacons under the General Lighthouse Authorities,
and may at all times demand from them returns, explanations, ^c. (Sec. 393).
From the evidence before Your Commissioners it appears that the first of these powers
has been very httle exercised, and that the latter has to a very great extent. Sec Corre-
spondence, Abstracts, &c.
The Board of Trade may sanction interference with Local Authorities hy General
Authorities ( Sec. 394 \ but Your Commissioners are not informed that they have ever
been asked to do so. This section gives large powers to the General Authorities, but they
have been exercised only to a very small extent, if at all.
On the contrary, it appears from a letter dated 9th February 1859 (see Vol. II. p. 631 ),
that as regards the Harbour Lights marked in the Admiralty lists, the Board of Trade
had " no information to enable them to state by whom they were then managed " ; and it
further appears, from the Return of the Scotch Board, that the Commissioners for
Northern Lighthouses could only furnish a list of these Local Authorities, so far as
known, and it does not appear from the Returns or from the personal observations of Your
Commissioners or from the oral evidence, that local lights are inspected or interfered with
to anv extent b\- any of the General Authorities.
Your Commissioners have reason to believe that very little control of any kind has
been exercised over the Local Authorities, and we generally found the lights to be less
efficient than those managed by the General Lighthouse Authorities, and to be managed
on no regular system of any kind.
The Board of Trade may direct the General Authorities to account for and pay
over to the Paymaster-General the dues collected by them (Sec. 402), and this they have
accordingly done. There was on February 6, I860 a very large surplus. 361,645/. 1«. 2d.,
invested in Excliequer bills and cash in the hands of the Paymaster-General. ( See Return
Light Dues, February 6, I860. Parliamentary Paper.)
The Board of Trade may decide questions in dispute between the Trinity House and
the other two General Lighthouse Authorities b}- granting or withholding their sanction,
either wholly or partially, and cither with or without modification in relation to the
matters submitted to them (Sec. 406). The directions given by the Board of Trade in
relation to the matters aforesaid shall fortliwith be communicated by the Trinity House
to the General Authority in question, and that Authority is bound to act in conformity
therewith (Sec. 407). Under Sec. 408 the Board of Trade may sanction directions of
the Trinity House to the other two Lighthouse Authorities, but we do not find that the
Board of Trade are empowered by the Act to direct the Trinity House as to their
managentenf ; and we arc informed that the Board of Trade, whatever may be the nature
and extent of the power which they actually exert, only c/aim " the control of the purse."
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. XXIU
( See Mr. Milnev Gibson's Evidence, Q. 82.) But the power given to the Board of
Trade by Sec. 405, which seems intended only to meet cases in which the Trinity
House do not signify their approval of the works which the other General Authorities
submit to them for their sanction, appears to have been taken to embrace other cases,
and to include a power of control over the Trinity House ; and such a power of control
has been exercised in man}^ instances in England, Ireland, and Scotland.
Under Sees. 408, 409, the Board of Trade have power to sanction directions
originating with the Trinity House, and addressed to the other General Authorities, and
they act as a Court of Appeal ; but no case has been brought to the knowledge of your
Commissioners in which this power has been exercised.
As illustrations of the manner in which the control of the Board of Trade is exercised iiiustrations of
the following may be cited. In the case of Godrevy the Trinity House, anticipating control."^
the non-concurrence of the Board of Trade on the score of economy, selected a site, but
not the site they would have preferred, and it was fin illy adopted ; but not until after
several other sites had been suggested by the Board of Trade, and after a correspond-
ence extending from the 13th July 1855 to 18th November 1857- (See Vol. I. p. 13,
and Oral Evidence Qs. 69-74, 429-432, 926; and Vol. II. p. 63.)
In the case of the lighthouse at North Unst, the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses were over-ruled through the Trinity House, and a temporary light-
house was built on a situation, of which the engineer of the Scotch Board disapproved.
The men considered themselves to be in great danger when the bad weather came on,
and they are now, as appears from the correspondence, cut oif, (in the permanent light-
house) from communication with the shore whenever the weather is foggy, because their
Lordships would not sanction the laying of an electric telegraph which the Commissioners
wished to construct ; and the making of a path from the houses to the shore, to facilitate
a walk of some miles over rough ground, was refused. The keeper on shore is now
compelled to walk over hills in all weathers, and often in vain, for the signal hung out
is frequently in^'isible from fog, when the observer arrives at the point from Avhich the
lighthouse can be seen in clear weather ; and one keeper nearly lost his life in the per-
formance of this duty. The great importance of this signal being made out evert/ day is
dwelt on by Mr. Cuningham in his evidence. (See Vol I. Oral Evid., Qs. 478-481, 714-
7J6, 760-767, 777-780, 941, 942 ; and Vol. IL pp. 165, 171 ; and MS. Correspondence.)
Again, the light at Holborn Head was made the subject of a voluminous correspond-
ence lasting from 24th December 1856 to 9th Februar}^ I860. The cost of the site was
200/. The main questions in dispute — the breadth of a road, and whether the proprietor of
the land should be entitled to use it — and the result is thus described in a letter from the
proprietor : " The terms * * * are the same proposed by the Commissioners
" and agreed to by me more than two years ago." (See Vol. I. Oral Evid., Qs. 482, 724,
72,5, 735, 938, and p. 188; and Vol. IL p. 164; and MSS. Correspondence.)
The Ballast Board of Dublin, in 1854, were deprived of a steamer which the}^
purchased in 1851, in consequence of the Board of Trade not considering it sufficiently
used. The vessel was transferred to the Trinity House, and sold by order of the
Board of Trade ; the original cost was 18,500/., and the price realized about half that
sum ; and the Ballast Board forward stores to lighthouses in sailing vessels, make
their inspections in steamers borrowed from the Trinity House, and shift buoys of large
size by means of a small steamer called the " Midge," which Your Commissioners saw,
and considered to be wholly unfit for the seas of the Western Ocean. In consequence,
as it is stated, stores are delayed, so as to endanger in some instances the extinction of
lights in distant situations. The members of the Ballast Board are delayed and
impeded on their inspections, and their movements being known long before-hand,
their visits are expected and are less useful. The Buoy service is made one of
considerable danger, and it is unquestionable that the money saved is quite insufficient
to counterbalance the risk incurred, and other disadvantages. In this case the Board
of Trade, as appears from the correspondence, not only deprived the Ballast Board of the
steamboat contrary to the wishes of the Ballast Board, but entered into negotiations
with Steamboat Companies for shifting hghtvessels. (See Vol. I. Oral Evid., Qs. 144-153,
188-195, 201-214, 41.5-418, 8.56-864, and p. 19; and MS. Correspondence.)
The Commissioners for Northern Lighthouses were overruled in the selection of
the Illuminating apparatus to be used at the Butt of Lewis, (see Vol. I. Oral Evid.,
Qs. 483, 941,) and again at the Lighthouse of Ilhu Vaal, at the entrance of the Sound of
Islay, as to the height, — as to the arc to be illuminated, — the colour exhibited, — and the
purpose of the light. The decision was opposed to the opinion of the Surveying Officer
on the district, and to that of the seamen and others acquainted with the locality; and
it does not appear that it was wholly approved by the Trinity House. (See Vol. I. Oral
Evid. Qs. 434-436, 84.5-850, 920-925, and p. 23; and MS. Correspondence.)
REPORT OF COjraiSSIOXERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
The Lighthouse on the Iron Rock (Sound of Jura) remains unbuilt in consequence
of a difference of opinion as to an estimate (9,360/.) for plans which had been approved
by the Board of Trade, but which, as they maintained, must be executed, if at all, for a
considerably less sum (6,000/.) than that which the engineer employed by the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses considered necessary ; a voluminous correspondence took
place, which has ended in the complete suspension of all proceedings, to the detriment
of the service. The Board of Trade, although fully admitting the remarkable accuracy
of the estimates of the jSIessrs. Stevenson, as tested in numerous works by the ultimate
expense incurred on them, refused to allow tenders to be invited for this Lighthouse,
seemg apparently some connection which Your Commissioners have been at a loss to dis-
cover between the amount of an engineer's estimate, known only to the Authorities, and
that of the tenders which follow it, (See Vol. L Oral Evid., Qs. 467, 700 et seq., 926 et
seq. and MS. Correspondence.
When a gun was asked for as a fog signal on board the Kish lightvessel, the Board
of Trade objected to the expense on the ground that it was for the benefit of vessels
trading to the port of Dublin, and to the fact of a gun being fired, as it might possibl}^
be mistaken for that at Holyhead by vessels that were not crossing the Irish Channel.
Yet at length they consented to a large bell of peculiar construction, and afterwards
allowed the gun instead, provided it was not purchased or maintained at the expense of
the Mercantile Marine Fund, and if fired always twice in succession. (See Vol. I. Oral
Evid., Qs. 224-232, 888-905.)
And so the power of the purse appears to be construed into the right to control the
action of the Authorities in all matters, however minute, which involve the slightest
expenditure.
The Board of Trade claims to exercise their power of control to this extent under
Clauses 422 and 406 of the Merchant Shipping Act. It becomes a subject for consider-
ation, how far the control so exercised is beneficial or necessar}-, and whether the saving
in cost (if any) secured, is worth the time lost, and the danger run by sliips during these
lengthened discussions between the Authorities.
It appears to Your Majesty's Commissioners that the better and simpler course would
be to make the Lighthouse Authority which ought to be responsible for the position,
character, and everything connected with the work, responsible also for its cost.
As matters are at present, the Scotch Board and the Irish Board cannot be held
responsible, for they have two masters over them ; and as the Trinity House were prac-
tically overruled in the case of Godrevy, the real governing body has come to be the
Board of Trade.
It is therefore important to consider whether the Board of Trade, when acting in strict
accordance with the provisions of the Act, is the department of Government best consti-
tuted to form an opinion on subjects connected with coast illumination, and better able
to judge of the necessity of establishing new works than the Authorities who propose
them. For example, — Captain Bedford, the surveying officer on the west coast of
Scotland, proposed the placing of certain buoys which he considered to be of importance
for the interests of general navigation ; the Commissioners for Northern Lighthouses
approved of most of these suggestions, adopted some of them, and, on the 8th of March
I860, wrote for the statutory sanction of the Trinity House to the placing of these
buoys. On the 21st of March, the Elder Brethren "did not feel that they would be
" justified in recommending to the Board of Trade, that they (the buoys) should be placed
" at the expense of the Mercantile Marine fund." And, on the 9th of April, the Scotch
Commissioners appealed to the Board of Trade, on the ground that the reasons given by
the Elder Brethren were insufficient. Thc}^ pointed out that some of the buoys were
intended for the use of vessels navigating the Caledonian Canal, and others for those
navigating the Sound of Jura, where it has been thought advisable to erect two large
lighthouses for general purposes, and that other buoys M'cre for other localities where
beacons and lighthouses are in course of erection as part of the general scheme.
On the 20th of April, the Board of Trade sanctioned the placing of one of the proposed
buoys, but it was stated that " as regards the other buoys, my Lords, without entering
" into the question whether the}' would be useful for the local, rather than the general
" trade, are not disposed to think them necessary, and must, therefore, decline to sanction
" the expense." (See MS. Correspondence.)
Assuming that this decision is strictly within the provisions of the Act, and setting
aside the rights of the question. Your Commissioners deem it to be a matter for grave
consideration whether the constitution of the Board of Trade is such as to make that
department of the Government best able to judge of such questions. The surveying officer
on the station, who has the best opportunity of judging of the facts, and the Commissioners,
who are responsible for the work, are agreed. The Trinity House differ from both on a
financial question ; and the Board of Trade diil'er iroui all, and decide ou a question of
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. XXV
expediency. They sanction the placing of one buoy, admitting the principle for which Controlling
the Scotch Board contend, and so overrule the Trinity House ; they refuse to sanction coSered.
the rest, and so overrule the Scotch Board ; and they give as their reason, that they do
not consider those buoys necessary.
In this recent case then the principle of Government is clearly laid down, and brought
into action. The refusal is on the ground of expediency ; the question in dispute is
not settled, but the umpire decides the matter from his own point of view, and so far
as regards the Scotch and Irish Boards (if not the Trinity House itself) the principle of
this case seems to be the ruling principle of the control as at present exercised by the
Board of Trade over the Lighthouse Authorities.
If this is the principle authorized by the Merchant Shipping Act, the independent
action of the Lighthouse Authorities has ceased to exist. (See Oral Evid., Qs. 915-917.)
The governing authority has, in fact, become vested in the Board of Trade, though no
provision is made by the Act to enable that department to judge more accurately of
such matters than the Lighthouse Authorities who are controlled, and the Admiralty
surveying officers, whose local knowledge has been disregarded. If the governing power
is really vested in the Board of Trade, and if that department is so constituted as to be
competent to conduct the service, the other Authorities are superfluous. On the other
hand, if the General Authorities are necessary, and conduct their business satisfactorily,
and are to be continued, their powers should not be thus limited or thus controlled.
As matters now stand, the whole management of the lighthouse service appears to be Present system
impeded by the opposing action of three separate governing bodies ; and it does not objectionable.
clearly appear what advantage is gained to counterbalance the delay which results from
this complicated system.
3rd. Trinifii House. The next in order of the Authorities having charge of Lights, controlling
&c., is the Trinity House. " P?y^^^^ °f^^^^
By Section 39^ of the Merchant Shipping Act, that body may enter and hispecf, all
Lighthouses under the management and control of the two General Authorities next in
order ; namely, the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, and the Ballast Board,
Dublin.
By Section 405, it may control these two bodies, by refusing its sanction to new
works, or to proposed alterations in existing works, but this power is subject to an
appeal to the Board of Trade.
By Section 408, it may direct the other two to execute new works, or to modify or
remove works in existence, &c. ; but this power requires the sanction of the Board of
Trade, and seems never to have been exercised.
As to the power of inspection over the other two bodies under Section 392. The
Elder Brethren, in reply to Question 8, Circular I., Vol. II. pp. 13-19, have furnished
a return showing the special services and inspections in which they were engaged in 1857
and 1858, from which it appears —
That from May 6th to 26th, 1857, " a committee (accompanied by Captain Sulivan, of
the Board of Trade,) visited the west of Ireland" and " round Scotland," and that they were
accompanied by officers of the Scotch and Irish Boards. The names of the places visited
are given in detail, and include places on which Lighthouses have been erected, or on
which it has been proposed to erect such works ; places which have been the subject of
much correspondence, in which the views of the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses
differed from those of the Trinity House, and the Board of Trade ; for example, the Iron
Rock in the Sound of Jura; Macarthur's Head, the Black Rocks, and Rhu Vaal, in
the Sound of Islay. The lights visited were few, and the time short, and it was partly
occupied in inspecting localities in England, in coaling, &c.
On the 17th of May 1858, a Committee of the Elder Brethren visited St. Abb's
Head, accompanied by Captain Sulivan, three of the Northern Commissioners, and
Mr. Stevenson.
This power of inspecting works not in England was, therefore, not exercised to a great
extent in these two years by the Trinity House, either in Scotland or Ireland.
As to the power of control under Sections 405 and 408.
The cases in which the Scotch and Irish General Authorities have been controlled by
the Trinity House will be found in the Scotch and Irish replies to Question 17, General
Lighthouse Return ; Question 19, General Floating Light Return and General
Remarks, Circular II.; and Question 18, Buoys and Beacons, Circular V. ; and in the
evidence of Messrs. Cuningham and Stevenson, Sir James Dorabrain, and the Earl of
Meath.
As respects Scotland the correspondence is voluminous. Abstracts are given of some
portions of it in the Appendix ; seme of the cases are alluded to above ; and the replies
e3
KEPOKT OF COJIMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
ControUinp;
powers of Tri-
nity House.
System of
management.
General
Autliorities.
Trinity House.
of the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses give further abstracts, and these will
be found in Vol. II.
The action of the Trinity House throughout, as appears from that correspondence, has
b( en subordinate to the action of the Board of Trade, and views apparently originating
with the Board of Trade have been carried out, in cases where a difference of opinion
had arisen between the Lighthouse Authorities on other points.
It seems, therefore, from these Returns, that the power of inspection conferred on the
Trinity House has been sparingly exercised, and that the power of rontrnl and direction
has generally served to transfer the decision from the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses and the Ballast Board through the Trinity House to the Board of Trade.
System of Management.
The management of the Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the
coasts of the United Kingdom has been entrusted to what are termed the three General
Authorities. They are the following : —
1st. The Trinlfii House, by the Mercantile Shipping Act, under Section 389, bas the
sxiperintetidence and management of all Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and
Beacons in England, Wales, the Channel Islands, Gibraltar, and jBleligoland, except
those which are under Local Authorities.
2nd. The Commissioners of Northern Liglitliouses, subject in some matters to the
control of the Trinity House and the ultbnaie co7itrol of the Board of Trade, have in
Scotland, and in the Isle of Man, the management of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
except those which are under Local Authorities.
3rd. The Ballast Board of Dublin have similar authority, subject to similar control
and exceptions, in Ireland,
Under Section 396 of the above Act, these General Authorities may levy the same dues
as formerly.
Under 398, they may, with consent of the Queen in Council, exempt from dues, alter
the mode of collection, or substitute dues for other dues.
Under 401, they may, by their collectors, distrain for dues.
Under 402, they account, as is directed by the Board of Trade, and pay over the
money to the Paymaster-General.
Under 404, they may build, remove, or alter Lighthouses, and place, erect, remove,
or alter Buoys and Beacons, but the Scotch and Irish Boards must have the sanction of
; he Trinity House, and, in case of dispute, of the Board of Trade.
Under 415, they may prevent false Lights, under a penalty of 100/.
Under 394, with sanction of the Board of Trade they may compel Local Authorities
within their several jurisdictions to lay down new Buoys, remove or discontinue Light-
houses and Beacons, and vary the character of Lighthouses and Lights.
And they maj' prevent the construction of new Lights by these Authorities.
Under 395 they may apply to the Queen in Council for the punishment of a defaulting
Local Authority.
The powers then of these three General Authorities are twofold : — 1st, the power under
which they manage their own service ; 2nd, their control over Local Authorities.
Before considering the action of these General Authorities, it may be useful to give
a short account of the origin and history of each.
General Authorities.
1st. Tlie Trinitij House. As appears from the Report of the Select Committee on the
Foreign Trade of the Country, 1822, the germ of the Corporation existed as early as
the reign of Henry the Seventh, as an Association for Piloting Ships.
In the reign of King Henry the Eighth the Society was incorporated by Royal
Charter (May 20th, 1514), and this Charter was confirmed and altered by Edward the
Sixth, Queen Mary, Elizabeth, and James the First.
The Charter of James the First settled this constitution of the Corporation, and such
it continues.
The Charter was dissolved in 1647, but was renewed by Charles the Second on the
Restoration, and the disposal of the funds was settled partly for charitable purposes.
The Charter was surrendered to Charles the Second, and renewed by his successor in
1685 ; and the charitable uses of the funds of the Corporation were again settled. These
funds were derived from various charges, such as Pilotage, Lastage, Loadmanage,
Ballastage, &c.
The Light dues, the principal source of the revenues of the Corporation in 1822,
and the source from whicli Lights are now supported, were chiefly collected under
Patents granted by the Crown, upon the petition of persons offering to pay certain sums
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. XXvii
for the erection of Lights ; which dues the Crown authorized the Corporation to receive Amhorlties
as a compensation for the erection and maintenance of the Lights required. Trinity House.
The Corporation had also the power of erecting and maintaining Beacons and Marks
of the Sea.
The first Light under the management of the Trinity House was erected in 1680,
subsequent to the erection of several Lighthouses by private individuals ; and these
private persons, and their successors, and others, subsequently erected lights, obtained
patents, and under them levied dues on passing ships ; which, as trade increased, grew to
be large incomes.
The following was the state of affairs when the Parliamentary Committee was appointed Parliamentary
in 1S22: — ^The Trinity House and private individuals were maintaining Lights and Committees,
levying dues on passing ships, British and Foreign ; the former applying their funds
amongst other purposes to support charitable institutions, and the latter applying the
surplus of the dues levied to their own uses as their own private property.
With this disposal of the funds, the Committee of 1822 found no fault, but they
recommended the substitution of a tonnage rate for passing tolls, and the purchase
of the interests of individuais in private and leased Lights, and that all these should
be brought under one control.
In 1834, another Parliamentary Committee was appointed, which reported on the i834.
then state of affiiirs.
They dwelt strongly on the importance of the service, the impropriety of levying
dues on shipping for the benefit of individuals, and on the different constitution of' the
Boards of ]VIanagement in the United Kingdom ; and they recommended —
That all public general Lights should be placed under one Board, resident in
London, and conducted under one system of management.
That the Trinity House should have the management of all general public Li'^hts
in the kingdom ; and that their rules should be altered and extended so as to admit
Officers of the Roj'al Navj' and other scientific persons.
The Committee considered that the admission of the Hydrographer of the Admiralty,
and of other scientific persons, would give a strong impulse towards the execution of tlie
duties assigned to the Elder Brethren ; and they mentioned, though they did not recom-
mend, the Board suggested by Captain Drummoud, — namely, a Board "to consist of four
persons.
1, A Seaman (the Hydrographer to the Admiralty) ; 2, a scientific chemist; 3, a
member of the Royal Society (an optician); and 4, the President or Vice-President of
the Board of Trade, together witii secretary and proper officers.
They recommended that the Central Board, when appointed, should examine every
local Light on the coast. The}^ considered the relative advantages of the Dioptric and
Catoptric systems, and of the oxyhydrogen light, which was suggested as applicable to
Lighthouses. They held that every necessary expense should be incurred for the
maintenance of the best Lighthouses and Floating Light establishments which the state of
science could afford ; and that the Light dues should in every case be reduced to the
smallest sums requisite to maintain existing, and to construct new establishments.
The reports of these two Committees are valuable, and contain much information ; but
it seems superfluous now to dwell on such of the evils as have been remedied ; to refer
further to private Lighthouses, which no longer exist, and to the levy of light dues for,
amongst other purposes, the support of " poor mariners," a charity which is gradually being
abolished. But as the portion of the Merchant Shipping Act, which relates to Light-
houses, appears to be the result of the 3rd Pariiamentary Committee appointed in 1845
to consider the Lighthouse question, it is necessary to notice that report also.
It refers to that state of the law which existed in 1836, but which was subsequently 1545.
altered in 1854 by the Merchant Shipping Act.
To the financial affairs of the Trinity House, and to their vested rights, wliich are
also provided for in the same Act.
It states that the Lights in the United Kingdom were then in an efl5cient state.
That complaints were made of the amount of dues, not of the efficiency of the
lights. -^
It recommends that there should be one central authority, namely, the Trinity House,
of which body one third should be nominated by the Crown.
That Lighthouses should be maintained at public expense.
That the Trinity House should be repaid the sums spent by them in the purchase of
private Lights, and failing the adoption of that recommendation the Committee point to
the substitution of a Tonnage rate for passinsj tolls.
e 4
KEPORT OF C05DIISSI0NKRS OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Trinity Ilousr.
Northern Com-
missioners.
Ballast Board.
Existing Light-
house govern-
ment.
Foreign
countries.
The Tr'inihi House is therefore a very ancient Corporation which has gro^vn up and
has to a certain extent altered with the times, but which is in the main the same corpo-
rate body which existed in the time of James the First, if not in the reign of Henry tlie
Seventh.
Its present constitution is explained in detail in the replies to Circular I. It consists
of the IMaster, Deputy-Master, Elder and Younger Brethren. The Elder Brethren are
divided into honorary members and acting members. The master and the honorary
members receive no remuneration. The acting members are retired Masters of the
^Merchant Service, except three, who are naval officers. They are recruited from the
Younger Brethren, the majority of whom are masters and mates in the Merchant Sea
Service, a few are naval officers, and the Corporation is a self-electing body.
His Royal Highness the Prince Consort is the present Master.
2nd. The Commissioners for NortJiern Lighthouses were incorporated by the 38th
Geo, 3. c. 58., and their present constitution is given in their replies to Circular I.
They consist of two law officers of the Crown, the sheriffs of certain maritime counties,
the provosts of certain Iloyal burghs, and the provost of Greenock, and were specially
established in 17S6, by Act of Parliament, for the management exclusively of lights, &c.
in that country.
The Commissioners arc unpaid, and hold their position ex-officio.
The Committees which recommended the constitution of a single Central Lighthouse
Board necessarily implied the abolition of this separate jurisdiction, but no complaint
was made as to its efficiency.
3rd. The present constitution of The Ballast Board of Dub/in is given in detail in their
replies to Circular I.
It consists of members of the Port of Dublin Corporation, who at present are mainly
connected with the commerce of the Irish capital; but includes a retired naval officer, who
previously commanded the Coast Guard in Ireland.
The Corporation acts under the 23rd Geo. 3. c. 19.; and the Lights were formerly
under the superintendence of various other bodies, such as the Barrack Board and the
Commissioners of Customs.
The Government of public general Lights in the United Kingdom is therefore
entrusted to four bodies differently constituted.
1st. The Board of Trade, a department of the Government, whose president changes
with the Government, whose members are not selected for their knowledge of the science
of Lighthouse Illumination, and who have not necessarily an}' officers specially instructed
in that subject.
2nd. The Trinity House, an ancient corporation, with a variety of duties, many
of which are not connected with lights, &c., whose acting members are retired commanders
in the IMerchant Service, and naval officers ; who have a paid engineer, but who
have no paid officer attached to their body specially instructed in science, though they
are allowed to consult with scientific men, and do consult Professor Faraday from
time to time.
3rd. The Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, a body consisting chiefly of
gentlemen of the legal profession, who have no paid officer for the scientific department.
4th. The Ballast Board, a body whose acting members are m.erchants, bank directors
and governors, magistrates, railway directors, &:€., including a retired naval officer.
In short, the government of Lighthouses in the United Kingdom, their management
and construction, are all confided to bodies of gentlemen of various employments, none
of which necessarily afford them an opportunity of acquiring a knowledge of those
branches of science which bear upon Lighthouse Illumination.
It is both interesting and instructive to compare the constitution of these Authorities
with that of the Lighthouse Boards in other countries. (See Circular XL, Q. 1., in Vol. II.)
In France, the Lighthouse Service is under the iVIinistry of Public Works, and
a special Commission called " Commission des Phares,"' which body consists of
naval officers, marine engineers, hydrographers, members of scientific bodies, and
other gentlemen, distinguished for their scientific attainments, in various professions,
all of which have to do with branches of science connected with coast illumination.
The genera! conduct of the service is under an officer called Directeur General des
Phares, who is an engineer, and has other engineers under him ; and in every district
on the coast there are resident engineers employed about government works, and,
amongst others, in the superintendence and construction and management of Lighthouses.
The Commission have special workshops in Paris for testing and setting up illuminating
apparatus, and they give (hrections to the manufacturers for every part of the Lighthouse
apparatus, including the calculation of angles for prisms and curves for lenses, and
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. Xxix
similar important matters, for which no provision is made in the English system of France.
government.
In the United States of America the lights are mider one Central Board, constituted America.
in 1852, and composed of a member of the Government, engineer officers, and officers
of the army and navy, and civilians of high scientific attainments.
In Sweden the Lights are under the Admiralty, and managed by a director and officers Sweden.
who have military rank, and engineers ; and the coasts are divided into districts and
sub-districts allotted to these officers.
In Norway, the service is under the Royal Marine Department, with a director and Norway.
assistants.
In Turkey, it is under the Admiralty ; but the department was at a loss to furnish Turkey.
information.
In Hanover, the service is under the Director General of Waterworks. The Buoys Hanover.
are placed by pilots ; and the Lights and Buoys are inspected by Inspectors of Water-
works.
In Hamburg, they are under the Connnittee for Harbours and Navigation, under the Hamburg.
direction of the Commander and Inspector of Pilots.
In Spain, the system of administration is the same as in France. The Lio-hts, &c., are Spain.
under the Department of Public Works, and under a permanent Commissioifcomposed of
cngmeers of superior rank of the Corps of Roads, &c., and naval officers ; and the captains
of ports are instructed to suggest improvements and report on the Lights.
In Denmark, the service is under the Ministrv of Marine, entrusted to one Lio-ht Denmark,
engineer and two Buoy inspectors, furnished with instructions relative to their respective
official duties.
In Russia the superintendence is dependent from the Hydrographical Department. Kussia.
In Holland the management of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons rests with the Minister Holland,
for the Marine, under whom are an Inspector General and seven Inspectors.
In Belgium the construction of lighthouses is under the Minister of Public Works, but Belgium.
when built they are handed over to the general direction of the Navy, which is under
the Minister for Foreign Affairs. They, with the floating lights and buoys, are under
the superintendence of the Inspectors of Pilotage.
In Austria the superintendence of all the Lighthouses, Buoys, and Beacons belono-s Austria.
to the Imperial Koyal Admiralty. The Deputies of the Exchange at Triest attend to
Lighthouses,— their erection, management, collection of dues, &c. The inferiors of the
Admiralty attend to the superintendence of Buoys and Beacons.
The principle then in all foreign countries seems to be, that Lighthouse illumination. Principle of
being highly important, and requiring special knowledge of certain subjects should be £0^''™"^°*
entrusted to persons acquainted with those subjects, and that the government should "''™'^'
be centralized.
Whilst the practice in Great Britain seems to have been to entrust Lighthouse illumi- Practice in
nation to persons whose pursuits did not indicate any previous knowledge of the subject Great Britain
and the fact that for 404 Lighthouses, and numerous Buoys and Beacons, there are at least
1/4 different Authorities under as many Acts of Parliament, shows that the principle of
local and mdependent self-government has at all events not been lost sight of. (Vol, II.
p. 280.) The Elder Brethren of the l^rinity House, however, having been mariners, may be
supposed to have had much experience of the practical wants of sailors, and to be
peculiarly well versed m all that relates to lightships; while the Commissioners of
Northern Lights, being gentlemen of the legal profession, whose position is a guarantee for
their intelligence, may be supposed able to form a good opinion of the character and
quahhcations of candidates for the posts of secretary and engineer, and to exercise a wise
discretion in selecting them, and to collect and form a correct judgment on evidence
and matters of opinion relative to matters under their charge ; and the Ballast Board,
being constituted of gentlemen engaged in laroe commercial transactions, may be
supposed to be well acquainted with general business, and fairly competent to form a
correct opinion on such questions as the purchase of sites, and the tenders for the erection
of newworks, or the materials required for the maintenance of the service. (Vol. 11. Circ. I.)
The Lighthouse Boards of foreign countries generally include engineers, hydroo-raphers
and professionally scientific men. -j o r
The General Authorities in the United Kingdom have employed engineers, and that
these have been able men is testified by the works which they have erected. The Eno-ineer
of the Commissioners for Northern Lighthouses used to attend the Board meetings" until
January 1855, when, by the requirement of the Board of Trade, he ceased to do so, to
the great regret of the Scotch Commissioners, who were thereby, as they stated, deprived
of the presence of the only scientific member of their Board. (See Vol. I. p. 186, and Oral
Evid. Qs., 675 et seq., 958, 959.)
XSX REPORT OF COJDIISSIOXERS ON LIGHTS, BCOTS, AXD BEACONS.
The Hydrographic Department of the Admiralty has frequently lent its services to the
General Lighthouse Authorities, but they, of course, have had no claim upon that
Department.
The Trinity House has consulted Professor Faraday as its scientific adviser since 1836,
but it appears that he only gives his opinion or advice on such subjects as are submitted
to him. The Northern Commissioners have had the great advantage of having associated
with them the family of the Stevcnsons, who have given much attention to those depart-
ments of science which relate to Lighthouse illumination.
That the scientific element was very^ deficient in the system of Lighthouse management
in 1834 was evident to the Parliamentary Committee which sat in that year.
That the scientific element continues to be deficient has been evident to your Commis-
sioners from an early period of their inquiry. Many of the preceding observations have
indicated this ; but in addition they would draw attention to the following facts : —
1st. The present arrangements often betray an evident want of scientific thought. No
greater proof of this can be given than what is contained in the paper on the \'\'hitbj
Lights, ])rintcd in Vol. L p. 63, together with the admirable reports of the Astronomer
Roval, Professor Farada}^ i\Ir. J. Chance, and Messrs. Stevenson, in Vol. L pp. 77-102.
'id. The Trinity House, by having secured the services of ]\Ir. Faraday, are fortunately
prevented from ever finally committing themselves to the adoption of any impracticable
scheme ; but by their not having constantly present at their Board any scientific person,
the carrving out of any iu\'ontion may be seriousl}' embarrassed, and some invaluable
inventions may not be appreciated and thereby lost. ( See the evidence of Mr. Cutler and
Mr. Holmes, in regard to the Electric light, Vol. L p. 167-)
3d. There are a great number of questions of a scientific character, having reference to
lighting or buoying the coasts, which are as yet unsolved, and only require the attentive
consideration of men of science accustomed to experimental investigation, to educe such
results as will doubtless increase the etficiency of the systems now in use, and may
lead to some extensive improvements. To some of these questions we have incidentally
paid attention ; and one of our number has drawn out a list of seventy-six separate
investigations, which might be undertaken with a likelihood of profitable results. It is
printed in Vol. L p. 71-
4th. Tliere is a large amount of scientific talent in the country which might easily be
turned in the direction of the suggested inquiries. In corroboration of this opinion Your
Commissioners would draw attention to the great mass of valuable information aud
suggestion which has been elicited from those scientific men — some of them of the
greatest eminence — who have replied to Circular IX. These replies (Vol. II. pp. .589-
630) are commended to the most careful consideration of whatever autliority may in
future have the charge of the lighting and buoyage of our coasts.
5th. As a test of the degree of scientific knowledge exhibited by the different Light-
house Authorities, Your Commissioners asked for copies of the plans, specifications, Ike,
actually submitted to the manufacturers in ordering the last two sets of lenticular
apparatus of large size or peculiar form The resulting correspondence is given in Vol. I.
p. 210, with an account of the different practice of the four principal Lighthouse Authorities,
viz., the Board of Trade, the English, Scotch, and Irish Boards. From this it appears
that in Ireland forms of tender are issued, " setting ibrth the arc intended to be illumi-
" nated, the number of panels and zones required, and that the apparatus shall be of the
" best quality, and fitted together correctly ;" in England, printed forms and lithographed
drawings of small size are furnished to the contractors ; while in Scotland, large
Avorking drawings and minute directions are given by the engineers employed by the
governing authority, for the execution of apparatus specially designed by them for special
localities.
In the case of the English and Irish Boards, the governing body does not originate the
design. In Scotland, a design is furnished by the governing body, and the manufacturer
has only to execute the oi'der given.
The latter arrangement seems calculated to produce an advance in science ; the former
is simply an order for a well-known instrument, accompanied, in England, b^- drawings,
which closely resemble those published by the manufacturers in their trade lists, and which
arc almost, if not quite, identical with the drawings in the trade lists of Mr. Wilkins, a
gentleman who does not himself manufacture the glass of dioptric apparatus.
Here, then, seems to be a defect in the system of management. None of the Light-
house Authorities have by their constitution any special knowledge of these branches
of science which relate to the construction of the Lighthouse apparatus which thty
require. \MKn they employ men who have made these particular branches of
knowledge their study, the result is good. The Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses have iu this respect shown themselves considerably ia advance of the Elder
element
wanting.
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Brethren of the Trinity House, by employing an engineer who has studied Lighthouse Scientife
illumination, and claims to have invented or introduced man}' improvements into optical
apparatus, to prepare specifications for scientific work. The result of the opposite course
adopted by the Trinity House is shown in the defects observed at Godrevy, the Start,
the North and South Foreland, Whitby, &c.
Efficiency and Economy of Government.
The inquiry, " Whether the present system of management and control under which System of
" the Lighthouses, Floating Lio-hts, Buovs, and Beacons on the coasts of the United •"^n^sement
^ ' 1 1 • '• 1 T 1 ■ • ■^^^ cuntrol m
" Kingdom are constructed and mamtamed, accordmg to the provisions of the reiardto
" ' Merchant Shipping Act, 1854,' is well adapted for securing the most efficient lighting <''fi"<=°<^y-
" and buoying of the coasts," has been to a certain extent practically answered in
preceding sections of this Report. The different Authorities, whether general or local,
differ widely in their plans of proceeding; and there is no power given in the Act over
the internal arrangements of these separate bodies, much less is there any means of
insuring uniformity of system. Thus each authority carries on its work in its own way,
with a greater or smaller regard to uniformity of action, throughout its own jurisdiction,
but with little, if any, regard to the system adopted in other parts of the United
Kingdom.
In France, the whole is arranged systematically. Lights are placed on a system, — that
their lights should cross. They are inspected on system, — the size of the flame ; the
quantity of oil to be consumed in an hour, to produce a good light ; the minutest
detail is provided for and calculated to a nicety, and the whole sj-stem hangs together,
and is under one man. It is a system eminently calculated to produce uniformity and
a good result, and it has produced excellent results in a comparatively short time.
It is the Scotch Board that most nearly resembles the French Commission des Phares
in its way of managing Lights, Buoys, and Beacons. There is this in common, —
They have, in the localities where the lights are situated, men of repute and of
capacity ; in France the Ingenicurs des Ponts et Chaussees alwaj^s resident, and in
Scotland the SheriflPs of the maritime counties occasionally present ; and the members of
the two Commissions are cx-officio intelligent men, and the actual working of the
service is carried on by a small staff, and by men Avhose business it is, and has long
been, to deal with Lighthouses, and all concerning them, and whose ideas, when carried
out, are carried out to the full extent, and in all Lighthouses alike.
Generally, to inspect the minor arrangements of one Lighthouse in Scotland is equiva- Uniformity
lent to having seen them all, for the only variet}^ seems to be in the Illuminating appa- **"''^'^-
ratus, which in very many instances is specially designed for the locality, and has to be
separitely examined before it can be full}' understood ; while in England the uniformity
is rather to be found in the Illuminating apparatus than the minor details of the service,
which vary in different Lighthouses. In Ireland not only is there a great want of
uniformity as to the minor details, but they seem to be very much overlooked and
neglected, while the apparatus is about equal to that of the Trinity House. (See Cruize
of"" Vivid," &c., Vol. I.
There are some interesting points of comparison between the plans adopted by the
different Boards which have not hitherto been adverted to, and which bear upon the
efficienci/ of the service.
The Lighthouses under the management of the Trinity House, almost without excep-
tion, were found to be remarkable for their order and cleanliness. The Scotch Lighthouses
arc fully equal to the English in these particulars. The Irish were found to be inferior.
Their keepers do not wear uniforms.* In their houses, in the light rooms, and in other
places where discipline, order, and cleanliness should prevail, the Irish Lights do not
rank so high, though many of them were as well kept in all respects as any visited by
Your Commissioners.
In all the English and Scotch Lighthouses the men are comfortably lodged. They are Details of
provided with books, which is a vast boon to men who pass so much of their time in compareU™'
solitude ; and in Scotland this is felt to be so important that certain amusing periodicals
are taken in by the Board for the use of the men. In Ireland the supply of books is
small, and they are rarely changed. In France there are none. Periodical religious
services are strictl}- enjoined in the English and Scotch Lighthouses and Floating Lights.
In Ireland, owing chiefly to the differences in religious creed commonly existing in that
country, this important point is not so easil}' arranged, and there are no services.
In England and Scotland medicine chests are provided in every Lighthouse and Light-
ship. In Ireland, as in France, there are none.
* This has very lately been allowed,
f 2'
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
. In English and Scotch rock stations, much attention seems to have been paid to securing
a proper supply of good water. In some of the Irish rock stations it was found to be
otherwise, and filters are sometimes greatly wanted.
The Scotch Lighthouses are supplied with clocks and sun dials in good working order.
The English Lighthouses are also supplied with clocks, but only occasionally with sun
dials. The Irish Lighthouses are occasionally supplied with dials, sometimes with clocks.
In many instances the clocks were not going; in one, the keeper was dependent for his
time on the punctuality of a railway train, which in clear weather was seen to pass on
the neighbouring coast.
The English and Scotch lyighthouscs have meteorological instruments, but the Irish
are ill supplied with such instruments, and generally have none at all.
All the English Lighthouses have external lightning conductors. There are 1 1 of
the Scotch which are not so provided. The Irish, with the exception of 6, arc protected
by the iron hand-rail from lantern to base, which forms a conductor.
In Scotland, as in France, a drawing of the flame as it ought to be when at its best is
framed and glazed, and hangs in every light-room ; this is not to be found in England or
Ireland.
In Scotland alone, a table of the time for lighting and extinguishing is hung up in the
li_ght-rooin. Tlicse times differ for every latitude, and are carefully calculated for each
Lighthouse in Scotland, and the result is, as before stated, a considerable economy.
In Scotland whistles arc placed in every lantern, which communicate with the rooms
below by tubes, in order to summon assistance, if required, and to avoid the necessity of
the keeper in charge leaving his post until relieved. There are no communicating whistles
in England or Ireland or in France.
The Scotch Lights are inspected at least once a year by the Secretary or by the Super-
intendent of Lightkecpers, or by the foreman of Lighthouse repairs, officers that do not
exist in the Trinity House or Ballast Board (See Oral Evid., Qs. 790-800) ; the English
Lights are frequently inspected by a deputation of the Elder Brethren ; but man}' of the
Irish Lights on isolated rocks are left unvisitcd for two or three years on account of the
difficulty of reaching them in bad weather in the " Argus," an inferior vessel belonging to the
Trinity House, which is lent at considerable inconvenience for the occasion. The " Midge,"
the onl}' vessel belonging to the Irish Board, is quite unsuitcd for the purpose of inspection.
In Scotland the keepers go through a regular course of instruction and tr.iining as
extra keepers at Lighthouse stations where dioptric and catoptric apparatus exist, and
have to pass an examination before they are entrusted Avith the care of a light. In
England a preliminary course of instruction is gone through at the Trinity Board's
establishment at Blackwall ; and in Ireland there is no such system of instruction, certain
questions only being put to the candidate on his presenting himself. (See Vol. II. pp. 3.5,
1.59, 224.) in Spain a Practical School for lightkecpers is referred to in the Spanish
Report of 1858; and the school includes instructions in all that concerns the Lighthouse
service, practically and theoreticallv in all the duties that lightkecpers may be called upon
to perform. In France the keepers informed Your Commissioners that they had been
carefully instructed in all that pertains to the machinery of the lamp, and that they had
been required to take it to pieces, and set it up again, before they were entrusted with
the care of a light. They showed their manner of levelling the burner and adjusting the
lamp in the apparatus.
All these points influence the efficiency of the Lights, and there can be no doubt that
of all the British Ivighthouscs visited by Your Connnissioners the Scotch are in the best
state of general efficiency, the English next, and the Irish third; and the Local Autho-
rities, with certain exceptions, range far below the General Authorities.
As regards Floating Lights the Irish excel in some particulars, such as size and form
of vessel ; the Trinity House Lightvessels are, in these I'cspects, inferior to them. From
the nature of the English coasts they are more numerous, and they, as well as the
Irish Light\-esscls, are models of order, of cleanliness, and of well found ships. l"he
Northern Commissioners have no Floating Light.
As regards the number of buoys there is no comparison. The Trinity House, as in
the case of Floating Lights, have by far the greatest number to meet the requirements
of the coast, viz., 3.56 in position, whilst the Northern Connnissioners have 92, and the
Ballast Board only 53. The buoys under the Trinity House are generally efficient
and well maintained, and in many instances excellent, but hitherto they have been
ari'anged on no general system. Those under the Ballast Board are also good in quality,
and generally well managed, and they are arranged according to a system, and the colours
used are black and red. Those under the Northern CoHunissioners are red and black,
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AXD BEACONS. xxxiii
and also arranged on a system, [which is the same as that in France ; but they are
inferior to the English and Irish in size and quality.
Were there a central Lighthouse Board for the whole kingdom, with resident represen-
tatives for Scotland and Ireland, it would naturally be its duty to carry out along the
whole of the British coasts those plans of any of the existing Authorities, which had
proved most elBcient.
The inquiry whether " the present sj^stem of management and control under which the System of
Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys and Beacons of the United Kingdom are constructed "nd"contror'
and maintained according to the provision of the 'Merchant Shipping Act, 1854,' is with regard to
well adapted for securing" its end, " with a due regard to economy," divides itself into «'=°°°""y-
two parts. There is the expense of management incurred by the ditfercnt Authorities,
and there are the expenses arising from the complicated system of control.
1st. It is very difficult to compare ihe expense of vianagement by the three General Expense of
Lighthouse Authorities, partly on account of the different manner in which the respective "'"^''8'^""° •
Boards conduct their business, and partly on account of the different character of their
respective works. In the subjoined table* the amount spent on management is simply
compared with the amount spent on constructing or maintaining the whole works under
their charg-e : —
General Authority.
Trinity House
I.
Total E,xpenditure
of each Board, in-
cluding the Ex- ,
penses shown in the
following Columns.
Also the Expense
of maintaining
Lighthouses. Float-
ing Lights, Buoys,
Beacons. &c.. and
Superannuation
Allowances to
retired Officers.
Salaries of the
Home Establish-
ment, Office
Expenses, I^aw
Charges, Travel-
ling Expenses,
Salaries and Wages
at the District
Establishments,
&c. &c. &c.
£ S. d.
172,285 0 6
Ratio
to the
total
Expen-
diture.
Salaries and other
Expenses con-
nected with the
three (Central
Offices.
Ratio
to the
total
Expen-
diture.
£ s. d.
32,073 13 0
Commissioners of "| i
Northern Light- \\ 59,746 15 3 4,476 13 1
houses - - J I
Per
cent.
18-6
Expense of
maintaining Steam
and Sailing
Vessels.
Ballast Board
46,658 2 3
3,945 4 10
7-4
8'4
£
s.
d.
Per
cent.
18,482
5
1
10-7
3,664
13
3
6-0
3,164
7
3
6-7
Ratio
to the
total
Expen-
diture.
£ s. d. I Per
cent.
18,825 10 5 lO-Q
11-0
1-6
6,596 18 0
754 17 9
If the items included in Col. II. be assumed as the cost of management, the Trinit}^
House appears by Col. III. to be more than twice as costly relatively in this respect as
the Ballast Board, which itself is somewhat more costly than the Northern Commissioners.
If the Central Office alone is considered, as in Col. IV., the Scotch and Irish Boards
maintain about the same relative position, vrhile the English, though still much higher
than cither, does not present so great a contrast. But the expense of maintaining
steamers and sailing vessels is not included in either of the preceding columns : it is
placed alone in Col. VI. ; and fi'om that it appears that whereas the Scotch and English
Authorities spent about 1 1 per cent, of their total expenditure on these vessels, the Irish
spend only 1-6 per cent. It must, however, be borne in mind that the " Argus " steamer
has been lent to the Irish by the English Board ; and if the whole expense of this vessel
were transferred to the Irish account (Col. VI.), it would reduce the English ratio to
9*6 per cent, and raise the Irish to 6*5 per cent , leaving the Scotch decidedly the most
expensive authority in this respect, though in other items it is the most economical.
* In drawing up this table Your Majesty's Commissioners consulted a gentleman who is engaged by various
departments of the Government in preparing financial statements. As in our instructions no reference is
made to the source of the funds whence lights, buoys, and beacons are sustained, we have not alluded above,
either to the total income from the lights under each General Authority, or to the income received by dues for
eacii individual light. Information, however, on these subjects has been jjrepared for Your Commissioners
with great labour and at considerable expense, and the results will be found iu the yummary in Vol.1, p. 120,
and Plate 4.
f3
REPORT OF COJIMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BE.iCONS.
In the following table an attempt is made to compare the amount expended in
management, and in the general maintenance of steam and sailing acsscIs (cols. n. and vi.
of preceding table), with the work done : —
Expense of
system of con-
trol.
Supervision or
control of
T^cal Au-
thorities.
Examples of
management.
Sites
Gallons
Spots
Buoyed.
Cost of
Cost of
General Aiilhoritv.
Illumi-
of
JIaintcnance and
Management
nated
Oil burnt.
Repair.
and Vessels.
f s. d.
£ s. d.
Trinity House
115
45,031
356
70.686 10 3
50,899 3 5
Commissioners of Xortliern Light-
46
25,884
92
17.618 4 2
11,073 11 1
houses.
Ballast Board
73
33,942
53
31,591 5 2
4,700 2 7
It will be seen that the sites illuminated by the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses, and the Ballast Board, amount together to 119, thus just exceeding those illu-
minated by the Trinity House, and that the amount of oil consumed (a measure of the
light produced) is considerably more ; but that, on the other hand, the spots buoved
in Scotland and Ireland together amount to only 14-5, which is 211 short of the number
buoyed by the Trinity House. The cost of maintenance and repair of the whole is
considerably more by the English than by the other two Boards together, but when it is
remembered that the Trinity House maintains so many floating lights this will not appear
surprising. This fact, however, and the additional 211 buoys seem not competent to
explain the 35,125/. ^s. 9d-, which the Trinity House spends in management over and
above what is spent by the other two Boards together.
A very large portion of the expense incurred by the Trinity House is for district
tenders and superintendents. It amounted in 1858 to 19,U12/. 4s. ScL This sum might
be mostly, if not entirely, saved by the employment of the staff of the Coast Guard, and
the steam gunboats and saiHng tenders of that force — a force which is likely to become a
permanent institution of the countiy.
2nd. The present complicated s\stem of government, and reference to superior Boards,
involves, of course, a certain expenditure in clerical assistance, &:c., but this Avould not be
Avorth considering if the present s^ystem really conduces to true economy in the admini-
stration of the service. The Board of Trade has steadily kept economy rather than
progress in view, but the saving they have thus effected has been represented as
sometimes a false economy, and it has unquestionably led to much unsatisfactory cor-
respondence, and in some instances to prejudicial delay. Neither has the control of the
superior over the inferior Boards been always attended with a saving. Thus in the case
of the WhalscN^ Skerries (Shetland), the Northern Commissioners were directed by the
Trinity House and the Board of Trade to build the light on the outer rock instead of
the site TOO yards within it, as they proposed. This entailed an additional expense
of 10,000/. in construction, and involves an additional annual expenditure for maintenance.
Yet the Northern Commissioners are still of opinion that the original site proposed by
them was the preferable one for a large guiding light, such as that at the Whalscy
Skerries was merely intended by them to be. ( See Vol. I. Oral Evidence, Qs. 477. 713-
716, 885, and MS. Correspondence.)
LOCAL AUTHORITIES.
It has already been shown that the Lights, Buoys, and Beacons under the jurisdiction
of Local Authorities are, as a rule, and with some praiseworthy exceptions, inferior to
those under the jurisdiction of the General .Authorities. This will be evident from an
inspection of the Returns furnished by the Local Authorities themselves, and printed in
Vol. II., and of the personal observations of Your Commissioners on them, in Vols. I.
and II. The following cases are some of those taken respectively from England, the
Channel Islands, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland.
The harbour lights at Dover, Folkestone, and Newhaven, on the English side of the
Clianncl, present a singular variety of faults, comprising among tliem nearly all those
which can be committed in Lighthouse arrangements. Thus at each of these three much
frequented ports there is a very inefhcicnt ilhimination, while the travellers leaving them
and crossing the Channel to Calais, Boulogne, or Dieppe, come at once to small but
brilliant harbour lights, wliich are all dioptric, and in the construction and management
of which there arc displayed all the achievements of the science of illumination which
have yet been imported into the French national system — a contrast by no means
creditable to our country. (See Vol. I. pp. 49, 58, 59; Vol. II. p. 305; and the
reference to the Harbour Light at La Rochelle in Vol. T. p. 38.)
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. XSXV
The Harbour Commissioners at Jersey derive a very large revenue from the shipping Examples of
that enter the port of St. Heliers, They fully recognize the liability of this revenue to '"'^'5'''"^° •
light and buoy the approaches to the harbour properly. 'I'his is very inefficiently done,
especially as regards the buoyage. The owners of the shipping are very discontented.
The Harbour (Commissioners, after extensive correspondence, have failed to give some
important information required ; but the following fact has been elicited by one of our
number, who was deputed to visit the island for the special purpose, namely, that a large
sum, 15,000/., the accumulation of harbour dues for some years past, had been appro-
priated to island purposes, which had no connection with the interests of the shipping. (See
Vol. H. p. 3-21.)
Numerous wrecks took place in the neighbourhood of Aberystwith on the night of
25th October 1859. whereby many lives were lost; and it appears that the losses were
attributable to the harbour master not seeing that the pier and guide lights were put up,
but going to bed instead. (See Vol. H. p. 285.)
The contrast between the works of the Northern Coaimissioners and those of Local
Authorities in the same country, is well illustrated at Aberdeen and Peterhead. In the
neighbourhood of each of these towns is one of the finest coast lights in existence; but
at each the harbour lights are ill kept, though well provided with the essentials for effi-
cient ilkunination. In neither case does the vicinity of a properly appointed lighthouse
appear to have induced the Local Authorities to improve their own works. Nor has it
incited the keepers to see how their business could be better carried out, although at
Peterhead the keeper was anxious to do his duty, and asked the chairman of Your
Commission to him give a lesson in cleaning reflectors! (See Vol. I. pp. 27, 66; and
Vol. II. pp. 3/2, 39L)
At Boddam Harboiu" in Aberdeenshire, on the contrary, there are lights of small
pretensions, merely extra-sized street lamps, glazed red, with reflectors behind the gas
flames, l)ut they are very efficient, because under the charge of an intelligent man, who
is an " occasional keeper " at the adjoining Buchaii Ness Lighthouse under the Com-
missioner of Northern Lights. (See Vol. I. p. 59.)
Numerous buoys marked the dangers of the Shannon some few years since ; they
have gradually been washed away and never replaced. The Local Government now
responsible for properly marking the dangers are the Harbour Commissioners at
Limerick, to whom this charge was transferred from a previous Board. It was in the
time of the previous Board that the buoys were washed away. The revenues are
considerable, about 7,000/. a year, but are entirely mortgaged to the Board of Works
at Dublin as interest on a debt of over 200,000/., a large portion of which, 80,000/., as
was stated, was expended on building a bridge across the river at Limerick, and an
almost useless lock, which former conferred not the slightest benefit on the shipping, whose
owners are charged with defraying the interest of the money expended on it. tSums are
doled out to the Harbour Commissioners by the Board of Works for any repairs that are
absolutely necessary ; but these only go to increase the debt, of which about 25,000/.
consists of accumulated unpaid interest. There appears, therefore, to be but little prospect
of the urgent necessities of the shipping that frequent the port being properly supplied,
unless the whole question is made the subject of a special inquiry. (See Vol. II. p. 410.)
At Sligo, the wreck of a yacht, the " Fancy, " belonging to the Marquis of
Drogheda, may serve as an instance of great neglect on the part of a Local Authority,
either to replace and maintain in its position a buoy that had been washed away, and yet
appeared on the charts, or to give such information of their intention not to replace
it, as might serve as a sufficient warning to mariners that the buoy was out of position.
The buoy in question had been washed away for more than a year, and had not been replaced,
but it still appeared on the latest Admiralty charts; and we were unable to find any trace
of any communication having been made by the Harbour Commissioners at Sligo to any
Authority accustomed to disseminate information on such subjects. Hence the yacht was
lost, and the owner is unable to obtain any redress. (See Vol. II. 416 ; and Vol. I. p. 136.)
Liverpool is the largest of the Local Authorities, and has 7 Lighthouses, 3 Floating Largest Local
Lights in position, 65 Buoys in position, and 10 Beacons. The numerous and critical Authority-
channels leading to the Mersey are marked by these Lightvessels, and are admirably
buoyed, the buoys being generally of a superior description, and effectively maintained.
The same, however, can scarcely be said of the Lights on shore. ( See Vol. II. pp. 326-
340 ; and Vol. I. p. 61.)
From Aberdeen and many other ports it was impossible to obtain returns, though
repeated application was made, but such as have been furnished show that almost every
Authority has some peculiarity in its constitution or management, and that the
management of Local Lights is as various as the constitution of the Authorities.
f 4
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Wojitofwii-
formity.
Present power
of super\'ision
and control.
Uniform sijs.
tern of Tiik
li,,hu nml
signals Tccum-
vunded.
Cfuinqc in
li,jhts, ^-r. to
be more fully
notifted.
Further sujicr'
vision und con-
trol of Local
Authorities
recommended.
What has been said of the Superior Authorities is generally applicable to Local
Authorities also. Those who manage Lights are not appointed to their offices because
they have had any previous knowledge of the subject, and those whom they employ may
or may not have the required knowledge. The keeper's salary varies from 200/.
per annum with house accommodation, to '/s. 6d. per week without a house, or lower
when their whole time is not required. The Lights are almost universally in worse
condition and worse kept than those under the larger Authorities, and the}- are inferior
to French Lights of the same class, which are under the same management as the great
Sea Lights, and which are fully equal to them in proportion to their requirements.
As every Local Authorit}- is independent of all the others, each acts on its own plan,
and the result is great inequality and confusion. There is no uniformity in Tide Lights.
A red light means danger at one place, and safet}- at another ; the same number of
flags or balls may mean two different things at neighbouring ports. The system of
buovage varies everywhere. Red is left on the one hand in sailing into Hull ; on the
other, in sailing into Liverpool, and the mariner who is familiar with the Liverpool
sj-stem, meets one which is exactly the reverse in entering the port of Dublin. The
Admiraltv have adopted at Berehaven a system depending on the points of the compass ;
at Plymouth, one founded on the knowledge a man has of the distinction between his
right and left hand in entering the port. In short, there is no uniformitj^ in the system
adopted for Loc il Lights, Buoys, or Beacons, and they are, generally speaking, inferior
in quality. (See Vol. IL p. 280.)
Under Section 394 of the Merchant Shipping Act, the General Lighthouse Autho-
rities, with sanction of the Board of Trade may compel Local Authorities within their
several jurisdictions, — to lay down new Buoys ; remove or discontinue lighthouses
or Beacons ; and vaiy the character of Lighthouses or the mode of exhibiting Lights.
And they may prevent the construction or alteration of Lights by these Authorities.
Under 395, thcv may apply to the Queen in Council for the transference of the
powers of a defaulting Local Authority.
Under Section 413, a Local Authority may surrender or sell any Lighthouse, Buoy, or
Beacon, to the General Authority in the same country, to whom the dues become in
i'uture payable.
From the evidence of the General I^ighthouse Authorities, it appears that these
powers have been very sparingly employed, nor do they appear to consider that they
have any jurisdiction in regard to the internal arrangements of Local Lights, or to the
maintenance of Local Buoys and Beacons. It should be observed also, that the Act
makes no provision for the alteration of the position, colour, or character of Buoys ;
hence there is no power to enforce a uniform system, however desirable such a system
might be considered. (See the remarks of the Ucputv Master of the Trinitv House,
Vol. L p. 165.)
Your Commissioners think it very desirable that a uniform system of Tide lights and
signals should be established, instances having been reported to us in which valuable
ships have been lost from a mistake in their meaning, or the want of them. (Vol. II. p.691-)
Your Commissioners wish to lay some stress upon the necessity that exists for a more
extensive and careful distribution of Notices respecting changes in lights, &c., whether
belonging to Local or General Authorities. We would recommend that, in addition to
the present issue, as stated in the Admiralty letter of 1st February 1861, Vol. I., p. 215,
Notices should be sent periodically to Your .Majesty's Consuls at the principal
ports abroad, and that the several changes of the current 3'ear, and the contemplated
changes in the ensuing year, should be published quarterly in a cheap pamphlet, pur-
chascable at the shipping offices at home, and at the consulates abroad ; and that, in
order to insure the masters of ships being provided with these Notices, they should form
part of the dealing papers of at least those vessels that are bound on oversea voyages.
Although aware of the great advantages of local self-government. Your ^Majesty's
Commissioners feel that such a state of things as exists in most of the harbours of
this kingdom, demands the serious consideration of the Legislature, and that means
should be adopted for permitting the exercise of a more effective control over such Local
Authorities as mav persist in mismanaging the interests entrusted to their charge. This
control ought to extend at least to the maintenance, character, and colour of Buoys, to
the use of efficient means of illumination, and to the exposure of improper application
of dues. But no such control could be exercised without a knowledge on the part of
the controlling Board of the actual state of the Local Lights, Buoys, and Beacons, and
this could be gained only by bisptction. Power is given to the Trinity House to enter
any Lighthouse within the jurisdiction of the Northern Commissioners or Ballast Board,
to view the condition thereof (Section 392), and as the Lights of Local Authorities
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOA'S, ANT) BEACONS. XXXvii
arc said to be " -within the jurisdiction" of the General Authorities, they may be
supposed to be inckided ; but here the permission to inspect ceases, no power being given
to the Trinity House to inspect Englisn Local Lights, or to the Scotch or L-ish Boards
to inspect the Local Lights in places under their jurisdiction ; nor are either of the
three empowered to examine Local Buoys or Beacons anywhere. Nor is it to be
expected that were such power simply given to the General Authorities it would be
exercised by them unless in special cases. What is wanted is such a systematic inspection
of all Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons, by some competent authority
as shall serve the purpose of making known to the public, and to the inhabitants of
the port themselves, the merits or deficiencies of the works m question. To gain this
object, the inspector's annual report should be presented to Parliament and published ;
and further, to facilitate the general distribution of that portion which relates to the
locality, the report might be printed in separate sections ; and the Trinity Commissioners
should have further powers in reserve to be called into play in cases of extreme neglect.*
COLONIES.
There appear to be at present various systems in force for the construdion, main- System of con-
tenance, and control of certain Lighthouses in the Colonies under the Superintendence Sntenance,
of Your Majesty's Government. See Vol. IL pp. 631-643. andcontroi.
There is a system provided in the Merchant Shipping Act Amendment Act (1855), see
Clauses L to YIIL, which contemplates the erection of Lighthouses at or near Your
Majesty's Colonies, with money to be raised by the Board of Trade under security of the
dues to be levied in respect thereof, see Clause VIII., and also for placing the Lighthouses
previously existing, or that may hereafter be erected, under the Act, which provides for the
levying of Light Dues in the United Kingdom and Colonies on vessels that have passed or
are about to pass such Lights ; providing, however, that no such Light Dues shairbe levied
in any Colony without the sanction of the Local Legislature having been first obtained.
The only Lighthouse erected under these clauses Is that on Cape Race in Newfoundland.
It appears that several applications have been made under this Act, see Vol. II., some of
which have been declined, and some are still under consideration.
The Merchant Shipping Act Amendment Act appears to have arisen out of a correspond-
ence between the Departments of the Board of Trade, the Admiralty, the Treasury, the
Colonies, and Mr. Gordon, C. E., (sec Parliamentary Paper No. 355 of 1855,) in which
Mr. Gordon and the Admiralty press upon the attention of the Board of Trade the
great importance of availing themselves of their position as defined in the Merchant
Shipping Act, and urge them to proceed to aid in the erection and supervision of Light-
houses in or near the Colonies.
There are numerous Lighthouses in the Colonies to which our inquiry under the
Commission does not extend, as they are not under the superintendence of Your Majesty's
Government. The Board of Admiralty, in their letter of the 6th December 1854,
evidently contemplated a much more extensive interference by the Home Government
with the Colonial Lights, owing to the unguarded state of "the seas bordering upon
Your Majesty's possessions abroad, and to the bad condition or management of some of the
existing lights ; but the Merchant Shipping Act Amendment Act gives only very restricted
permissive power to the Home Government, and leaves the faulty Lights as they were.
That other systems are in force may be shown by the following table : —
Colonial
Date of First
Bv -n-hora
Sum
By -H-hom Maintained
At what
Lighthouses.
Exhibition.
Constructed.
Expended.
and Controlled.
Annual Cost.
£
£
Gun CaVj Bahamas
1836
Imperial Go-
vernment.
3,177
Imperial Govern-
ment.
1,080
Abaco „ - -
1836
„
3,967
J,
Cay Snl Bank „ -
1839
,,
3,804
„
,,
Great Isaacs „ - -
1859
>.
15,814
,,
—
Lobos Cay „ -
1860
"
19,000
Cape Pembroke, Falkland Islands
1855
jj
2,400
"
315
{continued)^
* Since the above was written it has come to our knowledge that the Commissioners of Northern Lights
recommended a similar system of control to be introduced in the first Merchant Shipping Act.
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Insufficiency
o f present
system.
Change of
stj.^tcm recoin-
mended.
Colonial
Date of First
Bt 'Brhom
Sam
By -H-hom Maintained
At -what
Lighthouses.
Exhibition.
Constructed.
Expended.
and Controlled.
Annual Cost.
Cape Race, Newfoundland
1856
Imperial Go-
vernment.
5,452
Board of Trade,
Toll on Shipping.
600
Breaksea Island, Australia
1858
„
J 3,796 {
Imperial Govern-
345
Point King „ -
1858
ment.
Cerise, Ionian Sea
1857
„
2,989
Imperial Govern-
—
ment and Ionian
Government.
Cape Point. Cape of Good Hope
1860
„
4,500
Colony
—
IJonian Rocks ., -
Unfinished
„
5,514
„
—
Great Basses, Ceylon
Not com-
menced.
„
42,236
It will be obvious from the foregoing table that the Board of Trade has not confined
its action in the erection of Colonial Lighthouses to the powers provided bv the Merchant
Shipping Act Amendment Act, but has in the cases of the Great Isaacs, Lobos Cay,
Cape Point, Roman Rocks, commenced since the passing of that Act, relied on the
Imperial funds for their construction. Two of the above are maintained by Imperial, and
two others by Colonial funds.
The Board of Trade evidently consider that it is still within their power, and that
power will probably be exercised, to maintain certain Colonial Lighthouses, [although
erected since the Amendment Act of the [Merchant Shipping Act was passed,] entirely
from the Consolidated Fund.
Control over the expenses of constructing certain Lightliouscs in the Colonies is
exercised by the Home Legislature, to whom are submitted all recommendations of
expenditure on a Colonial Lighthouse. A certain undefined amount of control over the
maintcufince. and fnanagement of some of the Colonial Lighthouses is recognized as con-
setpient upon, and resulting from, aid more or less partial, having been given from
Imperial funds, or from passing dues levied in consequence of any Act of Parliament
to that effect. In practically enforcing this control we suppose the stringency would
varv with the amount of the aid given, as compared with the total sum expended.
In respect to scientific points, or matters of detail in the management of these lights, we
find that the practice of the Board of Trade has been to consult the Trinity House, or its
officers, or to follow their procedure.
The machiner}' at the disposal of the Board of Trade for the construction, maintenance,
and control of certain Lighthouses in Your Majesty's Colonial possessions, under the
superintendence of Your Majesty's Government, appears in certain cases to have been
insufficient. This insufficiency is especially apparent in the total failure to erect a Light-
house at the Great Basses, Ceylon, where, at the end of five years, and after the
expenditure of 42,UU0/., a light imperatively called for is not yet commenced (see Vol. I.
pp. 138-141, and Vol. II. pp 632, 643, 646); and a most dangerous locality thus
remains unguarded until the Board of Trade have received the report of the Govern-
ment of Ceylon, on the expense of constructing and maintaining, as substitutes for the
proposed Lighthouse, two Lightvessels, which have been recommended b}' the Admiralty-
Surveying Officers, specially employed for this purpose. The steps now adopted are
those which should have been taken in the first instance, and which we recommend
should be adopted for the future. We are therefore of opinion that the systems now in
force for the Construction, Maintenance, and Control of certain Lighthouses in Your
Majesty's possessions, under the superintendence of Your Majesty's Government, are not
well adapted for ensuring the most efficient control of that service with a due regard to
economy, and we beg to submit to Your Majesty that the following change is required : —
Change of System.
Your Commissioners would recommend that the powers of the Board of Trade, with
regard to Colonial Lighthouses, be transferred to the new Central Authority about to be
proposed, and that steps be taken by its members to acquire a complete knowledge of
the requirements and legitimate wants of the trade passing near the British Colonial
possessions, so that applications from any particular trade or colony shall not be either
too easily granted, or too hastily refused.
To ensure this, we would suggest that the officers of Your Majesty's navy, either afloat
or on shore, and especially surveying officers, and, in their absence, artillery and engineer
officers, be made available for periodical inspection of existing Lighthouses in the Colonies,
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS. XXxix
and for reporting on petition for new Lights, or for transfer of old Lights, under the
Merchant Shipping Act Amendment Act ; and also generally on the want, if want
there be, of Lighthouses for the safety of the passing trade.
If this practice is adopted systematically, and the Naval Commander-in-Chief be sup-
plied with printed forms, to be returned periodically, the Lighthouse Board in England
charged with the superintendence of certain Colonial Lights will always have in its pos-
session such an amount of evidence collected on the spot by trustworthy and experienced
persons, as will enable it to come to a sounder decision than can at present be possible
in the absence of any such system.
CHANGE OF SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT.
From an early period of our inquir}' it has been evident to Your Majesty's Commis- change of
sioncrs that changes might be advantageouslj' made in the sj'stem of management and manlgement
control under which the Lighthouses, Floating Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the and control,
coasts of the United Kingdom, and certain Lighthouses in the Colonies, are constructed
and maintained. The evils of a double, triple, or quadruple government, the anomalies
arising from such a multiplicity of sj-stems, and the want of certain necessary elements
in all the managing Boards became more and more apparent as our inquiry advanced.
Yet so complicated was the question, and so great are the interests involved, that it has
demanded long and careful consideration on the part of jonr Commissioners before
deciding on the nature of the change they would recommend. By a sort of exhaustive
process a scheme of government has been arrived at, the reasons for which are more
particularly set forth in the Chairman's letter attached to this Report, and whose words
in describing the proposed change we have thought proper generally to adopt.
It was beyond the province of this Commission to recommend any change in the fund
for maintaining Lights, Buoys, and Beacons, but bearing in mind the possibility or
probability of a change, they have so arranged the proposed scheme of government that
it is equally well adapted, — ist, to the present sj-steir, of levying tolls on the passing
trade ; 2ndly, to a system which has occasionally been suggested, viz., a tonnage rate,
which promises some advantages, and, in addition to that of simplicity, a great economy,
both of labour and expense, in collection ; and, 3rdly, to that system which has been
recommended to the Legislature by the four Special Committees that have been authorized
to treat directly this important portion of the subject, viz., that the expense of erecting
and mainfabiing our Lighf/iotises should be defrayed out of the public revenue.
Had the question submitted for the consideration of Your Majesty's Commissioners
been how to form the most perfect sj-stem of Lighthouse Management for the first time,
we should probably have suggested a simpler and more responsible form of government ;
but, regarding the subject in all its bearings, as we were bound to do, — considering
the existing, almost national institutions, the extent of practical knowledge possessed
by them, as well as the large machinery employed, — we have deemed it expedient to build
on existing foundations rather than to reconstruct out of entirely new materials ; and
we, therefore, recommend that the government and management of the Lights, Buoys,
and Beacons of the United Kingdom, and of certain Lighthouses in the Colonies, be
vested in a new central authority to be denominated the Trinity Commissioners for
Lights, and that the expenditure of such Commissioners be brought directly under the
control of the House of Commons b}' an annual submission of their estimates, through
the Board of Trade or the Board of Admiralty, as may be deemed best, and that when
once the estimates have been approved of by Parhament the expenditure of the funds
voted be entrusted to the sole discretion of the Trinity Commissioners, under the recog-
nized system of imprest and audit.
To constitute this Central Authority, to be denominated the " Ti-inity Commissioners Central Autko-
for Lights," it is proposed that four members be elected by the Elder Brethren in such a '^1%"^^'
manner as will ensure the retirement and election, after the four first years, of one member
annually, and that to these four be added one member for Scotland, to reside in Edin-
burgh, and another for Ireland, to reside in Dublin, elected every four years, the whole
to be eligible for re-election ; and, in addition to the above six members, who should be
engaged in no other business, that one other member be selected by the Government
with special reference to his scientific acquirements in those branches of knowledge
which relate to Coast illumination, as enumerated by us in Circulars IX. and X., the
whole subject to the approval of Government, and to have salaries commensurate with
the importance of their duties and with the necessary engagement of their time. To
these it is proposed to add the Astronomer Royal, the Hydrographer of the Admiralty,
the Comptroller-General of Coast Guard, and one of the Professional Members of the
g 2
xl
EEPOKT OF C'OMMISSIOXEKS OX LIGHTS, EUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Hoi/til Socicli/
to vhil.
to aid in liqht-
Board of Trade, -which last four persons would be ex-officio " Trinity Commissioners
for Li"-hts," and should be liberally paid for their attendance at the weekly Boards, or
oftener if summoned.
The appointment of a governing body such as is sketched out above implies the
transference to it of the "l^ighthouse duties of the Board of Trade, Trinity House,
Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, and Ballast Board ; and we recommend that
the election of the Scotch and Irish resident members should rest with the public bodies
whose members have so long and so zealously, and without gratuity, performed the
Lighthouse duties in the two countries ; and for the purpose of selection from time to
time it would be highly desirable that the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses
should continue to exist as a body constituted as at present.
The members, who would thus be resident in .Scotland and Ireland, and whose
duties in those countries would be generally executive, should receive the s.mie salary
as the four executive members of the Central Board, selected from the Elder Brethren ;
and as the subject of new works and changes would probably only be discussed at
collective mcetinos in London, and at a time when the estimates were being prepared for
Parliament, it would be proper that they should attend in London at that period, and
on other occasions when summoned by the Central Board.
In addition to the increased responsibilities to be vested in the new governing
authority, we recommend that the whole of the Local Lights and Buoyage in this
kino-doni be subiected to an annual inspection under the direction of the Trinity
Commissioners for Lights, and an Annual llcport of the same be presented to Parlia-
ment with the Lighthouse Estimates ; that the powers already vested in the General
Lio-hthouse Authority with regard to Local Lights, &c., by various Acts of Parliament,
be°put into more active operation ; and that further powers be given, as already stated ;
and in the event of the expenses for Lights, Sec, being defrayed out of the public
revenue that the Admiralty Lights, Beacons, and Buoys, exclusive of IMooring and
Warping Buoys, be given over to the same body.
,sy,,#;t_Qaalifications of a special order, such as are only to be found in a person trained
to the business of what the Astronomer Roj-al, in his letter of the 10th November last.
Representation
in rarliameut.
jpectors
with optical engineering. The clerical staff now employed in the management of Light-
house business would be more than sufficient under the altered circumstances.
Though we recommend the assimilation and amalgamation of the entire Lighthouse
svstems of Emjland, Scotland, and Ireland, yet, on account of the great extent of coast
line in the three countries, we consider it desirable to retain an office in Edinburgh and
another in Dublin, which shall be the ordinary head-quarters of the resident member of
the Central Authoritv, with the secretar}- and inspector of Lights, attached to Scotland
or Ireland respectively. In Ireland a marine inspector for Floating Lights and Buoys
will be necessary, as at present ; and another will be required for England, unless the
Trinity Commissioners should continue to discharge that duty, as it is at present
performed bv the Elder Brethren.
Visifafioii of the Roi/al Sociefi/. — In order to satisf^^ the public that our Lighthouses,
and the whole system of Lighthouse illumination, are in all respects what the highest
state of science can produce, and the interests of this great maritime country require.
Your Commissioners would recommend that Your Majesty should be advised to issue
Your warrant appointing the President and Council with other Fellows of the Royal
Societv annually to visit the central establishment of the Trinity Commissioners, as
is now the case" with the Uoyal Observatory ; and that the Trinity Conunissioncrs for
Lio-hts should on that occasion submit a Report of their proceedings in all matters
relatino- to the development of and improvement in Lighthouse illumination to the
Visitina; Board of the Royal Society ; such Report to" be presented to Parliament
with the annual estimates.
Cnast Guard.— We recommend that the officers of the Coast Guard be employed in
that frequent inspection of the Lights by night which we have reason to believe is absolutely
necessary to the incessant maintenance of the best flames, and to the due vigilance
of the keepers; also that the gunboats and the tenders attached to this branch of the
service should be employed, when practicable, for purposes of inspection, supply of stores,
and changing of crews, in lieu of the expensive system at present in operation. See
Vol. I. p. 7 L, and 228.
Reprcseiitdfinn in Parliaincnf.— Whether the funds to be provided for the Lighthouse
service continue to be raised by dues, or by the simpler and more economic mode of a
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYe', AND BEACONS. xlf
tonnage rate, or ultimately from Imperial funds, the estimates regulating the amount of
these funds -will have to be submitted to Parliament ; and as the proposed Central Board
Avould not be represented in, and would not be directly responsible to Parliament, some
department of Government will have to present the estinsates to the House of Commons,
and -whatever that department might be, it would necessarily in some sense be responsible
for those estimates ; but this responsibility should extend no furtiier than to the being
able fully to explain the several items of those estimates to the House.
This representative body, Your Majesty's Commissioners propose, should be either the Admiralty or
Board of Trade or the Admiralty. Ui^ard of Trade.
In the various Statutes establishing the authority and duties of the Trinity House,
the Office of the Lord High Admiral or that of the Commissioners for executing that
otRce is frequently referred to ; and it is impossible to read the evidence taken by the
Committees successively appointed by Parliament in 1822, 1834, and 1845, to inquire
into Lighthouse management, or the correspondence in the last twenty years between
the Admiralty, the Board of Trade, and the Colonial OfHce respecting Colonial Lights,
without it being apparent that not only the Board of Trade, but the Trinitv House also,
have more or less leant upon the Admiralty in fulfilling their duties, and that there must
always be an official and essential rehition betwixt the Lighthouse service and the Admi-
ralty; but although the dependence of the one upon the other of these departments has in
no degree diminished, but jdther the contrary, yet in the Merchant Shipping Act, 1854,
this connection is ignored, and the Admiralty nov/here appears in our Lighthouse polity,
as set forth in that Act.
Nevertheless, the xidmiraltj' is that department of the Government which more than
any other possesses the means for effectually assisting in carrying on the Lighthouse
service. These means consist of its able Hydrographic staff, both at home and abroad,
and the necessary affinity existing between tliat staff and the lyighthouse service, as shown
in the Admiralt}^ letter of 1st February 1861 (Vol. I. p. 215), its present complete chain-
work of Coast Guard stations and flotilla, under intelligent naval officers at every point of
the coast (see Coast Guard Map, Vol. I.) ; and its employment of the ablest engineers
of this country, whose estimate for a work, when once submitted, would scarcely admit
of the prejudicial disputes which now retard the prosecution of important works.
On the other hand, we have the Board of Trade, a department having the general
superintendence of matters relating to merchant ships and seamen, and which, since
the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1854, has had the control over the three
General Lighthouse Authorities, and in its six years' exercise of that control much
valuable experience must have been gained ; it is also the department at present
representing the Lighthouse Authorities in Parliament, it has — so far as the limited
machinery at its disposal admits — devoted great attention to Lighthouse business, and has
most scrupulously kept in check all Lighthouse expenditure ; whilst, under the system
as now proposed, the Board of Trade would have one of its professional members an
ex officio member of the new Central Body.
Leaving it then an open question, to be decided by the Government, whether the
Board of Trade or the Admiralty is for the future to represent our Lighthouse Govern-
ment in Parliament, and reverting to the unanimous opinions of the sevei-al Parliamentary
Committees, embodied as those opinions are in the recommendation of the Committee of
1845, viz. " That all expenses for the erection and maintenance of Lighthouses, Floating
" Lights, Buoys and Beacons on the coast of the United Kingdom he thenceforth
" defrayed out of the Public Revenue,'' the representative duties would be confined to Prcscntiiion ct
the presentation of estimates of a simple nature prepared by the Trinity House Commis-
sioners in a comprehensive form, and the acquiring of information necessary for the full
explanation of these estimates to the House of Commons ; neither of which would involve
an amount of trouble deserving of any consideration in weighing the relative advantages
possessed bj- the two departments, or in deciding which is most likely to affoi'd the
largest amount of material support to the Commissioners appointed to carrj- out the
Lighthouse service of the country.
CONCLUSION.
Your Majesty's Commissioners would not close this Report without expressing their
obligations to those Foreign Governments who have so courteously replied to our some-
what lengthy questions, and have furnished us wnth such elaborate di-awings and descrip-
tions ; and in particular we desire to thank M. Reynaud, the head of the Lighthouse
Department in France, whose readiness and endeavours to meet the wishes of Your
Commissioners have been marked with the greatest care and goodwill, and from whose
good offices they have derived valuable assistance, — and not from his services only,
g3
estimates.
xlii REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
but also from those of others connected with his department. To Senor Lucio del
Valle, of the Coviision, de Faros of Spain our thanks are due also for much interesting
information.
To our Secretary Ave are also greatly- indebted. His peculiar genius and aptness for
the work in hand lias been remarkable, as shown amongst other particulars in the
Drawings and Diagrams prepared by him ; and some of the most valuable of our
experiments have originated in his suggestions : his ability has also been shown in the
arrangement, abstracts, and summary of the evidence.
We have already spoken of what is owing to the Astronomer Royal, and to those
Scientific Men who have generously, and at the cost of valuable time, furnished such
replies to our questions as cannot fail to be of use in the furtherance of an important
science ; and in the proposals sent to us by Manufacturers and others for improvements
in tide lights, in the build of Lightships, in Lamps, tSrc, there is ample evidence of the skill
and ingenuity available in this country for further facilitating the navigation of these
shores.
In conclusion, Your Commissioners would humbly express their hope that the attention
which they have given to the subject of the inquiry which they were commanded to under
take, may not be entirely fruitless ; and that the remarks and observations contained in the
Report now humbly submitted to Your Majesty may result in an improvement in Light-
house Illumination, in a more complete system of lighting and marking the shores of Your
Majesty's dominions, and in the furtherance of the interests of Commerce and of
Humanity, — interests which Your Commissioners are fully sensible must ever hold a high
place in Your Majesty's regard.
All which we humbly submit to Your Majesty.
Witness our hands and seals this 5th day of March 186L
(Signed) AY. A. B. HAMILTON, (l.s.)
ALFRED P. RYDER. (l.s.)
J. H. GLADSTONE. (l.s.)
DUNCAN DUNBAR. (l.s.)
S. R. GRAVES. (L.s.)
J. F. Campbell,
Secretary,
xliii
LETTER OF THE CHAIRMAN
OP THE
ROYAL COMMISSION, LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
After our many discussions on Lighthouse Government, I think I have gathered what
would mostprobabli/ be the views of my colleagues on that subject : I propose, therefore,
to put in ivriting what I believe those views generally to be ; and if I succeed in my
interpretation of them, the following paper may aid in the completion of that part of
our Report which relates to Management and Control, — remembering always there is
some further oral evidence to be taken, and that Capt. Sulivans examinatio7i is
deferred till the last.
W. A. B. Hamilton.
\QtJb January 186L
1 . ir has been necessary, during our inquiry, to bear in mind that it is not with the Range of
whole of the duties of the Corporation of Trinity House that this Commission has had inquiry of the
to do ; but with those only which relate to Lights, Buoys, and Beacons. .ommission.
2. The same consideration was necessary in investigating the Irish lighthouse sj'stem.
It was not with the Ballast Board of Dublin, as a Corporation, that we were dealing, but
only so far as respects its management of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons.
3. It is different, however, when we come to Scotland ; there we have a Board, the only
Lighthouse Board (in the ordinary meaning of the term) in the kingdom; and this Board
is denominated the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses.
4. The Corporation of Trinity House was founded in the reign of Henry VII., "for Purposes for
" the government and increase of the navigation of England, and the relief of poor '^hich Trinity
" mariners, their widows, orphans, &c. ;" and in time the Corporation came to be charged foundedTn
with other duties, as, for instance, in the reign of Elizabeth, when an Act was passed '■'^'■*-
enabling the Trinity House to erect sea marks, beacons, and signs of the sea, and to ^^^f ^'^!"'
place buoys ; and it was not until the year l607 that the Trinity House could be properly of James i."
said to have had any light for the direction of navigation upon the open sea, when by First Light-
virtue of their statute of the 8th of Elizabeth, the Elder Brethren laid claim to one of Geo.Ti.^
which had been set vip in 1606 by Mr. Thomas Bushell, a private gentleman, at his own
charge, and whom they afterwards admitted to be their tenant both for this and for other
lights, as well as for certain buoys and beacons. The first floating light (the Nore) was
applied for and placed in 1732.
5. The members of the Corporation of Trinity House are self elected ; and although Members of
the acting members appear to be selected from amongst the most respectable of the com- •'oj'poi'ation of
manders of our mercantile navy sailing out of the Port of London, they are not chosen -n-hence
for any special qualification they may possess for the scientific duties" connected with ^"'^'^''^'^'^
lighthouse service.
6. In Ireland, the members of the Ballast Board, a Corporation instituted by Act of Baibst Board :
Parliament in 1763 for preserving and improving the Port of Dublin, are not even nautical bHshed' and for
men, with the exception of one retired naval officer ; nor does it contain amongst its ^i?A-^m^o%r
members any, with the above exception, that have been selected with reference to light-
house requirements.
7. With respect to Scotland, a Board consisting of two Law Officers of the Crown, the Scotch Board:
Sheriffs of certain maritime counties, the Provosts of certain Royal burghs and the Provost bi'iXd"" d f
of Greenock, was specially established in 17S6, by Act of Parliament, for the management wiiarpurpose."
exclusively of Lights, &c. in that country. As is the case in the Irish Board, provision
does not seem to have been made in that Act for the members of the Scotch Board being
persons conversant with lighthouse science or management; but in the exercise of these
duties, special care has been taken by the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses to
secure the services of persons who were possessed of the necessary qualifications.
8. We have thus, properly speaking, to deal with two corporations, the Trinity House Lighthouse
in England, and the Ballast Board in Ireland, (but only as regards that portion "of their Authorities.
duties which relates to lights, &c.,) whilst in Scotland our business is simply with a
Lighthouse Board.
9. To illustrate the above, we have only to turn to Question V., Circular No. I., Kxecutive
"Constitution of General Authorities, England ; " and to Answer, page 7, Vol. II., J'^f-'"'''''""'
where we shall find, that of seven Committees into which the 20 acting Elder Brethren TrSt'y^HoiLe
of the Trinity House are divided, for the general business of that Corporation, one only, two'^com'^ ''^
" The Committee of Lighthouses," consisting of four or five members and the chairman, mittees.""
cr 4
xliv
REPORT OF CCMMISSIOXERS ON TJfillTS, BITOYS, AND BEACONS.
Executive
business of
Irish Light-
houses, con-
ducted by two
Committees of
the Ballast
Board.
Nature of
business, and
number of
membf'rs
composinp^
Scotch Board.
Views of Par-
mentary Com-
mittees as to the
expediency of
one Central
Lighthouse
Board.
Question as to
composition of
a Central
Board.
Trinity House
Committee for
Lighthouses
the ground-
work for a
Central Board.
Xecessily for
introilucing
new elements.
Kumbers and
composition of
the new
Central Board.
is required exclusively for the executive business of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons ; and
that they meet hut once a -week as a Committee, for that business ; at the same time
it ibrms "part of the duties of another Committee, viz., "The Examining Committee,"
annually to inspect the sands between Yarmouth and the South Foreland, and other
localities where changes are likely to have taken place ; and it is under the supervision
of this last Connuittee that all notices to mariners are framed and issued ; but the duties
of both Committees are purely administrative, jurisdiction resting with the entire Board
whose sanction has to be obtained before any reconuuendation of a Committee can be
carried into effect. The routine duties of the Committee of Lighthouses are fully set
forth at page 7, Vol. II. Each of the acting Elder Brethren receives a salary of
300/. a year.
10. Again, with respect to Ireland:- — the Answer to Question 2, Circular No. 1,
page 211, Vol. II., shows that out of nine Committees into wliich the Corpora-
tion of the Ballast Board, consisting of 23 members, are divided for conducting its
business, two only are specially appropriated to the executive business of the Irisli
Lights. These two Committees are entitled the Lightship, and the Inspecting Com-
mittees ; the former consists of live, and the latter of six members, all unpaid.
Important questions relative to Lighthouses receive the consideration of the whole of
the Ballast Board.
11. The vScotch Board, as before stated, has none other than Lighthouse business to
attend to, and is composed of twenty-eight unpaid Commissioners, though, under an Act
subsetiuent to that of i7f^G, provision is made, under certain circumstances, for an addition
to those numbers.
Proposed Central Board.
12. This Commission can hardly have arrived at the present stage of its inquiry without
having come to the conclusion that the several Parliamentary Committees that have been
appointed I'rom time to time since 1S22 to inquire into the JNlanagemcnt of Lightb.ouses in
this country, were justified in the view they took (without exception) of the expediency of
those Lighthouses being under the management of one Board, resident in London.
13. The question now arises, admitting the necessity of such a Board, whether
there exist materials or a groimdwork on which an efficient Central Board could be
constituted? and this is a point upon which, after our long and careful investigations, we
are in a position to form some conclusion.
14. I have said above that the members of the Corporation of Trinity House are not
selected for their special qualification for Lighthouse business ; but this Commission has
been brought in contact vtith most of the gentlemen of that Corporation who compose
its present Committees for Lighthouses, ike, and I am sure that m^' colleagues must be
satisfied as to the general ability, tlie intelligence, and the anxious desire of those
gentlemen to fulfil the duties devolving upon them. The system of their election from
among the Elder Brethren of the Corporation is stated at page 8, Vol. II. ; and,
adopting such Committee as a nucleus or basis upon which to frame a Central Board,
let us consider the sort of infusion necessary to complete it.
15. It is manifest from our inquiries, that the elements essentially wanting are the
sc'icnfific and the IqidrograpJilc ; and these considerations have to do with the
composition of the new Central Board as well as its staff.
16. The numbers as well as the qualifications of the members necessary for composing
a Central Board, will now have to be considered.
17. Of the five Elder Brethren who now constitute the present Committee for light-
houses, we find that not more than four are in regular attendance ; and that number
mitiht be adopted as constituting the Trinity House proportion of a Central Board,
to be denominated the "Trinity Commissioners for Lights," such four members to
be elected by the Elder Brethren, subject to the approval of the Government, and
to have such addition to their present salaries as might be considered commensurate
with the increased importance of their duties, and with the necessary engagement
of the whole of their time,* and to these four should be added one member for
Scotland, to reside in Edinburgh, and another for Ireland, to reside in Dublin ; imd
in addition to the above six members one other member should be selected by the
(Government Avith special reference to his scientific acquirements in those branches of
knowledge which relate to coast illumination, as enumerated by us in Cii'culars 9 and 10,
* The four Commissioners elected in the first instance hy the Corpor.ation of Trinity House, to liold tlicir
appointments for four years, at tiic end of which time one of tlicse Commissioners -will retire by ballot, ami
in each succeeding year another to retire in like manner, till the four orii.;iiuilly elected shall have been worked
off; after which, one (^'nnmi.ssioner to retire hij rotation every year. All members retiring, to be eligible tor
re-election : vacaucie.* to be filled up by the Trinity House. All elections to be subject to the approval of
Government.
LKTTEU OF THE t'FIAIKMAX. xlv
with a suitable salary. To these should be added the Astronomer Royal, the Hydro-
grapher of the Admiralty, the Comptroller-General of Coast Guard, and one of the
Professional Members of the Board of Trade, which last four persons would be ex-officio
" Trinity Commissioners ibr Lights," and should be liberally paid for their attendance
at the weekly Boards, or oftener if summoned. It would be competent of course to the
Government to increase the number of the Central Board.
IS. With respect to the Scotch and Irish members of the proposed Central Board, this Mode of
Connnission cannot doubt that a fit person for such appointment is now to be found "^'^"^l"","^
amono'st the Commissioners for Northern Lighthouses, and in the Ballast Board of Dublin, and Irish
respectively ; and I am sure ray colleagues will be of opinion that the selection of Commissioners.
these members, cither from their own body or elsewhere, should rest with the above
gentlemen [subject always to the approval of the Government], who have so long
and zealously, and hitherto without gratuity, performed the Lighthouse duties in
Scotland and Ireland. The Scotch and Irish members of the Central Board should hold
their appointments for four years, and be eligible for re-election ; and the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses, who are unpaid, might continue to exist as a body Commissioners
constituted as at present, for the purpose of selecting from time to time the person who is to ^if^tw™ to
be the Scotch member of the new Central Board.* The members, who would thus be remain incor-
rcsident in Scotland and Ireland, and whose duties in those countries vvould be gene- ^"eciafpur- "'
rally executive, should receive the same salary as the four executive members of the poses.
Central Board, selected from the Elder Brethren ; and as the subject of new works and
changes would probably only be discussed at collective meetings in London, and at a time
when the estimates were being prepared for Parliament, it would be proper that they
should attend in London at that period, and on other occasions when summoned by the
Central Board.
19. And in order to satisfy the public that our Lighthouses, and the Avhole system of Royal Society
Lighthouse illumination, are in all respects what the highest state of science can produce, v^k'SntJ-d
and the interests of this great maritime country require, the Queen might be advised to Estabiisiiment.
issue Her warrant appointing the President and Council with other Fellows of the Royal
Society annually to visit the central establishment at the Trinity House, as is now
the case with the Royal Observatory ; and that the Trinity Commissioners for Lights
should on that occasion submit a Report of their proceedings in all matters relating to the
development of and improvement in Lighthouse illumination to the Visiting Board of the
Royal Society ; such Report to be presented to Parliament with the annual estimates.
'Staff of ijenfral Board.
20. The next point for consideration is, the staff for the proposed Central Board. All lumbers and
our observations — all our experiments, go to show that qualifications of a special order, such composition of
as arc only to be found in a person trained to the business of what the Astronomer Royal, ponfoTof the
in his letter of the 10th November last, aptl}^ terms an "Optical Engineer," are absolutely Central staff,
necessary. The qualifications that such a person must bring with him are clearly set
forth in that valuable paper ; and it might be necessary for purposes hereafter to be
mentioned, that such officer should have the assistance of three Assistant Optical
Engineers (who will also be " Inspectors of Lights,")— one for England, one for Scotland,
and one for Ireland ; whilst, as regards the clerical staff, that now employed in the
department of the Trinity House for the management of Lights, <S>rc., would be amply
sufficient.
21. It is true that at first sight the Trinity House would seem to be supplied with all
that could be required of an Optical Engineer and Inspector of Lights ; for the Elder
Brethren have had at their command, and have, to a certain extent, availed themselves
of the talents and genius of a Faraday, and to say that science were wanting where
Professor Faraday is the scientific adviser, would seem to be a contradiction in terms ; but Better appiica^
it was necessary, as this Commission have seen, to turn those talents and that genius foTFlrl'dfT
in the required direction, to secure to the science of Lighthouse illumination, that per- services;
fection which it has been the aim of this Commission to prepare the way to ; and it
Avas in consequence of the researches and experiments of this Commission, that the great
talents of Professor Faraday were directed to those points which we now find essential
for the best production of hght,— its perfect adaptation to a costly illuminating apparatus,
— and the most correct adjustment of that apparatus for Lighthouse purposes.
22. All these are subjects that a Faraday's powers have promptly mastered since prof. Faraday
__^ should be pro-
made for "<Ae meetings of the Commissioners,
I,
xlvi
REPORT OF COMMISSIONERS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Transference
of the duties of
tbe Scotch and
Irish Boards.
Merits of
Scotch and
Irish Boards
Lighthouse
systems in
England, Scot'
land, and Ire-
land to he
assimilated.
Staff for Scot-
laud and Ire-
land.
Authority to
be given to
Central Boird
over local
lights, buoys,
&c., and report
to be made to
Parliament.
Precedents for
erecting and
maintaining
Lighthouses
trora Imperial
funds.
attention has been called to them by this Commission ; but precisely in proportion to
the great scope of his talents, is the difficulty of their being absolutely, and at all
times, at the command of the Trinity Commissioners ibr Lights ; for, assuming lor tlie
moment that Professor Faraday were the Optical Engineer to the new Board, that
appointment must carry with it the employment of his whole time. The scientific
woild, however, could not afford that a Faraday's talents should be entirely devoted to
Lighthouse duties, but whatever portion of his valuable time and peculiar talents he
can afford to the Central Board, for that time and for the use of those talents he should
be amply remunerated.
23. The appointment of a Central Governing Board as above sketched out, implies
the transference to it of the Lighthouse duties of the Scotch and Irish Boards ; but the
absolute necessity for thus simplifying the present cumbersome scheme of Government
has been apparent to us from the first, and docs not necessarily imply the slightest reflec-
tion on the management of those Boards, wliich will for the future be represented by the
two Commissioners to be elected by those Boards.
24. I do not now enter at large upon the respective claims of each ; but whilst the Scotch
and Irish Boards are not without their merits, and may fairly be described as Lighthouse
Establishments working under difficulties, the Scotch Board deserves to be especially
praised lor the admirable management of its Lights, though the costliness of some of its
works, (a costliness probably of easy explanation,) in some measure accounts for what
would otherwise seem to be an over jealous exercise of control on the part of the Board
of Trade.
Staffs for Scotland and Ireland.
25. The question of the staff sufficient for the Scotch and Irish service has now to
be considered.
26. We have seen the necessity- for assimilating and amalgamating the entire Light-
house systems of England, Scotland, and Ireland, yet the multifarious duties of the three
establishments, together with the great extent of coast line in the three countries, will render
necessary the continuance of a small scientific staff'in Scotland and Ireland, in conjunction
with the Commissioner, or member of the Central Board, resident respectively in those
countries.
27. It is probable, therefore, that a Secretary, together with an " Optical Engineer and
Inspector of Lights," will be required in Scotland ; and it might also be advisable to retain,
if possible, for certain duties, the services of the Messrs. Stevenson, the engineers at
present employed by the Scotch Board, who have devoted a large portion of their time
and talents to the science of Lighthouse illumination, and with great success ; whilst for
Ireland, (where we have an overworked engineer,) a Secretary, together with an " Assist-
ant Optical Engineer and Inspector of Lights," with the present " ]Marine Inspectoi- "
for Floating Lights and Buoys, will be necessary. In Scotland there are no floating lights
28. In addition to the increased responsibilities which m'c contemplate vesting in the Cen-
tral Board, I believe we are prepared to reconnncnd that the whole of the Local Lights and
Buoyage in this kingdom shall be annually inspected under the direction of the Trinity
Commissioners for Lights, and that an Annual Report on the subject should be presented
to Parliament with the Lighthouse Estimates; — that the extensive powers already vested
in the Trinity House with regard to local lights, Ike. by various Acts of Parliament should
be put into more active operation ; and that further powers should be given to the General
Lighthouse Authority to enforce on Local Authorities, not only the placing as at present
of a Buoy, but the continued and effective maintenance of it in its proper position ; and
in the event of the expenses for Lights, &c. being defrayed out of the public revenue,
that the Admiralty Lights, Beacons, and Buoys, exclusive of Mooring and Warping
Buoys, be given over to the same body. Assuming such to be the views of the Commis-
sion,' the necessity for attaching the three Assistant Optical Engineers and Inspectors of
Lights to the central staff', to aid in the inspection, and in reporting on the general and
local lights, in England, Scotland, and Ireland, will be apparent.*
29. So far we have been considering a Central Board of government and its Staff": the
next question relates to —
Representation in Parliuiiient.
30. The principle that the cost of erecting and maintaining Lighthouses may be
defrayed out of the public revenue, appears to have been already sanctioned by
Parliament; for, looking to the Merchant Shipping Act Amendment Act 1855, and to
the Board of Trade's letter to this Commission, dated 25th January 1860, it
• The Astronomer Royal in recommending the appointment of an " Optical Engineer," observes (in
l::s li'itcr of the 10(h November 1860), that the examiii.ntion of existing Lighthouses by such jfHcer would
probably occupy the two first years of his time.
LETTER OF THE CHAIRMAN. xlvii
seems that some of our Colonial Lighthouses,— for instance, those at the Bahamas
and at the Falkland Islands, have been erected and are maintained entirely out
of Imperial funds, and are entirel_y under the control of the Board of Trade ; that
other Lighthouses, such as those at King George's Sound, Western Australia
have been erected and are to be maintained by Imperial funds until such time
as the colony is in a position to maintain them itself ; and that others, such as the Lio-ht-
house at Cerigo, have been erwVf'f/ with Imperial funds, and are maintained ]Gm.\\y \iy
Her Majesty's Government and the Ionian Government; — that the cost of erection ot tnt
Roman Rocks Lighthouse at the Cape of Good Hope is to be borne by Imperial funds •
and that sums have been from time to time voted by Parliament for the erection of Light-
houses at the Great Basses, at Vancouver's Island, and at Cape Point LighthousCj
Cape of Good Hope, and that Parliament will be asked for additional sums for
the same purposes. This practice, sanctioned by the Legislature in so many
instances, is, in a certain sense and to a certain extent, giving effect to the recom-
mendation of the various Parliamentary Committees that have been appointed since
1834 (including the Committee on Merchant Shipping appointed in this year), viz.,
that the expense of maintcmiing our Lighthouses, Sfc. should be defrayed out of the\mhlic
revenue. _ In speaking, therefore, of a change in the system of Lighthouse Government,
although it may be beyond the province of this Commission to pass an opinion as to the mode
of raising the fund lor maintaining the Lights, &c., or to say out of what funds provision
for the expenses of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons should be made, yet this is a question
impossible to be lost sight of in considering the form of government best adapted for our
Lighthouse system.
31. And herein hes our difficulty,— that we are directed " ^'o inquire whether the
" present sysfetn of managemeiit and control under which the Lighthouses, Floating
" Lights, Buoys, and Beacons on the coasts of the United Kingdom are constructed and
" maintaitied according to the provisioiis of tlie 'Merchant Shipping Jet, 18.54,' is well
" adopted for securing the 7nost efficient lighting and buoying of the coasts oftlie United
" Kingdom, with a due regard to economy ; orivhether any, and if any, what cliange
" might he advantageously made in that system ,•" and whilst (as is the case) our inquiry
has led to the conclusion that some change is required in order to " secure the most
" efficient lighting and buoying of our coasts," and we are prepared to recommend a
change, we are met at the outset by that clause in our instructions, which would seem
to point to the existing provisions of the " Merchant Shipping Act," an Act which by
transferring the Light Dues to the Mercantile Marine Fund, does at the same time give
to the Board of Trade the entire control over those Authorities who are really charo-eable
with " the lighting and buoying of our coasts." ^
32. If, therefore, the proposed ' change should at all appear to be a step beyond the Proposed
bounds miposed upon us, yet it may be allowed to possess this advanta<J-e that if not "^"""^^ ^^"^^"^
strictly adapted to the present '^ provisions oftlie Merchant Shipping Act" it is at least lys^ern'of levy-
adapted,— 1st, to the present system of levying tolls on the passing trade; 2ndly to i"s "'"'•"'• *"
a system which has occasionally been suggested, viz., a tonnage rate, which promises of providing
some advantages, and, in addition to that of simplicity, a great economy both of labour *"""'''•
and expense in collection; and, 3rdlj, to that system which has been" submitted to the
Legislature by the four Special Committees that have been authorized to treat directly this
important portion of the subject, viz., that the expense of erecting and maintaini?ig our
Lighthouses should be defrayed out of the public revenue.*
33 Whether the funds to be provided for the Lighthouse service continue to be Necessity for
raised by dues, or by the simpler and more economic mode of a tonnao-e rate or ^'"""™'^°'!"'y
ultimately from Imperial funds, the estimates regulating the amount of these funds '■'^'■'''°'""'°'
will have to be submitted to Parliament; and as the proposed Central Board
would not be represented in, and would not be directly responsible to Parliament
some department of Government will have to present the estimates to the House of
Commons, and whatever that department might be, it would necessarily in some sense
be responsible for those estimates ; but this responsibility should extend no further
than to the being able fully to explain the several items of those estimates to the House
34.The 422nd section of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1854, provides that " each of the
" General Lighthouse Authorities shall from time to time submit to the Board of Trade
* The sa-ving of a considerable sum iucidental to the collection of light dues must be borne in mmd as con-
nected with the question of their abo ition. At the port of Liverpool five clerks, with an T.g "gate salary of
1,098/. 10^., are requn-ed for the calculations and collection of light dues ; and at the port of London tl?e
L^SOO/ avtr 'Se'"f '•"-" ' l'^ t"'"^' 7'"?'"^" the collectioir of the Trinity Houre^'l^tDu J; tin
Xt[;:imountYoXSSo?atei! '^"^ " ^'^ ^'''''' ^°"^^ *°^- '^^^'"'"•^^-'^' ^'=-' "^ '— f-
h2
xlviii
KEi'DHT DF COMMISSIONKKS ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AXU BEACONS.
Preseut
complicated
system of
govenuuent.
Insufficiency
of macliinery
at the com-
mand of Board
of Trade.
" estimates of all expenses to be incurred by them." Doubts are entertained by the
above Authorities as to the strict legality of the Board of Trade's interpretation of that
section, as exhibited in their minute interference with the mode in which those Authorities
cany out their works after the estimates for them have been finall}- approved 'ny the
Board of Trade ; but, settinu" aside these doubts for the moment, and without dwelling at
any length on the ver}^ considerable increase of correspondence arising out of that Act,
and without referring to the prejudicial delays that may be attributed to the present
working of that particidar section of it, it is difhcult to discover the necessity for that
cumbersonie system which now exists under the two Acts, the Merchant Shipping Act
Amendment Act, 1S5.5, and Merchant Shipping Act, 1854, viz., (i shiir/e ^nn'rniuent
(the Board of Trade) for Lighthouses in the British Possessions abroad, a doiihlc trovern-
meiif for the Lighthouses under the Trinity House, a triawj^iilar <^(>rcrnme.nt for the
Scotch Lighthouses and for Local Lights in England, a/»/ (t qundr'tldtcnd gorernment
for the Irish Lighthouses* and i'or Local Lights in Scotland and Ireland ; — a system
which can scarcely be expected to find favour in the present day.
3.5. The machinery at the disposal of the Board of Trade in much that relates to " the
cn)isfri!cf'iiin, vxi'mfi'innice, luid control offcrfnin Lin/iflioiiscs in our Colonial Possensions "
would appear, from certain papers and from parts of the evidence that have come before us,
to be in some cases insufficient. It cannot be denied that this insufficiency is in a great
degree made up for by the talent and assiduous devotion to their duties of those officers
of the Board of Trade on whom the Lighthouse business devolves; and in Capt. Sulivaa
as one of the professional members attached to that Hoard, and in Mr. Farrcr, the Secretary
of the Marine Department, as well as in Mr. Williams the Accountant, there is all that
can be desired in oflicial talent and zeal. In Capt. Sulivan the Board of Trade has
the assistance of an eminent naval officer, who stands deservedly high in his profession
and with the public, and who, in addition to his accomplishments as a sea officer, has
this one eminent qualification, that he is a superior hydrographer ; but the qualifica-
tions embodied in Capt. Sulivan, though most valuable as far as they go, do not comprise
all that is necessarv in a department which has the entire control over oiu' Liglithouse
Boards ; for not only is it the case that the necessary qualifications can scarcely be found
in any one individual, but we may assume that in carrying out an Act which has for its
object the " amendment and consolidation of the Acts relating to Merchant Sliipping,"
an Act containing 548 clauses, and having one of the eleven parts, into which it is divided,
appropriated to Lighthouses, that Capt. Sulivan, who, in addition to the demands upon his
time which the working of that Act may be supposed to entail, is also one of the lliames
Conservators, has other and important duties to attend to besides those connected with
Lighthouse control ; nor would it appear that he has any qualified staff attached to him to
whom could be deputed the due performance of every one of those duties connected
with Lighthouse government which we now find to be necessary.
Dependence of
the Trinity
House on tiic
AdBiiraltv.
Admiralty
might co-
operate in
Lighthouse
Bervice.
Board of Trade or Admiralty to rf present Lightliouse Board in Parliament.
.36. The question now arises, what public department of the Government could most
advantageously be connected with the new Lighthouse Board, and be charged with re-
presenting that Board in Parliament.
."57. In the various Statutes establishing the authority and duties of the Trinity House,
the office of the Lord High Admiral or that of the Commissioners I'or executing
that office is frequently referred to ; and it is impossible to read the evidence taken by
the Committees successively appointed by Parliament in 1822, 1834, and 1845, to inquire
into Lighthouse management, or the correspondence in the last twenty years between
the Admiralty, the ]5oard of Trade, and the Colonial Office, respecting colonial lights,
without it being apparent that not only the Board of Trade, but the Trinity House
also have more or less leant upon the Admiralty in fulfilling their duties, and tliat there
must always be an official and essential relation betwixt the Trinity House and the
Admiralty ; but although the dependence of the one upon the other of these departments
has in no degree diminished, but rather the contrary, yet in the Merchant Shipping
Act, 1854, this connection is ignored, and the Adniiralty nowhere appears in oiu- lighthouse
polity, as set forth in that Act.
38. Nevertheless, the Admiralty is that department of the Government which more than
any other possesses the means for cftectually assisting in carrying on the Lighthouse
* See piigos 212, 213, Vol. II., where the Act 26 (l(o. ,3. <■. 19. is rdVricd to. wliicli provides
that no iippoinlinent coniicctod with lijihthouscs in Irchiinl cin tnkf place without the iii)piov!il oi' the Lord
Lieiitcniint, wliilst the like sanction bv the Boiii-d of Trade is leipiired.
LETTER OF THE CIIAIEMAX. xlix
service. Those means consist, — 1st, in its numerous and accomplisiicd hydrograpliic
staft', both at home and abroad, by whom all questions or disputed points as to the best
position for a light could be settled, not only readily, but beyond doubt ;* Sndlj-, in
its present complete chainwork of Coast Guard stations and flotilla, under intelligent
naval officers at every point of the coast, as shown b}- the Coast Guard Chart, supplying
as our Coast Guard does a j)crfect machiner}^ not only for aiding in carrying out tlie
Lighthouse service on shore and afloat, but one that could be employed in that frequent
nightly inspection of the lights which we have reason to believe is absolutely necessary
to the incessant maintenance of the l)est flames f , — a local surreilhtnce which in France
is secured bv the superintendence of the Ingcnieurs des Ponfs et C/iaussves resident in each
Dcp<irfcmenf, and to a certain extent in Scotland by the frequent professional visits of
the Sheriffs of the maritime counties to the neighbourhood of the locality in which the
Lighthouses are situated, during which they are in communication with people of all
ranks, and have an opportunity of hearing their views, and of informing themselves of
the condition and management of the Lighthouses, &c., under their charge ; whilst in
England the machinery for this purpose is to be found ready to hand in the present
organization of the Coast Guard service ; and 3rdly, employing, as the Admiralty
occasionally docs in the refuge harbour and other great naval works, some of the
ablest engineers in this country, including the present engineer of the Trinity House and
the engineers employed by the Scotch Board, it has at its command precisely that body of
men whose estimate for a work, when once submitted, would scarcely admit of the
dispute which continues to retard the lighting and marking a serious danger in a
frequented sound on the west coast of Scotland.!
39. On the other hand, we have the Board of Trade, a department having the pr^eeem^col""^^
general superintendence of matters relating to merchant ships and seamen, 'and troiung autho-
Avhich, since the passing the Merchant Shipping Act, 1854, has had the control over the Jigpre^J^nts in
three General Lighthouse Authorities, and in its six years' exercise of that control, much I'ariiamem.
valuable experience must have been gained ; it it also the department at present repre-
senting the Lighthouse Authorities in Parliament, — it has — so far as the means at its
disposal admit, — devoted the utmost attention to Lighthouse business, and has most
scrupulously checked all Lighthouse expenditure ; whilst, under the system as now
proposed, the Board of Trade would have one of its professional members an ex officio
member of the new Central Board.
40. But whilst entertaining the question, which of the two, the Board of Trade or the ^™a"^<i'5'-
Admiralty, is the fitter department to represent the Central Board m Parliament, that would
and in considering the means, as above stated, at the disposal of the Admiralty '^^",^"^31°" if
for assisting in the Lighthouse service, it may be alleged that the Admiralty is already selected to
overburdened. In reply, I can only say that, if the Trinity Commissioners for Lights Lfhfhouse
are well selected, such aid as would be required of the Admiralty would add very little government in
to the present duties of that Board. Those branches of the Admiralty Office, viz., the J'^^^'j^^'j^J'^j^
Hydrographical, the Harbour Branch, and the Director of Works, upon whom the Light- our Lighthouse
house business, consequent upon co-operating in the Lighthouse service would devolve,
are at present in the almost daily exercise of some of the details of that business ;§ the
* The sum voted by Parliament for the surveys of the current year iu which the Naval Surveying Olficers
are engaged is 98,983/. 16s.
I It. would have been of the utmost service if it had formed part of tlie duty of the Inspecting Commander of
Coast Guard at Whitby to have instructed the officers under his orders to inspect nightly, and report upon the
lieight of the flame now being maintained in the Whitby South Lighthouse since the important change that
has been made in the lamp there. Since the above was written " Capitaine de Fregate " L. Foillouy, in an
able pamphlet entitled " Reflections on the Navy " recommends the establishment in France of a Coast Guard
similar to the English, and he proposes that the Commanders of this force shall have the Lights and Beacons
of their Sub-divisions under their control.
\ In April 1859, the estimate for a lighthouse in the Sound of Jura, on the west coast of Scotland, was
objected to, the plans being entirely approved ; the olyection is still maintained, and the lighthouse is not j'et
commenced.
§ See (for example) the case of the Lighthouse on Cape Pembroke in the Falkland Islands, referred to
by Mr. Alexander Gordon, C.E., page 646, Yol. II., in answer to Questions XXI. and XXII., " Mariners
Questions " issued by this Commission. — Appendix to Report.
A complete List of the Lighthouses of the United Kingdom, with the order and character of each light,
is annually published by the Admiralt}- ; and it is the Hydrographer of the Admiralty who sees to
the placing of those lights iu their proper positions in all official charts, viz., those which bear the stamj)
of the Hydrographic Seal of the Admiralty ; whilst no List, as far as we have been able to ascertain,
emanates from the Bo.ard of Trade, or either of the Lighthouse Boards, who would appear to be the culy
responsible authorities in the matter of lights.
N.B. — Since writing the above, a letter has been received from the Ailmiralty — in reply to questions put
by this Commission — strongly illustrative of the remark '■^ that the Admiralti/ isalreadi/ in the almost daili/
exercise of Lighthouse business" and not only as above stated, " (>rp.«^)onsii/;/ " engaged, but to an extent,
and in a manner that even with my acquaintance with Admiralty business, I was scarcely aware of. It
furnishes an example also of a rather rotatory process. It will be seen from that letter that the Admiralty
publishes the official List of Lights ; but the Admiralty is in a great measure dependent for its accuracy as
li3
.service.
1 KKPORT (»F COJLMISSIONEKS OX LIGHTS, BITOYS, AND BEACONS.
Admiralty is at present referred to, and frequently consulted by the Trinity House in
Liiihthouse matters — but irresponsibly, whereas if the Admiralty were selected for the
representing body, it would be aHording statutory as well as material aid ; and, in aifording
such aid, I am persuaded that no increase of statT would be required at that office. Some
additional duty would devolve upon the Comptroller-General of Coast Guard, whose officers
would, for purposes of inspection, and for telegraphing casualties to the Lighthouse offices,
in each capital, be placed in communication with the Lighthouses and Floating Lights
along the co;ist ; but with the Comptroller-General of Coast Guard as an ex-officio
member of the Central Board, the Admiralty would have little, if an\', additional work.
The Comptroller-General of Coast Guard and the Hydrographer of the Admiralty would
have the readiest means of satisfying themselves as to the reasonableness of any
requisition that might be made on the Admiralty, and it would be only necessary for
these officers to report to that Board, and it would issue its orders accordingly. Such
requisition, however, would not be frequent ; as the supply of stores, the changing the
crews of li'i^htvessels, the shifting of buoys and lightvessels, the periodical inspections by
the Inspectors of Lights, &-c., would be effected as at present by vessels specially
employed for those purposes under the superintendence of the proper officers of the Central
Boardi excepting where any of those services could be performad with advantage by the
steam gunboats and the sailing tenders attached to the Coast Guard.
4L Leaving it then an open question, whether the Board of Trade or the Ad-
miralty is for the future to represent our Lighthouse Government in Parliament,
and, reverting to the unanimous opinions of the several Parliamentary Commit-
cees, embodied as those opinions arc in the reconnnendation of the Committee of
1845j viz.: "■That all expenses for the erecfio?i and mainfennnre of Li<rhthouses,
Floatinq Li^ihts, Buoys and Beacons on the coast of the United Kingdom be thence-
forth defraijed out of the Public Revenue," — and assuming that the time is not far
distant when the present ex-officio necessity for the Board of 7'rade being the
representative in I'arliament of our Lighthouse Government will naturally cease,* it might
not be unnatural that the Admiralt3% as able materially to co-operate in the Lighthouse
service, should be selected to represent that service in Parliament, in which case the duty
of such representation would devolve upon a department with which the Trinity House
has from the first had real affinity, whilst we should at the same time be assimilating the
Lio-hthouse government of this country to the systems most generally adopted abroad.
42. Supposing, then, for the moment, that the Admiralty were the department selected
for statutory connection with the new Lighthouse Board, a positive additional duty would,
to a certain extent, devolve upon that member of the Board of Admiralty who would
have to present the Lighthouse Estimates to the House of Commons ; but those estimates
would be of the simplest character if framed in the admirable form in which the Navy
Estimates are now prepared for the House of Commons by the Accountant-General of
the Navy ; and so framed, the Lighthouse Estimates would be such as any one accus-
tomed to the Navy Estimates would be able to master in half an hour.
regards that List on the Board of Trade — it sends its proof slieets for correction to the Board of Trade, and
they come back to the Admiralty to be published. Again, the Admiralty relies on the Board of Trade for
immediate information on an .ilteration taking place in any existing Light, Home or Colonial, or in the case of
a Home Light only, on the Trinity Home; and it is the Admiralty that forthwith issues a printed Notice to
Mariners distributing at once from 700 to 1,000 copies.
In addition to the above mode of obtaining information, the Admiralty endeavours further to obtain it
throuo-h its own surveying officers ; and in the General Naval Instructions now under revise, special directions
are inserted as to Captains reporting on Lights to the Admiralty. It is also at the request of tJie Admiralty
that circulars have been issued to all British Consuls abroad, desiring them to report alterations in Lights
in their several consulates ; whilst the preparing and printing " the Notices to IVIariners " respecting Lights,
must form a very considerable item in the business of the Hydrographer, to say nothing of the labour devolving
on his department in insuring that every new Light shall be immediately inserted in every Admiralty
Chart. (See also Admiralty Circular to Chart Agents, dated Ilydrographic Office, Admiralty, 6th of
February 1861, Vol. I. p. 225')
* Whilst in this country, where we have 404 Lighthouses and Floating Lights (general and local), every foreign
vessel has to pay light dues, — in America, where there are also upwards of 400 Lighthouses and Floating Lights,
no charge whatever is made on British ships. In France it is the same, though it should be stated that in that
country the port charges, which are heavier than in ours, arc made to contribute to Imperial funds, and may
fairly be said to include these dues ; nor are any charges for lights made on British ships entering any of the
ports of Russia, Prussia, Holland, &c. (See " Our Merchant Shipping, its present state considered {and
Appendix)." by W. S. Lindsay, Esq., M.P.)t
N.B. We have it stated that on the 1st November last, the New York Chamber of Commerce accepted a
report made by the Chairman of the Executive Committee, which, amongst other conclusions come to, con-
tained the following: —
" 6. Coasting Trade. The Committee see no objection to discussing in the Chamber the propriety of
throwing open to British Shipping the Coasting Trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Ports, it being
understood that Great Britain would reciprocate by abolishing '• light dues," " passing tolls," " local
charges," '" compulsory pilotage," '• colonial coasting,'' and " intercolonial trade," and " the coasting trade
of the .American lakes."
r.ETTEB OF THE CHAIRMAN, 11
43. In the case of the Board of Trade, this duty is ah-eady performed (though the Facilities at
estimates appear at present in a somewhat meagre shape) by the representative of that J5;\"ij'"!/''f'"^'^
department in the House ; and in either case, and considering that otiicers from each of Trade or the
those Departments would form (ex officio) part of the New Lighthouse Board, the member ^yi."i.''-''ty ex-
presenting the estimates to Parliament would have ample means of acquiring every i-i.-iu:iouse es-
information respectinii: them, and having obtained for himself such information, and once "™:"« :''•'=
. . ^ -t^- , ■ ^ 1 TT 1 /• ■ 1 1 / Uoiiso ot Com-
m a position to explain those estimates to the House, the iinancial control (or, as the mons.
President of the Board of Trade describes it, " ike Control of the Purse,") on the part
of the representing Department should cease.
44. The state and condition of our Lighthouses, and the effectiveness of the lights Lighthouse
themselves, admit of favourable comparison with the great mass of lights and lighthouses systsm
abroad, with the exception of some of the lights in France ; but there is room for hiprovement.
improvement, and the existing system is scarcely the most i'avourable for that impro\'e-
ment : under this system the control and management of our Lights has passed into
the hands of the Government, but as matters stand there is no department of the
Government which possesses machinery fit for the purpose ; the Board of Trade is at Anomaly in
present the governing body, and it is in the actual exercise of functions which, as that P^'^^nt systeir.
, • " . "^ , . . 1 . 1 1 1 • 1 , "' Lighthouse
department is now constituted, it is scarcely equal to, or was probably intended to government,
fulfil ; at the same time, it must be admitted that even before the application of such geK-nc^nd
control, the progress of our Lighthouse Authorities, at least in England and Ireland, management
whether in Lighthouse science or management, had scarcely been in keeping with haTi''' Advance
the state of science in this country; but with a central Board, as now proposed, and in under proposed
itself responsible, improvement might be expected, and it ought in its management to keep tovermnent
pace with the times.
45. " The great safeguard of human life on our coasts is the lighting up of our reefs central Board
" and headlands, and this cafi be accomplished only by Public Boards, composed of qualified tj have control
" individuals, and possessing ample resources and extensive jurisdiction."* In a Central hlZe expen-
Board of eleven members, composed as has been suggested, there can be no doubt that <'''»'<^-
we should have a body fit to manage its own affairs, without that description of check
and control which is now exercised over the three Lighthouse Authorities ; and we
may feel satisfied that in estimates which would be prepared under the superintendence
of such Central Board, the strictest regard would be had to the economical and just
application of its funds consistent with the one paramount object of the proper Lighting
of our Coasts, and in maintaining in the utmost efficiency our National Lighthouse
system, and it may be presumed, that those great interests, — the interests of Humanity,
of Navigation, and of Commerce, — which our Lighthouse Government i is intended
to serve, would be best promoted by providing that the Lighthouse Estimates should
be presented to the House of Commons, as prepared by the Trinity Commissioners
for Lights, to be dealt with by Parliament, as is the case with other estimates coming
before it.
46. In conclusion I need hardly remind my colleagues of our numerous and anxious ^.hidTabne,
conferences on the subject of Lighthouse management and control, and that it has been conclusions
by a sort of exhaustive process that the scheme of Government above proposed has been
arrived at ; nor need I now allude to our long and careful investigations, — the many experi-
ments we have ourselves originated, and in great measure conducted ; nor to that con-
stant and anxious consideration which we have given to this portion of our inquiry.
Summary of proposed Government.
To sum up the above proposal. —The Government and Management of Lights,
Buoys, and Beacons in the United Kingdom, and of certain Lighthouses in the Colonies,
.should he vested in a new Central Board {constituted as alreadij staf.ed),and to he denomi-
nated the Trinity Commissioners for Lights, subject to the annual visitation of The
Royal Society ;— the Board ov Trade or the Admiralty to be the Department that
would present to Parliament the Lighthouse Estimates, as prepared by the Trinity Com-
missioners ; whilst, as regards expenditure, after those estimates have passed the House
OF Commons, THE CENTRAL BOARD should have the entire Control.
have been
^ * British Lighthouse System, by Sir David Brewster, LL.D., F.E.S.. Principal and "Viee-Chancellor of the
University of Edinburgh.
h 4
APPENDIX.
ELECTKIC LKillT, &C.-CHTJIZE OF THE " VIVID." -FOREIGN I"\-
SPECTIONS.-INSPECTIONS OF APPAIUTUS AT IIOAIE IND
ABROAD.-PAPEKS BY MEMBER^.-LETTERS FROM THE AS-
TROXOMER ROYAL.-PROFESSOU FARADAY"^ REPORTS.-
OBSERVATIONS BY MR. JAMES CHANCE, MESSRS. D. AND T.
STEVENSON.-ABSTRACTS OF EVIDENCE, &-c., &c.
•29tJi April IS.iP. olst Meeting.
Admiral Hamilton, Mr. (iraves, Dr. Glart.stoiie,
Captain Ryder.
Mr. Allen attended, and stated that the Magneto-
electric lifjht would not be exhibited after Monday night
at the Scuth Foreland.
At 4..'3() the Commission decided to visit the South
Foreland, and adjourned, in the first place, to Adam Street,
Adelphi, to inspect a lime light.
The light is on the same principle as Drummond's, but
varies m the shape of the prepared lime on which the
oxyhydrogen blow-pipe flame plays, and it has also
three jets instead of one. The prejiare'd lime is pushed
slowly up«-ards as it is worn away by the heat, and is
prevented from faUing outward by a series of wires.
The light was brilliant and steady. The French Super-
intendent of the Light House Board, Mons. Reneaud,
was present, and he, as well as many other gentlemen,
expressed admiration of the light.
Mr. Graves, Dr. Gladstone, Captain Ryder, and the
Secretary started from London Bridge at 8.30 p.m. Dr.
Gladstone, on arri\'ing at Dover, proceeded to the South
Foreland, while the others embarked for (Calais, and ob-
served the electric light from the steamer, (lir. Gladstone's
report follows.)
The light was far brighter than any of the others, visible
either on the French or the English coast.
It was steady. It seemed to be obscured for a time
twice during the passage, but it subsequently appeared,
from Dr. Gladstone's report, that the seeming obscuration
might, (as was suspected,) have been caused by the passage
of the steamer through the shadow of one of the bars of the
lantern. No alteration in the light was observed by
Dr. Gladstone, who was at the light house, but the shadow
of the bars were clearly visible in the air close to the light,
and must have obscured it at a distance.
P'rom Calais the electric light appeared like a large star
on the horizon, with a bluish tinge, while the lovrer South
Foreland hght, — catoptric, oil lam])s, — though clearly
^•isible was less bright, and yellow, or rather orange.
The sailors on board the steamer estimated that they
could see the electric light for 30 minutes after losing sight
of the lower Ught. That is, according to the rate of the
steamer, at a distance of about 7 miles.
They had seen it in thick weather when the other was
inA'isible.
The light at Grisnez, as seen from Dover, was about
equal to the Lower South Foreland Light, as seen from
Calais.
The electric light, at a distance of some miles, threw a
shadow which could be seen clearly on the palm of the
hand, and still more clearly on a white surface.
With respect to coloured lights, it was obser\-ed that a
blue light at Dover was lost when the common town
lamjjs became invisible ; that a white light at Calais Pier
was first seen, next a red light, and lastly a green.
With respect to the colour of hghthouses it was observed
that the lighthouse against the sky was difficult to make
out clearly, when the lower lighthouse against a dark
background of grass was easily made out ; both are white.
That the dark shadow inside the lantern, seen through the
glass of the Upper Lighthouse, was better seen than the
white wall against the sky as a background, and that the
dark part of the Lower Lighthouse at the same time was
invisible, while the white wall was clearly seen against the
grass.
I. A
It appears to follow, —
1st. That the electric light should be fully tried, and Conclusions,
that on its success should dejjend a consideration of its
application to certain points of the coast.
2d. That red and green are better colours than blue, but
that Mdiite is more powerful than any colour.
3rd. That lighthouses and beacons and buoys should be
coloured with reference to the background against which
they are seen.
'I'he Commissioners visited the vSouth Foreland Light-
house after landing at Do^-er, and were much pleased with
its condition, and with the intelligence and neatness of the
keepers.
They inspected the electric hght and the apparatus by
which it was produced. They conversed with Professor
Holmes, who explamed the working of his apparatus
And they afterwards returned to London by the 12 train.
Dr. Gladstone reported: — The principle of i^c Oljsen-atlons by
Magneto-Electric Light is as follows : — The power that Vr. Gladstone
])roduces the light is resident in a large number (360?) of
permanent magnets ranged on the periphery of two large
wheels. This power is called into action by a steam engine Engine,
of two-horse power, which causes a sesies of soft iron cores
surrounded by coils of wire to rotate past the magnets.
The small streams of electricity thus generated are collected
together into one stream, and, by a si^ecial arrangement, the
alternate positive and negative currents are all brought into
one direction. The whole jjower is then con\eyed by a stout
wire from the engine-house to the lighthouse tower, and
up into the centre of the illuminating apparatus; there it
passes between two charcoal points, ])roducing thus a
most brilHant and continuous light. The " lamp " is so
contrived that by means of clock-work and a magnet,
round which the wire coils, the charcoal points are kept
always at a proper distance ajjart. The charcoal lasts
three hours, after which the " lamj) " has to be changed,
but the transition of the current is instantaneously
effected, and the light is brought into the focus within
ten seconds. The attendant can judge of the position
and brightness of the light b}' watching where one of
the luminous beams is thrown on the inner wall of the
lantern, and thus he is seldom required to look at the
brilliant spark itself. As arranged in the centre of the
large dioptric appai-atus at the South Foreland, the electric
light gives scarcely enough di\'ergence, and dark shadows Divergence.
are cast by the framework of the ajiparatus and lantern,
notwithstanding a special contrivance of reflectors partially
to obviate this , but from the luminous point being so small. Reflectors,
and no draft of air being required, nor any soot or smoke
being produced, it is evident that an arrangement of lenses, i,gnses.
prisms, or of reflectors, might be made in a very smal
space, and perhaps the difficulty of the frame-work might
be entirely overcome. The working expense of the Magneto- (^^^f
Electric Light consists of the coals consumed, and the
charcoal points, with the wear of the machinery, and the
wages of an engineer in addition to the ordinary light-house
keepers.
At a distance of one or two hundred yards the magneto- Brilliancy,
electric light appeared incomparably more brilliant than
that exhibited by the lower lighthouse, which is fitted with
fifteen parabolic mirrors kept apparently in the highest
state of poHsh. Dr. Gladstone remarked the great clean- Comparison,
liness and order observed in the lower as well as the upper
lighthouse.
The electric light appeared of a blueish white in com-
parison with all other artificial lights in view, caused a
APPENDIX TO KEPOKT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS. AXD BEACONS :
Electric Light, remarkable fluorescence in the glass of the apparatus,
and illuminated the atmosphere in such a manner as to
produce singular optical effects, both near at hand and at a
distance.
Ohsen-ations Admiral Hamilto.n visited the South Foreland Ught-
h,,the house on the night of the 4th of May, arriving at the
Cluiirman, Ught at 9 p.m., and quitting at 11.30 p.m. Professor
Arlmiral Holmes was on the spot, and explained nunutely the prin-
Ha.mttun. ciple of the magneto-electric light, and all the details of the
npparatus. It appeared that there was the greatest facility
r >.,„ in managing the light, and that very common care was
required to insure its regular exhibition. During Admiral
Hamilton's stav at the light it was visited by a I'l'ot, an
intelligent youiig man (by name Goldsackl, who had^ had
constant opportunitv of 6bser\-ing the light from the Chan-
nel since its exhibition, and who bore strong testimony
to its great brilliancv and efficiency, and greatly re-
gretted its contemjilated removal. In this regret Adnural
Hamilton cordiaUy joins ; for it would seem to be a waste
Oiienations. ^f money now that the whole machinery is working well to
extinguish the light without a further opportunity being
afford'ed of testing its merits as compared with other lights.
Admiral Hamilton cannot but be of opinion that a fuller
opportunity and more extensive means, not only of testing
the working of the light, but of enabling mariners to judge
of its efficiency, and to make their comparisons with respect
to other lights, should be afforded. He understands that
Professor 'paradav has reported on the magneto-electric
light to the Elder Brethren of the Trinity House, and he
considers it would be right that this Commission should
request to be favoured, as early as possible, with a copy of
that report, in order that such steps may be taken as the
Conclusom Commissioners mav deem fit, with a view to a further trial
of the hght, it being reported to the Commission that it
is intended to remove the whole apparatus immediately.
Admiral Hamilton also visited the Lower South Foreland
Lighthouse, returning to Dover at 12.20 fnight). The
light (magneto-electricl was observed from Dover pier, at
12.30. Admiral Hamilton returned to tow-n next morning.
He was much struck with the cleanliness and perfect order
of the North and South Foreland bghthouses, and the
manner and inteUigcnce of the lighthouse keepers.
On the 6th of May the secretary was directed to write
toe following letter: —
s;,R^ May 6th, 1859.
I am directed to request that the Commission may
CarresponJenee. ],e furnished with a copy of the Report which has been made
by Professor Faraday on the magneto-electric Ught at the
South Foreland. The Commissioners have themselves ob-
served the Ught. 'ITiey have received returns from pilots
and others relative to it, and assuming that Professor
Faraday's report is favourable, they are anxious to be
informed of the decision of the Elder Brethren relative to
the electric light. They wish to be informed whether the
Elder Brethren contemplate adopting the principle of the
light by applying it to certain Ughthouses on saUeat points
of the coast, or whether they intend to make further trial of
the Ught by continuing to exhibit it at the South Foreland
for a further period, under the entire management of their
ou-n servants, or whether they intend that the machinery
for producing the light shall be remoxed from its present
position. I ani, &c.
J. F. Campbell.
P. H. Berthon, Esq.
On the 12th. reply of the Trinity House was read :—
Trinity House, London, E.C.,
Sir, 12th May 1S59.
Having laid before the Elder Brethren your letter
of 6th instant, signifying the request of the Commissioners
on Lights, &c., to be furnished with a copy of Professor
Faraday's Report ujion the Magneto-Electric Light at the
South Foreland, and with information as to the probable
adoption of the light by this corporation, I am directed to
acquaint you, for the' information of the Commissioners,
that not having received from Professor Holmes certain par-
ticulars which lie has been requested to furnish, and which
the Elder Brethren consider essential in the consideration
of the question as respects the practical applicabiUty of the
Ught to lighthouse purposes, they are not yet in a position
to comply with the Commissioners' request.
I am, &:c.
J. F. Campbell, Esq., P H. Berthon.
Sec. Sec, &c.
On the 8th of November the electric Ught was again
observed from Boulogne, and previously, on the 5th of
November, the Commission were present, at Paris, at cer-
tain experiments instituted by the French Lighthouse
authorities for the purpose of testing an electric Ught. See
page 38.
It was stated that the Ughthouse keepers on the French
coast had been instructed to observe the light at the South
Foreland with great attention.
An abstract of the evidence of mariners as to the South
Foreland will be found at page 1 1 4.
On the 26th of November, the following Report from
Professor Faraday to the Trinity House was received by the
Commission, and confirms their yievia expressed above.
REPORT
ox
THE MAGNETO-ELECTRIC LIGHT ESTABLISHED
BV PROFESSOR HOLMES AT THE HIGH
LIGHTHOUSE, SOUTH FORELAND.
Roval Institution,
29th April. 18.i9.
The light applied in the South Foreland Upper
Lighthouse is an electric light ; not produced, how-
ever, by a voltiiic battery, but by magneto-electric
induction. In the year 1831* it was discovered that
when a piece of soft iron, surrounded by a metallic
wire, was passed by the poles of a magnet, an electric
current was produced in the wire, which could be
exalted so as to give a spark. The apparatus of
Professor Holmes, which is figured and described in
the accompanying paper A, consists of an accumula-
tion of powerful magnets and iron cores with sur-
rounding coils, accurately arranged, so that when the
associated cores are revolving they send all their
currents into one common channel, from whence they
are conveyed to the lantborn by conducting wires,
and there produce the electric light. There is no
consumption of material or energy, other than that of
the burning fuel required at the steam-engines to
produce motion.
A trial of the ligbt began in the lighthouse on the
8th December, 1858 ; but as the apparatus was imper-
fect in some points and ihe results unsatisfactory, the
lighting by the apparatus was suspended for a while,
that the defects might, if possible, be remedied. The
lighting was renewed on the 28th March instant,
and has been continued regularly since.
I have had the honour of accompanying the deputy
master and brethren, both on the former and present
occasion, so that I know personally what the light
was and is. No report was made at the former time,
because of the expected improvement of the arrange-
ment ; but it now becomes my duty to report on such
matters regarding the lamp as properly fall within my
province.
Being on board the yaclit off Dungeness on the
night of the 20th inst., about 21 i miles from the
South Foreland, the weather being rainy and the sky
covered with clouds, we could see (when the sun went
down) the high light illuminated and appearing as a
faint star. 1 could not perceive the low light ; but
proceeding eastward the loxv light gradually became
visible, and the high light inerea.sed in brightness.
When about S.W. by 8. the yacht approached the
lights more directly ; then went eastward again, and
after awhile turned and proceeded towards Dover ;
so that the observations were made through about one-
fourth of the horizon, and at very ditferent distances
from the South Foreland. From the time the upper
ligbt was first seen until the last, it remained visible
and .</pn(/y (with the exceptions to be mentioned im-
mediately), and much superior to the lower light when
that also came in view. The exceptions were as fol-
Pro/esscr
Faradaif.
* Philosophical TraDSSctions 1832. p. 131. Faraday.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
lows : — At times the high light fell off. and once
appearetl almost out. when the lower light iinderwent
no such change. This effect had been anticipated, and
was due to tlie following cause : — the upright bars of
the lanthorn windows and the dioptric apparatus are
much broader than the electric light, the latter being,
indeed, not more than one-sixth of an inch in hori-
zontal width ; hence they throw deep and rather sharp
shadows. By taking the bearings of these before-
hand, it was found at sea, that the fiiUing off of the
light coincided with these shadows, and hence the
above exceptions. The evil occurs in part with the
central oil lamp, and is in some lighthouses partly
remedied by causing the window bars and astragals
to incline from the perpendicular, and therefore out
of the plane of refraction. Other remedies (in addi-
tion to this) are applicable in the case of the electric
light, and in the present instance the effect is lessened
by the use of a small reflector at the lamp, close to
and behind the light. ■ The light was at all times
white, or even blue occasionally, in comparison with
the low light, which appeared yellow or reddish.
The next day I examined the lighthouse and appa-
ratus both by day and night. The magneto-electric
machines, steam engines, and steam-condenser were
generally as at the last visit. In respect of the
commutator it had worn very little ; the application of
a file to the surface of one wheel had removed about
the thirteenth of an inch of metal since the apparatus
was first erected, there remaining about 1-g- inches
still ready for consumption in like manner, if needed.
During the daytime I compared the intensity of the light
with that of the sun, i.e. it was placed before and by
the side of the sun, and both looked at through dark
glasses ; its light was as bright as that of the sun,
but the sun was not at its brightest, and was only seen
at intervals between clouds.
In the lanthorn, there was now but one electric
lamp in place, two others, however, being on the wire
rails ready for change of lamp at any moment. The
magn^'to-electric machines were set in action, and the
lamps were manipulated with, both by day and night,
to my entire satisfaction. When the steam engines
were ready for action the machines could be set in
motion, and the current evolved within the space of
half a minute ; the lamp could then be lighted in an
instant, and if it were required to put out and displace
that lamp and replace it by another, the operation
could easily be performed by one person within 10 or
15 seconds. The light may be considered as at its
full intensity at once, though it was reported to me
as growing up in power until about four o'clock in
the morning, an effect probably due to the continued
recurring inductive action in the cores and coils of the
revolving apparatus.
The place of the light in respect of the dioptric
apparatus is exceedingly well retained, even more so
than in the case of a lamp flame, which, though its
base be fixed, varies in its height. The light itself
is not that flickering, wavering, revolving light pro-
duced by the voltaic battery, but, in a sheltered
atmosphere, as in the lanthorn, is fixed in its position ;
a fact of great importance in the application of small
catoptric ordioptric apparatus. Animportantregulator
of the character of the light is given by two magneto-
electric coils introduced into the circuit in tlie lanthorn.
The light does not call for continued attention, but is
often left untouched for one, two, or even three hours
together. The eyes of the keepers are not affected,
though the blue glasses provided for them are very
pale in colour, for the light is better watched by
observing the place and intensity of the rays which
fall heje and there on the walls of the lanthorn, than
by looking at the light itself.
On going out to the hills round the lighthouse, the
beauty of the light was wonderful. At a mile off the
apparent streams of light issuing from the lanthorn
were twice as long as those from the lower lighthouse,
and apparently three or four times as bright. The
horizontal plane in which they chiefly took their way
made all above or below it black. The tops of the
hills, the churches and the houses illuminated by it. Electric light,
were striking in their effect upon the eye.
All the reports which have come in from the sur-
rounding lighthouses, floating lights, and pilot vessels,
confirm the superiority of tlie upper light above the
lower, though many of the reports are imperfect.
Those from Dungenoss are the best ; and include 160
observations made between March 28th and Apri.
16th. The upper and the lower South Foreland and
the Grisnez lights were either visible or invisible
from the station, according to the weather. The
upper South Foreland was visible first and oftenest,
i. e. always if the others were ; then the Grisnez came
oftenest in sight ; and then the lower South Foreland;
but these were nearly equal. The Grisnez was some-
times in sight without the lower South Foreland,
but never without the upper ; and the lower South
Foreland was sometimes in sight without the Grisnez.
Upon the 160 observations tliere were 73 on which
none of the three lights were visible ; 86 upon which
the upper light was visible : 40 upon which the lower
light was visible, and 44 upon which the Grisnez
light was visible. When both the upper and lower
lights were visible, the upper (except in four cases) is
said to be twice the power of the lower ; in the four
cases it is called equal. There was one exception on
April 3rd at 10 o'clock p.m., when the upper light is
stated to have gone out. The report does not say
whether it came in again, but the weather at II o'clock
is returned as very thick and misty. Generally the
light is said to be very steady.
The keepers at the Goodwin and South Sand head
floating lights appear to have had a fair view of both
upper and lower lights. If both were visible, the
upper was much the most powerful ; the upper was
always visible. The lights were generally very steady;
if wavering, both the upper and lower wavered at the
same time, as if the cause were in the air, not in the
lights. The reports from the Gull Stream Light are
very poor and afford no instruction. There is no
comparison or mention of the upper aud lower liglits.
In fulfilment of this part of my duty I beg to state
that, in my opinion. Professor Holmes has practically
established the fitness and sufficiency of the magneto-
electric light fir lighthouse purposes, so far as its
nature and management are concerned. The light
produced is powerful beyond any other that I have yet
seen so applied, and in principle may be accumulated
to any degree ; its regularity in the lanthorn is great;
its management easy ; and its care there may be con-
fided to attentive keepers of the ordinary degree of
intellect and knowledge.
There are many considerations, beyond the esta-
blishment of the fitness of the light in principle and
management for lighthouse purposes, regarding its
introduction into liglithouses generally, on which I
should hesitate to speak before those who are far more
competent to judge of these matters than I am, were
it not for the encouragement which the Brethren of
the Trinity House give me, and especially as regards
this light, in respect of a letter from Professor Holmes
dated 28th April 1857, which I considered in my letter
of the 1st May. I will, therefore, venture to enumerate
some points which m-e against and others \n favour oi
the light, and of a change in the present system. In
the first place, the simplicity of the present system is
very great compared with that of the electric light
Only two keepers are required to a lighthouse, they
need possess no special knowledge, ordinary attention
is all that is necessary ; and thus failures of the light
are almost impossible. In the new .system a second
set of men will be required to attend the engines ; and
there must be amongst them one or more who under-
stand the principle and construction of the lamp in the
lanthorn, of the magneto-electric machines, the steam
engines, and the condensers below, and be able to
make effectively the repairs necessary to the apparatus;
or, as I think is more probable, a competent resident
intelligent engineer, with his stock of tools and means,
will bo required.
A2
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
In the next place, the expense of the new system
must be large, compared to that of the present system.
As oiit/it, there must be the cost of the two if not three
magneto-electric machines, with the corresponding
.«t€am engines : of the houses to contain them ; of the
cistern, condensers, and water apparatus, and supply
associated with them ; of the electric lamps in the
lighthouses, witli their connexions : and of the lodg-
ing houses for the extra men. And in respect of
current expenditure additional provision niu.^t be made
for the wagns of the extra men, with coals and such
things as are allowed them : the fuel for the engines ;
the supply of water; and the repairs required by the
wear andtear of all the apparatus. To these causes of
expense must be added the claims of the Patentee.
In the matter of expense for any given amount of
light, I may say that the letters I have already referred
to of the i28th April and 1st :May lSo7, can scarcely
be accepted as giving sulticient information. I con-
clude that by this time Professor Holmes is in a posi-
tion to give an amended statement.
Amongst partial objections it may be stated that
the light cannot be expected to apply to all light-
houses, or receive general adoption. I am not aware
how many it might be fit for: but there are evidently
some at extreme situations where it would be objec-
tionable in its present state. An objection has also
been made, of which I cannot see the force ; namely,
that the light is too bright ; that it gives a false im-
pression of the distance of the lighthouse, and that it
blinds the eyes of the mariners to the perception of the
lights on board vessels between it and them. These
objections, if they have any force, must be judged by
mariners themselves.
The points in favour of the magneto-electric light,
now that its practicability has been established, are
strong and clear in relation to the increase of light
and the advancement of lighthouses in power. In
cases where the light is from lamp flames fed by oil,
no increase of light at or near the focus or foci of the
apparatus is possible, beyond a certain degree, because
of tlie size of the flames ; but in the electric lamp any
amount of the light may be accumulated at the focus
and sent abroad, at, of course, an increased expense.
In consequence of the evolution of the light in so
limited a focal space, it may be direeled seaward,
diverging either more or less, or in a vertical or hori-
zontal direction, at pleasure, with tlie utmost facility.
The enormous shadow under the light produced by
the oil flame burner, which absorbs and renders useless
the descending rays to a very lage extent, does not
occur in the magneto-electric lamp ; all the light ]n'o-
ceeding in that direction is turned to account. The
optical part of the arrangement, wliether dioptric or
reflecting, might be very small in corapari.-on witli
those in use. It is probable that the system either of
reflectors or refractors need not be above 18 inches in
diameter, perhaiis much less, and probalily a foot
higli. Tlie glass of the lanthoi-n through which the
rays would pass would then not require to be aliove 12
inches radius, i.e. from the light. This would allow
that part of the lanthorn to be constructed of carved
plates of glass, framed above and below, and ivquiring
no opaque, intervening, shadow-making upiit'hts.
There appears no reason why such a lanthorn should
not enclose tlie electric lamp round seven-eightlis of the
horizon, and yet allow of all necessary attendance on,
.and change of the lumps. ,Such arrangements, how-
ever, could only be made when the lamp is (if ever)
perfectly established ; for they would preclude the
substitution of an oil lamp lor tlic electric lamp, if
any accident occurred to the latter.
Before concluding this report, I must bear my testi-
mony to the ]ierfect openness, candour, and honour of
Professor Holmes. He has answered every question ;
concealed no weak point ; explained every applied
principle ; given every reason for a change either in
this or that direction, during several periods of close
questioning, in a manner that was very .ngreeaVile to
one whose duty it was to search for real faults or
possible objections, in respect both of the present
time and the future.
(SiErned) >I. Faiiadat.
July 16, 1860. — The Chairman and Secretary
visited the establishment of Mr. Holmes at North
Fleet, and saw the electric light, as shown in the
regulating lamps of Monsieur Serin. The light was
extinguished and lit instantaneously at various points,
by breaking and making the contacts. The invention
appeared to work exceedingly well. Mr. Holmes
appeared to be engaged in the construction of various
forms of reflectors, and it was suggested that he would
do well to apply for advice to Sir John Herschel. It
was stated in conversation that the electric light is to
bo set up shortly at Dungeness. Mr. Holmes also
stated that Mr. Chance was engaged in constructing
a dio])tric apparatus according to calculations, fur-
nished in the first instance b}' Mr. Holmes, subse-
quently calculated by Mr. Chance. The apparatus is
intended " to throw the light where it is wanted," and
each prism and angle is to be specially ground for the
light. See jiur/e 34, and oral evidence.
Professor iVay's Electric Light.
On the 13th of May, 1859, the following minute Pro/Vwor
■was made by Dr. Gladstone : — "".'A %*'•
In the evening the Commissioners visited Professor
Way, and saw his electric light. It is produced between
a running stream of mercury and a small cup full of
the same metal ; the whole being comprised within a
stout glass cylinder, cemented into brass-work, which
screws on to the apparatus, so that the whole is her-
metically sealed, and the volatilized mercury is con-
densed again in a long tube under the cup. The
power is generated by a galvanic battery of 48 Bun-
sen's cells, which requires renewal every four hours,
and is saiil to cost L*. 6d. per hour, though were the
products economised and the nitric acid regained,
Mr. "Way believes a saving of one half might be
effected. The light is continuous, and forms a kind
of cone between the jet whence the stream of mer-
cury flows and the ctip beneath. It is intensely
brilliant, casts a greenish blue radiance on surround-
ing objects, and has a most wonderful efleet on artifi-
cial colours, its constitution evidently being widely
dift'erent from that of solar light. Professor AVay
showed that the current might be interrupted fre-
quentl)' in succession, and that the light which on
each interruption is extinguished re-kindles itself
immediately contact is again made ; and suggested
that this might be used as a method of economising
the force, of distinguishing between different light-
houses or for signalling. The Commissioners viewed
the light, not merely from Mr. Way's labor.atory and
house, No. 1.5, Welbeck Street, but also from Hinde
Street and the corner of Manchester Square, when its
great superiority over gas lights was most apparent.
This light was again shown to the secretary on the
29th of March, 1860, by Professor Way. The electric
light had been shown that day to a scientific com-
mission belonging to the War Ottice.
The light is produced in a stream of mercury flowing
through slender tubes, and connected above and below
with the poles of a powerful battery. By clockwork
the connection can be broken and remade, and the
light extinguished and relit instantaneously. It was
very powerful, and of a peculiar ash grey colour,
which ga^e a ghastly appearance to every person and
thing in the room.
The light was said to reach its greatest brilliancy
some time after the battery was filled, and to continue
steady for a considerable time. After a certain time
when the acids are saturated the light wanes.
One drawback to the light is that the force of the
electric fluid scatters the stream of mercury into
spray, and throws it against tlie glass within which
the lisht is shown.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
Manufactorij of
appuratii
Method of
testing appa-
ratus.
These drops of an opaque though fluid metal
necessarily obscure the light, and settling on the
glass interfere with its brilliancy.
When the glass is removed the mercury is changed
into vapour, and becomes highly deleterious. A port-
able form of this light was shown. A small vessel
of mercury within bronze cylinders, so constructed
that by turning the apparatus the mercury is thrown
back into the upper chamber.
Also a boot with a copper sole, intended to malic
and break the connection with a wire let into the deck
of .1 ship, and joined to tlie battery below.
Tiiis light was exhibited at Oxford, and subse-
quently as a masthead light on board a vessel in the
Solent, in July, 1860. An account of the proceed-
ings was published in the " Times."
Memoranda made by Captain Ryder
regarding a visit to the shop of Mr. Wilkins,
Long Acre, Lighthouse Lamp Maker,
June 24th, 1859.
Mr. Gkates, Dr. Gladstone, Captain Rtdkr,
the Secretarv.
Mr. Wilkins accompanied us over his shop, and we
saw the various parts of the illuminating apparatus
of different lamps.
T/ie lantern of a floatiny light under repair. — Jlr.
Wilkins stated that after seven years' wear and tear
the lanteru of a floating light requires a tliorough
overhaul. The paint is entirely burnt off the copper
in order to examine it ; the ventilators are taken out
and refitted, and the lantern is made almost as good
as new. A lantern with two such thorough repairs
will last for 21 years.
We noticed that there were three sets of orifices
for ventilation in the lantern, some nnderneath, some
on the top, and some on the side. The size of these
can be diminished at pleasure. In a gale of wind
the upper holes have to be entirely closed, otherwisi;
the lamp would be extinguished.
The reflectors are copper lined with silver, and
their sections are parabolas. We saw some reflectors
invented by Major Fitzmaurice made of chr'na or
porcelain. The inner surface was composed of plati-
num glaze ; it was very wavy, and not very bright ;
but the reflectors were comparatively very cheap,
being one quarter the price of the metal, and do not
tarnish. The set we saw were for a small light on
Major Fitzmaurice's principle, to range five miles.
We saw several lamps for floating lights ; they
hang on gimbles inside the lantern. All floating
light lamps are thus hung, and are Argand lamps.
The reflectors for floating lights last about 1.5 years.
They are not considered to be worth re-silvering,
but are broken up at the expiration of that time. The
reflectors of lighthouses have more silver on them, and
and will last for 50 years. We were shown a metal
reflector of three feet diameter for a lighthouse ; its
value was about 50/., and Mr. Wilkins considered
that for a revolving light such a reflector would be
more efficient than a 1st order dioptric light. Its
merits are to be compared with a 1st order dioptric
light at the Trinity Buoy Wharf in a (e\v days.
When the light is obliged to be very high, as at
Lundy, the reflectors are said to be slightly inclined
to the perpendicular to throw the rays downwards ;
but the pi'isms are never inclined, but are always so
adjusted in the first place as to throw the rays hori-
zontally.
The position of the prisms is carefully tested by
inspecting the direction the rays take, as shown by
the position of the end of the pencil of light on the
screen erected for the purpose, there are nu adju.-tin"
screws to the prisms. Professor Faraday inspects
the prisms, and they are moved in their beds of puttv,
if necessary ; the intended height of the lighthouse
is never taken into consideration.
Mr. Wilkins has contracts for South America and Mantifaciory o,
the United States and Russia. The Englisii metal a^puratus.
work is much preferred for its solidity and toughness.
Mr. Wilkins first said the French illuminating' appa-
ratus was cheaper, and then thought it was dearer
than the English. He obtains his glass generally
from Mr. Sautcr, or Lepautc, of Paris, or Messrs.
Chance of Birmingham.
Gas has been tried, but, in Mr. Wilkins' opinion, Ga$.
has never succeeded as a substitute for oil.
Contracts — All new lamps are contracted for as a Cuntracu.
general rule by one of the following four manufac-
turers. Chance, De Ville, Simpson, or Wilkins ; of
these Chance is the only glass maker. The contract
is always nominally open and advertised for in the
" Times." The taritf prices of these firms are exactly
and by agreement the same. There is. therefore, no
competition among them in dealing with the general
pui-chaser, and I was unable to elicit from Mr. Wil-
kins any explicit statement that could satisfy me
that even in tendering for contracts to the Lighthouse
Board there was not an understanding between the
firms. I think it will be advisable, therefore, to
ascertain the dates of the several contracts entered
into for illuminating apparatus since 1853, the names
of the contractors, their several tenders, and the
amounts paid in each case to the accepted contractor,
to enable us to inform ourselves whether it is not
probable that by a secret arrangement among them-
selves the contractors have divided the contracts, (a
proceeding which it is, of course, perfectly competent
to them to adopt if they choose,) and thus really
enjoyed a monopoly. It is worthy of note, that
although Mr. Wilkins and Mr. Chance are competing
contractors, Mr. Wilkins frequently obtains his lenses
and prisms of Mr. Chance, as he does not make glass
himself ; and Mr. Chance obtains lamps of Mr. Wil-
kins, as he does not make lamps; and that thus the
unsuccessful contractor assists his successful rival to
complete the contract.
The Irish illuminating apparatus, and, in some
instances, the Scotch also, were ordered we were
informed by the Board of Trade ; but as ageneral rule
the Scotch Board ordered their illuminating apparatus
of Milne, of Edinburgh.
Experiments have been tried to illuminate a letter
or figure, so as to enable the mariner to identify a
light at night, but they all failed, for when a long slife
10 feet by 4 inches was illuminated, it appeared
at any distance over two miles as a circular light.
Fog Signals. — We were shown a bell of 3 cwt., Fog tignals.
similar to that used at the Gunflcet, worked by
machinery. The cost was about ^^40/. Bells as
large as 12 cwt. have been made for this purpose for
the Casketts.
Mr. Wilkins has supplied six in the last four years.
A 3-cwt. bell is said to be heard at a distance of
four miles in a thick fog.
Mr. Wilkins remarked on tlie orders of the Board
of Trade, " that while that Bor.rd appeared most
" anxious to have the very best articles they were
" very desirous to obtain them at the lowest price."
Alfred P. Rvder.
The Trinity Buoy Wharf was visited on the
18th June 1859, by Admiral Hamilton,
Captain Ryder, Mr. Gladstone, and
the Secretary, and the following notes
made by Captain Ryder.
T/ie Trinity Yard and Buoy Uliarf, situate on
the mouth of the River Lea at Black wall, com-
prises a space of from two to three acres.
AVPKXDIX TO REPOKf OX LIGHTS, BUOYS. AND BEACONS:
It does not profess to be a manufacturinpr establish-
ment, but rather a depot for buoys, and of stores of
all sorts for ihe use of I'ghthouses and lightvessels.
A spare lightvessel is always at the wharf in readi-
ness to replace any lightvessel that might be driven
from her station, and for the purpose of undergoing
the periodicitl repair.
Lio^htvessels are built and repaired at Messrs.
Pilcher's yard.
The wooden buoys of the Trinity House are manu-
factured at Thos. Allen, Shuter, and Co., Dockhead,
and tlie iron buoys at Messrs. Lennox. Brown, and Co.
The average number of men in the yard (being
those on shore in their turn from the lightvessels) is
36 ; their average wages are 21. 15s. per month, and
they find their own provisions.
They are employed in receiving, storing, and issuinsr
stores, including oil, ami in ti.ansporting buoys,
manning the Trinity House yachts, &c.
The whole of the oil for the entire service of the
lighthouses and lightvessels is stored in this yard.
The average quantity in store is 2 15 tons.
BUOYS.
Btioi/ Store.
The arrangements for examining, replacing, and
repairing the buoys appeared to be very efficient.
Every buoy belonging to the Trinity l5oard, and
there are more than 8'J Buoy stations in the London
district alone, which extends from North Foreland to
Orfordness, is replaced by a spare buoy every six
months, is brought on shore, thoroughly overhauled,
repaired, and repainted ; and then kept in perfect
readiness to return to its station, either at the end of
six months or on any accident happening to its com-
panion. A large shed is full of these buoys, painted,
marked, and ready to start for their stations at a few
minutes' warning.
Classes of Buoys.
The buoys used by the Trinity Board may be
divided into two classes.
(I.) The Nun Buoj-, which is
only used to mark wrecks, is
painted green, is six feet in length
(of stave', and about eight feet in
total length, including the heads. It
shows above water about five feet,
It weighs about four or five cwt.,
and the cooperage costs about 9/. .^
N.B In the Thames, owing to the great number of
passing vessels, and their frequent collision with the
wreck buoys, beacons on the nearest shore have
been substituted, on which the position of the wreck
is indicated, and the Trinity Board are also trying
solid wooden buoys, with framework tops.
(II.) The Can Buov, used to mark channels, shoals,
&c.
No. (1) is the old can buoy, floating apex down-
wards but they generally float on their sides (the
Admiralty still adhere to this shape). Within a few
years the can buoy has been reversed by the Trinity
Board, and the chain has been secured, as in
Nos. (2), (3), (4), to the centre of the ba,se.
No. (2) is a wooden buoy, hooped inside, a sugges-
tion of Mr. Poulter, to prevent the rust from the
hoops affecting the colour of the buoy. Its base is
convex (1 in. in 12 in.) and the diameter of the base
is equal to the height of the buoy. The largest buoys
of this description are 8 feet in the stave, and about
9 feet 6 in. high. When floating, about 2 feet is
immersed, leavi-rg 7 feet 6 in. above the water. If
this buoy was reversed, only about 5 feet of it would
show above water. This buo)' was designed by
Mr. Poulter, the Superintendent of the Trinity Buoy
Wharf, but he does not claim the merit of first sug-
gesting the reversal of the can buoy.
Hooping the buoy on the inside adds very con-
siderably to the expense of the buoy.
A Poulter's buoy, 8 feet stave hooped on the inside,
co.sts, for cooperage, 40/. ; if made on the old plan,
18/ ; a buoy 6 feet in stave, 16/.
As there were a large
number of old can buoys
in store (see Fig. 1), Mr.
Poulter has enabled them
to float upright when re-
versed, notwithstanding
their deficiency in breadth
of base, by attaching to
the base an iron span, and
they now answer very well;
but all new buoys are
made on the new principle.
No. (3) is a sketch of Herbert's buoy, made of iron
and sufficiently hollow in the base to allow of the
chain being attached at about the centre of gravity of
the buoy. This buoy is reported to ride very well in
exposed situations, tide ways, &c., and to float very
upright. There are two or three in the London dis-
trict ; but there is at present no intention of more
extensively using them, and ]SIr. Poulter does not
admit their claim to any superior advantages over his
buoys, or over
No. (4), Lennox's buoy, also made of iron, and with
a flat base.
Some very large buoys, 12 feet long, have been
made by Mr. Lennox, but they have been found very
inconvenient to transport, owing to their size and
shape ; the Trinity steamers always tow them to their
stations, the other buoys they carry on board.
Objections to Iron Buoys.
An objection to all iron buoys is, that hitherto it
has been found impossible to prevent them from rust-
ing, and becoming liable to be mistaken for red buoys,
whatever their original colour may have been.
They are also more liable to accidents from colli-
sions, being easily stove.
The wooden buoj's are made of wainscot oak, as fir
soon absorbs water.
Mr. Lennox claims for the iron buoys that their
repairs are, taking one j'ear with another, less expen-
sive than wooden buoys.
Buoy Districts.
England is divided into eight Buoy districts. The
Trinity Buoy Wharf supplies all the districts with
new buovs, and for this purpose alw.iys has a store on
hand painted with the first coat of priming ; but each
district has charge of its own reserve set of buoys.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
Buoy Chaivs.
The wooden buoys are made at Shooter's, the Dock-
head, Bhickwall. They have H chain, and generally
have cables, whose length is equal to twice the depth
of water ; they ride to square iron sinkers.
Buoy Anchors.
Hollow sinkers are being
tried, so as to add the effect
of suction to the weight of
the sinkers.
System of Buoyage.
Mr. Poulter was of opinion that no system of indi-
cating the side of the channel on which a buoy was
placed, by any peculiarity in ihe buoy, as to its form
or colour, would be practicable in the Thames, owing
to the great number and intricacy of the channels.
LIGHTVESSELS.
The lightvessels remain on their stations seven
years, and are then brought in and receive a thorough
repair.
Cables.
Their cables are changed every four years, and the
old chains (Hin.) are converted into chains for the
buoys.
Crews.
The crews have no other occupations than their
professional duties. Libraries are supplied to each
ship.
The crew consists of eleven, of whom four come on
shore every month for a month, and are employed in
the storehouses at the buoy wharf.
The master and mate are in command month and
month about.
Only good seamen are entered by Mr. Poulter.
£. s. d.
As lightraen they receive - 2 15 0 a month.
When advanced to lamp lighters 3 0 6 „
A carpenter receives - - 3 12 0 „
The mate • - -400,,
The master - - - 5 0 0 „
and lOZ. a year for house rent.
Provisions.
They all find their own provisions, but are allowed
to corn their beef at the wharf.
Beer and Spirits.
They are allowed beer but no spirits. No boats
are allowed to go alongside the lightvessels, and the
men are not allowed to board any passing ship.
Promotion.
The men rise by seniority from the lowest rank to
that of master.
Spare Stores.
Spare stores for the lightvessels are always kept in
perfect readiness, so that they can be sent off instantly
when required.
Oil, — how tested.
The oil is carefully tested, first at the Trinity
House, samples being taken from each cask. When
the oil reaches the wharf it is again tested, one
sample of each cask being preserved in case of future
complaints, and another tested by burning. Nine Ar-
gand lamps of the same size are lit, eight having been
trimmed with last year's oil, and one with the sample.
At the end of some hours the lamps, still burning,
are carefully inspected by Mr. Poulter, who is in
ignorance as to which of the nine lamps is trimmed
with the new oil, to see if he can discover any dif-
ference. He states that in his experience, owing to
the previous very careful testing at the Trinity j-, ■ ■. p
House, he has never discovered any ditlerence. The Wharf
oil used is the best rape seed oil. About 215 tons is
required every year for the supply of the Trinity
House.
Cables, — how tested.
The li-inch cables for the lightvessels are tested
with great care, as follows : —
They are made in Wales, of the best iron, and
before being received at the wharf are exposed to a
strain of 80 tons. Whde exposed to this strain they
are carefully inspected by Mr. Poulton, to see if there
is the slightest symptom of weakness, or permanent
alteration in length. The strain is then lessened to
30 tons, and every link is repeatedly struck with
heavy sledge hammers. Having stood this test,
Mr. Poulter selects a link haphazard in ea;!h lenn-th
of 15 fathoms. This link is cut out and submitted to
every possible strain by blows, so as to discover if
possible any weakness in the welding or in the con-
stitution of the iron. It is then tallied, registered,
and hung up for fulure reference in case of any acci-
dent to the chain of which it formed a part. A new
link is sent for from Wales, and the length is stored
for use. The chains are very rarely known to have
parted. Each vessel has 208 fathoms. She has also
a spare anchor and chain.
Anchors.
She rides at her station to a mushroom anchor, and
the cable is hove in or veered according to the
weather.
Spare Lightvessel.
The lightvessels are nine in number in the London
district. There is only one spare lightvessel, which
is substituted for any vessel under repair. As the
repairs are sometimes very extensive, it might of
course occur that the spai-e lightvessel being away, an
accident to one of the lightvessels would find the
Trinity Board unprepared to replace her, but under
such circumstances the spare lightvessel at Yarmouth
would be sent for.
Paint.
The lightvessels are painted red. Experience
proves that one third Venetian and two thirds red
lead are the best proportions for making the red
paint.
Balls.
The balls which serve to dis-
tinguish lightvessels from others
during the day, are made of
wood, hollow and open. The
straps of wood of which they
are composed being painted red.
They are in two pai'ts. A col-
lapsing ball made of wood and
canvas is always supplied as a
substitute in case of accident.
A 4
APPENDIX TO KEPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AXD BEACONS :
Lujhthouse Lantern for Experiments.
\ room at the top of the buildings at the buoy
wharf is fitted up as the Liatern of lighthouse and
a Lir"-a revolving frame work is placed thers. A\ hen
any Sew description of light or lamp is to be expe-
rimented on, a Committee of the Elder Brethren pro-
ceed to a distance of some miles to study and compare
the proposed lights or lamps with some other by
which its merits are to be tested, and which is also
attached to the frame. At stated and pre-arranged
intervals the frame work is moved, and the required
comparison instituted.
Alfred P. Ryder.
CRUIZE OF THE " VIVID."
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS
JIADK BT THE COMMISSIONERS
0\ LIGHTS &e UNDER THE MANACxEMENT OF THE THREE GENERAL
LIGHTHOUSE AUTHORITIES, i:c.
July 4th. —The Commission proceeded to Ports-
mouth.
July .^th.— The Commissioners met at 9 a.m. at
the admiral's office in the dockyard, made some inspec-
tions examined some witnesses, and subsequently em-
barked on board the " Vivid," and got under weigh
at sunset. Admiral Hamilton and Mr. Gladstone
previously communicated with the Queen's liar-
bour master and one of the Queen's pilots relative to
buoyage and the mariners' questions. They did not
appear to be acquainted with the new buoy adopted
by the Trinity House, and described in Captain
Kyder's MinutJ as Poulter's buoy ; and they admitted
that from description it must be preferable to the
old-fashioned buovs now used at Portsmouth.
Dr. Gladstone "visited the lighthouse at Southsea
and made the following report : —
No l.-The SOUTH SEA CASTLE lighthouse
shows a red light down the channel by which I'orts-
mouth isentered. and a green light over the Swash way.
It belon'--' to the Admiralty. {See return furnished
bii the Admiralty.) Some years ago it was con-
fessedly a very poor light, and could scarcely be
distinguished from the ga^ lamps at Southsea ; so it
was bri<rhtened, and the present dioptric arrangement
was adopted. The lenses and prisms are good, but the
green "lass is verv dull, and the red glass streaky lu
the mo'st important part. As the light is wanted lor
only a quarter of the circle (or less), and there is no
reflector behind the lamp, by far the greatest portion
of the li-rht is lost. The lamp also smokes to such .an
extent that the keeper thinks it necessary to wipe the
n-lass of the lantern several times every night, lill
he came (two years ago), there was no means of clcaii-
in<T the outside panes, although tbe spray frequently
dashes a-ainst them ; but he had them swung on a
pivot so as to bring the outer side within his reach.
Sperm oil is burnt, sometimes so thick that it will
scarcely flow, sometimes as thin as wine, and in the
winler'it occasionally freezes in the pipe of the lamp,
so that the keeper is obliged to poke a passage with a
hot wire. He believes that before his time it w.as
sometimes allowed to freeze completely. There is
but one kee-er, who, however, is sometimes relieved
in his duties by his wife. He complains that during
the two vears he has been in the lighthouse he has
bad but one oflicial visit from any superior. .
The members of the Commission who visited the
buoy wharf at Portsmouth Dockyard, reported as
" The'' buoys are made of fir, and the very evident
line of flotation, as shown by the barnacles, appeared
to indicate that they float very deep. Wc wtre in-
formed that thev not unfrequeutly leak. Ihe* buoys
were all conical, and fitted to float apex down. Buoys
thus fitted cannot watch as well as those of the
London district, which float base down. We saw an
iron Herbert buoy which was lying unused on the
wharf; it was reported to us as having watched well
at the Prince's Shoal. No reason for bringing it in
was given.
The Commissioners remarked that the liglit_ a'
South Sea was dim as they passed in the "Vivid"
on leaving Portsmouth Harbour soon after sunset.
2. THE WARNER.— No. 26. Vol. II. l-':2.
The Warner light was just lighted, and began to
revolve soon after the vessel was passed.
3. THE NAB, or BEMBRIDGE— No. 27. Vol. 11. 123.
The Commissioners boarded tlie '• Nab "' lightvessel
at 9 p.m. and remained on board three quarters of an
hour. They were informed that the vessel had been
adrift three times during the last 20 years. (The
master on shore was afterwards examined at Cowes,
and stated that a gong is heard best to leeward, and
a bell to windward; but guns are best. Cannot hear
a gong to windward in a fog more than a quarter ot
a mile. Has been three times adrift in 44 years ;
but chains are much better of late years. Thinks a
fine bow would be preferable to bluft' bow for riding
in a heavy sea. An old lightvessel with a fine bow
was the best ho ever was in. He has known light-
vessels to roll from 35= to 40° broadside to sea. The
Trinity Board gave orders for the measurement to be
made, but did not supply pendulums.) The crew
had just been relieved, but the vessel appeared
to be in excellent order. The log was inspected, and
the thunderstorm of S.aturday and the weather oi
this day were found to be correctly entered. The
a-'ent of the Trinity House visits the vessel once a
inouth. The gonu' of the Warner, distant three miles,
has been heard ; \he light of the Owers, distant 14
miles, has been seen from this vessel. The reflectors
were in very good order generally, but some were
observed to be worn in places and scratched in others.
The mate in cliarse was told that the Commission
were pleased with the condition of his vessel.
4. THE OWERS LIGHTVESSEL.-No. 24. Vol. 11. 121.
Wis si-rhted at an estimated distance of ten
miles the night being fine, but not peculiarly clear.
It is marked in the list of lights as visible at that
distance. Boarded the vessel ; found the master and
the watch (two) on deck. The light in order. Ihe
ma-ter stated that his father had been on board tins
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
floating light for 58 years ; he liimself had been on
board tor 42, during ■\vhich time the vessel had been
adrift only once. Seven witnesses of the first 500
state their knowledge of the fact that the Owers had
been adrift. In bad weather the vessel occasionally
rides so heavily that the master "cannot lie on the
floor of his cabin without holding on to the legs of
the table." He has sometimes 195 fathom of cable
out. He considers his station to be one of the most
exposed ; but the Seven Stones is still worse. Re-
flectors clean, but scratched in places.
The master considers that a vessel built in the
shape of a square box with fine ends would ride
easier than vessels of the present build, which slope
outwards amidships, and suffer when riding across
the run of the sea in the tide.
On leaving the Owers the Vivid stood in to sight
Littlehampton. {See /he report on the Fort of
Arundel.)
The course was then shaped to sight
5. BEACHY HEAD.— No. 33.
Which should be visible at 22 miles, (catoptric,
revolving). Sighted it at 25 miles, not far from
Shorcham. The Owers light and the town lights of
Brighton and Shoreham being .'dl visible at once.
Tlie day beginning to dawn,
f On the 25th of August, at about 5 p.m. this light-
house was visited by Dr. Gladstone. It is a first-
class establishment, in excellent order. There are
30 reflectors, old, but bright, arranged on three faces.
They revolve once in six minutes, so that there are
intervals of two minutes between the flashes, with
14 seconds of darkness. The keeper (who has been
there for 12 years, and was born in the service),
complains of insufficient ventilation, though there is
a metal chimney over each lam]). Fogs are very com-
mon. Stones are sometimes blown up against the
lantern, and make holes in the plate glass, some of
which were pointed out by the keeper.
Tiie light at Shoreham is often seen distinctly,
though 23 miles distant, fixed, and a harbour light
under a local authority {see report on Slioreham).
The light at Beachy Head i:5 seen plainly from
AYorthing, 27 miles distant, wlien the weather is
clear and the cliff not enveloped in clouds, but this
seems the exception rather than the rule. AVhcn
very clear, the light at its maximum about equals
that of a second magnitude star, but looks red in
comparison with any of the fixed stars. It is visible
for only about 20 seconds ; yet, through the telescope
of the refraction goniometer a feebler light could bo
discovered during the greater part of the revolution,
perhaps H min. Red, orange, yellov,% and green rays
are alone transmitted, the blue and violet being wholly
absoi'bed by the intervening atmosphere. The ex-
treme red ray also could not be detected, so that no
light whatever was seen through Cobalt glass. The
green rays were very dull ; and evidently the portion
of the spectrum transmitted most easily, or in greatest
quantity was the orange — in all probability the part
between Fraunhofer's lines C and D. Similar ex[)eri-
ments were performed on the Beachy Head light, as
seen from Shoreham, with similar results. The atmo-
sphere exerted a simihir absorbent power on the more
refrangible rays of the light coming from the gas
lamps of Brighton, as seen from Shoreham, five or six
miles distant.
From these experiments the following conclusions
may bo drawn : —
1 . A blue light will not be seen far.
2. A green light will be seen farther, but not so
far as an orange or red liglit.
3. An orange light seen through a considerable
amount of atmosphere will have the same appearance
as a white light then assumes.
4. A red light will be seen nearly as far as a white
light, but only provided the glass does not absorb
too much of the orange rays.
Of 9 foreign lights compared with Beachy Head, 4
are said to bo better, 5 worse.
I. B
Mariner's Evidence, No. 7.
Comparison of Bkacuv Hkad with Nine Fokeign Lights.
^•
.1
Gallic.
Xaluro.
"E
3
.1
rt m
1
s
-I
^
S ?
1
Pra.nce.
*
o
^
O
1. Grisiiez
D. 1st., fixed
191,
22
35
103
5
3
2
2. Ailly - -
D. 1st., rev.
305
27
1
1
1
_
3. Fecamp
D. 1st., fixed
428
IS
1
—
1
__
•J. Le Hcve
D. 1st., fixed
397
20
7
1
1
_
5. Barneur
D. 1st., rev..
238
22
12
1
1
6. La Hague
D. 1st., li.\ed
157
18
—
3
—
1
=
X
Russia, o
7. Dagerort
:- I'ixcd -
32S
22
35
1
—
1
=•
\
Ameeica.O
S. St. Paul's.Gulf
? .
140
20
30
2
1
_
of St. Lawrence.
9. MoTite Video -
?
488
25
—
1
—
1
=
1
Bcacliy Head -
C, 1st, rev. -
185
22
32
51
10
8
~
~
Total - -
18
Cruize of the
Vivid.
Comparison
ifith foreiyn
liylUs.
Of 18 comparisons, 10 are for Beachy Head, 8
against.
The result is therefore favourable to the British
light, though it is catoptric, and compared with the
best dioptric lights in France.
At about 2 a.m., July 5tli, the '" Vivid " altered
course for the Isle of Wight ; weather fine, calm,
and clear. Of the seven lights seen two only were
dim, viz., Southsea and Littlehampton, neither of
which are under the Trinity House. The other four
appeared to be efficient and fully equal to the account
given of them in the list of lights. It was remarked,
however, that in certain positions the two lights of
the Nab might appear as one, and occasion mistakes.
Wednesday July 6th. — At an early hour the
" Vivid," was oli' Cowes. Captain Ryder anil jMr.
Graves landed and questioned several persons.
Mr. Spain, Commander of Pilots, can make no Oral evidence,
suggestion as to im]iroving buoys or lights ; would
have an inditic'rent opinion of any pilot who found
any fault, " everythiiirj under nianageinent of Triniti/
heing so perfect." Pilots pay '2.1. 2s. every year to
Trinity Board for licence, and are, therefore, quite
in power of Trinity Board, who can remove license
without a])peal.
Mr. Willis, Trinity Agent, over Cowes Beachy Head
to Portland. Has 7 buoys and 4 lights floating, and
several ligiithouses and a cutter tender. Reward
to independent parties for bringing in a drifted buoy,
2/. 2s. Masters of light vessels have \s. 6d. a day to
find men in provisions ; no complaint was heard.
Superannuation of masters when worn out, 55/. a year.
Active pay 51. a montli : 20/. in house rent and
Is. 6d. a da}' for provisions, not more than sufficient
to pay fcr the requisite provisions.
The Commission proceeded to Southampton (see Vol. H. 35P,
report on that place), and, after coaling, steamed to
Bournmouth, anchored, and observed the lights on
the Needles and in Poole Harbour (see separate
report on Poole).
G. NEEDLES.— No. 35.
This light was visited by the Secretary on tho
25 th of August. It is of grey granite, almost of the
same colour as the chalk rock. It is built on the
outermost Needle rock, which has been cut away so
as to make a foundation and a platform ; cellars and
storehouses are also cut out of the rock. The keeper
states, that the waves seldom break high about the
tower, and there arc few days on wiiich a boat can-
not approach the landing-place. The illuminating
appp.ratus is dioptric, and the light red. The colour
is produced by surrounding the lamp with a screen
of red glass, and by placing red shades outside the
lens. In parts a cylindrical reflector is placed on
the landward side, and there are clear portions to
show a white light.
The light has to traverse, 1st, the glass chimney ;
2nd, the red glass screen ; 3rd, the lens ; 4th, a red
shade ; 5th, the glass of the lantern. The light is
Slid not to bo very briaht.
Vol. ir. 8a
10
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
The establishment was in very good order, clean,
and neat. There are three keepers, as at other rock
stations ; two live at Ryde, when on leave, the third
at Freshwater.
Portions of the granite of this building can be
rubbed off with the fingers, even more than was
found to be the ease at the lighthouse on the Skerry
^Ihore. The colour of the stone of this ouilding is
that selected by duck shootei's for their punts. It is
a li^ht grey, and it cannot easily be seen, for its
colour blends with that of the sea and of the light
grey chalk rocks against whicli it is seen from the
sea. A set of observations were therefore made from
Black Gang Chine to test the effect •of various states
of the atmosphere in this particular colour as con-
trasted with others near it, including the chalk cliffs,
a patch of grass almost yellow, but the darkest object
near. Is it on the cliff near the old lighthouse, and of
about the same size as the Outt'- Needle rock.
The rock on which the lighthouse stands, and the
lighthouse itself, were observed at 9 a.m. every morn-
ing for a period of 65 days, and the most distant
points visible along the coast were noted at the same
time, as well as the general state of the light and
atmosphere. In the morning the sun is behind an
observer at Black Gang Chine, who is looking towards
the lighthouse at the Needles, and consequently the
building and cliffs there receive nearly the max-
imum of light, while the sea reflects the minimum.
Still, even under the^e the most favourable condi-
tions, there were 19 days on which the lighthouse
was invisible at 14 miles, though the rocks on which
it stands aud more distant points were seen. The
green patch beside the rocks, and of the same appa-
rent size .as the smallest of them, was seen twice
when both rocks and lighthouse were invisible.
On both occasions the weather wa? sunnv and haz}',
and Bournmouth, about 10 miles beyond the lighthouse,
and the green patch close to it, were sometimes
seen, though the building and the rocks lower down
were both invioible. On 710 occasion was the light-
coloured building seen and the darker grass patch
invisible ; but on seven bright hazy days the light-
coloured rocks were seen through the haze when the
grass could not be made out. On one occasion Port-
land Bill, distant 45 miles, was seen, and the lif;ht-
house and the grass patch, at 14 miles, were both
invisible, while the rocks could be distinguished.
That d.ay is marked sunny and clear, and the chalk
rocks shining in the sun probably showed through a
partial land fog. On the whah; the result of the
observations goes to .show that lighthouses, if they
are intended to be seen during the day, should be
coloured with reference to the back ground, and that
those buildings which are projected against the sea
or sky, or against white rocks, should be coloured
Dakk. {See Table next column.')
The observations do but confirm the positive testi-
mony of 657 mariners who, in reply to Question 1",
name the colour which they see best on the water at
night. Of these, 502 name Black or Dark, 29 Red,
and of the remaining minority of 82, only 62 say
White.
August 1860. — Subsequent observations have fully
confirmed these. The lighthouse and the rock en
which it stands, seen against the sea, are often in-
visible when the land at Bournmouth seen over the
lighthouse is visible, and the dark patch of grass
seen against the sky is also visible. On the evening
of the 14th, — though Portland, distant 40 miles, and
ships on the horizon could be seen with the naked
eye, and Bournmouth and tho Needles Point were
both free from haze, — the rocis and the lighthouse
could not be distinguished from the background of
sea. It follows that the colour of the back ground
should be considered. ( Observations from the 4th
August to the 10th 0/ October confirm these.)
Obsen'ations taken at 9 a.m. on 65 days from Black Gang
Chine, near the Preventive Station. The Points visible
are shown by ; Points invisible by Blanks.
Lighthouse, Outer Rock.Xeedlcs Point, Grass Patch. Bourn-
mouth, as seen Ihroucrh teloscope.
M
« ^
N 0
IS
1
1
1
s
1
1
General Condition
of the Light
5°
§
<
1
1
g
5
1
and .Vtmo^phere.
11
II
11
s
;^ 1 M
0
6
pa
l.")
.Sunny Hazy
Ifi
—
—
! Sutiny Hazy
. .
—
17
—
—
Grey Clear
IS
Grey Hazy
li)
—
. —
Sunny Verj- clear
■ '
20
- —
Sunny Hazy
21
—
Grey Hazy
. .
22
—
Sunny Hazy
2.%
—
Sunny Hazy
•2i
—
Sunny Ha/.y
2j
—
Grey Clear
—
26
Grey Very hazy
27
Sunny Very hazy
28
— —
Sunny Clear
— —
— —
29
— —
Sunny Clear
—
30
- — —
Sunny Clear
SI
— —
Sunny Cie.ar Blow-
Sep.
ing hard
1
— —
Grey Hazy
- — _
2
— —
Grey Clear
—
3
—
Sunny Hazy
.
_
4
— —
Grey Clear Hazy
in the distance
5
—
Sunny Hazy
Grey Hazy
7
—
Sunny Clear
—
8
— —
Grey Clear
—
—
—
9
3 ^°u^"
}
Grey Clear
10
Sunny Foggy
—
—
11
.
— —
Sunny Clear
—
12
—
—
Sunny Clear
—
13
—
—
Siuniy Clear
—
14
—
—
Sunny Clear
—
15
— -
—
—
Sunny Clear
1«
—
Sunny Hazy
—
17
.
—
Sunny Hazy
18
—
—
i Suimy Clear
' :
19
.
—
; Sunny Ealherhaz?'
_
—
(
Cliff
")
20
-]
Bourn
Sunny Rather hazy
21
Cliff 1 \
Grey Bainy
22
Grey Eainy
2.'5
Thick
24
—
Sunny Clear
20
—
Grey Foggy
28
— i
Clifl- )
Grey Fogg}-
27
2<
— 1' —
Sunny Hazy
—
— —
zz
1
Sunny Hazy
t —
30
liaiii Tl.iek
1
(Jet
t
i n:nn an,I fog
i
2
—
—
j Grey Clear
. — _ 1
.1
— 1 - —
1 Sunny Hazy
. [
4
5
— i —
Sunnv Pazv
Suiuiv Hazy
Suiiin Wry hazy
1
7
<;ri\ A'crv^iazv'
1 Miiiny Clear
9
Miniiy Uazy
10
, Grey Clear
11
Cliff 1 ToKgy
1
12
1 I 1 r.rey Hr.7.y
l.-i
1 , 1 Sunny Cleari&h
'
14
cmr 1 1 Urey Ha?.y
1
15
' Grey rociry
Hi
- —
Greyish Clear
17
.. ■
1 Sunny Olep.r
—
IS
- —
Grey Cleavish
63
61
52
29
43 1 46 27
PERSONAL OBSERVATIOKS MA
ii'sj of the Atmosphere nt 9 A
I860.— AUL'UH.
.M. 1
9 A.M.
Visibility
1
I 1^ "djirk,"" lieht," Ac, nnlerthe
i, . . ■• I'ortUn.i/Vtc-nlinateth'itthe 1
til" a grey l
Lighthouse Color-
|i
i. ; ■ , c» tuM d-rkor lii;ht aijaiadt
tue
een against
g
l>.ick LTP-unj.
General Coadition of the
the sea.
o
7
s
1
^ II. Bi
1 ^ «
i
1
^
Light and Atmosphere
•A
32 !.= » ;|||
a ' 1 i
■? ! t a
T
s
a
1
a
1
S
a
at » A.M.
1
11 :N \'3\
" i i i
1
1
<
i
3
1? It 'is i|s|
fi
'A
s
s
U |5 Is l!|lS
^ 1
o
Clear - - _ -
llaza - . - -
5 ! —
— —
0
Clear - - - - -
Clear - - - -
Fog -
2
R ' i!ni
o
o
o o
Clear - - - -
Very clear - - - -
11 1 —
Haze
Ha'e, pun shining
I'i 1 -•-
—
0
Clear grey, showery
dark
dark
o
iebt
11 i.litik
dark
dark
dark
dark
dark
Clear air, mist on the hills,
sun shining on the Needles.
dark
white
yhite
dark
Ij |-' .I.ii-k
<
dark
dark
dark
dark
dark
Clear air. cloudy, yellowish
gre.7^ clonds thin, sun
shining.
dark
light
°
dark
grey.
.■Cntl: o
0
o
0
0
0
Very thick mist, raining,
o
o
0
o
grey.
In ' .l.irS
dark
dark
white
white
Haze - - - -
dark
white
light
17 .l.irk
.lark
dark
white
white
o
Clear, sun shining -
Mi.t, raining hard -
dark
white
white
light
IS
dar> dark
0
13 il.irk 1 dark
white! o
o
Mist, grey - - -
dark
light
o
JO
dark dark
lightwhite
o
Grey, raining, sim shining
on the Needles.
dark
white
o light
1
1
51
lisht ! light
light O
0
Clear, sun staining
dark
white
wbitci light
22
Very thick mist, raining -
21
i?rey grey
white light
Very clear, s n shining -
dark
white
whitei light
21
Mist, wind and rain
o 1 o
!o
0 o
0 1 0
0
Thick mist, raining hard -
0
o
o
2:i
dark dark
li=ht light
Very clear, sun shining
dark
white
white
light
S7
dark dark
lulit livht
o
Clear - - -
dark
white
light
23
dark .l:irk
l,,.',t li-ht
Verv clear
dark
white
light
20
dark Hark
light light
o
Haze - - -
white
SO
linht lii;ht
light 0
H UL-, sun shining -
white
»1
lisht liglit
lighl| light
0
Clear - - _
dark
white
light
■S-'pt.
lislit licht
Ught light
0
Very clear, sun shining -
dark
white
white
Ught
li^ht liLlht
light 0
Haze - - - -
dark
white
•^
liglit light
light a
0
Hate - - - -
dark
white
white
o
^
o
o o
0
Ilaxe - - _
0
0
0 ;
Haze, sun shining -
f. —
0
O 0
o
Grey, mtsty - - -
0
o
p
o
Grey, mUty
f
Thick mist - - -
O ' 0
Fug and rain - - -
' ill in;
dark 1 dark
white, o
0
Grey haze - - -
dark
light
o
o
11 —
dark dark
white licht
o
Clear, sun shining
dark
white
whit-
light
dark dark
white 1 hght
Very clear, sunny
dark
white
white
light
1:1
ligM lisht
ivhite light
Very clear, sun shining -
dark
white
white
liglit
U '
dark li?ht
white light
o
Clear, sunny
dark
white
■vhite
light
li
dark [ dark
light light
0
Clear, sun shining on the
Keedles.
Grey - - -
dark
white
ft hite
light
J,;
light ! dark
light Ught
0
dark
white
0
light
ir
dark
dark
Misty - - - -
IK
dark
o
o 1 0
0
Misty - - -
0
o
o
o
Mist (thick), raining
21
lig t
light
light
Very clear, sun shining -
21
light
light
light' light
o
Clear, sun shining -
dark
white
white
light
22
Thick mist
a:
dark
dark
white Iwbite
Very clear - - -
dark
white
2; -
dark
dark
light I 0
o
Hazy - - -
dark
light
o
o
Mist - - -
dark
i;:
i;ght
light
while light
o
Very clear, sun shining -
dark
white
white
Ught
Ji,;lit
dark
light light
I«
Cle*r, sunny
dark white
white
light
2.
Hark
dark
Misty - - -
;:2ht
liaht
Grey
dark o
51 ^^^
Ocr.
. 1
.ijbt light
o
o
Suu shining, haze
o
o
IL'ht
dark
white,' o
0
Grey - . .
dark white
u
o
li,-ht
liglit
light light
0
Clpar, sunny - - _
dark 'iwbit.3
white
light
dark
dark
Mi-t - - .
4
li-'ht
light
winle light
Haze - - -
I dark
white
whit
S
.i;irk 1 dark
while 0
1 o
Haze - - _ -
dark
white
1 Ught
li_-ht liBht
whitei o
Clar, sun shining -
dark
white
; wbit
-
d.irk dark
white light
o
Very clear - - -
! dark
white
li;.°ht
li-ht light
whilel light
, Clear - - -
jwhitc' — ^ —
ii lisht , .iiht
.white light
o
Very clear, sun sliining -
1
white
white light
10 "i;»rk dark
light o
o
Grey - - _
{ dark
white
_^L^
IV!
05 68
51 87
3
1
1 50
49
25 1 so
Wih. Portland seen in th
:>. Tae -ark line of tbe i
eLishtUiuye wa.-; invisitile and
eveuiu?. and the Liglithouse telii
I weed at hiyh water mark elearl.
dinelj- clear ; ships £
Vol. II. 84.
Vol. I:
Vol. i
Co!r.<,r r.
luiLii; .
n
The following is taken from the Mariners' Evidence, Cruhe of tlic
Qutistion 7. Vivid.
July 7th, Thursday. — Steamed past Weymouth and
Portland, passed and signalled the fleet cruizing; passed
7. THE START.— No. 44.
The Commissioners remarked that a dark stripe on
the lighthouse, when seen against the sky, might make
it more easily distinguished and more visible.
Of 13 lights oompared with the Start, 8 are said
to be better, 5 worse.
Of 17 comparisons, 7 are for the Start, 10 against.
The result is therefore unfavourable to the British
light oa the whole, though it is said to be better than
Grisnez, which is the favourite French light amongst
mariners. (^For further observations on the Start and
Grisnez, see p. 46, 49, 51,)
CoMPABisoN of the Start with Foreion Lights.
Name.
Nature.
i
1
1
55
a
1
o
i
■i"
*
n
*
n
1. Grisnez
D. 1st., fixed
19-1
22
3.-1
108
3
2. Le Heve
U. 1st., fixed
397
20
7
3. Barfleur
U. 1st., rev. -
236
22
—
4. La Hajnie -
D. 1st., fixed
157
18
3
_
1
8. Cape St. Vin-
C. 1st., rev. -
221
.30
13
_
cent.
6. Gf uoa
? Rev.
37tl
24
8
_
_
1
7. Berlingas
C. 1st., rev. -
36.5
2
1
1
8. PorqueroUes
D. 1st., flash
262
20
_
1
1
9. Moro, Havana
—
—
S
_
?,
111. Roea Lisbon
C. Sd., rev. -
598
30
— .
(?)
1
1
11. Bayona
D. 2d., rev. -
6113
20
30
3
1
1
12. Gibraltar -
D. 1st., fixed
150
15
1
1
1
13. Alexandria -
? Fixed -
180
20
—
1
1
=
1
—
Start*
D. 1st., flash
20i
19
18
47
7
10
-
~
Total - -
17
S
Comparistin
with fui fiyn
liylds.
Landed at the
8. EDDrSTOXE_No.48.
Vol. II. 88.
at low water, and inspected the establishment, which
appeared to be in excellent order. The keeper stated
that the lighthouse was painted once in three or four
years. It appeared to the Commissioners that this
should be done more frequentl}', as the paint to sea-
ward was damaged though laid on this year ; it was
stated that in heavy weather the seas run up the side
of the house, and break right over the top " in tons ;"
on these occasions they are obliged to put in dead
lights. The house is coloured red and white in Colour oj
horizontal bands, instead of white as formerly. The f"'ild'«9-
change has been remarked with approval by several
witnesses ; see evidence.
It appeared to the Commissioners that some kind
of fog signal should be used ; that the keepers
should have some means of signalling ; and that they
should have some kind of boat, however small, such
as an Indian rubber boat, which could be folded up
and kept inside in case of such an accident as a man
falling off the rocks in fine weather. The ventilation
appeared defective, as the lantern was very hot and
close. It was stated that the Elder Drethren of the See page 1-'.
Trinity House had not been able to land for 3 years.
The light was .subsequently observed at 11.30 when
steaming westward from Plymouth, it was tested
through the dark prism at a distance of 13 miles,
and showed "41 ; in another observation made ^"^^'""'y "'
by Dr. Gladstone it showed ' 55. It appeared to be •' "
nearly equal in brilliancy to the brightest star in the
Great Bear ; the sea horizon is calculated at 9 miles ;
the light was clearly seen as soon as the vessel was
clear of the point outside Plymouth at ^ past 9, and
it was still visible at about ^ past 11, when its dis-
tance was estimated at upwards of 13 miles, about
which time the observations were made with the
dark prism.
Cn leaving the Eddystone, steamed in to Hamoaze,
and while the vessel was coaling the Commissiorers
landed. Two and the Secretary went in search of
Captain Detcham, the Trinity House Agent ; they
were informed at his house that he had gone to the
Eddystone.
The Commissioners remarked that the buoys in
Plymouth Harbour were much in want of paint, that
they were moored by the small end when conical,
that they were not arranged on any system of shape
or colour.
Ob.served the lishts at the end of
9. PLYiMOUTH BREAKWATER.— Xo. 47.
The red light, which appears from the list of light-
houses to be of the same size and kind as the Eddy-
B 2
Vol. II. 88.
12
APPENDIX TO UEPr.RT OX MflHTS. BrOYS. AND P.EAfOXS :
Cruize of the stone, appeared to be very feeble. At a distance of
ViviJ. 2 miles and seen at shorter distance it was faint,
' tbougli it is intended to be seen at 9 miles.
The low light, catoptric, white, was very brilliant
while the A'ivid was within its horizontal range.
The two lights showed almost as one at about two
miles, though 15 feet apart.
With the glass the 2 Plymouth lights could be
distinguished easily at that distance.
Friday, July 8th. — Anchored at Falmouth at 1-30
a.m. for fniir hours. The revolving light at
10. ST. A^•TI10NY. FALMOUTH, -No. 49.
showiu" very well. It was thought that a black
panel on the inner side of the lighthouse, where it
is .«eeu against the skv, might be an improvement.
At 5.30 a.m. steamed" westwards. Observed the
beacon on the Manacles, at the entrance to the har-
bour ; it is painted black, is h)fty, and was very
clearly seen.
Passed the Lizard. It was thought worth con-
sideration whether dark marks on these lighthouses
would not make them more visible, as the structure
is always seen against the sky. The day was bright
and clear, and ithe white buildings were seen at a
great distance, but it has been observed that white
seen against the sea or sky is not so well seen in dull
weather as darker colours. The following table
shows the result of the comparison of this light with
lights out of the United Kingdom. There is a majo-
rity of 1 in its favour in 23 comparisons with im-
portant lights. It is said to be better than nine of
these, inferior to live ; there is, therefore, a majority
of four in favour of the Lizard in a comparison with
fourteen lights.
2
,
^
g
^
Xamo.
Xatlire.
2
>
!r
a
g.
■g
'5
s
_o
%
c
■?
X
g
S
>r,
^
^
t
*
O
*
0
Bunkerque - D. 1st., rev.
Grisnez- • ' D. l-t.,nash
101
19*
24
22
10
33
2
108
1
1
2
1
2
~4
1
3
■Ushant - - 1 D. 1st., Hash
Cordouan - ; D. Isi., rev.
Berliiwas - ' C. 1st., rev.
272
207
365
18
27
30
7
5
2
13
3
^
1
1
Cape St. Yin- , C. 1st., rev.
221
30
~
Gibraltar - D. 1st., fixed
130
1.5
—
1
1
1
I
1
—
Ccuta - - D. 1st., fi.\e(l
483
2:i
2S
S
1
1
3
Camarat • | D. 1st, rev. -
Genoa - - i
Gozo - - ' rev.
■XiS
.370
21
z
1
1
1
1
Alexandria • i ? fixeil
ISO
20
-
3
1
St.P.aul's.Gulf,-)
1
1
of St. Law- 1 > —
renee. J
—
_
1
±
Havanna - ; —
~
ZL
~
Lizard* - , C. fixed
232
20
so
76
12
11
i
~
amined, and found to bt? clear. The keeper stated
that it was good, and a boatman, who was engaged
to show the best landing-place, said that the light was
" beautiful." There are three keepers always in the
house. The head keeper had previously lived at the
Eddystone, and preferred that station, though he
considers the sea to be as bad there as at the Long-
ships. In heavy weather he states that waves break
about the lantern 79 feet above high-water mark.
On one occasion the sea lifted the cowl off the top
so as to admit a grrat deal of water. Several lamps
were extinguished, and all the men were eu.'ployed
in baling out water till the tide fell.
There is a cavern under the house at the end of a /.■,
long split in the rock, and when there is a heavv sea
the°noise produced by the e.-^cape of pent-up air from
the cavern is so great that the men can hardly sleep.
It was stated that one man w-as so terrified that his
hair turned white.
When such sounds are naturally produced by the
action of the waves it seems possible to use the same
power in the same manner as a fog signal.
Near the Lizard, in a small island, is a cave which
at certain states of tide is filled by the waves.
At the extreme end of the cavern is a hole about a
foot in diameter, which opens towards the land. The
rush of air through the opening, as each wave ad-
vances from the mouth of the cave, is such as to
produce extremely loud sounds, which are heard at
o-reat distances. "Similar roaring caverns are to be
found on the west coasts of Scotland, and it seems
easy to imitate this principle on a smaller scale.
Though the weather was remarkably tine, and the
sea so'^calm that shoals of grey mullet were resting in
the lee of the rock, there was still a sufficient move-
ment in the waves to produce a very consideiable
hydraulic power, and the sea is very seldom without
a ground swell.— See Stevenson's report on the build-
ing of the Skerry Mhorc lighthouse ibr observations
taken to estimate the force of the Atlantic waves, and
the sounds produced by them in a small cavern in
the rock under that lighthouse.
The Commissioners having inspeclc<l the log,
which was properly kept, re-embarked, and steamed
west for Scillv. Observed tlie beacon on the Wolf
Rook to the eastwards, lofty, colored red, and easily
seen.
Took a pilot on board oft' Scillv, and steamed to
Vul. Il.;i5(i.
Monster Bu',ii.
Vul. II. 90.
Steamed into Mourns P.ay, and landed Dr. Glad-
stone, whose report on
11. PENZANCK
will be found under that head. I'asscd the monster
buoy on the Runnel Stone ; it was lofty and black,
and" easily seen. It is a cone moored by the base.
The buov leaned frnm the tide. This is contrary to
Mr. Poii"lter's statement, that buoys so moored lean
towards the tide. Landc-d without difficulty at
12. TIIELONGSIIIP.S.— No. 52.
The sea was calm. The hou.se is built on the top
o; a conical rook opposite to the Land's End. The
light is catoptric, 20 reflectors. These were bright
and well polished, generally in better condition than
those in the lightvcssels. This agrees with the
statement of iMr. Wilkins, the manufacturer, who
said that reflectors in lightships wear out much
sooner than those on shore. The house was being
painled. but v/as in good order. The oil was cx-
13. THE SCTLLY BISHOPS.— No. 54.
Vol. II.
Landed on the rock without difficulty, and in-
spected the lighthouse. It is built on a rock, which
ija little higher and longer than the ICddystone. The
building is masrnificent, and, perliaps, the ino.st
exposed in the world. The head keeper has been in
both Eddystone and Longships, and thinks that the
sea is worse here, though not much worse. The
spray goes over the top of the lighthouse, 1 10 feet.
The'vibration appears insignilicant as compared -with Fogi.h}iuih.
the Eddvstone. The light is dioptric, first order,
and a beautiful work. A bell, rung by machinery, is
fixed near the top. It was sounded when the vessel
left, and could scarcely be heard at the distance of a
(luarter of a mile, though the vessel was stopped on
purpose. There was a slight breeze, and the vessel
was to windward. This account of a fog signal may
be compared with the account given above of the
noise produced bv the action of the sea in caves.
The house is built of grey granite, painted white.
The paint is wearing oft", and the colour consequently
"■rev. the worst possible for being seen at sea. ^^^^^^^
On comparing the tower with the dark-coloured j_^.,^.-'
rocks about it the latter showed more distinctly
an-uinst the water and the sky. On th;s subject the
evidence of mariners as to the colour which they can
see best at night, the American and Colonial reports,
and the result of the observations made at the
Isle of Wight, may be cpnsulted. It is within the
knowledge of pers"ons who have shot wild fowl on
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE TA' COJIMISSIONERS.
l:
tlic water by day and night, that dark-coloured birds
arc most easily seen, and tliat yoiin.!; swans, wliicli
arc of a grey colour, are the most ditHcuIt to distin-
guish of all wild fowl. It is also well known that
smugglers, and coastguardmen, and duck shoolers,
who wish to conceal themselves on the water, paint
their boats, and often dress themselves, in white or
grev, which is the colour of the lighthouse on the
Sciily Bishops. The agent subsequently stated that
the eyes of the men suH'ered from the glare.
Admiral Hamilton remarked that the keepers
showed certain sliglit indications of a tendency to
scurvy. On questioning them, they stated that lliey
often had recourse to the medicine chest. They
stated that vegetables would not keep fur any lengtli
of time.
It is worthy of consideration whether some means
should not be provided for supplying the keepers at
exposed stations with preserved vegetables, lime
juice, or other anti-scorbutics.
The Commissioners were much struck with tlie
general superiority of the building as respects its
design, its material, its workmanship and finish, and
internal arrangements.
The secretary tested the liglit with the dark prism
at about 1 a.m. next morning, and made it ■ 92 at seven
miles. The boatmen said that it was a beautiful
" sharp" light. The Trinity House agent stated that
the Elder Brethren had steamed so as to compare it
with St. Agnes, and that they had seen the latter at a
greater distance. St. Agnes is considerably higher.
The "Vivid," on leaving the Bishops ran in to coal
at St. Mary's, and the Commissioners landed with
the agent of the Trinity House, Captain Tregarthen,
and with Mr. Allen, the agent of Mr. Augustus
Smith, the lord proprietor of the islands, in a boat
rowed by the men of the Seven Stones lightvessel.
The master was with them. He was of opinion that
a vessel with a bow like a steamer would ride better
than one of the present shape. In this he agrees
with the other keepers of liglitvessels who have ex-
pressed an opinion on this subject. He said that his
present vessel pitches fearfully. He had once been
thrown from the tiller over the companion by a
sudden jerk. He did not seem to think that a
circular vessel on Herbert's principle would answer,
and he staled that one of Herbert's buoys moored in
the neighbourhood of the Seven Stones had. gone
adrift.
The Commissioners rowed about three miles to
14. ST. AGNES, SCILLY.— No. 53.
and iTspected that lighthouse at 11 p.m. Mr. Graves
and Captain Ryder having mounted the stairs while
the chairman and secretary were inspecting certain
books below, found the door of the lightroom locked,
and the keeper absent. He came almost imme-
diately, and stated wh}- he had left the house, and
that he was not obliged to remain always in the
lantern.
He stated that during his experience of 21 years
the chain of the revolving apparatus had only
once broken, and was then replaced in a few minutes,
during which the frame was kept moving by hand.
There are 30 lamps and reflectors set in three tiers,
and revolving on a frame with three faces. The
reflectors were in good order, though some were
50 years old. The light .seen from a distance was
remarkably bright. The log was inspected, and the
names of the Commissioners entered in the visitor's
book. The house was very clean, and appeared to
be in good order.
The keeper said that he did not understand lens
lights, but thought reflectors better, because several
lamps might be extinguished without materially in-
terfering with the brilliancy of the light. He said,
however, that the single light of a lens light could be
easily and rapidly replaced, and it is evident that
the care and labour required about 30 different lamps
and a like number of silvered reflectors must bear no
comparison to the labour of cleaning and arranging
one lamp and dusting a glass lens.
Tl;e Commissioners descended from the lighthouse
to the beach in the dark, and returned on board at
about 1 a.m.
The Ibllowing is the result of the comparison of
this light with lights not in the United Kingdom,
abstracted from Mariners' Evidence, and shows a
majorit}- in favour of St. Agues : —
•i!z-..fthe
>id.
Naii.cs.
Xatui-p.:
•s
1
1
s
1 ; .2
1 9
O
*
Q
1. Grisnea -
D. 1st., flash
194
S5
103
1
—
1
—
2. Bcrlingas -
Cist., rev.
365
25
2
1
-
1
-
St. Agues' -
C. rev.
1S3
11!
3
2
-
2
-
4 1
3
Comparison
with foreman
liyhis.
July 9th, at lOi a.m. Steamed for the y^j jj -i^j
15. SEVEN STONES.— No. 29.
Boarded the vessel without difliculty. Some of the
men on shoi'e having stated tliat the quantity of
provisions was insuificieut for " hearty " men, and
the quality " indifferent," the Commissioners inspected
the provisions. They found them of good quality.
Bread said to be hardly sufficient for hearty men.
The men, 11, were clean and neatly dressed; the
vessel very clean, and newlj' painted. The reflectors
the best polished that liave been seen hitherto, not
a scratch to be seen. The shape of the vessel appears
slightly sharper forward than that of the others
visited. She is 18 years old. Since she has been
fitted with countersunk shackles to her chain she
has never been adrift. The vessel is provided with
guns and a gong. They sound the latter during fogs,
and fire the former when they see vessels approaching
the Stones. Foreign vessels seldom appear to notice
the signals. The mate has only seen one wreck on
the Stones. Then they saved one man with their
boat, a common one. They have two boats, but no Xi/eioa<
lifeboat. The vessel rides in 42 fathoms, and has
occasionally nearly 300 fathoms of H inch chain
out.
Though this is the most exposed vessel on the Waves.
coast the master considers that from the length of the
sea she rides easier than vessels moored in a shorter
sea. As he expressed it "she is always read}' for it,"
but still her decks are occasionally swept by the sea,
and when it strikes her forward " it is like a four-
pounder going off."
This statement may be compared with that of the
master of the Owers lightvessel (aiitr) and that of
the master of the lightvessel in the Humber (see Hull),
both of whom seem to consider a shorter sea more
dangerous.
On the 14th, at Liverpool, one of Mr. Maclvor's
captains stated, with reference to this light, that ir
was the worst he knew. He passes it constantly, but
not very near. It certainly was in very good order,
the small lamps and reflectors used on board light-
vessels, even in the best condition, cannot be
powerful.
Steamed for
16. GODREVEY.— No. 55.
Landed, and inspected the lighthouse. It is built on
a rock of considerable size, separated from the main
land. It is large enough to admit of the growth of
vegetables for tlie lightkeepers, if (bought necessary.
Numerous wild plants grow there already. The
spray ha.-i occasionally dashed against the lantern in
very heavy weather. There is room for a considera-
ble number of workmen, who, with the contractor
who built the house, were still on the island.
Vol. II. 92.
B 3
14
APPEXDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BrOTS, AXD BEACONS
Cruhe of the The light is dioptric, 1st order, 120 feet above the
Virul. sea. On luokin;,' tioin near the point where ihu light
— — is placed tlw horizon was seen nearly in the centre of
the main bands of tlie lens, and in all the prisms.
Intcrniilfhxer- -j-jig [jgiit appears therefore to be correctly placed
vatwn, direction ^^.jjjj yj^tl-rence to the lens, but it is worth considera-
o/beam. ^.^^ whetlier a reflector might not be introduced on
the landward side, so as to send those rays to seaward
■which now serve only to light up the clitf and the
narrow channi-1 inside.
It was remarked that the outer galleries were of
iron, and alrc-ady showed signs of corrosion. Some
of the small internal fittings, door handles, window
fastiniiigs, &c., were scarcely equal to a first-class
building. This li'zhthouse is much visvted. Nearly
1000 persons landed on ths island on Whit Monday,
but at this time of year it has been inaccessible for
fivt; weeks together.
The building of this new establishment has been
the subject of correspondence amongst the lighthouse
authorities. The Commissioners had procured copies,
and the following is a short account of the contents
of the parliamentary paper ordered to be printed, 8th
February 18oS, which contains the correspondence.
The first letter is dated 23d .lanuary l»o.5, and is
a formal request from the Trinitv House to the Board
of Trade for sanction to the expense necessary for
-constructing a lighthouse in a locality to be selected
by a committee of Elder Brethren.
It sends enclosures, eight in number, which are
petitions addressed to the Trinity House by persons
interested, pilots, seamen, merchants, shipowners,
fishermen, &c., he, all praying for a lighthouse to
indicate the position of the dangerous reef of rock
oalled " The Stones," near St, ives, in Cornwall.
On the 13th of July 1855, the Board of Trade
were informed that the deputy master and a com-
mittee of the Klder Brethren who had examined the
locality were unanimously of opinion that a light-
house might be advantageously erected on Godrevey
Island, and that site was recommended by the Trinity
House.
The report enclosed gives the reasons, and points
to the outer danger as the best site, though to build
a lighthouse on it would be ditticult and expensive.
On the 12th of September 1855. It is suggested
from the Board of Trade that the most northern stone
might be selected as the site of a lighthouse, and
failing that St. 1%-e's Head on shore is mentioned.
The letter is accompanied by a map, and a letter
from Commander George Williams, surveying officer
on the station.
On the 19th of September. The Elder Brethren
point out that they fully concur in the opinion that
the outer danger is the more eligible site, and that
it was the question of expense alone which prevented
them from recommending that position for their
Lordships' sanction.
On the 19th of October. The reports of the
engineers are transmitted from the Trinity House to
the Board of Trade.
On the 13lh of September. Reports of two com-
mittees of Elder Brethren are transmitted, together
with an urgent recommendation of the site proposed,
namely, the Stones. Failing that, the Committee again
reciimniend Godrevey Island.
On the 9th of October 1856. The Board of Trade
request that before sanctioning the building of the
new light, Mr. Walker, engineer to the Trinity
House, may be requested to state what would be the
diHerence in expense occasioned by the substitution
of the inner for the outer stone.
On the 27th the Elder Brethren tran.^mit a report
from their ( nginecr, and say tliat "the saving which
" may possibly be eflc'cted by the substitutioti of the
" inner for the outer site is so inconsiderable in
" amount as to prevent them from reconnncnding its
" adojition."
On the 14th November 1856. The Board of Trade,
in a communication .tddressed to the War Uepartineiit,
incjuire whether it would be possible to have the
position of a . newly built fort on St. Ives Head
changed, so as to admit of the building of a lighthouse
there, and they intimate that the building and main-
tenance of a lighthouse on the outer stones would be
attended with too great an expense.
On the 6th of November. The Trinity House
transmit memorials praying for the light, which ai'e
acknowledged on the 13th of November, with a
statement that the matter is under consideration, and
a reply expected relative to a site on Battery Point.
On the 15lh. The reply of the War Office was sent
refusing the proposed site, but ottlL'ring another on
that of the magazine, on condition that a magazine
for .50 hairels of gunpowder should be erected adjoin-
ing the battery, upon a plan to be furnished by the
War Department. Failing the site proposed, another,
having reierence to the line of fire of the guns, is
suggested.
On the 28th of November. Their Lordships de-
cline the site proposed by the War Office, as they do
not think that the tower could be placed as proposed
without being liable to injury when the guns are
fired. And,
On the 29th November. The Trinity House are
informed that the battery site being unattainable, or
dangerous from the situation of the battery, and the
outer stones, though the most eligible, too expensive,
their Lordships think that the lighthouse must be
built on Godrevej' Island, but, as strict economy should
be consulted, further plans are asked for, and it is
suggested that the establishment should not be treated
as a rock light.
On the 4th of February 1857. The Trinity House
transmit a memorial praying for the placing of a
temporary floating light, which request, on the 12tli
F^cbruary, is refused.
On the 4th March 1857. The Trinity House
forward a memorial praying for the erection of the
light on the outer stone, and for a temporary floating
light in the meantime.
In transmitting the memorial the Elder Brethren
do not i)ress their view, but they state that '• should
" their Lordships see fit to comply with the prayer
" of the memorialists, such a course would meet with
" the cordial concurrence of the Board."'
On the 9th of March. The Trinity House are
informed that as the question has been settled, and
the preparations for the erection of the lighthouse
now in progress, my Lords consider that the subject
should not be reopened.
On the 12th of April 1857. Their Lordships
approve of the plan for a stone lighthouse, and con-
sent that the establishment may be treated as a rock
station, but they recommend that tenders for the
construction of the tower be invited in the local
newspapers.
The correspondence concludes on the ISth Novem-
ber 1857, with a letter from the Board of Trade,
addressed to certain memorialists, in which it is
stateil " that it was after very full consideration
'■ decided to erect the lighthouse on (iodrevey Island,
" and the contract having been entered into for its
" erection at that place, their Lordships cannot now
" entertain the application."
The lighthouse, wiiich had been threatened in
embryo with so many dangers from fire and water,
was ultimately built where it was oiiiiinally proposed
to build it, on Godrevey Island, between Battery
Point on shore and the outer stone, which is covered
at high water, where it is inaccessible to men in bad
weather, and safe from waves.
The Lighthouse Commission having previously Ji, ,,.:,,.'
dircited their attention to this correspondence, corns;
examined the locality, and came to th<^ conclusion
that the outer stone was the best site for the light-
house. Havins; visited the Eddy.-tone and the Scilly
Bishops, the possibility of building on the outer
danger was proved, and it was equally manifest that
the danger would be best indicated by placing a light
upon it.
PERSONAL OBSERVATION'S MADE BT COMMISSIONERS.
1;
On leaving Godrevey sfenmed to
17. TREVOSE HEAD.— No. 56-57.
The lighthouses are built on a lofty promontory.
There arc two, niarked D. 1st order, the highest
204 feet above the sea. It is not compared with
foreign h'ghts by mariners in their evidence, and is
not mentioned by them, though it is considered to be
one of" the finest lights in the kingdom. Its position
out of the track of vcssr-ls running for tlie groat ports
may perhaps account for this, but a great number
of vessels were seen in the neighbourhooil. Landing
below the lighthouse appeared to bo difficult, if it
were possible, and it would have cost too much
time to land in the bay and Avalk round. After
waiting for about half an hour, looking for a landing
place, steamed ibr
18. LUNDY ISLAND.— No. 58-59.
Saw the light soon after sunset, distant aliout 15
miles ; it is intended to be seen at 30 ; and one of the
mariners who has replied to the queries circulated,
has seen it at 45, the greatest distance at which
any light, at home or abroad, has been seen by any
one of 814 witnesses.
The upper light is revolving, D. 1st order, showing
a flash every two minutes. Tlie lower Hght is
catoptric, and has nine large reflectors. It is only
visible between NNW. and WSW. The highest
light is 540 feet above the sea, and .some of the
witnesses complain tliat it is often obscured by fog
collecting about the summit of the island. The
keeper, subsequently, stated that "whenever there
" was any fog about it came his line."
Anchored at the back of tlie island, got a pilot
to show the way, and landed. The chairman. Cap-
tain Ryder, and the secretary walked up to the
lighthouse in the dark. The island is frequented by
a vast number of birds, which build in tlie rocks.
They were heard on all sides, on the water, in the
air, and on the land, screatrdng and apparently
fighting with each other. The path upwards is
steep, but it was too dark to see much of anything.
Near the lop is a house, inhabited by a gentleman's
family in summer. On arriving at the liglithouse it
was remarked that the whitewashed walls of the
dwelling house could hardly be distinguished from
the sky. The under keeper was found at his post.
The head keeper, who was off watch, was called, and
accompanied the Commission over the establishment.
It appeared to be in first-rate order. The lens was
made by Chance, Brothers, of Birmingham. The
metal fittings were ]iainfed ; those at Godrevey were
bright. This observation relates to the difficulty of
cleaning bright metal, and the danger of injuring
the angles of the prisms during the operation. There
is also the danger of injuring the polish of the lens
with the materials used for polishing brass, and the
extra care and labour does not appear to give any
corresponding advantage.
The reflectors were well poli.shed, and every part
of the establishment a model of cleanliness. The
keeper stated that the lens light was not half the
trouble of a reflecting light of equal power.
Julv 10th. On leaving th^ island at 1 a.m.,
immediately after the return of the Commission from
the lighthouse, steamed round to compare the upper
dioptric with the lower catoptric light. On com-
paring them through the dark prism from a distance
of about two miles no difference could be discovered.
When the upper light was at the brightest it appeared
to be exactly the same as the lower. The light being
540 feet above the observer, and the lenses in all
cases being made to throw a beam at right angles to
the axis round which they revolve, it is probable
that the upper light shows to greater advantage at a
greater distance nearer to the sea horizon, which was
calculated to be distant 25 miles from the light.
That these lenses are so made and set was suffi-
ciently manifest from the place where the " Vivid "
lay at anchor. As the lenses revolved the beam of Cru'ze of the
light collected by each became clearly visible over T7u.(/.
head, lighting up a path in the haze, which, though
sufficient to make the beam visible, did not much
obscure the light. These beams were clearly seen
like the spokes of a gigantic wheel, diverging as they
receded from the source of light, and radiating from it
as a centre.
The dark prism was previously tested on several jjri'Uancy of
stars, and as various observations of the same star Vyht, ii.atru-
prcduced the same result, the instrument appeared to >'icni. Jm- testhuj
be well fitted for comparing the intensity of artificial ''■
lights. It consists of a wedge of dark glass cemented
to one of clear glass, so as to produce a solid parallelo-
gram. By sliding a screen from end to end the light
is seen through various thicknesses of darkened glass,
and when it becomes invisible the result is read off on
a scale. The standard is the power of the observer's
eye, and varies in different persons and at different
times with the same person ; but for comparing
two lights side by side it must show which is the
brighter.
The comparison then goes to show that nine re- Comparison of
flectors in very excellent condition, set so as to throw diojnriiwit/i
the light of nine lamps in one direction, only produced ''"''1'^''"^ "!'•
the same effect as one of the 8 beams from the ■""'^" ""'
revolving light produced from one large lamp.
The fixed light seen between the flashes was very
feeble in comparison Avith them. It is produced by a
number of fixed prisms placed below tlie revolving
portion of the lens. The revolving portion somewhat
resembles a large beehive with 13 sides. It was ^ o '<'■■■.'" 2-"«
observed that the upper part of this was attached to ':'/'<'»"■
the lower or central portion, so that the angle and
sides do not correspond, and it was surmised that this
was purposely done so as to lengthen the duration of
the flash bv increasing the lateral divergence of t'le
beams. This arrangement must diminish the powi-r
of the flash. It was also remarked that the light
thrown by the lower prisms on the interior fittings ^j/i, p/'/w/;*.
of tlie lantern was crossed by dark s|iaces correspoml-
ing to the number of tlie prisms, as if they wer^' not
set for the same distant point. The keeper said that
the light would appear as one at a distance, but it is
probable that these prisms are purpnsely made to
throw diverging beams downwards on the sea near the
island.
The following is the result of the comparison of
the light at Lundy Island with lights not in the
United Kingdom, taken from Mariners' Evidence : —
Ciiii'juii hon
witli fuieryn
o
!H
c
.&
Name.
Nature.
•g
'>
1
n
Ig
>.
be
s
O M
»
■s
s
a
o
S
T
O
T
O
1. Grisnez
D. 1st., flash
194
22
35
lOS
5
2
3
—
2. Isle dR Bas -
D. 1st., rev.
2i3
24
27
2
—
1
—
3. Belle Isle -
D. 1st., rev.
276
27
—
1
—
1
—
i. Berliniras -
C. 1st., rev.
365
25
—
2
—
1
—
5. Roca Lisbon -
C. 2nd., rev.
59S
21
—
4
—
2
—
6. Cape St. Yin-
C. 1st., rer.
221
30
—
13
1
—
1
—
cent.
7. Genoa -
? Rev.
370
24
—
8
1
—
—
S. Pelorus
D. 4tli., flash
72
13
—
1
—
1
—
9. CapeOttoway
—
—
—
—
1
—
1
in. Hvi^hlands,
.
—
-
—
—
1
—
—
New York.
11. False Point,
—
-
—
—
—
1
—
Bengal.
Lundy"
D. 1st., rev.
540
30
45
55
15
5
9
-
Majority in favour of Lundy, 10 on 20 comparisons,
and as compared with 11 other lights it is pro-
nounced superior to all, except one. This light has
been seen at 45 miles by one witness, at 35 by two, at
33 by one, and at 30 by 5. It ranks first amongst
all the lights meniioned, either at home or abroad.
Anchored off Pembroke Dockyard, and in the Vcl. !I. 286.
evening left word for the captains of several Irish
steamers that the Commission would be glad to sec
them in the morning if they had any statements to
make relative to light.'i, buoys, or bi-acons.
Monday, July 11th. Coaling till 10 a.m. As tne
B 4
16
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LUmiS, BUOYS.. AND BEACONS :
• of ihe masters of the Irish steamers did not appear it is to
bepresiiiiicd that they had no couiphiints to make.
Admiral Hamilton visited Mr. Hammond, a retired
commander of one of the Government Milford !Mail
Packets.
He stated that two small lightvessels were formerly
maintained olf the fjhear, and were maintained by the
Government. These have been discontinued since
the Post Office Service terminated, but Mr. H. thinks
they would be necessary for working the harbour pro-
perly at nijjlit.
■ siipp!;/. The " Vivid " was delaj'ed for some time in conse-
quence of the total want of provision at Pembroke
Dockyard for watering ships of any kind. Steamed
out of Milford Haven and landed at
on the Scilly Bishops by saying that it was a first Cuhur of
painting, performed by the builder. He thinks white buiUimj.
the best colour for lighthouses as the most conspicuous
when the sun shines. On this point the evidence of
those wlio look at the object is of more value, and
grey light should be considered rather that bright
sunshine.
The keeper misses vegetables. The medicine
chest was inspected and no bottles had been used, but
salts and castor oil. The head keeper appeared
healthy.
Descended the rock by a stair cut in it, and re-
marked the crane which is used in bad weather for
landing stores. IJe-embarkcd easily, and steamed 20
miles to
\o\. II. 101', i;, xHE SOUTH BISHOP ROCK.— No. T.:.
The lighthouse stands on a rock of some size, and
is marked D. 1st order, 144 feet above the sea. The
painters were at work. The lens is a ))art only of
the old lens from Lundy, and was placed a year ago
instead of a reflecting light. There is only the
central band of lenses with eight faces ; there are no
prisms above or below, and the greater part of the
light is thus allowed to escape.
The lens is composed of many small pieces cemented
together ; the joints were very evident as compared
with lenses previously seen, and similar lenses were
afterwards seen in the museum of the French light-
house authorities, and in use in other British light-
houses. The illuminating apparatus, consisting of a
small portion of the whole, and that of an inferior
description, cannot properly be called "first order"
dioptric.
The keeper stated that peo})le on .'-liore and the
light-keeper at the Smalls thought that the light was
brighter and far stronger since the change. This
evidence is again strongly in favour of dioptric lights.
The keeper is 64, and has been employed lor upwards
of 38 years about reflecting lights. He considers it
Tcry troublesome work to clean the glasses with
brushes and spirits of wine ; but admits that there is
more labour in polishing eight reflectors and cleaning
an equal number of lamps which were formerly nsed
at this station. His evidence may be contrasted with
that of the head keeper at Lundy Island, a younger
man, who has charge of two lighthouses on ditlijrent
Ijrinciples.
Spra}' occasionally strikes the lantern, and it has
broken the lower windows of the dwelling-house.
There is a patch of grass in front of the door; rain
Wa'cr su]}j ly. water is collected from the roof. In order to avoid
the salt the keeper turns the spout from the reservoir
for some time after the rain begins, so as to allow tlio
roof to be well washed. When it is sufficiently
washed he turns the spout into the cistern. The
water was tasted and found to be good. This simple
contrivance was thought worthy of notice, as it
might escape persons not forced to think of such ex-
pedients.
Cimparison rf The keeper has often seen vessels very near the
(Jnipiric Willi rock when fogs cleared up. He has a gong, but no
laioptnc ap- bell and no gun ; there is plenty of room for the
parutus. jj,(,3,._
He is jjrovided with five red glasses in a box,
through which he tests the light of the Smalls
three times every night ; and his light is similarly
tested by the keei)cr at the Smalls, who also tests St
Ann's in a similar manner.
'I'lie whole establishment was in \ery good urdrr,
well and neatly kept.
The painter stated that the paint was in a very bad
state wiien he came. He said that the horizontal
water spouts, being .square and made of iron, rust,
overflow, and damage the])aint. He suggested round
Paini. gutters of a different nielal. He thuught that work
done by contract for tlie Trinity House was very
inferior to work done by the paid servants of the
House. He accounted for the bad state of the jiaiiit
20. THE SMALLS.— No. 74. Vq] h jq
This is an old wooden lighthouse, built 1778, on income, 185;
piles, at one end of alow rock 20 miles from land, A 22,759/. 2s,
new stone lighthouse, partly built, stands on the other
end of the same rock, and shows the improv?ment
that has taken place in lighthouse architecture since
that time. The rock is not so high as that on which
the Scilly Bishops is built ; it is about the same
height as the Eddystone bnt larger. There is room
to walk about. It is above high-water mark, but the
sea breaks all about tlie lantern of the old light and
over the new building whenever there is heavy
weather. Green seas pass up to a point about 32
feet above the level of the rock. A foreign ship once
struck at the end of the rock in broad daylight.
The crew, 12 men, leaped on shore ; the vessel drifted
about three miles and sank. On being asked how
they had fed so many men, the keepers replied, that
they always had six mouths' provisions when they
came off. The head-keeper has been 18 years on this
station, and prefers it to any other ; he has refused
to change. He is a native of Wales ; is married, and
has a considerable farm on shore. The nnder-keeper
is a native of Ealing, a watchmaker by trade, and
" would rather be anywhere on shore at half the
money." He said, "This is rusting a fellow's life
away." A more extraordinary dwelling cannot well
be imagined, or a greater contrast to a watchmaker's
life at Ealing. The I'.ead-kccper said that he had
caught woodcocks in September, as also larks, star-
lings, and blackbirds. Five years ago he caught a Birds.
partridge on the night of the first of September. He
thought that probably the shooting had driven him to
sea. " He was very fat imleed." He also caught a Seals.
young seal by descending from his perch in the light-
liouse and placing a bag in front of him as ho slept.
" He poked him uj) behind with a stick, and in he
went."
Both these were intelligent men, and said that the
Bishop's light was much improved since the change
to the dioptric system ; a reference to the account of
the apparatus will best show what that change is, and
what might be anticipated from a still further im-
provement.
Twelve observations made with the darkened glass
were compared with 12 made at the Bishop's on
this light. These give 44 Smalls, 48 Bishop.
The Smalls has 27 large reflectors, which were
beautifullj' kejit. The Bishop a small portion of an
indifferent dioptric apparatus and one large lamp.
The old lighthouse was ascended by a rope ladder. Dacripiicn
The piles, though they iiave stood for so many years, bnildiny.
look very insecure ; they arc .-^et upright in the rock
and have a few props on one side to resist the greatest
force of tiie wa\es. The upper part consists of a sort
of platform, on which provisions and stores are
placed, which are not easily damaged by water ;
above that is a wooden barrack, an octagon cabin
in which the workmen employed about the new
building sleep in berths like tho,se of a ship, and they
sleep on the floor if there are too many; above that
is the light-keeper's sleeping room and kitchen in one
which is entered by a trapdoor ; above that is the
h'.ntern. In heavy weather, when the sea is dashing
PERSONAL OBSERVATIOXS lUDE BY COMMISSIONERS.
17
about the lower room, workmen and all congregate in
the upper room. The whole structure trembles and
sways about, aud it has been known to lean nine
inches from the perpendicular. The whole was as
neat as was possible under such circumstances, and the
lantern, especially, and all belonging to it was in
excellent order.
A coppery reflection whicli had been observed on
the silver of the reflectors in other lighthouses, both
by day and night, was here found to proceed from the
bright copper backs of the reflectors shining through
the hole for the chimney.
hw Light- On descending from this old lighthouse the party
oitse. ascended the new one bj' the help of a chain, and the
courses of the lower masonry, which form narrow
steps. A ladder will be fixed when the building is
oompletcd. The lowest room is now nearly ready,
and the lower part of the building is filled with fresh
water and acts as a well, which proves the excellence
of the workmanship.
The stones are all prepared and carefully fitted on
shore, — the lighthouse is, in fact, actually built there.
Each stone has a square hollow on each edge and a
square hole in the centre ; when placed, a wedge of
slate, called a "joggle," fits into the square opening
formed by joining the two upper stones. The joint
is placed exactly over the centre of the stone below,
into which the joggle is wedged before the two upper
stones are placed. The result is that each set of
three stones is fastened together by a fourth, wliich
acts as a pin to keep the tiers from sliding on each
other. The base of the structure is solid. Two iron
cranes slide up an iron pillar in the centre of the
building, and are fixed by pins at the required posi-
tion as the work advances. The two are used together
so as to obviate any unequal strain.
This excellent workmanship, aud its progress
beside the old lighthouse, was striking and instructive.
The foreman had been engaged in building the Scilly
Bishops, and said that this station was less exposed
though not much. No stone has been moved from its
place since the work began, but, as a proof of the force
of the sea, an iron bar about two inches thick and
three feet long was shown ; it was fixed in the rock
and had been bent like a wire. The tools of the
workmen, coals, and such like, are kept in places
quarried in the rock and covered with wooden doors
which slope from the ofiing : these are often 30 feet
under water.
This inspection of a lighthouse in construction on
such a spot gives a fair idea of the difficulties overcome
in constructing such an edifice as the Scilly Bishops.
The foreman cauglit and presented to the Commission
'^"'i- a fine rock fish ; he added that no one ever fished
there for amusement for the fish were too valuable
and might be scared away.
On leaving the Smalls steamed for the Irish coast,
and boarded the
Vol. II. 2GG.
21. CONINGBEG LIGHTSHIP,— No. 37.
off Saltees Rocks.
Boarded the vessel, which is coloured black with
a white stripe to distinguish her from the floating
lights on the English coast, which are red.
She had three masts with black halls and two
lights ; she appeared to ride very easily, and the
master said she rode " beautifully." She is moored
in 32 fathoms, and rides by 170 fathoms of chain.
One spare chain is 1| inches, the other l\. The
chain is hove in quite short once a month, and runs
on a roller low down in the hause outside.
There are 200 fathoms in each chain, made in
lengths of 20 fathoms, with a swivel at each 10, and
with a mushroom anchor. 170 fathoms are generally
out, the shackles are countersunk. There is a fojr
gong on board, but no gun ; the gong is sounded
every ten minutes in fogs.
This is said to be the best Irish lightvessel. The
Kish to be the oldest and the worst. The sea is
•worst at the Kish. " It is short." " Here, though much
exposed, the sea is long, and less difficult to ride in." Cruize of the
Here, then, the statement of the master agrees with ^"'"'•
the statements of those on board other lightvessels.
The Longships and the Couingbeg lightships, though Waves.
the most exposed in the kingdom, seem to ride
easier than vessels in much more sheltered positions,
and the master of the floating light in the Humber
complained of the sea in the river as the worst he
had ever encountered.
The men were mustered and inspected. The
master is Scotch, the rest Irish. They were all fine
men, well dressed, and clean. Inspected the medicine
chest; salts and castoroilonly had been used. Inspected
the log, which was regularly kept, but has no printed
beading as elsewhere. Inspected the oil ; it looked
thick, but the master said " it burns well.''
There is no local agent, but the superintendent.
Captain Roberts, visits once a month in a store tender,
which brings off supplies on the 1st, 10th, and 20th
of every mouth. The corporation visit once a year,
" weather permitting."
The men have 21. lis. a month. Is. Sd. a day to
find themselves ; they complain that the allowance
for food is insutficient, and only allows of meat twice
a week. No beer or spirits are allowed on board.
The master has 71. a month, and the same allowance
as the men ; he has been 26 years in the service, and
has never had occasion to dismiss a man. He has
been in various lightships.
He showed a contrivance for making the trimming
of lamps, when hoisted, safer. A man was killed
last year by falling ofl' the Jacob's ladder, while
trimming the lamps in a heavy sea.
Inspected the reflectors. They were not very
bright, and, in common with most others seen on
board of lightships, they were scratched. The vessel
appeared to be in first-rate order, and has not been
adrift within the last two yeai's.
At 9 p.m. left the vessel, and observed the lights
which were then hoisted. They did not appear to be
very bright.
Steamed into Waterford ILiirbour, to take in a
pilot at Dunmore, failed in obtaining one, so inspected
the Harbour light.
22. DUNMORE. Vol. II. 418
There are three large reflectors : two covered with * °' '
red glass, showing to seaward ; one clear, showing up
the river. These were in very tolerable order, but
not so brightly polished as those in the first-class
lighthouses which have been visited. The keeper
spoke favourably of the oil, and showed a glass of it.
His log, or oil account, was made up to the end of
May in form, and kept in a rough book up to the
present time. He stated that he had written for a
new book on the 30th of May, and that he had
received no answer, and that Mr. Halpin, the super-
intendent, visited him about once a month.
Embarked about lOi^ p.m., and observed the Har-
bour lights at Waterford and Duncannon burning
clear. Steamed past
23. THE HOOK.— No. 135.
Did not land, as the Commissioners wished to see
Tuskar alight. The Hook light was burning well,
but could not be seen at Coningbeg, ten miles
off-.
The Coningbeg light was passed at midnight, and
was also burning well, but could not be seen at any
great distance. There was some haze in the atmo-
sphere, but the night was fine. There was a little
sea on, and the light appeared to "wink" as the
vessel moved. July 12, passed
24. THE TUSKAR— No. 134.
at about 2 a.m. Two white lights, and a red ; re-
volving, intermittent, burning satisfactorily. Weather
18
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Cruize of the
Vivid.
Vol. II. 265.
Vol. II. 229,
230.
Liglitning von
iluctor wanted.
Comparison of
Dioptric with
Catoptric
apparatus.
rather hazy. Having no pilot, and heavy swell on,
did not land. At 3 a.m. boarded the
25. MONEY- WEIGHTS, or BLACKWATER.—
No. 36.
The vessel is so named on the Admiralty charts;
in the Admiralty list of lights she is called the
Blackwater, and that name is painted on her sides.
This caused some hesitation, and might cause some
confusion.
The vessel has three masts, with tvro lights, one
revolving. The lights were lowered at sunrise, as
the vessel was boarded.
The reflectors were bright and well polished, but
a little scratched : they were fully as well kept as
any yet seen, except those at the Seven Stones, which
were peculiarly good.
This vessel came on the station in 1857. The
master is an Englishman ; he stated that the master
of the next vessel to the northward was a Welshman,
and the next an Irishman. The crew are Irish.
There is no service on board on Sundays, the crew
being of various persuasions.
The vessel was built at Cork. The machine for
the revolving light was contracted for by Chance
of Birmingham, and is supposed to have been made
by j\Iilne of Edinburgh. The master says the vessel
rides very well ; he has a fog gong which is sounded,
a bell which is not used in fogs, but no gun ; he has
rockets and blue lights. No meteorological instru-
ments are kept on board. In summer the vessel is
moored by 120 fathoms of chain, in winter 200.
The only books kept are the log and oil books ; these
were regularly kept, and entered up to Monday.
There are no observations taken of neighbouring
lights. The Tuskar is only seen occasionally, before
or after rains (distant 18 miles). The allowance of
Is. 3d. for food is considered insufficient. There are
no fire buckets. The vessel was roomy and very
clean ; the oil room was a model of cleanliness. The
master said "he had. never taken in a sea." That
the vessel, in his opinion, was properly placed. He
could not account for the wreck of the Pomona, close
to this station, but by a mistake in the reckoning.
The wreck was seen from the deck. There was a
library on board, and the master had a turning lathe,
which he had taught himself to use. lie was bred
to the sea. Steamed in to
26-27. WICKLOW HEAD— Nos. 132-133.
and anchored for some hours to visit the lights there.
Landed and walked about a mile to the upper light.
It is fixed, has fifteen 24-inch reflectors in two rows.
They were well polished, but dented in many places.
They were first placed in 1818. The keeper has
been many years on this station. The old light tower
was struck by lightning some years ago.
It had no conductor. The new tower has no con-
ductor either, and the keeper says that in thunder-
storms the lightning is " fearful,'' " it appears to play
through and about the whole lantern." There are no
meteorological instruments ; the clock had stopped
the printed regulations were missing at first, and on
being found were nearly illegible, and without date.
The lower light is close to the sea, and the two are
so placed that when the upper is hid by a hill, it ia
time to keep off shore.
There are 15 24-inch reflectors fixed in two tiers.
They were well kept, but more scratched than reflec-
tors in other first-class lighthouses. Only one
reflector and the half of anotlier can be seen at the
same time by passing vessels. At the Tuskar, where
this keeper had been, there are seven reflectors in each
of three faces. At Lundy there were nine reflectors
on the same face, which only produced as much effect
as one-eighth part of the light of one lamp placed in
a lens. It follows then that a fixed light on this
catoptric principle, showing only one ninth of the
light shown at Lundy, cannot be so good as a lens.
There is neither bell, gong, nor gun. The clock was Clocks wantei
wrong, but the keeper made up for that "by taking Railway iimr.
the time from tlie passage of a railway train along
shore, at a distance of about three miles." There was
a barometer and a register ; but the instrument was
old, and of bad quality. The fog settles more about
the upper light, and still more about the old tower,
which is still higher. The spray strikes the windows
of the lanterns. There is no medicine chest. There
is no lightning conductor.
The keeper has been 35 years in the service. The
under-keeper died some time ago, and the upper
keeper's son, aged 17, is assistant, at 40/., in the
meantime. The corporation have not visited for two
years. The inspector was there "two years ago
last June." There is no visitors' book, and very
few people visit the place.
Embarked and stood for
28. THE KISH.— No.34.
Vol. II.
Boarded that vessel at half past 12. She is a three
master, with one ball and three lights of 8 reflectors
each, 140 tons burden. There are six spare reflectors ;
the}' were in good order, but, as is usual in vessels,
scratched. The lamplighter, the oldest man in the
service, said that these reflectors, made by Wilkins,
were very badly silvered. He said that it was
'•exceeding difficult to kee|) reflectors in order at
sea." ■' The ironwork of the lamps is also peculiarly
difficult to keep clean." Called his attention to the
scratches. He could only account for them by the
sea water. The oil room was a model of cleanliness.
The mate in charge has been 15 years in the service,
and four in this vessel. The new vessel has never
been adrift. The old vessels, which were shorter, and
not so fine in the bows, were often adrift, oftener here
than on any other station. The vessel rides in nine
fiithoms, V. .ill 140 fathoms of IJ-inch chain. The mate
stated that on heaving in the cable after the heaviest
gale, the 90 fathoms next the anchor have never been
raised from the bottom. This is ascertained by finding
barnacles on tlie upper part and none on the lower
part of the chain. This argument must be taken for
what it is worth. There is a gong, as usual, and a gun,
also rockets and blue lights. There is a medicine chest.
The commonest complaint " dysentery." No meteoro-
logical instruments. Gales are foretold by observing
a heavy .sea, which comes in sometimes 12 hours
before the gale. Tliere are two boats, which have
never been used to pick up wrecked men. A wrecked
crew did come on board in their own boat some time
ago. The crew, seven, were mustered, and wei'e fine
looking men. They consider their victualling allow- ^y^^ ^^^^j^j ^.
ance, \s. 3d., insufficient. They are allowed neither Lightvessel.
spirits nor beer on board. They think the new
vessels a great improvement on the old. One of the
old vessels was subsequently seen laid up at the wharf
at Dublin, and was evidently an inferior craft in
every way.
Landed at Kingston at 2.30, and went by rail to \q\ jj 40(
Dublin. Called at the office of the Port of Dublin personal
Corporation, and saw the whole staff of tlie office, observation.
They exhibited portions of the work entailed on them
by the questions of the Commissioners. Tlie cal- Preparation t
culations required to extract the financial statements Financial
were most intricate and voluminous, principally in R^i"r"s. 4'<-".
consequence of the present system of charging so
many one-sixteenths of a penny for every light
passed.
The questions asked, viz. "What is the income
derived from each light ?" appears a simple one, but
to answer it the wliolo income of the corporation
derived from lights has to be broken up into one-
sixteenths of a penny, and allotted to each lighthouse
passed in each voyage of each ship that has entered
each port in Ireland during the period, and in some
instances a I'eduction has to be made on every sum
throughout, in consequence of some alterations in the
rote of dues.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS
J9
The Commissioners, accompanied by several gentle-
men connected with the office, visited the buoy
establishment. Captain Eyder made the following
remarks.
Visited the buoy wharf at the end of the North
Walk. Saw buoys of various descriptions. The
Dublin Board have a few Herbert's buoys, but
consider that Mr. Bindon B. Stoney has invented
an improvement on Herbert's. The inventor calls
it the " keel buoy." ,The keel consists of an
iron rim about 18 inches in depth, perforated with
a few holes to let the air escape. '■ The enclosed
water," he said, " steadied the buoy by its inertia."
■' The pressure of the tide on the lips or keel keeps
" the buoy upright, provided the point of attachment
" of the chain is rightly placed, and the keel acts as
•' ballast." The buoy is made in Dublin for half the
price of a "Herbert." A 16-feet buoy shows 12 feet
out of water. Mr. Stoney said Mr. Herbert had
partially abandoned his theory, " and lowered his
" point of attachment from the centre of gravity and
" floatation to half way between that point and the
" centre of the base." 3Ir. Herbert subsequentli/ took
legal proceedings against Mr. Stoney for infringing his
patent.
Captain Roberts, in charge of the marine establish-
ment, stated that he used stone sinkers on sand, and
iron sinkers on rock, because the stone sinkers
did not sink so deep in the sand, or oppose so
muc'a resistance to the weighing ; also that chains
wear more on a sandy bottom than on rocks ; that
there is no oscillating motion in water 15 feet below
the surface.
The spare buoys are kept at the lighthouses, and
the head-keepers have orders whenever a buoy is
displaced to employ boatmen to replace it. (^Note. —
July 19. No buoys have yet been seen at any light-
house.)
He is not aware of any site requiring a lighthouse
in Ireland besides those already agreed on.
The pay of the floating light men was raised in
England 10 per cent, when the provisions were high
a few years since, and was never lowered. The
Irish pay was never raised. The great advantage of
rollers in hawse-pipes is tliat they not only ease the
" heaving in, but can easily be shifted when worn,
" whereas the hawse-pipe, which often suffers in a
" heavy gale, must be shifted, which is a long and
" expensive proceeding."
The Dublin Board had accumulated 100,000/. to
enable them to pay expenses of staff out of the in-
terest, and then to lower or abolish the light dues,
but the Board of Trade preferred to take 100,000/.
into their own keeping.
The chains are carefully tested, but Capt. Roberts
considered that the screw steam tender, lately pur-
chased by a grant from the Board of Trade of 4,000/.,
is too small to lay out heavy buoys on the NW. coast
of Ireland. In this the Commissioners entirely
concur, having seen the vessel, and the buoys she is
intended to carry. She only goes seven knots.
? system. Captain Roberts visits all lightvessels and buoys
at short intervals. The channels at Dublin are
buoyed on a system, but he does not think it can be
applied to passages among banks, as on the east coast
of Ireland. The system is red on port hand, on
coming in, black on starboard hand.
At sunset steamed for
the board. A similar bell is used on Kingston Pier. Cruize of the
The keeper said that the machine was easily wound nvid.
up (it was tried and found to be so) and worked well,
and that the bell was heard 14 miles down wind, -^"^ *'3'"''-
though but a short distance to windward. It was
sounded for an experiment as the " Vivid " started,
and was heard off the deck about half a mile to
windward against a slight breeze. It was the largest
bell and the best yet seen or heard at a lighthouse.
There is no sun.
At 11 p.m":five liahts, all burning brightly, were ^^M^lf
I ii 7^- 1 o T i_i -n ■, -r? . ,. 1 in 36 hours
seen, namely, — the Kish, 3 lights, Baily Houth, fixed,
Kingston Pier, revolving, the Pigeon House, and the
light at the Buoy Wharf on the Litfey. This makes
ten lights inspected, and seven ot!iers seen, within
36 hours since leaving MiUbrd.
July 13th. At anchor in Holyhead Harbour.
Landed at 7i a.m. ; drove to the
32. SOHTH STACK.— No. 77-78.
Vol. II. \0i.
It is on an island, under a cliff, and joined to land
by a bridge. The sea birds are preserved as a
natural fog signal, and are tame. Gulls sit on Fog signal,
the walls and close to the lighthouse, and scream birds.
continually ; a few white rabbits sat amongst the
young gulls, and seemed on terms of perfect
intimacy. A boat is suspended some 20 feet above
the sea at the end of a long rope. The light
is revolving, 21 reflectors, which are 50 years
old but in perfect condition except where
damaged by bits of glass from broken chimneys
falling on them. There is not a scratch to be seen
that seems new ; the reflectors are set on three faces
of seven each ; the system revolves in six minutes,
and shows a blight light every two minutes.
There is a fog light which is lowered on a railroad to
within 50 feet of the water. It has three reflectors
and revolves. The keeper was formerly at the Smalls
for 14 years, and "liked it well." His father was
there before him ; he spoke of it with regret. He
keeps,lst, oil and store book, 2,meteorological register,
3, journal of observations on lights visible, 4, visitors'
book, 5, order book ; all in order. He has, 1, clock,
2, sun dial, 3, barometer, 4, thermometer, all in good
order. For his own amusement, he draws, photo-
graphs, makes models, keeps duplicates of meteorolo-
gical observations. The assistant had hurt his arm
badly, so that the upper man bad to do all the work.
There is a large fog bell inverted which is rung by
machinery. There are no guns used here, but guns are poq signal gun
fired from the mountain above in thick weather every
half hour, and oftener when the mails are expected;
and the birds are preserved as a natural warning to
ships, and have proved useful in fogs. The guns are
heard in all weathers nine miles off at the Skerries.
The bell never. It seems desirable that the water
supply Laid on during the building should be con-
tinued, and repaired for the keepers, so as to save them
the great labour and loss of time consequent on as-
cending the steps and going to a considerable distance
for water.
The Commissioners have heard with regret that
this intelligent keeper has since been killed, as ia
supposed by the fall of a stone from the cliff.
Returned to Holyhead. Breakfastedand steamed to
^ol. II. 262.
29. BAILEY HOWTH.— No. 197.
Landed on the rocks, and ascended by steps cut in
them. The pier light at Kingston was not lit till
some time after sunset. Houtti light is a very fine
establishment, and in very good order. It is a fixed
catoptric light of 17 reflectors, which were well kept,
but were dusty, in consequence " of the work of the
painters, who had been in the light room all day."
There is a very powerful bell attached to this light,
sounded by machinery, -which goes while winding,
invented by Mr. O'Reilly, the assistant secretary of
C 2
33. THE SKERRIES.— No. 79. ,, , „ ,„.
\ ol. II 104.
This is built on a low island of some extent, p^g ^innat,
covered with birds, mostly terns, which are preserved birds. '
No other fog signals are used here, but mariners
can determine their position by distinguishing the
noise of the birds which frequent these two stations.
The keeper has known fogs to last 48 hours,
and a wreck has taken place on the mainland
after six hours' fog. There is a sound two miles
broad within the island which is dangerous, but which
is passed occasionally. One ship, the " Regulas," was
20
APPEXDIX TO REPORT OX UGHTS, Bt'OYS, AXD EEACOXS :
Cruise of the
Vivid
Catoptric anil
Dioptric appi
ratus romparvi
Vol. II. 326
Liverpool^ 8
hghts seen.
wrecked on llic island four years ago. Ka(s escaped
from her : they have bred on the ishind, and are
gradually dc-troyinpr the birds. A cat has been fried,
but she preferred birds to rats. A man at Holyhead
undertakes to kill tliem all. The lischt is D. 1st order,
fixed, and is in excellent order. The same books and
instruments are kept as at the South Stack, all in good
condition.
Mr. Baily, who lives at ililford, is the agent for
this and all" intervening lights ; ho visits two or three
times a year.
This lighthouse has a tender, which comes off,
weather permitting, once a fortnight ; she is under
charge of a Holyhead pilot. The keeper stated that
large glass cliimueys were less liable to break than
small ones ; that the supjjly was unequal in quality,
many were useless (because too narrow below). He
has reported this fact to Jlr. Baily. He has plenty
on hand, but this should be remedied. Sometimes of
those which he could use three would break in one
night ; sometimes one would last for a year. He
has been on this station for four years, and has never
/• known his lamp to go out. He was formerly at a
reflecting light. He says there is much more labour
about cleaning reflectors, but much more watching
about a lens light. One of many lamps may go
wrong without serious injury to the light; but a single
lamp requires constant watching and great care.
(This statement is incorrect as regards a fixed catoptric
light, for if one of a circle of lights is extinguished,
so much of the horizon will be dark.) He thinks that
darkened metal fittings similar to those in the lantern
would not diminish the usefulness of the light in any
way, and woidd save labour and avoid the risk of
damaging the glass of the lens, which is inseparable
from cleaning bright metal fittings close to the angles
of the prisms. His lighthouse was in beautiful order,
but he apologized for its condition, and explained that
it was not so clean as it should he "because 250 school
children and their teachers visited the island yester-
day from Holyhead in a steamer." They drank half
a butt of water (which is scarce), and would put
their fingers " on the brass work." The birds vrhich
kill themselves against the lantern arc starlings,
thrushes, blackbirds, larks, linnets in flocks, and ducks
occasionally.
The glass of the upper prisms in this lens is of
English manufacture ; it is streaky and far inferior
to the rest of the lens. This establishment was con-
sidered to be the best, as a whole, that has yet been
seen, and it was kept in exceedingly good order. The
five glasses used for testing neighbouring lights are
here insufiicient. " The light at South Stack could
often be seen through six or seven such glasses."
On lea\'ing this light the vessel ran into Liverpool.
The observations of the Commission on the lights
under the authority of the Corporation ivill be found
amongst the returns from local authorities under the
heading " Liverpool."
On leaving Liverpool the "Vivid " ran for the Isle
of Man.
Vol. II. 173.
42. THE CALF LIGHT— Xo. 83.
was observed from a distance of about 20 miles.
Also,
Vol. II. 3-Jl.
Ireland.
Vol. II. 256.
43. DOUGLAS HEAD.
For remarks on Douglas Head and other lights
visited in the Isle of Man, sec the returns from the
local authorities under the head "Isle of Man," and
page 44 below.
The light has latch/ been transferred to the Com-
missioners of 2Cortliern Lighthouses.
July 16lh. — Steamed for
44. SOUTH ROCK— No. 186.
Tins is a low tower built on a rock ; the sea covers
it at high water, and comes 18 feet up the tower at
high tides. It shakes very much in heavy weather,
and the spray goes over the house.
The Iiead-keeper was on shore on leave with his
sick wife wife, leaving a substitute, who is paid " a
shilling a night and his meat," and the under keeper
in charge. His name is Stapleton, a powerful man,
who said that the only thing he has to find fault with
is, that the boat comes only mce a week. The pro-
visions are often stale, and all the keepers suffer in
health. They have no medicine chest. They have
a library, which is changed once a year.
There are 10 reflectors set in two faces. They
were in good order, but were not yet cleaned up.
The cleaning leathers and boxes for materials were
not in a very cleanh' condition ; but generally the
lantern was in good order. There is no ventilation,
and the keeper says that the glass inside " fogs," and
has to be cleaned daily. The bars of the lantern are
very thick. There is no lightning conductor, and
" the lightning plays round the tower fearfully." i,y,(,„„,
They thought that it broke a pane of glass below du'ctor tea,.
some time ago, "it seems to go all round and through
" the lantern." There has been some talk of putting
a conductor, and mending the outside rail (which is
of iron, and much corroded and broken in many
]ilaces) for some years past, but it has not been done.
There is a thermometer and a clock, going. There
are two fog bells, but they are " no use unless quite
" close." The Calf of Man, and ]Mull of Gialloway
lights are seen from this station. No observations
of them are taken. This light v.'as extinguished
this morning at 3:^. It was visited on May
12, by the Lighthouse Board. They come twice
a year in a steamer. There is but one wooden
ladder for mounting this tower ; if it were broken
or lost, it would be hard for the men to descend.
jMetal steps should be fixed in the stone as elsewhere.
The Commissioners had some difficulty in gaining an
entrance, as the men, having extinguished the light,
had gone to sleep, and the ladder was hauled up.
It was only after much shouting that the keepers
were aroused, and the ladder let down. They have
flag signals, and a tender is attached to the lights.
The birds killed against the glass are blackbirds, Birds.
stares, thrushes, larks, linnets, woodcocks. The
keepers catch a few fish off the rocks. Steamed to
COPELAND.— No. 184.
Vol. II. 2S
It has 27 reflectors, in two rows, in very good
order, well cleaned, no scratches to speak of, though
about 40 years old. The keepers are, John Doyle,
aged 57, 24 years in the service, formerly a stone
ma.son ; he has been 10 years at Eagle Island, some
time at Houth, and Pier Head, Kingston : not in good Medicine ch
health ; has no medicine ; he has some children.
John Kelly, 27, six j-ears in service, sailor. He
also complains that he is " bound up," and would
like to take medicine sometimes. There is no light-
ning conductor, and the lightning "plays all round
the lantern." There is a thermometer and a clock clocks and
(out of order) ; they take their time by the sun and dials.
the almanack; they have no dial. They are generally
visited twice a year by the authorities, the superin-
tendent comes at the same time. They have a very
large fog bell worked by machinery. It has been
heard about 13 miles off at Carrickfergus. The es-
tablishment is on an island of considerable size on
which cows graze. There is a well of fresh water,
an excellent garden and some flowers. The wife of
the head keeper lives with her husband, she is from
Dublin, and the whole establishment was in a very
good state both of cleanliness and efficiency. Birds Birds.
killed, — blackbirds, thrushes, stares, larks, linnets,
ducks, widgeons. On leaving the island steamed for
the
46, 47. MAIDENS— No. 181, 182. vol. II. 2t
These are built on two rocks about half a mile
apart, and eight from the shore. Landed at the
PERSOXAL OBSERVATIONS IIADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
21
AghiniiKJ con-
uctor.
^&g siijnah.
lloclti wanted.
Yaler had.
{edirine c/wst
■anted.
M. II. 253.
'!ohur nf build-
,gs.
'og sli/nals
anting.
soutliern light. There is a dark red stripe painted
round the^e lighthouses. This change is praised in
tlio " Sailing Directions." There arc 26 reflectors in
two rows, they are 30 years old, and are beginning to
wear through ; they were in very good order, so
were all the cleaning boxes and leathers, each mate™
rial kept separate from the others ; they break from
three to five chimnics a week. There is no conductor.
The lightning is " very heavy." There are no fog
signals, no signals of any kind. The clock is out of
order, " it was sent to be mended and made worse."
There have been no accidents at this establishment.
The keepers saved a ship's crew who were wrecked,
by giving them ropes to get on to the island.
Head keeper, Alexander Power, 52, has seven chil-
dren ; served 16 years, was a farmer, has been at
Wicklow Head ; appointed by Mr. Halpin, through
influence of Col. Latouche ; has good food and good
health. Gets water from shore ; it is stored in
barrels and tasted bad ; has no medicine ; has a
library ; " has not seen clergy for four years ;" " has a
boat of his own" for the use of the boys to catch fish."
They catch fish also off the rock. The under keeper
is Charles Page, born on the northern rock, has good
health, has served on the north west coast.
A few duck and teal are killed, but seldom. This
establishment (tower and both dwelling houses) is a
model of cleanliness. It is well kept and efficient.
It was noticed that the thick bars of the lantern were
opposite to the lamps of the upper tier of reflectors,
which must stop a considerable quantity of light.
Did not visit the other rock, time and coals begin-
ning to run short. It was thought that a buoy was
wanted on Allen rock.
48, '19. EATHLIN.— No. 179, 180.
Anchored in Church Bay, and crossed the island to
the new lighthouse. It is built of grey stone and
coloured dark red near the top.
The American returns received at Liverpool, men-
tion ihat lighthouses there are coloured zcith reference
to the back ground, those projected against the sky
being coloured dark. The evidence of iMr. Maclvor's
captains is in fiivour of this system ; so is the evi-
dence of the 793 mariners, the majority of whom
state that they can best discern black and red
buoys on the water. (See table of experimer-ts,
page 10.) The illurajnating apparatus consists of two
first class dioptric lights, one below, level with the
ground, fixed ; the other above on the tower, inter-
mitting. The upper light is obscured by a metal
tube, which closes round the light for 10 seconds,
and remains open for 50 seconds.
The keeper considers the machinery too compli-
acted for so simple an object ; it has been out of
order -, it goes for five houl's and a half, and is easily
and quickly wound up. The ventilation of the lower
lantern is defective, the glasses are apt to become
clouded at night. The frame work is bright, and the
keeper considers that it would be an advantage if it
were dark metal. In cleaning the metal, it is diffi-
cult to avoid soiling the glass of the lenses. The
glass was made by Chance. The colour is good, but
it is somewhat streaky. The keeper thinks a lens
light much easier to manage than a reflecting light,
much less troublesome. The American lights are now
all dioptric. (See American return, and the reasons
there given.)
There are no meteorological instruments. There
is a clock. There are no fog signals. No observa-
tions are taken of the lights visible, namely, — Ceantire
13 miles, Islay 30, and Instra Hull. The fog seldom
settles on the island. The head lighthouse keeper
complained that when the change of currency took
place, no alteration was made in their salary, which
was measured by guineas ; that they thereby lost
Is. 8d. in the pound. He thought the English light-
keepers were better paid, although their provisions
■were no dearer.
The head keeper had served at Fastnett, &c., in Cru!:e of the
both catoptric and dioptric lights. There are three V'"'"-
keepers, one of whom is on leave. The under keeper """■
has been at Fastnett, South Rock, Eagle Island, Tory
Island ; he is the son of a lighthouse-keeper, and was
appointed by the superintendent of lighthouses with-
out any influence. Both are married; each has his
own dwelling ; everything was in excellent order,
neat, clean, and in a high state of efficiency. It was
not ascertained whether there was a lightning con-
ductor, or a medicine chest, the two articles generally
deficient in Irish lighthouses, and which seem to be
most required.
This light has been exhibited since 1856, and no i^'rds.
birds have been killed against it since this keeper
came, eight or nine months ago. Called on the pro-
prietor, Mr. Gage, re-embarked and steamed past the
Giant's Causeway, took a pilot at Innishovven, and
ran up Lough Foyle to Londonderry, anchored at a
quarter to nine. The observations made on the
lights. &c. in Lough Foyle will be found under the
head Londonderry, Irish Local Returns.
The following evidence was obtained July 18. After V°'- H. 412.
the minutes were read and signed, and while the secre- Two lights
tary despatched correspondence, Ihe Commissioners seen,
went ashore. On board the " Rose," a steamer
belonging to the Glasgow and Derry Company, was
found the commander, Mr. Michel j\IcLaughlin; he Oral evidence
stated that great difiiculty ia experienced in distin-
guishing the two lights at Innishowen, which arc
under the Ballast Board ; the inner light should be
raised 20 feet, or the outer one lowered the same
distance. A light on the west end of Rathlin Island
would be serviceable, but one on Sheep Island would
be better. A light on the south side of Rathliu
would be useful. He considers the Clyde well lit
and buoyed, but the red light on Sanda Island very
indifferent.
Mr. AV. Johnson, commanding the " Enniskillin,''
a Liverpool and Derry steamer. He agreed with the
preceding as to the change required in the Innishowen
light ; he thought a light on the Sheep Island most
desirable for ships navigating the Rathlin Sound ;
also that the lighthouse should stand on the North
instead of the South Rock, and that there should be
something to mark the Highland Rock among the
Maidens. He always makes the north-west light-
ship in approaching Liverpool, and sees the Bidston
light afterwards. Bidston light ought to be as good
a light as can be made. A lightvessel outside,
where the Bell beacon buoy now is, leaving the buoy
in its place, would be of the greatest possible service.
No greater improvement to the Liverpool navigation
could be devised. The Formby light is very bad.
The lighthouse should be on the Chickens instead of
the Calf of Man. (See Liverpool return.)
Captain S. A. Bedford, R. N., commanding the
survey of the north west Coast of Ireland, was sent
for, confirmed general statement, that the inner
light at Innishowen should be rai.sed ; that Arron-
more light should be relighted. He referred the
Commissioners to his evidence published in the
small volume of the report of the Royal Light-
house Commissioners. Had addressed Ballast Board
on subjects connected with improvement of navi-
gation, but received no answer, and is never com-
monly seen by them when they visit the coast, nor is
liis advice asked although his experience extends over
so many years. He stated that at a very small ex-
pense many of the harbours might be made accessible
at night (see his answer. Mariner's Evidence, to 13,
15, 16, 23, 19, his own index number 13), decided in
favour of lighthouses varying in colour according to
the background.
Mr. Richard Hoskyn, Master R.N. — N.E. survey
of Ireland, confirmed statement that inner Innishowen
light should be raised, as also great value of lights on
Sheep Island. See his answer. Is never consulted
by Ballast Board. Says many of the buoys ai-e
inaccurately placed, in some cases tcithin the dangers
C3
22
APPfcWuIX TO REPORT ON LIOHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
( ruize of the they are meant to warn navigators oti". Says there are
Vivid. ' many inaccnracies or ambignities in the Admiralty's
book of lightlionses. Considered that iron buoys otT
Colour or Loch Foyle should be under the Ballast Board. Con-
biiildtngs. firmed general view that the colour of a lighthouse
should depend upon background. Expressed a strong
opinion against too numerous variations in the exhi-
bitions of lights stating that the common run of
seamen will be puzzled. Objected to the " tixed and
flashing," stated that the fixed portion is only seen
when close to. Lighthouse book should always state
when there are two lights whether they arc in the
same tower or not.
At the oflice of the Londonderry Harbour Com-
missioners were seen Mr. Abraham Stewart and
Mr. Jas. McGce, the harbour master. The "Tuns "
buoy goes adrift about once a year, and it has some-
times been a month before it could be replaced.
There is no spare " Tuns" buoy, but when adrift it
is replaced temporarily by a smaller one ; it is indeed
in contemplation to substitute permanently a smaller
buoy on account of the immense strain on the cable.
"No lightship oould ride at the place of the " Tuns"
buoy." They agreed in the opinion given above of
the Innishowen lights ; the small third light was
added because complaints were frequently made,
whereupon they wrote repeatedly to the Dublin
Board, and at last the third light was added, but it
is of little use.
July 20th. — Got under weigh about 3 a.m., and at
5-30 landed at
mile from the main land,
lighthouse. Steamed for
Landed at
Sighted Fannet Point
the Rhinns of Islay.
Vol. XL 252. 52, 53. INNISHOWEN— No. 177, 178.
This lighthouse was built about 1824. There are
two towers, which are exactly on the same level.
The lights are therefore seen as one by vessels
running in for the harbour.
Two totoer'> This has been much complained of, and a single
ohjecHonable. lamp and reflector has been placed in a window in the
outer tower. The light being on the same level is
doubly objectionable, for vessels, when they open the
lights, cannot be sure whether they open from the one
side or the other. (See evidence above.)
The inner tower has three reflectors. These and
the cleaning boxes were in good condition. The
lamps have no iron chimnies. There is no conductor.
The keeper's name is Anthony Hicks who has been
here 22 years, he has been 34 in the service, he is
married "and has grown up daughters. He was a
printer in Dublin. He has been at Eagle Island and
Cape Clear. There is but one keeper at each tower.
This one says he is getting old and would willingly
resign. His place was all in good order, very neat
and clean. His family help him in the duties.
The outer tower has nine reflectors fixed. The
main bar of the lantern is placed nearly opposite to
the reflectors in one row, and must stop a great deal
of the light. The lamps in both lights are on a
diff"erent principle from those common elsewhere, they
have a button in the centre of the wick called a
" deflector" for throwing air into the flame.
Reflectors and cleaning boxes all in very good
order ; dwelling house the same ; all metal work
polished brightly. Powders and leathers in their
proper places. The keeper's name is Hugh Redman,
70 years old, .56 in the service, has been all round
the kingdom, has never been a day sick, he has
raised 13 or 14 children. The reflector in the lower
window was in good order. It seemed that three
would be of more service, and these could be easily
added by enlarging the window.
The wife remembers the loss of the Rambler on
Allen Rock when she was at the Maidens. Steamed for
Vol. 11.251. 54. INSTRAHIJLL.— No. 176.
Found the surf too heavy to land. The light is
built on an island of considerable size, at about a
55. OVERSAY ISLAND, RHINNS OF ISLAY— Scotland
No. 93.
Vol. II. 17<:
and inspected the lighthouse. There are 24 re-
flectors revolving, showing a flash from three reflectors
every five seconds, built about 1825 or 6. The lamps
have no iron chimnies. Reflectors, cleaning boxes
aEtl lantern generally iu good order. Clock going well Clocks.
iu the lantern. Thei-e are three keepers, and there is
a lignal bell which rings in each dwelling by blowing
into a tube in the lantern. There is an answering Sit/'io/io/ic^/t
bell in the lantern which was rung and was efiicient.
The oil burned is colza, and is stored in a cellar
underground. The oil is run in from outside through
a tube which has a cock opposite to each vessel.
The instruments kept are, clock, barometer, ther- insirumenis.
mometer, thermometer in oil cellar, rain gauge, (five,)
all in a state of efficiency.
The books kept are, — ilonthly Return, General Sooks, Jv.
Order, Shipwreck Return, Inventory, Postage Book,
Visitor's Book, (seven,) all in order. There is a book of
regulations, and one on the barometer, and there are
a number of religious books provided. The " Illus-
trated London News" and the " Leisure Hour " are
supplied to the keeper by the Board. It was remarked Colour of bu ■
from the sea that the colour of the lighthouse (a light ing.
brown), rendered it diflicult to distinguish from the
hills and rocks behind. There is no lightning con- So lightning
ductor, and there are no fog signals. Each dwelling conductor.
has a medicine chest. The head keeper is married Medicine chi
and has 1 1 children who go to school on the main •
land ; he has 47/. a year, cow's grass, 3/. for a policy
of insurance, gardens, and a suit of clothes once in
three years. The inspector, David Scott has been
twice this year, in April and July. It was remarked
that the lantern bars were properly placed, and that
the blinds had spring rollers.
Took in a Portnahaven fisherman as pilot, and
steamed for
D UBH-IARTACH.— (Black Western.)
This rock has been thought a fit situation for a Abstract .y
lighthouse, and a correspondence on the subject has corresponda
been forwarded by the Commissioners of Northern
lighthouses. It begins with a memorial dated October
25th 1855, from Archibald MacDonald, Guide to the
ruins of lona, in which mention is made of wrecks
which are supposed to have taken place on the rock,
and the fiicts on which the .supposition is founded.
The Scotch Board directed their engineer to report
on the subject, and in 1857 an unsuccessful attempt
was made to visit the rock. On the 1st July 1857
a report from Mr. Stevenson was read. Information
as to wrecks is given, the position of the rock and
the danger to navigation is pointed out, and it is
stated that the engineer had in vain endeavoured to
effect a landing even in calm weather. The reporters
add, " We have no hesitation in reporting that the
" erection of a lighthouse upon it would be a work
" of no ordinary magnitude."
The Skerry ^Mhore is pointed out as a parallel case.
The Commissioners delayed further consideration of
the subject till they should have an opportunity of
visiting the rock on their annual voyage of inspection.
On the 20th May 1859, Captain Bedford of the
Admiralty Survey reported a case of supposed wreck
on this rock, and the report of the engineers in 1857,
contains a list of 32 wrecks on the neighbouring
coasts of Colonsay and lona, of which 29 took place
since 1803.
On the 20th June 1859, the Commissioner, landed
on the rock without much difiiculty ; but though the
weather was fine there was a considerable swell on,
and probably a landing cannot often be efi"ected so
easily. The rock is of considerable size and always
PEESONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
23
above the level of high vrater. The boatman stated
that in a moderate gale the waves break over it, he
has landed there three times and has seen the waves
breaking over the rock on other occasions when
passing to or from Barra. He says that every spring
the people of Mull go out to Dubh-Iartach and pick
up sucli articles as silver spoons, ship's chains, and
other heavy things, proving that wrecks have taken
place. There is a reef which is dry at low water
spring tides, and which runs out to seaward for a
considerable distance. The outer end of this reef is
low, but is generally out of water. It is presumed
that vessels strike on the outer end of the reef, and
when broken up, that heavy articles are thrown over
and lodge in the holes in the lower part of the reef,
where they are found almost every year. Similar
stories were told of the Skerry Mhore. The rock is
better as a foundation for a lighthouse than those on
which the Scilly Bishops, and Smalls are built. It
is evidently a very dangerous reef. Specimens of
the rock were taken. It is an igneous rock, hard
and compact.
On leaving, steamed for Oban. Observed the
lighthouse at
56. RHU VAAL— No. 94.
showing over the outer end of Oronsoy for a con-
siderable distance from the point. Read the corre-
spondence on this subject forwarded by the Commis-
sioners of Northern lighthouses, and studied the chart
so as to understand the question which has been the
subject of much correspondence.
The following is an abstract. It comprises 68
letters and 191 MS. pages, and extends from 1853 to
June 1st, 1859. It begins with an excerpt from the
engineer's report of 1834.
The proposed light is there described as one of a series of lii^hts
intended to open up the sheltered passage along the coast of
Scotland inside the islands.
The Commissioners, in November 1853, reported in compliance
with a letter from the Board of Trade, from which the following
quotation is made, — " 24th August 1853,"
" with regard to new works, it will be necessary that a detailed
" statement should be made of those works which the Commis-
" sioners consider to be most pressing, with an estimate of the
" whole cost of the works."'
In this report the Commissioners mention " a first-class light
" near Portaskaig, in the sound of Islay, so placed as to open the
" sound fully both to north and south, cost 11,000?."
Together with their report the Commissioners forwarded excerpts
of their proceedings, and of the reports of their engineers on each
of the sites named.
On the 1st day of December 1858 the Commissioners informed
the Elder Brethren of the Trinity House of the resolutions to which
they had come, and mentioned the light at Portaskaig. And, on
the same day forwarded a copy of their letter to the Board of
Trade, together with further documents.
On the 14th of December, the Trinity House acknowledge the
receipt of this communication, and asked to be informed of the
amount of tonnage which was calculated to derive benefit in each
case from the proposed lights.
Tile calculations were furnished as requested.
On the 11th of January 1854, the Trinity Hotise replied, and
on this point said "That' the light at or near Portaskaig, in the
" sound of Islay, would only be useful to vessels passing through
" that sound, aiid should therefore be considered as a local light,
" and the toll to be imposed be chargeable accordingly."
The Elder Brethren, having stated their opinion, added, that
" in the event of the intended erections, or any portion of them,
" meeting the sanction and concurrence of the Board of Trade,"
they would take an early opportunity of visiting the localities, for
the purpose of forming an opinion as to each site.
So far then the Trinity House offered no objection to the site,
or to the nature of the proposed light near Portaskaig, and their
views as to the charges agreed also with those of the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses.
On the 27th of January 1854, the views of the Trinity House
were stated to the Board of Trade by the Commissioners of Northern
Light Houses, and their views were stated also. It was pointed out
that under the 16 & 17 Victoria c. 131, the Trinity House had onlv
to consider the usefulness of the proposed lights, and not this
question of tolls.
On the 11th of April 1854, the Board of Trade transmitted to
the Commissioners a report forwarded to them bv the Admiralty,
and sont to the Admiralty by Commander Bedford, the survevin<'
officer in the district, relative to the establishment of a lighthouse
in the sound of Islay, "upon that point called Carraig Mhoret
" situated about half a mile southward of Portaskaig," which site,
Commander Bedford considered to be the best, as beino- visible
from the greatest distance north and south, and iVir other reasons.
And on the 11th of May. the letter of Commander Bedford
sent to the Admiralty, and by the Admiralty to the Board of Trade,
aiid by the Board of Trade' to the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses, was communicated by the Commissioiiers to the
C4
Trinity House, and it was pointed out that as regards the Lio-hi- Cruhc of the
house the matter awaited the sanction of the Board of Traded to Vwid
whom it was referred on the 1st of December, five months before.
Their Lordships were reminded on the lath of April, and,
On the 11th of May the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses expressed a wish that in the event of their proposals bein<f
sanctioned their Lordships would cause them to be iiifomicd within
a short time, so that steps might be taken for proceeding with the
work in tlie course of 1855.
On the 23rd Jlay their Lordships concur in the opinion expressed
by the Commissioners that no time should be lost in makino- such
preparations as would not interfere with any changes in the "selec-
tion of the sites, which, after the visit of the JElder Brethren, it mio-hl
appear expedient to make. *
And on the 25th of August 1S54, the Trinity House com-
municated to the Commission the result of the obs'ervations made
by a Committee who had visited the proposed sites.
As respects the proposed light at Portaskaig, the Committee
did not approve of the site chosen bv the Commissioners, and
suggested by the surveying officer on the station in his letter to
the Admiralty. They stated their objeclions, and suggested Rhu
Vaal, at the north end of the sound as a better position in the
rneantime, and reference was made to the use of the proposed
light for the sound to the westward.
On the 8th of August 1854, the engineer of the Commissioners
reported on the letter of the Trinity House, and with reference to
liglit at Portaskaig pointed out that the objections of the Elder
Brethren to the site selected by him and by Captain Bedford in-
dependently, were well grounded, as it seemed impossible to li<rht
the sound efficiently with a single central light. That a light°at
Rhu Vaal would open up the northern entrance to the sound of
Islay, but that it was doubtful whether it should be used to lio-ht
the intricate and dangerous passage between Oronsay and Islay."
It was also pointed out that the question of a' light for the
southern extremity of the sound of Islay had not been decided.
On the 11th of August, the Trinity House were informed that
orders had been given for the necessary surveys of all the proposed
sites.
On the 11th of October, Captain Bedford wrote to the Commis-
sioners, urging on them a reconsideration of the choice of Rhu
Jlhaol, and again recommending the site near Portaskaig as the
most eligible, on the supposition that only one light was to be
establislied in the district. Captain Bedford's views were st.ated at
length, and with respect to the west, the danger of making the
light visible in that direction was stated. The engineer, on reading
tills letter, had nothing to add to his former report, but
On the 2nd of November 1854, the Commissioners directed a copy
of Captain Bedford's letter to be sent to the Trinity House.
On the Sth of November the Elder Brethren called attention to
their former letter as explaining their views.
On the loth of November, the engineer reported on several
sites, including Rhu Vaal.
On the l4th the Board of Trade requested that plans, &c.
should be sent.
On the 29th the secretary to the Commissioners stated to a
meeting that he had forwarded a copy of Captain Bedford's letter
to the Board of Trade, and read the reply, dated 18th November
1854, in which their Lordships pointed out that they saw no reason
to depart I'rom the view taken by the Elder Brethren.
On the 29th November Captain Bedford was so informed.
On the 14th of December 1854 the Trinity House returned the
plans sent the Commissioners by the Board of Trade and by that
department to the Trinity House, with a letter, in which is the
following passage, ** together w-ith a memorandum containing-
" their Lordships' approval of these plans, subject to the observa^
" tions contained in the said memorandum, and their Lordships
" having requested that, since any suggestions to be made to the
" Commissioners should in accordance with the Act 16 & n
" Victoria, c. 131, sec. 21, be made through this Board, the Elder
" Brethren will, if they agree with their Lordships' suggestions,
" cause the said plans and memorandum to be transmitted to the
" Commissioners, to which request their Lordships add the remark
" that they take this step in the present instance in preference to
" the obvious course of having the plans sent for the observations
" of this Board in the first instance, and before their Lordships
*' express their opinion, because tbe plans are already in their
" Lordships' hands, and because it is of great importance to avoid
" unnecessary delay, and the Elder Brethren, having adopted their
" Lordships' suggestion, and having given the plans and memo-
" randum due consideration, I am directed in transmitting them
" to you for the Commissioners' information the views of the Elder
*' Brethren in relation to these respective sites, as follows: —
The Elder Brethren reserved the "character of Rhu Vaal and
" other lights for future consideration ; the memorandum of the
" Board of Trade," suggested to the Trinity House, and adopted by
them, has this passage:
"No. 9. Rhu Vaal, Sound of Islay. North end site approved.
" The light should be made to serve as a clearing mark for the
" Neva Rocks. Initialed, P. H. F.
So far then it appears that all parties except the surveying officer
were agreed as to the propriety of building a lighthouse on Rhu
Vaal, and that the Board of Trade, in the case of the lighthouses
referred to in their memorandum, originated suggestions which
were adopted by the Elder Brethren, and approved of by the Com-
missioners for Northern Lighthouses, in particular a suggestion as
to the light now under consideration, which was directly opposed
to the opinion of Captain Bedford, considered of doubtful advan-
tage by the engineer, Mr. Stevenson, and referred to by the
Committee of the Elder Brethren who visited the locality, in their
letter of the and August 1854, in these terms :
" It remains further to notice in connection with this subject,
" the channel between Oronsay and islay for which a light on
" Rhu Vaal might be in some degree useful, but it is bound on
" both sides with rocks, which extend considerably from the shore
" and a light on Rhu Vaal could not be sufficiently screened to
" guide vessels clear of those dangers.
On the 24th of January 1855, a correspondence relative to the
sites commenced, and the result was communicated to the Board of
24
APPEXDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS ;
Trade, and their Lordships communicated their views as to
expense.
On the 11th of April 1855 plans were transmitted to their
Lordships.
Un the Ist of June their Lordships requested that the Northern
Lighthouse Commissioners might he informed that, " after con-
" suiting; with Mr. Stevenson, and obtaining accurate information
" on the subject, they were satisfied that if the proposed light at
" the Sound of Islay'is intended to show in the direction of the
" Neva or Balach rocks a tower 100 feet high, as shown in the
" working plans, must be provided for, it will be sufficient for
** the light to show as far as W.X. W. only."
Their Lordships also suggested that a window might be provided
low down in the tower, in case it should hereafter be found pos-
sible to render the channel to the Sound of Islay navigable to
coasters.
On the 25th of June the engineer sent in the tenders received,
and pointing out that the increase in the height of the tower would
cause increased expense.
On the 2Sth the Commissioners caused their Lordships to be
Informed that the engineer had intended, " in consequence of
" the determination of their Lords to cause the light of
" Rhu Vaal Islay to he shown towards the westward, as far as
" direction of the Neva Rocks, it was found necessary to design
" a tower UK) feet in height, which was not in the contemplation
" of the engineers, and therefore a further sum would be necessary,
and on the .trdof July their Lordships sanctioned the extra expense.
On the liilh of February the engineers reported that the pro-
priety of lighting tlie passage of Colensay, and exhibiting the
lightin a western direction, required further consideration.
On tlie 7th of May ISSii, the Commissioners had under their con-
sideration a copy of a report sent by Captain Bedford to the Admi-
raltv, and decided not to ansiver it till officiallv brought to their
notice. They also considered a memorandum from certain ship-
owners and others interested in the matter, stating their objections
to the site on which they observed the lighthouse in progress.
Ou the ISth of October 1S56 tliis memorial was forwarded to the
Board of Trade.
On the 29th it v.as acknowledged.
On the 3rd of November, the subject of the character of the light
was referred to in a letter from the ISoard of Trade to the Commis-
sioners, and they were requested to furnish plans.
On the 5th the engineers repeated their great doubt as to the
propriety of attempting to render the light on Rhu Vaal available
in lighting the channel between Oronsay and Islay, and tiheir
opinions that the light showing to the westward should be a danger
light to warn vessels off.
From this period up to the exhibition of the light a corre-
spondence W.1S carried on amongst the authorities relative to the
character of the light.
The Commissioners wished that it should be revolving, and show-
red to the westward as a warning light.
On the 15th of Januarj' 1857 their Lordships staled their view
that a fixed light, so coloured as to lead vessels through the
channel between Islay and Colensay, would be better and directed
the Commissioners to communicate with the Trinity House.
The Commissioners again stated their opinion to the Board of
Trade, and were again desired to state them to the Trinity House.
The correspondence was sent to the Trinity House on the 12th
February 1857.
On the 25th of February the Trinity House concurred with the
view of their Lordships that the light should be lixed, and remon-
strated with the Commissioners on the irregularity of correspond-
ing direct with the Board of Trade. But the Elder Brethren
reser\'ed the consideration of the masking and colour of the light.
On the 20th of July 1857 their Lordships "approved of the cha-
" racter of the light proposed by the Elder Brethren, and con-
•• sidered that the red shade should extend from North to N. 480.
" west true, as shown on the chart sent therewith."
So far then, the governing authority appears to have been the
Board of Trade, and the object, contending for the opening of the
chaiuiel from the westward, to which Captain Bedford and the
Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses were opposed.
On the 15th of July the Trinity House communicated their view-
to the Ciimmissioners, " That the light should be a fixed white light
" visible to the northward and eastward, and to the southward as
*' a guide to vessels navigating the Sound of Islay, visible also to
" the w-estward as a warning to vessels to keep off from the
*' dangers abreat of Colensay and Oronsay, and coloured red only
" in the direction of the east coasts of Colensay and Oronsay,
*' and w-ith a view of warning vessels approaching too near these
" inlands, when bound through the Sound of Islay."
The Elder Brethren also stated that they were not prepared to
recommend that mariners should be encouraged to navigate the
dangerous channel between Islay and Oronsay by night.
The Trinity House then appear to have felt that the proposed
measure was not desirable.
The Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, on the 1st of
October 1858, communicated to the Board of Trade as to the
sailing directions, and again states their opinions that the arrange-
ment would not prove satisfactory.
Several letters p.issed on this subject, and on the 27ih of Octo-
ber the Trinity House stated their view. Their secretary was
directed to inform the Secretary of the Marine Department for their
Lordships infonnation,
*' That the Elder Brethren having given renewed consideration
*' to the purposes for which this light is to be exhibited, concur in
*' the first jiart of the jiaragraph proposed by Captain Sullivan, but
" thcv saw no reason to alter the opinion communicated in the
" letter of the 15th of July 1857, viz., that should it be found
" hereafter, upon further survey of the passage, (viz., that be-
" tween Islay and Oronsay) that it is capable of being rendered
" navigable with safety during the night, by giving the light a
" distinctive character to the westward, the adoption of such a
** measure may then be considered,
and, considering the dangers which are mentioned, " the Elder
" Brethren were not prepared, in the absence of such distinctive
" character, to recommend that masters of vessels should, undes
" any circumstances, take a course defined by compass bearings
" alone between the Islands of Islay and Oronsay during the night
** season."
On the Sth of November the engineer pointed out that from
certain positions the red light might be seen over the island of
Oronsay, and suggested that the sailing directions should be altered.
On the 4th November 1858 the Coumiissioners informed the
Board of Trade, and further remonstrated against the exhibition of
a white light as a danger light, as being contrary to the well
understood principle.
( )n the i'Oth of November 1858 their Lordships informed the Com-
missioi'ers that they agreed with the alteration proposed by the Elder
Bretbi'en to be rnade in the paragraph to be inserted in the Notice to
Ma-.-iners, and also as " to the use of a white light as a warning|light."
On the 20th November 1858 the Elder Brethren had explained
that their reason for advising the use of a w-hite light as a warning
in that position w-as *' the light of coloured red to the westward,
" as proposed by the Commissioners," would not be visible at a
" sufficient distance.
On the 14th of December 1858 their Lordships intimated that
it would have been better if the sailing directions had been stated
to have been " proposed by the Trinity House, and approved by
** the Board of Trade." The light was exhibited on the 1st of
January 1859.
On the 20th the Commissioners called the attention of the
Board of Trade to ail article in the Nautical Jlagazine, in which
the Commissioners were blamed, and pointed out that the attack
made upon them, in fact advocated the view-s entertained by them
and expressed to my Lords.
On the 29th of January 1859 a reply was sent in which this pas-
sage occurs ; " My Lords see nothing in the article in question to
" make them alter their opinion deliberately formed after careful
" inspection of the spot by the Elder Brethren of the Trinity
" House and Captiin Sullivan, on grounds which my Lords believe
" are well known to the Commissioners."
It appears then from this correspondence that the Commissioners
of Northern Lighthouses were overruled, and that the character of
this light, and the height of the tower, and the sailing directions,
were all in accordance w-ith suggestions originating at the Board of
Trade, only partially adopted by the Trinity House, and directly
opposed to the view-s of the surveying officer on the station, and
the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses.
On the 20th of May 1859 Captain Bedford made the following
communication to the Commissioners :
*' My third, and most important item of information, has refer-
*' ence to the Islay light, and the infonnation I obtained from the
" master of the Colensay mail boat. He says the blending lights
" are distinctly seen by vessels passing to the westward of Oronsay,
" that about six weeks since he received information at Portaskaig
*' that two vessels in the above direction, following (1 presume) a
*^ general understanding, bore up for the Sound of Islay, on passing
" out of the red into the bright light, and only discovered their
*' error in time to prevent fatal consequences; this should be evi-
" deuce enough that tw-o vessels, in so short a space of time, on a
" coast frequented by few, should have been nearly wrecked, by
'* following the usual course indicated by distinguishing colours."
On the 24th of May the Commissioners informed the Board of
Trade, with this observation :
*' The Commissioners have already represented this matter so
'* strongly to my Lords, that they have no further observation to
" offer."
On the 1st of June 1859 their Lordships acknowledged the
receipt of the letter of the 24th.
The Lighthouse Commissioners after reading this Remarhs 0, 1:
correspondence, and having seen the lighthouse o\ev case of lili
the land of Oronsay from the -westward.-*, having studied ^ '"''■
the chart of the locality, and having seen the sea break-
ing heavily on rocks in the channel between Islay
and Oronsay, came to the conclusion that the views of
the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses on this
question were just. And they were confirmed in their g^^ oral <l
opinion on examining Captain Bedford subsequently dence.
while in the neighbourhood.
Ran for Oban and anchored.
July 2l3t. While the "Vivid" coaled, steamed round
Mull in the " Pioneer," questioned the pilots on board,
and the fishermen at lona, and had the account of the
Islay Pilot and of Captain Bedford fully confirmed
as to the fact that vessels have been lost on Dubh-
lartach. One man at lona stated that ho had himself
picked up cannon, which he had taken to Oban some
years ago. Called for Captain Bedford at Carsaie,
and finding that he was absent left a note for him.
On arriving at Oban heard the views of Jlr. Hutcheson,
owner of many Highland steamers, as to the building
of a lighthouse in the Sound of Jura, he was much in
favour of tlie Iron Rock as a site for a lighthouse. Mr.
McArthur also expressed a very strong opinion as
to the necessity of a lighthouse on the Sgeir Mhaol
(Iron Rock). Mr. Hutcheson stated his belief that
the present cause of delay in building the lighthouse
on the Iron Rock is a question of the expenditure of
3,000/. which the authorities at the Board of Trade
refuse to sanction. The Scotch engineer estimates
the expense at 9,000/. including a shore light ; Mr. H.
was owner of the " Chevalier " lost on this rock.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COSDIISSIONERS.
25
There are two black buoys in the harbour at Oban,
two spare buoys are kept on the beach, and it was
stated that these buoys are changed and overhauled
every three months. Observed the Lismore light-
house from the hill above Oban burning brightly, and
lit at the proper time.
57. SKERRY MHORE.— No. 101.
Picked up Captain Bedford at Carsaic and steamed
to Skerry Mhore passing through the Torren Rocks
at the end of the Ross of Mull ; landed at the light-
house ; it is built on a reef of low rocks larger than
the Scilly Bishops. The stone is granite from the
Ross of Mull, and the building -was pronounced the
finest yet seen ; a red flag was hoisted to indicate
that it was safe to land. It was suggested that this
should be altered, as red usually indicates danger.
The landing is by an iron ladder, and there are iron
ways fixed in the rock fi'om the landing place to the
foot of the building. These have withstood the sea,
and enable the keepers and persons bringing stores to
move about the rock much more easily than elsewhere,
where these ways are wanting. The ascent to the
door is by a gun-metal ladder instead of by metal
steps let into the stone as at the Scilly Bishops, or a
loose wooden ladder as at the South Rock in Ireland.
The first story of the building contains water
tanks for 1,300 gallons, the second coal tanks for 13
tons, the third is a workshop used for carpentering
and other occupations. The fourth story is a store-
room ; the fifth, a kitchen ; the sixth and seventh,
bedrooms ; the eighth, a library; the ninth, an oil
store containing 1 ,038 gallons ; and the lantern makes
the eleventh story. The bedrooms are divided into
two cabins each, there is a lamp which stands outside
and gives light to each through windows. The
cabins are fitted with oak, and have large looking-
glasses a foot square set in pannels ; the beds and
everything about the rooms were remarkably clean
and neat. The library is well furnished with hand-
some chairs, one from the Bell Rock. The lantern is
very lofty, and is surrounded by a gallery with gun
metal rail ; a dial is fixed on the outside. There is a
clock in the light room, and another below, all in excel-
lent order. There is a ladder of gun metal, and a light
rail outside the lantern for cleaning the glass ; there is
a lightning conductor. The illuminating apparatus is
revolving, fixed, prisms below, eight pannels of lenses
revolving, and eight smaller pannels also revolving
above, to concentrate the upper rays; these are thrown
on eight plane mirrors, which deflect them to the horizon
parallel to the rest of the beam. The light is, there-
fore, a fixed light of low power, varied by strong
revolving flashes ; the lamp has four wicks, and is
worked by pumps which ring a small bell while in
action. The lamp machinery is woupd up every
hour and a half, and the keepers wind the revolving
machinery at the same time, though it will go for
tliree hours. The superintendent was at the light-
house the day before to inspect the machinery.
The oil is hoisted up to the top of the tower by a
moveable crane. The water is pumped up by a force
pump ; the kitchen and all the rooms have bell signals
worked by blowing tubes, so that the keepers can call
each other without leaving the lantern.
There are two fog bells ringing every half minute.
These are supposed to be too near the gallery, they are
not heard at any great distance, but they were heard
on board the Vivid, distant about a mile.
There is a signal ball hoisted every morning to
indicate all's well ; there are other signals for shore,
and a book is kept showing them. There is a table cal-
culated for the latitude, giving theiours of lighting and
extinguishing for every day, and a picture of the flame
at its best, framed and glazed. There are three keepers
on duty, and one on shore, James Wallace, married, he
has six children ; John W. Hall, married, has nine
children ; William Mail, married, four children. Their
families live on shore in Tyree ; they have dwelling,
and cow's grass, and the chilrden go to school. The men
I. D
say that they are healthy, they have a medicine chest, Cndze of the
and use mostly salts and castor oil, but of these they take T'^"-'"'-
little. Wallace has been at Point of Ayre, Barra Head,
and he saw Skerry Mhore Light from Barra Head.
He pointed out that the granite, where exposed, is
going ; on rubbing the fingers on the stone, small
particles like sand crumbled away. Where the stone
has been oiled it is hai-d, and no sand can be rubbed
off". This was particularly shewn in the place whore
the weight goes up and down, and where contiguous
portions of the stone are oiled, and left in the natural
condition. The books kept are log book, visitors'
book, journal, return of shipwrecks (blank), store
book, inventory, (six,) all in good order. There is a
barometer and a thermometer ; no wind gauge, no
rain gauge. There was a machine for measuring tho
force of the waves, but it was abandoned as giving
unsatisfactory results. There is no life buoy, and
some of the keepers are unable to swim ; in fine
weather something of the kind might possibly save
life. The keepers catch a few fish, such as little cod ■'^'^''•
and rockfish. They occasionally see seals, and when Seats.
they come about the rock no fish are to be got. The Birds.
birds that kill themselves are blackbirds, thrushes,
starlings, and once a woodcock ; few are killed here.
The whole establishment was in a state of complete
efliciency, the men clean and dressed in their
uniforms, and everything under their charge in first-
rate order.
Vol. II, 177.
58. RUADH NA GALL, or SOUND OF
MULL.— No. 96.
Steamed into the Sound of Mull, and inspected the
lighthouse at the entrance. It is built on a point of
columnar basalt containing agates. The house of
brick whitened with stone mouldings. The keepers'
houses are at a considerable distance, and there is a
roadway over the rocks.
The light, dioptric holophotal, two wicks, red to
seaward, so as to distinguish it from the neighbouring
light of Ard na Murchan, green towards the opposite
shore, and white towards the Sound of Mull. The Azimuthat con-
beams to seaward and towards the sound are deiumig appa-
strengthened by a series of reflecting prisms which '"''"'•
deflect the light which would otherwise shine towards
the land and be lost. By this contrivance a light of
the fourth order is made equal to one of much greater
power, and a greater saving of oil is eilected. The
keepers are well lodged ; the tower is furnished with
the usual instruments, viz., clock, dial, telescope,
barometer, thermometer, rain gauge, lightning con- Instruments.
ductor. There is a workroom furnished with tools,
and the keepers are provided with a medicine chest,
though close to Tobarmoray. There is the usual
blow tube from the lantern to the dwelling houses ;
everything in first-rate order. Captain Bedford stated
that the green light did not appear sufliciently green
from the opposite shore.
59. ARD NA MURCHAN.— No. 97.
Landed Captain Bedford and steamed to Ard na
Murchan, landed on the rocks, and siu-prised the
keeper who had not observed the Vivid. The tower
is of granite and a beautiful building. The dwelling Kccvcrs
houses are at the foot, and are exceedingly comfort- d-eiUngs.
able ; there were the usual instruments, and every-
thing was in excellent order ready for lighting. Tho
light is dioptric, first order, with a mechanical lamp
fitted with the warning bell. Two large reflectors of
silvered glass turn all the light from the landward
side towards the sea. The metal fittings were inten-
tionally dark ; the bars of the lantern were thin and
set diagonally. There are two keepers, Henry
Murdoch and William Crouth, both married, the first
has no children, and was a f;irmer, the other has one
child, but he has been married only one year.
They stated that the large glass chimnies were not Glass chimnks.
all of one gauge. This has been remarked in all the
principal first-order lights visited iu England, Scot-
land, and Ireland. The tower was struck by light- ligktniiw.
Vol. II. U
26
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS. BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
CruUeofthc uintr some time ago, but no damage was done. The
Vivid. keepers see the light at Skerry Mliore occasionally ;
• ~ aecordi^n'T to calculation from the heights of the two
licrht* and tlie distance, 38 nautical miles, this should
be impossible, unless in consequence of some peculiar
refi-action.
Vol. II. 17S 60. ISLE ORONSAY.— No. 98.
Steamed to Isle Oronsay and observed the light in
the Sound of Mull. The beam which is projected down
the Sound of the Skye is very brilliant ; on entering
the beam, which projected northwards towards
Glenelg the increase of power was very marked, and
on entering the harbour the light disappeared sud-
denly at the point indicated by the drawings in
Azimuhal j^jj. Stevenson's Book. At 5 .a..m. landed at the bght-
ZvZTl house. It is the same in principle as that in the
'^^ ' ■ sound of Mull. The illuminating apparatus is of the
same description. Tiie onlv variety is m the number
of prisms and size of the lenses for the additional
beam which are calculated according to the distance
at which it is desirable to see the light. There are
seven prisms to the north, and twelve to the south.
This liglit and Ard na Murchan can be seen together.
Both keepers are married, the one has four children
the other six. Both have been in the service for a
lono- time. The whole establishment appeared to be
in a state of complete efficiency, and there were the
usual books, instruments and furnishing
Birds. The birds killed here are larks and starlings— very
few, not nearly so many as at Pladda, where numbers
were killed.
of the lisht. The keeper intends some night to take
out a couple of the lenses and watch the revolutions
from a neighbouring hill so as to judge of the differ-
ence, he was requested to communicate the result of
his experiment to the secretary. The reflectors in
this lighthouse were particularly bright and well
polishell. Both keepers are married, one has ten
children, the other two. One is from Caithness, the
other a native of Skye.
63. STOENOWAY.— No. 105.
Vol. II. 178.
61. KYLE AKINI.--N0. 99.
Steamed throu£li the narrows to Kyle Akm. It
was remarked tha't some buoys or beacons, or perhaps
a smaU light similar to those in Loch Foyle, would be
an improvement, as the narrows are dark for a con-
siderable distance.
Landed at the lighthouse at Kyle Akin, where the
keepers were all in bed ; roused them and found
everythino- according to the regulations ; lamp ready
for lighting, blinds down, and everything cleaned
up- tie usual instruments, &c. provided and in
o-ood order. This light has a set of totally reflect-
fno- pT-i^ms to economise the light and reflect a
portion of it to seaward. Towards the sound the
li<Tht is masked, all but a narrow beam, which acts
as" a leading light, and clears all shoals. To seaward
the lio-ht is red, and is masked from dangers and Irom
the shore. It was observed that the bars of the
lantern were so placed as to stop a considerable por-
tion of the light, and it was thought desireable,
that in future the lens and the lantern should be
made and set up together before they are finaUy placed
so as to avoid such imperfections.
The keeper stated that this light gave great satis-
faction, and enabled vessels to run in in bad weather,
instead of remaining outside, as they formerly used to
do, exposed to the hea^y sea which sets m from the
north. The house is of brick, whitewashed, with
stone foundation and mouldings; a bridge joins it to
the land. It was well kept.
Vol. II. 17t<-
62. RONA.— No. 100.
Vol. 11. U
Steamed for Rona ; landed outside the island and
walked up the rocks. There is a reflecting revolving
liglit situated at the north end of Rona. The house
and the dwelling houses near to each other, and pro-
vided with the same conveniences, instruments, &c.
as the other lighthouses of the Commissioners of
Northern lights. The reflectors have been altered so
JJohphfinl ^_, j^ economise the light. The small end of the para-
apparaius ^^^.^ reflectors has been cut off, and a hemispherical
reflector substituted : a small lens is placed so as to
intercept the rays which would otherwise diverge
part the edge of the reflectors. The result is said to
be a very considerable improvement in the intensity
Steamed round the north end for Stornoway.
Stopped opposite to the harbour lighthouse, and ex-
amined the " apparent light " on the rock at the
entrance to the harbour. The light itself is revolving
catadioptric. holophotal, on the same principle as
Rona, but with fewer reflectors. There are two
keepers. The house is of iron, lined with wood, all
but the upper part below the lantern, which is not
lined, and consequently is very cold in winter. The
reflectors were beautifully kept, and the brasswork
everywhere as clean as it could be made. The keeper
was observed to interpose the sleeve of his jacket
between his hand and the brass handle of the box in
which the revolving machinery is placed. In aU Beacon u-'d,
other respects the house was furnished, and fitted like apparent /i;
the others, and in equally good order. The peculiarity
of this light is the " apparent light," which consists
of a holophotal catadioptric single lamp placed in a
window .at the foot of the tower as to project a power-
ful beam on a mirror placed on the top of a beacon
in the sea. The light is reflected to seawards, and
dispersed by a lens placed in front of the mirror, so as
to five the effect of a light burning on the beacon.
The deception is so perfect that the fishermen will
not believe that there is not a light there.
The pilot on board has often seen it, but thinks it
is hardly powerful enough, though very useful.
People on shore at Stornoway stated that it was
very useful. The reflector behind the light is made
of zinc, and the keepers said that it was impossible
to keep it as bright as sUver. It was dark, and an
attempt to rub it brighter failed entirely. It is
not stated in Mr. Stevenson's account of the light
why the reflector is made of zinc. It appears to be
inferior to silver, but it is probably less expensive.
The keepers were dressed in their uniforms ; one was
formerly a veterinary surgeon, the other a joiner.
Both married. Both with considerable families.
After leaving, steamed out for Orkney, observed the
lights at the entrance, both were very brilliant ; made
a'turn to try to pick up the beacon light, but failed to
see it. There was some light still in the sky, but the
reflected light cannot have much power.
This light was subsequently observed by the secre-
tary on a very dark night from the steamer, leaving
Stornoway. It was visible at a distance of perhaps
half a mile, but the light was feeble ; it seemed about
equal to a single candle. There is a considerable
divergence in the beam thrown by the lower reflector,
for the light was seen for a considerable distance on
both sides^of the beacon in passing outside of it. The
arrangement might therefore be improved consider-
ably, but the principle is established. The beacon is
illuminated by a lamp on shore, at a considerable
distance, and the apparent light was actually seen at
a dist,ance sufficient to enable vessels to clear the
danger. ^^j /,n^f
Observed the Cape Wrath light at 30 miles. The
red and the white flashes were brilliantly visible and
easily distinguished from each other. The night was
very clear. The land of the Cape seen in the evening J
on entering Stornoway. I
July 24th, Sunday at j
64, 65. STROMNESS.— No. 114, 115. Vol. if <
25th, 3.30 a.m., landed at the large lighthouse. It
is of uncoloured stone. There is a smaller lighthouse
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
to the westward, and both ai'e intended to open Hoy
Sound. The larger lighthouse resembles that on
Ard na Murchan, and is a beautiful building. The
illuminating apparatus consists of three fixed reflec-
tors; one "holophotal" as large as a small herring
barrel, with a red glass in front showing in one
direction ; the other, a reflector of ordinary size,
showing in the other direction ; the third, a section
of a lens, with a section of a reflector behind it,
showing towards the harbour of Stromness, and across
the channel. There is no lightning conductor at
this house. There are no fog signals. The keeper
stated that he had never seen vessels near the light-
house when fog cleared away. There are the usual
books and instruments, and fittings, all in good order.
The head keeper's name is Peter Ure. He is married
and has one child. The assistant is unmarried. The
principal has been at Cape Wrath, Lismore, and Calf
of Man. He stated that the red light at Cape Wrath,
is produced by ordinary reflectors and red glasses.
Steamed through Hoy Sound, passed the Pentland
Skerries; it was considered too rough to attempt a
landing. Sighted Kinnaird lighthouse. Steamed for
Buchan Ness, and landed at 1 .20 p.m.
67. BUCHAN NESS.— No. 124.
The house is situated on a promontory, and sur-
rounded by a plot of ground belonging to the Com-
missioners. The light has been much praised by
witnesses. The apparatus consists of 24 reflectors,
fixed, three on a face. There is nothing peculiar in
their construction. They were extremely well
polished, and had not a scratch. The keepers' names
are Alexander Wallace, married, two children ; James
Tennant, married, five children. The principal has
served at the Bell Rock, Inchkeith, Cape Wrath,
Start Point. There are no fog signals. The keeper
had never seen vessels near in a fog. He has heard
the steam whistles of passing steamers. There were
the usual fittings, instruments, and books, all in order
and well kept. The dwelling houses were also
extremely neat, but it was thought that the colour of
the building was objectionable. The birds killed
here are starlings and blackbirds.
68. GIRDLE NESS.— No. 125.
Steamed for Aberdeen, and landed at Girdleness.
This has two lights in one tower. The lower light
consists of 13 lamps and reflectors, fixed in a gallery
round the outside of the tower, about half way up.
Each cleaning powder has a separate box, beautifully
cleaned, with the name of the material marked
outside. There is the usual box for holding chira-
nies. The reflectors were in excellent order. The
upper is a lens light, iii-st order, with a mechanical
lamp, and four wicks. A portion of the light is lost,
for want of a reflector on the landward side. The
machinery of the mechanical lamp appeared to be
slightly out of order, it worked with a jerk. There
are four keepers to this light. They are lodged in
houses originally intended for two. Three of the
keepers are married, one unmarried, one has four
children. They are obliged to make up a shelf for
two of them in a box bed, where they sleep above
others, and must sufler for want of air. There are
no fog signals here. In all other respects the house
is fitted and furnished like the rest, and is in very
good order. The keepers had not their unifoi-nis and
did not hoist their flag as others have done. It was
remarked that the colour of this lighthouse is not
clearly distinguished against the land.
Ran to Aberdeen to coal. Admiral Hamilton
and Mr. Gladstone landed and proceeded by rail to
Edinburgh.
Landed, and examined sundry witnesses.
The manager of the London and Aberdeen Steam
Company states that he had been manager for eight
years. He had never heard a complaint of the lights
and had never known anything wrong with them Cmize of the
during that time. Vivid
Mr. Kellasy of the Local Marine Board, has dis-
tributed 16 mariners' questions amongst the persons
who were considered best able to give information on
lights.
Mr. Rose, a large shipowner, has never heard any
complaint.
Mr. Campbell, master of a London steamer, has
sent in a return. He thinks that a light is wanted
on Thieves Holme, ofi^ Kirkwall, a masking on the
lights at Kinnaird Head and Buchan Ness, to indicate
the approach to Rattray shoal, and one at the East
Neuk of Fife.
The Harbour Commissioners had not begun to fill
up the returns sent in by the Lighthouse Commis-
sioners. They consist of 12 members elected annually
by householders and shipowners, and 19 who com-
pose the town council, and one ex officio Harbour
Commissioner. The two leading lights under their
charge are red when the harbour can be entered with
safety, green when it is dangerous. Formerly the lights
were extinguished when the harbour was dangerous.
Both these arrangements were sanctioned by the Com-
missioners of Northern Lighthouses, and the Harbour
Commissioners do not consider themselves responsible.
The former arrangement was much complained of.
The latter is approved of by the persons most in-
terested, but there seems to be no good reason for
departing from the rule that red indicates danger.
Mr. Reid, the Treasurer, has not heard any com-
plaints of lights. There are some complaints of
Rattray shoal.
69, 70. ABERDEEN. Vol. II. 3/2.
(Dr. Gladstone revisited these lights. See
Aberdeen.)
Visited the two leading lights. They are of iron,
with one light and reflector in each. The colour is
produced by coloured glass placed in front of the
reflectors. The signal for changing the colours is
given from the end of the pier by showing a light.
There are no boxes for keeping the cleaning
materials separate. All are consequently stowed
away together in small wooden ]3resses. The light-
keeper is paralytic ; his son looks after the lights.
He was never taught to clean the reflectors. He has
never been sent to Girdleness (within a mile) to see how
they are cleaned there. He was a carpenter, and the
reflectors under his charge and everything about the
place was in a condition far inferior to the lighthouse
under the Northern Lighthouse Commissioners.
(No returns have been furnished, they have been
repeatedly ashed for.) Embarked, and steamed for
Bell Rock.
71. BELL ROCK.— No. 126. Voi. II. 18".
On sighting the lighthouse, the day being grey, n^j^^j. gf
and hazy, the lower part of the house, which is dark, luiUing.
and the lantern, which was in shadow, were much
more easily seen than the central part of the building,
which is coloured white, and could hardly be seen at
all against the sky.
Observed a large boat leaving the lighthouse.
The rocks about the house were showing above
water. There are iron ways for landing. The
keeper stated that the sea rises 13 feet up the base of
the house. There is an excellent gun-metal ladder
fixed. The four keepers are married, and have six,
seven, three, and four children respectively. The head
keeper is John Sinclair. The first story is for coals,
the second for water, the next for oil, the next for
bed rooms, lighted as at Skerry Mhore, with berths
for six persons. The next room is the kitchen, above
that the sitting room, in which is a marble bust of
Stevenson, the engineer, placed there by the Com-
missioners, with a marble slab, on which their Minute
is engraved.
The light is revolving, five reflectors on each of , ,. ,
two faces, two red and two white. The red colour is '•''
produced by chimnies of red glass, which appear to
T) 2
28
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS ;
Cruize of the \^ mucL more convenient and should be less expen-
^''"'' sive than the large covers of coloured glass used
elsewhere. The lantern and all in it was in very
good order. The reflectors well cleaned, and the
books properly and neatly kept. The visitors' book
contained the names of a large party who had visited
the light that afternoon, and had dined there. The
manner of the head keeper gave rise to some doubts
of his being sober; a correspondence followed with
the Commissioners of Korthern Lighthouses, which
ended in the man being continued in his post.
Birds. There are very few birds killed here. Thrushes
and blackbirds occasionally in winter. The keepers
catch a few fish. It appeared that this house was
not quite so clean as some of the other rock stations.
Steamed in for
Vol. II. .3S.1. '^2, 73, 74, 75. DUNDEE.
July 27.— Landed at Dundee. Jlet Mr. Walsh,
formerly master of the Trinity House, who stated
that the secretary was absent. It subsequently
appeared that the secretary was unwell.
Oral ciidcnce. Captain John Speck, master of the pilots, said he
had never had a complaint of anything. He had
never heard of any irregularity in the Bell Eoek
Light. It is a very good one. He has had con-
siderable experience of the cast coast. He thinks
that a light on the Carr Eock would be of advantage,
• several vessels have been ou shore on it. He has
often heard the bell on the Bell Eock.
There is no uniform system of tide signals at the
Scotch ports.
Captain William Lee, commanding one of the
London steamers, thinks something should be done
to clear Eattray Eriggs to the North, where he
formerly traded.
Mr. James Simpson thinks the Carr rock wants a
small light. Has no difficulty at the Cross sands.
Thinks the harbour light very good.
William Beattie thinks there should be a small
light on the Carr rock. There is often a haze on the
Isle of May.
July 30 Visited the lights under the charge of
this local authority. See Dcsdee Local Authoritie.s,
Scotland.
Landed the master of the corporation, and steamed
for the
Vol. n. leg. 76. 77. ISLE OF MAY.— No. 127.
Observed the beacon on the Carr rock. Landed
at the Isle of May. There are tno lights ; the upper
dioptric, first order,- the second on that principle sot
up in Scotland. The lower and upper beams of light
are directed by mirrors, which are much spoiled.
The glass is very green. The house was built in
1816. There are three keepers, two of whom are
married. They have large families, who are educated
by their parents, and are occasionally sent ashore for
a time.
They are very well lodged, and besides there is a
large room and some bed rooms which have occasion-
ally been occupied by gentlemen who had orders
from the Commissioners of Northern Lights. The
whole island is the propertj' of the Commissioners.
It was purchased, with the lighthouse thereon, for
60,000/. from the Duke of Portland.
There are the usual fittings, instruments, and books,
all in good order.
liirds. The birds killed here are starlings, thru.shes,
blackbirds, woodcocks, and small land birds. No sea
birds ever kill themselves. The water is indiflcrent.
The lower light is arranged for clearing the Carr
rock. It has one reflector. A room below is occu-
pied by one keeper, who goes to bed. The keeper
in the upper light observes the lower through a pane
of glass on the landward side, and if he sees anything
wrong he has a bellows whistle, by means of which
he can rouse tlic otlior at a distance of about three
hundred yards, by sounding a large whistle at the
head of the bed. He stated that he never had occa-
sion to rouse the keeper, as he had never known the
lower light to go wrong since it was first exhibited.
July 27. — The mechanical lamp on the contrary
requires careful watching and constant attention.
The fishermen consider the lower light to be brighter
than the upper when they are within its range.
This may be accounted for by the inferior quality of
the glass, the damaged condition of the mirrors, and
the distribution of the light round the whole horizon.
Perhaps also by the haze which frequently settles on
the Isle of May.
Steamed into the Firth of Forth, passing the Bass
rock, and anchored at 8'20 opposite to Granton
pier.
The result of this d.iy's observations is very much in
favour of the lights of the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses, as compared with the smaller autho-
rities, and of the Dundee lights as compared with
Aberdeen.
Admiral Hamilton and Mr. Gladstone visited the Edinburgh.
office of the Northern Commissioners, and in the
evening went to the establishment of Messrs. Milne
and Son, Milton House, Canongate, in company with
Messrs. Thomas and David Stevenson. Here they
saw a new holophotal light in action. It gave a
very good light as seen from Salisbury Crags, the
distinction of the white and red colours being perfect.
Amongst other explanations given by Mr. D. Steven-
son in reference to the machinery at Messrs. Milnes,
he stated that small lanterns are now made of cast
iron, but large lanterns of gun metal, which they
prefer to wrought iron. The astragals are now made
to cross one another diagonall}". Although a silver
reflector is doubtless the best, a comparative expe-
riment made on Inchkeith with a silver, a zinc, and
a brass reflector showed no great difterence in the
light reflected, except as to its colour. The Northern
Commissioners employ a very dark red glass, not the
ruby.
July 28th. — Among the pieces of information given
by the Messrs. Stevenson in the course of conversation
were the following : — Some samples of colza oil cor-
rode brass work, but the pure substance does not. It
is not known what is the corrosive ingredient. It is
proposed to employ bricks in the erection of the Butt
of Lewis Lighthouse ; specimens of these bricks were
exhibited, having a conchoidal fracture, and exceed-
ingly hard. The mortar to be used is composed of
sand, lime, and '• mine dust," that is scalings of iron ;
gneiss is considered preferable to granite for building
purposes, as it does not disintegrate when exposed to
the air and seawater, as many granites gradually do.
It is difficult to mask a catoptric light sharply, for
obvious reasons, and this constitutes one of the advan-
tages of the dioptric system. Slate roofs have been
adopted for many of the recently built keepers houses
at the instance of the Board of Trade, but they let in
wet, and are greatly inferior to the leaden roofs, which
the Northern Commissioners prefer.
29th. — Visited the Office of the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses in Edinburgh, the Secretary
and several of the members were absent on their
annual tour of inspection ; Mr. L'rquhart, and the
engineer of the Commissioners, Mr. Stevenson, and
his brother were at the office. The papers in prepa-
ration for the Commission were shown, the most
difficult and tedious are those relating to the income
of the various lights. They will still take a consider-
able time to complete. After a long interview with
the gentlemen of the Northern Lighthouse Office the
Comiuissioners visited the establishment of Mr. !Milne,
and inspected a new revolving light, constructed by
Mr. ]Milne from the designs of Jlr. Stevenson, of glass,
manufactured in Paris, for Newfoundland. The appa-
ratus consists of 12 holophotcs, arranged on four faces,
four on each of two siiles to show red, with red glass
chimnies, two on the remainder to show white.
The holophotal arrangement consists of a hemi-
spherical reflector, with a lens and reflecting prisms
placed in front. The lamp slides down to be cleaned,
and can never be wholly removed from its frame.
PEESONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
29
The reflectors lift out, but the glass remains fixed to
the revolving frame. The whole rests on a series of
rollers, and is moved hj a small toothed wheel, work-
ing a largo one on the circuniforcnco of the frame,
which is larger than usual. By these arrangements
Mr. Stevenson secures great steadiness of motion, and
solidity. The quantity of oil consumed was stated to
bo considerably less than that burned in a large me-
chanical lamp.
A letter was written expressing the liope of the
Commissioners that the man at the Bell Rock might
not be punished, and praising the rest of the esta-
blishments inspected in Scotland.
The Commissioners inspected the storehouses at
Granton. The superintendent of the buoy establish-
ment stated that he had charge of the whole service.
There are four depots for buoys, namely, at Granton,
Corran Ferry, Campbelton, and Cromarty.
As full particulars regarding this branch of the
service will be furnished oflSciall}', it was not thought
necessary to take notes of all that was said by this
officer.
The establishment was in good order. The spare
buoys newly painted were ranged under cover. The oil
for the lighthouses was stored in the casks in which it
is sent to tlie different stations, instead of tins as used
by the Trinity House. Tlie oil is run out of the
casks into .■stationary tins, and the empty casks arc
returned.
Admiral Hamilton and Mr. Gladstone called on the
Lord Provost, as one of the most influential members
of the Board of Commissioners of Northern Lights,
and had a short conversation with him.
78. GEANTON PIER.
The Commissioners inspected the light at Granton
Pier Head. It is a reflecting light, with an ordinary
parabolic reflector, and shows through a window of
red glass. Embarked on board the " Vivid," and
steamed to
79. LEITH PIER HEAD.
Landed and inspected the lighthouse. There is a
tide gauge here, a line moved by a floa* shows to the
keeper inside the depth of water at Leith Docks, and
indicates the signal to be hoisted. The signals for
day are flags and a ball. The flags arc stifi'ened by
wires so as to be visible in calms. At night the
depth is indicated by coloured lights produced by
sliding small panes of red and green glass in front of
a gas burner, and behind a small buU's-eye lens, near
the foot of the tower. The light is under the Leith
Harbour Commissioners. The keeper is furnished
with a clock, a barometer, thermometer, and speak-
ing trumpet, all in good order. He keeps a register,
also in good order. The upper light is a small holo-
photal, made in Paris, on the principle of Mr. Stevenson.
The light is gas, which occasionally goes out, and
varies in intensity with the pressure on shore, as the
shop lights, &c. are turned on and off. (This is one
of the objections stated by Mr. Stevenson to the use
of gas in lighthouses.) The reflector is of zinc,
inferior to silver, but cheaper and sufficient for this
position. The ventilation is said to be deficient
The glass inside "fogs" easily, that is to say it con-
denses the moisture produced by the combustion of
the gas, which is not carried away with sufficient
quickness. There is a spare oil lamp in case anything
should go wrong with the gas, so p~s to render it
useless. The met.al fittings of the lens are bright.
The engineer of the Northern Lighthouse Commis-
sioners stated yesterday that the ])ractise of scouring
the backs of the reflectors and metal fittings of lenses
has been abandoned, as it increases the risk of injury
to the optical portion of the apparatus, without adding
to its efficiency.
There are two keepers at Leith Light, one always
in attendance. The establishment was in an etficieut
condition, and very neatly kept.
D
80. INCH KEITH,— No. 128. Cruize of the ■
Vivid.
Landed at Inch Keith. This is built on the top
of the island. The building is a very handsome one. Vol. II. 188,
and the dwelling houses very comfortable and very
neatly kept. There is a room called the visiting
officers room, very neatly furnished, and reserved for
the use of the officers of the Commission. The island
is the property of tlxo Duke of Buccleuch. The head
keeper, formerly a sailor, has been at various stations,
including the Bell Rock. The assistant and principal
are both married. The light is furnished with the
usual instruments, fittings, means of communication
from the light room, &c. (It was explained by the
engineer that the whistles were provided to obviate
any necessity for leaving the lantern while the light is
burning. Every keeper is bound to remain con-
stantly at his post in the lantern during his watch.)
The light is revolving, of" built " lenses on a revolving
frame, and a set of stationary mirrors above, none
below. The mirrors are much damaged, and the
whole apparatus, like that .at the Isle of Man, is old
and inferior to the more modern lights. (The en-
gineer stated that the Commissioners had often
thought of renewing the apparatus at these lights,
but they were restrained by the anticipation of objec-
tions to the expense). There is an experimental
lantern close to the lighthouse, visible from Edin-
burgh. Some experiments are to be tried with red
glass shortly, meantime there is nothing in the
lantern.
Steamed past the Bass Rock and St. Abb's Head,
failed to observe any indications of the new light-
house in the latter place.
81. BERWICK. Vol. H. 294
Observed the light at Berwick Pier Head. See
Berwick local authorities, Scotland, for the observa-
tions on this light, which was mucli approved, and
to which Mr. Stevenson specially directed the atten-
tion of the Commissioners.
July 30th. Anchored for some hours at Berwick.
Observed the Longstone Light ; was informed that
the Fern Island was hardly ever seen, distant 16 miles.
England.
82. FERN ISLAND.— No. 1.
Landed at the Fern Island Lights at half past five
a.m. There are two lights in separate buildings coloured
white. The larger building has 7 reflectors, ordinary
parabolic. They were very well cleaned, liut show
only one on each face. The outer light on the Long-
stone has three on each face. It seems then that one
parabolic reflector very well cleaned can very rarely
he seen at Berwick, distant 16 miles, but that three
can generally be seen. This was the case when ob-
served last night, the weather being clear and the
night dark. The cleaning boxes and all within the
keeper's department were iu good condition, but the
revolving machinery was out of order, and was gene-
rally of inferior workmanship to the lights lately
seen. The Elder Brethren visited the light on the
29th, and left orders for a man from London to visit
the light and repair the machinery. The keeper is
provided with a thermometer and a telescope, he has
a medicine chest, and there is a lightning conductor.
But there was no rain gauge ; no fog signal ; no
blow tubes communicating with the lantern. The
boolcs kept are an order book and a register. The iris,, Scotch
other books kept at a Scotch lighthouse are not kept and English
here. One diftbrence then in the services is that in LigMEstablish-
tho Scotch Service, every lighthouse is provided with ""■"'« compared.
the same instruments and fittings, and comforts and
conveniences. That the English lights are variouslj'
provided in various situations, and are rarely furnished
with many articles, always provided in the Scotch
lights, such as the call whistle. That the Irish
lighthouses visited are not provided with meteorolo-
gical instruments or medicine chests, or lightning
conductors, or libraries, or call whistles, or printed
3
30
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Cruiieo/the framed regulations, or uniforms tor the men, or
Hvid. clocks. DP dials, or with any thing not absolutely
— required for keeping the light burning and the appa-
ratus clean.
Vol. II. ti5. 83. FERN LOWER LIGHT.— No. 2.
The lower light has one reflector, and shows to
the northward. The two lights in one indicate
a passage, but they must show almost directly over
a large rock iu the middle of it.
There are three keepers. The one on watch
attends to both lights, and has to walk a consider-
able distance from house to house during the night.
At Inch Keith, where there is a similar arrange-
ment, one of the three keepers sleeps in the lower
lighthouse, which the keeper on duty in the upper
light observes from the lantern ; if anything goes
wrong he can at once rouse the sleeping keeper
without leaving his own post by working a hand
bellows attached to a tube, which blows on and rings
a bell at his ear.
„^^j The birds killed at Fern Island are blackbirds,
thrushes, and ducks, &c. not many.
The island is columnar basalt. There are many
rabbits on it. There is an old chapel restored, and a
ruin converted into a dwelling, where clergymen from
Durham occasionally reside for short periods. Ran
out to the
^■°'- "• *''' 84. LONGSTONE.— No. 3.
buildiii "^^^ tower is painted red. Landed with some
difficulty in consequence of the strong tide, which the
boat could hardly make way against. The head
keeper is William Darling, whose story is so well
known. The assistant is his son. They complained
of the smoke in the lower dwelling house. The
apparatus is revolving, 12 parabolic reflectors showing
three on each of four faces. All were in excellent
condition, though old and getting worn out. The
exterior of the lantern is cleaned by mounting move-
able wooden steps, which rest on the external gallery.
In all the Scotch lighthouses there is a fixed metal
stair up to a light metal gallery, which runs all round,
and handles to hold on by while cleaning the glass.
The metal steps extend to the highest point in the
roof. This arrangement is certainly preferable,
though the moveable wooden ladder is less expensive.
Gracf Darliny. The whole of this establishment is in excellent order,
clean and neat, filled with memorials of Grace
Darling. The father explained what had occurred
on the occasion of the wreck of the Forfarshire, and
pointed out the localities from the tower. He said
that his daughter had died of a decline, and that in
his opinion her end had been accelerated by anxiety
of mind, which he explained by saying that so many
ladie.s and gentleman came to see her, that she got no
rest. Steamed to
Vol. II. 66. 85. COQUET ISLAND.— No. 4.
Colour of The nuilding is a square tower coloured white, with
building. Castellated dwelling houses about it similarly coloured,
(The Scotch lighthouses are nearly all left of the
natural colour of the stone of which they are built, and
in many cases it is exceedingly difficult to make out
the building against the land. Here were three light-
houses close to each other variously coloured. Red
on the outer rock where the building must be .seen
against the sea or sky, and white where it is to be
sesu ai^ainst the hand. In this the Scotch system
aj pears to be somewhat faulty.) The building is
very handsome and very convenient, beautifully dean
and neatly kept. The head keeper is Darling, brother
of the renowiii'd Grace. The optical apparatus is
one half of a first-rate dioptric light on the Fresnel
system. A narrow strip of red glass on either side
shews proximity to two rocks to the north and south.
A dark patch on the glass masks the light from the
dangers, and at the back a light shews into the road-
stead from the lamp alone. This arrangement is Catoptric and
verv simple, and gives satisfaction ; it illustrates the ^"V'^"' "ppa
advantage of using lens lights for such situations as '■'"'""'™^''"'
explained by Mr. Stevenson in his conversation with
the Commissioners on this subject at Edinburgh.
There is no arrangement of reflectors by which this
variation in character could be so easily and so
eftectively given, and nothing could more clearly
demonstrate the evil that must result from the
position of the bar on the window at Berwick Pier
light, which acts precisely as the screen acts here.
Ran into the Tyne and up to Newcastle. Called \o\ ii_ 34*
at the Office of the Trinity Board, saw the secretary
and ran out again. Found that the tide was falling .
fast, so ran for Sunderland, and got into dock just in ^ °^' ^^- ^°"
time.
July 31. — Sunday. Remained in dock.
Up to this point the Commissioners have inspected
or have seen 80 light establishments. Many of the
lights inspected were also seen alight.
August 1. — The Commissioners landed at Sun-
derland. The Vivid with the secretary on board
started at 10 a.m.. and anchored at 8'30 p.m. at
Hull.
Captain Allen being anxious to get in before dark,
none of the lighthouses passed were visited. Blowing
hard and a considerable sea on at Flamborough Head.
August 2. — Examined pilot master at Hull.
He said the lights in the Humber are good, and did Vol. II. 31(
not wish for any change. Orfordness, Cromer, and ■j lio-hts see
Winterton are bad to see in fogs. I never could „ . _.,
mistake the floating lights for ships' lights. " Oh !
no, I never knew such a thing to happen." The
floating lights are very good in the Humber, dioptric
and catoptric lights. I don't know much about them.
The South Foreland new (electric) light is the best I .
ever saw. I saw it from Kentish Knock, about 40
miles. I could not then see the lower (catoptric
light), I thought it was a star.
Examined Thomas Lewis, master of the Vigilant,
at the hotel. He said all the lights on the east coast
are good, Hazeborough is, perhaps, a little low. A
light would be useful on the Cross Sand End. The
river Humber is very well lighted and buoyed. They
are as good as can be, I never heard a complaint. It
is all good all the way to London.
"Buoys would be of no use on the way to Goole.
The sands alter every spring tide."
Messrs. Kriiger and W. G. Martlett, commanders
of steamers in the merchant service, bore unqualified
testimony as to the equality of the British lights
with those of any foreign country. The former men-
tioned those in the Gulf of Finland, and the latter,
that at Dunkirl; as equal to the English. Mr.
Kriiger had frequently observed the revolving light
on Flamborough Head at a considerable distance when J^cd liyht.
the red flashes are not seen, but the light presents the
appearance of two white flashes separated by rather a
long interval from two similar flashes. The Humber
is well buoyed and lighted but a light on the Haile
would be valuable. Some of the Commissioners then
visited the enclosed dock and inspected theSp.ire Light
ship. The rest questioned several other captains and
pilots. For remarks on the Humber Lights see Hui.L. y^^j jj 3J
93, 94. SPURN.— Nos. 9, 10.
Vol. II. I
August 3. — At 7 a.m. landed at Spurn. The Colour of
larger tower is of brick, coloured red, enclosed within budding.
a circular wall, which also encloses the dwellings, and
a paved court with small gardens. The smaller tower
is coloured white, and stands within high water mark
on a foundation of piles and concrete. Both are
situated on a long spit of land with bent growing on
it, and to seaward there is a chalk wall with piles to
keep off" the encroachment of the sea. Everything
about this establishment, which is under the Trinity
House of London, is in excellent condition. The
houses are large, roomy, well found, and very neatly
kept. The lighthouses scrui)ukiusly clean, and every
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
31
Call whistles.
I
lolourvf
building.
Experiment
with photometer.
Vol. II. 110.
Colour of
building.
Evidence.
Catoptric (I lid
Dioptric
Dioptric appa
ratut afloat.
bit of metal, even the bars of the lantern, scoured
bright. The usual meteorological instruments and
registers are kept. There is a medicine chest ; a
lightning conductor ; the upper light is dioptric, first
order ; the same len.s that ^^■as shewn at the exhibition
of 1851, fixed, with a fountain lamp. The lantern has
the diagonal bars. The dome is white inside. The
lantern is cleaned outside by niounting a moveable
wooden ladder instead of the fixed stage aud steps
used in Scotland. There are no communicating tubes
from the rooms or from the lighthouse as in Scotland.
There are three keepers, and the one on watch has to
walk from lighthouse to lighthouse during the night.
The plan pursued at Inch Keith and elsewhere in
Scotland appears better. There one keeper watches
both lights, and can summon a keeper who sleeps in
the distant lighthouse without moving from his own
post in the larger lantern.
In these particulars this firsl-rate English establish-
ment is inferior to the first-class Scotch stations. In
other respects it would be difficult to find a better
lighthouse better kept.
The lower light is a small dioptric light, 5tli
order, equally well kept. The house is joined to the
sand by a wooden stage. On leaving these lights
observed the red and white towers with the photo-
meter, both showing against a cloudless sky a slight
purple haze on the horizon, and the sun shining
brightly from a point behind the observer, and not
far from the horizon. The sky behind the red tower
was lost, and that tower became invisible at 2'10.
The white tower and the chalk wall at the edge of
the sea were lost at 2-30. The white was, therefore,
more clearly seen, because there was then more light
reflected from it than from the sky beyond it.
Boarded the
95. SPURN FLOATING LIGHT No. 1.
The master has been thirty years on this station
which is within a few miles of the Spurn lighthouses.
He stated that in hazy or dark weather he can often
see the red lighthouse when he cannot make out the
white one at all. It seems that white is best seen in
bright sunny weather, even against the sky, but that
dark colours are best seen against the sky in dark or
hazy weather.
The master also stated that the light on Spurn
Point had been very much improved by the change
(from catoptric to dioptric), though he was quite
ignorant of the nature of the change, having never
visited the lighthouse. He stated that the small light
did not show very well which he attributed to its
proximity to the large and very powerful light beside
it. The light-vessel also belongs to the London
Trinity House. The crew were mostly below and
were taken by surprise, but the vessel was scrupu-
lously clean. The light is revolving. There are
four reflectors, which with the lamp are hung upon
gimbles. They were very well cleaned and had
fewer scratches than are usually found on the reflec-
tors of floating lights. The lamplighter explained
that scratches are often produced by portions of the
charred wick falling on the silver. These, as he
expressed it, cut like a knife, and unless removed
with great care, injure the reflector. He did not
think that sand could get at them at sea ; he thought
that salt water might, and might produce some injury.
It was observed that the machinerj' for the revolving
light worked very loosely, the cogs worked nearly
out of gear by the motion of the vessel. Remarking
on this, the master stated that the Elder Brethren, on
their late visit had noticed the same, but a great diffi-
culty occurs in rectifying this, for on tightening the
cogs the machine, from its small power, would fail to
work and interfere with the regular revolving of the
light.
It seems to be well worth consideration whether
small dioptric apparatus could not be substituted for
catoptric on board vessels, such a lamp as is used at
the Lower Spurn Land Light would hardly weigh
more than the apparatus hoisted by the lightships. Cruizaofihe
It could be swung on gimbles, and it might be Vivid.
lowered down a hollow mast like the funnel of a
steamer. Salt water would not act on the glass, and
unless broken to pieces the lens would be much less
liable to injury than the reflectors which seem to be
more or less injured on board of all the lightvessels,
.and which, according to Mr. Wilkins, the manufac-
turer, wear out much sooner afloat than on shore.
The master stated that his vessel rides very easily,
" she has the full long sea from the German Ocean." ,57-^^^
It seems then that the more exposed the station the
easier it is for riding in, provided the water be deep.
The master from the Hebbles far up the Humber,
found a worse sea than he had ever found in his 60
voyages across the Atlantic. The master at the Bull See Hull:
complained more than than the master at the Spurn. Vol. II. 317.
and the master at the Owers complained more of his
station than did the master at the Seven Stones, who
said that his vessel rode easily over the long seas of
the Atlantic. The master at the Blackwater made
a similar statement. Steamed for
96. CROMER.— No. 12.
Landed, and walked up to the lighthouse, on a high
promontory. The old lighthouse is still .standing
close to the edge of the cliff. It was abandoned
because it was feared that the cliflT would fall. The
new tower is built some distance inland, it is painted
white and has comfortable dwellings attached.
The light is revolving, ten reflectors on each of
the three sides. There are the long tubes from above
the lamps to carry off the smoke and other products
of combustion. j?he dome is white inside. The re-
flectors were in in good order, and the whole esta-
blishment clean and neat except where the painters
were at work.
The Hazeburgh light, and the Leman and Ower
floating light, are seen from here, distant about 1 2miles.
In heavy^ weather, the keeper remarks, that the
floating light dips, and occasion.ally disappears when
the vessel rolls in the sea. The revolving machinery
went out of order some years ago by the breaking of
the rope. The keeper kept the lamps moving by hand
till the rope was mended. The reflectors are wear-
ing out, some are 37 years old, and are better than
those which are 27. The copper is showing here and
there through the silver.
The glass chimneys break according to the
weather, sometimes three or four dozen a mouth.
They vary in size very much, some have to be re-
turned as useless. The reflectors are moved from
their frame when cleaned. This was considered ob-
jectionable by Mr. Stevenson, who thinks that re-
flectors should, if pos.sible, never be moved from their
frames to avoid any change in their position. There
is a lightning conductor, and the usual books (Trinity
House), and instruments all in good order. There is
no medicine chest, as the light is so near the town of
Cromer. The agent resides at Cromer, and has
charge of one lighthouse.' There are two keepers,
both married. The head keeper was formerlv a car-
penter, he has been 22 years in the .service. His
grandfather used to keep a coal light at this station,
and used to consider it very hard work. The outside
of the lantern is cleaned by ascending a moveable
ladder. The sand blows up, and that circumstance
may in some measure account for sundry scratches
on the reflector. Sighted HAZEBOROUGH, two
towers, both white.
97. COCKLE.— No. 7.
Boarded the Cockle Lightship. She is of wood,
painted red, shorter than the Irish light vessels, and
sloping outward, flames above. No witnesses out
of the first 500, have mentioned that this vessel has
been adrift. The master stated that she had been
twice adrift, in 1849 and November 1856 as nearly as
he can remember. There was a very heavy gale from
Vol. II. -0.
n 4
32
APPENT)IX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOTS, AXD BEACOXS :
Uruize of the
Vivid.
Lightvessel
adrijl.
Model of vessel.
Cleaning
rejicctois.
the N.N.W. on. both occasions, and the ressel was
brought up ahnost immediately with his spare anchor.
She would otherwise have been lost on the sands.
In similar weather and lee tide, the master and one
man always remain on deck with axes handy, to cut
the spare anchor adrift. On both the occasions the
chain broke on deck.
The master thinks the vessel would ride easier if
she were longer. Tliis light is revolving, she has
four reflectors which were in such good order that
the lamplighter was requested to show his process of
cleaning them; he first put on a canvas apron, he
then selected from a particular box a clean white
cloth with which he wiped the inside of the
reflector, which he held against his breast carefully
avoiding to touch the ' silver with his hand. He
next dusted some rouge over the silver from a linen
bag, which acted as a kind of sieve, and the cleaning
was finished with a leather taken from another box
used for that purpose only. There was nothing
peculiar in the process, and the man could see no
reason why reflectors should be more scratched at sea
than on land. Everything on board this vessel,
especially the place set apart for cleaning the reflectors,
was scrupulously clean. The decks as white as those
of a man-of-war. Many vessels run foul of the
Cockle, one did last May. The master is a Yarmouth
man. He says he often foresees a gale by noticing
the sea coming in before the gale begins. This was
stated by the keepers of the Irish light vessels, where
barometers are not provided. This ship had the
usual instruments, books, &c., all kept in good order.
Ran in to Lowestoft, landed pilot and took in another
4 lights seen, for Yarmouth at 8 p.m., observed Stamford Lightship,
Lowestoft High Light, Lowestoft Low Light, and
two PIER LIGHTS. All ill sight at the same time and
all burning brightly.
Vol. II. 73. 112. PAKEFIELD Xo. 18.
Observed Pakefield red Light at 8.20 p.m. Ijright,
it opened at the point indicated by the chart, and
guided the vessel through a narrow passage. Shortly
afterwards observed the lights on
Vol. II. 74. 113, 114. ORFOEDNESS.— Nos. 19, 20.
right a-head. The low light was decidedly much
brighter than the hi.sh light. The pilot on board
said, '• We always see the low light first." One of these
is dioptric, and the other catoptric. The pilot was
unable to give any information as to which was the
lens light, and stated that the diflerence between
them was that one was to the castioard of the other.
Calnptric and Stopped opposite the lights and endeavoured to test
Dioptric appa- them with the photometer, but failed to get any
ratus compared, pj.jiaijij, measurement, as the high light appeared to
change in intensity as the vessel drifted.
Steamed for Harwich and watched the Orfordiiess
lights till the lower was lost beneath the horizon or
behind the land, at about 13 miles at that distance, off
Harwich ; both lights were verj" bright seen from the
bridge, and the diflerence between them was much
less marked than from the northward. The low
light appeared to be whiter than the other, and was
seen through a greater thickness of the photometer
all along. Both these lights are excellent. The low
light is clearly the best as seen from the nortli, and
sliglitly the best as seen from tlie south at a distance
of 13 miles and under. From the point where the
Orfordness lights were last seen, eight lights were
visible at once, each showing some particular channel,
all burning brightly and easily distinguished from
each other. These v.-eiv the Ship Wash and C'okk
vessels, the Guxkleet revolving red, the distinctness
of this light was very remarkable, showing at that
range a brilliant red, the two Okfokdness lights,
and three HAR^v^cH IIakuouu Lights.
The changes of colour and position in these last,
as the vessel ran iuto the harliour guided by them
were remarkably rapid and distinct, a fourth light
appeared on entering the harbour, which changed
with equal rapidity from white to red, .and to white
again as the vessel passed tlie shoal which it indi-
cated. (From the returns it appears that the loteer
Orfordness liglit is the dioptrie.)
llo, 116, 117, ll'i. IIAKWICIL— Xos. 21, 22, 23. Vol. 11.75, Tf
August 4. — Landed to inspect the harbour lights.
Jlr. Yaux, a shipowner and builder, stated that the
spit at the mouth of the harbour has extended so far
as to make the present position of the lights somewhat
objectionable. The lights have not been changed for
nine years, and the spit has altered considerably. The
two lights in one, formerly led clear of the spit, they
now lead directly over it, and the rapid changes of
colour observed last night are intended to guide
vessels clear of the danger. He thinks that the
position of the lights should be changed. The keeper
subsequently stated that several plans had been
talked of, one to remove the lights to another position
altogether, another to make the outer light a moveable
one on wheels, a third to construct a beacon on the
spit and to illuminate it with an " apparent light.'
This last proposal ori.£:inated in the town, the others
were the schemes of the Trinity House who have
charge of the lights. Inspected the H.'.nwicH High
Light. It is in a white tower with comfortable
dwellings attached and within it. There are two
lights in the tower. The lower consists of a single
Argand burner with a section of a large lens showing
through a narrow opening towards the spit end. One
strip of this lens is left clear and shows the passage,
the rest is coloured red by a strip of glass, and shows
the approach to the spit. When a vessel is inside
the spit, another light on the opposite side of the
harbour appears and leads in. A portion of the light
of a lamp is deflected by a section of a silvered reflector
and shows through a window when vessels reach a
particular part of the harbour. By this arrangement
a portion of the light is lost, but from observation
enough is used.
The U]iper light has nine lamps and reflectors set
in a hollow curve as at Lynas, near Liverpool. The
lamps have long chimneys to the ventilator. Some
of these are forty years old. They are in very good
condition and very well kept. Some marks were
attributed either to old hammer marks nearly worn
out, or to the points of glass from broken chimneys
falling on the silver. The keeper stated that he could
mark the silver with his nail. This remark shows
the extreme care required to preserve reflectors in
their present state of efiiciency.
There are three keepers, all married. The head
keeper is 74 years of age, and was attached to the
light when it belonged to General Eebow. Tie Coal fres a
remembers the burning of coal fires at this station (^""st lights.
when he was a boy. The coals were burned in a
grate, to which a pair of bellows were attached.
The light-keeper was exposed to all weathers, and
had to poke the fire, throw on coal, and blow the
bellows when necessary all in the open air. Obser-
vations are now taken and a register kept of the
Gunfleet and Cork lightvessels through three glasses
similar to those used at some of the lighthouses on
the West Coast of England. The keeper stated that
he could occasionally see the lights through more
than three glasses, but that the Gunfleet had been
invisililc from fogs for three weeks at a time.
Harwich Low Light, at a short distance from the
other tower and nearer the sea, has three reflectors
outside a curve. The lamps have the usual long
chininies. and in addition an apparatus for condensing
the water produced by the combustion. The ventila- '
tion in these lighthouses is well attended to, and there
are the usual books and instruments kept. The whole
establishment is exceedingly well kept, the reflectors
especially. The keeper could give no reason why
reflectors at sea should be more scratched than on
land. One keeper watches all night in the high
PERSONAL ORRERVATIONS JfADE BY COJIJIISSIONEES.
33
tl towor. The other two watch half the night each
II . at the lower tower. The Isle of May arraugcment
would enable one to do all.
Inspected buoy establishment. It was in good order.
At quarter past six p.m. passed close to the Cork
light vessel. The crew neatly dressed were mustered
on the deck.
Boarded the
ol. II. 77. 119. GUNFLEET PILE LIGHT.— No. 23.
This had been previously seen from a distance, burn-
ing well. The illuminating apparatus was now found
in very good order. It consists of nine reflectors with
a red glass placed in front of each, fixed on a triangu-
lar frame, and revolving. On leaving the light it was
observed that the red was visible all round. This
Is of light gives a good measure for the divergence and loss of
t-n catoptric light inseparable from the use of parabolic reflectors,
3'aratus. r^j^^ shows the value of the lens used in some Scotch
Iperimeiit. lighthouses.
The establishment was in process of painting.
There is a fog bell, and the usual instruments are
kept. The keeper stated that the sea never reached
the lantern, not even spray in any quantity. On
leaving the Gunfleet, observed the
■)1. II. lU'. 120. SUNK LIGHT.— No. II.
Raw Harwich light and passed the Gunfleet. Passed
close to the
121. MIDDLE SWIN.— No. 1.5.
Revolving light, burning brightly, and anchored for
the night,
ol. II. 77. August 5th.— Sighted 122. The Maplin pile light,
similar in its construction to the Gunfleet, No. 25.
Boarded the
123. MOUSE.— No. 1(3.
Found all hands below except the look out. Every
thing on board the vessel was in first rate order, clean
and neat. The reflectors were quite equal to any
that have been seen afloat. The gimbles worked well
and easilv. The lamp room arranged on the same
plan as all the other lamp rooms on board Trinity
floating lights, remarkably clean, and the leathers, &e.
all in their proper places. Books in order ; usual
instruments kept. The master stated that he had
once been adrift, wind N.N.W.
Passed 124, 125, 126. Girdlek, Princes Channel Crui^eofthe
and ToxGUE Lightvesscls, No. 20, 19, 18, and steamed Vivi'd.
to Margate. Landed and drove to the
Vol. II. 118,
119.
Vol. II. 79.
127. NORTH FORELAND.— No. 20.
The tower is in process of strengthening previous
to the placing of a new and enlarged and a dioptric
light. The present apparatus consists of 18 reflectors
placed on the outside of a curve in two rows, each
lamp and reflector having a separate iron pillar as a
stand. This arrangement is different from any yet
seen. The reflectors are in excellent order, and
apparently very old. There were marks of old inju-
ries nearly obliterated by careful cleaning. Each
lamp lias a long metal chimney leading to the venti-
lator in the top. There is a tube for condensing
water, but never used. A coal fire was originally
burned on this tower. It was then raised and the
present apparatus placed on it. The interior of the
tower was then used for a dwelling. The two keepers
now occupy two neat dwellings at the foot of the
tower, and when the new light is placed the tower is
to remain empty. The keeper sees Grisnez and
Calais on fine nights ; he has seen Dunkerque once.
On that night there was a severe thunderstorm, and
the light appeared as three lights, one above the other.
Grisnez and Calais had the same appearance. The
keeper had observed the electric light while exhibited
at the South Foreland ; he was not favourably placed
for seeing it. He said it was flickering. There is a
sufficiency of evidence given by witnesses besides
the personal observation of the Commission to prove
that the light was far superior in brilliancy to any
now exbibited on the coast. Embarked at Ramsgate Vol. II. 354.
(see Local Returns), and rounded the Gull, No. 22.
Observed the monster buoy on the Goodwin Sands Vol. II. 120,
riding upright and showing like a vessel. Rounded
close to the stern of the GooD^n^-, No. 21, light-- Vol II. 12(i.
vessel. She is of iron, painted red, with three masts, >, 305.
and apparently longer in proportion to her breadth
than the other lightvessel of the Trinity House, and
more like the Irish lightvessels.
She was riding across both wind and tide which
were against each other, to windward of her moorings.
Steamed for Woolwich.
The Commission had nov,' been afloat 32 days,
bad almost clrcnmnavigated Great Britain, had seen,
so as to be able to form an opinion of their efficiency,
130 light establishments, of which 79 were per-
sonally inspected.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS
OF THE COMMISSION ON LIGHTHOUSES, &c.
IN FRANCE AND SPAIN.
Oct. 19th, 1859.— Admiral Hamilton, Mr. Graves,
Mr. Gladstone, and the Secretary, travelled from
London to Paris.
The captain of the steamer stated that in foggy
weather he steams by the sound of a bell placed on
Boulogne pier, and that the sound is quite sufficient
to enable him to take the bearings and proceed
under full steam. {A report on this bell will be
found at -page 221.) On arriving at Paris the Com-
mission met Captain Ryder, who had visited the
Channel Islands and the South of France, and who
had inspected several small harbour lights. {His
account of his observations will be found at page 38.)
In crossing observed the buoy on the Varne, watching
well and very efficiently. The captain states that he
had seen a vessel aground on the Colbart Bank, which
I.
has neither buoy nor beacon. (A Floating light has
been placed on the Varne since the loss of the Bervie
Castle.)
Oct. 20th, Paris. — Admiral Hamilton, Mr. Glad-
stone, Mr. Graves, Captain Rj-der, and the Secre-
tary called at the office of the Conseil General des
Fonts et Chaussees, and were directed to the house
of j\Ions. Reynaud, Directeur General des Pliares,
96, Rue St. Dominique, where they waited on
Mons. Reynaud, who received the Commission very
cordially, presented the chairman with a map of
the lighthouses under his charge, and promised to
forward the views of the Commission as much as
possible. An appointment was made for 3 p.m., at
the establishment of the Commission des Phares,
Quais du Billy, No. 56. At the hour agreed on
E
34
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BdOYS, AND BEACONS
t'rance. the Commission accordingly met Mons. Degrand and
Mous. Rcynaud, and were shown the Museum and
other objects of interest.
The establisliment consists of a lofty tower, placed
on a rising ground facing the Champ de Mars, with a
number of buildings and workshops, &c. attached.
On the top of the tower is a lantern, from which
experiments are tried. The position of the experi-
mental lighthouse is so chosen as to command a clear
range of 1, 2, 8, 12 miles, as may be desired.
Electric liqht. The Commission were shown some experiments
now making on the electric light.
The macliine is a modification of that used by
Mr. Holmes at the South Foreland. It consists of eight
gets of horseshoe magnets placed on the circumference
of a long wheel, of the diameter of about four feet,
instead of two wheels of a diameter of about eight
feet, as used at the South Foreland. The magnets
pass close to iron discs in the core of the wheel, and
induce currents, which are conveyed along wires to
the carbon points where the light is produced. The
wheel is turned by a small steam engine ; but it
might be made to revolve by any other sufficient
mechanical power. One difference in the two
machines is, that in this the currents are alternate ;
whereas, in Holmes's, they are made continuous by a
complicated arrangement on the axis of the wheels,
which reverses the poles.
It was stated that the alternation of the currents
produced no sensible diii'erence in the light, and none
was observed by the Commission.
The light was exhibited in a large darkened room,
and its intensity was remarkable.
Tested against an Argand lamp, it was found to be
equal to 94 burners. With a square lens of cast glass,
and Holme's charcoal points, it was est imated at 55,000, ;
with the improved charcoal points, and a much larger
ground glass, at 220,000 ; with a red glass interposed
it was reduced to 1,030. (Mons. Degrand stated
that the red, as compared with white, improved as the
distance increased.) And it was stated that the best
lens, with the most powerful oil lamp, was only esti-
mated at from 80 to 90. The light varied consider-
ably as the charcoal points wore away ; it flickered,
and occasionally went away altogether for an instant.
This imperfection seemed to be caused by the char-
coal; andif that could be remedied, either by the use
of Professor Way's stream of mercury, or by any other
means, the electric light produced by revolving
magnets might be introduced into lighthouses.
The intensity of the light was tested by looking at
shadows projected by it on a screen of whitened
glass placed at a distance of about 20 yards, and by
comparing these with shadows thrown by a lamp
placed at a distance of a few feet, or a few inches, as
the case might be. The figures given arc the result
of a calculation founded on the distances of the lights
compared, from the glass screen, and cannot be
taken as exact, though they express the difference
rouijhly.
The Museum consists of obsolete methods of
illumination, and improvements now adopted or
projected.
There are, Tin lamps with flat wicks, — The same
with round wicks, — Concentric wicks now used.
Reflectors of cast copper silvered ; The same, after
twenty or thirty years of service, damaged, worn out,
and condemned.
These last appeared to have been very roughly
handled, and it was stated that the keepers had never
acquired the art of cleaning them properly.
There were spherical reflectors joined together ou
the same principle as the parabolic reflectors now
used in the light ship at Liverpool.
In the centre of the room is a trophy of condemned
lenses with mirrors, such as aro now used at the
Skerry Mhore and Inch Keith lighthouses in Scotland.
Built up lenses, such as the first lenses were; and beside
them were the lenses now used in the best French,
English, Scotch, and Irish lighthouses. In addition
to these, plates were shown of glass moulded into the
required angles in iron moulds. These are being
introduced in French lights, and it was stated that
their reduced cost would very greatly reduce the
expense of illumination without diminishing the
amount of light. Wliat is lost in the inferior polish
of the surfaces is said to be gained in the reduced
thickness of glass.
Mous. Degrand considers that this improvement
will be a great step in lighthouse illumination.
Small lenses of moulded glass were seen by the
Commission in use at Londonderry on the 18th of
July. See Report on Lo)idonderry. \o\. 1
Models of bell buoys, Herbert's, and other buoys
were shown, and the Commission were invited to
visit the workshops where the buoys are made.
All lighthouses of any importance in France are
now fitted with lenses, as it is considered beyond all
question that lenses are superior to reflectors. All
lights are under one superintendence, and one man is
mainly responsible for their management.
There are no independent local authorities as in
England, and the system must be uniform. It
remains to be seen whether the system works well.
The Commission were (>xtremely gratified with the
establishment, and with the politeness of the gentle-
men who have charge of it.
It was stated that a fog signal, consisting of a bell
placed in the focus of a reflector built of masonry, is
about to be tried.
October 21st, Paris. — The Commission met Mons.
Ecynaud and Mons. Degrand at the establishment
of Mons. Le Peaute, manufacturer of lighthouse appa-
ratus. The lenses are ground in rings on wheels
which revolve horizontally, and the required angle is
obtained by arms which are fixed to the axle, and
have certain cushions at the end, by means of which .
the prisms are reduced with sand. The final polish
is given by hand with rouge. The glass was remark-
able for its purity. The angles are all calculated to
throw a parallel ray horizontally, and in the case of
a light placed high, the pannels are slightly inclined
so as to throw the rays downwards to the horizon.
{On this point, see the Report on Messrs. Chance's
Works, p. 43.)
Proceeded thence by rail to Argenteuil, and in-
spected the establishment of Mons. Joly, where there
was a large bell buoy on the Herbert principle in-
tended for the mouth of the Seine. The Secretary
suggested a plau of ringing the bell, which was
approved by the t'reneh engineers.
The buoy is large — o"' 80. above water line, and
is to be surmounted by a ball and mirrors. It is pro-
vided ivith a fixed projection like a rudder to steady
it and prevent it from turning.
In the course of conversation the engineers stated
that the light produced in the French lighthouses
was more than that produced in English lighthouses
of the same order; because the consumption of oil Measure q
per hour was yreater. This conclusion can only be light.
just if the oil is advantai/voush/ consumed. It was
also stated that the flame of a lamp properly trimmed
is larger and brighter than the flame of the same
kind of lamp as used in the English lighthouses, ac-
cording to the personal observation of Mons. Reynaud
when in England. It was also stated that the light
at Grisnez is by no means one of the first excellence,
though it has been repeatedly praised by English
mariners in their evidence as one of the best French
lighthouses. {See Abstract of Mariners' Evidence
p. 1 10.) This may arise (according to Mons. Rey-
naud) from the comparison with the light on the
opposite coast (Duugeuess), which is not one of the
best in England. The keepers are generally said to
be old soldiers, who take a great interest and pride
in their lighthouses. There is an intelligent officer,
generally an engineer, within reach of almost every
lighthouse in France, charged with a superintendence
of the light, and the whole system is under one man
residing in Paris, who is a member of a council
(Ponts and Chaussees) which forms a department of
the Government. In short, so far as the frame
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
35
^al Erulence.
'■ench hirot/nge
oi. II. W.
id light.
of the system goes, it appears to be peculiarly well
adapted for securing efficient and uniform lighting.
The buoyage of the coast is in like manner syste-
matized, but it has not been carried out. " They are
now about to improve that branch of the service."
In the evening, Monsieur Roynaud brought letters
to the Commis.sioners, giving them access to all the
lighthouses, and to the registers kept there.
Mr. Graves, Captain Ryder, and Dr. Gladstone
started for Cherbourg next morning. Their report
win be found at page 39.
October 22nd. — Admiral Hamilton and the Secre-
tary proceeded to Bordeaux via Tours, to inspect the
Tour de Cordouan, and other lighthouses, indicated
by Monsieur Reynaud as most worthy of attention.
Left Paris at 9, arrived at Tours at 2, on Sunday.
October 24th. — Left Tours at 2, arrived at Bor-
deaux at 10 p.m.
October 25th. — Called on the consul and presented
letter from the ambassador.
Bordeaux. — Went to the port and boarded the
steamer "Tanolipaz," for Liverpool, the only English
steam vessel in harbour.
Captain Charles Baker stated that, in his opinion,
after four years' expei'ience, the French lights were
far superior to the English lights in brilliancy, but
are not nearly so well placed ; that is to say, they are
not generally far enough to seaward — for example,
Ushant. The French buoys are inferior to the
English ; they are few and tar between, and do not
watch in tideways. They are very small ; " a man
could carry them in a wheelbarrow."
Captain Baker, in sailing between Liverpool and
Bordeaux, sees many of the French and English lights.
He sees the Longships, No. 52, and complains
that it is very poor ; he has mistaken it for a
ship's light. On referring to observations of the
Commission it appears that the light is catoptric,
20 re.'ectors, fixed, and when inspected by the
Commission, July 8th, the reflectors were very
bright. The boatmen in the neighbourhood
stated that the light was " beautiful." Captain
Baker's opinion is, therefore, formed on a frequent
comparison of French dioptric lights with an English
fixed catoptric in good order, and his testimony
confirms the rest of the evidence, and is favourable
to dioptric lights. With reference to red lights,
Captain Baker says that in hazy weather he has
seen the red flash of the lighthouse at Pontillac,
when the white light at the same place, and that at
Terre Negre (a lighthouse nearer to him), were not
visible. Captain Baker has traded on the north coast
of Spain, and thinks these lights equal to the French,
and superior to the English. He also thinks that
lights placed near high land are often obscured by
the condensation of fogs near the land.
Boarded a French steamer, and questioned the
mate. He thinks the English lights as good as the
French ; he trades to the north of Europe, and is well
acquainted with the English lights ; when the wind is
in certain quarters his vessel, to use his own words,
" souvent tombe cr-r-rack sur le galloppare."
October 26th. — Travelled by rail to Arcachon, a
newly-built watering place on the basin ; hired a boat
with some difficulty, as the wind and tide were both
contrar}', and were pulled over by four Gascons to
the lighthouse on
131. CAP FERRET.
The tower is white, and stands on a low promontory
of land, which forms one side of the entrance to the
basin. The channel is extremely narrow and intri-
cate, and is not buoyed. The sea was breaking
heavily on the sand banks, and on the Dunes out.side.
The tower is white, a round column on a round
base. The base contains the rooms of the keepers.
The tower has no floors, and is ascended by a cork-
screw stair. The gallery round the top is broad, and Fiance.
the whole edifice is remarkably solid, and apparently
well built.
The illuminating apparatus is lenticular, but the
upper and lower portions consist of rows of mercurial
mirrors, instead of glass prisms, six rows above and three
below. These are damaged, as they are in Scotland
and elsewhere, where they have been in use for a long
time. They are considered by the lighthouse autho-
rities in Paris as out of date, and are included amongst
the curiosities in the museum. To the landward side
is a large silvered spherical reflector, intended to
reflect the light to seaward. A portion of the light
is seen above and below the mirror from the basin,
and is useful to fishermen and others. Those re-
flectors were clean, but decidedly inferior to English
reflectors of the same kind.
The lamp is a mechanical pumping lamp. The Instruction of
guardian explained that he had been carefully in- keepers.
structed in all that pertained to the machinery ; that
he had been required to take it to pieces, and set it
up again, before he was intrusted with the care of the
light. He showed his manner of levelling the burner
with spirit levels, and of adjusting the lamp in the
focus of the lens, by means of a string attached to a Direction oj
point on the framework, but there was no contrivance beam.
for setting the lens or the lamp, so as to throw the
light downwards to ttie horizon. It is manifest there-
fore that here, as elsewhere, a considerable portion of
the light must be thrown upwards above the horizon
and lost. If the lens were set to throw a horizontal
beam, the light would pass above the horizon at the
height of the lighthouse ; but as the light is seen at a
distance of a few miles, the beam must have a con-
siderable divergence, and that must be as great
upwards as downwards; consequently tha greater part
of the light is thrown on the clouds.
E
Ligiitlionse beam tlirowu at right angl
The bars of the lantern are horizontal and ver-
tical, instead of diagonal, as in Scotland ; and, in that
respect, inferior, for horizontal bars cast shadows and
obscure the light. {See Report on Bertcick.)
The lantern is surrounded by a network of strong
■wire, as the number of large wild fowl which &y Injunj by birds.
against it is such as to endanger the strong glass.
About 200 birds were so killed this year.
There are three kee]5ers. No provision is made
for lodging their families, but they have obtained
permission and have built huts for themselves. One
of these was also occupied by a party of sportsmen
who had come for the purpose of shooting pigeons.
The register was inspected, and was found in
order ; made up to the last date. The keepers are
required to consume a certain quantity of oil per Measure of
hour, and the quantity consumed is taken as the mea- ^'9^'-
sure of the light produced. The quantity is ascer-
tained by sounding the oil in the reservoir, and esti-
mating the weight consumed by a table provided for
the purpose. (See Captain Ryder's remarks.)
There is a lightning conductor ; no barometer ;
no thermometer. The keepers would be glad to
have both, and to keep the register. There is no
dial ; they have often applied for one in vain. There
is a clock. There are no means of communication
between the lantern and the rooms below. The
keeper on guard is allowed an arm chair, but no
books. Arm chairs are forbidden in Clreat Britain,
and books are provided.
2
36
APPENDIX TO EEPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Sailed back to ArcacLoD, and slept at tlie Hotel
de France.
October 27.— TraTelled by rail to Bayonne, and
thence three miles to
132. BIARRITZ.
Walked up to the lighthouse, and found one of the
keepers engaged in lighting his lamp, and the other
smoking a cigar and vratchiug the last rays of the
sunset behind the Spanish mountains.
Hailed the man in the balcony, told him of the
order, and obtained permission to mount. The
tower is built on a rock of considerable height, and
is a very fine building. The keepers' dwellings are
about the base, as at Cape Ferret ; but there is no
provision for lodging the families of the keepers,
who live in the tov.'u in their own lodgings. The
building appeared to be rather extravagant than
otherwise, but not to equal the British lighthouses in
providing for the comfort of the keepers, though the
accommodation is ample for single men. The tower,
as at Cape Ferret, is mounted by a corkscrew stair.
The floor is of coloured marbles. The illuminating
apparatus is revolving, a system of 16 lenses showing
a flash every ^ minute, and a system of 8 rows of
plane mercurial mirrors above and below. The
light shows all round, and a considerable portion
(nearly one half) is lost on the landward side. The
mirrors were damaged, and some displaced ; the
■tvhole was inferior to many of the English light-
houses of modern construction. The lamp was the
same as at Cape Ferret, and the flame exceedingly
bright and clear. The keeper seemed perfectly to
understand his business, and to take a pride in it.
He said that the flame "would be better when the oil
got heated, and he varied it by moving the regulator
in the iron chimne}-, so as to show tlie ill eflccts of
too much or too little draught.
The men consider themselves to be ill paid, on
account of their responsibility. They have no allow-
ances beyond their pay, and they find it hard to sub-
sist on that. They are not changed from place to
to place, as in England. The lighthouse was very
clean, but inferior in that respect to many in Great
Britain which the Commissioners have seen.
The lights of Fontarabia and St. Sebastian were
very clearly seen, distant many miles.
On returning to the hotel tested the light with the
dark prism from the window, distant about a mile.
A wax candle, distant 21 feet, gave 4-20, light-
house flash 3 • 50, fixed light, 2 • 80. At about half
a mile inland the light was still brighter, and threw
strong shadows from the trees on the road. As this
point was above the lighthouse, and considerably
above the level of the sea, it is evident that here, a3
elsewhere, the greater portion of the light is thrown
upwards, and never reaches the sea, while nearly ono
half is thrown over the land, where it is not wanted
at all. A small reflector, fixed inside the lenses on the
land side, would be some economy, and could be placed
without any diificulty. Very few birds are killed here.
The result of these two comparisons is by no means
unfavourable to the condition and eiRciency of English
lights of the same class.
October 28th. — Travelled by diligence to St. Sebas-
tian, observed the light showing directly along the
road ; it was very Ijright, but was certainly not
wanted there.
October 29tli Walked up to the lighthouse
133. FARO DE YEULDO.
It 13 a white tower on the hill to the west of
the port — a low tower with comfortable dwellings
attached ; there is no ornament, but it is very
neat and remarkably well kept. The apparatus
is third class dioptric fixed with three flashes, pro-
duced by a system of revolving cylindrical prisms Spain.
made in Paris by Le Paute, the period of revolution
■^ minute ; the lamp is mechanical, and has two
wicks. About one fifch of the light is lost on the hill
behind the house, and, though this light is about .500 or Direction of
600 feet above the sea, it is set to throw a horizontal *'""'■
beam. This method of throwing a flash has uot been
adopted iu any English lighthouse that has been
visited, and the result is satisfactory, for the light
with two wicks was clearly seen at Biarrittz, distant
many miles. There are two guardians, whose pay
is 5,000 reals. The one who showed the light
seemed satisfied. There are no meteorological instru-
ments. There is a lightning conductor. No books
are provided ; there is a clock, but no dial. The
keeper is a mechanic and a musician, and seemed to
be a very intelligent man ; his light was remarkably
well and neatly kept. The oil burned is olive oil,
which costs 68 reals the aroba. The keepers are
provided with arms, and the lower windows are
barred. The court is covered with glass, and the
rain water is collected and used. Returned to
St. Sebastian direct, and drove in a carriage to
Passages, a small town about three miles to the east-
ward ; it is built on both sides of a very narrow
entrance between two hills of about 1,000 feet. The
passage leads from the sea into a considerable basin.
Hired a boat and rowed same distance to seaward,
landed, and walked up a very steep hill, and then
along a sheep walk overhanging the sea to the light-
house. It is built on a peak overhanging the sea,
about 580 feet above the level. There is good
accommodation for the two keepers, who were profuse
in their offers of hospitality. One has a wooden leg,
the other has his full complement of limbs, and both
appeared to understand their business, and to be
intelligent men ; one played several airs on a guitar.
Their dwellings were not very clean, and their diet
seemed to be spare ; everything belonging to the
light was in extremely good order, and they seemed
to take a pride in it. Here, as at St. Sebastian, there
were spare lamps ready for use, and everything in
order and in its proper place, as in well-kept light-
houses elsewhere.
The register is the same as in France, and has a
column for recording the appearance of other lights
visible. The light is fixed, 4th order dioptric, two
wicks made in Paris ; set for horizontal beam, and a
great part of the light lost on the hills behind. The
keeper here, as at the other light, pointed out that a
door to act as a reflector would materially improve
the light. There are no meteorological instruments ;
there is a clock, and the hours for lighting and extin-
guishing are specified. Arms are provided, and the
windows are barred. Keeper stated that these precau-
tions were against " ladrones " (robbers), and that he
was a little of a soldier. They see many ships passing
sometimes close to the rocks, but there have been no
wrecks. There are no fog signals at either of these
lighthouses. Both are in excellent condition, and
arc fully equal to lights of similar classes elsewhere,
which was not anticipated. The keepers stated that
the lights to the westward were of a larger class, and
quite as well kept.
Returned in a violent storm of wind and rain,
rowed to Pasages, and drove to St. Sebastian, where
three steamers were waiting to embark a number of
soldiers for Morocco. In the night one of these was
forced to put to sea, and a large coaster was driven on
shore in the harbour.
On the 28th gave a number of IMariners' Questions
to the consul at Bilboa, who happened to be in the
hotel.
October 30th. — Travelled to Bayonne.
October 31st. — Rail to Bordeaux.
November 1st. — Steamed down the river to
134. ROYAN;
heavy sea and bad weather at the mouth of the river.
The buoyage of this very difficult navigation was
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
37
„ remarkably defective. The buoys were few and far
J^*^' between, and small, but coloured on the usual French
3uoyarje. System. Observed the floating lightvcssel, which
■was small, and similar to the Ilumbcr lightvessel.
On landing hired a carriage, and drove to Pontillac,
where the sand was so heavy that the carriage
was left.
I 135. MALAKOFF.
Walked in the dark to the lighthouse, -svliich the
Commissioners had been advised to inspect as worthy
of their attention. It is a lofty construction of
wooden beams, forming a pyramid, with a stair, and
an iron room on the top containing the light. The
keepers (two) have their dwellings at a distance of
I about 300 j-ards ; walked to tho door, got one of the
keepers to accompany us, and ascended the tower.
I It was blowing very hard : there was no one in the
building, and the doors were unfastened. The light
'Catoptric. is alternately red and bright, produced by three lamps
ledliqat. in the focus of three large parabolic reflectors of cast
copper, with galvanized silver. These were very
dim, badly cleaned, and inferior in every respect to
the worst reflectors seen in England, Their diameter
is tliree feet, or rather more. The variation in colour
is produced by two screens of red glass, which revolve
horizontally on arms at right angles to an upright
axle. On the top is a screen of metal, which masks
the upper light when the two lower reflectors show
Red light. bright. The upper reflector has a red glass chimney.
Ttco bright lights are considered equal to three red ;
but, according to the account of this light given by
Captain Baker, page 35, the three red lights are better
in haz)' weather than the two bright. This light is in-
tended to be a leading light when seen in one with the
light at Terre Negre, and is built of wood, as the banks
are constantly changing, and it may be necessary
to move it. Inspected the register, and found all in
order. There are no instruments kept ; the keepers
would be glad to have them. Both are married;
their families live with them. The dwellings are
neat and well kept ; the wives and daughters dressed
in tall caps, the men in blouses. Observations are
kept of neighbouring lights visible, six in number, —
Cordovan, Terre Negre, La Courbe, Pointe de Graves,
Eichard, and floating light. Of these, Cordouau,
Terre Negre, Pointe de Graves, and La Courbe, were
observed ; 138. the other two were invisible, in conse-
quence of the haze. Cordouan shows red towards the
shore.
November 2nd. — Visited Monsieur Botton, the
district engineer, who gave a great deal of information
as to the mode of conducting the lighthouse service,
which will be given in detail by the authorities.
Looked at Cordouan through a telescope, as it was
quite inaccessible in consequence of the heavy sea-
The tower is coloured white ; the sea was breaking
heavily all round the lighthouse, and it was impossible
to go oft'. It was stated that mirrors are still used as
part of the illuminating apparatus. Travelled by
diligence to Kochfort and by rail to La Rochelle.
November 3rd. — Up at six, started at eight in a small
steamer, and crossed to St. Martin, Isle de Rhe, in 1^
Lours; hired a carriage and drove 12 miles to the
large lighthouse
139. TOUR DE BALENE,
139 on tlie list of lights visited or seen alight.
Observed in crossing a beacon tower built-on a reef ;
it was coloured in horizontal stripes red and black.
See ante with a white stripe close to the water. It was re-
^eedlcs. marked that this produced the effect of a boat under
?"'""'■ ''•^*'"'''' sail with the sky showing underneath, proving the
j advantage of dark colours for objects intended to be
seen against the sea or sky. A white lighthouse seen
E
against the sky was not nearly so distinct as a France.
neighbouring church steeple coloured black, as a
sailing mark. The light was grey and the sky
covered with clouds.
The Tour de Balene is built on the '-''■orthera q^/^^^ ^y i^^^-^^
extremity of the island. It is of yellow stone, i„,j^
with ornaments of dark grey granite. The tower
is octagonal, and rises from a set of buildings
two stories high, which contain numerous rooms,
some of which are retained for the use of the
authorities who visit the lighthouse. They were
plainly but well fitted and furnished. It reminded the .
chairman of the lighthouses near Dublin and Edin-
burgh. The ollroom and workroom were equally
remarkable for their elegant fittings, pavements of
coloured marbles, and tables of the same material,
glass cases for the necessary tools, spare lamps,
wicks, &c. Tho guardian stated that the work-
room was not used for cleaning tho lamps, as it
is at the bottom of the tower. Tho tower is 50
metres in height, hollow like the rest, and ascended
by a turning stair. Below the lantern is a room
with a spare lamp ready for use, and a bed for a
guardian. This room is wainscoated with flowered
oak, and is extremely handsome. It was subsequently
stated by Mens. Eeynaud, that he thought a little
ornament of great practical use, as it makes the men
more careful and more proud of their work. The
lantern is also paved with coloured marble, and slabs Ornament.
of the same material line the walls to the height of
about sis feet. The guardian explained that this was
intended to prevent dust.
The gallery outside is broad and surrounded by a
solid rail. The second lighthouse, built on a reef
covered at high water, distant about a mile and a
balf, vi^as observed. It was of grey granite, and
appeared almost black, because wet. Two keepers
live for a short period in this tower, and when re-
lieved they are lodged on shore in neat houses built
close to the largo tower, in a garden sheltered by
tamarisks. Their wives arid families were seen.
Also a system of spurs of brickwork projecting into
the sea, intended to cause the sand to accumulate and
prevent the damage which the sea might cause in
heavy gales. A curious effect of a cross sea was
pointed out by the keeper, who said that strangers
generally remarked that they had never seen anything
similar. It was sufficiently evident that the second
light could not be visited, as the sea was breaking
all about it in lines of breakers, moving at right
angles to each other.
The illuminating apparatus was constructed by
Sautter and Co., Avenue Montaigne a Paris.
It is dioptric, first order, and consists of a system
of 16 revolving lenses, v/ith prisms above and below,
to give the fixed light. It shows all round, and gives
a flash every 30 seconds. The brass fittings are
bright. The lamp is mechanical, with four wicks, and
pump, carefully levelled and accurately set in the
focus by the spirit level and string. The focus is at
a distance of about an inch above the wick. The
diameter of the apparatus is about six feet ; ventila-
tion is obtained by doors opening below the glass of
the lantern. These are used whenever the lantern
is observed to be dim from condensation of vapour
produced by combustion. Small birds are taken in Birds.
numbers. The keeper described them as fluttering
ao'ainst the glass till they rested on the stonework
outside, always with their beaks against the glass.
The guardians go outside, catch them and eat them.
There are five guardians attached to these two light-
houses, under the superintendence of a chief, who is a
native of the island. This whole establishment is ex-
tremely handsome and very well kept. Tho apparatus
is equal to any in England, but not superior to Lundy
Island, Eathlin, Skerry Mhore, and other first-class
British lights which have been visited. There is a
lightning conductor, an aneroid barometer, a clock ;
but there are no means of communication between
lantern and dwellings. No books are provided for
the men. The register was well and neatly kept.
3
38
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Drove back to St. Martin's ; hired a fishing-boat,
and sailed fo- La Rochelle, at 5 • 15, arrived at 10 • 25,
head wind and considerable sea. Observed the lights
of, 2, La Balene ; .3, St. Martin red harbour light ;
4, La Flotte white ditto ; -i, Aiguillon ; 6, Chauvan ;
7, Chasseron ; 8, Isle d'Aix ; 9, 10, harbour lights of
La Rochelle. 149. These latter were very useful, and
were greatly superior to lights of their class in Eng-
land, such as Littlehampton, Aberdeen, Dunmore,
near Waterford, &c. One is red, the other revolving
bright, and when both are in one the harbour is open.
November 4tli. — La Rochelle to Paris.
November 5th. — Called on Mons. Reynaud, and
finding that he was at the Atelier des Phares, followed
him there ; found a Commission of members of the
Government and scientific bodies engaged in an
examination of the electric light.
Mons. Revnaud stated that they had succeeded in
increasing the power of the light, so as nearly to
double its intensity, and that by dividing the machine
into two parts they had avoided the danger of extinc-
tion. The experiment under trial appeared to be a
comparison between a single Argand burner, a four-
wick lighthouse oil lamp, with a lens of the first order
used to produce a flash, and the electric light in the
focus of a cast lens on the new system for producing a
fixed light ; that is to say, 1st, the light used in a
single reliector ; 2nd, the most powerful light that
is now produced in lighthouses, on the dioptric
system, involving a first cost of about 1,000/. for appa-
ratus, and a cost of 875 gallons of oil per year for
fuel ; 3rd. The electric light in an apparatus about
the size of a hat, costing about 20/. or 30/., intended to
cast a horizontal disk of light, and produced at the
cost of the motive power of the engine, wear and
tear of the machine, and cost of engineer.
The superiority of the electric light was beyond
all comparison. According to the calculation of the
engineers the figures were, at the former experi-
ment : —
Argand burner, 1.
First order flash, 80 to 90.
Electric light, 94.
Electric light, cast glass flash, 55,000.
Ditto first order flash, 220,000.
Ditto doubled (2), 440,000.
Ditto fixed light, small apparatus costing
20/. or 30/., figures not given, but the light was so
intense as to be painful to the eyes, and to obliterate
the shadow cast by the first order flash with an oil
lamp of four wicks placed near it, and at the same
distance. The light was steady. A report will pro-
bably be given, and should be obtained if possible.
It does not appear that steam power is necessary
to move the machine which produces the current of
electricity. A weight and a system of wheels would
probably give sutficient power and velocity. If this
can be accomplished, the electric light seems to be far
superior to any other artificial light known.
Tuesday 8th. — Observed the harbour light Bou-
logne, Grisnez, and South Foreland at .about 6 a.m.,
day breaking. The stars were nearly all invisible in
the light, consequently the South Foj-eland electric
light, fixed light apparatus, was then, at a distance of
29 miles, superior in brilliancy to the stars. The
fishermen all consider the new light an improvement,
and remark that the colour is blue. The sailors on
board the steamer remarked that tliey see the electric
light about seven miies further than the other in thick
hazy weather.
The Commission crossed the Channel, and returned
to London.
(Signed) W. A. B. Hamilton.
Captain Ryder visited France, and reported as Observations t\
follows : — Captain Byde.
150. MARSEILLES.
13th October. — Visited the pier lighthouse of the
harbour of La Joliette. Catoptric, fourtb order. No
fog or telegraph signals. Lamp very clean. Keeper
absent at his trade.
14th. — Visited the lighthouse at Cassis, and after-
wards the two lighthouses at Ciotat.
15th. — Had an interview with the Secretary of the
Prefet Maritime at Toulon, who passed me on to the
Engineer des Travaux, in the dockyard ; who passed
me on to the assistant of the Engineer des Travaux
Publiques, who gave me two orders for Lesset and
La Porquerolles.
16th. — -A very wet morning. Started for small
steamer appointed to sail on that day at 7 a.m. for
Porquerolles. Found that her machine had broken
doivn, and she would not start until Tuesday in next
week. Returned to Paris to meet Commissioners.
151, 152. CASSIS AND CIOTAT.
The two lighthouses at Ciotat (a very valuable
harbour, where are situated the buildings of the
Messageries Imperiale), and the one lighthouse at
Cassis (another small harbour), are good specimens of
lights, which from their brilliancy must be useful as
coast lights, although more accurately they would
be considered only as harbour lights. They, like La
Joliette, are 4th order ; but La Joliette alone had a
reflector back. The houses are small, just room
enough to turn up stairs. The lamps and lenses are
always carefully covered in the daytime, and the
blinds drawn. The keepers are in every case, as
regards these harbour lights, allowed to follow a trade
during the day, which permits of their receiving a
low pay.
There was only one point which caught my atten-
tion, and which if valuable, may be adopted by us ;
viz., a tin filter for the oil. In visiting our own Filter.
lighthouses we occasionally noticed that the oil was
thick and dull. This might probably be corrected
by a filter.
I made no inquiries as to management, &c., deem-
ing that all such queries could be best answered at
Paris.
Examined at Marseilles, Captain Roberts, of the
" Vectis," Peninsular and Oriental.
He stated that he had answered our questions, and Oral EviJevci
gave as his opinion that the French lights appeared
to him to be more brilliant than the English ; but
not being asked to give his reason why they were so,
had not stated what was the reason of his opinion,
viz. that the lights, from being in the Mediterranean,
where the atmosphere was so clear, showed much
further, and could therefore be placed at greater
heights. He considered the Porquerolles a very good
light ; he had seen it 25 miles ofi". The Sangunez,
on the coast of Corsica, was also a very good light,
and had seen it 30 miles off ; Genoa light also he
had seen 30 miles off'. Where the atmosphere is
clear the lights can of course be placed higher, and
therefore can be seen further ofi'.
The greater height and the clearness of the atmo-
sphere are calculated to elicit a very favourable
opinion of the French lighthouses, and to make the
English lights — necessarily placed lower, and therefore
not seen so far ofi" — owing to that cause and to the less
clear atmosphere, compared with the French at a
disadvantage. Note. — This is true when French
lights in the Mediterranean or the south coast of
France are compared with lights in England, but
cannot apply to any comparison between lights that
belong to the two countries, and are situated in the
English Channel.
He thinks Gozo light, in the island of Malta, as
good as any French light.
Captain Roberts thinks a good light at the east end
of Malta would be a great advantage to
coming from the eastward.
PERSONAL OBERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS,
89
Prefers revolving lights, as they cannot ho mistaken
for ship's lights.
The light at P^ort Tine, Quarantine Harbour, has
been most unaccountably delayed. The lamp has
been returned to England, and he hears it will not
give satisfaction. Captains not been consulted about
it.
.SV. Allan's Head, eouth coast of England, ought
to have a good light.
Portland lighis atq not powerful enough. Was
not aware of lightship being placed there.
24th October. — Cherbourg visited by Captain A.
P. Ryder, Mr. Graves, and Dr. Ghidstone.
153. QUEEQUEVILLE LIGHT.
Dioptric, fourth order ; in the fort near Cherbourg.
The lieeper and his wife botli intelligent people ;
live in a house in the fort. They alluded to liaving
moved in a higher sphere, and being reduced.
He breaks, on an average, one chimney in about
eight months. He says wlien they become perma-
nently dull he breaks tliem purposely.
7im wich. He eflccts an economy by stretching, and thus
thinning the wick. It burns brighter with less oil.
He considers that he effects a saving of one-sixth
of the oil in this way. He cleans the glass with
spirits of wne ; it was certainly very clean. A
linen cover is kept over it all the day.
His lighthouse is inspected twice a month by the
local agent, one of the employes in the engineer
department.
He stated that he never had to touch the light
during the night.
The oil was kept in a double cistern. The cistern
was lined with zinc, which colours the oil ; but he
spoke of a superior description, lined with porcelain.
There was a wooden scale in the cistern. He spoke
of an improved scale, which was marked as the oil
was poured in, and was therefore more accurate.
He always empties his lamp every morning into
the filter, and from thence the oil is transferred to
the cistern.
Every two mouths he washes the cloth at the
bottom of the filter, and bakes the sand.
He is very careful in cleaning his lamp, and has
small brushes of his own whicli he passes through
the oil pipe to clear the passage, into which pieces of
burnt wick sometimes find their way.
He uses burnt brick instead of rouge, as he says
rouge gives a tinge to the brass which makes the
light yellow. He considers it important to have all
metal as bright as possible, so that every ray may be
reflected.
He stated that the last keeper very much neglected
the light, and stole the oil.
onsmiiption of Great precautions are taken to estimate the con-
sumption. The lamp is weighed just before it is
lighted, and also when extinguished ; ths difference
is the weight of the oil. This is registered. Tlie
sums of these weights during any interval ought
evidently to equal the decrease in the weight of the
oil in the cistern ; but no precaution of this kind can
prevent a lighthouse keeper, where there is only
one, from selling the oil, as it is evidently in his
power to cook his accounts. There is tlm following
danger in watching the consumption of oil too nar-
rowly:
The relative importance of the duties of a light-
house keeper, viz.,
(1.) Keeping the most brilliant light possible,
(2.) Honestly expending the oil,
is evidently in the order given. If, therefore, there
is a rogue in charge of a lighthouse, it is better
that he should keep the most brilliant light possible,
even though he sells some of the oil. Any very
rigid and safe system of scrutiny would lead the
rogues (who know that their chiefs are well awai-e
wliat the maximum consumption should be), to
obtain their surplus disposable oil by diminishing
E
the brilliancy of the lamp whenever they thought
they could safely do so, as in thick fogs, &c.
The keeper at Querqueville evidently prided him-
self very much on his lighthouse, and had made a
special study and hobby of the duties connected
with it.
154. FATOUVILLE near HONFLEUR.
A first-class catadioptric with red flashes, caused
by a revolving frame containing cylindrical converg-
ing lenses and red panes.
Lighthouse tower grey colour, although intended as
a guiding mark for ships at sea.
The lighthouse and buildings handsome, and grounds
very nicely kept. There was a cafe close to the
lighthouse, kept by some of the family. There were
handsome apartments for the engineer, who only
comes there for a few days. This lighthouse was con-
sidered by Mr. Reynaud to be a very important light.
We were much struck with the order and regularity
of the arrangements. There was a very large assort-
ment of tools in a glass press in the waiting room.
Spare glasses, spare towels, wicks, &c., were all
orderly arranged in the press.
There was a framed list of everything in each room
hung up for reference. The head keeper stated that
the pumping machine made the flame burn irregu-
larly. He preferred, he said, the moderator principle,
which we saw afterwards at Honfleur.
There was a reflector, but it was very dull. There
was only one hole in the centre of the roof and no
upper chimney. The soot was constantly falling, as if
the consumption was imperfect.
Tie keeper used rouge powder for reflector occa-
sionally ; but ordinarily a white powder, called poudre
d'Espagne ; it looked like whiting. He stated that
Mr. Reynaud did not like the reflectors to be very
bright.
The quantity of oil consumed every watch is mea-
sured and registered by a steel scale being placed in
the lamp.
The machine for producing the rotatory motion
appeared to be very perfect. It will go for 20 hours,
but is wound up every night. The small machine
for supplying oil is wound up every three hours.
There are three keepers ; they may work in the
day at a trade, but not sleep out at night without
permission.
We saw here, and in all the larger lighthouses, an
arm chair in the chamber immediately under the
lamp, evidently intended for and most suggestive of
a nap. The second keeper it was stated remained in
bed while the one on guard was always in the lantern
or the chair. The pay of the three keepers were
respectively 800, 725, 600 francs, or 32/., 291., 2il.,
about half what they receive in our service.
The families did not appear to reside in the light-
house. House rent is probably, therefore, a charge
which still further increases the disproportion between
the salaries in the two countries.
They receive free lighting and use of furniture.
There was a barometer and thermometer, and eight
observations were made in the 24 hours.
A record is also kept of the strength of the wind,
and the nature of the clouds.
There were four rain gauges.
The lighthouse is inspected twice a month by the
conductor, twice a year by engineer, and once in two
years by Mr. Degrand or Mr. Reynaud. The light-
house keepers pay their own doctors generally ; but
at some of the lighthouses the engineers allow them
advice gratis ; it depends on the engineer.
There is a superannuation after very long service.
The keepers said new oil was always tried in a
small lamp with a wick supplied for the purpose, and
if it did not burn well, was returned.
The rule for lighting was a quarter of an houi'
before sunset, and for extinguishing, at daylight.
Everything beautifully clean ; but not more so
4
APPEXDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, mTOTS, AXD BEACOXS
Oral Evuletwe.
40
than in our first-class houses in England or Scotland,
and some in Ireland. „ . -, u „,i
Saw this light from Honfleur sis miles ofi ; red
flashes very brilliant.
155. HONFLEUR.
An English resident at Harfleur, and accustomed
to navigate the Channel in a yacht, expressed his
opinion Uiat the English coast was better liglited than
the French, because the lights were situated m more
useful positions, and were better distinguished from
one another. He said that the French navigated by
the lead, and made comparatively little use ot the
lights. ,
From the pier at Honfleur 1 1 diflerent lights, be-
sides red lanterns on piers, were observed that night
in different parts of the Seine, including those ot
La Heve, which were very bright.
The buoys in the Seine appeared few and small ;
none on any of the sand banks.
Visited the Phare de I'Hopital ; third order ; fixed ;
two wicks.
Moderator lamp ; no metal chimney running to
roof. ^ , ,
The moderator has a small filter, to prevent dust
beinf forced up by piston to the wick.
The oil is measured with a steel measure every
The' lishthousc keeper, Victor Helane, was an old
soldier who had served in the Russian campaign ;
lost his pension on coming into the lighthouse service.
His pay was 650 francs, 26/. House said to no
inconvenient ; no room. _ _
Fatouville is two leagues ofl' ; cannot see it in a tog.
26th Oct. — Crossed the Seine to Havi'e.
156. CAP DE LA HEVE.
Two lighthouses ; very handsome, connected by _a
well-built" row of dwellings. A permanent bazaar is
established in the lower story. First class dioptric,
fixed. . ^ „ .,
Fresnel's upper and lower mirrors. Pumps lor oil
very clean and in aood order.
There were five" keepers. Tlie head keeper kept
no niaht watch, but visited the houses occasionally.
The oil is measured every hour. The consumption of
oil appears to be considered as the measure of
efficiency, and any keeper would be blamed as having
neglected his duty if the consumption had not reached
the required figure during his watch.
The lighthouses are of the same height. Their
being in one was said to mark the position of some
shoal.
This is said to be the site of the earhest light-
house in France. A coal fire was burnt here till 1790.
27th Oct.^-Proceeded to Dieppe, and visited at
night the lighthouse at
157. AILLY.
This is considered by M. Reynaud to be one of the
very best lights in France.
1st order ; catadioptric, revolving.
The flash is prolonged by the totally reflecting
prisms of the upper part of the apparatus not being
perfectly concentric witii the annular lenses. There
are large reflectoi-s on the landward side, which, how-
ever, were very dull.
In very good order. Light very brilliant. The
windows were very dirty. No novelty of any kind
was elicited by our visit.
(icnerul opiuinjts. — The interna] arrangements of
the French lighthouses appear to be perfect.
The dulness of their reflectors in the catadioptric
lights appears the only exception to their uniform
efficiency.
The lighthouses of the smaller orders are not so
well provided with tools, &c., as the larger establish-
ments.
The dioptric principle appears to be almost
universal. The French when Frtsucl brought for-
ward his principle were, unlike the English, almost
without lighthouses. It was most economical, there-
fore for them to place dioptric lights everywhere, the
entire cost being soon covered by the economy in oil.
The frequency of the French lights is also very
marked compared with the lights in the English
Channel. If there is no confusion occasioned by
this, there can be no doubt but that frequent lights
are a great boon to navigators in thick hazy weather.
October 28th.— Captain Ryder and Mr. Graves
crossed from Dieppe to Newhaven. _
Captain White, of the Newhaven packet mtormed
them that the only two lights he used were Cap L'Ailly
in France, and Beachy Head in England, and he was
constantly seeing tliem, losing siglit of one shortly
before he obtained sight of the other. He staled
that the English was quite as good as the French.
j\Ir Gladstone visited the lighthouse on the pier- ObscT^nf:..,,
. , . Dr. Crladiii
head at
158. DIEPPE.
It is a fourth order, dioptric. It appeared clean and
in n-ood condition. The keeper lives in a house close
by the pier, where he keeps his oil, stores,_ registers,
&c. He complained tliat the zinc cisterns injure the Ti,hi!lial.t.
oil, and said that the same had been remarked to him
by'the keepers at the Cap deL'.iilly. The oil was
m'uch better when kept in eartheru jars. The last
keeper had been discharged for inattention. The
lin-ht is only burnt for two hours at high water.
°From the pier at Boulogne Jlr. Gladstone watched
the li-rht at Cape Grisnez. It shone clearly, and the
altcrmition of bright and dull light produced a good
distinction.
October 29th. — As he could not manage to reach
Cape Grisnez on account of the distance, Mr. Glad-
stone wrote to Admiral Hamilton to that eff'ect, in-
forming him of the means of reaching that place should
he deem it expedient to do so. He had previously
visited the lighthouse at Cap d'Alpreche, and that on
the western jetty at Boulogne.
159. CAP D'ALPRECHE.
The establishment consists of a small tower con-
taining a dioptric apparatus of the third order, a
little house, and a garden, on the top of a very
exposed cliff'. The keeper, who is an intelligent
and civil man, and his wife both complained of
the cold and wind from which they suflfer. The
tower frequently sways to and fro with the wind, and
the glass of the lantern is often cracked, and some-
times blown in, so that storm panes are always kept
ready. The place appeared clean, and well kept, and
the ventilation good. The rope of the revolving
apparatus is very thin, but strong, and the keeper
seemed greatly astonished that in Great Brit.ain ropes
sometimes l)reak ; he said that the rope ought to be
examined from time to time, and changed if at all
frayed. He is not furnished with proper means for
weighing the oil. The conductor comes frequently,
perhaps once a month ; the engineer occasionally.
The South Foreland lights are seen from this tower.
160. BOULOGNE.
The tidal light establishment on the western jetty j-i,i„j /;,_,/,,
at Boulogne comprises an iron tower, a wooden house
for the keeper, and a zinc bell-house. _ The keeper
is an ignorant man who cannot read ; his son-in-law
keeps Uie registers. At dill'erent heights up the
tower and facing the sea are two windows, each pro-
vided with a very small dioptric apparatus. They
were in a very sooty condition, apparently from the
want of ventilation. The lighting of these indicate
the state, of the tide, which is ascertained by a pole
attached to a float, which rises and falls along a
graduated scale on the wall of the keeper's house.
There is an Argand lamp in a window towards the
town, which is lighted merely to show that the keeper
is there. Things looked badly cared for throughout the
establishment, and the keeper did not know the time.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE ET COMMISSIONERS.
41
The bell is in the centre of a large parabolic re-
flector built into the house, and facing the sea. It seems
to be of iron covered with some white composition.
It is struck by three hamnaers alternately, which are
worked by machinery, the motive power being a
falling weight that has to be wound up every half
hour. It has a clear sound, but did not give the im-
pression of beitig very loud even when heard from the
front of the reflector.
There arc buoys on each side of the channel out-
side Boulogne Harbour ; but they are small and do
not watch well.
dropping on the reflectors, injured their reflecting Lelaiul.
powers. Small cups required to be fitted to catch
the oil.
The keeper stated that 1 argand lamp burnt about
I pint in 12 hours.
The keeper thinks the rocky point consisting of
limestone is being blasted away too much, as in gales
of wind the sea now breaks much higher than it used
to do.
Examined the oil account to see if there was Consmnytion oj
any great difference between the expenditures in the <"V.
different years. 1856, 812 gallons; 1857, 812 gallons;
1858, 823 gallons. Again to compare months.
September, 18-59. — Captain Ryder and
Mr. Graves visited the followin"- lighthouses
in IRELAND and SCOTLAND.
161. THE HOOK— No. 135.
19th September 1859. 7 a.m. The illuminating ap-
paratus is catoptric with twenty-one burners. The
reflectors were very old. The head lighthouse keeper,
Peter Page, appeared intelligent ; he had been twenty-
nine years in the service of the Ballast Board. His
previous profession had been bookbinding. His
pay was 64/. 12*. 4d. per annum, and the assistant
received 46/. 3s., but it cost them 21. a year to send
for their provisions.
There was no lightning conductor. It is remark-
able that we find no record of lighthouses having been
struck by lightning, although many of them have
no conductors. There are two fog bells rung by
machinery. The keeper thought that one, placed on
the point, would be heard better. The sound from one
bell appeared to be much obstructed by a portion
of the wall which projected in front of it. There
were no signals ; the keeper suggested, and we after-
wards received evidence tending to show, that a tide
signal at the Hook to indicate when the bar was
passable for large vessels, would be much valued.
The oil appeared to be clean and good. The chimneys
are broken at the rate of about 150 to 200 in the year.
The water consumed by the keepers is rain water
collected in a cask. They are not supplied with filters.
A cistern had been received some weeks prior to our
visit, but no one had arrived to erect it.
The lighthouse is inspected once a year by the
Engineer and some of the Commissioners. Medicine
chests are not supplied in Irish lighthouses. Each
keeper is allowed an acre of land in which to grow
vegetables. No wreck has taken place within sight
of the lighthouse for 4 years.
The paint was in fair order, but the tower, an
edifice of very considerable age, appears to admit the
damp readily, the walls being covered with damp
marks. A barometer, thermometer, clock, and sun
dial were on the premises.
The ventilation appeared to be ^-ery imperfect, the
smoke settling on the windows and top.
The accommodation for the keepers who lived in
the tower was very indifferent, two rooms only for
each family. The time for lighting the lamps was
sunset, and for extinguishing them sunrise, this by
almanac if sun is not visible. They had a smaD
number of books supplied to them, but they had not
been changed in 6 years.
There was a great deal of brassivork about the
lamps and reflectors, which was kept highly polished.
The reflectors were removed once in 6 months for
the purpose of giving a thorough polishing to the
silvering, but every week to polish the backs. In
some lighthouses the brasswork is allowed to become
a natural bronze coloui-, and is rarely cleaned. This
saves much risk to the reflector. No tools of any
kind are supplied.
There appeared to be a great deal of rotten wood
in the lantern framework.
This lighthouse has been supplied with new
patterned lamps, which, however, leaked, and the oil
I. F
1858.
1859
January
96
98
February
78
78
March
71
71
April
55
57
May
48
47
June
39
38
July
J6
45
August
55
5S
September
65
October
82
November
December
91
97
II. 231.
823
Asked the keeper what was the largest amount
of difference in gallons between the expenditures of
two consecutive years which he thought would be
allowed to pass unquestioned ; would 50 gallons ? Yes,
he said. He should not expect any notice to be
taken if his account one year was 50 gallons over his
previous account, as there was a great difference
between oils. The best oil burnt quickest. We then
visited the
162. FORT DUNCANNON.— No. 136.
It has three argands, and is situated in a corner of
the fort. When in one with an inshore lighthouse,
the line is a leading mark for crossing the bar. The
keeper succeeded his father ; as his presence is not
required during the day, he receives only 21/. per
annum. There are no lightning conductors. The
paint was in good order, but the ventilation very in-
different.
163. NORTH DUNCANNON.— No. 137. Vol. II. 232
The keeper here has 46/. a year. There was no
lightning conductor. No water barrel or tank. The
ventilation was very good, the house orderly, and lan-
tern very clean.
164. MINE HEAD.— No. 140.
\o\. II. 233.
Visited this lighthouse on 20th September, 5.45 p.m.
The illuminating apparatus is dioptric of the first
order. The head keeper had previously been at
Tuskar. No lightning conductor. No fog or telegraph
signals. About 4 chimneys are broken in 12 mouths.
The keepers and their families have to drink rain
water, they have no filter, and require a cistern. The Water.
machinery revolves by aid of a rope, which has broken.
It took 20 minutes to shift the rope working the
lamp by hand all the time. No medicine chest was
supplied, nearest medical man was 5 miles off.
In the means used for communicating from the lan-
tern to the house of the keeper off duty, there is a
marked difference between the lighthouses in Scotland,
(all of which are fitted with voice tubes), and the
lighthouses in England and Ireland; in none of the two
latter did we observe any such arrangement. It
requires only two minutes to shift the lamp.
Consumption of oil 400 gallons a year, less than qH
half the quantity burnt at the Hook, where there are
only 21 burners.
42
APPENDIX TO EEPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Ireland. On the 20th September, at 9.1o p.m., visited the
165. YOUGHAL.— No. 141
Vol II -'a-i lio-ht. Its illuminating apparatus, is third order,
fixed. The lighthouse keeper had been the butler
of one of the Lighthouse Commissioners. He
had apparently turned his experience in cleaning
plate, &c. to good account. We were particularly
sir lick with the neatness and polish of everything in
an J. about the lighthouse. Receives 46?. a year.
No lightning conductor, no signals of any kand.
Breaks about 4 chimnies in 12 mouths. Burns 124
gallons in the year. Has no cistern for water, only
barrel. Has not been inspected for more than two
years. . .
The accommodation in his house and the ventilation
of the lantern are very good.
On the 21st September, at 10.30 a.m., visited
Vol. II. 234. 166. BALLYCOTTIN— No. 142.
Dioptric, 1st order, intermittent. There are two
keepers, one at 64Z. the other at 46/. a year, and
a foo- bell winder at 36/. No lightning conductor.
Water Breaks 2 chimneys a month. There is no water on
the island, it is brought in a boat that is paid for
attendino- on the lighthouse. A cistern which had
been sent from Dublin, was not fitted. There is no
medicine chest, the doctor lives 7 miles off, and the
island is sometimes inaccessible.
The revolving machinery was very much out ot
order, the weights had in consequence to be increased
to 15 cwt., and in consequence a new rope rove,
which was already slightly chafed.
This had been reported at head quarters, but
nothing was to be done until inspector made his visit.
The weight of the machinery that rung the bell had
a fall of only 12 feet, and required to be wound up
every three quarters of an hour.
On 21st September, at 3 p.m., visited
Vol. 11. 235. 167. KOCHE POINT, QUEENSTOWN.-No. 143.
The illuminating apparatus is catoptric, fixed;
9 red chimnevs to seaward, 8 white towards harbour.
There is only one keeper. He has 12 children.
Eeceives 64/. a year. Has repeatedly asked lor an
assistant. There are no signals. He breaks a chm-
Water ney every night. There is no water cistern. The
keeper complains of the hardship of having stone
floors in his dwelling house. Everything at this
lighthouse appeared to be in good order, all the re-
flectors were covered with brown paper. The accom-
Birds modation is good for a small family. The keeper
informed us that on one occasion a duck got into
the lantern through the cowl, and fluttering round
broke nearlv all the chimneys, and put out the lamps.
As there" are great complaints of this lighthouse
not showin<r well beyond a short distance to seaward,
we think it advisable to state that we saw no symptoms
of neMect any where. If, however, lights require
careful and constant attention to prevent them burn-
ing dull, we deem it probable that where there is only
one keeper, considerable intervals will elapse without
any attention being paid to the lights. It is not
possible that in a long winter night of fourteen hours,
one keeper can keep his attention constantly alive,
he v\'ill, we believe, inevitably go to sleep.
21st September, 5 p.m.— Visited
Vol. II. 235. 168. SPIT LIGHT, QUEENSTOWN.-No. 144.
Dioptric, 4th order, on iron piles. One keeper and
an assistant. The lamp was in fair order. The
keeper thought that some piles should be driven
round the light to keep vessels from fouling it. It
was stated that a more jiowerful light was going to
be substituted for the present one.
23rd Septtmber, 3.20 p.m.— Visited the
Vol II. 211. 169. BEEVES ROCK LIGHT.-No. 155.
in the Shannon.
Dioptric. There are two keepers, one at 46/. an Iceland am
the other at 36/. There is no lightning conductor Scotland.
nor are there any signals. One glass a mouth is
broken. There are no cisterns for the water, it is
brought from the shore in a boat that is paid for
attending on the lighthouse, seven and sixpence a
week for two trips. The keepers who wish to go to
church must pay their own way, no Ijoat being pro-
vided.
The accommodation was good, but there was a
want of bedsteads. There was a small library which
had never been changed. Not been inspected for
2 years.
23rd September, 6 p.m. — Visited the
170. TAEBEET— No. 154. Vol. II. iM'
lighthouse.
Catoptric. 19 reflectors. One keeper at 64/. No
lightniug conductors or signals. Breaks 12 chimneys
a month. Burns about 650 gallons a year. The
pump water was reported not to be good. There
was no medicine chest ; the medical man charged
the lighthouse keeper 1/. for every visit.
23rd September, 9 p.m. — Visited
171. KILCEEDINE— No. 156. Vol. II. Ji
lighthouse.
"Catoptric 2d order burners. Ventilation not good,
four more holes required. Porches to the doors
would be great comfort to keep the wind out. There
was a small library which had been lately changed.
The keeper had 2 acres of land, kept 9 sheep and a
cow. Depended on rain water.
24th September, 10 p.m.— Visited
172. MUTTON ISLAND— No. 160. Vol. II. -
lighthouse.
"Catoptric. 13 burners (bright). Keeper receives
64/. a year. Breaks 12 chimneys a month. Accom-
modation sufficient. Ventilation might be improved.
This light is complained of as being very often the
reverse'of brilUant. There is only one keeper.
29 September, 7-30 a.m. — Visited
173. HOLYWOOD \o\. II. 3
light. Belongs to Haibour Board, Belfast.
"Dioptric (red). One keeper, who is also pilot
master. Eeceives 21. a week. Has two gongs, but
both are cracked and almost useless. Has only broke
one chimney in five years, owing to great care in
•Gradually heating and cooling them and keeping them
quite upright. The pilots live in the lighthouse,
which is on piles. The lighthouse is inspected by the
engineer to the Harbour Board twice a year. There
have been no accidents, but the lighthouse has
narrowly escaped injury from collisions. A''entilatiou
good, but the glass dull on inside in damp weather.
Accommodation poor. The bedroom chimney smokes
so much that the fire cannot be lighted, and it is
therefore very cold in winter.
There are four other lights, all of which were
visited. Thev are called the Dekjiotle light ; the
Michael E.uxr light, so named after a previous keeper;
these TWO are on piles — and the two Cottage Island
lighthouses. There is one argand in each of the foirr.
The keepers are superannuated labourers. The
rooms they live in are generally very dirty, and the
lio-hts. which show through a cracked bull's eye, have
a^verv neglected appearance, but the captains who
na«« them constantly say they are quite sufficient.
30th September, 8 a.m.— Visited the lighthouse on
174. CUMBRAE TRUST .Scotl^).
at the entrance of the Clyde. This lighthouse belongs ^^^ jj ^
to the Cumbrae Trust Commissioners.
Catoptric. 15 reflectors 21^ inches in diameter.
They are removed twice a year to clean their backs.
There are two keepers, one has 60/. a year, the other
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COIDIISSIONEES.
43
50/., with £rarilen3. There are no fog signals, but
there are 3 small guns used for saluting, charge 1 lb.
The keeper thought that if the guns were used as fog
signals there would be an echo amongst the hills
which would deceive the mariner as to the where-
abouts of the signal. There is a cistern for rain.
The light is inspected occasionally by Commissioners
and secretary. The watches are four hours long ;
keeper rings a bell for relief; never leaves the lantern
till relieved. The lamps are fitted to lower on a rod
out of reflector, which admits of the latter being
cleaned -ivithout removal.
30th September, 10-15 a.m. — Visited
175. TOWARD
light, belonging to the Cumbrao Trust.
Catoptric, holophotal, revolving. 3 reflectors, 25
inches in diameter. The lenses were in front of, and
attached to the reflectors.
The assistant keeper is boarded by the head keeper,
the latter receiving 201. a year for it, the former 6/.
There is a lightning conductor. Head light keeper
has seen a great deal of lightning, has known bell
wires to melt. Breaks one chimney a month.
Lighthouse is of iron, very damp. Lantern is to be
lined with wood. There is an alarum in the light
machinery, but neither spare lamp or bell for assistant.
Accommodation fair. Ventilation good. The ma-
chinery goes for 9 hours, but is wound up every
4 hours. The rope is changed end for end every
year till worn out ; has never broke. Has chamois
leather in bottom of chimney boxes, and consider that
it prevents the glass chimnies cooling too rapidly
when they are taken off.
30th September, 11 am. — Visited the
176. CLOCH
lighthouse belonging to the Cumbrae Trust.
Catoptric, 9 reflectors.
No lightning conductors, no fog signals ; only
about 4 or 5 daj's fog in the year, about November.
Breaks 20 chimnies a month.
Ventilation indifferent ; obliged to keep door open,
which causes a very unwholesome draft of air. The
keeper had noticed that the Toward light since it had
been made holophotal was much improved.
A gunner at Dumbarton Castle, two boatmen, and
the commander of the " Neptune," Kilmun steamer,
bore testimony to the general efficiency of the lights.
They said they knew of no complaints, but acknow-
ledged that the Cloch was much brighter than any
of the Clyde lights.
'27th September 1859- — Mr. Gladstone
visited the hghthouse on the
177. COVESEA SKERRIES— No. 122.
in the Moray Firth. It is a first-class Scotch light,
fully provided and fitted up in the most approved
manner. It has a revolving dioptric apparatus like
that on the Skerry Vore. The astragals are upright,
but properly placed. A description of course will be
furnished by the Northern Board. The head keeper
had gone into town, the second was on sick leave, so
an occasional keeper was in charge, who seemed
to know little about the lights : otherwise all seemed
right. The fine large iron pile beacon on the Skerries
was observed.
1st October. The
178. GARMOYLE
light on the Clyde was boarded, and it was discovered
that Captain Ryder and Mr. Graves had been there
the previous night. The keeper, who lives there with
his wife, little son, dog, and cockatoo, said that he had
had no relief whatever for the last 20 years. He has a
boat. The lamp consists of a cistern with two arms
placed at an angle, each provided with a straight
wick. It does not swing, and hence on rough nights
much oil is spilt and much smoke produced ; even
then, after a calm night, there were dark patches on
the glass of the lantern. There arc no reflectors or
lenses.
The Garmoyle light has sometimes broken adrift.
As coals were being taken in at the time no opinion
could be formed of its general cleanliness or tidiness.
Visit to Glass Works, Birmingham.
Dec. 23rd. — The Commissioners visited the works of Birmimjliam.
the Messrs. Chance. They were accompanied by Mr. — —
James Chance, who has special charge of the light-
house works, and Mr. jMasselin, the engineer, a French
gentleman. The glass is manufactured on tlic pre-
mises. Specimens were shown, and the whole process
explained. The glass is of a very superior quality,
and seemed quite equal in colour to any that has
been seen at home or abroad. It was superior to a
specimen of French glass shown by the Messrs.
Chance, which had a decided blue or green tinge.
The glass is made in covered instead of open pots,
and improved glass it is hoped will be produced.
Besides clear glass, coloured glass of many shades
is manufactured on the premises, where about 1,000
hands are employed.
The grinding of prisms and lenses is performed in
a large building by the help of machinery of a
superior description to any yet seen. The required
curve on the reflecting surface is given by a rubber
fixed at the end of an arm worked by steam power.
Numerous contrivances have been introduced by
Mr. James Chance, Avho took a high place aK
wrangler at Cambridge, who calculates all the angles,
and seems fully to understand the requirements of
the manufacture of lenses, a most difficult and com-
plicated process.
Every lens and prism is tested when made, in a ji[odc of testing
dark shed, with a very small gas flame placed in the apparatus.
assumed conjugate focus for the eye of an observer
placed at a considerable distance outside in the other
focus The whole polygonal lens is in like manner
tested when complete, and for that purpose it is fixed
in a frame of brass. The Messrs. Chance consider
that it is a mistake on the part of the Lighthouse
Authorities to order the glass portion of a lens from
one manufacturer, the brass work from a second, and
the lantern which is to contain the lens, and the
lamp which is to be used in it, from a third or
fourth. They complain that they are not informed
of the nature and size of the light which it is
intended to place in the lens which they are instructed
to make. They consider that the lens and all be-
longing to it should be constructed as a whole ; and
in this view the Commissioners agree, if any one
manufacturer is able and willing to contract fur all
parts of the illuminating apparatus at a reasonable
price. The Messrs. Chance state that they have not
been allowed to tender for the brass work of the
lenses manufactured by them, though they have been
obliged to make brass work in order to test the lens
before it left the premises, as the fixing of the
prisms is very important; this complaint appears
reasonable.
With reference to coloured glass, it was stated that Direction of
particular shades have been tested ; various shades ijeam.
were shown ; the subject of placing panels with
portions of the lenses complete, so as to alter the
direction of a ray of light T\ath reference to the
horizon and the altitude of the light was discussed.
Mr. Chance held that it was impossible to alter the
optical properties of a lens when once ground by
placing it in any position with reference to the light,
except the one for which it was intended and made ;
but he admitted that which is equally clear that a
great portion of the light produced is now thrown
above the horizon, and the quantity lost is greater
the greater the elevation of the light. The question
of placing metal reflectors inside the glass of revolving
lights on the side, which was not required, was also
discussed. The engineer at first maintained that
F 2
44
APPEXDIX TO llEPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AXD BEACOXS :
this could not be done, but on being sbowu how,
admtited tlie practibility. Small reflectors are now-
placed close to the electric light at South Foreland,
and work well. The subject of casting lenses was
mentioned. Mr. Chance does not approve of the
principle. It was decided by the Commission to
examine Mr. Chance as a witness on some future
occasion.
23rd March 1860.
Present : Admiral Hamilton, Captain Etder,
Mr. Graves, and Mr. Gladstone.
The Astronomer Royal called and conversed with
the Commission on the subject of lighthouse appa-
ratus. His views appeared to accord with those held
by the Commission in many respects. It was pro-
posed to visit a lighthouse for the purpose of testing
the position of the lenses with reference to the hori-
zon and the flame. Various plans for so testing
the apparatus were discussed, including the erection
of a mast outside the lighthouse, and various other
schemes.
The drawings of Mr. Stevenson were shown to the
Astronomer Royal, and he was informed of the obser-
vations made at Biarrits, and at some other places,
with reference to the quantity of light now apparently
lost on the sky.
There are three large silvered reflectors with a bad y-j^^, ^^j^g,,
surface. The light is produced in each reflector from '
three twisted cotton wicks placed in a square saucer
of tin which goes through the back of the reflector,
and is filled with oil. There is no glass chimney ; Old apparatus.
in short the lamp is exactly the same as the common
lamp hung in the poorest fisherman's cottage, and
as old as the Italian tombs. The wicks were lighted
and the three gave out clouds of dense black smoke.
The whole building is as black as the inside of a
chimney, and the old man who has managed this light
for 40 years, stated that, on certain nights, the smoke is
so dense inside the lantern that a man cannot be distin-
guished at a distance of three or four feet. The upper
part of the reflectors were covered with a coat of soot a
good half inch thick. The tin reservoir prevents the
light from falling on the lower part of it ; con-
sequently the reflectors are almost useless.
The head keeper from the outer lighthouse attended,
and stated that he could only sec the light (distant
about 400 yards) on windy nights, when the ventilation
is best. A few pounds spent on three lamps to suit
these three reflectors would make the light service-
able. Meantime it appears to be the very worst that
has been seen by the Commission at home or abroad.
oth April. — "Walked from Ramsey to the
181. POINT OF AYRE.— No. 84.
Vol. II. 173
3rd April. — The Secretary observed the
;. LIVERPOOL BUOYS
in Victoria C'hannel. The conical buoys were rock-
iiio- very considerably though there was not much
sea on.
The cones bent oyer till their sides wore perpendi-
cular, or rather overhung the base ; the BpII buoy
rocked very much. Supposing the Bell buoy to be a
model of one of the proposed light towers, the oscilla-
tion was much more than that of the mast of the
lightship near it. Supposing the conical buoys to be
the steadiest form of Herbert's principle, even then
the oscillation of the top was more tlian that of the
mast of the lightship,l)ut then the sea was much heavier
in proportion to the size of the buoys. On landing,
inspected the lighthouse at
;. 179. THE HEAD, Douglas, Isle of Man.
This is under the Commissioners for Northern Light-
houses, and was handed over to them by the island
authorities a short time ago. A new house for the
keeper has been built.
The reflectors were in the usual good order, but the
lamps were not so good, being the old lamps. The
whole establishment bore the appearance of an old
inferior light, handed over to better keeping, and in
process of '(■hange. The communicating whistles had
been introduced, and other changes were in progress.
The head keeper subsequently stated, tliat when he
first came, the reflectors were no better than those at
the end of the Douglas Pier. That is very bad.
T'ricd a large plano-convex lens in the place tor the
flame, and saw the horizon and a great deal of sky.
Tried a smaller lens and saw no horizon, but all sky.
«/ It follows that the lower part of the flame is all
reflected on the sky, though these reflectors have
been set by the keeper with a slight downward
inclination, and though it is only 104 feet above the
s-a level.
4th April. — Inspected the
180. PIER LIGHT at Douglas.
Then! is a good tower and an excellent lightrooni.
and inspected the lighthouse. It is a tower built in the
middle of a sandy common, which has no road over it
for the last mile or so. The keeper stated that it was
very difficult to drive goods to the house. On one
occasion the cart was upset, and a tram broken, and
they had to gather up their provisions from a sand
heap. The keeper states that there had been a great o,yj,p,;„„ ^y
deal of correspondence on the subject of a road, j^^,,,^
Found the reflectors in very good condition. The
lightroom well kept. There are four sets of lights, Expcrime,,!.
of three reflectors each ; two sets being red.
The colour is produced l)y the chimneys. Tried
several plans for ascertaining whether the reflectors
were properly placed, and whether the light of the
lamp really falls in the largest proportion on the
sea, or elsewhere. In the first place ascertained that
all the lower tier of reflectors were placed on the
same plane, by placing the head firmly against the
glass of the lantern in such a position that the reflected
image of one eye was seen in one reflector on the
same level as the reflected image of the horizon. On
making the machine revolve the horizon appeared as
a continuous and nearly straight line in each successive
reflector.
PERSOXAl, OnSKUVATIOSS MADE EY COIIMISSIONEKS.
45
emispherical Next placed two plano-convex lenses of diflercut
t hicknesses on the lamp, Hat side downwards, and found
that no rays from the horizon fell on the thinner one.
lagc on iniiis- Next caused one of the lamps to be lighted, and cut
rent screen, out the size of the tlame in thin paper foiled that, and
.stuck it on to the glass chinuiey, and found that it
entirely masked the flame from the back of the reflector ;
and then extinguished the lamp. Then turning the
jiaper to the outer side, by turning the chimnej', an
inverted image of the horizon, and the landscape out-
side was formed on the paper ; and the general posi-
tion of the objects seen were marked on the paper
with a pencil.
Now, as a ray of light proceeding from A to B
follows the same course as a ray proceeding from B
to A, whatever be the optical arrangement traversed,
this experiment seems to show fairly what parts of
the landscape are illuminated by the lamp, and the
lermil uhsn- i"esult is that of a piece of paper 2x1^ inches more
lion. than one-half, which answers to the lower half of the
flame, was covered by the image of the sky, and of
the remaining half fully two thirds were covered by
the image of the ground near the lighthouse, so that
of the light of two inches of flame only about one
suli. third of an inch was thrown on the sea by the
reflector, and the lower and most luminous portions
■\\'ere reflected above the horizon on the sky.
The keeper stated that the light could be seen from
the shore, that is, from one of the points seen on the
paper inside.
As the light shines on hills also, it is in a peculiarly
favourable position for proving the truth of the
/■/„.' ,,4sf,-- experiment. Accordingly sent for a lad at Ramsey,
'«. who had been up at Prince Albert's tower " at fire-
work time," and who said he had seen the light from
that station " sometimes in, sometimes out, going all
round." Now, North Barroole is 1,8-50 feet high, and
Albert Tower about two-thirds, say, 1,200 feet. It
is, therefore, proved that the light, at the Point of
Aye, is iiot thrown in parallel beams on the horizon,
but in widely diverging beams on the land, and on
the sky, above and below the horizon, and that only a
narrow band of the flame of each lamp is reflected on
the sea where it is wanted.
The experiment, therefore, taken eitlier way, is
conclusive, and shows that only a very small portion
of the light produced is used in the proper plane ; and
because the' revolving light shows all round, so much
of it as falls on the shore is wasted, even when it
docs fall on the proper plane.
Now, surely, there must be some optical arrange-
ment by which this waste can be avoided. Taking a
lamp shade as an illustration ; it would be easy to
prevent the light from falling on the upper half b}'
simply placing a reflector round the central band
where the sea image was formed parallel to the horizon.
F
That arrangraent would prevent the light from isle of Man.
being cast on the sky and mountains, and a further '
arrangement of cylindrical lenses would surely gather
up the rays so as to f\ill on the sea ; but at present it
is quite certain that when the flame is too low, little
or no light is thrown on the sea at all.
The keeper at Point of Ayre sees in fine weather
Bahama Bank, St. Bees, Little Ross, Mull of Gallo-
way, and mentions in his book at 9 p.m. whether he
sees them or not.
6th April. — Inspected the harbour light at
182. RAMSEY.
The people had notice that the place was to be
inspected ; the floor was sanded, and the walls
tolerably clean. The house is a tower of loose
masonry on the end of the pier. It overhangs the
base very considerably, and when the sea dashes
against it, the water passes through the walls. The
keeper has made a hole at the door for the water to
run away. The light is produced by an Argand
burner with a red chimney placed in the focus of a
reflector, which is constructed of four tiers of bits of
common looking-glass, set about a centre of the same
material. In short, the same kind of reflector which
was lately shown by Professor Faraday as a curiosity
at his lecture, and is preserved in the museum of the
French lighthouse authorities in Paris. The lamp
and reflector are fastened to a bar of iron, and revolv©
about it for cleaning, but the bar slopes with the
tower ; the oil flows from the lamp when it is on the
lower side, and it must flow unevenly when the reflector
is in the proper position for showing the light. The
keeper gets 6/. a year, and he or his wife is ex-
pected to visit the light three times on winter nights
and twice in summer. He said there were complaints
of the light, but there was no inducement to pay it
attention. " The house was neither wind-tight nor
water-tight." No other light is seen from the ancho-
rage. The Point of Ayre is lost about two miles ofl^,
consequently this is an important light. The keeper
complained that ho had no means of cleaning the
outside of the glass.
The man was so sunburnt that he did not look like
a keeper who spends most of his time in a lightroom.
And it subsequently appeared that he had just
returned from a successful run on board some vessel.
This light is neither well provided nor well cared for.
Gas is laid on close to the lighthouse, but oil is used
in the pier light.
7th April. — Inspected the harbour light at
183. PEEL.
It is a wooden building like a large sentrj' box, raised
on four legs, about nine feet high, and placed on the
end of the pier. A gas lamp stands close to it, and is
masked from the sea. The buy who takes care of the
light v/orks in a saw mill. Found him, and was told
that he got 6/. a year ; as for the light, " he just lights
it and leaves it."
He said that "' the rain came through the house," and
that "the wind blew through the ventilators." The
illuminating apparatus consists of two Argand burners
in the foci of two looking-glass reflectors, similar to
the one at Ramse}' ; the light is shown through a
window of common glass with small panes.
Anything like the filth of the whole place has not
been seen anywhere by the Commission. The walls,
the backs of the reflectors, the mirrors, and even the
windows were covered with a mixture of grease and
soot, the products of combustion, which had not even
been wiped for a very long time.
The oil lay in a pool on the floor, and bits of old
wick and scraps of dirt of every kind were littered
about. Asked the boy if he spent much of his time
in cleaning the place ; said " he just lighted it and
left it."
Walked to Port Erin and tried to get to the Calf
46
APPENDIX TO EEPOHT OX LIGHTS, 3U0YS, AND BEACONS;
lighthouse, failed for want of a boat, staid for a long 9tb ilay. — The same party visited the
time at the Sound, but there was no one moving on
the opposite side.
1st May.
Present : Admiral Hajultox and Mr. Gladstone.
Colonel La Touche, a member of the Ballast Board,
presented himself, and stated that a meeting of
members of Parliament had signed a paper and
passed a resolution as to the Ballast Board, and the
refusal of the Board of Trade to sanction the expense
of a steamboat, and that a question was to be asked
of the Government in the House.
It appeared that the Ballast Board formerly had a
.steamer which cost 20,000/., and which the Board of
Trade obliged the Ballast Board to hand over to the
Trinity House. That Board sold the steamer for
6,000/., and she was engaged in carrying stores to the
Crimea. She was subsequently sold to the Sultan
for 20,000/., and is now his yacht.
The Ballast Board are now obliged to borrow a
steamer from the Trinity House, and the vessel which
is lent to them is said to be unfit for the sea on the
west coast of Ireland.
They are also obliged to send oil and stores to light-
houses in sailing vessels, and the service often suifers
from delay.
A case was mentioned in which the Ballast Board
had been obliged to take a low offer in a contract for
houses at Tuskar, and had subsequently been obliged
to take the offer which they had originally wished to
take, as the contractor reported that his estimate was
erroneously made and too low.
18th April.
Present : Admiral H.«irLTON, Mr. Graves.
and Mr. Gladstone.
Special inspcc- The specifications of the Lighthouse Boards were
turns. looked over.
4th May. — Admiral Hamilton and Captain Ryder
attended.
Astronomer The Astronomer Royal looked over the specifications
Jiot/al. sent by the Trinity House and the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses, and compared the drawings and
lithographs. ' Secretary read the paper drawn up by
him ; showed part of the scientific returns ; Mr.
Chance's answer, &c.
8th May. — Admiral Hamilton, Capt. Ryder, ^Ir.
Gladstone, and the Secretary, accompanied by the
Astronomer Royal, proceeded by rail to Tt>tness and
drove to Tor Cross.
See icoodcui. The evening was wet, and a haze in the atmosphere.
After dark observed the light on the Start Point dis-
tant four miles from the beach in front of the hotel.
The revolving beam could be made out after it had
passed, and showed in the haze somewhat like the
tail of a comet.
From the sea the beam appeared to strike upwards,
and it was determined to ascend the hill behind the
inn, to observe whether the same appearance would
continue, and to what elevation.
The light was observed from various points, and
was clearly seen at the highest point reached. It
appeared to strike upwards at first, then at right
angles to the light tower, and finally downwards.
The point where the beam appeared to point down-
wards, was estimated to be higher th.an the light, and
in daylight it appeared to be so.
Direci'wn of The beam appeared to diverge. Tliis observation
beam. ' confirms those previously made elsewhere, and proves
that a considerable portion of this light is thrown on
the sky, and lost to navigators.
184. START LIGHTHOUSE.— Xo. 144. Vol. II. 86.
The comparison of this light with foreign lights
in the mariners' evidence is on the whole unfavour-
able to it. Of seventeen comparisons ten are un- .Vi.r.'/iera'
favourable. It is marked 1st order dioptric, fixed Evidence.
and flashing, and the catoptric lights along the
same coast are more favourably spoken of by the
witnesses. One object of the visit then was to try to
ascertain if any cause could be discovered in the
lighthouse for the unfavorable notice of a first order
dioptric light, which, in the ojiinion of the Commis-
sioners, should in this position be of the very best
description.
On entering the lantern, the cause was sufiiciently
evident, and the observations subsequently made
confirmed the first impression.
The apparatus is on the same principle as that at _\p„aratus.
Inch Keith in Scotland, and Biarrits in France.
The central band of revolving lenses consists of
eight, which are " built up " on the plan originally
designed.
The glass is green and full of flaws, the surfaces
are not evenly ground, and the distance of the lenses
from the central lamp varies considerably. The
whole contrasts unfavourably with Lundy and similar
modern lights.
The fixed light is produced by a series of small
curved mirrors placed above the lenses, but there arc
nc such mirrors below ; and the light which falls in
the direction of the land, is not used at all. On
further investigation it appeared that the mirrors were
intended to be set so as to cast parallel l)eams at risht
angles to the tower, and consequently the greater
part of these beams must be thrown above the sea
when the mirrors are so adjusted, uut on examining
them closely it was found that their positions varied
materially, and that they varied from each other in
their construction. On looking downwards on a large
plano-couvex len?^ placed on the burner, the mirrors
could be seen reflected in the place of the light ;
and a reflected image was also seen of those parts of
the landscape on which a beam of light, produced at
the lamp: would fall, after it was reflected by each
mirror.
It was apparent that in some the horizon was not Direction oj
seen at all ; in some the image was all sky, in others all *f ""> ; ""'
sea ; and the place of the horizon varied sensibly
Avhen it was seen. So far then as the fixed light
was concerned, the appearance observed from Tor
Cross was ex]dainod.
The fixed light was very faint on the beach. On
ascending the hill it was lost altogether, because
there are no rain'ors at all iu that direction.
Several attempts were made to obtain an image
of the landscajie from the lenses, at the place of the
lamp, as was done at the Point of Ayre (see Isle of
Man minute), and at last by the following arrange-
ment an image was seen on paper. All the glasses i.nisc.-:
were taken out of a telescope, and a bit of oiled himiic of
paper tied over the end of one of the sliding tubes, lau'lscape.
The tubes were then drawn out so as to form a shade
in front of the paper, and another behind it for the
eve, and the telescope was placed on the burner with
the paper screen in the ])lace of the centre of the
flame.
The lamp had been previously lit, 'the flame /v./i/ie.
measured, and then extinguished, and from the ex-
periment it appeared that of a small flame, less tlian
one half on either side of the focal plane, throws light
on the sea through the lenses, while more than one half
shines on the sky ; and that the revolving light seen
by the mariner is mainly derived from the upper jiart
of the third or central flame.
The fou'-th wick is not used, and the flame was
PERSONAL (..BSERVATIONS MADE BY COJDIISSIOXEES,
47
le and 'S JuV*
\nage of ha d- j
'■ape. \
u
'■ '
o
H
sl^'^'Ii
Flame at tlie Start Lighthouse, and position of the
inverted image formed bj- the lens appearance of the light-
liouse beams.
according to the regulations of tlie Trinity House Special inspcc-
(as stated by the keeper). '""'*■•
Furtlier observations were made by the Astronomer Asironumer
Royal, of ■srhich he subsequently communicated an ^".'/a'-
account to the Commission.
Dr. Gladstone took notes of several matters, Notes by
among which were the following : — ^''- Gladstone.
The lamp pedestal was not quite level. The outer
flame was only 1 incli high, but the central flame
rose to a height of 2 ' 75 inches.
The panels bearing the lenses formed very nearly
a circle ; 0*2 inch being the utmost divergence ; but
the centre of this circle did not coincide with the
centre of the lamp by 0' 5 or 0' 7 inch. The character
of the several lenses is given in the following
table : —
Height
Panels.
Focus of
lens.
focus
above
burner.
Observations.
Frame
vertical ?
Incli.
No.l.
Bad, and be-
hind lamp.
1-S
Upper parts of annular seg-
ments very defective.
Tes.
No. 2.
Good - -
1-9
3rd segment has two dif-
ferent curvatures.
"~
No. 3.
.
1-S
Flattening in centre of lens
Tes.
No. i.
Good -
19
Very variable
No.
No. 5.
■
1-7
5th segment has a better
curvatiire than any other.
Tes.
No. e.
Good -
1-8
Central lens badly shaped.
2nd segment bad.
—
No. 7.
In front of
lamp.
Beliind lamp
1-7
Kjiot in middle of lens
Tes.
No.S.
1-8
1st segment bad ; the others
Tes.
fair.
There are 133 mirrors arranged in 7 rows of 19
each. The keepers state that they readjust these
twice a year ; but the adjustment was so various
that when looked at in a semispherical mirror placed
on the burner some showed sea, some all sky, and
others gave broken images.
The annexed drawing of
the appearance of six con-
secutive mirrors was made _^ _
at the time. The shaded S1!F^\^\
part represents the image ' 1 \0^'
of the sea, the light part ■ ■
that of the sky,
The chain for the revolving apparatus is a " Jack
chain " not welded ; it has broken several times.
The result of the visit seemed to be that the Hesult.
evidence given by maiiners is accounted for by the
apparatus, and that the view previously taken is
sanctioned by the authority of the Astronomer Royal,
who was of opinion that the centre of the ray should
be directed not above the horizon, but to some point
within it.
On leaving tie lighthouse returned to Tor Cross
and drove thence to Dartmouth.
Inspected a harbour light, 185. It is placed in a
tower of some size, with a large plate glass window, the Dartmouth.
colour (red) is produced by a screen of red glass sus-
pended in the window, the light is produced by the
usual Argand lamp and silver reflector. There was
no provision whatsoever for ventilation.
The room was damp and the window fogged.
The woman who keeps the light complained that she
and all about her suflered from colds, and that the
house leaked terribly. The roof is flat. There can
be no doubt that the products of combustion account
for a considerable part of the dampness.
May 10th. — Returned to London. Admiral Hamil-
ton and Captain Ryder proceeded to the Channel Vol. II.'
Islands, and were joined at Southampton by Mr.
Graves. {See Remarks — Jersey and Guernsey.) 6
lights seen. 191.
F 4
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, B0nYS, AND F.EACONS :
Special inspec-
tions.
Admiralty —
Portsmouth.
Vol. II. i»9.
May 31st. — Admiral Hamilton, Captain Ryder,
Mr. Graves, and the Secretary went to Portsmouth,
embarked on board the '' Sprightly,'' and examined
the buoys in the Solent under the management of the
Admii'alty.
On crossing one of the creeks near Portsmouth
several boats used for the purpose of shooting wild
fowl were observed from the train. They were
painted white as a means of concealment.
On leaving Portsmouth it was remarked that all
Colour of buoys, the buoys on one side of the channel were painted
white, and the advantage gained by duck shooters
was well exemplified by the extreme difficulty of
distinguishing the white buoys on the water. Those
on the other side were painted black, and were much
more clearly seen. Those from which the white
paint had peeled off, leaving brown patches, were
better seen than those on which tlie paint was fresh.
Oral evidence. Qn landing at Cowes, and questioning cert.ain pilots
they said, with reference to white buoys, "we cannot
"■ make tliem out, we never see them at uight." The
disadvantage of white on the water has been suffi-
ciently proved elsewhere.
The buoys were all small, conical, and moored by
the apex. It was stated that during the ebb, at
spring tides, and with particular winds there, buoys
Buoys go under go under water for a time.
water. j^ j^^^^, buoy on Peacock's principle was being
placed at the Spit. The bell was sounding. The
buov was coloured black, it was loftj- and clearly seen,
but it was stated that a similar buoy moored outside
the Xeedles had capsized frequently.
The Commissioners were unanimously of opinion Cuik/u.m
that the buoyage of the Solent was inferior to that of
Liverpool and the Downs, where the buo3S are larger
and more conspicuous, and where they are dark in
colour.
The buoyage of Cowes harbour under a localautho- Cotres.
rity was complained of by the pilots examined.
These witnesses said that a buoy was wanted at
Peddleton Spit. That they were well acquainted
with the Solent, and did not care much about the
buoyage. They were satisfied with the New Trinity
House light at the Needles, and generally considered
the British lights superior to the French lights, which
they frequently saw. but Southsea Castle light under
the Admiralty they considered to be " a poor light,"
though they " did not look after it much. "
The Commissioners returned to Portsmouth and
then to London.
June 4th. — Admiral Hamilton and the Secretary
proceeded to Dover. Embarked on board the "'Vivid "
at nisrhtfall ; steamed to Dungeness and towards
XoTlh Foreland.
Lampflame.
Inverted image
formed by lens.
^'i'^ .
\
t--=_^
1 'I
W, :=
, 'A K.;'
' 3 cr
\ \ ,!'■■
OS -
1 V-'
l-EKSOXAL OBSERVATIONS JUDE BY COMMISSIONERS.
4.9
Grisnez, and returned to harbour at about 2 '30 in
the morning.
Observed the
192, 193. SOUTH FORELAND
lights ; remarked that the upper light appeared very
inferior to the electric light which was seen there
formerly.
Tlie lower light has never been changed, and gives
a standard of comparison. It was remarked tliat the
upper light (dioptric) showed less well from the moutli
of the harbour, but that as the vessel receded it
seemed to become brigliter as compared with the
lower catoptric light.
It was assumed, therefore, that the flame is placed
with reference to the refracting apparatus rather
lower than it ought to be, as at tlie Start, or tliat the
flame itself was rather too low.
194. DUNGENESS
was pronounced to be an inferior light ; on passing
near, it was observed that the light varied very per
ceptibly in various azimuths as the vessel passed
the reflectors. This defect is inseparable from a
fixed catoptric light on the present system, and does
not exist in fixed dioptric lights.
The " Yivid's " head was then put in the direction
of 195, Grisnez, and run on a direct course towards
the light till Dungeness entirely dipped. This it did
after running 14 miles, the precise distance given in
the Admiralty directions as that at whicli Dungeness
is visible. Grisnez came in sight at about five miles
from Dungeness, distant about 18 miles. The night
was not clear.
There could be no doubt that the light at Grisnez
was more powerful and of a whiter colour than that
at Dungeness. Tlie same difference in colour was also
remarked in the upper and lower lights at Soutli
Foreland. Grisnez is, however, a revolring light,
and ought, therefore, to be more powerful than the
South Foreland, which is Jixed dioptric. The latter
was more powerful and of a better colour than
Dungeness, whicli is fixed catoptric. The position,
therefore, of Grisnez, with reference to other lights,
may account in some degree for the preference given
to it over other foreign lights. It is the most powerful
form of dioptric apparatus contrasted with less power-
ful dioptric apparatus, and with the least powerful
form of catoptric apparatus placed at Dungeness.
Observed that the harbour lights at Dover were
very bad.
June 5th. — Landed at Margate and drove to
196. THE NORTH FORELAND.— No. 29
to see the new apparatus lately erected. (For a
description of the old apparatus, see page 33.) The
new lantern has diagonal bars, and is a well executed
work. The new apparatus is dioptric, first order,
fixed, the brass work bright.
A square of ground glass cut to fit the supposed
size of the flame, has been provided. It was placed
in the centre of the burner, and it was ascertained
that the image of the horizon, formed by the central
band of lenses, occupied the same position all round.
It was therefore proved that the lens was properly
put together, and that it was set upright.
The place of the horizon and of the shore, and of
objects visible at sea, were then mai-ked on the
ground glass with a pencil, and a drawing made.
(See woodcut, page 48.)
The upper prisms were examined, and the appear-
ance of the landscape noted, and it was seen that the
greater part of each ring was occupied by an image
of the sea. The lower prisms were also examined
and it was found that in these very little was to be
seen but sky.
(. The lamp was then lighted, and the appearance of
the flame drawn on the ground glass. (<S'ee tvoodcut.)
It appeared that the best part of the flame coin-
I.
cided with the image of the sea, and that very little Special in-
of this light is needlessly thrown on the sky, except »P<^<^'"""-
from the lower prisms, which should be raised a little to
give their full effect. The lamp has four wicks, all used ;
it is a moderator, worked by a weight, and the flame
produced was rather too high for the supply of air^
for it smoked. The keeper said that he liad not yet
acquired the art of regulating it, nnd that he thought
some change should be made in the shape of the
chimney or that it should be lowered.
The part of the circle where light is not wanted is Itefieclois.
occupied by two large metal reflectors, these were
found to reflect a large quantity of light to the place
of the flame, but their form was rather irregular, still
on placing the eye near the flame the whole surface
of the reflector was seen brilliantly illuminated.
A narrow band of red glass placed outside the lens, lied liyht.
causes the light to show red in a particular direction.
This apparatus appeared to be very well con- Conclusions.
structed and arranged. The lamp requires attention,
and some person acquainted with its working, should
be sent to instruct the keepers in this and in all cases
where any novelty is introduced.
It appeared as if this apparatus had been con-
structed on the usual plan, to throw a parallel beam
from the centre of the flame at right angles, and the
lamp raised so as to bring the horizon near the wick.
If this were done the light falling on the lower
prisms would be thrown rather above the horizon, as
was found to be the case. The same effect would
also be produced on the light from the upper prisms,
unless they were raised to suit the lamp, but it was
not observed whether this had been done.
On returning to
197. MARGATE,
examined the harbour light, in charge of a local
authority. It is in a lofty well built tower, and con-
sists of three common batswing gas burners, without
any attempt at reflection or refraction. The red
colour is produced by placing some small panes of red
glass loose in the window of the lantern. The light
may serve the purpose of a harbour light, but it
cannot be powerful.
Observed the buoys in the Thames and many Thames buoy-
floating lights, which appeared to be efficient but age.
which contrasted most unfavourably with the small
dioptric shore lights seen in France, which consume
but a small quantity of oil. It was again remarked
that experiments should be tried to apply the dioptric
system to floating lights. A hollow mast, like the ^"^f "^ *^*'^"'
funnel of a steamer, to act as light tower, and the
lamp to be balanced as a compass is, or some such
plan might be tried so as to preserve a constant level.
There do not seem to be any mechanical difficulties
that could not be overcome.
June 6th. — Returned to London. The chaii'man Astronomer
and secretary called on the Astronomer Royal at the ■^''^°'-
Observatory and showed him the sketch made at the
North Foreland, and told him what had been done.
Secretary attended at the office; wrote minutes,
and sent out correspondence ; wrote to chairman
suggesting certain points for the 'notice of Mr. Airy
at the North Foreland.
The keeper at the North Foreland having been Experiment;
requested to make certain observations sent the sunlight.
following letter and a card, which was left with him
for the purpose of making an experiment on the appa-
ratus.
" North Foreland Light,
" Gentlemen, '• 7th June 1860.
" In obedience to your instructions I beg
respectfully to present the enclosed, the result of two
observations of the sun at rising. Should further
information be necessary, I shall be happy to give.
" I am, &c.
" (Signed) Jas. Chapman, Keeper."
'• To the Royal Lighthouse Commission."
The Secretary was directed to send cards and a
letter to certain lighthouses.
G
50
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS ;
Special Inspec-
tions.
Rcmll.
A number of lighthouses were selected for their
elevation, ami cards were sent with the following
letter accordinjily.
" Royal Commission, Lights, Buoys, and Btacons,
" 7 Millbank Street, S.W., London,
„ g;p_ ' " 11th June 1860.
"I AM directed to request that shortly before
sunrise or at sunset you will place one of the enclosed
cards upright across the centre of the burner in the
dioptric apparatus, so as to rest on the metal, and
present one side to tlic point on the sea horizon where
the sun rises or sets, as the case may be.
" In the case of a revolving apparatus one side ot
the lens must be set opposite to the point of sunrise or
sunset, previous to making the observation.
" When the sun besins to appear above the horizon,
or as it disappears, a bright light ought to appear on
the card placed as directed.
'• You are requested to mark on the card the exact
position and form of that light.
" If the heat be so great as to scorch the paper so
much the better. .
" You are also requested to note whether similar
bright lights appear in more places than one, either
on °the cards or on the metal work of the lamp, or
elsewhere, at the time of the observation, and if so,
you are requested to ascertain from what part of the
apparatus these stray lights proceed.
" Y'ou are also requested to draw on another card
the general form of the flame when at its usual
height
than in either. At North Ronaldshay (140 feet)
it is rather lower. At AA"hitbj- (240 feet) the horizon
was about the same as at Xortli and South Foreland.
At Grisnez (194 feet"' the image is formed nearly
half an inch Jiigher than at Calais (190 feet). Skerry
Yore 1^1 50 feet) and the Start (204 feet) are the
same. Lundy (o40 feet) is the loiccst of all. The
positions of the images formed by the reflecting
prisms and mirrors were found to be equally various
in the lighthouses where the experiment was tried by
the Commissioners, and where the cards sent by the
keeper's give information.
June 17th. — Admiral Hamilton and Mr. Gladstone,
accompanied by the Astronomer Eoyal, went to
Dover.
They visited the red and green harbour lights, and x)oief.
looked at them from distant parts of the harbour.
The red appeared respectable ; the green light was
only distinguishable as the dullest of the lights round
the harbour, and by a greenish or bluelsh hue not
ver)' discernible.
June 18th. — Captain Ryder and the Secretary
joined the other members of the Board and embarked
for Calais.
With reference to the electric light, now removed, jrjectric
the captain of the steamer stated that he had often ecidence.
" carried the electric light of the Upper South Fore-
land Light into Calais harbour when he could not see
the lower catoptric oil light at all."
In fogs he has seen the rays of the upper light when
he could not see the light itself. " It shone on the
sea near Dover ; " the other, the oil light now used.
It may be well to repeat the experiment at sunrise ^^^^ ^^^ ^^j^^ ^^ ^^^ ^_^^ ^J^^.]^ ^^ ^^^ °^^ ^^^^^^ j^^ ^^
or at sunset on difterent days so as to check the
observations.
'• The object of the experiment is to ascertain the
position of the dioptric apparatus with reference to
the flame and the horizon, and to test the adjustment
of the diflerent parts of the apparatus.
" When the first experiment has been completed, on
another morning or evening have the goodness to
say, the divergence is less). The lower light does
not shine on the sea near Dover at all.
198. CALAIS.
The Commissioners visited the lighthouse at Calais, Or
The tower Is a handsome building, the entrance paved
with black and white marble slabs, forming patterns ;
and ornamented with busts of Fresnel and Beautemps
place another card at right angles to the position Beaupre. All the metal work of the stairs was
formerly occupied by the other, so that the light may beautifully polished
fall on the edge of the card, and mark the direction of
the lines of light which will appear on the sides of
the card, and return the whole to me by post.
"I am, &c.
" J. F. Cajlpbell,
" Secretary."
Lighthouses to which a copy of this letter was sent :
Dundrum Bay
Scilly Bishops
Korth Ronaldshay
Skerry Vore
I^orth Foreland
t above the By whom
ea level.
observed.
62
110
Keeper.
140
Keeper.
1.30
Keeper.
184
Observed ; *
Keeper's
observation
the same.
190
Observed.
194
Observed.
204
Observed; and
Keeper's the
the same.
240
Observed.
244
Keeper.
285
Observed.
372
Observed.
540
Keej>er.
Calais
Grisnez
Start
Whitby -
Rathlin -
Mine Head
So'ith Foreland
Luudv
A number of these cards were subsequently returned,
and from them, and from other observations made for
and by the Commission, it appeared that the elevation
of thelight above the sea does not regulate the position
of the lamp with reference to the image formed bv the
lens. The distance of the image of the horizon from
the burner is the same by observation at South Fore-
land (372 feet above the sea) and at North Foreland
(203 feet). At the Scilly Bishops (110 feet) the
iiua'^e of the sun was formed on the card rather AiV?/"/-
* OiiSERVED by persons connected
Aslror.omer Koyal, &c.
vith the Ci>uiinissiGn,
The tower has no floors, it is 57 metres high, and Buildm .
is ascended by a corkscrew stair. The keepers'
room and the lightroom were well furnished, and the
lantern surrounded with slabs of coloured marble,
polished. The building in this respect is similar to
the Tour de Baleine ; and there is no lighthouse in
the United Kingdom in which there is so much
ornament.
The illuminating apparatus is dioptric, first order, Appciatu
fixed, with a flash, similar in plan to the small light
at St. Sebastian in Spain. A fixed light apparatus
with a series of three upright piano-cylindrical lenses,
revolving outside. The eff'ect is to produce a fixed
stead}' light, of the full power attained by the use of
such apparatus, darkened for a short period, and the
dark interval succeeded by a brilliant flash.
The light was observed on the following evening obsen;at,t.
from the South Foreland upper light, and was con- k
sidered to be very powerful though less brilliant I
than the light at Grisnez, as seen from the same spot *
on the same night. The keeper at the South Foreland '
anrreed in the opinion formed from this observation. [
The same observation was made from Dover b}'
the members of the Commission, and the same con-
clusion arrived at.
It was also remarked from Dover, that some of the
flashes from Calais were brighter than others. (See
letter from the Astronomer Royal on this point, dated
June 2oth, 1860, which contains his remarks as to
the French trip, and account of his subsequent pro-
ceedings at North and South Foreland.)
The lantern bars are upright, so are the divisions
in the bands of glass. There are mirrors on the
land-ward side ; but it was remarked that these were
not so well polished as similar mirrors in England.
The lamp has four wicks. The whole was in re-
markably good order. The keeper stated that he
cleaned the glass apparatus with spirits of wine and
chamois leather.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS UADB EY COSnilSSIONERS.
51
On examining the placing of the apparatus it
appeared that the central bands and the upper prisms
were well ]ilaced with reference to the light; but that
nearly, if not quite all, the light reflected by the
lower prisms is lost on the sky.
The Astronomer Royal was requested to report on
this and the other lights visited.
In the evening the Commissioners returned, and the
dimensions of the flame were accurately taken, with
a view 10 comparison with flames elscwliere. It was
better and steadier than anj' flame seen in England.
It was remarked that the lantern was surrounded
with a net of wire, and its use was exemplified by a
museum of stuffed birds, all of which had been
caught, or had killed themselves at this light. These
included many rare small birds ; a bittern, some
large cormorants, and a swan.
The keeper stated that he was occupied in cleaning
the glass when the swan flew against the lantern,
just above his head, it broke the glass, and injured the
lens so much that it cost some 3,000 or 4,000 francs
to repair the damage. The man considered that the
force was suflicient to have killed him, if he had not
been seated at his work.
The superintendent of the district, Monsieur de
Lanois, accompanied the Commissioners in the evening
and explained to them a system of ventilation of his
own invention, which has been adopted in several
French first-class lights. It consists of tubes, which
are intended by the inventor to conduct cold air to
the lamp down the same chimney in which the column
of hot air ascends.
The Commissioners were unable to ascertain that
these currents were actually descending, and cannot
understand why they should, but the lamp certainly
burned well and ver}' steadih%
The two lights at the South Foreland were observed
from the French coast that same evening ; the upper
one, that is the dioptric, was decidedly the brighter of
the two. It was the opinion of the Commissioners
that the Point de Walde light did not appear so bright,
when viewed from Calais, as one of the 3rd order
should have appeared.
199. WALDE.
On leaving Calais light in the morning, the Com-
missioners drove along the sand to the lighthouse at
Walde. This is a pile light, similar in construction
to the JIaplin in the Thames, — iron piles on screws
fixed in the sand. The illuminating apparatus is
dioptric, third ordei-, made of cast glass on the new
principle of manufacture, tried here as an experiment.
The image of the landscape formed by this lens
was inferior to the pictures formed by ground and
polished lenses. Straight lines seemed crooked, the
horizon indistinct, and generally the imperfect sur-
faces evident to the touch must produce much disper-
sion and loss of light.
^ 200. GRISNEZ.
iymrison of Compakisox of Grisxez, (which is mentioned by mariners, and
ifUh and compared oftener than any other foreign light,) with 12
•ingn liiihta. British lights.
S
- 1 =
■~
3
1 1 s
^-
Name of Light.
Nature
S^
'>
x's'i 1
.1
of Light.
^ r"
S
_£J
3 O "
^
!"
^
s
S"t o
*
*
o
*
O
1. Smith Foreland -
D. Filed
372
2.5
40
41
11
9
2. Flamboroueh
C. Flash
103
19
32
86
2
3
—
1
S. Beachy Head -
C. Flash
185
22
32
51
5
3
2
4. Start
D. Flash
204
19
18
47
3
—
3
—
5. Lundy
D. Flash
298
30
45
55
5
2
3
6. South Stack
C. Flash
201
19
—
24
—
1
—
1
7. Cromer
C. Flash
271
22
32
29
—
2
—
8. St. Agnes, Scilly
C. Flash
13S
16
20
3
—
1
—
1
9. Lizard
C. Fixed
329
20
30
76
1
4
3
—
10. Calf of Man
C. Flash
S75
2-1,
42
21
1
—
1
—
11. Dungeness -
C. Flash
92
14
—
2
1
—
1
_
12. North Foreland
C. Fixed
D. Flash
181
194
18
22
35
108
50
1
18
1
GSISNEZJ O
12*
Of the 12 lights compared with Griznez, 7 are Special Impcc-
said to be better, 5 worse ; Majority, 2 for British thns.
lights.
Of the 48 comparisons, 18 are for Grisnez, 30
against, majority, 12 for British lights.
June 19th. — The Commissioners started at 4 a.m.
and drove to C4risnez. As this light has been much
remarked by the mariners who have given evidence,
and as it is so favourably compared with other foreign
lights, it was important to discover if any reasons
existed for the preference over other foreign lights.
It was found to consist of an apparatus of the same
description as that at the Start ; 16 faces of lenses
revolving, 7 rows of mercurial curved glass mirrors
above, and four below ; but inside the revolving
portion of the apparatus, and on the landward side
two large metallic reflectors are placed.
On examining the position of the apparatus, the Direction of
horizon was high, 1^ inches ; but on examining the ieain.
mirrors they were all found to be set, so as to throw
their reflected beams on the sea.
The keeper stated that he set them without any
instrument, by the horizon itself; he also pointed out
the height of the flame, which was about the same as
that used at Calais.
According to sketches made by Dr. Gladstone at Observations Ay
the time, the image of the sea horizon as reflected Dr. Gladstone.
from the upper mirrors, generally cuts the flame
in a plane considerably higher above the burner than
was the case with the upper reflectors at Calais, and
thus a larger quantity of light is thrown by them upon
the sea, and, perhaps, also upon the horizon. Again,
the image of the sea horizon, as reflected from the
lower mirrors, generally cuts a very luminous portion
of the flame, and does not impinge upon the burner
itself, as was found to be the ease in many other
lighthouses. Thus both the upper and lower series
of reflectors are most efficiently adjusted. The lamp
also was found to be perfectly central ; and the
metallic reflectors were better polished than is usual
in France. The lenses on the whole were well made,
the annular segments especially being much better
than at the Start.
The following are the dimensions of the image Woodcuts
formed by the lens in the place of the flame. ( See page 53.
u-oodcut p. 53.) Focal length, three feet ; horizon, li Secretary.
inches above the metal of the lamp, which corresponds
with the brightest part of the Calais flame. A house
at the edge of the cliff to the northward, 4 inches ;
the edge of the clifi' to the westward, 8i inches ;
height of flame about 5 inches.
The reason therefore for the favourable mention
of Grisnez appears sufficiently manifest. The flame
and the optical apparatus are properly set with
reference to each other, and to the horizon ; and the
flame is of the right size for illuminating an angle
extending from the horizon to within a short distance
of the lighthouse.
Whereas at the Start the mirrors are set so as to Start and
throw nearly all their reflected light on the sky ; Grisnez.
there are no mirrors on the landward side, and the
flame produced is so low that nearly the whole of it
is thrown on the sky by the lenses.
The elevation of these two lights being the same
within 10 feet, and their apparatus the same in
principle, the comparison is unfavourable to the
British light.
One of the keepers had been in the French
navy, and was very proud of a Crimean English
medal which he showed. Few birds are killed at
this station, and there were no wire screens round
the lantern.
G 2
62
APPfiNDIX TO EEPOP.T OX LIGHTS, BUOYS AXD BEACOSS :
SpeM Inspec The Commissioners returned to Calais and thence
tions. to Dover. The Secretary drove to the
201. SOUTH FORELAXD— No. 30
Woodculs, and compared the position of the image formed ^7 tj'®
piwe sa. lenses. {See wood cuts on page opposite.) The
flame was also compared with the drawing made at
Calais, and it was found to be less steady.
Flame. It had more sharp points ; it was lower, and gene-
rally it appeared to be a worse flame ; there are but
three wicks used.
The observation made from the " \ ivid on t le
last occasion was accounted for, as also the remarks
of the Captain of the Dover steamer.
Direction of The sea near Dover is illuminated by the narrow
beam. points of the upper part of the flame, and the horizon
and the parts of the sea near it. by the lower and
brio-hter portions. No light at all falls on the sea
below a point opposite to the base of the lower liglit-
house ; none at all at the edge of the chff. Ihe
experiment inside was verified by walking to the two
points last named.
Selthig prims. The keeper stated that the lower prisms had been
carefully set to throw a le\'el beam very lately, by
placing a red ball of about an inch diameter on the
lamp, and looking through each prism in turn along
a spirit level outside till the ball was seen.
The result of this is, that the best of the light must
be thrown here, as elsewhere, to the geometrical and
not to the visible horizon, the elevation of the light
being 372 feet, and the sea liorizou distant 25 miles ;
the prisms are set to throw a beam from the place
occupied by the red ball at a height of more than
700 feet above a vessel on the horizon, while the
mirrors at Grisnez are set by the keeper without any
instrument, to throw their beams to the visible horizon
itself, and on the sea below the horizon.
Divergence Now it is sufiiciently evident that the flame placed
electric light. in a dioptric apparatus of this size must be ot certain
dimensions to cover a certain portion of the sea,
namelv, about four inches, to reach in this case from
the horizon (on which the electric light was seen
from Boulogne) to near the place from which the
electric lisht was seen from the Calais steamer. It
was then sufiiciently intense to cast a marked shadow
on one hand from the other. It was also stated
by the keeper that the electric light was not more
than one eighth of an inch in length, and that half
an inch from point to point of the carbons extin-
guished it. The light was equally weU seen m
all directions, so it could not have been phiced
out of the central focus, and it remained to be ex-
plained how it had been made visible over such an
an<'le. It was previously remarked that two small
mirrors were placed on either side of the light, osten-
sibly to clear the bars, but it seems that as these
mirrors have a certain height as well as breadth, they
and they only were the cause of this divergence.
' Plane rejleclor To try this, a common mirror was placed behind
' experiment. the flame of the oil lamp, and the keeper was directed
to slope it downwards and move it about. The result
was as had been anticipated, that an observer placed
in a field within fifty yards of the lighthouse saw a
brilliant light from the lens and lower prisms, when
he could before only see the stray light reflected on
I the roof of the lantern.
and Mr. Chance were agreed as to the best method of
remedying these defects, namely, by setting the lamp
lower so as to suit the position of the prisms, which
now throw their light too high, and then lowering
the central band of the lens to suit the new position
of the lamp, cutting oflf so much of the central band
as may be necessary from the lower portion, and sup-
plying the gap caused at its upper edge with a new
zone if required. ^J
On this point the letter of the Secretary to the Mr. James
Chairman, of the 4th instant, was read to Mr. Chance, (-'^"nre.
and he agreed that the suggestion therein contained
was substantially the same in principle, and only
varied from his proposal in the manner of accom-
plishing the object.
After some conversation with Mr. Chance, a letter Meeting mO
was prepared, inviting the Elder Bretlu-en to meet Trinity lim
the Commissioners and others at the lighthouses at
North Foreland and TVhitby, on some day in next
month.
July 9th. — Admiral Hamilton and Secretaiy. Let-
ters sent to Trinity House, Ballast Board, Northern
Lights Commissioners, and French Authorities.
Astronomer
Royal.
July .5th.— Admiral Hamilton and Dr. Gladstone
met at Macartney House, Blackheath, and were joined
by the Astronomer Royal and Mr. Chance of Birming-
ham, who had previously met at the Observatory.
The Astronomer Royal stated that he had pointed
out to Mr. Chance, the defects which he had observed
iu the illuminating apparatus at Whitby, and that he
Dr. Gladstone went down to Portsmouth. In the observatiot
evening he observed 182. the Warner from Southsea. Dr. Gladstf
It was a very distinct light.
July 10. — Dr. Gladstone examined the light at
the end of the pier at
202. RYDE.
It stands on a tall strong post, and consists of
an oil lamp surrounded by a dioptric apparatus.
The lamp has a large single wick, in the middle
of which is a large button that rises as high as
the bright portion of the flame, and must obstruct
a great deal of light. The dioptric apparatus is a
lenticular cylinder, with two segments above the
central lens'and two below it. It appeared well made, '
of good glass, and in good order. The lamp had not
been cleaned since the previous night.
The light shows all round the horizon.
July 11th.— Dr. Gladstone visited the lighthouse
at
203. ST CATHERINE'S HEAD.- No. 34. Vol. II. i
He confirmed the remarks of the Secretary made
after his visit August 14th. In addition he paid
particular attention to the illuminating apparatus
and lamp. The apparatus bears the name of
Wilkins, and the date 1840. The lenticular zones
are of poor ghass from Newcastle ; the prismatic
zones are of much better glass of French manufac-
ture. The central bands bring the horizon of the
sea to about 0.75 inch above the wicks of the lamp, but
some of them bring it 1.1 inch above and others only
0.65 inch. The keeper stated very circumstantially
the height of the flame as ordinarily burnt. The
bright bodv of flame extends (he says) to a height of
from 2^ to"2i inches, and he raises or depresses the
wicks till he obtains all the three circular flames of
the same height, so that the flame is even at top
instead of being tapering. By keeping the passages
clean he prevents the formation of points of flame.
The strongest part of the flame is stated by him to
exteud from half an inch above the wicks to 1^ inch.
Tlie lenses, therefore, are fairly placed, but some of
the lenticular segments do not agree in focus with
the central lens, and there ai-e irregularities in their
grinding.
In order to see the horizon in the lowest prismatic
zone of the upper series, it was necessary to look two
inches above the forther edge of the lamp; to see it
in the second a smaller elevation was necessary, and
so on, till with the seventh zone the horizon was seen
in a line with the edge of the lamp, the line of the
horizon as reflected from the sis higher prisms cut
[read on to page 54,
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS ILVDE BY COMMISIONEBS.
GRISXEZ,
SOUTH FORELAND
From a tracing on ground jjlass. Tlie flame from
measurement of tlie Calais flame. The land-
scape as it appeared in the image formed by one
of the revoh-ing lenses. Grisxez. June 20th
1860.
From a tracing on ground glass. The flame from
measurement. Tlie vessels as they appeared in
the central band. South Foreland. June
20th 1860.
G 3
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Special Lispec- '^^ ^"P "^ ^'"■' l^MP- From the lower series of pris-
tions.^ matic zones the image of the horizon was only seen by
glancinjr a little on one side of the nearer edge of the
Observations by lamp ; they were evidently, therefore, of little or no
Jh. Gladstone, value for sending the light to the horizon or sea.
The chief keeper (Mr. Cummins) had been a lamp
maker before entering the service of the Trinity
House. When first at the Eddystone he burnt
three wicks, but the inner wick was afterwards
discontinued, without, he thinks, a loss of light. The
heat of the exterior wicks causes (he says) the inner
wick to become gununy and thick, and sometimes to
smoke. A button in the middle improves the com-
bustion. He' prefers a fountain lamp, such as he
has, and never finds any practical difficulty with it,
but in cold weather he wraps the pipe round with
thick woollen cloth.
As the oil flow's more or less freely, according to
the temperature, he regulates by simple contrivances
the height of the inner cistern, so as to give more or
less pressure of oil. He prefers a lamp glass with a
large open cylinder.
July 12tli.—
II po, 204. THE NEEDLES.— No. 3.5.
Lighthouse was visited. In addition to the remarks
of the Secretary on August IStli, it may be recorded
that the distinction between the red and white beams
is made sharper by (he placing of sheets of red glass
(like horses' blinkers) at the junction of the two
colours and radially to the lamp ; nevertheless, the
keeper has heard that in passing from the one
beam into the other, an orange light is perceptible
from on board ship. Three wicks are burnt, but
orders have been given to burn four in future, but
they have not been executed yet. The head-keeper,
who was once assistant at St. Catherine's Head,
considers the fountain lamp excellent if properly
managed. He prefers a lamp glass with a square
shoulder .and a straight cylinder above. The illumi-
nating apparatus is by Sautter, and was erected in
1858.
The glass is very good, and the optical parts are
very regularly made. The horizon is brought by the
lenticular portions to 0.75 inch above the lamp, the
flame extending, according to the keeper's statement,
2.5 or 3 inches with a good body of light. The upper
series of prisms exhibits the same phenomena as that
at St. Catherine's Head, but to a smaller extent, the
line from the horizon as reflected, in most of them,
cutting the lamp itself. The lower series also resembles
that at St. Catherine's Head in its position with re-
ference to the flame. Thus although this light
is jdaccd at no great distance aliovc the sea level, the
reflectors are so placed as to throw the light too
high. During the first part of the visit the fog
bell was being rung, but it required attention, as
it stopped occasionally. The keeper said that some
attempts had been made to set it right, but hitherto
with only partial success ; he sees the bell sometimes
vibrate farther thau at other times. It ought to ring
for an hour and a half without being touched. The
keeper said there was much fog about the present
position of the lighthouse, but far less than on the
cliflf whore the previous house stood ; indeed, he
has known a dense fog to last there for three weeks.
Tliere was one envelo])ing the upper part at the time
when the above statement was made.
thydrogai July 16th. — Dr. Gladstone had a long conversation
t. with Dr. Leeson of Bonchurch, on the oxy-hydrogen
light, lamp chimneys, coloured flames, and other
matters, which he promised to embody in a reply to
the scientific questions.
July 18th. — The light on Ryde Pier was observed
by night. It appeared very brilliant as seen from
different parts of the town. The Warner lightvessel
was showing a very bright light as compared with
gas lamps tliat were comparatively very near at hand,
Ihsea and its periodic waxing and waning was very distinc-
<''•' tive. The Southsea Castle Light was showing a
green light to all parts of Ryde, easily distinguished
from tlie white lights on the same coast by its colour,
but it was little (if any) brighter than some of the
gas lamps on Southsea Common, and far less bright
than the two large gas lamps at Portsmouth pfer,
although it is rather nearer to Ryde than those with
which it was compared.
The buoys between Ryde and Portsmouth were Defective
observed. ^ There was one of a conical form, on the buuijtiys.
top of which was something in printing characters.
It was evidently supposed that it would lie somewhat
on one side, indeed it was painted with that view, and
thus the ^\Titing would be seen ; but on the contrary,
the buoy was riding M-itli its apex i)erpendicularly
downwards, and the inscription was only legible from
the sky.
July 30th. — ^Present : Admiial Hajiiltox, Captain First meeting
Ri-DER, Mr. Gladstone, and Mr. Dunbak. ,cith the Trinit
A deputation of the Elder Brethren, accompanied •'^<'"*^-
by Professor Faraday, met the Commissioners at 7,
Millbank Street, and heard from the Astronomer
Royal a statement of his observations made at various
lighthouses, which he had visited at the request of
Commissioners.
This statement was intended to inform the gentle-
men present of the jioints which were to be explained
more fully at the North Foreland Lighthouse on the
2nd, and at Whitby on the 9th August. The
meeting was summoned in order to inform the Elder
Brethren, and their scientific adviser, of these points
so that they might have time for preliminary con-
sideration of the subject.
Additional Observations of Dr. Gladstone
on matters under the charge of the
Trinity House.
August 1st. — Visited the Trinity House at Tower
Hill, and steamed from Blackwall to Ramsgate in
company with the Deputy Master and Captains
Bayly, Close, and Webber, in the yacht L'ene. This
vessel is intended for a swift seagoing boat, as it is
one of the duties of the Trinity House to accompany
Her Majesty when afloat. The " Irene " is the vessel
intended for this service, and has nearly the speed of
the Royal Yacht. Her lines are said to be the same
as those of the " Vivid," and she bears a close general
resemblance to that vessel. She is comfortably fitted
up. Beside the service above mentioned, and her use
on special missions of the Trinity Board, she is ordi-
narily employed in making inspections and carrying
stores or buoys to their destination. She had in fact
returned from such a trip only the night before.
She generally carries two spare buoys, that if in
the course of any voyage it be heard that a buoy is
wanting on anj- station it may be immediately sup-
plied. One of these is a wreck buoy, the other is of
the ordinary form, and is intended for replacing one
that may have gone astray, the proper marking of the
missing buoy being imitated on a painted canvas
cover, which is drawn over the substituti', and remains
on it till the duplicate buoy can be sent from the store.
Visited the
204. MUCKING No. 28.
Light. This is built on piles in the river, but com-
municates with the bank by means of a bridge. The
edifice is small, and not intended for living in, the
dwelling houses being on land, which hoM'cver is now
considered an unfortunate arrangement, as the
keepers and their families suffer much from the fever
and ague commonly prevalent there.
Tlie source of illumination is a fountain lamp, with
two wicks. The illuminating apparatus consists of
lenticular bands, without prismatic or any other
reflectors. A great deal of the light is therefore lost.
The glass and workmanship appeared good, and so
Vol. II. 78.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY CO.>DiIISSIONERS
55
was the adjustment of the lenses, the water line of the
opposite bank of the river cutting the flame 0-8 inch
above the lamp.
The light shows red up and down the river, but
white to passing vessels. In the white portion how-
ever there is a red beam to mark a buoy.
The fog bell was sounded, but did not work satis-
factorily.
The edifice was being painted at the time of the
visit, white with broad black stripes, which caught
the eye well.
Many observations were made in passing on
BUOYS IN THE THAMES, and at its Mouth.
One of Herbert's construction was noticed to be
lying over very much on one side. This was believed
to be from want of breadth at the bottom, as it was
one which had been made out of a buoy of the ordi-
nary form.
Other Herbert's buoys stood up well, for instance
that in the West Oaze.
vSome very strong Poulter's buoys were observed at
stations where, as at the Shivering sand, they are
very apt to be run into. In this instance the sphe-
rical device at the top was made, not of thin pieces
of wood arr.auged as the circumference of a globe,
but of stout planks in the form of half segments of
circles placed radially, and capable of standing a hard
blow. These buoys were very steady, having a broad
base, but it must be borne in mind that they were
observed on a calm day.
Some hollow pile beacons were passed. These had
been driven into the ground by atmospheric pressure.
They were very conspicuous. It was related that a
similar one was erected on the Goodwin Sands, being
sunk till it reached the chalk, and thus a permanent
foundation was obtained.
On passing the North Foreland Lighthouse a little
while before sunset, it was remarked that it could
scarcely be distinguished from the grey sky.
Saw South Sand Head and the Gull Lights burn-
ing in the distance.
Recent experiments on the firing of guns at
Holyhead, the comfort of keepers' houses, the peculiar
position of the men at the Seven Stones in this respect,
and other matters, formed subjects of conversation.
and contended that it was properly and accurately Special Inspec-
placed, so that the best part of the flame illuminated ''<""'•
the horizon.
The burner was then replaced, and it was remarked
that the position of the horizon seemed to vary from Direction of
that formerly observed. Mr. Wilkins stated that the ^"J"'^ ^ ^g
lamp had been lowered one eighth of an inch within "'^P"^'^
the last three days. The distance from the horizon
of the image formed in the place of the flame to
the brass work of the apparatus was measured on
a bit of ground glass, and compared with the drawing
made on a previous occasion, and the card sent by the
keeper at the i-equest of the Commission, which shows
the place of the sun at sunrise to correspond with the
position of the horizon as marked in the drawing.
The difference between the present and the former
position of the burner, according to these observations,
was found to correspond with the statement of
Mr. Wilkins.
The effect of the change made is to improve the
position of the lamp with reference to the prisms, and
to injure it in a corresponding degree with reference
to the lens, but as the flame at this lighthouse has a
considerable height, this alteration does not materially
affect the amount of light thrown by the lens on
the horizon.
The question then for consideration is, if any, or
what alteration should be made in this apparatus as
now placed.
Whether to lower the lamp still more, so as to
throw the light from the prisms still lower, and to
lower the lens till it occupies its former position with
reference to the flame, or to raise the lamp to its
former position, and alter the prisms as suggested by
Monsieur Sautter, or to make some other alteration,
or to leave the apparatus as it is.
It was remarked that the shoulder of this chimney Angular
produced a dark line in the light of the lamp, as shoulder of
viewed from outside the apparatus corresponding c/'imne^.
exactly to the image of the horizon.
MEETINGS AT NORTB[ FORELAND
AND WHITBY.
August 2nd. — Admiral Hamilton, Mr. Gladstone,
Captain Ryder, and the Secretary, met at the
ol. II. 7'J. f J '
'isii to Aorti, 207. NORTH FORELAND— No. 29.
orelaiid, with Lighthouse. They were accompanied by the Astro-
^prcsaitatives ^^^^^(.^ Uoval. They were met by a deputation of the
'■mse Bmnh Elder Bre'thren of the Trinity House, consisting of
e. &r.. ami the ^''^ Deputy Master, Admiral Gordon, Captain Bayly,
'.itnummer Captain Close, and Captain Weller, who were accom-
'".""' panied by their scientific adviser Professor Faraday.
They were met by Mr. Thomas Stevenson, who at-
tended on the part of the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses ; by Sir James Dombrain, Captain
Roberts, and Mr. Halpin, who attended on the part
of the Ballast Board of Dublin ; by Monsieur Sautter,
the maker of the optical portion of the apparatus,
who had come from Paris ; and b}' Mr. James
Chance, the maker of the optical portion of the
apparatus at Whitby, who came from Birmingham,
and by Mr. Wilkins.
The Astronomer Royal pointed out to the gentle-
men present the defects which he had observed, the
lamp being lit, and as many of the party as possible
being within the optical apparatus, and in the lantern,
where they could best hear what was said.
The lamp was subsequently extinguished, and the
burner removed, two cross strings were fixed in the
apparatus to indicate its centre, and a wire placed on
the axis of the instrument. Monsieur Sautter pro-
ceeded to show the method which he considered to be
efl^ectual for exhibiting the qualities of his apparatus,
G
August 3d. — Admiral Hamilton, Captain Ryder,
and Dr. Gladstone met and talked over the proceedings
of the previous day. C'o/)^ Ryder.
Captain Ryder read a paper in which he had
entered what he had gathered as the views of the
difterent persons who had spoken yesterday, in which
the questions now before the Commission, and for
future consideration, were stated very clearly. The
paper contained diagrams, and the writer argued that
the most important question was, " What are the most
brilliant parts of a lighthouse flame of the best
description ? " in order that the point may be settled
before it is decided, what is the best position of the
lenses and prismswith reference to the flame. Photographs.
Dr. Gladstone was requested to consider what were
the best steps to be taken to decide this question,
and the photographs of lamp flames already made by
the Secretary were looked at. He was requested to
make photographs of a lighthouse flame at various
other angles of vision, so as to experimentalize on
the various angles of flame presented to the surfaces
of the upper and lower prisms and the lenses, and
for this purpose to proceed with Dr. Gladstone to
make the experiment accordingly. y'l" Drawing
August 7th. — The Secretary made certain photo- aui onhil ^
graphs of a lamp at the establishment of Mr. Wilkins,' volume.
which he printed on the 8th, and showed at Whitby
on the same day.
August 8th. — Admiral Hamilton and the Secretary
went to
208, 209. WHITBY,— No. 6, 7 \\ hitbv.
and met Professor Faraday at York. The minute of Professor
the observation made at the Point of Ayre, on the Faraday.
image formed by a reflector, was read to Professor
Faraday, as also the minute of the visit to the North
Foreland.
The drawings made at the North and South Fore- ^"9^ 49, 53.
land and at Grisnez were also shown to the Professor,
and sundry photographs.
56
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BrOYS, AXD BEACONS :
On arriving at Whitby, rrofessor Faraday, accom-
panied by the Secretary and Mr. Halpiu, visited the
two lighthouses, made sucli observations as could be
made iu the short time available at the north light-
house, and examined the lamps at both, after they
vrere lit.
The general impression arrived at seemed to be
that the account given by the Astronomer Royal in
his letter to the Chairman was conlirmeil by these
observations.
Professor Faraday will in all probability report his
views on this subject to the Elder Brethren of the
Trinity House.
August 9th. — Admiral Hamilton, Captain Eyder,
and Dr. Gladstone visited the lighthouses.
Ml-. Graves was prevented from meeting the
Commissioners, and telegraphed to explain the
cause.
The Deputy Master of tlie Trinity House, Captain
Close, Captain Bayly, and Captain Nesbit, accom-
panied by Professor Faraday met the Commission.
Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Halpin were also present,
as well as INIr. James Chance, the maker of the
apparatus. Monsieur Maselin (his assistant), and
Monsieur Sautter from Paris.
Monsieur Sautter produced certain photographs
of a lamp flame which he had executed since the
meeting uo the 2d, and was so kind as to present
a copy to the Secretary for the Commission.
The Secretary in return presented to Monsieur
Sautter a copy of those taken by him on the previous
day.
Dr. Gladstone on the part of the Commissioners
pointed out what appeared to be the defects iu the
lighthouse apparatus, and his account of the meeting
is subjoined.
It appeared in the north lighthouse —
1st. That the lamp flame was inferior to others
seen elsewhere, though much better than some.
2d. That the lamp was slightly, about one quarter
of an inch, out of place.
3d. That the whole apparatus sloped towards the
sea, which defect is in favour of the prisms.
4th. That there are no mirrors on the landward
side, and, consequently, that about one half of
the light produced is lost entirely.
5th. That the image of the horizon is formed a
little too high by the refracting bands, but not
in such a degree as to make the defect impor-
tant ; especially if a better flame were intro-
duced.
6th. That the image of the horizon formed by the
upper prisms, falls rather too far forward, but
not in such a degree as to make the light in-
eflicient at a distance.
Tth. That the image of the horizon formed by the
lower prism I'alls too low ; below the edge of the
burner, so as to throw nearly, if not quite, all the
light which falls to the lower prisms upwards
above the horizon, except in the direction of the
other lighthouse, where there is a short panel in
which the prisms are generally well adjusted,
though not all.
8th. Tiiat the metal chimney above the flame is
too short below the first opening, because on
stopping that opening and altering the damper,
the flame was very much improved.
9th. That the form of the chimney was very defec-
tive, in that it has a sharp shoulder, which
materiall}' interferes with the direction of the
light.
It appeared to some of the gentlemen present that
in spite of the observations made from within, light
would in reality be seen in all jnirts of the apparatus
from the sea. It was decided to test that point by
the manner proposed by Captain Ryder.
The keeper was instructed to cover up the refract-
ing band at a preconcerted signal, and on returning
to Whitby the party embarked on board the Trinity
House Yacht, and proceeded to sea. On covering
i
the lens it was manifest that no light radiating directly
from the lamp was to be seen in the lower prisms,
but that a weak reflected light, that from the inside
of the lantern or from some other source was barely
seen through a telescope.
It appeared to some of the gentlemen that the light
would be seen at a greater distance, the vessel there-
fore ran some distance to sea, when the experiment
was repeated, and witli the same result.
It appeared then to be proved that the observations Result.
made from within were confirmed by those made
from without.
Where the light had appeared to be thrown too high
it was found to be invisible from the sea.
Where it appeared to be properly directed, it was
seen from a distance.
South lighthouse.
Similar observations were made inside. See Dr.
Gladstone's remarks.
It was observed from the sea that the light did not
appear as a continuous line when \-iewed through the
telescope, but as a broken line, proving that some
parts of the apparatus are not properly set for the
existing lamp.
The Chairman requested Mr. Chance to write to
the Trinity House, suggesting the alterations which,
as he thinks, should be made in this apparatus.
Professor Faraday wUl make his report to the
Trinity House, and it is proposed to request that
copies of these documents may lie furnished to the
Commissioners. c j
The Secretary made several photographs from ,,-J, j"^"'?^
rarious points to illustrate the proceedings, one from yoi //. goj.
a point between the lighthouses and below tliem, to
show the general position ; one of the south light-
house, from the gallery of the northern lighthouse,
showing the horizon, and, consequently, the angle of
dip.
It was subsequently found that on looking from
the other lighthouse, tlie horizon occupied the same
position with reference to the northern lighthouse,
and that both are on the same level.
Another photograph was taken from the gallery to
show the angle filled by the image of the sea.
And two were taken from the inside, iu which the
flame and the image of the horizon coincident with
it could be traced, and their respective positions
determined.
So far it is proved, therefore, that, under favour-
able circumstances, the position of the image in the
lamp flame can be photograjihically determined at
one observation.
191. One of the harbour lights at Whitby was
visited. There are three reflectors placed in a tower
with gas-light flames.
The chimneys are of green glass and peculiar in
their form.
The eflect of the bulging shoulder, though good as
regards the transmission of the rays, is bad as regards
the production of light. The lights from the sea both
showed green, and appeared efticieut, but the polish
of the reflector in this, as in other cases, was in-
ferior to that of reflectors in Trinity House, and
similar lighthouses.
T/ic following is the account of Dr. Gladstone : —
Having di-scussed some optical questions, and the o^. GtadsUm
Astronomer Royal's letter relating to the Whitby accounf.
lights, the party proceeded to tlie lights in question.
These are set on two white towers, with the usual
dwellings on a clifi" ; they are of thb same altitude, viz.
240 feet above the sea level, and are 2o8 yards apiirt.
The northern tower was first entered. The illumi-
nating apparatus was found to be first class catadiop-
trie, illuminating rather more than half the circle,
without mirrors at the back, manufactiux'd by Messrs.
Chance.
Mr. Masselin, who had superintended the fixing of
the apparatus on the site, tested the position of the
lamp by means of the cross string, and found it one
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONKES.
57
eighth of au inch too high, according to Fresnel's
rule, and only one sixteenth of an inch out of the
centre. From the interior of the apparatus Dr.
Gladstone then examined the relation of tlie diflerent
parts to the horizon and sea, and explained to the
Deputy Master, Professor Faraday, Mr. Stevenson,
and others what were considered to be errors of ad-
justment. The line of the horizon, as seen through
the central lentieular zones comes just one inch above
the lamp in the case of three of the panels, but
1 • 3 inch in a small panel to the south, and as high
as 1 • 4 inch in the remaining panel.
There was no apparent cause for this discrepancy
in the setting, nor could Mr. Masselin offer any ex-
planation. The upper and lower lenticular segments
generally agreed tolerably closely mth the central
lens of the same panel, but in some instances they
differed widely.
When the lamp was lighted subsequently, its flame
was found to be good for a height of about two
inches, so that only three of the panels were well set
for it, and had it been one eighth of an inch lower
(according to Fresnel's rule) so much good light
would have been lost, while even, as at present fixed,
the lenticular zones could send little light to a steamer
that happened to be passing at some distance and
o-ave an image three inches above the lamp, or to
smaller vessels that were still nearer to the shore.
Of the upper series of prisms the lower reflectors
were evidently adjusted for the focal planes decided
on by Fresnel, but the highest three or four directed
their light too much towards the sky. Of the lower
series of prisms, the reflectors had their focal planes
so low that nothing but sky was seen in them
through the place where the main body of flame is.
It was difficult to determine the position of the foci_
of these reflectors on account of the irregularity of
the curved surfaces, and the numerous strise in the
glass.
The colour of the glass was considered very good,
but it did not appear to be so free from blemishes as
the French. The astragals of the lantern are slant-
ing, but those of the apparatus itself are vertical.
"rhe party then proceeded to the southern tower,
and found the arrangements of the lantern and appa-
ratus similar to those already described, with the
addition of silvered reflectors on the land side, which
showed a good polish. The line of the horizon in
the central lenses, instead of being M inch above
the lamp, as Fresnel de-sires, varied in the five
panels from 1-4 to 1-5 inch, while the image of
a passing ship came 3-2 inch above the lamp. To
increase the mischievous action of this adjustment,
it is the square shoulder of the lamp glass that is
traversed by the horizontal line, and the lamp gives a
singularly poor flame. The keeper termed it a
2^ inch flame, but he reckoned from the metal to the
tips of the points. Reckoning from the commence-
ment of the yellow part, which was 0-5 of an inch
above the metal, to the top of the undivided luminous
mass, it only amounted to 1 • 0 inch, and scarcely
that for the outer ring ; so that in reality the sea,
even at the horizon, was being illuminated only by
the irregular tongues of flame, as far at least as the
central lenticular bands are concerned. When the
flame was improved (as will be presently described),
the body of iiame reached scarcely two inches above
the metal lamp, and the tongues rose at the highest
to 3-5 inches, so that even then the best part of the
light was lost. The remarks made on the prismatic
zones of the other lighthouse apply equally in this
case.
The lamp, as in the other house, has three wicks.
It is not considered an overflow lamp ; nevertheless,
there is an overflow of about one fourth of the oil
consumed. M. Sautter stated the French practice
to be to cause three or four times the amount of oil
actually burnt to overflow. The lamp glass expanded
very perceptibly from the bottom to the shoulder,
which was nearly square. When placed in position
I.
Special
Inspections.
Whitbt.
with its top entering the iron chimney it could not
be made perpendicular. There was an opening and
deflector in the iron chimney at the height of 2 feet
1 1 inches, another at the height of 6 feet, and a third
still higher. In order to test the effect of a longer
continuous chimney, Professor Faraday covered the
lower opening with paper, which instantly produced
more draft, evidencing itself by a depression and a
greater whiteness of the flame. By turning up the
wicks and regulating the damper, it was now found '
that a considerably higher flame could be maintained.
On removing the paper, this flame started up into
long yellow smoky peaks, showing that more oil was
being supplied than could then be completely con-
sumed. When the six feet continuous chimney was
lengthened by covering the opening at that altitude
also, a further improvement of the flame, slight
indeed, but evident, was effected.
During the course of this experiment it had been
discovered by looking from the gallery and adjoining
buildings, that a good light was shining from the
lamp in the northern tower, through the lower reflec-
tors in the direction of the horizon, and a better light
still in the direction of the sea, while little light was
proceeding towards the sky. Before going to the
northern lighthouse to ascertain the cause of this,
Dr. Gladstone re-entered the lantern, and observed
the image of the northern tower in the lower series
of reflectors through the flame then burning. In the
lowest reflector the gallery was just visible ; in the
second and third from the bottom, the middle of the
of the lantern ; and in the fourth and fifth the upper
part of it, while the sixth and highest was obscuied
by a bar. The party then returned to the northern
tower, and found that the small panel of lower
reflectors, through which the light had been seen
from the southern tower, is adjusted differently to
the others, and has, in fact, its focal planes in the
anterior portion of the flame.
When standing on the gallery of this tower, a little
light could be seen in the lowest reflector of the lower
series of the southern lighthouse ; on ascending a
ladder it became more luminous, and as the ascent
was continued, light made its appearance successively
in the second, third, fourth, and fifth reflectors ; and
at the top of the tower the tfth was the most lumi-
nous of all. Thus, in both these instances, the
practical test confirmed the observations made within
the lantern, and showed that the panel of lower
prisms was in the one instance set in such a manner
as to be of great service, and in the other so as to be
useless.
On attempting to rotate the apparatus in the north
tower, it was found that it had become fixed by the
sinking of the whole table on one side, caused, no
doubt, by the optical apparatus pressing with nearly
all its weight on that half of the table.
Mr. Chance undertook to suggest to the Commission
such means as, on full consideration, should appear to
him the most feasible for correcting these errors of
adjustment.
In the evening the Commissioners and others of the Diitinction.
party were received on board the " Irene," and Eedhght,
steamed past the sunken reef, which is marked by the '""^ ^^ *•
two lights being in one, and within which the
northern light shines red. As they advanced towards
the front of the cliff on which the lights stand, they
observed that the northern maintained, except for a
minute or two, a very decided superiority over the
southern light. At a preconcerted signal from the
yacht, the keeper in the northern house covered up
the lenticular portion of his apparatus, when a great
diminution of light was manifest, and the telescope
revealed that whilst copious rays were proceeding
from the upper series of reflectors, a very faint light
was alone visible in the lower series. The steamer
then proceeded to a distance of what was estimated
by the commander to be between four and five miles
from the shore, when the signal was repeated, with
precisely the same results, even when the light was
H
5S
APPEXDTX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Special
Inspections
viewed from the top of the paddle-boxes, a position
neailv equivpl 'rt to the horizon. As the yacht
approached A\ aitl>y, in returning, it was observed
that in the southern light it was only the lowest of
the lower series of reflectors that were giving any
available rays, and that the whole light was cut across
the middle by a dark biind, suggesting the idea of tho
central lenticular zone, throwing no light whatever
upon that part of the sea.
Additional Observations of Dr. Gladstone
on Lights in the English Channel, under
Local Authorities.
August 2. — In company with Captain Close
visited the
206. RAM SG ATE
Vol. 11. 354. Ked Light, which had been seen the previous
Observations bi/ cxening.^ As on the previous visit it was remarked
Dr. Gladstone, that the order and cleanliness almost universal in
lishts belonging to the general Boards were not exhi-
bited here. On the glass of the apparatus were a
great many little spots of paint, which tho keeper
supposed to have come when the room was painted,
a month previously. The keeper at the North Fore-
land subsequently stated that he cleaned the glass of
his lisht with spirits of v>-ine about twice a week.
The illuminating apparatus is of French manufac-
ture, and some pieces of the glass are full of bubbles.
The lamp was lighted, and found to give an external
flame of about an inch in height, and an internal one
of from two to three inches. The sea horizon, as
viewed through the lenses, cut the flame 0*4 inch
above the lamp, which is just at the commencement
of the bright portion, a good adjustment for throwing
the light on to the sea -."but it was far otherwise with
tho reflectors. On looking into the upp'-r series of
prisms it was evident that very nearly all the rays
emanating from the flame were sent by them up into
the skv, and on looking into the lower series all the
rays impinging on tliem appeared to be sent upwards.
Thus the upper reflectors are rendered nearly use-
less, and the lower ones worse than useless, by the
want of proper adjustment, and the efficiency of an
otherwise good lighthouse is much diminished.
Tho green light on the cliff was also visited. It is
intended to be seen in one with the red light to navi-
gate the channel. It is placed on a cliff and on a tall
lamp-post, so that vessels in the harbour can scarcely
obscure it : it is a gas lamp with three jets, and a
reflector behind that seemed to be tolerably bright ;
special provision is made for ventilation ; the green
colour is given by bottle-green glazing ; and a com-
mon gas lamp near at hand was ma-ked towards tho
sea. Thus this light shows intelligence in its arrange-
ment, and forms a great contrast to tlie green gaslight
at Dover.
I Aagnst 17th. — Another green gas lamp was in-
spected at
Vol. II. 24. 192. BRIGHTON.
It stands in a high position at the end of the i)ier.
It has only one jet, and that was found to be leaning
very much over on one side. This is enclosed in a
large gas lamp, with unusually thick broad frame-
work, and thick green glass. The consequence of this
is that the light can be seen only with diflRculty on a
clear night at the distance of a mile, whereas tho
common gas lamps on the pier show brightly at much
greater distances, and in some azimuths ihere is
scarcely any light at all.
Under this light there is a bell, which .'s said to be
lung during a fog, but only between 4 am. and 10 jJ-m.
August 18th. — Tlio two liglits at
Vol. 11.349. 193. NEWIIAVEN
were visited. They stand on the pier, and are in-
tended for leading into tlic harbour when brought into
one. The innermost one was found to be a wooden
tower, containing a very antiquated arrangement for
illumination. It consists of a metallic reservoir for oil
with three holes in the upper part, through which
rise three cotton wicks. There are no lamp glasses, jj^fecis.
or other means of regulating the draft, and no means
of raising or lowering the wicks except by the point
of the scissors. Sperm oil is burnt, which has to be
kept hot in winter. The keeper, an intelligent man
for his station, mentioned that they had once tried
colza oil, but found it unsuited to the lamp, and they
had once contemplated burning gas, but the autho-
rities were deterred by the first outlay of laying a
pipe from the neighbouring town. So the expensive
sperm oil is retained. The lamp smokes so much that
file keeper has to clean the place every other day, and
he has painted it all black, so as to show the soot and
dirt less. Behind the lamp is a segment of a cylinder
covered with long narrow strips of quicksilvered
glass, not curved, but flat. This reflector being of
a primitive character and very old is the worse
for wear. Its position in respect to tho lamp was
improved by the present keeper, but there is nothing
beyond his judgment to determine where it is to be
placed. Above the lamp is a hole with a cowl and
vane over it. In front of the lamp is a window with
a broad piece of framework as a support exactly
op])osite the middle wick, so that the light from this
wick is entirely cut ott'from vessels when in the act of
making the harbour.
The outer light is in a small wooden house on the
pier, which goes on a railway, and is brought into
position at night and shunted out of the way by day.
The description of the internal arrangements of the
inner liglit apply equ.ally in this case, only there are in
addition red jianes of glass in frames which are placed
against the window at certain states of the tide.
The keeper, or his mate, remains at night in a little
pilot house on the pier. They keep the two lights as
clean as can be expected with such lamps.
The tide signals, consisting of flag and balls, and
the tide gauge were also observed.
August 20th. — Another visit was paid to the light at
212. SHOREHAM,
Vol. II. 3.'
prineijially with the view of observing the adjust-
ment of the dioptric apparatus. The establishment
was found as described a year previously but it
was in a very dirty condition. This was due to the
windy weather, which caused the lamp to smoke to Defects.
such an extent that even at the time of the visit,
which was about noon, flakes of soot were falling from
the roof, even on to the dioptric apparatus itself, and
they were trodden into the floor and steps of the light-
hou.se. The keeper complained, reasonably enough,
that there were no lockers or other means of keeping
his cloths, wicks, scissors, &c. apart.
Tho dioptric apparatus was made by M. Le Paute,
and the workmanship is not equal to that of the more
modern ones lately seen. Through the central len-
ticular band the line of the sea horizon was found to
be projected 0'65 inch above the lamp, the image of
the open sea extended thence to a height of 0'9 inch,
and the inner lagoon and entrance to the harbour
stretched from 1 ' 1 inch to £ inches above the metal.
This position seemed to make the most advantageous
use of the flame. The upper reflectors were for the
most part well placed. There were three rings of
lower reflectors The highest was admirably set to
throw the light of the lamp on to the distant .sea, as
was shown by that portion of the landscape being
projected just above the metal of the lamp ; the middle
and lowest brought the image of the sea against the
metal rim itself, so that only the side portions of the
light were ser\'iceable through then).
This dioptric apparatus therefore was better ad-
justed than tlie superior one at Ramsgatc, or than
some of the 1st order which have been seen ; and this
goes far to account for the higli character which the
Shoreham light bears along tho neighbouring coast.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS JIADE BY COJDIIKSfONERS.
59
Aservalioiis hy August 29tli. — An inspection was made of the light
V. Gladstone, at
ol. 11. 404. 213. FOLKESTONE.
It was evening, and the door of the lower at the end
of the pier was open, but no person seemed to be in
charge of the light, so that it was at the mercy of the
public.
The tower is a neat pentagonal wooden edifice, with
five windows at top. Opposite each window is a gas
burner, and what purports to be a reflector. Four of
these burners are bat's wing jets, but so corroded that
they were found burning with flames of various shapes
and sizes, and behind each is a slightly concave
mirror, apparently of brass, but encrusted with oxide
and dirt. The fifth is an Argand burner, but the gas
could only issue from two of the holes, from which
were rising two large separate jets of flame, and
behind this was a small ordinary parabolic reflector,
doubtless silvered, but retaining no trace of polish.
The windows opposite this and the two other burners
which showed seaward were of red glass, that which
showed towards the harbour and town was colourless,
and the remaining one, which was intended for the
sea just outside the opposite pier, was dulled by being
coated with a thin semi-transparent layer of paint.
Over the burners was a bent ventilating apparatus,
but it was rusted through in large holes so as to
defeat its object. The inside of the tower was very
dirty, and the whole arrangements showed want of in-
telligence in the first instance, and neglect afterwards.
On August 3 1st the establishment of Messrs. Sautter
at Avenue Montaigne, Paris, was visited. Tiiere was
little that attracted notice as novel after the visits
paid to the similar works of M. Le Paute and Mr,
Chance. Some beautiful small pieces of dioptric appa-
ratus, similar to those used in lighthouses, but smaller,
were seen. They were intended for ships' lights, and
naturally suggested the idea of how necessary it is to
keep advancing in the brilliancy of lights intended as
permanent signals. In one room there were being
fitted up a revolving light for the African coast, and a
first order apparatus for the Island of Capri, where it
is said there has been no lighthouse since the days of
Tiberius Ctesar.
J. H. Gladstone.
Iseroations hy CAP D'AILLY.
Int. liyUcr. „ , „ _
started tor I'rance on the 3rd of September 1860,
to join the Astronomer Rojal. Our principal object
was to examine carefully the adjustment of the lenses
at Cap d'Ailly, lighthouse, to ascertain how far they
were adjusted to the visible horizon. Landed at Calais,
and from thence by diligence and rail to Dieppe.
As this was the second visit I had paid to this
first-class lighthouse (see Personal Observations p. 40)
it is unnecessary to say more than that we made the
most careful observations of each separate leus, and
of each of the various prisms, the operation occupying
several hours. The result is given in the Astronomer
Royal's letter on the subject (see p. 85) ; and
with the opinions there expressed I entirely con-
cur. The prisms, although on the whole well
adjusted to the horizon, had apparently not been
tested after the frames were erected at the lighthouse,
as was subsequently done at South Whitby, in Octo-
ber, I860, after the defects in that light had been
ascertained ; otherwise that perfect precision of ad-
justment, which, as we saw at Whitby, was quite
attainable, and which was finally accomplished by
Mr. Chance, would have been found at Ailly.
This was not the case ; adjoining prisms varied
from one another, to an amount sufficient to show
that there had been no process of internal adjustment
subsequent to erection.
& page 86. We were detained at Dieppe for two days, and
returned to England on the 7th of September.
Alfred P. Rtdee.
11th October, I860.— Captain Ryder, Mr. Graves,
and Mr. Gladstone met a deputation of the Trinity
House at
H
215, 216. WHITBY Spedal
for the purpose of witnessing the result of certain Inspections,
experiments carried out by Mr. Chance and Professor to-
Faraday at the South Light. Admiral Hamilton and ''"'^^'
the Secretary joined the Commissioners in the evening.
12th October — The Commissioners proceeded to
the lighthouses, and several positions were selected
distant about 500 yards from the lighthouse from
which to view the effect of the changes which had
been made.
In the evening the Commissioners viewed the light Experiments.
from three different positions, panels being brought
in succession opposite to the points of observation.
One position was selected as coinciding with the
direction of the horizon, another above it, and a third
considerably below it.
A very marked difference was observed in the ^>'<'««''-
panels. At the highest position one gave decidedly
less light than the others ; at tlie lowest position the
same panel gave a great deal more ; at the level of the
horizon it was very difficult to discover any difference.
It seemed then to be proved that the light thrown
above the horizon may be advantageously brought
lower, so as to illuminate the sea near the lighthouse
without injuring the efficiency of the light as seen
from the most diistant point of the horizon.
13th October. — The Commissioners again visited Arljustmem.
the light, and witnessed the method pursued by xVlr.
Chance in adjusting some of the prisms.
A pole with a white cross board was fixed at some MeihotI of
distance and graduated, so that a line drawn from internal obser-
tbe centre of each prism to the horizon should cut the ''"'""'•
lower edge of the board. An observer behind the
burner within the apparatus looked over a scale
placed on the burner through the prism to be adjusted
towards the white board, and a workman moved the
portion of the prism with wedges until the white
board was seen in the required direction.
The prisnt which had been cast loose in the brass
frame was then fixed with plaster of Paris, and each
prism in turn was so adjusted. Other panels had
been by the same process adjusted, some to throw the
centre of the beam of light to the geometrical horizon
(that is considerably above the visible horizon), others
to points within the visible horizon.
In the evening the Commission embarkprl oti board
a steamer provided by the Trinity House, and pro-
ceeded to observe the result of the arrangements from
the sea.
The North Light had been left as it was found by Experiment.
the Commission on a former occasion for comparison.
It was tlien pronounced to bo somewhat superior to
the South Light. It was now manifestly inferior
when viewed from a distance of a few miles. From
the greatest distance reached the difference was hardly
perceptible. The difference between the panels
which were brought successively opposite to the
position of the steamer was in like manner hardly
perceptible at the great distance, but well marked
from the nearer position.
The central band of lenses was covered, and the same
series of experiments repeated with the prisms aloue.
The amount of light thrown by these was remark- Seepage 63.
able. It was thought by some of the gentlemen present
that the South Light with the prisms alone was nearly
as brilliant in comparison with the North Light as it
was previous to the alterations with its full power.
Professor Faraday took full notes of all the pro- ■S'ee Professor
ceedings; and it was suggested (hat the Commission P^>'<""'!/'^
would do well to apply to the Elder Brethren for a ^'P"''' P- ^^■
copy of any report which he may make, and for their
sanction to its publication in the Appendix.
Additional Observations of Admiral Ha- Vol. n. 39-f.
milton on Local Lights, East Coast oi observations by
Scotland. Admiral
Hamilton,
217. BODDAM,
(Two miles south of Peterhead, Aberdeenshire.)
Lights of this harbour examined on 6th October
1860. They consist of four lights, red, exhibited
60
APPENDIX TO EEPORT ON LIGHTS, SCOTS, AND BEACONS :
Special
Jnspections.
Vol. II. 3W.
Ireland.
Vol. Il.iXS.
Apparatus,
during the fisTiin?: season. A large fleet of lierrin<r
boats frequent this harbour, to whose crews, as well
as to those of the Peterhead boats, these lights are of
creat service. The lamps are furnished with para-
bolic reflectors eleven inches in diameter. Lamps
and reflectors in excellent order, — a condition due to
the care and attention of James Chivas, who has
charge of the lights. This man is one of the '' occa-
sional keepers " in the employ of the Northern Lights
Commissioners ; and has been six years so employed.
He is occasionally stationed at the adjoining light-
house of Buchan Ness, a light under the Nortlieru
Commissioners, and being on good terms with the
lightkeepers there, he has borrowed some of their
chimney glasses, which are on the French model with
sloping shoulders, and applied them to the Boddam
Harbour lamps ; and the combined results of this
man's acquaintance with his business, and his means
of procuring what he knows to be necessary, are a
set of coloured lights which are reputed to be not
only of the utmost service to the Boddam and Peter-
head boats, but to the passing trade generally.
These red lights are produced by coloured shades
on glass sides in an extra sized street lamp on a
sliding iron pedestal about twelve feet in height.
James Chivas had adjusted the stem of the reflectors
to the focus of the flame by an ingenious and simple
contrivance by means ot cut corks, and the result is
a brilliant light thrown on the narrow and rocky
channels leading to the harbour. The lamps and
reflectors seemed to have been originally fitted with
small consideration as to their relative connection,
whilst their present adjustment seems to illustrate
the necessity of a proper inspection of local lights,
and the advantage of there being properly instructed
persons to take charge of them.
6th October, 1860, 10 p.m.— Revisited
PETERHEAD,
and examined harbour lights on the night of the 6th
October 1860. The lightkeeper, Alex. Machie. had
made good use of his time since his appointment and
my former visit en the 28th September last year ; the
valuable apparatus and reflectors were in much better
order, several arrangements were more complete, and
the lightkeeper evidently desires to do his duty
properly.
October 31st, 1860. — The Secretary, by direction
of the Commission, travelled to Waterford, arriving
on the morning of the 1st.
November 1st. — Observed the buoys in Waterford
Harbour. Two conical buoys, intended to float
upright, were laid on their sides, the others were
clearly visible and showed well, the morning being
foggy. Mr. Graves, and Captain Roberts, of the
Ballast Board, met the Secretary at Waterford, and
it was decided not to visit Mine Head, as the weather
was unfavourable.
November 2d. — Drove to Dungarvon, and thence
to
219. MINE HEAD, No. 240,
to inspect the lighthouse, and to ascertain whether
any means had been adopted by the Ballast Board for
counteracting the evil effects of placing a dioptric
apparatus, constructed to throw a level beam on an
elevated site.
Mr. Halpin, the Superintendent of Lighthouses, met
the Commission at Mine Head.
According to the return of the Ballast Board
(page 294), this light was erected in 1851, and the
apparatus then placed in it is now in use. It is
dioptric, first order, " Made by Wilkins of London,"
and its elevation is 2So feet.
The light was previously visited by members of
the Commission on the 26th September 18.59 (see
page 38). In addition to the observations then made,
it was remarked that the framework on which the
illuminating apparatus stands is of wood, a number
of strong beams placed round the edge of the plat-
form, instead of the single metal pillar or metal frame
which generally supports such apparatus. It was
stated by Mr. Halpin that this was intended to be
temporary, but no change has been made since the
light was placed nine years ago.
The framework appeared to be firm and strong, and
the apparatus level. It was also remarked that there
were no reflectors in the blank space corresponding
to the land. With reference to tiie placing of the
burner in the apparatus, it was remarked that obser-
vations taken from within could be verified by
observations from the shore at points to the east-
ward and westward at greater or less distances, and
a spot was selected from which to view the light
subsequently.
A drawing was then made, full size, showing the
plan of the burner (obtained by pressing a sheet of
paper on it). The size of the flame, and the position of
the horizon of the image formed by the refracting
portion of the apparatus, and the directions in which
the horizon was seen in the catadioptric prisms, both
above and below. It appeared that the flame was
small, produced by three wicks, in a fountain lamp
similar to the lamp, burner, and flame at the Start ;
and that the burner was well placed for the refracting
panels. It seemed that the burner had been raised
so as to counteract the effect of the elevated position
of the light ; but that the upper and lower prisms
had not been adjusted to correspond, and. con-
sequently, that nearly all their light was thrown
above the horizon. Their position was worse than
that of the prisms at Whitby, when they were first
seen by the Astronomer Royal and by the Commis-
sioners. The horizon was seen in the upper prisms in
a direction corresponding nearly with the edge of the
burner nearest to the prism, while in the lower prisms
it was seen in a direction corresponding with the
inner edge of the inner wick, so that the light was
masked.
As the sun neared the horizon the images formed
by the different parts of the apparatus in their respec-
tive foci confirmed these observations. The image
formed by the refracting panels was on the metal
of the burner, and rose as the sun descended. At
the same moment the images formed by the lower
prisms corresponded with the 7iear edge of the burner,
and fell below the edge, and descended as the sun
approached the horizon.
The images formed by the upper prisms met at a
point near the top of the flame, and the rays there
crossed each other, and illuminated a sheet of paper on
the surface of the burner ; but as the sun got lower,
the light approached the edge of the burner, the point
where the image of the horizon is formed.
The sun was obscured by clouds shortly before it
set, so the actual position of the horizon could not be
determined by this test ; but the observation so far
entirely confirmed those previously made in the
manner already' described. (See MTiitht/. North and
Soiitli Foreland. Start, Point of Ayre, &c.)
The Commission, accompanied by the officers of the
Ballast Board,' walked to a rising ground in a field,
distant about three hundred yards from the light-
house, and it ai)peared by eye observations, and
by looking through a telescope, that no light was
showing in the prisms, either above or below. It
appeared to the Superintendent to be otherwise. It
appeared to his vision that, in spite of the observations
made inside, light was seen in all the lower prisms,
and in most of the upper ones also. A liglithouse
keeper was accordingly despatched with orders to cover
up the " central panel." It appeared to the Commis-
sion that tne man had misunderstood the order, and
that he h.ad covered the large central zone only with-
out covering the refracting prisms, for two spots of
light could be seen mth a dark space between ; and
the man and the cloth could be distinguished with the
telesco])e, showing against the sky.
It appeared to be otherwise to the Superintendent,
who still thought that the light seen proceeded from
the ujjper and lower prisms.
Captain Roharts was accordingly requested to pro-
ceed to tlie lighthouse .and see the experiment carried
out. He did so ; and it became evident to all present
Direction of '
beam.
Experiment.
Sunlight.
See drawing!
at the endojt
litis Vol.
Internal obt
vti lions.
External ok
ea tions.
Experime
PEPSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS,
61
iesult.
remeily pro-
\tsed.
'ol. II. '2Xi.
irection of
'luse of defect,
i'evation.
^lemal obser-
I'.ion.
that no light, except a faint reflected light, could be
seen in any of the upper or lower prisms.
In tliis case then there can be no doubt that the
upper and lower prisms are for all practical purposes
almost useless for want of adjustment, for three
methods of observations lead to the same conclusion.
The prisms could either be adjusted by moving
them in Iheir frames, or b}' raising the whole upper
frame till the image of the horizon appears at the
proper place ; if this latter course be followed, it
will be necessary to make some provision for raising
the lower prisms, either by cutting off part of the
lower refracting panel, as was suggested by Mr. Chance
elsewhere, or by some other method ; or the upper
prisms might be raised all together, and the lower
prisms moved in their frames. It would be better to
lower the burner, with reference to the refracting
panels, about an eighth of an inch, for the burner
now intercepts a considerable portion of the light
which should fall on the lower portion of the i-e-
fractors ; but if this be done it will be necessary to
increase the size of the flame materially, for there is
nothing to spare at present.
At all events this light shonld be adjusted as soon
as possible ; and if the lighthouse authorities desire
to carry out experiments such as those tried by the
Trinity House at Whitby, the position is in every
respect peculiarly favourable for the purpose.
A portion of the upper prisms is masked by the
eclipsing shade when open.
220. DUNGARVON.— No. 139.
It was remarked that the light at the entrance to
Dungarvon was seen from the hill at a point consider-
ably higher than Mine Head, probably more than 300
feet above the sea. Il seemed probable that the image
formed by the apparatus was high, and it was decided
to visit the light.
November 3d. — The same party visited the light.
It is called third order, and 52 feet above the level
of the sea, the apparatus being of the same pattern
as that at Mine Head, but without lower prisms,
and smaller. Two wicks only are used, with a
fountain lamp. A drawing was made similar to that
made at Mine Head, and these two show plainly
the effect produced by placing an apparatus con-
structed for one situation in another ; that is to say,
the result of placing a highly scientific instrument,
such as a dioptric apparatus is, without mature con-
sideration of the use to which it is to be put, and with
out giving directions, or information to guide the
manufacturer in its construction. The apparatus at
Mine Head wants adjustment, not because it is ill-
made, but because it is placed 285 feet above the sea.
The apparatus at Dungarvon wants nothing, unless it
be a better flame, not because it is better made, but
because it is placed 230 feet lower.
The horizon was seen in the upper prisms in the
direction of the farthest edge of the burner, instead ol
the nearest, and, consequently, nearly all the light of
the lamp is thrown by the prisms on the sea, and to a
point where vessels pass into the harbour near the
lighthouse.
The horizon of the image formed by the lenticular
zones is high, as was anticipated ; but if the flame is
maintained at the proper height, it is not too higli.
If the flame be allowed to burn low, the lenses might
become of little use ; but the prisms would always
show light so long as the lamp is burning ; and this
apparatus being placed at the elevation for which it
was made, is efficient, as it came from the maker and
without adjustment.
The bars of the lanterns of both these lights are
upright, instead of diagonal, and there are no re-
flectors on the landward side. The lamps in both are
fountain lamps ; one wick is suppressed in each, and
the flames of both lamps were far inferior to flames
seen elsewhere.
The Commission returned to Waterford, and
travelled to Dublin.
November oth. — The Secretarjj visited the office of
H
the Ballast Board, and had an interview -with Special
Mr. Lees their secretary. The object of the interview , Inspections.
was to impress on Mr. Lees the urgent necessity of
furnishing the remainder of the returns without ^''"°■''-^'"""''•
delay.
November 6th. — The Secretary vi.sited
221. BIDSTOXE, near Liverpool, Vol. II. 32G.
to see whether any provision is there made for adjust- ■^"-''^'T""''-
ing the apparatus to correspond with the elevation. A
drawing was made which shows the position of the
image formed by the back of the reflector, from which
it appears that the image of the horizon is very high,
and that if the flame burns low, the light might
become invisible at the horizon. The edges of the
reflectors were found to be set perpendicularly. It
might be well to incline them a little downwards; but
as the seashore is distant some three or four miles,
the adjustment is not so important as it would be if
the lighthouse were placed at the same elevation, and
near the sea. The shape of the chimneys is objection-
able. The reflectors are 35 years old ; and though
some of them might be brighter, they were generally
in much better order than when last seen by the Com-
mission.
The window through which the light shows is
composed of small panes and thick bars, which must
materially interfere with the light. On the whole,
Bidstone compares unfavourably with other lights
under the General Lighthouse Authorities ; not in
that it is badly kept, but in that none of the modern
improvements introduced into lighthouses elsewhere
have been adopted.
It is out of date, but well preserved. The house
was neatly kept ; but in some disorder, in consequence
of the presence of the painters.
VISIT TO BIRMINGHAM.
On 3d and 4th December, Capt. Ryder, Dr. Glad-
stone, and the Secretary, occompanied by the Astro-
nomer Royal, witnessed some experiments at Messrs.
Chance's, near Birmingham. On the 4th they were
joined by Mr. Thomas Stevenson.
The experiments had been instituted by Mr. James
Chance, with a view to applj' to the lenses the same
principle of rigorous adjustment, which had already
been applied with success to the reflecting portions of
the apparatus, and at the same time to determine at
what height above the burner the focus should be
placed. The means of performing the experiments
had been seen and approved by Professor Faraday.
The arrangement was as follows : — Near one end
of a long dark shed was placed a four-wick moderator
lamp, with a good slanting shouldered glass chimney,
and a metallic chimney with damper as in an ordinary
lantern. This lamp could be raised or lowered at will
with great precision. At the proper distance in front
of the lamp was erected a series of lenticular bands,
such as are employed in a first order dioptric appa-
ratus. Before these again were sliding shutters, so
that the light which had traversed any one of these
lenticular bands might be stopped or allowed to pass
beyond. On the wall at the further end of the dark
shed, at a distance of about 36 yards, was a very-
large sheet of paper, which received the light through
the dioptric arrangement. In front of this sheet was
a thin horizontal arm moving along an upright, which
was graduated, with marks answering to the heights
of the centres of the different lenticular bands.
When the lamp was raised to zero on the scale
annexed to it, the top of the burner was precisely on
a level with the centre of the central lenticular band
and with the corresponding mark on the upright
against the sheet of paper. When it was lowered,
say 28 m., it is evident that rays proceeding from
points 28 m., above the burner, and passing through
the centre of the central band, should strike the
paper against the corresponding mark ; and that this
was actually the case, was proved by placing a small
gas-jet at the same mark, and viewing it through the
3
Dr. Gladstone't
minute.
Manufactory 0/
apparatus.
Eiperiti
Flame.
Arrangemetitx.
Apparatus.
External ohser^
vations.
Internal nlis
vations.
62
APPENDIX TO EEPOET ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS:
Special central lens ncross the edge of the apparatus devised
Lispeclious. by Professor Faraday for such purposes when the
Whitby Lights ■were under discussion. It is evident
Professor ^^^^^ ^y^^^ jj-^ when the lamp is in the aforesaid posi-
iti's"rumcnl **°"' *'^'' brightest section of the flame is at the height
of 28 m. above the burner, the brightest portion of
Eipcrimeiit. the light thrown on the paper will coincide with the
mark that corresponded with the centre of the cen-
tral band ; supposing, of course, that any disturbing
rays from the upper or lower bands are cut off by
the sliding shutters. If, however, the brightest sec-
tion of tlie Hame is higher than 28 m., the brightest
portion of the luminous image on the ]iaper will be
below the said mark ; and conversely, if lower in the
flame, higher in the image. But the lamp being sus-
ceptible of elevation or depression, it was easy to move
it till the brightest part of the light fell on the paper
at the central mark. Xor was there any great
difficulty in determining this : simple observation at
a distance, the effect on a secondary shadow thrown
Mr. Stevenson's across the paper, and Mr. Stevenson's photometer, all
jihotomeier. led to the same conclusion, and different observers
agreed in their judgments. By this means the follow-
ing points were determined.
liesuHs. 1st. That as the flame increases, the section of
greatest luminosity rises. With a low flame, but
such as was seen at the Start or Jline Head, the
brightest portion was only 18m. above the burner;
with a better flame it was 20 m. ; and with the best
that was obtained during the experiments it rose to
24 m. This flame presented considerable body, and
might be taken as a very good specimen of what is
found in an Engli-sh 1st order dioptric apparatus, but
was believed to be inferior to what is maintained in
many Scotch lights, and was certainly smaller than
what had been seen by the Commissioners at Calais
and other places in France. It is possible, therefore,
that in these best flames the brightest portion is
really 28 m. above the burner, the height decided on
by Fresnel for the focus of the lens ; but it is beyond
question that where in English lighthouses the focus
has that position, the brightest portion of the light
is ordinarily sent to the sky. Where the dip of the
horizon is not taken into consideration, this error of
adjustment is aggravated, as in the South Whitby
Light, where the focus being 3.5m. above the burner,
must have been above the most luminous part of the
best known flame, supposing such had been burnt
in it.
2nd. That the section of gre,^test luminosity in a
flame of this description is practically confined within
narrow limits. There was no difficulty in determining
it to one millimetre.
Besides tlie amount of oil consumed, the height
to which the several wicks are turned up, the form
of the lamp-glass, and the character of the draught,
must all have their influence on the height of this
section of greatest intensity.
Observations were made on the different upper and
?ower lenticular bands, by means similar to those
already described. It was not so easy to determine
the position of the greatest l)rightness in the images
thrown on the paper by r.ays that traversed these
lenticular segments, as they e.xhibiled the prismatic
colours, but the whitest part, which was about equally
removed from the red and the blue, was assumed as
^ iromaiic g„ch. Tliis chromatic aberration was greater as the
aberration. , • , . , /■ , !■ i
lenticular segment examined was further from the
central band, and it was more apparent in the lower
than in the upper series. The following conclusions
were arrived at : —
1st. Sup])Osing that the foci of the u])per and lower
lenticular bands coinciile with the focus of the central
band, it does not follow that the brightest section of
the flame as regards each of them, also coincides
with the brightest section as regards the central band.
In fact, the brightest section of the flame, as regards
the lowest bands, was found to cut the vertical axis
of tlie flame at a higher ]ioint than had been pre-
viously determined for the central band.
2nd. On account of this, and because when the
section of maximum intensity for the central band is
near the burner (say at 20 m.), a portion of the
light that should fall on the lowest bands is cut oft" by
the burner itself, !Mr. Chance proposes that the foci Proposed
of the lower bands should not be taken at the same roncrfy.
point as the focus of the central band, but that they
should be treated much in the same way as the lower
reflectors are treated, viz., that some point a little
above the burner and in front of the vertical axis of
the flame, should be taken as the point of intersection
of the axis of pencils of rays proceeding to these
lower lenticular bands ; but it is evident that this is
of less importance in a high flame than in a low
flame.
3rd. As the chromatic dispersion of the upper and
lower bands is in the reverse order, that is to say, the
red rays are sent upwards by the upper bands and
downwards by the lower, tvnd the converse holds good
for the blue rays, the two series of bands may be so
adjusted that the chromatic images produced by them
should overlap and neutralize one another, producing
throughout white light, or an approach thereto. This
could be only very partially shown in the actual ex-
periment, as the distance at which the paper was
placed was too short to admit of much overlapping,
4th. Though the colour due to this chromatic
aberration may be thus disposed of, the dispersion
itself must always remain, when lenses of the kind
now ill use are employed, and this may be a matter
worthy of attention when further refinements are
required.
These experiments confirmed the opinion enter- Conrlusim
tained by the Commissioners as to the great import-
ance of keeping up a large consumption of oil, and
therefore a large flame, by showing that when the
flame sinks, not merely is less light actually produced,
but the most luminous section of the flame sinks below
the focus, and is accordingly sent to the sky. Indeed,
before a dioptric apparatus can be properly adjusted,
it must be known what size of flame is meant to be
continuously exhibited.
The man who attended the lamp showed the Com-
missioners the large amount of charring that took place
in the inner wick after only one hour's combustion.
Mr. Stevenson stated that the Scotch keepers will
burn a lamp for 16 hours without in any way trim-
ming the wicks.
An arrangement similar to that described above
was made with a pump lamp and a circular compound
lens. An inverted image of the flame was thrown on
the paper, which became much more definite when
the light proceeding from the central portion was
stopped. No measurements were taken, but the
result appeared to be much the same, as in the pre-
ceding experiment.
Photographs and measurements of the flames expe-
rimented on were taken by the Secretarj\
The Commissioners were also shown in the ivorks
an apparatus just completed for McArthur's Head.
It isofa small order, but is interesting from its includ-
ing two of the aziraulhal condensing arrangements,
by which Mr. Stevenson brings the light of one half
of the circle into two directions which he desires
especially to illuminate.
Under the same roof was also the frame for the 1st
order apparatus to be erected at the Smalls. It had
been designed by the Trinity House, but the
Messrs. Chance, after it w.as made, had to point
out its defects to the Board, and to obtain their
sanction to make large alterations at great cost ; but
even now the Astronomer Koyal doubts whether the
angle pieces of the slanting astragals are strong
enough to withstand the great weight they will have
to bear. The design adopted in the adjoining appa-
ratus for McArthur's Head was thought to bo much
stronger and less obstructive of the light.
The designs for the supplemental lantern and the Electric lit
dioptric apparatus intended lor the electric light at
Dungeness were seen by the Commissioners.
Charring of
rcicL
P/iOtoqraphd
Azimuthal
condensing '
apparatus.
Apparatua
Smalls.
63
SUMMARY OF PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS OE THE COMMISSIONERS
ON THEIR VISITS TO WHITBY LIGHTHOUSES.
The members of the Royal Commission having
concluded their visits of inspection to French, Spanish,
and British Lighthouses, and examined carefully the
system adopted in each country, and having formed
an opinion of what a first class dioptric light should
be, determined to select one or more of thefirst order
dioptric Lighthouses of each of the three General
Lighthouse Authorities in the United Kingdom,
and then to compare them with one another and
with the ideal lighthouse.
The Lighthouses selected were those at —
North Foreland 1 -r^ ,
Whitby j England.
Girdleness — Scotland.
Minehead — Ireland.
The following errors and deficiencies were observed
at Whitby :—
I. Glass Chimney [abrupt shoulders obstruct
light].
II. Metal Uptake [not continuous, di-aught di-
minished].
in. Fountain Lamp [very inefficient, because can
never produce a high flame].
IV. Central Wick [removal of, has diminished
light].
Y. Burner and Lamp [no means of adjusting ;
great difficulty of maintaining foci in right
place].
VI. Lens [error in position of one of them ; por-
tion of light mis-directed and wasted].
VII. Lower Prisms [useless, all light wasted].
VIII. Upper Prisms [some out of adjustment ; largo
portion of light mis-directed and wasted].
IX. Platform [out of level ; light more or less
mis-directed].
X. Adjustment of Lamp Lenses and Prisms [no
attention paid to dip, waste of best light].
XI. Glass [in some prisms streaky, light scattered,
and more or less wasted].
XII. Reflectors in land angle [none in north
lighthouse ; light in land angle wasted ;
reflectors in south lighthouse badly
figured].
Xni. Filter [none ; oil soiled ; flow probably im-
peded, and brightness of flame diminished].
XIV. Distinctive Character of Lights [Two first-
class dioptric lighthouses an unnecessarily
expensive means (if distinction],
XV. Relative Height of the f wo Lights above the
sea [same height above sea ; impossible to
know which light is open when they are
nearly in one, if the weather is thick and
the red light not easily distinguishable
from the white],
XVI. Height of Flame of the Mechanical Lamp
in South Lighthouse [placed there in con-
sequence of the Commissioners' first visit
very insufficiently maintained by the
keeper, consequent inefficiency of light
both to near and distant ships].
XVn. Site [it is questionable whether well se-
lected].
The two first order dioptric lights at Whitby have
lately been erected there within 258 yards of one an-
other. The illuminating apparatus were constructed
by the Messrs. Chance, of Birmingham, in 18.58, and
are situated at a height of 240 feet above the sea.
The Whitby lights were selected by the Royal
Commissioners for inspection and comparison (1),
because they were of the latest construction ; (2),
because the illuminating apparatus was constructed
in England ; (3), because the construction was un-
dertaken by a firm, which has the privilege of
being aided by the mathematical talents of Mr. James
H4
Chance (a High Wrangler of Cambridge") whsoe
presence ensured the recognition of scientific prin-
ciples in their construction ;* (4), because their
height above the sea would enable us to ascertain
whether any, and if any, what adjustment had
been made to allow for the dip. These conside-
rations pointed out the Whitby lights as fit and
proper tests, whether the knowledge of the science of
sea illumination, as exhibited in England by the
Trinity Board in charge of the Lighthouses, aided by
the long experience of Professor Faraday (who, how-
ever, disclaims any special knowledge of optics) and
the acquirements of Mr. James Chance, had made
sufficient progress and kept pace with the strides
made in other cognate sciences. In short, we hoped
to find that, although France might have a much
greater number of 1st class dioptric lights than
England has as yet fitted (owing to her haviug been
saddled with much fewer old fashioned lights than
England had when the lens system was invented), yet
that an English first order dioptric of late construc-
tion would prove to be not only in no way inferior to
the best French lights, but as near perfection as pos-
sible, both as to the flame and as to construction and
adjustment of illuminating apparatus and lamp.
The Whitby lights were therefore exposed to the
severest tests that occurred to us, or were suggested
to us, and we invited to the inspection of them the
Astronomer Royal (who preceded us); Mr. J. Chance,
the constructor, and his foreman, Mr. Masselin ; Pro-
fessor Faraday, the scientific adviser of the Trinity
Board ; Mr. Stevenson, the Scotch Lighthouse en-
gineer ; Mr. Halpin, the engineer of the Ballast
Board ; M. Sauter, a French constructor of light-
house illuminating apparatus ; and the Elder Brethren
of the Trinity Board, who were represented by
Admiral Gordon, Capt. Close, Capt. Baily, Capt.
Nesbitt, &c.
We have little hesitation in stating that all of the '
above-named gentlemen on leaving Whitby would
have admitted, if questioned on the subject, that the
illuminating apparatus in those lighthouses were faulty
in most of the preceding particulars ; and we regret
to say, that we have reason to believe that a French
first order dioptric light is, owing to the greater height
of the flame and to other minor causes, much more
effective than an English first order dioptric light.
I. The Glass Chimney.
The glass chimney was of the usual shape supplied
by the Trinity Board, and was, as stated by Mr. James
Chance, 7iot like the chimney supplied by his firm
to the Whitby light [with the illuminating apparatus],
the shoulder being much too abrupt. We ascertained
that there was a large stock of Mr. Chance's chimneys
[similar to the French chimneys] in the lighthouse ;
* It is due to Mr. James Chance to state, that the orders given
to him are simply to construct a certain well-Iinowu apparatus
(Fresnel's dioptric illuminating apparatus) of a given size. Up
to the time of the commencement of our inquiries, he had not
directed liis mathematical researches into investigations con-
nected with the scientific questions bearing on the subject.
Mr. Chance wap never informed of the height of a proposed
lighthouse ; and that very inferior description of lamp, the
fountain, was ordered of another firm, leaving him no option in
the matter.
It is due to Professor Faraday to state, that he has always dis-
claimed being considered an optician. It is due also to the
Elder Brethren to state, that they make the same disclaimer.
They appear to have placed implicit confidence in Fresnel's
calcidations, and supposed that his adjustments were applicable to
any height of flame, and that there was no necessity for tesiing the
adjustment of prisms and lenses after the illuniinating apparatus
had been erected at the lighthouse, or that the height of the
light above the sea need be taken into account in adjustmg the
position of the lamp.
64
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
J
Trinity Board Chimney.
Chance's anil Freucli Chimney.
Ste Vol I.
102, diagraii
but the Lightliouse keeper thought it to be his duty
to expend all that were left of the old pattern before
he commenced using the chimneys of the more modern
and improved shape.
The shape of the shoulder has, no doubt, an eflect
on the draft ; but whatever may be the difference of
opinion as to the advantage in regard to the draft in
Laving a gradual or an abrupt shoulder, we have
ascertained quite beyond a doubt that an abrupt
shoulder will refract the light irregularly, so that
many rays will, on passing through, be deflected
from the horizontal direction.
Ocular proof of above statement.
Several horizontal dark lines were observed, appa-
rently in the shoulder of the chimney, and coinciding
with that portion of the flame where the image of the
horizon was formed, and from which the horizon was
illuminated ; these dark lines pointed out that rays
were intercepted which would otherwise have gone
to the horizon.
Photometric proof of above statement.
Mr. Stevenson showed us the result of some very
interesting experiments, to ascertain the degree of
intensity of the flame when seen through various
sections of the lens, and we noticed a remarkable
indentation in the curve, probably caused by the
abrupt shoulder in the chimney.
Curve of intensity as ascertained from careful obser-
vations by three observers ascending Salisbury Crags_
Rouo-h sketch of a photographic representation of
^ flame with dark horizontal lines.
Photographic proofs.
(a 1 :SIr. Campbell produced a photographic picture, Seerol.ir.i
of which the above is a rough sketch, of a flame ^ /. f.<,.
seen throu-J-h a glass chimney, with an abrupt shoulder,
by which "the effect of the abrupt shoulder lu pro-
ducin.^ dark opaque lines was clearly shown i<ig. (a).
(b) M. Sauter produced photographic pictures ot
flames seen through the French chimney, m which
the shoulder is very gradual, and no such dark lines
Bppeai'ed.
Mem —Orders, it was understood, were given on
the spot bv the Trinity Board to substitute generally
the gradual shouldered chimneys for those with
abrupt shoulders.
II. Metal Chimney or Uptake.
Hollowed appear-
ance supposed to
be caused by the
abrupt shoulder.
Upper portion of
flame.
In the 1st order lights, the distance from the top
of the glass chimney to the cowl is considerable, pro-
bably 12 feel at least; this space isoccupied by a metal
chimney in two lengths of about 6 ieet each; and the
lower lecgtli is again subdivided.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
65
The openings a b, were suggested some time since
(15 or 16 years) by Professor Faraday, and adopted by
the Trinity Board, to prevent a down draught from the
cowl in windy weather. Under tlie impression tliat the
annular opening at b admitted too mucli air, and
tliereby injured the drauglit and lowered the flame,
we tested the assumption by filling up the annular
space with paper, which had a most remarkable eflTect.
The permanent flame was raised in the North Light-
house, from about 2in. to nearly 3in., and in the South
Lighthouse from H inch to more than 2 inches.
Closing (a) did not have much additional good effect.
The opening (a) mayj^therefore, be left to carry out
Mr. Faraday's remedy for down draught. Tliis expe-
riment showed that there was not sufficient draught,
that a six feet metal chimney or uptake was very
much more effective in producing an upward draught
than the three feet tube ; but it was asserted by
Mr. Faraday that the beneficial effect could not be
maintained unless the oil was supplied more copiously
than at present by the inefficient fountain lamp univer-
sally supplied by the Trinity Board to the 1st order,
dioptric lights.
IIL Fotmlain Lamp.
The fountain lamp universally used in dioptric
lights by the English and Irish Lighthouse Boards
consists of a reservoir of oil slightly raised above
tlie burner. The pressure of the oil, owing to
this difference of level, forces the oil tln-ough and
past the wicks. We observed that the oil over-
flowed very languidly ; and were told that if
the difference of level was increased by raising the
reservoir (the most evident remedy), the vessel that
catches and retains the oil that has overflowed, would
become full so frequently as to inconvenience the
lightkeepers, an argument to which we did not
attach much weight or importance. We caused the
level to be slightly raised, and the increased overflow
had an immediate beneficial effect in raising the
flame ; but this method of keeping a high flame, owing
to the irregularity of the supply of oil, is very inferior
to the overflow lamp. The irregularity arises in the
following manner. If the influx of oil in a fountain
lamp is increased by the attendant, the flame imme-
diately rises, the pipes quickly become hot, the
specific gravity of the oil in the rising branch is
diminished, the influx of oil is increased with great
rapidity, and the flame becomes extravagantly high,
smoky, and uumanageable.
The keeper at St. Catherine's (Isle of Wight),
states, that when the oil is thick, he raises the reser-
voir so as to increase pressure.
equally effective) ; a small alarum is fitted to them in
France, which warns tlie keeper the instant that the
overflow diminishes in rapidity.
A Fountain lamp.
The level of oil in lower reservoirs is maintained I)}-
means of a float, at just the same height as the wick.
The Overflow Lamps used in France and Scotland in
the 1st order lights ; but which for very insufficient
reasons (see letter from Trinity House, 3rd January
1861,) have been discontinued in England, force over
three times as much oil as they consume ; whereas
the fountain lamp as at present constructed forces
over less than is consumed.
The moderator and the triple or quadruple pump
worked by machinery are the two descriptions of
overflow lamps in use in France. (The triple pump
only is used in Scotland, they are said to be
A lariim .
o is a cup with a small liolc in it, balanced by the
weight b ; the cup is periodically filled from the over-
flow ; when full, its weight depresses it, and rino-s a
bell.
If the overflow ceases to pass over with sufficient
quickness to fill the cup, and thus ceases to overcome
the drain through the hole, the cup becomes entirely
empty, and sets off tlie alarum.
It is of great importance that the high rate of
overflow bo steadily maintained, for the draught
being considerable and the flame high, a failure in
the oil supply is attended with the following result.
The oil, instead of being passed over in proportion of
3 to 1 of the oil consumed, a proportion which, by
the coolness of the oil, keeps the metal holder and
wick cool,* and prevents the rapid consumption of
the wick by charring, is passed over in some lower
ratio, the wick becomes charred, smoke is created,
effective flame is first diminished, aud the light at
last either extinguished by the oil or tlie oil becomes
so heated as probably to injure tlie burners when the
flame has burnt the wick down close to the top of
burner. Great watchfulness is therefore necessary
to maintain the high flame (which we observed to be
universally maintainable in France and Scotland in
the overflow lamps. Sec figs. 1 and 2, at end of Vol. I.)
With proper aud constant care, when the overflow
is considerable, the wick need not be trimmed
throughout the night. The fountain lamp in use
in England in 1st order lights, if we may judge
by the Whitby Lights, cannot maintain anything
more than a low flame ; see personal observations
at North Whitby, page 56. (Tlie flame at the South
Light was still lower. This difference was probably
owing to a variety at the Whitby Lights in the size
of the supply tubes or in the draft.) There is an
evident loss of a large portion of the light if a low
flame is substituted for a liigh flame. " This loss
is greater than is due to the mere diminution of
light produced, for if the burner and the illuminating
apparatus have been adjusted to one another for
Fresnel's position of the foci (which had reference
to a very high flame, and wliicli position has always
been given in England, although the flames are
only half the height of Fresnel's) the section of
greatest luminosity falls below the focus for parallel
rays {q) in subjoined diagram, and the strongest
light is therefore sent to the sky. Again, those
Fig- (1)
* The oil in contact with the flame, by its rapid change, is
sufficiently cool to prevent the wick from being charred, bat the
whole of the oil is sufficiently raised in temperature to prevent it
becoming thick in winter. This last is an additional recommen-
dation of the overflow lamp compared with the fountain lamp, as
at present constructed, in which the oil becomes cold and thick
in frosty weather.
66
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BL'OYS, AND UEACONS ;
portions of the flame above the focal line of the lens
(which arc the portions lost when the flame is low),
are of the utmost importance to the illumination of
the sea between the horizon and the base of the
Lighthouse, and of considerable importance to illu-
minating the horizon also.
Let jt. V, tig. ( 1 ) be a full flame ; a. q, h, r, a low flame ;
n,b. c, the focal plane oflens;^, the focus; o, p, the lens;
then, if the flame does not extend alwve a, b, (the focal
plane) it is evident that only half as much focal light
will go to the horizon through the lens as would go
then^il' the flame was sulliciently high to reach above
the shaded triangles. Kays froin all portions of the
vertical section of the high flame above the shaded
triangles will, after passing through the lens be
depressed, and illuminate the sea, showing how
important for the near portions of the sea is a high
flame.
All rays from portions of the flame below the
shaded triangle will, after passing through the lens, go
to the sky. This shows how important it is that the
focal plane of the lens should pass through the flame
at its lowest section of maximum intensity, so that as
few as possible of the brightest rays may be wasted on
the sky. The height of the cen'tre of the section of
maximum intensity was estimated by Fresnel to be
28 mm., or about 1-1 in. above the burner in a 1st class
dioptric. This height was not even approached at
Whitby.
The great importance of a high flame is also
exemplifled when we consider the action of the
upper prisms.
The curvature of the side n, b, fig. (2) is so
calculated* as to send out as parallel rays to horizon
all rays arriving from the focus d (or from wherever
it may have been determined to place that focus) in
the flame. Any diminution in the height of the
flame, as for instance from in to n, will evidently
diminish considerably the number of luminous points
included in those two illuminating triangles, and thus
diminish the light proceeding to the horizon.
In tlie same way any diminution of the height of
the flame will diminish the number of rays sent by
the lower prisms to the horizon, for, as is evident in
fl<T. (3), the upper shaded triangle does not exist as
a^luminous body when the flame is lowered from
m to n. We have in both of the two last figures
shown by the words ski/ and sea, where the rays from
those portions of the flame anterior and posterior to
the focal planes are sent to, if the rays are not inter-
cepted.
It has been stated by Fresnel, and hitherto gene-
rally accepted by makers of illuminating apparatus,
that the focal plane for the lens of a 1st class dioptric
should be about M in. above the burner to ensure
that the focus be in the brightest part of the flame,
but Fresnel in giving this height referred only to the
hio-li flame of a mechanical lamp. A complete series
of experiments is yet wanting to ascertain which
is really the Virightest section of flames of different
licislits as seen from tlie lens and from the upper and
lower [irisnis. When these have been ascertained by
photograph ic and yjliotometi-ic experiments, it is possible
that some slight change may yet have to be made, even
with high flames, in the hitherto received positions of
the foci for the lens and prisms. For a ibuntain lamp
this height should probably not exceed 14 mm. or o in.
Fresnel places the foci for upper prisms in 1st order
lights 28 mm. above burner, and the foci for lower
prisms at points between 38 mm. and 68 mm. above
the burner so as to clear the burner and wick.
Other circumstances of importance must also be
taken into consideration in placing the foci. It is
said to be highly inconvenient to have prisms which
throw out converijinri rays, because among other
matters the practical adjustment of the prisms is
much embarrassed thereby, and it is recommended by
Mr. Chance to endeavour to give the prisms a slight
divergence^ by slightly llattening the curved side of
the prisms.
» Until lately no great attention has been paid to any accuracy
in "ivins; this curvature. M. Saiiter admitted this. At North
Foreland we found the focus of one of his prisms -was II in.
outside the flame, and this owing to tlie en-oncous curvature.
Fig. (2)
Fig. (3)
This would ensure all rays Irom luminous portions
of the flame, after leaving the prism, becoming slightly
divergent. Mr. Chance is still continuing his expe-
riments on this interesting subject.
All these very important questions regarding the
position of the foci depend upon the primary decision
as to the relative importance of sending rays from the
brightest poitiou of the flame to X\m horizon, compared
with illumiiuiting the sea witliin the horizon by an
equal distriljution of the rays through the angle.
t When a prism is found to luive a more than usual amount
of divergence, but vet not sufficient to cause its rejection, it should
be adjusted, Mr. Chance suggests, so that the upper edge of the
divergent beam goes to the horizon, otherwise some of the rjys
vill be -anneces^arily wasted in the slij'-
PERSONAL OBSKRVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
67
(1)
Popular illustrations of the various mithods prac-
tised and proposed of dislriln/liii;/ the rai/s of light
from the lens of a dioptric illumi/iatiri;/ apparatus.
(1.) Present syntom (erroneous), centre of brightest
lienni direeted to geometrical horizon.
(2)
(2) ami (3), optional (but not hitherto intentionally
adopted in dioptric lights in the United Kingdom.)
(2.) Directs centre or upper edge of the brightest
beam to visible horizon, and in so doing necessarilj'
wastes some rays on the sky.
-Voto— In Scotbnd ouinR t.) tin- i-'n.nt liri^lit i.f tho flames it is pro-
bable that the section ui" ^-rcat.'st liiniiiinsit\ 1., ^11 liiL'Ii in the flame as
to correct, in some iiist:nu's, tin- ill i-iri-rts tii.it wi.uid otherwise have
been occasioned by ne;rli'ftinLr tli'- thp; Ijiit thi-^ is only an accidental
correction, audit may be ovcrd 'ue. aoil I he brightest rays be dipped below
the horizon as in (.1).
(3)
(3.) Seeiiiiig lo \\U\y/A' all the rays, tile horizon
•will necessarily be de])rived of the brightest rays,
which will fall within th.e horizon.
W to diau rai id
Tiie daugei aii»e» fiom the gieat exaggeiatiou m
the height of the lighthouse and the size of the
illuminated angle, which tends to bias the reader in
favour of (3), whereas if the sketches were truly
drawn to scale, the angle reduced to 6°, and the
light'.s height above the sea reduced to its propor-
tionate altitude, the merits of (2) would become more
evident, and those of (3) less evident.
If ])aramount importance is attached to sending to
the horizon the brightest rays that pass through the
lens, ravs from the lower portions of the flame as
the beam is inverted must lie wasted and sent above
the horizon. If paramount importance is attached to
utilizing all the rays, very few rays need be wasted,
and yet, after mature consideration, the opinion will
probably be unanimous,^ that notwithstanding the
waste of rays it is better, in the great majority
of cases, whatever the loss, to ensure that the hori •
zon shall receive the brightest rays. It must never
be forgotten that one great use of Lighthouses is to
passing ships who deviate perhaps, considerably from
their course to sight the Light (made out perhaps
30 miles oil' from the mast head) and then imme-
diatel)' resume their course. Any diminution in the
brightness of the ray sent to the horizon would be a
serious injury to such vessels.
The great and iucreased importance of maintaining
a high flame in thick weather is probably not
sufficiently understood by lighthouse keepers, and
should be impressed upon them. A high flame
requires constant watchful care, and can only be
maintained by an increased expenditure of oil. This
accounts for the great disjiarity in the expenditure of
oil in 1st order lights in England and Ireland when
compared with the expenditure in French and Scotch
lights.
The Scotch and French Lighthouse Authorities g^ y^
insist on the maintenance of a high flame, and insist piq. 2.
on the consumption of that amount of oil which they
know Ijy experiment is necessary to maintain a high
flame. Their consumption is nearly 70 per cent, larger
than the consumption in an English or Irish 1st order
light under the Trinity House. This very important
subject requires evideutl}' to be studied with much
greater attention in the English and Irish first order
lights, all of which ought to be supplied immediately
with mechanical lamps, and a certain maximum con-
sumption per hour should be insisted upon.
Since our last visit to Whitby, on which occasion
we found that the mechanical lamp had been, in con-
sequence of our first visit, substituted at the South
Lighthouse for the fountain lamp, the North retaining
the tbuntain, we have obtained two returns, one,
the observations of passing mariners, and another a
return from the Trinity House, giving the daily con-
sumption of oil at both Lighthouses for many weeks.
To our great surprise we found that the mariners
gave a much slighter preference to the South Light
over the Xorth than had been expected considering
that with a mechanical lamp the flame can be main-
tained at a much greater height, although at a consi-
derably iucreased consumption of oil. Our surprise at
this disappointing evidence ceased when we found, on
reference to the Trinity House return of consumption
of oil, that the keeper in charge of the South Light
had, either through ignorance or intentionally, con-
stantly consumed onh' the same amount of oil in his
new mechanical lamp as the keeper in charge of the
North Light in his old fountain lamp ; the average
consumption per year will, unless some change is
made, remain, therefore at the South Whitby not more
than 400 gallons instead of more than 700, which is
consumed in Scotland and France, and the flame
remain as low and therefore as ineffective as before.
We found that the Elder Brethren had apparently taken
no notice whatever of this ignorance or neglect on
the part of the keepers at the South Whitby, and we
can now understand what had hitherto puzzled us,
viz., why the mechanical lamps were condemned by
the Elder Brethren many years since. There can lie
no doubt that a mechanical lamp is an expensive,
troublesome, complicated instrument if it is used, as at
the South Whitby Light, for the purpose of consuming
only a small amount of oil, (one gallon in seven or eight
hours, ) and creating a flame of about two inches, which
can be effected just as well by the common fountain
lamp; while it is an invaluable and (for the benefit
conferred) an economical instrument if its powers
are properly developed, to consume one gallon in less
than five hours, and create a flame of from three to
four inches.
IV. Central Wick.
The next point to be remarked ou is the
absence of the fourth or central ivick. The French
always have a fourth wick in their first order lights,
and at the North Foreland and South Whitby the
Trinity Board have just readopted them with the
mechanical lamp. If rays only originated from the
outer surface of a flame, and did not pass through
the flame, it might at first sight appear unnecessary to
pay any attention to the central portions of the flame,
but it is well known that the pencil of light passing
from a flame in any given direction varies in intensity
I 2
6S
APPENDIX TO REP'iRT OX LIGHTS, BUcJYS, AND BE^VCONS :
with the depth of the luminous section or portion of
the flame i'rom whence it has emanated. The ex-
ternal flames, like otlier flames, are tninsparent, and
the light from the central wick ]iat->inir tlirough them
senr^ibly increases the quantity of etfective liglit. The
omission of the central wick enfeebles, so to speak, the
central portions of all these sections, and reduces the
amount of light proceeding in all directions.
V. Burner and Lamp.
There was no meaus of adjusting the height of
the lamp burner, or of correcting any lateral error.
The Inirner at the is'orth Liglithouse was -j^jth of an
inch out laterally, and also vertically as regards the
geometrical horizon. It might be advisable to
instruct the light keeper how to adjust the position
of the lamp burner as is done in France, and the
lamps ought to be fitted with the meaus of ready
adjustment, small screws should be placed in the
framework (as in Mr. Chance's), from which, when
two lines are stretched across, their intersection
should cover the centre of the burner ; the keepers
should test this occasionally, and report any error,
and should be exercised, when inspected, in shifting
lamps. In France the mechanical lamps are replaced
by the spare lamps every three weeks, to ensure the
pumps being kept in good working order.
VI. Lenses.
In the southernmost lens in the North Light the
focus of divergenc}', the rays from which, when col-
lected by the lens would pass to the horizon, was
about half an inch higher in the flame than the other
lenses. As the flame was at its best very low, this lens
was proljalily of very little service. Mr. Masselin could
not account for this. It arose, he thouglit, either
from the curvature being faulty or the glass having
a different refractive power ; but M. Sauter suggested
another reason, viz., that the workmen who ground
the edges of the lens had taken too much ofl'one edge,
and in securing the lens in the frame had misplaced it.
The error was so evident, that Mr. Masselin, Mr.
Chance's foreman, was asked how it was that it had not
attracted his attention when he was erecting it al
Whitby ? He stated that although he had expressed
a wish that the lanterns should be first finished, his
wish was disregarded, and he was obliged to erect the
illuminating apparatus while the lantern w.as being
built, both operations being carried on under a cover,
which prevented the horizon from being visible, other-
wise he would have detected the erroneous lens.
VII. Lower Prisms.
The T^ower Prisms sent all their rays to the
sky, 7ione to the horizon or sea. — This most extra-
ordinary fact was detected in the first place by the
Astronomer Royal, and its truth was confirmed by all
ot us ; the only prisms that sent their rays even
to the geometrical horizon level were those of one
section of the prisms of the North Light, occupying
only a very small portion of the circumference, and
they could only be seen from the direction of the
South Light.
Mr. Chance states that this error has arisen from
his having in these Lighthouses attempted strictly to
carry out Fresnel's rule as to the height of the foci
for the lower prisms, a rule which he now finds to be
in considerable error in first order lights, although
correct for the third order.
Tiiere is no doubt that there are 1st class dioptric
Lighthouses that send rays to the sea through their
lower prisms — Girdleuess for instance iit Scotland —
specially examined and tested by the Astronomer
Iloyal to ascertain this, and also all the Lighthouses
we inspected in France. Mr. Cliance assumes that this
may be accounted for by their having been practically
adjusted (without any reference to Fresnel's rule),
by so fixing the lenses and prisms that the optical
image of the horizon formed bj' each falls upon the
brightest part of the flame. Mr. Chance now, since
his attention has been drawn to it, practically adjusts
all the lenses and prisms, irrespective of Fresnel's rule.
It is evident liiat all first order Lights, and in
fact all dioptric Lights hitherto erected in the L^nited
Kingdom should, as early as possible, be visited by
competent persons, and the fact of the well or ill
adjustment of all their lenses and prisms be ascer-
tained, and any errors found corrected. The Astro-
nomer Royal estimates that this could be effected in
about two years if one person only was employed.
The Trinity yacht conveyed the Royal Commis-
sioners at night to a distance of from four to five
miles from the Whitby Lights, when, by a precon-
certed signal, the central lenses of the North Light
were covered, and it was then satisfactorily shown
to the Elder Brethren hj the aid of telescopes that
there was no light in the lower prisms.
No light came through the lower prisms of the
South Light, either.*
[The lower prisms at the South 'Wliitby have now
been adjusted, a verj' slight change in the position of the
prisms was sufficient to efl'ect this important object.]
A^II. Upper Prisms.
T7te Upper Prisms icere sensibly out of adjustment.
Mr. Chance's foreman, when seeking for the horizon
in these upper prisms, by the method suggested by
Mr. Campbell, our Secretary, detected some errors
of adjustment in them. These jn-isms have since
been readjusted.
IN. Platform.
The Platform or Table was out of Level. The
illuminating apparatus has hitherto been placed on
one central iron support — this may in course of time
settle or give, which would throw out the action of
the illuminating apparatus very considerably. At
Gidleness the platform is supported at its circum-
ference by a series of inclined or zigzag roads ; this
method of support appears greatly preferable to tliat
by central columns. The maintenance of correct
levels should be ascertained from tinie to time by
means of a spirit leveL
X. Adjustment of Lenses and Prisms for the height
of Light abore the sea.
As, owing to the curvature of the earth the visible
horizon is below the geometrical horizon, the rays
intended for the visible horizon ought to be dipped
througli that angle — this angle will increase with
the height of the Lighthouse, d is the geometrical
and c the visible horizon, and d, a, c, is the angle of
dip.
Now that the glass can be made very clear, free
from veins, and therefore non-divergent, and great
• During the day, on looking at the South Lights, lighted for
the purpose, from the gallery of the North Lieht, also from a
•window at its hase, no light could be seen in lower prisms,
it was only seen from the top of the lantern of the Korth
Light, considerably above the horizontal direction.
PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS MADE BY COMMISSIONERS.
69
DiaTam showing approximately the efFect produced on the light transmitted through the lens of a first
class dioptric light by neglecting the dip.
N.B. The size of the angle is exaggerated to make the eftect more evident.
accuracy can be attained in the shape of the prisms
and lenses by the cross-action in polishing them,
this angle of dip cannot be ignored without unnecef^-
sarily sending a considerable amount of light to the
sky ; and the higher the Lighthouse the more light
is Avasted in that direction. The necessity of taking
the dip into consideration is increased, if at one and
the same time, as in England and Ireland, the burner
has been placed with regard to the focus of the
lens in the position pointed out by Fresnel (viz.:
for 1st order dioptric 28 mm. or l-l in. below the
focus), and the flame is, or may be expected
to be, lower than the high flames created in Scot-
land and France. The section of intensest lumi-
nosity is only that height, (1 • 1 in., above the
burner) in very high flames, and is much nearer the
burner in low flames, such as those produced in
England and Ireland by the fountain lamp.
The burner appears to have been placed originally
at the above distance below the focus in England and
Ireland, whatever may be the height of the light
above the sea, and notwithstanding the use of the
fountain lamp. The horizon, therefore, in such case
takes the larger portion of the light that reaches it
through the lens from sections having their inter-
section higher in the flame than the focus for
parallel rays by a distance due to the dip ; and as
the flame is low by the inefficiency of the lamp,
the section of intensest luminosity is (owing to the
latter fact) still further separated from and dropped
below the portion of the flame sending light to the
horizon, therefore the necessity of taking the dip into
consideration is magnified when the focus is at 1 • 1 in.
above the burner, and the flame is low. Thus, for a
lighthouse 240 feet high, at which the dip of the
horizon is 16', the focal point corresponding to the
sea horizon is higher than that corresponding to the
geometrical horizon by 0-16 in., and if the focal point
for the geometrical horizon is l-I in. above the burner,
the focal points for the sea horizon will be 1-26 in.
above the burner. At this height, even with the best
French lights, the intensity of the light is sensibly
diminished, unless the flame is at its best, and with the
English lamps it is in some cases neai'ly lost. It is very
easy to adjust the lenses and prisms in their frames in
the workshop, to throw the most brilliant rays towards
the visible horizon*, provided an experimental range
can be obtained. Mr. Chance has now a considerable
range, and a vertical board on which a line repre-
senting the visible horizon for each prism and lens
is marked ; a ladder is placed against the board, and
* The plan jiroposed in 2ur. Sievensou's work, viz., to cant
or tilt the lens, is erroneous, as tilting the lenses only distorts
the image ; it does not move it in altitude.
Even if tilting had the stated effect, it -n-onld be veiy nnad-
visable to give the keepers power to tilt the lenses.
the eye is placed in the proper position when any
lens or prism is being adjusted. It is by no means
an easy operation, except for a person accurately
acquainted with optical science, to readjust the prisms
after they have been erected in the Lighthouse, and
it should not be attempted, except by an optical
engineer, for this evident reason that raising or lower-
ing the lamp has opposite effects in the lens and in
the prisms, and every prism must be moved. This
was effected at the South Whitby under Mr. Chance's
personal superintendence.
But it may be asked what injury would have been
done (1), to the illumination of the horizon, and (2),
to the ilhimination of the sea by neglecting the dip,
as has been done in the United Kingdom and France,
if the flame is maintained at its proper height, as
it is in Scotland and France by the use of the mecha-
nical lamp ; and this question has a direct practical
bearing on the case. The readjustment of all the prisms
is a serious matter. Take this case, viz. a light 240 feet
above the sea, as at Whitby, (an unusual height in the
United Kingdom , where atmospheric difficulties un-
known in the Mediterranean interfere to prevent the
selection of great heights), and let us suppose that
the lamp there used had been the mechanical, and the
flame the proper height. At the height of 240 feet the
horizon is 16 miles distant. The flame of a mechanical
lamp 4 inches high, gives a divergence of 6°.
First, the Lens. — The beam passed through the
lens is inverted. Its brightest portion occupies
about say 1° of the angle, the remainder being
divided in the following manner, see diagram, the
lower edge of the divergent beam will, in such a case,
if the angle is 6°, and the height of the light above
the sea 240 feet, strike the sea at 1090 j'ards dis-
tance from the base of the Lighthouse (within that
distance no direct rays will reach the hull of a vessel
through the lens). The dip due to the height of 240
feet is 16'. If the brightest beam derived from the
section of intensest luminosity has a divergence of more
than 32', without any sensible decrease of intensity,
then the horizon wiU be illuminated by rays from the
brightest portion of the flame, and will not, as far as
the lens is concerned, have suffered by the light not
having been dipped ; but even supposing that owing
to the equable intensity of luminosity extending over
a portion of the flame sufficient in size {\ of an inch) to
enable the horizon to be lighted from the brightest part
of the flame though the light has not been dipped, it
is evident that the sea within the horizon must soon
begin to suffer, for there can be no doubt that the
upper portion and not the loxver of the beam of
greatest intensity should be directed to the horizon,
as in the former case the remainder of the section of
greatest luminosity will illuminate the sea instead of (as
in the case of the light being undipped) going to the
3
ro
APPENDIX TO UEPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
sky. It is the sea then, rather than the horizon, that
is most injured (as far as the lens is concerned)
by neglecting the dip. At first sight we arc
inclined to suppose that neglecting the dip may be
very injurious to the very near ships, but wlien a cal-
culation is made (see table, p. 101), it is readUy seen
that dipping, in the above case, through the angle of
IC will Old}- light up an additional narrow strip of
the sea, about 130 yards broad.
To sum up, therefore, the effect of not dipping n<
far as the le/is is concerned, when tlie mechanical
lamp is in use, and thejiamc is of the proper height, the
effect is — {I) perhaps to slightly injure the illumina-
tion of the horizon ; (2) certainly to injure ma-
terially the illumination of the sea within the horizon:
and (3), to exclude from direct rays a very narrow
strip of sea near the lighthouse.
Cpper Prisms. — Neglecting the dip is a maladjust-
ment of the prisms, and has this effect, that the light
■which reaches the horizon is taken from a more
advanced section of the flame, reducing thereby the
size of the portion of the flame which illjininates the
sea, diminishing therefore the total light sent to the
sea through each prism, and probably transferring the
position of the focus for parallel rays I'or each i>rism
to a less bright section of the flame.
N.B. If the lamp, supposed to be a mechanical
lamp with a high flame, is raised to dip the rays
passing through the lens from the brightest section
to the visible horizon, then the original error in the
adjustment of the upper prisms is doubled, and great
care wiU be requisite in deciding upon how far it
is safe to raise the lamp. At Girdleness, Professor
Airv, for this reason, recommended that the lamp
should only be raised through half the angle of dip.
Li England and Ireland, until the mechanical lamp is
substituted for the fountain, another element of dis-
turbance enters into the question, and no imperfect
adjustment should be attem])ted.
Lower Prisms. — So small in altitude is the portion
of the flame which the interposition of the edge of the
burner allows to send rays to the lower prisms, and
so narrow therefore the emitted beam and so small the
divergence, that a neglect of the dip will very pos-
sibly deprive the horizon and the sea of any rays
from the lower prisms, as we found to be the case at
the Wliitby lights, where the lower prisms sent all
the rays that passed through them to the sky.
!N.B. As the portion of the flame which will send
rays below the horizon to the sea, is that portion be-
tween the direction of the axis of parallel rays and
the edge of the burner, any attempt to raise the lamp, in
order to dip the brightest rays tlirough the lens, unless
the lower prism? are also readjusted, will probably
bring the axis of parallel rays into the burner, and
then immediately the lower prisms will cease to illu-
minate either the sea, or tlie horizon, even if the
latter had previously received some lew rays.
It is right to state here that rays from the sides of
the flames may still be eftective.
Neglecting the dip, therefore, when the flame is
high, unless the height of the light above the sea is
considerable, docs possibly no great harm to the efiect
of the lens at the horizon, but it diminishes the light
sent through the lens to the sea, and it lessens the
amount of light sent both to the horizon and the sea
I'rom the ripper prisms, and lessens if it does not
entirely prevent the transmission of any light to the
sea, and perhaps also to the horizon through the lower
prisms.
In the case of the electric light, where the
dimension of the luminous body is only about \ of
an inch, and the divergence is therefore very small,
it is of th'.' last importance that the rays should be
accurately ilipped and directed. In the case of tlie
oil lamp with a flame of 4 ///., and a divergence of 6°
for reasons slated above, the question is comparatively
of less importance, provided always that a proper
flame is mainiainvd, but as tluix' is no difficulty in
adjusting the lenses and ])risms for the given height,
it should never be neglected, as careless keepers may
neglect to keep a high flame. Very careful experi-
ments to measure the intensity of diflerent .sections as
ecen from lenses and prisms should be made.
XI. Crlass.
We noticed that the glass of some of the prisms
at Whitby was streaky and wavy. Since that glass
was cast Mr. Chance informs us he has efl'ected a
great improvement, by melting the glass in covered
pots. Some glass since produced is quite free of
streaks, and of a very good colour.
XII. Reflectors in Land Angle.
In the North AVhitby Light there were no cat-
optric reflectors on the land side of the illuminating
apparatus. There were reflectors in the South Lights
(but they were badly flgured). This would atford a
good opportunity of testing the value of the catoptric
reflector. In its absence, about \ of the light, viz. that
in the land angle, is entirely lost and wasted.
XIII. Filter for Oil.
The oil is not filtered in the English Light-
houses. The filtration of the oil in the French
Lighthouses is part of their judicious treatment
of the science of illumination ; the greatest care
being taken to measure the quantity consumed in
every hour, or during each watch or guard ; and the
great and natural anxiety of the keepers to maintain
a perfect flame, precludes the possibility of the un-
cousumedoil that remains in the lamp in the morning,
partly soiled and injured by its contact with the
flame, being allowed to Ibrm ])art of the oil at the
commencement of the next night : it is therefore
carefully removed, but before being returned to the
general reservoir it is necessarily carefully filtered.
Filters should be introduced in all our Lighthouses.
Xr\'. Distinctive Character of Lights.
The Whitby Lighthouses are both of the first order,
and therefore of the most expensive character. They
cost, when completed, 5,256/., and they will, with
high flames, cost for maintenance about 800/. per
annum. 800/. per annum at 4 per cent, represents
a capital sum of 32,000/.. which added to the primary
cost, viz.. 5.256/.. makes the total cost of the Light-
houses 37,000/. If the second Lighthouse is unneces-
sary, and sufficient distinction could have been given
to one Lighthouse the large sum of 18,500/. has been
wasted. The direction of the rock is sufficiently
pointed out by the red cut oft".
XV. Relative Height of the tico Lights above the Sea.
The Lights ha^e been placed so as to point out the
line of direction of a danger oft' the harl)Our. That
two Lights, if intended lo be used as a leading mark
to clear a danger, should be of unequal height, one
being higher than the other by a number of feet de-
pending upon the distance of the danger and the hori-
zon, it might have been thought, an axionnitic truth
in Lighthouse engineering, and, if to gain this object,
it had been found advisable to ha\e the buildings much
closer together, economy in various ways would have
been studied. The reason why such Lighthouses
should be of unequal heights is. that when of the same
height ;^as at Inishowen) i; is impossible to know
when they are slightly open, whether it is the nearest
or the most distant that is to the riglit or left, a very
important point in intricate navigation. At Whitbv,
the light in tlie north Lighthouse turns to red when
the lights are in one, but in some states of the atmo-
sphere it is difficult to distinguish white from red.
XVI. Height of flame of the mceha7iical lamp in
the South Lighthouse.
On our second visit we found a mechanical lamp at
work in South Lighthouse, and all the up))er and
lower prisms readjusted. Various experiments were
tried (see Mr. Faraday's report), but it is necessary to
observe that the exi)erinients cannot do justice to the
mechanical lam)i, for, as exhibited in the South Light-
house on that occasion and since, it did little credit to
the i)rinciple.
The Lighthouse keepers were inexperienced, could
onlv succeed in burning one gallon in six or seven hours,
instead of in less than five, as in Scotland, or as in
France ; and on the night of the sea ex))eriments,
when we were disappointed at tlie South Light not
INVESTIGATIONS PROPOSED BY DR. GLADSTONE.
7J
showing to fjroater advantage, it was ascertained from
Mr. Chance tliat the nature of the programme
(which, instead of heing entirely a time programme,
as was suggested, involved constant looking out for
the ship's signals, and therefore frequent opening and
shutting of the gallery door,) injured the draft,
and therefore the flame, which was not improved l>y
the presence of additional keepers in the lantern.
Mr. Chance stated that he had to change the chimney
twice because it got smoky ; to trim once, and that he
observed the flame was (strange to say) brightest
when the overflow was least, all proving that the
flame was in anything but a satisfactory state.
The necessity of maintaining alwa3-s •i.high flame ai
4 in. must necessitate constant watch and guard on the
part of the keepers, and this again frequent visits on
the part of inspectors. In France the inspectors have
a master key, so that they can ^ isit at unexpected
moments. Commanders and Lieutenants of Coast
Guard are perhaps the persons in the United King-
dom who could most satisfactorily perform this duty.
It would only be necessary for them without any
warning to enter the Lighthouses, measure the height
of the flame, and report it next morning, with any re-
markson thewatchfulness,orotherwise. of the keepers.
They should not have the power of interfering in any
other manner, or of giving any orders or instructions.
XVII. .S'iVe.—Owing to the height (240 feet) of the
lights above the sea, they are frequently obscured by
clouds. It admits of considerable doubt whether one
lighthouse about 120 feet in height on an outlaying
rock would not have been more efficient and less
expensive in the long run.
It will Vie seen by reference to tlie .\stronomer Eoval's Report on his
visit to Whilb.v that he estimated the waste of tlie small quantity even
oflight that was atlorded by the old fountain lumps then in use as very
considerable, owing: to the various errors he alludes to. leaving only a
small portion of the light, estimated by him as one tenth really useful.
Now that a mcch.anical lamp has been placed at the South Whitby
Lii^thouse, and all the lenses and prisms have been carefully readjusted
by Mr. Chance, the lisht and brilliancy ought to have increased most
considerably ; but this desirable result awaits the proper raauageiuent
of the lamp and, an increased consumption of oil.
The above remarks on the errors and deficiencies at Whitby have
been submitted to the Astronomer Royal, the Commissioners beinff
most anxious neither to overstate the number of errors nor to attach
too much importance to any one of them.
Professor Airy after carefully considering them, has
been pleased to state that " lie believes the above
statements as to the errors and deficiencies at Whitby
to be perfectly accurate."
INVESTIGATIONS PROPOSED BY DR. GLADSTONE.
Production of Light.
\. The relative light-producing power of different
oils and hydrocarbons, both liquid and gaseous, such
as colza oil, olive oil, seal oil, porpoise oil, benzine,
paraffine, belmontine, camphine, coal gas, oil gas, gas
saturated with vapour of naphtha, in reference to the
quantity burnt. Each of the combustibles must be
burnt to the greatest advantage, and hence may re-
quire a particular kind of lamp.
This was done in reference to sperm and colza oil
before the change was made by the Trinity House.
2. The relative light-producing power of the lime
light as produced by hydrogen and oxygen, or by
coal gas and oxygen, and with various forms of
apparatus ; also with caustic lime and various com-
pounds of lime ; and, indeed, with the substitution
of magnesia, alumina, or other earths in place of lime.
These should be referred to some standard by which
they may be compared with the combustibles men-
tioned in the previous paragraph.
3. Analogous experiments with electric lights.
Different forms of galvanic battery, or electro-mag-
netic machine, different kinds of charcoal points or
other material to become luminous, different forms of
regulator, &c., must be considered.
4. As the power of penetrating a mist is not always
directly proportional to the amount of light emitted
through a clear atmosphere, the above experiments
ought to be repeated in a mist.
5. The relative advantages and disadv.antagos of
these several combustibles and means of producing
light in regard to expense, tendency to smoke, effect
of temperature, effect of irregular draughts, liability
to explosion or other accidents, portability, room
required for machinery, &c.
Utilization of Liglit.
6. The amount of light lost in reflection from
polished silver, copper, glass coated with mercury,
glass covered with silver by Petitjean's process, by
Liebig's process, &c. This must be determined for
various angles.
Professor Potter has made some experiments with
reference to this question.
7. The amount of light lost in transmission through
glass of various composition. This is a composite
phenomenon, depending partly on absorption, which
will differ with the thickness of the glass, and partly
on reflection from each surface, which will difler -with
the angle at which the ray enters the glass, and the
angle at which it emerges from it. All these cir-
cumstances must be considered.
Professor Potter has also made some experiments
in this direction.
8. How far the above results depend on the in-
tensity or character of the light itself.
I 4
9. Whether polarized light, such as must be pro-
duced where light passes through glass surfaces at
high angles, is as capable of penetrating a m.Ut as
unpolarized light is.
10. The relative value of difl^erent parts of the
flame to dift'erent pieces of optical apparatus.
This was attempted in a previous paper of mine, at
least as far as the ordinary dioptric arrangement for
a fixed light is concerned. (See p. 73.)
11. Whether a flame is perfectly transparent to
its own rays.
Count Rumford determined that it is ; but the fact
recently recognized, that certain flames absorb light
of the same refrangibility as they emit, would indicate
that more minute experiments might show that it is
not perfectly transparent.
12. The relative luminosity of different sections of
a flame taken horizontally and diagonally at various
angles. Flames of all the different sizes and characters
actually used in lighthouses should be examined.
This experiment it is proposed by the Commission
to perform, at least as far as regards a 1st order lamp.*
When all these questions are determined, it wiU
probably be simply a matter of calcidation to deter-
mine the five following points : —
13. The relative merits of parabolic metallic re-
flectors, and optical apparatus made of glass alone.
Various computations have been already given by
!Mr. Fresnel, Professor Potter, Mr. Alan Stevenson,
and others, but more eomjilete data are desiderated.
14. The angular limits in the vertical plane, within
which it is desirable to employ .a lenticular arrange-
ment ; and where a system of totally reflecting prisms
becomes more serviceable.
1 5. The most advantageous form for the totally re-
flecting prisms.
It is possible that, as suggested by Mr. Campbell,
if the surface by which thft ray enters and that by
which it emerges were at right angles to it, it might
cause a saving of light, notwithstanding the longer space
of glass which the ray would then have to traverse.
16. The most advantageous position for each
separate piece of optical apparatus.
The Commission have already given this matter
much consideration, but the data do not yet exist for
a complete determination.
1 7'. Through how large an angle in the vertical
plane the divergent beam proceeding towards the
horizon from a given lamp-flame, and with a given
optical arrangement, may be considered practically
uniform in luminosity
18. The influence of different forms of the shoulder
of the lamp glass on the direction of the emitted rays.
* As Messrs. Chance performed experiments with this object,
■which were subsequently inspected by the Commission, (see p. G 1 ,)
they considered it unnecessary to carry out thvir previous intention.
ArPENDIX TO EEPOKT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
19. What kinds of glass are least affected by
weather or siuklen changes of temperature.
20. The influence of different forms of lamp glass
on tho draught. Lamp glasses may and do differ in
having the shoulder at different heights, shoulders of
different forms, or no shoulder at all, and in having
cylinders uniform in width, tapering, or trumpet-
shaped, and in their Tvidth and height ; or they may
be globular, pear-shaped, &c.
21. The influence of other parts of the apparatus
on the draught, viz., the continuous metallic chimney,
which may be wider or narrower, longer or shorter,
straight or bent, uniform or otherwise in width, &c. ;
the wick holders, which may be thicker or thinner,
more or less wide apart, &c., the central button or
open space, &c..
22. The best means of preventing irregularities in
the supply of air, and in the rapid removal of the
products of combustion during gusty weather.
23. The amount of overflow of oil, which is con-
ducive to the burning of the largest quantity of the
said oil in a given lamp.
24. The most simple and trustworthy means of
producing this overflow with regularity.
The French appear to have experimented much on
this and the previous question.
25. How to secure the requisite strength in the
astragals or other framework of the optical apparatus
and lantern with the least possible interference with
the light.
26. The amount of heat rays reflected back by
mirrors of various kinds. This need be considered
only when the rays strike the mirror at right angles
to its surface.
27. How far a flashing light has the advantage in
catching the eye of an observer at a great distance,
irrespective of its intensity. As this is a subjective
phenomenon it will differ with different observers.
Some experiments now in progress by Professor
Swan which bear on this subject are alluded to in
Sir J. Herschel's evidence (see Vol. II, page 595).
Colour.
28. The relative space-penetrating power, either
through a clear or a misty atmosphere of rays of dif-
ferent refrangibility, and consequently different colour.
Sir D. Brewster's observations, and mine, on the
Beachy Head Light (and elsewhere) have to a great
extent determined this. Messrs. Eeynaud and
Degrand have also published a paper on the power
of the red ray to penetrate to great distances.
29. The particular raj's transmitted by different
coloured glasses, and how far this is affected by heat.
As the same nominal colour may be produced by dif-
ferent means, for instance red glass by copper or by
gold, glasses of these different compositions must be
examined. As the thickness of the medium or the
depth of the colour most materially influences the
absorption, this should he determined for various
thicknesses.
This has been partially done by Sir J. Herschel,
myself, and others.
30. The most efficient and easily applied means for
enabling an ordinary colour-blind person to determine
the colour of a flame seen by him at a distance.
31. How far does the dffferent power of irradiation
or diffraction cause one coloured light to be more visible
than another, either through clear or misty atmo-
sphere, the intensities being equal.
32. Whether there is anj'subjective cause tending to
the more ready perception of some particular colours.
33. Whether coloured lights can be advantageously
produced by bringing certain salts, or other sub-
stances, into tho flame of the lamp ; or by exposing
baryta or strontia to the oxy-hydrogeu flame, in place
of lime ; or by steeping the charcoal points of the
electric lamp in similar salts.
34. Whether a larger amount of coloured light
might be obtained by making use of a portion of a
beam prismatically dispersed than by reducing it by
absorbent media.*
" Sii- David Brewster, in his reply to the scientific questions,
received since this was ■written, suggests other means of obtain-
ing the same object.
For/ Sit/iials.
35. The manner and degree in which fog absorbs
or destroys sounds of different pitch.
36. The manner and degree in which fog absorbs
or destroys sounds of diffei-ent characters ; for in-
stance, a sharp sound or a prolonged sound.
37. A comparison of the various means of pro-
ducing loud sounds, as to their pitch, volume, con-
venience, costliness, &c. The bell, gong, gun, drum,
horn, whistle, &c. must be considered.
38. Whether there are any reasons existing either
in nature, or in the human mind, which render more
perceptible a repetition of the same sound, or some
variation in note, octave, frequency, &c.
39. The influence wliich the height above the sea,
at which the sound originates, has upon the distance
at which it is audible in fog.
40. The influence of a background, such as tower,
a cliff", or a hill, in reflecting sound.
41. The best means of directing a sound in a par-
ticular direction.
42. The best means by which the direction of a
sound may be approximately determined by a listener
on board ship.
Buildings.
43. Tho relative durability of different kinds of
stone, slate, brick, composition, cement, metal, and
other building materials, when exposed to sea water
or seaspray, as well as the ordinary influences of
wind, sun, and rain. The relative costliness and
ease of working will depend much on the site.|
44. The same in respect to different kinds of paint
and other colouring materials.
45. The best form for resisting the force of the
waves, the building being solid.
This was determined by !Mr. Alan Stevenson to be
a hyperbolic curve.
46. The best form and arrangement of piles, so as
to secure the greatest strength with the least resist-
ance to the waves.
47. The best methods for maintaining a comfor-
table temperature in the lantern, watchroom, and
keepers' houses.
48. The most convenient, trustworthy, and inex-
pensive methods of producing a continuous movement
for revolving apparatus, working fog signals, &c.
Altitude of Light.
49. The comparative amount of interruption in the
visibility of a light by the upper, middle, and lower
strata of ordinary showers.
Tlic following inquiries are of a local character.
50. The ordinary height of the sea mists at or near
the proposed site.
51. The influence of hills, and other geographical
characteristics of the neighbourhood, on the pro-
duction of clouds during prevailing winds.
52. The ordinary height at which these clouds are
formed, or at which those borne by prevailing winds
pass.
53. The height to which the sea spray rises at the
proposed site during common gales.
54. The height to which dust rises under similar
circumstances, and whether it is of a character that
would attach itself to the glass of the lantern.
J. H. Gl.ADSTONK.
The preceding list was first submitted on August
29th, with the exception of Nos. 19, 26, 34, and 49,
which were added in December 1860, when also the
following list was prepared.
AdditioNjU. Investigations ha\-ing reference solely
to Floatincj Lights, Buots, and Beacons.
Action of Wares, S)-c.
55. The whole theory of waves in the open deep sea.
56. The manner in which the movement of waves
is modified by tides or currents.
57. The manner in which the movement of waves
is modified by the vicinity of land, either as a shore
on one side, or shores on both sides, isolated rocks,
or a bottom at no great distance from the surface.
58. Tlie manner in wliich these modifying in-
fluences act and re-act on one another.
INVESTIGATIONS PROPOSED BY DE. GLADSTONE.
73
These questions arc treated in some works on
natural philosophy ; liut not so fully as might be
desired, in any with which I am acquainted. If they
were satisfactorily determined they would form a
good foundation for the following inquiries : —
.59. The form of vessels (for ships or buoys), which
will maintain the greatest equilibrium under all or
any of these circumstances.
Questions relating to the equilibrium of floating
bodies have frequently been discussed lioth mathe-
matically and iiractically, as by the Kev. W. Moseley,
but not generally with reference to the nature of
waves. Opposite opinions are expressed by eminent
men in our scientific evidence.
60. Where the moorings should be attached to such
a vessel, so as to interfere least with the maintenance
of equilibrium.
On this point also there is contrariety of opinion
among tiie scientific evidence.
6 1 . The form of vessel (for ships or buoys) which will
offer the least resistance to water under all or any of
tlie preceding circumstances, when the vessel is moored.
62. Where the moorings should be attached to such
a vessel so as to be subjected to the least strain.
63. The form of hull, masts, and rigging, least
affected by high winds, the vessel being stationary.
64. The laws that determine the formation or shift-
ing of sand banks under such circumstances as occur in
nature ; for instance, at the embouchure of a muddy ri-
ver where the sea is shallow and exposedto strong tides.
3Iaterial.
65. The relative durability of different woods, iron
in its various conditions, copper, " yellow metal," and
other alloys, and of these covered with diflerent
paints, when exposed to seawater in rapid motion,
air, and sun, and liable to the growth of alga, and the
attacks of marine animals.
66. The toughest description of iron for moorings.
This, I presume, has often been the subject of
experiments ; but as the presence of a small quantity
of some other element will often alter the properties
of iron considerably, experiments on new comliina-
tions, or on new descriptions of iron that come into
the market, should be made from time to time.
Mechanics.
67. The most perfect mechanical contrivance,
practically applicable to the lantern of a lightship,
for maintaining it in the same horizontal position
under every variety of motion.
68. The best form for the links of a cable, and for
its fastening to a floating body, so as to ensure the
greatest strength with a due regard to mobility.
69. The best form of anchor for different descrip-
tions of river or sea bottom.
Indication of Buoys.
70. The relative merits of different colours, and oi
combinations of these colours for catching the eye,
when the object so coloured is riding on the surface of
the sea in thick weather, or on a clear night.
The mariners' evidence, and observations made
by the Commission, establisli that buoys of a dark
colour are most apparent at night ; but they do not
decide between red and black, nor between plain and
chequered or striped buoys.
71. Whether red paint, when the light incident on
it is small, is distinguished with difficulty by ordinary
observers from black paint.
72. The most available means of obtaining sufficient
mechanical power from a tidal or other current to
ring a Ijell, strike a gong, blow a whistle, or make
any other efl'ective sound.
Some suggestions are given in the scientific evidence.
73. The means best calculated to effect the same
object in an almost motionless sea.
74. Whetlier any chemical means of producing
light can be made available for the illumination of
buoys or beacons washed over by the waves, and which
sometimes cannot be reached for weeks together.
75. The relative intensity, expense, and security
from accidents of different galvanic lights (as an
ignited platmum wire, or the vacuum discharge in
very narrow tubes.) The power may be produced on
land, and conveyed by insulated wires, but the appa-
ratus where the light is produced must require no
attention for weeks together.
76. The most effective means for reflecting from a
buoy or beacon under the aforesaid circumstances a
light produced on shore. J. H. Gladstone.
RELATIVE POSITION OF THE ELAME TO THE DIFFERENT PARTS
OF A DIOPTRIC ILLEMINATING APPARATUS.*
An ordinary dioptric apparatus for a fixed light
consists of lenticular zones, upper prismatic zones,
and lower prismatic zoues.
There are two objects sought : —
1st. To send the strongest possible light to the
actual horizon.
2nd. To throw the strongest possible light on the
sea between the actual horizon and the light-
house, but especially near the horizon.
To fulfil both these requirements to their fullest
extent is evidently impossible ; they are antagonistic.
It becomes, therefore, a desideratum to determine
their relative importance. This will differ with the
site ; but taking this into account, and the elevation
of tlie apparatus, it would be easy to decide ou a cer-
tain angle of divergence which the very l>right beam
should possess, taking care at the same time that a
small amount of light was allowed to fall between
that divergent beam and the base of the lighthouse.
It is only necessary, in this instance, to consider a
section of the flame.
If tliere were no apparatus at all, every luminous'
point in the whole flame A B, C D, would send its
rays to an eye on the horizon, the said rays forming
a cone, of which the luminous point is the apex and
the pupil of the eye the base ; and the farther the
horizon is from the flame the smaller will be the
divergence of this cone, and consequently the smaller
will be the amocnt of light received by the eye. The
whole of these rays which thus reach the eye on the
horizon will be comprized within the Ijeam AM, C N,
the sides of which are approximately parallel. Any
ray, from any part of A B, C D, which is directed
above or below this beam, or which cuts either of its
boundary lines B M, D N, will never reach the horizon.
* This is printed exactly as it -was prepared for the use of the Commissioners near the commencement of our inquiries into the
proper adjustment of the illuminating apparatus, and therefore before the discussions and experiments at Whitby and Birmingham.
In the diagrams no attempt was made to represent the actual proportions of flame or glass work in use ; and the whole must be
taken simply as a scientific introduction to the subject — J. H. G.
I. K
74
APPENDIX TO KEPOKT ON LIGHTS, BUOTS, AND BEACONS :
1st. The Lenticular Zones.
If now, a leus be introduced in tlie course of this
beam, as at O P, it produces both a loss and a gain
of light to au eye on the horizon, that is to say, some
of the ravs whiclt formerly entered the eve are now
divt rteJ from it, while other rays arc brought to it.
If F be the focus of the lens, answering to the eye on
the horizon, no rays will enter that eye except from
luminous points comprised within the double triangle
E F G and H F I.
From the point F the whole of the divergent rays
between F O and F P will be sent to an eye on the
horizon. From any point K in the anterior triangle
II F I a larger jiroportiou of the divergent rays
between K O and K P will enter the ey e on the
horizon than if the lens were not there, for the lens
contracts the whole divergence K S into a divergence
of only T U.
And similarly from any point L, in the posterior
triangle E F G, a larger projiortion of the divergent
rays between L O and L P will enter the eye on
the horizon than if the lens were not there, for the
lens will contract the whole divergence V W into
the cenverging beam X Y, which must have a focus
somewhere, from which it will diverge again, but at
an angle smaller far than V L W.
The nearer the points K and L are to the point F,
the larger will be the proportion of the divergent
beams from them that will enter the eye on the
horizon.
By placing the focus F in the anterior part of the
flame instead of the centre, the following advantages
will be gained : — 1st, it, and the neighbouring points,
which are so valuable for the horizon, will be situated
in a very luminous, instead of a non-luminous part of
the flame.
2ud. A larger section
of the flame will yield
light to the eye on the
horizon.
3rd. This light will
mainly converge between
the lens and the eye, and
hence will be more valu-
able.
As far as the surface of I
the sea is concerned, the
introduction of the lens in
the path of the beam B JI,
D X, produces the following effect : —
1st. The divergence is made smiiller, for the ray
proceeding in the direction B P is refracted some-
what upward, though still below P N, and the ray
B O is not refracted downwards so much as to be
parallel with B P.
RELATIVE POSITION OF FLAME AND APPARATUS.
This seiulinjr of the rays further to sea -will be
orenerally an advantage.
2nd. The light sent to the sea is the whole of that
emitted from A E F II B, (passins throiiirh O P),
and half of that from EF G and^HFI (with the
exception of what goes to the eye ou the liorizon),
instead of being lialf of that from the whole flame
A B C D ( witli the exception of what goes to the
horizon). This may be made an advantage by de-
pressing F sufficiently.
3rd. The light will be distributed diflferently on the
surface of the sea.
Hitherto that portion of the lenticular apparatus
has been alone considered, which is interposed in the
path of the rays proceeding directly from the whole
flame A B C D, to an eye on the horizon ; but
practically the lenticular zones are extended above
and below this.
The higher portion of the leus E 0 sends a por-
tion of the light that impinges upon it to the horizon.
and another portion to the sea, whereas without the
lens, or some equivalent optical arrangement, all these
rays would go the sky.
The lower portion of the lens P Q will cause a
25ortion of the light th.at impinges upon it to proceed
to the horizon, another portion will be directed to a
more distant part of the sea than it would otherwise
have fallen upon, while another portion which would
otherwise have proceeded to the sea will be directed
towards the sky. The parts of the flame which fur-
nish these difterent rays will be easily seen by a re -
ference to the preceding demonstration. For the
reasons above given the focus F should be in the
anterior portion of the flame.
To secure the advantage of throwing as little light
up to the sky as possible by the lower portion of the
lens, the focus might be advantageously placed at a
lower point F', than that adopted for the central
part of the lens.
2nd. The Upper Totally Reflecting Zones.
The reflecting surface of these prismatic zones acts
as a mirror ; and in the subjoined diagrams it alone
is represented for the sake of simplicity.
If this surface be flat, it will send to an eye on the
horizon such rays as impinge on the said surface from
a segment of the flame. This beam, of which the
sides are E K N and C G M, is really conical,
since the pupil of the eye is smaller than the segment
of flame E L, but as the horizon is very distant the
sides are approximately parallel. All the light from
below this segment, and a part of it, wiU be cast upon
the sea. D G is reflected in the direction G E, and
B K in the direction K T. Similarly all the light
from above this segment, and a part of it, will be sent
to the sky B G, reflected in the direction G S.
Hence the segment of the flame, rays from which
are sent to the horizon, should be taken as much
from the upper and the posterior portion of the flame
as is consistent with obtaining a good body of light.
._ .S
3rd. The Lover Totally Reflecting Zones. %\°^ the horizon rays from a segment analogous to
„ -^ ^ " "'■ that described in the case of the upper reflectors. All
11 the reflecting surface be flat, it will send to an the rays from the parts of the flame that are lower, or
K 2
76 APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACOXS :
posterior to thii. senrment, and a part of the rays from cuts off a large proportion of these, the lower prisms
it, ivill be reflected to the sea ; but as the lamp itself cannot be very serviceable for illuminating the near
surface of the sea. Similarly, all the rays from those be taken as far forward in the flame as is compatil>le
portions of the flame that are higher or anterior to with obtaining a good body of light.
the said segment, and a part of the rays from it, will J. H. Gladstone.
be reflected to the sky. Hence this segment should July, 1 860.
4. Addition made on August. reflected in the direction of G U and D K in that
If the reflecting surface of the prisms be flat it of K V.
must cause a wide divergence of the rays ; A G being This divergence is lessened by making the reflect-
ing surface concave. The curve may be made of
such a nature as to bring all the rays proceeding
from a luminous point F iu the directions M and N.
to an eye on the horizon. In that case tlie ray A G,
will be reflected in a direction G Y, and the ray
D K, in that of K Z, giving a divergence much
smaller than before, and causing the light that falls
on the sea to be sent nearer to the horizon. In fact,
the curving of this surface produces a precisely
analogouseft'ect to the interposition of the lens in the
course of the direct rays from the flame to the eye on
the horizon ; and all the remarks made on that sub-
ject and on the proper place for the focus F will.
mutatis mutandis, apply here also.
I
LETTERS FROM THE ASTROXOJIER ROYAL.
77
LETTERS FROM THE ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
My dear Sir, London, S. E., 2d April 1860.
To place before you different points as they occur
to cue, I will give the following results of calculation
of dip (omitting refraction).
Taking 4,000 miles for the earth's radius, a light-
house, to be visible on the horizon at 30 miles distance,
must be elevated 594 feet. Using this as basis of
calculation, the following are the dips for a ship at
ditferent distances : —
Miles.
30 - - - 0 25 47
25 - - - 0 26 13
20 - - - 0 27 56
15 - ... 0 32 14
10 ' - - 0 42 58
5 - - - 1 19 30
4 - - - 1 38 25
3 - - - 2 10 14
2 - - - 3 14 21
1 - - - 6 28 0
1 - - - 13 0 0
1 - - - 26 45 0
Now, in reference to the wants of nautical men,
ought we to be sure to provide for light at the small
distances as well as at the great ones ? The subject
may be important if we contemplate the use of very
small sources of light, as the galvanic spark.
I am, &e.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airt.
&c. &c.
Royal Observatory Greenwich,
Mt dear Sir, 7th April 1860.
I RETURNED from Birmingham on Tuesday
evening.
I went to Birmingham a little earlier than I had
intended, in order to try the Australian fixed light at
night. It is a light for an island, and shows light at
seven faces of eight. I did not give much attention
to the reflector, but observed carefully the adjustments,
&c. of the ]>risms. The following is the general
report on them.
The individual prisms were all properly curved
and all well adjusted. I cannot say that one was
better than another. (I have forgotten to say
that four posts had been erected at my request,
the distance of the furthest being 450 feet ; and
bench-marks at the same level had been established
on them by spirit-levelling ; and by means of these
certain marks had been made at the height of definite
parts of the glass frame, and by these my observations
were made). Each pannel of prisms that I examined
appeared excellent. The vertical spread of light in
each prism seemed considerable, fully I'witli undi-
minished intensity ; but this I found solely to be attri-
butable to the vertical depth of the great lamp (for the
dioptric part), and to the depth and breadth (for the
upper catadioptric part). Then I had various parts
covered, so thati could examine separately, — the cen-
tral dioptric part, and the upper and lower cata-
dioptric parts. I saw immediately that the dioptric
part tlirew its liglit too high, and that the catadioptric
parts threw their lights too low. The error in each
case was considerably under 1° ; but yet, though (as
I have said) the spread from every individual beam
exceeded 1°, besides giving a quantity of stray light,
produced, I suppose, by petty flaws, and illuminated
particles in the glass, yet this error in the general
direction of the masses of light immediately attracted
attention. Tlie inference was, that the lamp was too
low. We raised the lamp pillars -,'j of an inch, and all
v.-as then right. During this time the lamp-flamohad
been, as I understand, at the full English height, not
at the full French height. When the lamp-flame
was lowered, the faults exhibited themselves again.
The height of the lamp-stand had been adjusted by
the engineer's usual rule.
No light-frame, I believe, had ever been examined
so well before.
I consider this examination important, as showing
the following points : —
1. The general excellence of the system of grind-
ing the prisms, and arranging them in each
frame, by the operations in Messrs. Chance's
long gallery.
2. The necessity for another examination when
all the frames are united.
3. The importance of not being bound by such a
rule as had been adopted by the engineer.
The engineer had provided, for the lightman's
guidance as to height, an apparatus of strings running
through ver}' small holes, too delicate (I thought) for
coarse hands. I suggested a little pillar standing on
the pedestal.
My observations show the importance of attending
more carefully to height of lamp than has yet been
done, and show that in the use of small sources (as
the galvanic spark) it will be extremely important to
be assured that the height is always tlie same. I
have iwitten to Farada}- to ask him whether he is
certain of this constancy of height.
After this I examined carefully (in the day) the
mathematical process on which is founded the experi-
mental process by which the curvature of the curved
reflecting side is examined. It appears quite correct.
Subsequently I saw the testing of one of the external
rings of a lens in the long galler}'. This was gouig on
as a matter of daily manufacture, and was not put up
for my edification. It was excellent. I had no idea
that a ring could be ground to do its duty with so
much accuracy.
General Inference.
At present, the great excellence of a lighthouse is
or may be the optician's part. The great defect and
waste is in the source of light.
I am, &c..
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airt.
&c. &c. &c.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
My dear Sir, 11th April, 1860.
On the other leaf I place excerpt of a letter
which I have received from Faraday, regarditig the
vertical adjustment of galvanic lights. He has no
fear about it, but remarks on the care which it may
require.
I mentioned to you my strong objection to the
entertaining of any proposal for use of glass prisms
and lenses, shaped by any process except grinding.
The inconsiderate parsimony which has induced any-
body to contemplate the use of pressed glass for light-
houses is to me totally incomprehensible. Let any
one examine the straggling beams of light that are
given by the sun shining through an ordinary window
glass, or let him view a complicated prospect, as seen
through such a glass, and then compare them with
the same things as seen through a good ground plate
glass, and he will see what would be lost by such
adoption, or rather, he would see part of what would
be lost. For, I believe, that the accuracy of form
which can be given to a pressed piece of cast glass is
far below the accuracy of parallelism of the two sur-
faces of blown or sheet glass in ordinary windows ;
and its error on the direction of a beam of light
greater than that of a window glass, in the same
degree : and this in a case where the smallest error
is ruinous. An error of 1° in the transmission of
light by a window glass produces no danger, and
does not make the window useless ; but an error of 1°
in the lighthouse beam would make the lighthouse
inefficient, and would produce great dangers on the
coast. And I believe that tlie materials proposed for
use would be liable to produce even a greater angular
error.
K3
78
APPENDIX TO RKPOKT ON LIGHTS, BUOVS, AND BEACONS:
The piT-ccnlagc of saving, which the ailoptiuu of
this imperfect substitute for jrrounfl ghiss would pi'o-
•luce, would be very small. The Skerry Vore Light-
house cost about 80,000/. ; others have cost from
10,000/. to 40,000/. Imagine this expense in fact
thrown away to save 200/. or .300/. in the glasses.
It is in iact a kind of oconi)niy which no one who uses
spectacles would adopt in his spectacle glasses, and
which no hospitable entertainer at dinner would adopt
in his dinner service.
I am, he.
Admiral "\V. A. 15. Hamilton, G. B. Aiuy.
&c. &c.
Extract from a Letter from Professor Faeadat to
the Astronomer Royal, dated 9th April 1860.
" As to your inquiries about the electric spark, the
lamp that Prof. Holmes has had constructed practi-
cally works v.ell ; for, being adjusted, an edge or
object near the light throws a shadow on a distant
wall whose place does not vary. The keeper watches
this shadow from time to time for such a shadow),
and if there be a change, corrects for it, but the com-
pensation for a change of place in tlie carbons, cither
upper or lower, has been very good. I have no fear
for the place of the magnetic electric spark, provided
we can secure the attention of the keepers ; that will
not be called for more than is required by the written
regulations now. or than was given by the keeper at
the South Foreland ; but it must be a good deal more
than what is absolutely necessary for an oil lamp.
'• If the electric light should come into use, it seems
to me that there will be no difficulty in bringing both
the vertical and the horizontal divergence easily
under command."
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
London, S.E.
My dear Sib, 14th April, 18G0.
With this I return Mr. Campbell's excellent
tetter. The process which he has used at the Point
of Ayre is exactly what I had intended to use at the
South Foreland or the Start ; with this modification
only, that I had intended to provide myself with two
])ieces of dark cotton, so that I could cover all above
and all below a single prism or a single set of prisms,
and could thus analyze the operation of every indi-
vidual part of the optical apparatus. I think that in
the extension of operations some such arrangement
will be found useful.
I am, &c.
Admiral AV. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airy.
&c. iftc.
Royal Observatorv, (jreenwich.
My Dear Sir, 2.3th May 1860.
I THINK it desirable to put on record my imi)res-
sions derived from the examination of the Start
Lighthouse. I wish that I had done so sooner, but
my time has been very closely occupied.
1. Fixed frame in which the I'otating jjart revolves.
The part of tliis frame which guides the axis of the
rotating part is not quite vertical. The error which
it ])roduced on a 2 feet plumbline was about -j inch
forwards or backwards, so that probably the top is in
error about J inch with respect to the bottom.
2. Corrections of radius of the rotating i)olygon."
There is no error worth mention.
3. Eccentricity of lamp. The lamp is about J inch
eccentric. This arises, I suppose, from the want of
vertic.ality of its jiiliar support, which is disreputably
conspicuous to the eye. The workmanship is not good.
These errors do not in themselves produce any
sensibly injurious effect witli the existing large lamp,
supposing it fully lighted up. (With very small
lights they woulil bo intolerable.) But in combina-
tion with the fault of lighting the lamp of which I
next speak. No. 1 may produce a sensible elFect.
4. Elevation of lamp flame. On examining the
position of the inverted imagi> of the SV.S.W. sea
and sky over the lamp, jis formed by the central lenses
of the sections of the rotating frame, it appeared that,
(with irregularities to be mentioned) the image of the
sea horizon is about !•! inch above the lamp rings,
oftener more than less. When the lamp was lighted,
as in the usual way, its outermost ring of flame was
barely as high as tliis, or not so high. Consequently,
the whole of that light is thrown into the sky. and "is
useless to ships. The two internal rings of flame
probably send their brightest light to the sea horizon,
or nearly so, and, upon the whole, their arrangement
is not injudicious. Yet, considering the eflect of the
external ring of flame, a greater quantity of light
might be sent to the horizon, and a much greater
quantity on the sea generally (including the near
distance) if the lamp were raised \ inch.
.J. Loss of light on the unarmed sides of the light-
house. On -J of the circumference, if my recollection
is correct (possibly less), no light is shown, and the
light radiating from the lamp in that direction is in
no way utilized. In the circumstances of a revolving
light (as the Start), the only method of utilizing this
light appears to be, to plant a spherical concave mirror,
whose centre is the lamp, in the inside of the rotating
part, but not carried by the rotating part. When (as
in the Start light) the floor does not rotate, this can
be done without difficulty. In some constructions I
think there might be difficulty.
6. Form of the central lenses. The greater propor-
tion (about six) of the c^nitral lenses appeared to me
to be not badly shaped: the image of the sea horizon
occupied pretty nearly the same place as viewed by
light coming tiirough the centre, the top, the bottom,
or the sides of the lens. Tiie foci of some fell short
of the lamp centre, or beyond it ; but with the large
lamp this is unimportant. But there was one lens
extremely bad ; it produced a distortion like that of
a knob of crown glass. It could never have been veri-
lied, and must be regarded as very discreditable to the
maker. (This is a very advantageous specimen of
what would be produced by pressed glass.) There
was another, bad in a minor degree.
7. Form of the ring lenses. The curvature of the
surface of the rings is exceedingly erroneous. The
image of the sea horizon produced by each ring,
instead of being something like a horizontal line, as it
ought, is in all cases a line clinging to the circular
form of the ring, so that the inner portion of the
ring is usually seen bright and the outer portion dark
(or vice versa.). I suspect that the rings have been
ground in a spherical bowl, which would give equal
curvatures in radial and tangential directions, and this
would be erroneous. !Mr. Chance's process, of causing
the ring to rotate round the optical axis, vrhile the
transverse curvature is determined by the nature of
the cross stroki; of the polisher, controls perfectly the
i-elation of the curvatures, and gives the power ol'
impressing the proper form on both. From what I
saw, of a lens ring under test, and of the general
processes of testing at Messrs. Chauce'B works, I
scarcely doubt that their curvatures are quite correct.
I should much like to examine them on a sea horizon.
8. Upper fixed reflectors. There are 7x19 fixed
looking glass reflectors, each adjustable by its sepa-
rate screws. These screws do not strain the form of
the glass, but only alter its general position. The
mirrors are therefore subject to two examinations,
one for form, the other for position. The examination
for form is difficult (on account of the elevation) and
tedious (on account of the number) ; and where these
circumstances hold, many faulty mirrors will in-
fallibly be inserted. Some of them gave the image
nearly as it ought to be seen, but I was not provided
with proper apparatus for the examination. Some
certainly gave the image as it ought 7iot to be seen,
and some were worthless.
For examination of position, there is provided a
small apparatus based on the principle of observing
the surfaces of a coloured fluid in two rising ends of a
horizontal tube. It is a fault of principle in this.
LETTERS FR(»r THE ASTROXOMER ROYAL.
79
that it adapts the reflectors to give a strictlj horizontal
beam; but 1 see no difficulty in adapting; it, by a small
float, to give a beam dipping to or below the sea
horizon; and, with this modification, I approve of the
principle ; but the details of carrying out the opera-
tion of examination are barbarous. The stand which
carries the glass tube ought to revolve in a circle,
preserving the radial position of the glass tube ; yet
there is no revolving radius to carry the stand in this
position. The vertical ranges of mirrors are in
definite azimuths, and the stand ought in succession
to be placed opposite these ; there are no marks for
the purpose. The horizontal tiers are at definite
heights, and the glass tube ought in succession to be
placed at those heights ; there are no marks for the
purpose. In all the adjustable machinery that I
have seen, I never saw anything so bad. It is im ■
possible that the adjustments can be often examined.
The whole c^f this system is unsatisfactory, but I
suppose it will ne\er be repeated.
I omitted to mention that some of the looking
glasses are much tarnished.
9. Practical eflt'ct of these faults. It must always
be borne in mind that the eflFect of a fault is to
be estimated by its proportion to other faults to which
it is added. Now there is the primary fault of the
size of the lamp flame, producing a divergence in
every beam of about 5'^. If the aggregate of all other
faults can amount to o", then, if the beam of light
ought to be definite in the vertical direction only,
its fault is doubled ; if it ought to be definite in
both dimensions, its fault is quadrupled (and at any
rate its intensity is diminished to \). Now the re-
fraction of the ring lenses is so bad that I think it
likely that they do add 5° of divergence, and not
improbably the reflectors do so. On the whole, I
think it likely that the lighthouse does jwt give half
the intensity of light which, as a large lamp light-
house, it ought to give, independently of failing Irom
want of dip of the beam of light.
If, instead of the large lamp, there were a small
ball of lime, or a galvanic spark, the optical fiiiliug
would be intolerable.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airy.
&c. &e. &c.
Royal Observatory Greenwich,
Mr DEAR SiK, 16th June, 1860.
] . I returned late last night from the Whitby
expedition. I reached Whitby on the evening of
13th, and (after being provokingly misled about the
locality of the lighthouses), found them, and took
a partial view in the same evening till the time of
lighting the lamps. On the morning of 14th I went
to them in a carriage ; and, as they are near the
Scarborough road, I drove on to Scarborough, and
thence made Hull on that evening. Yesterday, 15th,
I returned by way of Lincoln. In order first to
despatch unscientific business, I will mention that
my son Hubert accompanied me, and was useful in
the observations, as well as a comfort to myself
(indeed I should have been unwilling to go alone),
and I therefore think it right to consider him as a
chargeable assistant.
2. The two lighthouses are on the edge of the high
cliflTs between two and three miles S.E. of Whitby. They
are about 300 yards apart, and act as leading lights
for warning of a rock called the " Whitby IJock ;"
both are first class fixed lights ; and each gives
illumination to something more than a semi-circumfe-
rence. The south light has reflectors in the blank
part ; the north light has none. They bear the name
of Chance, in an inscription in large letters on the
supporting pillar, from which, as well as from the
statements of the lighthouse keepers, I infer that the
entire light-frame was made by Chance's firm. The
external lantern was made by Wilkins. The lights
are at the ^amc height, 240 foot above the sea.
3. The dioptric part of the apparatus is beautiful.
The glass is of the best quality. The working is so
perfectly true that in viewing the image of the
horizon, and moving the eye so that it (the image) is
shifted from the broad central band successively to
the narrower lateral bands, there is no perceptible
jump or indistinctness, every band forming its imago
truly and exactly in the same place. (If the same
accuracy be preserved in ring lenses, as I have reason
to believe from the performance of the ring which I
saw under trial at Chance's works, there would not
be the smallest degree of the clinging of the horizon
to the outline of the rings, and the succession of tooth-
forms, which were so offensive at the Start.) It is a
most beautiful piece of work ; possible only where
the maker is a man of science and also a practical man.
4. The catadioptric parts are very good, but not so
strikingly good as the dioptric. The veins of the
glass are seen (I could not see any in the dioptric),
and there was some difficulty in catching the image
of the line of horizon so sharply. Still, there it was ;
and there was no difficulty in seeing that the boun-
dary of light did move over the whole as it ought.
(The horizon was not very clear, as seen by direct
view.)
5. The reflectors in the south lighthouse did not
please me. Their general form, I believe, is pretty
correct, but the details of the form are bad. The
image of a straight bar as seen in them is as crooked
as a sheet of corrugated iron. If I could have shut
up the lighthouse into perfect darkness, and could
have put a common candle in place of the lamp, I
could have judged better of the effect of the reflected
light. But my impression is that the reflectors are of
very little use.
6. So much for the apparatus as prepared for use
in the lighthouse. Now 1 proceed to speak of its
adjustment in the lighthouse.
7. Upon comparing the height of the image of
the sea horizon with that of the metallic part of the
lamps, I found that in the north light the image of
sea horizon was more than 1 ■ 1 inch above the metal,
and in the south light more than 1-5 inch above the
metal. The height of the lamp flame was stated by
the attendants at about 2' 5 inches; but when the
lamps were lighted, and maintained to what they con-
sidered the usual and proper height, I found that a
great part of that 2-5 inches was the spikes of the
flame. On examining the image of the sea horizon,
with the lamps lighted (which is by very far the best
way), the following results were obtained : —
8. Dioptric part. In the N. lighthouse, a very
insignificant part of the continuous flame (with its
spikes) rises above the image of the sea horizon. In
the S. lighthouse, the spikes only of the flame rise
above the image of the sea horizon. In other words,
scarcely any part of the light falls upon the sea,
distant or near; the great mass of light is thrown to
the sky.
9. Lower catadioptric part. In both lighthouses
an insignificant part only of the light falls on the sea ;
in fact, we pronounced the lower parts to be useless.
10. Upper catadioptric part. In both lighthouses
the useful part of the light would
be nearly defined
as drawn in this
part A of the flame is useful, the aJ \
part B is useles
11. My impression is, that in the north lighthouse
three fourths of the light is absolutely thrown away,
and in the south lighthouse nine tenths of the lio-ht
is absolutely thrown away. When, with a ruler, I
covered the part of the flame which merely gave light
to the sky, it was absurd to see how little • was
left for the useful part. The lighthouse keepers saw
and understood it as well as myself ; and my son can
tell you as accurately as I can how large is the loss.
It really gave me a feeling of melancholy to see the
results of such exquisite workmanship entireh'
annihilated by subsequent faults iu the mounting and
adjustment.
1 tue iigni wouiQ \
s^ diagram."^ The ik/^VvWAV)
K 4
80
APPEKDIX TO PvEPORT ON LIGHTS, SCOTS, AXt) BEACONS :
12. If the lamp flames were burnt much higher,
the proportion of loss would not be so great ; but still
the positive loss would be great.
13. To remedy the evils in this instance, and to
make the lights truly efficient, the first step would be
to raise the lamps about ^ inch for the north light-
house, and about Ij inch for the south lighthouse.
This would make the dioptric part perfectly good ;
but the catadioptric parts would be made worse than
they are at present. In order to correct them, the
brass frames must be loosened, and their upper ends
must be drawn outwards to an extent easily deter-
mined by trial. Then the whole lighthouse would
throw a magnificent blaze on the sea.
14. I may point out two collateral proofs of the
extent to which the defects of the lights have been
practically experienced. The first is the introduction
of reflectors into the south lighthouse and not into
the north lighthouse ; the explanation is, as I have
stated, that the south lighthouse is in more fiulty
adjustment than tlie north. The second is, that
sailors have made complaints that the lighthouse
gallerv cuts off the lower beams of light, and that it
ought to be lowered ; the explanation is, that in the
fault of adjustment, all the light is thrown too high
and none is thrown low.
15. To prevent the frequency or repetition of such
faults as are conspicuous in these lights, I see no
course but the appointment of a competent optical
engineer, who shall be responsible for the careful
examination of the lights in their place and in
action.
16. I hf.v2 now to submit another remark to your-
self and the Commission. With whom the blame of
this fault of adjustment rests I do not know, but I
can say with certainty that the merit of the most
admirable workmanship of the glasses is Messrs.
Chance's. The state of these lighthouses nuist sub-
stantially be published ; they will necessarily be con-
nected with Messrs. Chance's name, and a great
blame may be unjustly thrown upon those manulac-
turers. It is in my opinion much to be desired that
a statement of the condition of the lighthouses, fully
embodying a recognition of the beauty of the work-
manship as well as an account of the fault of
adjustment, should be communicated first to Messrs.
Chance. (For instance, parts of this report might
be copied, beginning with article 3 and ending with
14, and also one which I am going to subjoin.) Some
steps might follow, in the way either of correspond-
ence, or of material action, or of both ; which, while
they would not cause a suppression of the statement
which I have made, would permit it to be given in
such a shape as would prevent the commission of any
injustice, or the excitement of any painful feeling.
17. The further statement which I had nearly
omitted to make is this ; that the engineer's work in
the frame, &c., is of excellent quality, the lamp plll.ar
is firm and truly central, and all the solid work
appears to be of the highest order.
I am, &c.,
G. li. Airy.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton,
&c. &c. &c.
Roval Observatorv, Greenwich, S.E.
Mv iir.AR Sin, ' 25th June 1860.
I fnoi'osF. in this letter to lay before you the
impressions which I have received from examination
of the following five lighthouses, viz. : —
The High Light on the north bastion at Calais.
The Small Light of Cape de Valde.
The Light of Grisnez.
The South Foreland Light.
The North Foreland Light.
1. The High Light of Calais. The fundamental
part of this light is essentially similar to to those of
Whitby aiul the Forelands ; a fixed light, furnished
with bands of glass for the central or dioptric part,
and with prismatic bauds with internal total reflection
for the upper and lower catadioi>tric parts. The
glass is good, but I think not equal to that at Whitby;
and the relative adjustment of the contiguous bands
perhaps not quite so good as at Whitby. In respect
of adjustment of each pannel of bands or prisms, this
part of the structure may be considered an exact coun-
terpart of the X. lighthouse at Whitby. The image
of the horizon, as formed by the dioptric bands, is
somewhat more than an inch above the lamp metal,
and all parts of the lamp-flame above that height are
effectual on the sea, by ojjeration of the dioptric band.
But from the lower prisms scarcely a ray reaches the
sea. and from the upper prisms the light of a very
small part only reaches the sea ; they are practically
useless.
In considering this instance, as also those of the
two Foreland lights (both constructed by French
artists emploj'ed by Messrs. Wilkins), and those of
the Whitby lights (constructed under the immediate
direction of a French gentleman, Messrs. Chance's
foreman), I am inclined to think that a faulty rule
has been, at some time, given by some practical au-
thority in France, and has been slavishly followed in
France and England.
Exterior to this fixed ring frame is a lightly con-
structed revolving frame, cr.rrying (at equal distances
on its circumference) three vertical pannels, each
composed of vertical bands nearly similar (mutatis
mutandis) to the dioptric ring-bands. The intersec-
tion of these vertical bands with the horizontal bands
or rings ought to produce exactly the efiect of a
lenticular pannel. I was taken by surprise by this
construction, and did not sufficiently examine the
accuracy of the horizontal convergence of the rays.
But having heard subsequently from the pilots at
Dover that the lighthouse exhibits three flashes in
the period of 4°' (the time of revolution of the
frame), of which one is much brighter than the
others ; and having seen from Dover the extraor-
dinary brilliancy of that flash; I am disposed to think
that one of the flames is very well adjusted, and the
other two very ill.
The central pillar bears the name " Francois
jeune."
In the practice of adjusting the lamp there is a
very great difference from those of Whitby. The
rule is, to burn the flame to the height 0' 10 metre, or
more than 3' 9 inches, and it was fully at that height
when I saw it. With the dioptric part, probably the
most brilliant light of the flame reaches the horizon,
and nearly the whole of the sea is illuminated. This
effect is very good, but might be considerably im-
proved by j)roper adjustment of the reflecting
prisms.
The lamp is fed by a pump. (For lamp glass, see
Grisnez, below. For remarks on the reflectors in the
blank sides, see Grisnez, below.)
2. The Small Light at Cape de Walde, or Valde.
This is a fourth class light, and deserves no notice
except as a specimen of a lighthouse with prisms, &c.
made of cast unpolished glass. It is quite sufficient to
condemn the system, even for such a little instrument
as this. The quality of every surface is wretched ;
the form of ever}- surface is faulty ; the surfaces fre-
quently have contrary or ogee curvatures. The pro-
portion of light Sent in any desired direction must be
very small indeed.
3. The Light of Grisnez. This is similar to that
of the Start f lenticular arrangement for the dioptric
part, looking-glass reflectors for the catoptric part).
There are the following differences of detail : instead
of eight divisions, as at the Start, there are sixteen at
Grisnez, and the number of reflectors at Grisnez is
smaller than that at the Start. In the truth of the
workmanship of the lens rings there is a prodigious
difTerence. The rings at Grisnez are so truly
curved that the line of the sea horizon is seen to
traverse all, above or below the centre, without any
clinging to the circumference, or any tooth-like inter-
ruption, as at the Start. Upon examining the adjust-
ment of the dioptric iiannels, and of the looking-glass
mirrors, it was evident that, supposing a good flame
LETTERS FROM THE ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
81
on the lamp, every one of these would send light to
the horizon and upon the sea, losing very little in
the sky. The adj ustrnent of this, now an old fashioned
apparatus, is far the best that I have seen.
Tlie keeper appeared to have no fi.\ed rule of
0- 1™ for the height of the flame. The height which
he exhibited with his fingers was less than 0*1™,
perhaps 3 inches.
I omitted to examine the lamp feeder.
In the lamp-glass here, as well as at Calais, the
form of the glass differs much from that in the
English lamps. The contraction of the diameter,
instead of being made by a square shoulder, as in
the Whitby lamps, is made by a gradual slope of
about H inch.
The diameter of the lamps is 3h inches, sensibly
the same as that of the English lamps. The number
of concentric wicks, four.
In this lighthouse, and in the Calais light, there
are large reflectors on the blank sides. I believe that
they are better shaped than those in the English
lights, but they are so wretchedly dull (scarcely
brighter than a pewter plate) that I do not conceive
Ihem to have any sensible utility.
4. The South Foreland Upper Light. This is a
fixed light, precisely similar to those of Whitby and
Calais. The glass is French (Lepaute), furnished by
Messrs. Wilkins. The dioptric port is fairly good,
but with more veins than in those of Whitby, Calais,
or North Foreland ; and the curvatures are not quite
so well worked. In the catadioptric part, some of
the prisms are abominably veiny, never through their
whole length, but through about half, indicating
some peculiarity in the manufacture of the glass.
One or two of the lower prisms are sensibly out of
adjustment, as compared with the others.
As regards the action of the lamp through the
central dioptric part, the flame to the height of
1| inch throws its light to the sky. The lamp-flame
is maintained to the height of 2^ or 2^ inches, and a
great deal of its best part is efi'ective on the sea.
As regards the catadioptric parts, the lower part
is veiy nearly useless, and the upper part almost
useless, as at Whitby and Calais.
There are reflectors for the blank sides, bright,
but irregular in form, as at Whitby.
Lamp Scinches diameter, with three wicks.
The ligh'tkeeper said that there was great trouble in
maintaining, with the fountain apparatus, a uniform
high light, because when the oil was cold scarcely
enough was supplied, and as soon as the lamp heated
it rau over too copiously.
Tlie reduction of the lamp-glass is not so square as
at Whitby, and not so sloping as in the French lights,
This is an effective light, but admits of being much
improved.
.5. The North Foreland Light. Exactly similar
in form and arrangement to tlie Whitby, Calais, and
South Foreland. The glass is beautiful (none but
the Whitby glass comparable to it), the dioptric band
well worked (not quite so well as at Whitby), the
catadioptric prisms well adjusted together. The
useless portion of flame for the dioptric part 0-9 or
I'Oinch high. Height of flame, as I understood,
near three inches (the oil is supplied mechanically).
The catadioptric parts are nearly useless, as in the
Whitby lights. Bad reflectors on the blank sides, as
at Whitby.
The lamp, as at Whitby and South Foreland, but
there is a more careful apparatus for adjusting the
height of the lamp-glass, which is praiseworthy.
Lamp glasses, as at houth Foreland.
An effective light, but admitting of improvement.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airt.
&c. &c.
judicious co-operation with him, we may do much to
improve the lighthouses.
The note from Cookson's workman on the Start
lenses is, at first, a little obscure, but I understand it
perfectly. The rings and the central lens were all
ground at once by a bowl-shaped grinder, as I sus-
pected ; a very different process from the cross-stroke
grinding at Chance's. This rude note ought to be
preserved, as a very interesting document for the
history of the practical science.
My first recommendation to the powers would be
— the Start Light must be entirely remodelled. It is
a light of great importance.
Now, what in your judgment would be the best
way for bringing together the Trinity Board, and
Mr. Chance, and ourselves, for the improvement of
the Whitby Lights ? It may well be done before )'0u
make your report, and the amended state may make
a good chapter at the close of the report.
I am, &c.
Admiral Hamilton, G. B. Aiet.
&c. &c.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
London. S.E.
Mt deae Sir, 3rd July, 18fiO.
I return the proof of Abstract of Evidence on
Lighthouses, &c., as I must be clearing in reference
to my journey to Spain.
I have no doubt that the failure of the Whitby
High Lights to which you have directed my attention
is simply in consequence of their optical badness.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airt.
&c. &c.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
Mr DEAR Sir, London, S.E.,4th July 1860.
I return the letters of Capt. Ryder and Mr.
Campbell.
I like Mr. Campbell's proposal of shifting the
individual reflective prisms, but for the lower prisms
only. The diverging form of the upper prisms
(which are more important) will not permit the
change.
In regard to Capt. Ryder's proposed order of action,
this is one of the matters of high politique in which I
am not competent materially to interfere, only I say : —
1. The Whitby light is the most flagrant instance
of mismanagement,
2. The constructor of every part of the Whitby
apparatus is at hand.
3. The said constructor is willing to go heartily
into the improvement of the Whitby light.
Therefore, leave all others and rest on it.
And I also say, as far as the Trinity Board is con-
cerned, do everything openly and frankly towards
them.
This in readiness for our possible meeting.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airy.
&c. &c.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
My dear Sir, 'London, S.E., 29th June 1860.
1 enclose a letter which I have just received
from Mr. Chance. It is clear, I think, that by
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
London, S.E.
My dear Sir, 1st August, I860.
The point which I wished to have specially
investigated in the High Calais Lighthouse, is this : —
The frame is fundamentally that of a fixed light, dis-
triVjuting its light equally all round to a certain
angular extent, or, at least, throwing the same con-
stant light to Dover (for instance). And this constant
liti'ht is varied by the rotation of a moveable frame,
which embraces the fixed ligh , apparatus, and which
carries three sets of vertical glass prisms, with surfaces
so curved as to produce (generallvj the same effect of
refraction in a horizontal plane, which the dioptric
hand produces in a vertical plane.
If these vertical glass prisms are properly adjusted,
then, every time that any one of the three frames is
82
API'KNDIX TO REPORT OX T.IGIITS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS:
turned towards Dover, there -will be a concentrated
beam of light of fjreat intensity tlirown to Dover.
But it a])pears that, in point of fact, only one of the
three beams, thrown in the course of a complete-
rotation, possesses any great intensity.
From this, I infer, that one of the three sets of
prisms is well adjusted, and that the others are not.
The test would be this : — Select an object at a
considerable distance, 7iot a horizontal line like the
sea horizon, but a vertical line like a lighthouse, or a
point or small object like a ship. And when the
prism frame under trial is turned towards such object,
remark where the image of such object is formed,*
not in regard to up-and-down (as we have done for
the ordinary tests by sea horizon), but in regard to
riqht-aiid-left ; and see whether its image, as viewed
through the whole horizontal range of the prism
frame, is in the same position (with regard to right
and-left) for every one of the prisms, and for the
whole breadth of each ; and whether the said imag<'
is well formed by each ; and whether all the said
images are formed very near to the vertical axis of
the lamp.
All the images ought to be well formed and united
at the vertical axis of the lamp, and any fault in
those respects would injure the action of the appa-
ratus.
The prism frames ought not to throw the image of
the sea horizon up or down ; this also should be
examined.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Ainr.
&c. &c.
I intend to suggest to Mr. Chance some experiments
for determining the special section of the lamp-flame
which will send to the horizon the most brilliant light
through the reflecting prisms.
I am, &e.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Arur.
&c. &c.
Eoyal Observatory, Greenwich,
London, S.E.,
6th August 1860.
My df.ak Sir,
The points which struck me most in our late
visit to the North Foreland Light, as additions to what
I liad previously recorded, are the following : —
1. The performance of the lamp was very bad ;
the flame, when steady, was much lower tlian when I
saw it before. This circumstance, however, assisted
by the depression of the lamp-flarae (made, as I
understood, within a few days), brought out far more
clearly than could otherwise have been done the im-
perfection of illumination on the horizon and on the
sea. When I saw the lighthouse before, there was
good light on both from the dioptric part, the flame
being then respectably high.
2. I suspected, from recollection of my former ob-
servation, and I now fully confirmeit it, that tlio
curvature of the reflecting surfaces of the upper and
lower prisms, but especially of the latter, is much too
sharp. In the instance which I measured best (2d
lower prism), the horizon image, instead of being
formed on the lamp, was formed 1 1 inches before
reaching the centre of the lauii). The effect of this
was to disperse the light up and dov.n. In the present
generally erroneous adjustment of these prisms, then?
may be' advantage in this, because it throws some
light on the sea ; but if the prisms were generally
Well adjusted, much of the light, which would fall
with great force on the -sea, would be lost.
3. From a remark made by Mr. L. Sautter, it i.s
plain that the ])eculiar effect of reflection is not ftdly
understood by him. lie said that the adjustment of
the reflecting prisms was adapted to a high flame but
not to a low flame. But in reality an addition to the
height of the flame (though very valuable for the
dioptric part) adds nothing to the useful eflect of the
reflecting part, as I have rei)eatedly stated ; and
Mr. Sautter's remark, therefore, must be without
foundation, and expressed without clear understanding
of the matter.
It occurs fo me to suggest for Professor Faraday's
consideration, whether, in a place so accessible, gas
might not be used, either manufactured on the spot or
led from JIargate.
* See. liowever, the last paragraph.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich,
London. S.E.
■My dear Sik, 9th August 1860.
I EXCLOSE a tracing of a sketch that I have
made of the way in which I think the questions of
adjustment of the reflecting prisms of lighthouses
must be treated. I do not mean it as perfectly correct
for angles, &c., but rather as a specimen of method.
I send a copy of it to Mr. Chance.
I am, &c.
G. B. AiHY.
You will remark that I still confine my practical
ideas to oil lamps, or i, which in form is the same
thing) to gas lamps. I hope to see the galvanic light
introduced, but it will require a very extensive change
of lenses and reflecting prisms, and therefore will come
very slowh-. I am prepared with the principal con-
siderations that will then have to Vjo examined.
G. B. A.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton.
&c. &c.
Koyal Observatory, Greenwich,
London, S.E.,
My dear Sir, 8th September 1860.
I RET0RXED yesterday morning, but had no
leisure to write to you yesterday or this morning.
This letter uill be posted on the 10th.
I enclose M. Revnaud's letter, which would have
been of the utmost importance to me if I had gone
alone, and was probably extremely useful in the
actual case.
My course of journey was this : — On Monday
the 3d I went to Dover by 4-30 train, expecting
Captain Ryder either by that train or by the next,
and proposing to cross by the morning steamboat ;
but the night became very fine and calm, and I
determined to cross by the night boat. Established
myself at Dessin's, and in the morning worked off the
Calais Lighthouse. Finding that there is a diligence
to Boulogne at 12, by which time the morning steamer
would be in, I took two places on the diligence, and
waited at a corner of a street for the steamboat pas-
sengers. And there I picked up C'aplain Ryder.
Then we went b}' the diligence (very slow) to Boulogne,
and by railway to Abbeville, where we slept. On
the morning of the .Jth, at 10 o'clock, went by dili-
gence to Dieppe, arriving at past 4. It was too late
fo do justice to Cap d'Ailly, so we arranged for
starting at f> o'clock the next morning, with the
hope of quitting by the boat at 10-40 a.m. On the
morning of the 6th started at 6 o'clock, reaching the
lighthouse about 7-30, and proceeded to work, when
a fog and shower came on which destroyed our
horizon. AVe were compelled to wait so long that the
steamer was effectually lost, so we transacted our
business leisurely, repeating some of the examinations
several times. Started by the steamer at lO-oO p.m.;
was too ill to compare the Cap d'Aillj' ami Beachy
Head Lights. Readied Newhaven on the morning of
the 7th, and came to London and Grei-nwich.
1. In walking backwards and forwards on the
Dover Pier, I remarked the way in which the South
Foreland High Light comes into .sight over the
shoulder of the Downs. It appears as a very dull
spark, very slowly increasing, till at last it rises
rather suddenly into considerable brilliancy. I in-
ter]>ret it thus. The first view is of the upper prisms,
which are so imperfectly lighted that even when all
are in view their ligiit is small, and therefore as they
come gradually into view, the volume of light, small
at the utmost, has increased slowly ; at length the
[read on to page 85.
LETTERS FROM THE ASTROXOMEK ROYAL.
83
Examination of the inclined sections of the Fliiraes of a Lighthouse Lamp, for estimation of the most
advantageous place at which the image of the sea horizon, formed by the reflecting prisms, ought to
cut the flames. It is assumed that lines drawn from the centre of the lamp at an angle of 45°, upwards
and do.vnwnrds, will cut the centre and most eflicient prisms.
View of the Flames feosi the Lower Prisms.
(With the Customary Section no light is really useiul.)
L2
84
APPENDIX TO REPORT OK LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
View or the Fi-Ajres from the Upper Prism?.
(The only ujeful light for the Customary Section is the small part below its line.)
For the Lower Prisms : —
Section 1 appears at first sight to pass through the greatest quantity of light, and thus to send most
light to the sea horizon ; but in fact it does not, because it passes through a non luminous part
of the outer flame, and it almost wholly destroys the light on the sea. It is inadmissible.
Section 2 is better.
I prefer Section 3, as combining all interests in the best degree.
Section 4 throws good light on the sea, but the light to the horizon is (in a very small degree)
diminished.
For the Upper Prisms : —
Sections a, b, c, possess the different properties in degrees very slightly different.
On the whole I prefer Section b.
For Prisms above and below the assumed angle of 45", it is nearly indifferent to what point they are adjusted,
provided it is in the Section 3 or b (as the prisms are Lower or Upper) and within the limits of
the lamp flame. If a point in the lamp axis be adopted, the rule will be this : —
Adjust the lower prisms to a point '2^ high in tiie centre of flame.
Adjust the upper prisms to a point 1^ high in the centre of flame.
9th Au£rust 1860. G. B. Airt.
II
LETTERS FROM THE ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
85
central pannels give their light, which (from the cir-
cumstances of adjustment) is much more effective.
2. Shortly after leaving Dover Harbour, the South
Foreland Lower Liglit comes into view. There was
no mist whatever about the Downs, and both lights
were seen perfectly well all the way to Calais. As
the bearings of the lights .sliglitly clianged, their
relative brilliancy slightly altered (evidently from
window bars, position of reflector edges, &c. ) The
result of very careful examination was that the lights
are exactly equal, sometimes one and sometimes the
other being the brighter. Now the Lower Light is
an old parabolic mirror light, and the Upper is a new
first-cl.ass dioptric and catadioptric glass light. I
conceive that this comparison is discreditable to the
Upper Light.
3. The great Calais Light rose suddenly from the
sea at about one third passage over, witli good light
and great brilliancy at its hrilliiint phase. Of the
apparently triple phnse I will speak hereafter. On
the voyage I timed the brilliant phase and found the
intervals to be 4 minutes.
4. I saw the light on the sands, which we had visited,
(the sailors call it Capo Walhhim). It really gives a
more respectable light than I could have expected
from such an unnatural contrivance.
5. In the Calais lighthouse, I examined very care-
fully the three moveable sets of vertical prisms, and
found all to be in excellent adjustment, a single prism
in a single set being rio far out of adjustment as to
throw the image of a ship about |-inch to one side,
which is of no importance, and none of them dis-
turbing the horizon. Their focus is nearly 1 inch in
front of circumference of lamp, which does no hurt.
(It would do hurt if the light were a galvanic spark.)
I was a little puzzled about the apparent difference
in the triple flash, till I had the clockwork attached,
and the instrument moved " au naturel " as the man
phrased it. I then tried the passages of the succes-
sive sets of prisms, and found the interval from set
No. 1 to set No. 2 to be 4 minutes, and that from set
No. 2 to set No. 3 to be 4 minutes, and the same
No. 3 to No. 1 ; the whole time of revolution being
12 minutes. It was plain, therefore, < hat the apparent
triplicity of phase, whose period is 4 minutes, does not
belling to a difference of adjustment of the three sets
of prisms, but is something peculiar to such prisms,
and is the same for the three sets. And now 1 found
the exjilanation. The vertical prisms absnrb all the
light of the central pannels a little before and a
little after the brilliant flash (leaving only the
light of the reflecting prisms), and collect that light
for the flash. Thus the brilliancy of light is repre-
sented at successive times by successive vertical ordi-
nates of the curve below : —
The pilot, who remarks that after a the light sud-
denly declines, sets down a as a flash ; then comes the
great flash, b, about which there can be no mistake ;
then the light suddenly rises to c, and the pilot con-
sider this to be a flash. My first interpretation of all
this was erroneous ; and I am glad to have had the
opportunity of correcting it ; the correction is worth
the journey.
6. I looked, but in a mere cursory way, at the
general optical arrangements of the glass rings. I
found those of the dioptric part very good (as before)
for a large flame, the image of horizon being about
I '5 inch above the lam p metals ; and those of the
reflectors asbefi.re to be defective, but not so defective
as in the English lights.
V. In glancing at the machinery of rotation, in an
engineering point of view, I found a fault which I
could not have anticipated. Between the fixed plate
and the revolving plate there is a chain of live
rollers ; and the diameter of each roller bears a large
proportion to the diameter of the ring on which
it runs. The slighte.-t consideration would show
that the fixed surface and the moveable surface, one
or both, ought to be conical, their vertices meeting at
a point ; and the rollers ought to be conical, their
vertices being at the san-e point. To my great
astonishment I found that the plates are both flat ;
the rollers, consequently, are always scraping upon
the plates, either with the inner edge of bearing, or
with the outer edge. The keeper told me that the
rollers at first were of iron, and so much of scales
was torn up every night that it was necessary to sweep
the plates every morning. Rollers of gun-metal are
now subsituted, and the metal does not tear them up
as before ; but there must be very great and unneces-
sary friction, and very unnecessary labour is thrown
on the clock.
8. In descending from the lightroom I found the
chef (whose name I forget). He had been greatly
disturbed by the long delay of the visit, which he
had expected in July. I explained the delay by the
eclipse. He spoke with contempt of the Cap d'Ailly
light, which he regarded as remarkable only for some-
thing picturesque in its position. All his admiration
is fixed on the light of Belle Isle, which he describes
as having this peculiarity, that the coupole or external
window frame revolves with the revtilving light frame.
It is evident that there may be advantage in this. I
conceive that this light might be well worthy of a
visit, or at least of a special inquiry, principally for
the engineering arrangements.
9. My examination on all these points of the Calais
lighthouse was so complete, or at least so satisfactory
to me, that I had no scruple in arranging for Captain
Ryder's proceeding at once, as I have said.
10. The Cap d'Ailly light contains eight lenticular
dioptric pannel.< (revolving). The upper catadioptric
prisms are connected with and revolve with the
dioptric pannels, and are in fact a continuation of the
same system, the prisms being rings referred to nearly
the same horizontal axis as that of the dioptric pannel.
But the axis is not exactly the same, because the
pannel of upper catadioptric prisms is hitched about
two inches on the pannel of lenses. The lower cata-
dioptric prisms are fixed horizontal rings.
11. The lamp is fed by pumps. Its height is ad-
justed every three weeks (this cannot be done with a
fountain lamp, on account of the pipe communication).
The oil is filtered through two inches of sand, in the
lower store rooms, before first use and after each
passage through the wicks. There are holes in the
upper metal chimney into which there is a strong
suction draft. The wicks were not cleaned from the
night's work, and there was more than \ inch of char.
On lighting the lamp the men could not get a 4-inch
solid flame, but the average height was about three
inches above the metals. The man played a good
deal in adjusting the glass (a glass with a very gently
sloping shoulder). I inquired whether he would like
a rack-and-pinion movement, but he rather objected
to it, for the following reason : — Sometimes the top
of the glass melts (from the heat), and becomes en-
L 3
86
APPENDIX TO REPOPiT OX LIGHTS, Bl'OYS, AND BEACONS :
sa oed with the iron chimney in such a manner that
there would he difficulty in extricating it hy a mere
raisins and fulling motion without a rotatory motion,
which the rack-and-piuion cannot give, but which the
fingers can give.
12. The name is Lepautc ; the date, I think, 1820.*
The mechanism of rotation has the same fault as that
in the Calais lighthouse (see paragraph V, above).
13. I commenced the optical examination on the
sea horizon, hut after the loss of it I used a well-
detined point of clitt', two or three miks S.W.. on
which the line of horizon was well known ; aud thi.s
was found to be an excellent mark, because there was
no uncertainty about its identification (which, with
several parallel streaks on the sea and sky, is some-
times very ditficult in the narrow prisms), and because
I could instantly see whether the convergence forming
the image was too near or too distant. When the
horizon cleared again I examined it as a sort of veri-
fication, but found nothing wrong in my conclusions.
14. The image of the sea horizon formed by the
dioptric lenses is 1'5 inch above the lamp metals, and
verv near the centre. Tlie lens rings are very well
worked, so that in viewing the horizon image over the
lamp across the upper or lower parts of the lens, there
is no sensible hitch or tooth Irom ring to ring, or
from pannel to pannel; very difierent from the Start,
but similar to Grisnez ; at the same time showing
greater .skill than is necessarily shown at Grisnez,
because the Cap d'Ailly pannels include each one
eighth of the circumference, while the Grisnez pannels
have only one sixteenth of the circumference. These
Cap d'Ailly pannels must (with a lamp flame exceeding
three inches in height) be very effective, and must give
a great blaze of light to the horizon and on the sea.
15. On trying the lower catadioptric prism-^, I found
that the image of the sea horizon was, I think in every
instance (Captain Kyder has taken accurate notes),
thrown above the front edge of the lamp metals, not
quite so high as I could wish, but respectably high,
and these prisms really are efficient. They are the
first that I have seen which deserve that epithet. I
did not very specially remark the distance of converg-
ence forming the image, but I am sure, from my
general remarks, that it must have been very near
the centre of the lamp. Every efiective i)rism was
examined.
16. On trying the upper catadioptric prisms I found
that, with insignificant exceptions (for which I refer
to Captain Ryder's notes), the position of the image of
sea horizon may be thus stated. For the lowest
prisms it is formed by rays whose directions fall on
or a little above the rear edge of the lamp metals.
For the higiiest prisms, it is formed by rays whose
directions fail nearly on the centre of the lamp metal
rings. For intermediate prisms, in intermediate direc-
tions. Thus the rays may be represented nearly as
below : —
say four times as much as at Calais and six times as
much as in any other light t'nat I have seen. I think
that, for my own entire satisfaction, I should have
raised the path of rays even a little more ; but the
general course here is so good that I would not on
any account touch these adjustments. I ought to
mention that we examined every one of the upper 88
prisms.
17. The accurate optical image of the cliff point
v,-as in all instances formed sufficiently near to the
centre of the lamp. Pn some instances it was a little
(perhaps two inches) in front of the centre : in others
it was as much in rear. The latter are usually those
which in Captain Eyder's notes are marki'd as '■ con-
fused." There is no ground of complaint on that
account.
18. On the whole I pronounce this lighthouse to be
in excellent adjustment, and far the most efficient that
I have seen. M. Revnaad has reason to be (iroud
of it.
19. The concave reflectors, which occupy the three
land side spaces, are as dull as those in other French
Lighthouses ; by no means so brilliant as an ordinary
pewter pot.
20. On viewing the light in the evening from
Dieppe (where it produces a very splendid effect), I
remarked that between t">vo bright flashes there are
two intermediate little flashes, so faint that they would
escape ordinary observation. Captain Kyder in
verifying this was rather inclined to consider them as
successive sudden degrees of elevation of light. I am
not able to explain their origin.
I suppose that it will not be necessary for me to visit
any more lighthouses.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton. G. B. Amv.
&c. &c. 8cc.
lump metals.
In every prism a brilli:int light is sent to the
horizon aud a large body of light on the sea, I should
Perhaps a mistake.
Aberdeen.
Jlr DE.vu SiK, 10th October, 1860.
I iiAVK to make the following Report on my
examination of the Girdleness Lighthouse.
I arrived, with my son Hubert, at ^^berdeeu. on
the evening of Monda}', October 8th. On Tuesday
morning I was visited at the house of John Webster,
Esq., by ilr. Alexander Cunningham and Mr.
Thomas Stevenson, Secretary and Engineer of tho
Commissioners of Northern Lights. AVith these three
gentlemen and my son I proceeded to the Girdleness
Lighthouse.
This lighthouse contains two system.? of lights.
The lower, at about } of the height of the building,
consists of 13 parabolic reflectors of the usual form,
occupying with their light something more than the
semi-circumference. I remarked in these that by
a simple construction, which I have not seen else-
where, great facility is given for the withdrawal
and safe return of the lamps, for adjusting the lamps
and for cleaning the mirrors. I made no further
remark on these, but proceeded to the upper lantern.
The lighthouse here is that of a fixed dioptric and
catadioptric light of the first order. It was erected
b}' Mr. Alan Stevenson, 13 years ago (as I under-
stood); the light-panels bear the name of Francois.
The support of the light-frame is not a central pillar
(as in most modern lighthouses), but a diagonal-braced
frame supporting tlie circumference, which I greatly
prefer. The lamp is 4-wick of the usual size, fed
h)- pumps. The arrangement of tlie glasses is as at
the Whitby and Foreland Lights, &c., with 6 rings
of prisms below, and 13 above. The rings, both the
dioptric .and (as I believe) the lower catadioptric are
bounded, not by vertical bars, but by inclined bars,
nil sloping one way: the oppositely inclined bars,
necessary for firmness of mechanical support, being
within the gl.asses. This appears to me to be a good
plan, preferable to that of rectangular bars, both
optically and mechanically. The quality of the glass
is excellent, quite equal to that of any other which I
have seen.
LETTERS FtlOSi THE ASTKONOJIER ROYAL.
87
On examining the image of tlie ?ca horizon (■n-hich
was remarliably clear), as formed by the dioptric
band, it %\a^ at once evident that it (the image), was
a little too high. With some sections of the band, it
■was about 1^ inch (I believe, but I had lost my means
of measuring,) above the metal ; with others about 1^;.
Mr. Stevenson produced a drawing of the lamp, on
whicii the due position of the focal line was marked ;
and I showed him, and he at once assented, that the
lamp was too low by about a inch. The relative ad-
justment of different rings of the dioptric band, &c.,
was good. I then examined the lower reflectors, and
at once saw what I have never seen before. The
principles which I have been anxious to carry out
regarding the due Hood of light upon the sea are
here fulli/ carried out. In every instance the rays
coming from the sea horizon pass above the front edge
of the lamp metal by about or near half an inch,
measured perpendicularly to the rays ; and in the
third reflecting ring from the bottom by a lull inch.
In fact my principle here is rather overdone, but tliis
will be corrected by the same elevation of the lamp
which corrects the action of the central dioptric band.
Then I examined the upper reflectors, and here I
found things very perfectly to my satisfaction. The
rays coming from the sea horizon through the i\-\Y
lower prisms of the set pas.s well above the rear of
the metals, those which come from the highest fall
nearly on the centre.
Remarking how well the important upper set of
prisms are adjusted, and that the adjustment which
the central band and lower prisms seem to require
would slightly injure the action of the upper prisms,
I suggested to Mr. Stevenson that he should not
raise the lamp by the full § inch of which I have
spoken, but perhaps by ^\ inch.
The lamp was lighted for my inspection, and I was
able to point out more distinctly to Mr. Stevenson
that elevation is required, and that the quantitj^
required is small. The lamp flame had scarcely
acquired its full height while I remained at the light-
house, but it appeared to be approaching the French
height. The lamp glass has the gently inclined con-
traction. I could almost imagine that the draft is
too sharp, and that the lamp would burn better v>-ith
holes in the chimney above the da.mper, so that the
damper aperture would be wider.
This lighthouse has evidently been most carefully
planned for the actual depression of the horizon, and
has been maintained in good, though not quite perfect,
daily adjustment ; but the correction required, even
now, is extremely small.
It is the best lighthouse that 1 have seen.
I am, ii:c.
G. B. AiRT.
Admiral \V. A. B. Hamilton,
&c. &c. &c.
Roj-al Observatory, Greenwich,
Mt dear Sir, 20th October 1860.
Ox returning hither I find a letter from
Mr. Thomas Stevenson, which is interesting as re-
gards the history of tlie manufacture of lighthouse
optical frames, and which I therefore transcribe at
length : —
"10th October 1860.
" I find on looking up our old books that the upper
Girdleness Light was changed from the catoptric
to the dioptric system in 1847.
" I forgot to mention, when speaking of Francois
as the manufacturer, that in this, as in the other
dioptric lights, all that was furnished in France was
the glass prisms, and that these were afterwards all
fitted to;:ether in brass frames made at Edinburgh
under Mr. Alan Stevenson's immediate inspection.
The only exception to this was the lens in revolving
«nd he cvlindric reiractinsr belt in fixed lights whic'n
were alw.iys sent in their brass frames by the French
manufacturer."
I am, &c.
G. B. AiKT.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton,
&c. &c.
Royal Observatory, Greenwich, S.E.
My dear Sir, 27 October 1860.
The enclosed letter from Mr. Chance, of Octo-
ber 26, will I think interest you. You will see how
heartily and frankly he enters into our views.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airy.
&c. &c. &e.
" Hamstead, Birmingham,
" Mv DEAR Sin, 26th October 1860.
'• Whes I wrote to you from Whitby I expressed
myself as doubtful concerning the advantages of
aiijusting dioptric apparatus by the image of an
external object.
'•I am now quite delighted with this mode. Not
only does it secure greater accuracy of adjustment of
the glass itself, but, what is very important, it affords
greater facilities for adjusting the glass while the
metallic frame is in its actual ultimate position in the
apparatus.
" This is a great point to be accomplished, and what-
ever method the manufacturer may see fit to employ,
he ought to be required (I think) to adjust the glass
in |the I'rames af/er those frames arc fixed in their
respective positions in the general apparatus.
"The system adopted until quite recently quite
precluded the possibility of any such method, for the
manufacturer was asked to supply (generally) only a
number of isolated panels. For instance, one firm
has at present an order for portions of an apparatus
to be put together thus in detail, the framework being
made elsewhere.
" Most truly vours,
'^J.T. Chance."
Royal Observatory, Greenwich, S.E.
My dear Sir, 10th November, 18cO.
I MAY perhaps consider that a proper time has
arrived for the expression of my general opinions
regarding the conduct of the English lighthouses.
It was my first intention to submit to you answers to
the specific questions contained in the printed letters
of the Commission; but the examination of several
lighthouses (of which examinations the details have
been placed before you) has in some measure changed
my views, and I think that 1 may do more complete
justice to the subject by presenting my ideas without
reference to those questions.
The inspection of the lighthouses to which I allude,
has revealed some faults wliich deserve notice, partly
from their own specific character, but more particu-
larly because they seem to indicate an antecedent
fault in the system of organization under which they
have been produced. Referring generally to my
former letters for these, I will proceed to state the
course which I recommend, commencing with the
personal organization.
1. It appears to me that there is no person ofl^cially
connected with the Board of the Trinity House, who
is distinctly responsible, either for the correct coi-
sfruetion and erection of the illuminating pans tf
lighthouses with reference to their optical etfect, <r
for the continual maintenance of those parts in prc-
l)er adjustment. I think it absolutely necessary that
an officer should be appointed, whom, for the sake of
clearness, I will call '• Optical Engineer," whoso
special duties should be, not to construct or maintain
the architectural fabric (which must be intrusted to
the " Architectural Engineer"), excc[)t in indic.uin"
the requirements for elevation and other dimensions
and for store space, &c., but to construct and main-
4
88
APPEXDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
tain in order the lantern-frame and lantern, the re-
flectors and refractors, and the machinery connected
with them, the lamps and their mechanism, and the
oil or other combustible.
2. The e<luc:ition of the " Optical Engineer" ousht
to be saniewhat peculiar. First, he ought to be a
trained mechanical engineer, competent to manage all
the requisite combinations of cast and forged metals,
and the frames and the mechanism constructed of
them. Secondly, he ought to understand the science
of optics, ina form which is rather unusual, and which
none but a trained mathematician can master. The
kno\vlerl;;e of optics which is possessed (for instance)
by an optical in-trum-nt maker is quite useless for
the construction of lightliouses. In no other working
of gl.'.ssfs, except tliuse for lii'lithouses, is the under-
standing of I he cfl'ect of "different curvatures of a
surface in different planes normal to the surface, re-
ceiving rays of light incident at high angles of
incidence" absolutely necessary. Thirdly, he ought
lo know something of tlie gl iss-making; and ouglil to
be perfectly familiar with the action of the large
lamps under ditferent modifications, as well as with
lime-light, galvanic spark, &c., which it may be pro-
posed to substitute ; but this knowledge requires less
of preliminary training, and will come with es-
perit-nce.
3. Supposing such an officer appointed, the ques-
tions of the printed letters may be considered as in
proper train for solution. There will be a ]M;rson
who can lay down rules for constructors of lighthouse
apparatus, or who can, if n:'cessary, receive thi'ir sug-
gestions (which sometimes may be guideil by strict
theory, and sometimes by practical convenience), and
negotiate upon then.; or who can arrange the special
constructions required for difficult sea channels, for
unusual elevations, &c. It is unnecessary to say
that it would be his duty to see the arrangements
properly carried out (a duty for which there appears
to be, at present, no provision whatever). I do not
therefore think it necessary, at this time, to enter
into the details of those questions.
4. Tlie principal part of the optical engineer's duty,
for perhaps the first two years, would be the exami-
nation of existing lighthouses, with the view of
ascertaining whether they are, in respect of permanent
fittings (independent of daily adjustments by the
lighthouse-keepeis'), in an efficient state. VVhere
change is required, it will often be a question whether
the change should be complete or partial. Thus,
supposing it decided that the Start Lighthouse should
he remodelled, it may be a fair question wliether, in
discarding its lenticular rings, its lenticular centres
might not be retained. This review of lighthouses
will be a troublesome business, but is, in my opinion,
absolutely necessary. It is only thus that we can
arrive at the elimination of such faulty curvatures as
those in the Xorth Foreland lower reflectors ; of such
veiny glass as that in the South Foreland lower
reflectors; of such imperfect lamps as those which I
saw in the Whitby lighthouses ; and of such light-
wasting ailjustment as I have reason to think not
uncommon.
5 Passing now to the material construction of light-
houses, I tliiiik that, upon the whole, the construction
now adopted (with .some parts purely dioptric, acting
by refraction only, and other parts reflecting light by
internal total reflection in glass, with scarccdy any
refraction) is a good one. I prefer the internal glass
reflection, to reflection from any Known metallic
surface which has been actually tried in practice a
sufficiently long time ; first, because I believe the
quantity of reflected light to be greater; secondly,
because I think that by the subdivision of the whole
reflecting surface into a moderate number of parts,
greater accuracy can be given to the adjustments ;
thirdly, because if metallir, reflectors were divided in
the same way, they would bend and would be otherwise
unmanageable. The curvatures, when the reflection
is very oblique, require to be worked with exceeiling
care, which has not been given in every instance ; but
the excellent cro«s-stroke machinery now introduced
in the best factories, with the modes of testing prac-
tised in them, are competent to give the required
accuraey.
6. There is a fault connected with the dioptric
part which may hereafter prove a serious one, namely
the chromatic dispersion. Its effects are suHiciently
conspicuous to the eye; for, even where the quality of
th( glass is very good, it is impossible to see the
horizon distinctly through the extreme edges. It
would seem that the only way of diminishing it is to
effect that direction of the rays of light by reflection ;
but the difficulty of ensuring accuracy of reflection at
very oblique incidence is great; and on the wliole I
do not doubt that the angle at which refraction shall
end and reflection shall begin has been fixed with
good practical wisdom.
7. I can scarcely imagine that anything like achro-
matized prisms can be adopted with advantage. At
the same time I throw out this ^vllole subject of accu-
racy of refraction as one which deserves careful
consideration.
8. In tlie treatment of the whole of this subject I
insist upon accuracy of reflection or refraction of the
beams of light as a principle which ought never to be
relaxed. It is true that a large dispersion of the
beam, perhaps five degrees, is produced by the size of
the large oil lamps ; but if the faults of the reflector
or refractor produce some dispersion, that dispersion
is entirely ad<led to the dispersion depending on the
size of the lamp flame, so that a dispersion which needs
not to exceed five degrees may be amplified into nine
or ten degrees, and the brillianc)' of light thrown
in a given direction will be diminished in the same
proportion.
9. I think that the experimental use of the lime
light in the streets, and that of the galvanic spark at
the South Foreland lighthouse, have sc far succeeded
as to make the employment of these sources of light
plausible. The question then arises. Can they be
einploj-ed with advantage in existing lighthouses ?
Here the first consideration will be. Are the reflection
and refraction in the existing lighthouses sufficiently
accurate ? In the case supposed above (Article x) of
a lamp dispersion of five degrees, increased by an in-
accuracy dispersion of five decrees, the inien?ity of
the beam of light was diminished to one half of what
it ought to have been. But with lime light (and
u fortiori with galvanic light), a lamp dispersion of
less than half a degree would be increased by the
same inaccuracy dispersion of five degrees, and the
intensity of the beam of light in a given direction
would be dimini-hed to f'fth part of what it ought to
be. Without saying that there is this amount of in-
accuracy dispersion in any of our lighthouses, I do,
at present, think it doubtful wLetler their workman-
ship and adjustment are sufficiently exact to give the
increase of optical effect whic h might fairly be ex-
pected from those intense lights. When the change of
light shall he seriously suggested, a special examina-
tion of the lighthouse must be made.
10. Supposing such lights introduced with good
effect, as regards the horizon and the very distant sea,
it would be necessary to provide distinctly for the
illumination of the nearer sea. For it must always
be borne in mind, that the only way of giving inten-
sity to a beam in one direction is to allow no light to
pass in any other direction ; and thus, to make the
I)rincipal part of the reflectors and refractors available
near the horizon, they must not throw any light on
the near sea. This provision may be made perhaps
in part by throwing a portion of the chromatic dis-
persion on the near sea, or in part, by giving peculiar
curvatures to one or two of the less important (the
lower) reflectors, adapted to that purpose. For
arrangements of that kind the talents of the optical
engineer will specially be required.
11. If these brilliant and minute sources of light
should besnccessfullv introduced, it \yould be possible,
theoretically, to reduce tie dimensions of the lantern
to a very small size. Whether this could be done
LETTERS FROjr THE ASTRONOMER ROYAL.
89
practically is not quite so certain. Possibly the
iliiiicii.-iuns might (with due attention to the mag-
nituilc of lamp dispersion), be so far reduced that an
error in position of i- inch would be nearly ruinous
to the effect of the light. Could we depend on the
adjustments being maintained so exact ? If we could,
there would be some advantage in these small light
cases. The glass might be selected of perfect qualit}';
the loss of light from passing through a great thick-
ness of glass would be diminished ; possibly the
grinding of the curves might be more manageable,
and therefore more accurate ; certainly the expense
would be diminished. On many accounts it is highly
desirable to prosecute experiments on the easy and
certain use of these sources of light.
These are the principal matters bearing on the
praciical administration of the lighthouses, which
occur to me at the present time. Should any other
ideas occur to me, I will have the pleasure of sub-
mitting them to you.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Ilumilton, G. B. Aiuv.
&c. f<cc.
Eoyal Observatory, Greenwich, S.E.,
iNIr Dear Sik, ' 8th December 1860.
1 RETURNED froui Birmingham on Tuesday even-
in g, December 4th.
The business at Birmingham consisted chiefly in
ascertaining the point of the lamp flame which might
be considered as brightest, the trial being what part
of the flame sent the most brilliant light to the screen
at the cud of the long gallery in Messrs. Chance's
lighthouse fiictory. The optical apparatus used con-
sisted of the bauds forming one section of the dioptric
part of a fixed light, every one of which was tried
separatelv. The reflecting prisms were not mounted.
The first operation in the logical order (though
not in the actual order of proceedings) was the veri-
fication of the zero of the scale by which the depres-
sion of the entire lamp frame was registered. For
this purpose a small graduated standard was placed
upon the lamp metals, and a gas burner was lighted
at the bar uear the distant screen (which bar was
always adjusted to the height of the band under trial),
and its image was observed upon the small standard
as formed by different bauds of the dioptric ring. In
this manner it was found that for the broad central
band, and for each of the upper bands, when the
deiiression scale indicated 20 millimetres, the image
fell upon 20 millimetres of the standard in the
axis of the lamp ; and thus in subsequent expe-
riments the depression of the entire lamp to any
particular reading indicated that the optical image of
the distant screen zero was elevated by that reading
above the lamp metals. For the lower bands the
adjustment hacl been made to a constant rc:i(M:ig, I
think 18 millimetres above the front edge of the lamp
metals ; and this adjustment seemed to be fairly pre-
served, in correspondence with a depression of the
lamp frame to 20 millimetres.
On the evening of Monday, 3rd December, the
lamp being pump-fed, the lamp glass with gradually
inclined shoulder (like the French lamp glasses), and
the flame very fully high for an English lamji, but
not so high as in the French lighthouses, but forming
a very good solid body of brilliant flame ; the ex-
periments were tried upon one band at a time, simply
by uncovering one band, covering all the others, aud
observing how the shadow of a horizontal bar near
the screen, adjusted to the height of the band, fell
with reference to the place of brightest illumination.
And I was struck with the general delicacy of this
apparently rough method of trial. A change of one
millimetre (■j'j-iucli) in the height of the lamp frame,
was in every instance detected by the change in the
appearance, as to whether the brightest part of the
li^ht fell or fell not upon the horizontal bar ; and in
many instances a change of i a millimetre (j'd-inch)
was clearly discoverable.
The result of this evening's work was that the
height of the brightest point of flame above tho
metals was from 21 to 22 millimetres; certainly not
more than 22.
The various bands agreed very well in this : the
upper bands (adjusted for intersection of axes of
pencils to the same point as the special focus of the
central band), and the lower bands (which, though
adjusted on a different principle, as I have said,
agreed in giving strongest light when the depression
of lamp, or elevation of focus of central band above
the lamp metals, was 21 or 22 millimetres). The
chromatic aberration introduced some uncertainty ;
but the judgment of the eye became at last pretty
decisive.
On the morning of Tuesday, December 4th, the
experiments were repeated essentially in the same
way ; but the lamp was in a better state. Its flame
was perhaps | inch higher than on December 3rd.
It was at a good French height, though not the
highest. (I believe tiiat a camera-obscura trace
made by Mr. Campbell will give accurate informa-
tion on the state of the flame.) The result now was
that the point to be used for the brightest in the
fame was 23 to 24 millimetres above the lamp metals ;
and I believe that, on the whole, we were all in-
clined to prefer 23 to 24. When we tried 28 milli-
metres the light on the zero of the screen was very
much diminished. I felt very great surprise, and so
I believe did all who were present, that Fresnel
could have fixed upon such an element of adjustment.
When the evil from thus throwing the light too high
is aggravated by the dip of the sea horizon (Fresnel's
28mm. adjustment being intended for geometrically
horizontal rays), which for 20' dip corresponds to
about 5 millimetres in height of focus in lamp, — so that
really 33 millimetres is the height to be tried, in
comparison with 23 or 24, which we found best, — the
loss of light is absurd.
A polyzonal lens was then mounted ; and, generally
speaking, it seemed to lead to the same conclusions.
But the light upon the screen could not be observed
with so much accuracy, because the lens produced a
rude image of the lamp flame, and the eye was dis-
tracted by the images of the bright edges of the
various cyliuders of flame produced by the separate
wicks, and by the colours which accompanied them.
It appears to me that two results of considerable
importance have been attained in these experiments.
(1.) We have ascertained with much accuracy the
height to which the sea horizon focus oun-ht to be
adjusted. (2.) We have acquired a very good idea of
the degree of accuracy at which the adjustments
ought to aim.
After finishing our proper experiments we saw
Mr. Stevenson's light lantern for MacArthur's Head
which is a remarkable instance of the arrano-ements
which an optical engineer of lighthouses ought to be
prepared to make when need requires. We^also saw
the frame of the Smalls Fixed Light, which an agent
of Messrs. James Walker and Burgess came" to
examine ; it is framed, for optical convenience, with
inclined uprights ; but I was not satified with' their
bracing.
We also saw the plans (apparently yet imperfect)
for the galvanic spark light to be mounted on tho
Dungeness Lighthouse.
I had nearly omitted to mention one circumstance
regarding the lamp. After two or three hours burn-
ing of the lamp on the evening of December 3rd, it;
was found that the innermost wick was charred
black two inches down. The outermost wick 'i\-as
very little charred. It would be desirable, if possible
to prevent this. '
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, Q J5 ^iry-
&c. &c. &c. ■ ■ .. .
90
APl'E.VDIX TO RI:P<)RT oN LIGHTS, BCOYS, ASl> BEACONS;
REPORTS, .^c. BY PROFESSOR FARADAY.
Repout, !<jc. to the Deputy-Master and Breturen
of the Trinity House.
The Royal Commission on Lights, &e. having
desired to meet the Brethren of the Trinity House at
the North Foreland and 'Whitby Lighthouses, with
certain otlier persons, such as the nianulacturers of
the apparatus, the representatives of the Irish and
Scotch lighthouses, the Astronomer Eoyal, ike, for
the purpose of making certain practical cummunica-
tions to them, which could not be so well done by
writing or elsewhere, such meetings have taken
place. The one at thi- North Foreland occurred on
the 2d of August, wlicn there were present Admiral
Hamilton, Captain Ryder, Dr. Gladstone, the Astro-
nomer Royal, iind ^Ir. Campbell of the Royal Com-
mission: Admiral (iordon, Captain Close, Cajjtain
Bayly, Captain Weller of the Trinitv House; Sir
James Dumbrain of the Irish Board, and Mr. Halpin
and Captain Roberts, ilr. Stevenson of the Scotch
Board, ^Ir. Soutter. of Paris, the maker of the ap-
pariitiis. with Mr. Wilkins, and myself. The other
at Whitby occurred on the 9th of the same month,
when the same persons were present, with the excep-
tion of the Asironomei- Royal. Captain Weller, Sir
James Dumbrain, and Captain Roberts, and the addi-
tion of Captain Nisbet, E.B. Trinity House, and
Mr. J. Chance, the manufitcturer of the apparatus,
with M. JIasseliu. I was there on the part of the
Trinity House as their scientific adviser in experi-
mental lights ; and although I do not wish to assume
the character or respun-ibility of optical or civil
engineer, I feel it my dnty at the call of the deputy
master, to give my impression and conclusions.
Having received no descriptive written document
from the Royal Commission, I may perhaps pass by
some points requiring attention, unawares.
The object ol' the Royal Commission was, I believe,
to point out the necessity of a final examination of
tlie optic apparatus in the lighthouse itself after its
erection, and the demonstration of a mode of making
that examination in a practical manner, which I may-
call the metliod of the Commission. The object of
tlie optic apparatus in a lighthouse is to convey the
rays from the source of light to the sea horizon, or
to the parts of the sea between that horizon and the
shore, in the most abundant degree possible, and in
the most favourable manner. This effect is obtained
by a certain position and adjustment of the parts of
the refracting and reflecting apparatus, and whether
these arc right in this respect may be ascertained by a
process in some degree the reverse of tlie illuminating
method. Tlius, suppose the lamp is lighted, a given
bright spot in its flame selected, and a given piece of
the glass apparatus adjusted, so as to transmit the
light passing through it, from tbe chosen spot to the
sea horizon ; then if the adjustment be right, an
obsi-rver placed on the other side of the flame, and
looking through the spot and tlie glass, will see the
horizon; and this is' an observation easily made in
tbe daytime, either with the flame actually ex-
isting, or with indicating gauges at the burner
(as tlie edge of a card for instance), representing
given or selected parts of the flame. If the horizon
does not appear in the right place the adjustment is
wrong. The same kind of test may be applied to
every part of the apparatus in turn, whether refractive
or reflective, in respect of any part of the horizon or
the sea or the sk}-, and in respect of any part of the
flame or luminous object. A luminous point being
selected, that place which the eye sees through it
will be the place to wli eh the rays issuing from it
in tha'., direction, will proceed.
This appears to me to be an excellent practical
application. In principle it is perfect. The appli-
cation, however, cannot be equally perfect, because
of the inevitable imperfections of construction. StiU
the quality of the glass and its workmanship have
arrived at such a degree of excellence as to justify
the application of tliis refined kind of inspection ;
which may be anticipated and worked up to, by pro-
cesses applicable in the nianufactcry.
Assuming that the apparatus is as perfect in its
execution as can be expected, then the causes that
may interfere with the due effect (and chiefly by
mal-adjustment) are several. First, those connected
with the lamp and flame. The Fresnel lamp has a
burner and cottons having a horizontal Avidtli of 3j-
inches in diameter ; — the flame, as it rises from
this base is obscure above and near to the cotton,
then becomes luminous and powerful, and contracting
as it rises, usually ends in a series of forky tongues.
When supplied by an overflowing lamp urged by the
draught of a good chimney, the bright part of the
flame may be from 2-. to 4 inches from the bottom to
the top of the chief tongues of flame ; these latter
having no smoke at their tops ; and the horizontal
section passing through the widest and brightest part
of the flame, will be from f to ^ of an inch above the
burner. It is assumed that this section should coin-
cide with the focal plane of the lenticular bands, or
merely refracting part of the apparatus ; for then
the most powerful rays proceed in a horizontal direc*
tion, and will fall on the sea horizon when the light
has little or no elevation above the sea. All the
light which emanates below that plane, and passes
through the lenticular bands, will be thrown up into
the sk)- above the horizon, but all that emanating
from the great body of the flame above tliat plane,
will be cast over the sea between the horizon and the
shore, doing good service to the mariner.
Tlie selection of this plane, or of the point in the
centre of the flame coinciding with it, which is called
the focal point in respect of the refractors, is of great
importance. By numerous experiments and trials
in France it is considered as ?8 mm. or 1 .05 of an
inch above the burner. Now the brightest horizontal
section of the flame, may be 1.12 inches above the
burner with a well arranged overflowing lamp, or
only 0.75 of an inch above it, with a low flame and
non-overflowing lamp ; and the adjustment in height
of the lamp which would suit the first and send a
fine body of light from the upper part of the flame
over the sea, would, with the latter, send little to the
sea, and the greater part of the light to the sky ; so
that not merely has the adjustment to be attended
to, but ahso the lamp suite<l to the adjustment.
As far as my observation goes, the lamp should
overflow freely, so that only one fourth of the oil
that passes over and through the nicks should be
burnt. It should, in the case of a first order lamp,
have four wicks, and a chimney of glass and iron 6
feet high. As much oil as possible should be burnt
without smoking, for when in a good state the light
is as the oil burnt. The lights at Whitby had not
overflow lamps, and onlj' a certain amount of oil
could be burnt, and a certain height of flame
(lower at the South than at the North Lighthouse)
be obtained. By making the oil overflow and raising
the wick, the flame was raised at the base, but began to
smoke. By virtually lengthening the chimney, through
the application of paper valves, the whole flame was
raised both at the base and at the summit, and the com-
bustion very greatly improved, and tliat contiuuouslv.
But the nd ustnu'iit of the optical jiart of the appa-
ratus fit for the one state of flame woidd not be fit for
REPORTS, frC. BY PROFESSOR FARADAY.
91
the other. Being examined in tlie manner proposed
by the Commission, if the combustion were low, the
ray proceeding from the eye to the horizon would be
mucii too liigh in the flame, whereas with a full and
proper flame, it might pass in the best direction ; for
ilie ditl'ercnce in level of the brightest sections of
two such flames may be as much as f of an inch,
and every diminution in the good condition of the
flame, whether from the construction of the lamp or
inattention, tends to rob the flame at the upper or sea
supplying part.
In respect of the reflectors circumstances are
different. The whole of the flame radiates light
towards each of the upper reflectors. If tlie eye be
so placed (as in the Royal Commission process), as
to see the horizon through the flame, in the middle of
one of the reflecting prisms, then all the flame above
that line will throw its light into the sky, and only
that part below the line will throw its light on to
the waters. Hence the line through the flame, or
rather through its projection at the reflector, should
go through a bright and abundant part of it, and
should also leave as much as possible of the flame
below that line, since that is the part which radiates
light to the sea ; i.e., the observer's ray should be
taken as far back towards him, and as far up, as is
consistent with a good line of flame for the horizon,
and then the reflector ought to be adjusted, so as to
throw this light which has reached it, onward in the
right direction. As regards the upper reflectors,
generally a point in the centre of the flame, 1.55
inches above the burner, is from careful experiment
considered as that which gives the best result, and is
called the focal point for the upper reflectors, being
common to all.
In respect of the lower reflectors, matters are very
uiflerent. The burner and cottons cut off much of
tlie light of the flame from them. With the best
flame one half of the light is thus lost, and with a
low flame only a fourth or a fifth may pass to them
to be utilized. The line of sight should, as regards
the observer, be taken as far forward, and up, as is
consistent with its passing through a bright part of
the flame ; for here again it is the part of the flame
below this which sends light to the sea, whilst the
part above casts its rays into the sky. In the French
experience and practice, not one focal point but
several foci are taken for the different reflecting
prisms. These are points in a vertical line in the
centre of the flame, tlie lowest focus is for the upper
reflector, and the highest for the lower reflector, and
they are respectively at the following heights above
the burner, 38, 42, 47, 53, 60, and 68 millimeters.
The lamp, optical apparatus, and adjustments which
I have referred to, have had reference to a liorizontal
line ; and it is so, that nearly all the apparatus made
in or for England have as yet been so constructed ;
but the sea horizon does not correspond with a line
horizontal at the lighthouse, it forms an angle with
it, and tliat so much the greater as the light is higher
above the level of the sea. At the North Foreland
the two make an angle of about 14'. 2, and at Whitby
of about l6'.5. Hence, if the chief ray of light be
sent horizontall)', it will pass over the sea and be
wasted ; and, indeed, more light with it, even the 16'. 5
seconds, which ought to fall on the sea. This con-
dition is .seen at the Whitby lighthouses by the
Commissioners' mode of examination a little modified.
To correct this error for the lenticular bauds, it
would be sufficient to raise the lamp an equal number
of minutes, (about \ of an inch for Whitby); but such a
proceeding would increase the error for the reflectors
both above and below, and can only properly be met
by instructions to the maker of the apparatus at
first.
The French Authorities only take account of this
difference between the sea and true horizon when
the height of the light is 60 meters (about 200 feet)
and upwards above the sea. For my own part I do
not see why it should not be taken into account for
an heip;lit of 50 feet and upwards. Twelve or thirteen
ivr
j'ears ago the Lundy Light had its chief rays sent to
the sea horizon, and I made an instrument which was
used by Mr. Wilkins for the proper adjustment of
tlie reflectors. Since then the reflectors have been
changed for others on the catadioptric principle, and
these have their rays directed horizontally as at first,
and the same rule has held ever since. Mr. Chance
tells me he is now constructing apparatus with the
rays directed to the sea horizon.
Cases may arise where a high light, not being a
leading light, might better have its chief ray sent,
not to the extreme sea horizon, but some intermediate
distance, where in hazy weather the light might
require to be in some degree concentrated. Such
cases are nautical in their nature, but if they occur,
instructions should be given to the maker beforehand,
since the correction or adjustment cannot properly be
made afterwards.
The first application of a new and searching
method of examination, not applied until after the
workmen have been fitting and handling the heavy
parts of the apparatus in the laiithorn of the light-
house may discover either derangements of the whole,
or of parts. From the expressions of the makers,
M. Sautter and Mr. Chance, I understand that these
can be rectified in apparatus already erected, and
can be prevented in apparatus to be made hereafter,
so that the test proposed makes no undue claim on
the manufacturer.
The Royal Commission when at Whitby, pointed
out certain deficiencies in the illumination of the sea ;
and the waste upon the sky of a portion of the light
which the lamps sent to the glass apparatus, both
results being indicated by the mode of day examina-
tion. The lower reflectors especially appeared
inoperative, not merely because only a little light
could in any case fall upon them, but because, if a
good lamp had been in the centre, the adjustment
of the reflectors was out. A like condition of matters
was indicated when at the North Foreland.
Of the two lights at Whitby within 258 yards of
each other, the .North Light lamp is much better than
that at the South Light ; it gives a higher flame and
burns more oil, and the appearance at sea corresponds
to this difference. But besides that, there are
differences in adjustment. An excursion to sea at
night on the 9th was made, and at a given signal the
whole of the lenticular band of the North Light was
covered up, only the reflectors being left, to compare
with the whole of the South Light as a standard.
In this state the North Light was nearly equal to the
South Light in brilliancy, and in certain positions of
the ship was quite equal to it. The light was thus
covered up and uncovered asrain, twice, and the
observations were made at distances of four and seven
miles. They showed that the upper reflectois at thi-<
house were well adjusted to cast the light upon thj
sea. Here, therefore (at Whitby), it appears to me
it would be best to make any proposed changes, for
they could be carried out at the South Lighthouse bv
Mr. Chance, the maker of the apparatus, who was
present and who understands every point in the matter,
and the North Light could be left as a standard bv
which to estimate the improvement gained.
I am persuaded that the condition and character of
the lamp has a most important influence over the
results that have been and are to be acquired. Some
persons call a flame 3^^ inches high, which I and
others would consider as only 2^ or 2 inches in the
ert'ectual part. Some persons count from the top of
the burner to the top of the tongues of flame, whereas
the bright luminous part of the flame often begins 4
of an inch above the burner, and as a body, ceases,
it may be an inch or even two inches beneath the top
of the longest smokeless tongues. The difl"erence ic
the consumption of oil at the difft^rent liirhthoiises
shows the preat diversit}' existing amongst the flames
of different lamps; to which, if one common standard
of adjustment in respect of the optic apparatus be
applied, it must as often be wrong as right. It appears
to me that the first thing is to have an excellent and
92
APPENDIX TO KEPORT OX LIGHTS, Bt'OYS, AND BEACONS:
constant lamp, and that all lighthouses of the same
oriler shouhl have a lamp of tlie same qualily ; — that
the glass chimney employed should have a gradually
rounded shoulder and not a sharp square one, which
greatly disturbs the direction of the light ; — that
■when the best form has been attained it should be
adhered to ; — and that the glass and iron chimney
tosetlier should he continuous for 6 feet. Then the
practicable constant size and condition of the flame
of such a lamp should be determined, and a general
gautrc and measure of tlie bright part of it and its
position in relation to the burner, be supplied to each
lighthouse (which could easily be done by an outline
drawing on open wire gauze, or otherwise , that the
keeper may report whenever the lamp falls short of its
required duty. Having such a lamp it should be
ascertained whether the foci for the adjustment of the
optical apparatus at present adopted are the b 'St for
it, as the French Authorities believe, or whether they
could he advantageously altered ; and then apparatus
constructed in future should be made in conformity
thereto, and finally tested in their place by the Koyal
Commission process.
If Mr. J. Chance were authorized to procure such a
lamp for the South Whitby Liglithouse (that is, a
lamp which being excellent could be easily and
certainlv repeated), and were then to adjust the optic
apparatus to it, the result could easily be tested by
a comparison with the unaltered Xorth Light : but
it would be desirable to be able to ascertain separately,
as far as may be, the etfect due to the improved
lamp, and that due to the re-adjustment of the
glass.
With respect to the North Foreland Lighthouse,
M. Sautter, the manufacturer, met the Royal Com-
mission and the Trinity Board there, and heard atul
saw all that passed. I understood him to admit freely
the principle advocated by the Royal Commissiim,
but to assert that the apparatus was in perfect ad-
justment for a ^ro/jcr /««);j. Setting up the gauges
at the burner, according to the focal places assumed
and adopted in France, the apparatus, with the ex-
ception of one or two prisms, certainly was in beautiful
adjustment to them. For my own iiart, I am of
oiiiniou that in relation to the generality of lamps
as 1 have seen them burning, the foci (at least of
the lenticular part) are taken too high. The chief
focus at the North Foreland has been placed 28
millimetres above the burners. As I saw the lamp
burning on the evening of Weduesday the 8th instant,
and the keeper said it was in its right and u^ual
state, the chief plane of light was not above 22 milli-
metres above the burner ; and if account be taken of
the dip of the sea horizon, which is here about 14'. 2,
the burner ought to be raised on that account -t
millimetres more, making the distance below the focal
]dane 18 millimeters only instead of 28. If, however,
the lamp were raised enough for the correction of this
dilference, it would greatly throw out of adjustment
both the upper and lower reflectors.
M. Sautter is of opinion that the apparatus requires
no adjustment, but is correct tor a proper overflow
lamp. He has full confidence in the French autho-
rized foci. He is, however, ready to raise the lam])
and to readjust the reflecting pri>ms to any degree
the Trinity House may require. Though I think that
the foci may perhaps be altered with advantage, and
intend making an investigation of their jilaees whiii
a good standard lamp is employed, if the Trinity
Board desire it, 1 am not prepared to go hastily in
opposition to the conclusions carefully drawn from
theorv, experiment, and long practical application by
the authorities in France ; and, theretbre, am of
opinion that if JIM. Sautter and Wilkins place a
proper lamp in the lighthouse, and leave it and the
optical apparatus in that state of adjustment which
the former approves of, and will be responsible for,
the determination of any iurthcr change there, rany
rrniain until alter the efiect has been aseerlained of
the alterations at Whitby, the ehaugeu at the North
Foreland itself, and the re-examination of the places
of the foci.
(Signed) M. F.vkaday.
Roval Institution,
i6th August 1860.
Report ox Focal Foists.
Royal Institution, Isi September, 1860.
Ix reference to the examination (proposed at the
end of my report of the 16th August 1860) of the
focal points heretofore adopted in France and also
in this country, I have to state that from consider-
ations founded upon the size of a good lamp flame, I
came to the conclusion that the focal point for the
lenticular or dioptric part was right, or very nearly
so, but that those- adopted for the upper and lower
reflectors were much too low. Those for the lower
reflectors may be represented by a common intersect-
ing point, 10 mm. above the burner, and 48 mm. from
the axis on the side towards the reflectors. My first
judgment was to alter this point, by raising it so that
it should be 20 mm. al)Ove the burner, and oO mm.
from the axis. Mr. James Chance invited me to see
two fine first-class lights for Russia, one of which,
being a fixed light, he had of his own judgment
and experience, adjusted to foci difterent to the
above. I found the effect of this alteration to be
very excellent, and I found, moreover, that his num-
bers and mine were so near to each other as to render
them, in effect, coincident. I consider the result,
therefore, a full practical confirmation of the numbers,
and I do not hesitate to recommend this alteration for
the adoption of the Trinity House.
With regard to the upper reflectors, my preliminary
judgment was for a far greater change. The French
authorities (which we in England have thus far
followed) is for a common focus for all the upper
reflectors placed in the axis of the flame, and raised
38 ram. above the burner. I think the common focus
ought to be 27 mm. above the burner, and 32 mm.
from the axis on the side from the reflectors. I have
endeavoured experimentally, with a good lamp, to
establish or correct this estimate, and my results gave
a point 30 mm. above the burner and 32 mm. aside
from the axis as an excellent place ; but I desire to
carry out this change upon a whole panel of upper
reflectors before I recommend it finallv to the Trinitv
Board.
(Signed) M. Faraday.
To P. H. Berthon, Esq.,
&c. &c. &c.
Report on Experiments at ^Messrs. Ciiascf.'s
Works and at Wiiitcy, in relation to focal points.
I HAVE been to Birmingham, and worked for
two days with Mr. James Chance upon the determi-
nation of the best focal points for the upper refleetrng
prisms. 1 still see reason to expect much improve-
ment by the change referred to in my Report of the
1st instant, and now propose to carry out that change
experimentally at Whitb}'.
For this purpose I propose (as before) that the
North \Miitby Light be left untouched for a standard.
That Mr. J. Chance provide for the South Light a
good overflow lamp, with a continuous chimney 6 feet
in length from the bottom of the glass, and adjust it
so that a ray from the sea horizoti passing through
the middle of the lenticular zone shall intersect the
axis of the lamp at a point 2Snmi. above the burner.
That the lower reflecling prisms of all the four octants,
save the third, counting from the north, be adjusted
to the sea horizon, from a focus 20mm. above the
burner and oO nmi. from the lamp axis towards the
reflectors. That the upper reflecting prisms (save
those of octant No. 3) be adjusted to the sea horizon,
but from diflereut foci ; the north jianel or No. 1,
to a focus 2()mm. above the burner and 30 mm. from
the lamp axis, on the side from the reflecting prisms ;
panel No. 2, to a focus 28 mm. above the burner.
KEPORTS, &C, BY R0FE3S0R FARADAY.
f)3
and 30mni. aside ; the south panel, or No. 4, to a
focus 28n]ni. above and 'lOinm. aside. The octant
No. 3, to have both the up|)er and lower rcflectinj:;
prisms adjusted by the French foci, aud not to the
sea horizon but to the true horizon.
I then propose to go to sea at night time, and ex-
amine the effect of these different adjustments at
distances up to 18 or 20 miles, moving on some
such course as that a plan of which is herewith sent
(marked P, see diagrams, next page), that the eft'ect
of each adjustment may bo observed and compared
with the North Light ; and I propose that at the ex-
treme distance the lenticular baud shall be screened
off so that in returning the oiJect of the reflecting
prisms o«/// shall be seen and compared, the northern
light still remaining unchanged.
This sea trip will probably decide ihe best arrange-
ments, but if cause appears for trial of any other foci,
or any other arrangement, such arrangements can be
made in a day or two, and a second night examination
at sea be made.
The expense incurred by the experiments at Bir-
mingham, by those now recommended at Whitby, and
for apparatus I have had occasion to order, will pro-
bably not exceed 300 pounds.
I have, &c.
(Signed) M. Faraday.
Royal Institution,
14th "September 1860.
REroRT on Experiments at Whitut in relation to
the FocAi. Points of Lighthouse ArrARATUs.
The experiments referred to in the report of the
14th of September have now, by the authority of the
Trinity House, been carried out, not only in London
and Birmingham, but also at Whitby, and the Deputy
Master, with certain of the Brethren, have there
entered into an examination of the results.
The South Light at Whitby was inferioi-, on the
occasion of the former visit, to the North Light,
though both lamps were of the same construction.
That in the North house was left unchanged, to serve
as a standard. That in the South house was changed
for one with four wicks, and a plentiful overflow, and
the light it now gives is not merely considerably more
than before, but more than that of the North Light.
It has burnt well from the first. The average pro-
portion of oil consumed in a fortnight is 1.5 pints for
the South Light, and 13 pints for the North Light
per 12 hours. These quantities accord with the pro-
portion of light which they really give.
In reference to the focal changes and adjustments
for the experiments, the following arrangements were
made. There were four equal octants or eights of
glass apparatus in the Whitby South Lighthouse,
■vtith a central lamp to the whole. Each had its
three parts ; the lenticular band, the upper, and the
lower reflectors. The lenticular part is the most
powerful, the upper reflectors come next, and the
lower reflectors are last. The adjustment is made,
first, by the elevation of the lamp for the lenticular
band, and after that by the position of the prisms for
the reflector part. The lenticular part is (in the
Whitby case) adjusted for all the octants at once.
The French focus for this part has been adopted,
namclv, 28 mm. above the burner, but the French
authorities send the chief ray on a horizontal level for
a light of such a height as Whitby, whereas I have
sent it down to the sea horizon. No. 3 octant was
selected to represent the French adjustment, but it
was impossible, whilst regulating the lenses of the
other octants, to separate this from them, so that it
had an advantage in the comparison as respects this
lens part : — as to the reflectors, however, the focus
(or common focus) for the upper set is 38 mm. above
the burner in the axis of the flame, and 9 mm. up and
50 aside for the lower set. These were adjusted
M
accurately in the lighthouse to the fnie horizon or
dead level.
The other octants had each a pair of common foci
for the reflectors, as follows : —
No. 1 (d) 20 mm. up and 30 aside upper reflectors
and (i) 20 up and .50 aside lower reflectors. {See
wood cut, page 94. )
No. 2 (e) 28 mm. up and 30 aside upper reflectors
and (i) 20 up and .50 aside lower reflectors.
No. 3 (g) 38 mm. up and 0 aside ujiper reflectors
and (k) 9 up and 50 aside lower reflectors (French).
No. 4 (h) 23 mm. up and 40 aside upper reflectors
and (k) 9 uj) and 50 aside lower reflectors.
The octants 1, 2, and 4 had their adjustments made
to the sea horizon.
The intention of all these arrangements was to
discover and establish (what was expected on prin-
ciple) that much light, hitherto thrown up into the
sky, might bo disposed of on the sea between the
distance and in shore, without any diminution of the
light on the sea horizon ; and that if particukr regions
in certain directions short of the horizon required an
especial amount of light, what special or common foci
were proper for such a purpose.
The night sea voyage was so arranged that bj- turning
the apparatus the various octants (with ail the light on)
could be observed at different distances as the ship went
out, the effect of the change from the one to the other
being remarked, and at the same time a continual
comparison with the unchanging North Light being
made. On returning towards laud the lens part of
all the octants was blinded, so that a like comparison
of the reflectors without the fojjses could be made over
the same series of distances.
When in shore, i.e., about a mile or a mile and a
half ofl', the octants 1, 2, and 4 surpassed the French
octant, as was expected ; the same effect continued
when further out, but diminished in proportion. At
10, 12, and 14 miles out the difference between the
octants diminished, but the French octant never sur-
passed No. 2 or No. 1, and v.'as, as some thought,
rather beneath them. The constant North Light was
most important in helping to settle these differences.
When the lenticular bauds were screened off", the
reflector bands alone gave bright light, but there
were differences of the same kind as those already
described, though greater in proportion.
Every one present made their observations for
themselves, but, I believe, with a like result. I had
expected No. 2 to be a best if not the best arrange-
ment, and I am happy to believe the Deputy Master
and Brethren came to that conclusion, .since they
directed that it should be the type and pattern of
adjustment for all the octants of both the Whitby
Lighthouses.
Like observations to those just described had been
made on shore, and with the like result, but we had
not then the same advantage of observing at very
long distances, nor that of comparing with the stan-
dard North light.
On the Monday we wrought at the Lighthouse for
the purpose of verifying or correcting the focus for
the lower reflectors. Mr. James Chance, in making
the adjustments, found that numbers varying some-
what from tliose I had given, and even more fiom the
French numbers, caused the rays to be more parallel ;
and, as they were to supply the sea horizon, such
parallelism would be an advantage. The numbers
were (i.) 25 mm. up, and -10 aside. (These numbers
w-ere used on the night of the sea observations.) By
trial I became satisfied of the reality of the advantage,
and recommend these numbers to be adopted for the
lower reflectors.
All the time we were at Whitby (eight or nine
days) Jlr. Chance and myself were occupied in learn-
ing, practising new methods of adjustment and cor-
rection, and using new instruments ; and I cannot say
too much in thanking Mr. Chance for the earnest
and intelligent manner in which he has wrought with
me in the experiments, working and thinking every
3
94
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
point out. The method of adjustment is now so
perfect that the authorities can hardly require more
accuracy than the manufacturer can ensure. The
Trinity" House may direct at its pleasure that the
light of one part "of an apparatus .shall be thrown
chietlv in one direction, as the sea horizon, and that
of another part in another relative direction, as nearer
to the coast, and I have no doubt tliat if the electric
li<rht or any other of the compressed intense illumi-
nations bo hereafter adopted, ihe principles and
methods of adjustment now devised and carried into
practice will prove of very great and special ad-
vantage.
Eoyal Institution, (Signed) M. Faradat.
19th October 1860.
Position of the experimental common foci for
the Upper and Lower Refiecto:'S supposed to be
situated on the left-liand side of the ilame repre-
sented in tlie figure.
The words " common focus " are intended tc
exin-ess that point from which the rays which lie in
a plane passing through it and the axis of the flame and
apparatus, and also through the middle of tlie pieces
of glass associated in one panel (as of the upper or
lower reflectors) shall be made by adjustment to pro-
ceed to any given spot, as for instance a point on the
sea horizon.
(b) The burner, from which the
heights of the foci are set off.
(c) The cotton.
(f) The bright part of the flame.
(a. a) The axis of the flame from which
tlie side distances are mea-
sured.
(r>) 20 millimetres \\\\ 30 mills, aside.
(e) 28 „ 30
(g) 3S ,. 0 „
(ri) 2S „ 40
(i) 20 „ ->0
(k) 9 ,, 50
(l) 2.5 „ 40 „
Report on the South LiGHTnorsE at "WHiinr.
Roval Institution.
20th" November 1860.
The adjustment of this Lighthouse has been
completed by Mr. James Chance according to the in-
structions received i'roni the Trinity House: — the len-
ticular part from a common focus 27 or 28 mm. above
the l)urnrr, the ujijier reflectors from a common focus
28 mm. up and 30 aside, and the lower reflectors
from a common focus 25mm. up and 40 aside; the
mean ray being sent to the sea horizon. The only
exception is in the north lenticular panel, the .sea
horizon focus of which is 2.) mm. above the burner.
The present condition of the experimental inves-
tigation of the lenticular part of the apparatus makes
menat sorry for this circumstance.
The character of the lamp and its flame is most
essential. The latter ought to be well watched and
cared for. I find it very difiieult to devise a sure
check on tlie attendance. A pint and a half (or
somewhat more) of oil ought to be burnt every hour
in a first order himp with a brilliant flame ; but it is
diliicult to found an eftcctual check, either upon the
i|Mantit)' of oil which disappears, or upon the time
of the keeper'.-! visits to the lamps.
I have not seen the lighthouse since the adjust-
n-ents were made, but tluy were made by Mr. James
Chance himself, and I have the fullest trust in him.
I enclose his report.
Kverything thus far cnpifirms me in the opinion
that what the Trinity House has done in this case
has been done well ; that every future case can be
considered in relation to the adjustments necessary
for it from the very beginning, and that that adjust-
ment can be carried out with certainty.
(Signed) !M. Faiuday,
Report of Alterations made in the Dioptric
Apparatus at the South Ligiituouse at Whitby.
Glass VTorks, near Birmingham,
17th iS'ovember ISfiO.
1. Ileifihl of the lump in relation to the refractors.
The lenticular panels have not a common focal
plane ; and as I bad no authority to readjust the
lenses, the lamp has been so placed that 28 mm. is
the maximum distance of the burner below the sea
horizon focus of any retracting panel.
The 2d, 3d, 4th, and 5th panels, counting from
the north, have their respective sea horizon foci from
27 mm. to 28 mm. above the burner, whereas the
1st panel has its sea horizon focus onlv 2.5 mm.
above the burner.
I doubt not that this last panel is better placed for
sending the brightest light to the sea horizon than
the other three (thougli not intentionally).
[^To face juirjc 94.]
KeI'Lkctor Foor.
Upper Reflectors : —
1 . 20 up 30 aside, new.
2. 28 up 30 aside.
3. 38 up 0 aside, French.
4. 28 up 40 aside.
Lower : —
5. 11 up 48 aside, French.
6. 20 up 49 aside, new.
Beport of Experiments at Whitby, \9th October 1860.
REPORTS, &C. BY PROFESSOK FARADAY,
95
The due position of the burner, both vertically and
horizontally, is defined by the intersection of two
wires or strings to be passed and stretched
diametrically through two pairs of holes fixed per-
manently for that purpose on the uprights of the
apparatus.
2. Upper Reflectors. — The sea horizon focal lino
of each prism has been made to pass through a point
28 mm. above the burner, and 30 mm. behind the
axis cf the system.
3. Lower Reflectors. — The sea horizon focal line
of each prism has been made to pass through a point
25 mm. above the burner, and 40 mm. before the
axis.
4. Lamps. — The south lighthouse is at present
provided by me teiiiporurHi/ with two good mechan-
ical four wick lamps, and the requisite supplj^ of
surplus burners, 8jc. &c. I purpose, however, sending
ultimately two pressure four-wick lamps, as I prefer
the greater simplicity of construction of this kind of
lamp.
(Signed) Jajies T. Chance.
Memoeakdltji.
The metaUlc reflectors at the South Whitby light
are not being used at prese7it m consequence of the
injury which the reflected heat of the flame, now so
much increased, causes to the burner. This is a
matter for future investigation.
(Signed) J, T. C.
To Professor Faraday,
&c. &c.
Eeport of Experiments at Birmingham on the
Focal Points of the Lenticular Panel of a
Fixed First Order Lighthouse Apparatus.
Eoyal Institution,
3d December 1860.
I have been engaged at Birmingham for three da3's
(26tb, 27th, 28th November) with Mr. James Chance,
in ascertaining for each particular rib of such a panel
as that referred to above, the best point or points in
relation to the burner from which the rays should
issue, that the maximum illumination might be at the
horizon ; and also testing by practice the method pro-
posed by Mr. J. Chance of adjusting the ribs to each
other and to the lamp, so that they should coincide in
their action.
A fixed light lenticular panel consists of a chief
broad middle band, and of other bands or ribs above
and below it, forming two groups, generally nine in
each. These, when associated in the panel frame,
have, according to the accepted rule, their common
focus at 28 mm. above the burner of the lamp.
The relation of the flame and burner to the upper
and lower parts of the lenticular panel is the same in
kind, though not in degree as their relation to the
upper and lower reflectors. Thus, the opaque burner,
which hides much of the flame from the lower reflec-
tors, also hides flame from the lower part of the len-
ticular panel, though not in the same degree ; but as
the lenticular panel is a very chief part of the appa-
ratus, any desirable correction which can be made
amongst its parts, if possible, becomes of importance.
Using a flame such as that represented in the
report of the I9th October l^'GO, in conjunction with
a panel of the kind described, and casting the light
passing through each rib separately in a perfectly
horizontal direction, we found that the best focal point
for the middle or chief rib was 20 mm. above the burner
at the axis ; that the upper ribs, though varying one
from another, might have the same points of 20 mm.
taken for their average or common focus ; and that
the lower ribs required much higher focal points in
the axis, varying from about 18 to 30 mm. above the
burner, all of v.hich might be referred to a common
focus, 11 mm. up and o6 mm. aside towards the
panel.
M
Supposing that these numbers (or any other) were
determined upon, then the possibility of adjusting the
parts of the panel to each other came to be con-
sidered ; without which possibility it would not, he
right for the authorities to require that a fini?hed
panel should be subject to examination by the foci-
meter, in relation to such given points. The ribs of
a lenticular panel cannot be adjusted to each other by
any rotation of them on a horizontal axis, as is the
case with the ribs of a reflector panel, but only by
elevation or depression in respect of each other ; and
now Mr. Chance proceeded to show me, how, by
ascertaining the best focal point for each rib and
their relation to the focal point of the great central
rill, he ascertained how much they were in error ;
and then what proportion of glass would require to
be removed from the broad bearing surface of this or
that rib to bring the whole into nearest approximation
to the desired position. This he carried into effect
with the panel which we had had under examination,
and which had been constructed in the ordinary way,
and without any particular view to such a correction ;
and the consequence was that a panel was produced,
which, when set up with the focimeter upon the
burner at the numbers given above, and a small flame
upon the distant (107 feet) dead level for each rib,
gave a perfect practical result. The space between
the green and red light was the part of the flame
observed, and the error for any rib was not more than
1 mm. except in two cases out of nineteen, in which
it did not exceed 2 mm. AVhen the great lamp was
lighted the effect was in accordance with the expected
result. The coincidence of all the rays in one common
maximum could only be observed at a great distance,
i.e., at the dead level horizon ; but each rib could be
examined for itself c^ud for the dead level of that
rib.
It must be thoroughly understood that the focal
numbers have relarion to the flame of the great lamp.
As before stated, the higher and more powerful the
flame, the greater height should the focal distances
be above the burner, but even with a very high
flame we do not find that the focal point of the middle
belt and upper ribs can be raised higher than 23 or
24 mm. above the burner, without sending the
brightest light to the sky. The character and size of
the flame differ very much at times, and even with
the same flame persons differ very much in their
estimate of its magnitude, and the place of its
brightest part. We have taken a flame corresponding,
as far as I can judge, with that figured in the report
of the 19th October 1860. It is easy to obtain a
higher flame by close attention and for a short time;
but I do not think that a higher one is often sustained
in lighthouses.
In respect of the " Smalls " light, therefore, I
recommend a focal jjoint for the central and upper
ribs of the lenticular panel of 20 (or 21) mm. above
the burner; and for the lower ribs a point 11 mm.
up and 36 mm. aside in relation to the dead level,
and a further correction of 3 mm. for the dip to the
.sea horizon.
The final examination of an optic apparatus for
lighthouses can only be carried on, with the degree
of accuracy which I have described, at the manufac-
tory, or at a place arranged with all appliances for
the purpose, or at the lighthouse (when in pUce)
when there is a gooa clear sea horizon. In the ca;e
of the ■' Smalls " no difficulty will occur since the
apparatus is already in the hands of Messrs. Chance.
Perhaps it may be agreeable to the Trinity House
to be informed that the changes proposed now and
formerly are all in accordance with observations made
by the A.stronomer Royal at Messrs. Chance's in the
beginning of the year, and which he communicated to
me personally in April last.
(Signed) M. Fakaday.
3d December 1860.
96
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHT?, BUOTS, AND BEACONS :
Korth Foreland Light,
Tu r. II. Ecrthou, E^q. 27tli August 18(j0.
Sir,
I bog with great respect to make the following
report njion the four-wick burner and pressure lamp
now in use at this station : — ■
To the inquiries of committees at various visits as
to the height at which the flame could be maintained,
the lightkeepers have not been able to return a satis-
factory answer, the flame never having reached the
desired height, although still closely attended to.
Still there were times at which the light burnt much
better than others, and without perceptible cause.
This led to a consideration of the draught throiigit t/ie
burner.
Whereupon the cylinder was lowered a little more,
and a small ])iece of piping placed so as to connect
the pipe of the throttle valve with that immediately
above, thereby imperfectly forming one continuous
piece six feet four inches high, through which the
draught ascends from the burner.
Tlie efli-'ct of this was soon evident, the flame,
under the control of the condenser or throttle valve,
was continued at un average height of at least 3i
inches, probably nearer 4 inches, with no tendency to
smoke, consuming 3 pints more oil than on the
previous night, and although necessarily requiring
close attention, not that very anxious attention which
it has heretofore. This was iirst tried on the night
of the 22d, and continued up to the present time
with the same result, although the trial is an imper-
fect one.
I have, &c.
(Signed) Jas. Ciiai'MAX.
Extract of Letter from Messrs. Cua.xce, dated
6th December 1860.
'• "We bi-g lo acknowledge your letter of the .jth
instant with its enclosure, and to assure you that wo
.shall at once proceed with the adjustment and con-
struction of the apparatus for the Smalls Light, in
conformity with Professor Faraday's recomuiendation
and with your desire."
HePOUT UX TUE SMALT.S An-AIJATUS.
lioyal Institution,
gjij^ 30th January, 1861.
I wext on Monday last to the manulactory of
Messrs. Chance at Birmingham, to examine the
optical apparatus for the Smalls Light. You arc
aware that in consequence of certain careful and \n-o-
longed experimental inquiries, adjustments altogether
new, both as to their amount aud their nature, have
been determined upon, and put into practice for the
first time in this apparatus.
The manufacturer was instructed to adjust the
various glass pieces by the following foci, the dis-
tances given being the foci distances above the burner
and aside from its axis : —
m.m. m.ni.
L'ppcr reflector bands - 28 up and L'O aside.
Lower „ „ - 25 up and 40 aside.
Lenticular refracting panel —
Central zone and the upper
ribs - - - 21 up and 0 aside.
The lower ribs - - 11 up and 36 aside,
all these adjustments being to the sen horizoti.
The apparatus has been put together by Mr. James
Chance with these adjustments, and being in a proper
place, I had the fociiueter set upon the burner and a
true sea horizon mark placed in the distance.
The whole was so true that the ray proceeding to
the eye through the middle of each piece of class
])assed by the i'ocimeter at the point desired. The
greatest departure was but 2 m.m., and very few of
these occurred. Further, the manner in which, as
the apparatus revolved or the eye was moved about,
the object at the horizon passed laterally from one
panel to another, or vertically from one rib to another,
showed the perfection of the adjustment of each
individual piece by the harmony and consistencj- of
the whole, though there were above 300 pieces of
glass associated together.
At night the lamp v/as lighted and observed from
the distance ; the results accorded perfectly' with the
anticipations. As the head was raised or lowered each
piece of glass showed its maximum effect at the right
place, its light coming in or going out as it should do in
relation to the distant horizon ; and I think that, as
i'ar as regards the system of adjustment, the power of
carrying it into effect, and finally of examining its
correct application, everything is proved to be prac-
ticable, and has here been realised. The essential
points now are to supply a good lamp, and to provide
that it be kept in good order.
In relation to colour and striie tlie glass was very
good.
Captain Bayly and Captain Xisbetwcre present at
the examination.
It is to be remembered that the adjustments made
arc all in reference to the large flame of a lamp having
four cottons, the utmost advantage having been taken
of such portions of the flame as were visible in dif-
ferent directions. These adjustments would not be
the most perfect for a concentrated light, such as the
magneto-electric discharge.
I am, &c.
(Signed) M. Faraday.
P. II. Berthon, &c., &c.,
Trinity House.
DBSERVATIONS BY MR. JAMES CHANCE.
97
OBSERVATIONS BY MR. JAMES CHANCE.
Glass Works, near Birmingham,
Siii, 26th Jaiiu.-iry, 1861.
I RKCEiVED a letter from you last November,
in which you intimated that I might make additions
to the answers, which I had already sent, to certain
questions issued by the Commission for Lights, &c.
I have been too much engaged to avail myself
sooner of this opportunity, but 1 now enclose some
observations concerning the subject to which those
questions refer, and also a table, with the general
theorem for its calcul.ation, in relation to question
No. 3.
This table, as you are aware, has been prepared in
accordance with the suggestions of Captain Ryder,
one of the Commissioners.
T am, &c.
J. F. Campbell, Esq., James T. Chance.
Secretary to the Royal
Commission for Lights, &c.
In April last I replied to some printed questions
issued by the Royal Commission for Lights, Buoys,
and Beacons, in reference to the desirability of certain
data being connnunicated to the manufacturer of
dioptric illuminating apparatus for Lighthouses, upon
his receiving an order.
The attention, which subsequent opportunities have
enabled me to give to the subject of that kind of ap-
paratus, has convinced me of the great practical im-
portance of the suggestions implied in those questions.
At that time I assumed that the respective foci of
the dioptric and catadioptric portions, corresponding
to raj's emerging in the * level direction, had been
placed in the best positions in relation to the flame,
and to the wick-holder (or " burner ") of the lamp ;
and that the only question which depended upon the
elevation of the apparatus was, whether or not those
foci should by adjustment be made to become in all
or some cases the sea-horizon foci.
The sanction of long usage, combined with the
highest scientific authority in the first instance,
justified me in making that assumption.
No one, however, could inspect an apparatus
adjusted according to the received focal arrangements,
in relation to the lamp, without being struck with the
large proportion of light which was thrown above the
level direction, and still more so above the sea-horizon
direction, not only by the two catadioptric portions of
the light, but even by the dioptric one. But, in expla-
nation of this apparent waste of illumination, it wa,s
urged that the customary focal adjustments, although
they might cause the diversion of so much light
upwards, were the best ones for transmitting the
beams from the most effective sections of the flame
in the direction of the sea horizon ; and th.at it was
not even necessary to make an allowance for the dip
of the horizon.
In the spring of last year the Chairman of the
Royal Commission put me into communioa*.ion with
the Astronomer Royal, who on two oceasioMS at that
time visited these works in reference to the cfusstions
"aised by the Commissioners concerning dioptric sea-
■ lights. On one of these visits Professor Airy exa-
mined the directions of the most effective beams of
light proceeding from the diflerent parts respectively
of a first order fixed apparatus, whose focal adjust-
ments in relation to the lamp were for the most part
in accordance with the recognized system ; and for
that purpose he employed a series of posts placed at
* Tlie -word " Icuel" is used to signify the horizontal direc-
tion ; that is, the directionwhich is at right angles to thevertical
axis of the apparatus.
I.
various distances from the apparatus, and having the
level direction indicated upon them.
The observations of Professor Airy on ihat occa-
sion, combined with subsequent experiments, which I
was thereby induced to make, rendered me sceptical
as to the existing system of adjustments for the
larger kind of dioptric lights ; and, shortly after-
wards, in the construction of some first order appa-
ratus for the Russian Government, besides allow-
ing for the dip of the horizon, I departed consider-
ably from the accustomed rules, so far as it con-
cerned the positions of the sea-horizon foci of the
upper and lower series of the totally reflecting
zones. The chief change was made in the adjust-
ment of the lower reflectors, by raising from lOmm.
to 12mm. higher above the burner, than what had
been previously done, the place of intersection of the
axes of the pencils of light transmitted by the succes-
sive zones respectively to the sea-horizon. This
change, while it seemed to benefit decidedly the dis-
tant sea, transferred from the sky to the sea an im-
portant angle of vertical divergence of very effective
illumination. Since that time. Professor Faraday,
on behalf of the Trinity Board, arranged a most
complete set of experiments at Whitby, which, as the
Commissioners are aware, impressed upon the minds
of those who witnessed them a conviction that the
old system of adjusting the upper reflectors, no less
than the lower ones, admitted of considerable modi-
fications.
Professor Faraday and myself have subsequently
been making some experiments upon the adjustment
of the refracting portions of the fixed dioptric appa-
ratus; and, although it would scarcely be suitable for
me to enter here upon the details of those experi-
ments, I may safely assert that they have unquestion-
ably raised doubts concerning the received focal
adjustments of the refractors in relation to the
burner. Those experiments, indeed, quite confirm
the observations made by the Astronomer Royal when
he inspected last spring at these works, on the occa-
sion already referred to, a first order fixed apparatus.
The primary problem, then, is, to determine the
best positions in the flame of the sea horizon foci of
the refracting portion, and of the two reflecting por-
tions, respectively, of the apparatus ; and whether these
positions are to be constant for all elevations of the
lantern, and for all the peculiarities of different
localities ; or whether in any one of the three por-
tions above named the adjustment of the sea horizon
foci in relation to the lamp should be adapted specially
to the elevation of the light and to the peculiar
requirements of the place which has to be lighted.
I use the term sea horizon foci, because I take for
granted that every portion of the apparatus should,
in all cases, be adjusted in reference to the sea
horizon direction and not the level direction. For
the refractors and the lower reflectors it is quite
essential, as I am about to show, to make the adjust-
ments with reference to the sea horizon ; and inasmuch
as there is no practical difficulty whatever in causing
rays of light from any given points in the flame to
emerge from the apparatus in the direction of the sea
horizon quite as accuratelj' as in any other direction ;
therefore, apart from any real advantages to be gained
by thus taking the dip of the horizon into account,
the omission of that correction implies an inexpedient
disregard of accuracy of adjustment generally. It
should also be borne in mind that any error in arriving
at the level direction is as likely to send the light
still more above the sea horizon direction as to bring
it downwards.
The first questions which the manufacturer would
wish to have answered, before proceeding with any
adjustments, would be, what are the special require-
N
98
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AXD BEACONS :
jnents of the particular locality ? Is it desired to
Bend the most effective beams of light to the furthest
•listance, although the mariner might thereby be
deprived of the advantage of light as he approached
shore ? Or is it necessary to illuminate the sea up
to a moderate distance from the Lighthouse, notwith-
standino- that this provision might slightly diminish
the intensity of illumination at and beyond the
horizon ? Or, in the case of a fixed light, is its
intended site to be such, that, within certain points of
the compass, the furthest range of visibility must lie
chiefly provided for ; while within other angles of
the horizontal arc to be lighted the part of the sea
near to shore should have its share of illumination ?
Let us then consider whether any portion of a
vertical divergence equal to the dip of the horizon,
illumiuates nearly three-fourths of that distance
(accurately 0.732). To show, on the other hand,
how little is gained by increased vertical divergence
at the sacrifice of brilliancy at the horizon, it may
be added that an angle of vertical divergence, also
equal to the dip of the horizon, illuminates only a
small fraction of a mile as we approach within one
or two miles or so from the tower.
III. Upper Reflectors. — It is in this portion of a
dioptric apparatus, and generally in this only, that it
is feasible to provide for the illuminatiou of the sea
towards land, by a corresponding adjustment of the
sea-horizon foci, without any serious diminution of
the light received by the distant sea. This circum-
dioptric and catudioptric apparatus could h.ave its stance arises from the relative positions of the fl.amo
adjustments accommodated to the particular circum- and of the reflecting zones, by which there is a con-
stances of its intended destination. For this purpose
it will be convenient to refer separately to each of the
three component parts of a complete light, namely,
the lower reflectors, the middle belt of refractors, and
the upper reflectors.
I. Lower Reflectors. The position of these zones
relation to the burner, which intercepts from them
siderable range due to the breadth of the flame, for
illuminating the sea-horizon effectively, and yet fur
])roviding a large angle of vertical divergence below
the sea-horiion direction.
Undoubtedly there are certain oblique sections of
the flame which would produce, through the respec-
tive reflecting zones, the maximum intensity of illii-
a laro-e iwrtion of the flame, confines their vertical minatiou in the direction of the horizon ; and ii
divergence within so narrow a range, that if they cases where the distant sea alone has to be provided
were lidjusted with reference to the illumination of for, the sea-horizon foci of the upper reflectors should
the sea near to shore, the sea-horizon would, in all
cases except those of a low elevation, receive either
no light at all, or only a very faint one. The best
use, therefore, which can be made of the lower re-
flectors is, to transmit to the sea-horizon the light
from the most brilliant iiarts of the flame, which cor-
respond with the respective zones. These parts lie
within narrow limits, which evidently change their
position according to the height of the flame. The
be placed in those sections resjiectively.
Generally, however, a slight diminution of light
at the horizon will be admissible for the sake of illu-
minating the parts of the sea near to the tower, and
in such cases the positions of the sea-horizon foci in
relation to the burner must depend in some degree
on the intended elevation of the apparatus above the
sea. Sujipose, for example, that light were required
up to one nautical mile in each of the two instances
only practical way is, to choose such a height of of elevations of 1.50 feet and 250 feet respectively.
flame as is likely to be actually maintained, and then The requisite angle of vertical divergence from the
sea-horizon direction downwards would in the former
case be 1° 13' 15'', whereas in the latter one it would
be 2° ti' 15", that is, 53' larger.
There is of course a limit to this angle of vertical
divergence, and accordingly, for high elevations we
to place the sea-horizon foci at the greatest distances
above the burner which are compatible with the
most effective illuminatiou of the sea-horizon by each
of the reflectors respectively.
The choice of these foci may vary slightly with
the differences of optical judgment of difterent per- must be content with the light not approachii
sons • but whatever positions of the foci may be near to the tower, the distance from the tower
determined upon, it is evident that all adjustments
just be made to the sea-
of these lower reflectors m
horizon direction.
II. The Refractors. — The main point, especially
in .the case of a fixed light is, to determine the
briLrhtest sections of the flame corresponding with
the^'middle belt, and all the other refracting bands
above and below respectively ; and then so to adjust
these various refracting parts in relation to the
burner that their respective sea-horizon foci shall be
placed in the corresponding brightest sections of the
flame. These focal positions can only be obtained
by experiment, and they will vary with the height
of the flame and the optical judgment of the ob-
server ; but the limits of variation are confined within
the height of only a few millimetres. One thing,
however, is quite certain, that the sea-horizon foci
which the sea can be illuminated being nearly pro-
portional to the height of the tower for a given size
of apparatus.
I append a table which may be useful in deter-
mining the best positions of the sea-horizon foci of
the upper reflectors for any particular situation and
elevation.
This table was framed according to the suggestions
of Captain Alfred Eyder, R.X., one of the Koval
Commissioners, and is extremely convenient for ex-
hibiting, in addition to the other information which
it aflbrds, the heights in the axis of the flame which
subtend at the middle of the refractors certain angles
of vertical divergence.
I have added the general exiu'essions which connect
the angle of visible dip of any point on the sea for a
given height of tower with the distance of that point
must not be placed below the corresponding brightest from the Lighthouse, in order that the accompanying
parts of the flame, for the sake of increasing the tal)le may be extended as it may he required,
vertical divergence below the sea-horizon direction, In regard to the ada))tatJon of the upper reflectors
for that increment would be very small, whereas the in any degree to the illumination of the sea ne.ar to
loss of liirht at the horizon would be considerable. the tower, it may be argued that such a height of the
The importance of accuracy of adjustment to the flame ought always to bo maintained as will effect
sea-horizon, both of the refractors and of the lower that purpose through the medium of the refractors.
reflectors, is enhanced by the consideration that the
same parts of the flame, within a narrow range (not
exceeding one quarter of an inch even for a high
elevation! such as that of 500 feet), which illuminate
the sea-horizon, also illuminate about three-fuitrlhs
of the whole distance from tlie sea-horizon to the
base of the tower.
In i-eferencc to this inqxirtant consideration, it
mav be useful to rennuk that an angle of verticid
di\'ergence equal to-oni- fourth of the dip of the
liiirizon illuminates (Mie-hall' of the whole distance
from the horizon to the tower ; and that an angle of wl
With that reasoning I entirely concur, but still the
flame will be sometimes allowed to become somewhat
low, and the mariner, on approaching land, might
consequently be deprived of the customary beacon.
Kow the great advantage aftbrded by the upper
reflectors is that the parts of the sea near to land are
illuminated by them, even when the jiame is low, so
that they serve to compensate for the non-eft'ectiveness
of the refractors when the flame is low, as well as to
increase their eftectiveness when the flame is high.
It nun' l>c said that the accuracy of adjustment
wliich is imjilied in the foresoinK remarks is not
OBSERVATIONS BY MR. JAMES CHANCE.
99
generally practicable. There is, however, a plan of
proceeding which removes all difficulties. Before a
single piece of glass is adjusted in its place, the whole
of the metallic framework should be fitted together
just as it will be at its final destination, and the glass
must be adjusted while the framework is in that
state of vltimate completeness. Every part of the
ajjparatus may then be adjusted to the sea-horizon
direction just as accurately as if the glass were being
placed in the frames at the Lighthouse itself, with a
well defined sea-horizon for the object, which, how-
ever, is not in this climate of frequent occurrence.
I doubt, indeed, very much, whether such accuracy
of adjustment would have been practicable in the
ordinary course of manufacture, hart it not been for
the employment of that internal method of inspecting
the direction of light proceeding from an external
object, which was pursued by the Commissioners and
by the Astronomer Royal in the examination of various
Lighthouses during last year, and which I have found
to lie almost indispensable in determining the most
advantageous positions of the sea-horizon foci of the
refractors and reflectors.
A first wder fixed apparatus, which has just been
completed at these works (or the Trinity House, being
intended for the Smalls Lighthouse, was in course of
construction last summer, but, by the direction of the
Elder Brethren, the final adjustments of this appa-
ratus were expressly delayed until December last, for
the purpose of adopting all the latest modifications
which might seem desirable, in consequence of the
various experiments made both here and at Whitby
by Professor Faraday, to which I have alluded. This
apparatus, accordingly, includes the innovations of
adjuslment to which I have referred in the foregoing
observations.
While, therefore, I have now been making addi-
tional remarks in reply to the first three cjuestions of
the Commissioners, my former answer to the fourth
question is not ajiplicable to present circumstances.
James T. Chance.
To find the equation between the distance from the
Tower of any point on the sea and the angle of its
visible dip :
Let C be the light on the tower C E ;
E P Q the sea ;
C T the direction of a ray of light without refraction ;
C m P its actual path ;
C N and PM are horizontal ;
N P and C M are vertical ;
N C T is the visible dip at C of the point P ;
Join C P ;
Let r = radius of curvature of the sea at E ;
N C T = ^ C E =: A C N = .r N P = ^;
y = .r tan S + T P ;
and as T C P is very small,
_ • 08. X-
cos- S r cos-' S
T P = T C P-
because TCP may be taken ■=.
~{sccNo;e)
.-. TP = (-08 -f- -08 tau-S)— =_ .qs —approximately
for such values of 8 as occur in practical questions ;
hence y = x tan S -|- -08 ^
also ^=CE-fEM = A +
2r
therefore x- — "^ x tan S + " '" — o
0-84 0-84
— r tan 5
GV-
:- h 0-,s4
0-84 V 1 V r • tan- 8/
(the positive sign is not required).
At the sea-horizon, where bothvalues of a; are equal,
J _ 2A 0-84 _ Q
r • tan - 8
Let A = visible dip of the sea-horizon
D = distance of the sea-horizon from the tcwer
Then tan A
= y
■>h
0-84
and D =
a / z r h
V 0-84
{'-v/'-(S-,V
Let
sin 6
-— ^ tan 6 • sin— - for finding x from 3
and tan I = -
If 8 be small
'h +
^.0-42)
for finding 8 from x.
0-84 r '^ r-J
5 A
Let 8 = — j-, then a; = i^, that i.s, one half of the
whole distance from the sea-horizon to the tower is
illuminated by an angle of vertical divergence equal
to |th of the visible dip of the horizon.
Again, let J = 2 A, then a- = 2 dA — /| \
.*. D — a,- = 0 • 7320o X D, that is, nearly three-
fourths of the whole distance from the sea-horizon to
the tower is illuminated by an angle of vertical diver-
gence equal to the visible dip of the horizon.
James T. Chance.
A"o/p — I am indelited to the Astronomer Royal for
information as to the correction for refraction. "
N 2
100
APrE>;DIX TO EEPOKT ON LIGHTS, BL'OVS, AXD BEACONS :
--ll
OBSERVATIONS BY MK. JAMES CHANCE.
fOl
=>)
- fl
j[
_g o
^ CO O 00 1^ ^
L
I.I
11
^ o ^ r~ o «
< S,K
S
II ^
is O *^ ^ ^ ,.M
u o
S "=" °S CO n ii
D.O.
60 g
1 ^ S 1^ " ^■
« a
< Q
W [O
o
§
_o g
o g
•.g «
*Ec 'E ■**
wco»/?os«t^^r^oi»^C)r^coaooo«3cooo>o^oocoo<^«if5t-o — ^co
^ 60
aia/cooo-j.o>iooo-it-iNoonmo05C — t^moo-to-n — u^mmxtc".-;
t> (- o
.gj^nn*T|..n!co.^«~i»cDo.mo.--^<NirimmTr.no»t, ec
ll
o i g*
o ^.-,_^._,._^^^^^._._7i<ri(7ic^
o ^
g2
Kii
^
C3 S
■^ 1/1 (U
«
^g§
^QOoo--'(Moeo'oco«r-ot~ot^t-co(Mt^»ntni.oa)(?i»--* — ino^ooc-i
"o bo
■SiS'o
ll
~ r^ 00 OT -^ M 4 o o t» i -^ IN m in to <» o o M n in" tc 00 oC o -t 00 ^' in M c>'
-; -.- — — — ^ — IMIMIM(N(MCq(MnMCOmmmcO^'tTfU3U5tOtO
■sl
rt '^
OJ «
.g
SOTtDO)t^«00(Nt-^00'*00^»n05WeOCSCT»CCTi©»OQO»f^i?)CnOaOOi
S £
^t-ooc350>oO" — <><c<«)nm-*^T).ininintotou5i^t^t^oocimo--CT
«*- c
'gooOO^_--.r^--i-<--.--<.--^.---'---.-.------------;--<NC<IN
O o
■-5| ^.
"3 S
it °
i30(Ni?<'*'00*nt^«)tD-*Ci001inQOC10000ff?Oin-C--'l-— 'OTOtOOl^
tn U3
1) iM oo m i~ o m -n t^ oo o! o> o cs oi 00 t- ID uT -* =•] c CO -^ -t — o I- lo - n CO
1
>
g CD -- CO rf CO t- CO en o r-. CT rf --p m o i~ CO en o r- r>i !^^ CO Tf uj ., oo c= (N
3 CT CT <^^ l^l M M c-i !^! co' cc' n n n n n CO CO CO 4 ^i 4 4 4 4 4 4 -t in o in -o
a
is
«C *^ r;= ^ "rt <
(u a to __, u |{
r§ 71 Cn C -T O X I- -X Sr. " -I- ac 0< ^ — O C-t 00 -* C I- CC C 1- '* CC -?! *- Ol (« O
i^' 0 'i.'S 2 'S .2
S '^ B a o so
ISSSSS?5V;SSSS;?,S?!?!S?;SSS22222U:I;222;2:
■S S ^ .2 " S
a-.sa
B g , a
'^•=|.S'13<
.ooincotDiN«^cocoooo^(Mcoinc^cotoCT!cot^eO'*o^oocif-»n^-tai
. -, O — f? II
i«i-OCKinc;>oooo-ro-fi»0500005t,o-M05in — ooooOToo — CO
M
Distanci
he sea-h
inwards
minated
vertii
angle =
^m — ■no-*0!CO<oOTi-ocor-oco>noo — l-tocn»l.tt-cooo-fo>oo>
S '"'•^ "^ ■» "^ «>' =>' "■' 2 2 2 «'"' ;::"-' 2 2 si's 2 2 2 2;' i ^I's's's 2 2 2
**
1
»
^ occ.iji^^coocoojoO'l'^QOcoin-.j.cococointnr^os'^cocDOiniMt^t^
'o
Hi
S— CI-* MTf <MU5— ^ — CO CO CO CO CO COrt-f COOClr- —
^ OlM-Cl^Ci^^cOOO— ■C0«500^C0OQ0^C0OQ0^C0C000i.0^r^-*t^O
a
„„^„^c^(Mc., ,Dcor5coco-*TfTP^inininm -himcmco-*
•R
4)
HI
-4N -♦?» Hw -+r* H-i
ja t3
^ t^OOI?I^IM-l'CDC»nOt^-*'^(»»^tO^Tj<OTj«OCDOOO<NCl-q'l?100cD
- -rmo — iMco-r — CO-* (NcoiQ — eom^coo — co«<N^ — Tfooco
III
pOOOOOOO-----«-----.«,J.O,IJ,<N«««<NCOCOCO-t
° ^
o ^
£ S
o ,>
ri i
., ciincoroinas^oioco^OOai^.— iMcoinoooiNtoaoiNcoOtfs^^^
n-t
~ inoujinmuj --.Mco^"nior..<ricOTf.o CTcO'*in-.^(NCTco-*'n
1 1
^ (^■*^co»n'Not--*p-iooiniNcst^-*^ooincoot^^^air-»nco^i^co
13 cj
TbZ
^cOTfino rttNiNcotiTfiB — Mcocortin ^ctintji cM^f^o
(D *^
3-g
o 0000>-«^^^r^^rHpH(N(N(N(N<NCTIN(NCOCOCOCOeOCO-^-<ti'<1i»nin
^ .2
H °
i^
,f § ^
^ oi^-d'Ocot^cocooNincicot^oit-.^to.-ii^CTt^coi^C'l
s'i
H!
- <N-im.»(M- OOTfcOINiM-.-- W^TtTfcOCOCNiM
^ o^^oicO'i'Ointot^QOojooiMco-^^incot^xoo^
s^?
-iNcoto --Mco-l'u--,oicOTPL'j«iMco-l'.ni:c^
s«
rt s-3
o ^^-H.-.«^oi<ri'NO»ciiMcococococo.*^'t-^-t-»l'»n»n
.s
...... .
s
"to
a
f:
«t-i s t^
o 9 w
g
2*S
^»O(N-t<D00O(NTfte
co<n«eo>n<N-* os
>
i g5
C
• 1 • • • 1 . I 1 ■ i . I 1 1 1 1 1 , , ,
o
o. ■ „•
> coa»co»nincooi'Cicooo»^tDcct^i^t^eOTj.co^oococo-fTf-c^c^Oi-
^ V °
~co -v ^ ^ ^ ^ co>n<M.* «•» cNTf (NTf -coinco-Sw^ij
0, " .2 <J
^.-cococ>cnoo«^-22222222:2222222;:°°'"^2;;;
1^1
o oocoooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
>
stance frore
e tower of
the sea
horizon
D.
S"°="2::::22222:;:22222i:s::22222gSsi5S^S
•J .c
Q -
« o o
ht abo
eaoft
re of t
paratUi
|§SSgS2Sg§ggSggg2ggSg§egg§SgSgg§
j^ -"-'-"r-.«-.-.-i„«„<niNc|ciNCTCTIMConcO coSxf o
•s " g «
1 a -s s
p. ja
S 3
o -E
ea O
a o
I ®
II
N S
PvEPORT BY MESSRS. I). & T. STEVENSON,
102
The following Kcport was sent by the Commi??ioncvs
of Northern Lighthouses on oth February 1861 :—
Eeport to Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses
on Experiments on Lighthouse Flames, by Messrs.
D. and T Stevenson, Engineers to the Board.
In consequence of the result of the experiments
on lighthouse flames, which were instituted at Bir-
mingham by Mr. Chance, and at which Mr. Thomas
Stevenson, by request of the Royal Commission, was
present, we intimated, on 10th December, our wish
to repeat the experiments which were made by us at
Edinburgh in July last. These showed that with
the lamp 28°"° below the horizontal axis, the larger
portion of the light was thrown lielow the axi.al line,
a result difl'erent from what had previously been as-
certained at Birmingham. It was therefore desirable
that the Edinburgh exi)eriments should be verified,
and we were accordingly authorized by the Commis-
sioners to do so.
After l)eing very much retarded by the occurrence
of unfavourable weather, we have at length succeeded
in getting suitable nights for experimenting. Instead
of again using the annular lens, which was the instru-
meul employed in our former observations, we
thought it better to use the cyliudric refractor as that
instrument had been selected for trial by Mr. Chance,
and in this way the Binuaigham and Edinburgh ex-
periments are rendered comparable, the same kind of
instrument having been used on both occasions.
The result of the experiments just completed li'^s
been a verification of those made with the annular
lens. The following conclusions are deducible from
the four diagrams which accompany this Report, .and
which represent observations that were made with
the burner placed at the French standard height of
28mm below the centre of the refractor : —
1st, The most powerful portion of the luminous
beam" in three of the series of experiments dips 0"^ 30'
below the principal axis or earth's tangent, and in
one of them about 0"^ 47'.
2nd, A large portion of the luminous beam is very
nearly of equal power. The whole of this portion
also dips below the axis.
3rd, Above the axial line the light loses power
somewhat suddenly.
When the flame is of the standard height and form
used in the Northern Lighthouses it does not there-
fore appear to be necessary, even in the highest
dioptric station in Scotland, to raise the burner above
the standard height in order to throw the beam of
strongest light upon the horizon; the strongest light
bein^^in all cases (assuming the arrangement to be
correct) already fully below the horizon, for the level
of the intensest section of the flame averages in these
experiments about f of an inch above the French
standard.
We have furnished the Eoyal Commission with a
copy of the photograph of the Northern Lighthouse
flame, so that they will be able to compare it with
the one used at Birmingham, which being considei--
aV>ly smaller may account for the difleience between
the results of the Birmingham and Edinburgh ex-
periments. (Signed) D. and T. Stevenson.
Edinburgh, oth February 1861.
and burner of the different stations on the sloping
face ot Salisburgh crags were marked by pegs, and
ascertained in different ways, all of wliich gave very
nearly the same results. The methods adopted
were the measurement of the vertical angles by
the theodolite, the ascertainment of the level of
each peg by means of the spirit level ; and lastly,
these results were tested very accurately in the
following manner : — The heights above the burner,
of the images of the pegs, were carefully ascertained
in the lightroom by means of a millimetre scale with
a sliding index, the zero of which corresponded with
the top of the burner, which was carefully set 28™™
below the level of the centre of the refractor. The ob-
servations were made by three independent observers,
and with two photometers of different construction.
Figs. I, 2, 3, and 4, show the different observations,
and Fig. 5 is the mean result. Fig. 6, is a section
showing the relative positions of the apparatus and
the sloping bank from which the observations were
made. It will be observed that in consequence
of the slope there is a slight difference in the dis-
tance of the different points of observation from
the instrument ranging from 1,284 to 1,357 feet, the
maximum difterence being 73 feet. In case this
difference should have affected the results, we tested
the intensity in the same plane at a distance of 1,357
feet, as compared with 1,284 feet, and found that the
difference of intensity at these distances could not be
measured, so that in our observations the variation
due to the sloping face may be disregarded.
It is of course understood that the diagrams refer
solely to the refracting part of the first order fixed
light apjiaratus, and that they do not represent
qudiititative valuations of the difl'erent intensities of
the light, but only show accuratel)' the direction of
the light of maximum iutensit_y, and also the order of
tlic beams of different intensity in the vertical plane.
(Signed) U. and T. Stevenson.
Edinburgh, 26th February 1861.
Continuation of Observations by Mr. J. Chance.
Since my former remarks were written, the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses have kindly sent me a
copy of a report which Messrs. Stevenson had recently
communicated ujion the subject of lamp-flames, aiul which
gives the experimented results obtained by them in reference
to the position of the most illuminating part of the flame.
Those results differ most widely from similar ones pre-
viously ascertained at Birmingham by methods of observa-
tion not the same as those adopted by Messrs. Stevenson.
Even, however, if the same mode of observing the relative
intensities of illumination had been jmrsued in the two
cases, a difference in the respective results would have been
antieijiated, because the flame employed at Edinburgh was
higher than the maximum flame used at Birmingham.
But I am by no means satisfied that the admitted difference
in the two flames accounts for the whole, or even the greater
part, of the discrepancy in the results.
The position of the most effective part of the flame, as
determined at Edinburgh, is at least half an inch above that
ascertiiined at Birmingham with the maximum height of
flame then attainable.
In a first order fixed light lately finished for The Smalls,
the sea horizon focus has been designedly placed in that
part of the flarae,iwhich was assumed to be the most effective,
but which is fifteen milhmetrcs below the position which
the results obtained at Edinburgh would assign as the
brightest part.
.V portion of this distance of 15""". would be due to the
difference between the heights of flame maintained in Scot-
land and England respectively; but I do not believe that
the whole of this discrepancy of the adjustments sanctioned
•: exneriments referred to in the foregoing i" the two countries is to be explained by tlie difference of
1 1 A .1 > o 4- i.'',i;.,i.„..r^l, Tl,^. laniijs and lamp-tlames.
■e made at Arthur s Seat, ^'|;"J;"^Sl';^,^i;",' l 'am very glad to learn that the Trinity House are in-
vestigating thoroughly the question of lamps, and the best
mode of maintaining high flames ; but supposing that
point to be settled, and assuming a given height of wick
and flame as the standard ones, which are to he always, and
everywhere, maintained, there still remains considerable
doubt as to the position in relation to the burner (or wicks
holder), n-hieh the sea horizon focus ouglit to occupy, in
order that the sea horizon may have the brightest illumina-
tion ; and until this problem is conclusively settled, all
ojrtical adjustments of diojrtric apparatus must remain in-
determinate. It seems, therefore, to be of fundamental
importance that measures should be adopted, without delay,
to reconcile the experimental discrepancies which at present
exist.— March 23, 1861. James T. Chance
Note to their Report of oth February 1861, on the
Experiments on Lighthouse Flames, by Messrs. D.
and T. Stevenson, Engineers to the Northern
Lighthouse Board.
The
Report wer
lighting apparatus was placed in a lantern glazed
with plate glass, the instrument employed being a
first-class cylindric refractor, and a four-wick mecha-
nical lamp similar in all respects to those used in the
Northern Lighthouses. The place where the obser-
vations were made was the steeply sloping face of
Salisburgh crags, distant about 440 yards from the
experimental light-room. The observations were re-
peated on several evenings with nearly similar results.
Those shown in the diagram were the last m.adc, and
from greater precision having been attained in the
arrangements, are regarded as in every respect the
most accurate. The positions iu reference to the leus
:ij'
S.1 ^g
■-= ^° S. ~~ 5- ^.
-~ UepressifJTV ^ £lei'atwn.
I ' i. " ' i ' ' I ' ■ i ■ ■ i
%° ^" S. s. " ^=
Depression ^ JiRe^'atLcn
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE.
103
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE.
The following Abstracts have been made from the
Keplies to the Questions circulated by the Cora-
mission, which are as follows : —
No. of
Circular.
Questions
in each.
I.
26
Sent to the three General
Authorities.
II.
19
Sent to Authorities having
Lighthouses.
charge of more Light-
houses than one, so far as
was then known.
II.
20
Sent to Authorities having
Floatinc; Lights
charge of Flo.iting Lights.
in.
58
Sent to Authorities h.aving
charge of Lights ; 184 in
number.
IV.
69
Sent to Authorities having
charge of Floating Lights.
V.
27
Sent to Authorities having
charge of Buoys and Bea-
cons; 184 in number.
VI.
20
Sent to Lloyd's Agents,
184 returns.
VII.
13
Sent to the Mercantile
Marine, 1,000 sent out,
144 returns. See Abstract.
VIIL
36
Sent to Mariners ; about
3,000 circulated ; 793
returns.
IX.
25
Sent to Men of Science,
50 returns.
X.
4
Sent to the same, and to
Manufacturers.
XL
35
Sent to Foreign Govern-
ments, 13 returns.
XIL
1
353
Sent to Steam Companies
whose vessels pass Colo-
nial Lights, 3 returns.
CIRCULAR I.
This Circular is made up from Letters sent at
various times to the three General Lighthouse
Authorities. These were framed as much as possible
so as to ask the same questions in all cases; but, from
the varying constitution of the authorities, the ques-
tions could not be identical, and consequently the
replies vary somewhat in their order. The informa-
tion obtained has been embodied in the Report, and
the details are given in Vol. II.
CIRCULAR IL
LIGHTHOUSES.— (General Return.)
itracts and J. Nttiiie and address of General Light-
'^' house Authority.
Copies of this form were sent to all Lighthouse
Authorities in the United Kingdom whose names
could bo ascertained, and who appeared to have more
Lighthouses than one under their jurisdiction. The
Custom House Authorities furnished a list. The
Board of Trade were applied to, but they could give
no information as to Local Authorities. Tlie returns
will be found at the pages marked opposite to the
questions in the Cii'cular. See Vol. II.
The description of the several Lighthouse Aathor'i- ■^/'stracU and
ties will be found in the Report at page 22, and a ^"'""'a'y-
list of the Local Authorities at page 280, Vol. II.
There are in all 184 Authorities in the United King-
dom having charge of Lights, &c., whose existence
is now known to the Lighthouse Commissioners; but
there are Lights for which there are no returns.
None of the Superintending Authorities had lists of
the Local Authorities, which they are supposed by
the Act of Parliament, in some degree, to superintend;
and the returns are incomplete, partly because the
Lighthouse Authorities were not ascertained at first,
and i)artly because many of them furnished no returns
to the Circulars which were sent to them, though
several pressing letters were in some instances
written on the subject at long intervals.
2. List of Hghthouses under the super-
intendence of this Authority, with a
general Chart showing their positions,
and a special return for each light-
house.
[uestion, and lists prepared by •See Vol. II.
and liepoTt.
See replies to thi
the Commissioners.
See also the published Admiralty list of Lights.
See also the map at the end of Vol. I., on which
the Lighthouses and the Local Authorities are
marked.
3. General principles which regulate the
choice of site for lighthouses.
No general principles regulate the choice of sites
in the United Kingdom ; they are selected as occasion
demands ; and much correspondence has taken place
amongst the Authorities relative to some particular
sites.
The Trinity House choose sites which embrace the
largest arcs of the horizon, and " best indicating the
dangers of the locality."
The Scotch Commissioners refer to a memorandum
by Mr. Stevenson, which states certain general prin-
ciples ; but the Scotch Authority acts, subject to the
Trinity House and the Board of Trade. The prin-
ciple of the Ballast Board is to select the most salient
points, but that Authority is subject to the same
control. The Local Authorities cannot act upon any
general principles.
In France, see page 669, Vol. IL, there is a general
system; and in countries where a system of lights is
about to be introduced, such as Spain, a general prin-
ciple is to be adopted.
4. What is the height for a light above
the water which it is considered inex-
pedient to exceed ?
The average of the opinions of 136 mariners is in
favour of 206 feet, see Abstract: page 587, Vol. 11.
The highest light on the coast of England is Lundy,
540 feet above the sea.
The Trinity House considers that the height is
entirely dependant on the locality. The Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses think it advisable,
if possible, not to exceed 150 to 200 feet. The Irish
Board are of the same opinion. But lighthouses in
Scotland and Ireland are placed at a greater eleva-
tion, as Barrahead, 680 feet in Scotland, the Scelligs,
372, in Ireland.
The Local Authorities do not give valuable infor-
mation; and, on the whole, it appears that on the coasts
of the United Kingdom from 150 to 200 feet is the best
height ibrplacing alight, so as to gain the greatest pos-
sible range and avoid clouds. Every locality, however,
has its own peculiarities, which should be considered
N 4
104
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS:
Abstracts and before a light is placed on a new site. For example,
^ummari/. g, light placed on the cliff above the Needles was
found to be so often enveloped in clouds that it was
necessary to transfer it to the Needles rocks, — sacri-
ficing range, and expending a large sum, to gain a
clearer atmosphere at the foot of the clifl'.
The formation of clouds depends on so many local
circumstances, that it is impossible to lay down any
rule. The atmosphcie of the Mediterranean is gene-
rally clear, but in particular states of the weather,
and with a blue sky and strong wind, thick clouds of
mist are sometimes condensed for weeks together
about the tops of Gibraltar rock and Apes Hill. The
lighthouse at Gibraltar is placed low down on
Europa point.
5. The different descriptions of illuminating
apparatus (dioptric, catoptric, &c.)
employed.
1. Dioptric-lights placed behind glass apparatus
which refracts the rays.
2. Catadioptric-lights placed behind glasses, some
of which refract, and others both refract and reflect ;
or behind such glasses, and also in front of glass or
metal reflectors, which reflect some of the light
towards the glasses which subsequently refract it.
3. Holophotal, consisting of a special arrangement
of glass lenses and silvered or glass reflectors, by which
it is intended to utilize all the light produced from a
given source. Some rays are reflected, some refracted;
some both reflected .ind refracted.
4. Catoptric, consisting of lights placed in front of
metallic reflectors.
In dioptric and catadioptric lights, so called, a
single lamp with 1, 2, 3, or 4 wicks is used. In holo-
photal lights a single large lamp is occasionally used,
as at Hoy in Scotland. Occasionally the principle
has been applied to a number of the old parabolic
reflectors, each altered, and each with a separate
source of light, as at Rona, also in Scotland. Catop-
tric lights generally consist of from 1 to 30 parabolic
silvered reflectors, each with a separate lamp. The
aperture of these reflectors is generally large, and the
angular aperture and consequent divergence consider-
able.
6. General principles which govern the
selection of the particular description
of illuminating apparatus adopted at
each site.
No definite principle exists in the United Kingdom.
The Trinity House consider that it is dependant
upon the extent of arc to be illuminated.
The Scotch Board state no principle which can be
called general, but state considerations which bear
upon the flame, and the i)articular locality. The
Irish Board state similar considerations, but also
point out the necessity of considering the distinctive
character of neighbouring lights. Local Authorities
have no general principle. The French have a general
principle, which has been laid down and acted upon7
see page 669, Vol. II. ; and that piinciple is about to
be copied by countries which contemplate establishing
a new system of lights. In the United Kingdom, prac-
tically, nothing is decided on this point; and dioptric,
catoptric, and catadioptric apparatus are placed witli-
out reference to site.
7. The different characters of illuminating
apparatus (fixed, revolving, &c.) em-
ployed.
Fixed, revolving, flasliing, and revolving lights
with alternate colours, for England ; the same for
Scotland, with the addition of holophotal and inter-
mitting lights.
In Ireland all the ordinary varieties; Local Autho-
rities throughout the kingdom generally fixed.
By fixed lights are meant lights which are visible in
particular directions, either all round, or within an arc
of the circle only. Revolving lights illuminate only cer-
tain arcs of a circle at once, and their beams revolve so
as to illuminate larger arcs, or the whole circle at inter-
vals. The effect is that of a light waxing and waning
for a time, and succeeded by an interval of darkne-ss.
Flashing lights only differ from revolving by the
greater rapidity of their intervals.
Fixed varied bj' flashes is a fixed light of certain
power, alwaj's visible in certain directions, and varied
by recurring flashes of greater power and brilliancy,
such as at Grisnez, Calais, &c The effect is pro-
duced b}' making portions of the apparatus fixed and
other parts moveable ; or by moving the whole ap-
paratus, of which a portion consists of annular
bands. The distinction does not exist in catoptric
lights, and is liable to this disadvantage : such a
light may appear to be a revolving light, when
be_yond the range of the fixed light.
Intermittent are fixed lights which are from time
to time obscured by covering them up with opaque
substances. Tlie principle causes a waste of oil ; for
the light is entirel}' lost while obscured ; whereas in
revolving lights it is condensed, and is alwaj-s visible
in some direction. At Rathlin and at JNIine Head
one-sixth of the oil is burned to waste, and the light
might still be mistaken for a fixed or perhaps a re-
volving light. Similar lights exist in Scotland. The
light is much less powerful than the revolving and
flashing lights.
Double lights are sometimes used ; two entire esta-
blishments in separate towers, sometimes two in the
same tower. Such lights exist in England, Scotland,
and Ireland ; though they are not mentioned under
this question. See Whitby, where there are two, and
the Caskets, where there are three. This distinction
is the most costly of all. It is one of those used in
France.
8. General principles which govern the
selection of the character of the illumi-
nating apparatus (fixed, revolving,
&:c,), and colour adopted in each site.
There does not appear to be 9.uy general principle
which is acted upon in the United Kingdom. The
English and Irish Boards have regard to other lights
in the locality.
The Scotch Board refers to a treatise by ilr. Steven-
sou, in which the principle stated is nearly the same
as that which is stated in the French return ; but from
the correspondence relative to the lights at the Butt
of Lewis and at other sites, it appears that the Com-
missioners of Northern Lighthouses are not allowed
to carry out the principles which are laid down iu the
treatise to which they refer.
" 1st. The most prominent points of a line of coast,
" or those first made on oversea voyages, should be
" first lighted ; and the most powerful lights should
'■ be adapted to them, so that they may be discovered
" by the mariner as long as possible before his reach-
" ing land.
" 2nd. .So far as is consistent with a due attention
" to distinction, revolving lights of some description,
" which are necessarily more powerful than fixed
" lights, should be employed at the outposts on a
'• line of coast.
•' 3rd. Lights of precisely identical character
" and appearance should not, if possible, occur
•' within a less distance than 100 miles of each other,
" on the same line of coast which is made by over-
" sea vessels.
" 4th. In all cases, the distinction of colour sliould
" never be adopted, except from absolute necessity."
8. Drawing of each description of illumi:
nating apparatus (dioptric, catoptric,
&c.), and each character of light
cmploj-ed.
Drawings have been furnished by tlie Trinity
House. These are lithographs from the trade lists
of manufacturers.
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE.
105
The Scotch Board have furnished a gi'eat number
of well-executed drawing?, many of wliicli arc re-
]n-esentations of apparatus designed by the gentle-
men who made the drawings, and which are now in
use. The Irish Board have also furiushed well-
executed small drawings. Of the Local Authorities,
many have furnished drawings, which are all bound
together and preserved.
10. Fill up Table.
The tables will be found in Vol. II., at the pages
marked opposite to this question on the circular.
11. State what stores are usually supplied
by open contract, and the means
adopted for testing all stores suppMed.
Nearly all stoi-es arc supplied by open contract, to
the three General Lighthouse Authorities. The
means of testing them arc stated at length in the
rejilies, and seem to be effective.
12. General principles which govern the
selection of log signals, and of the
lighthouses to which they are sup-
plied.
None are used, except bells. Many suggestions
have been made. See replies to Circular I. 26. at the
pages marked.
13. If a general code of tide sign.ils is in
force, give it ; and if not^ state general
principles v.'hich govern the selection
of tide signals, and of the lighthouses
to which they are supplied.
No general code exists. No such signals are used
at large lighthouses, and every local authority which
shows tide lights, or other signals, has its own system
of signals and its own code. A national system, and a
general understanding on this point, seems to be
much wanted ; and the more applicable such a system
is to the whole world, the better it will be.
14. Nature and dates of any memorials or
applications for lighthouses on new
or old sites since January 1845, and
nature and dates of replies.
Refer to the replies, which are voluminous. See
Circular II. for the pages.
15. Total income and total expenditure on
maintenance of lighthouses, in each
year since January 1845.
By adding together the sums returned by the three
General Authorities, the following result is obtained.
Total
Total Income.
Expen
diture.
£
s.
d.
£
s.
d.
1845
. 434,216
9
11
120,639
7
2
1846
- 411,894
12
7
130,434
8
6
1847
- 435,358
15
1
144,458
7
8
1848
- 436,342
19
5
149,115
5
2
1849
- 430,480
5
9
140,827
7
3
1850
- 374,933
4
11
135,162
9
6
1851
- 403.369
6
1
135,631
2
9
1852
- 395,730
6
1
134,088
8
5
1853
- 422,897
8
0
135,896
4
6
1854
- 313,275
4
1
135 448
18
10
1855
- 311,961
2
6
113,024
15
2
1856
- 352,163
12
3
143,180
13
7
1857
- 310,780
14
1 )
155,120
11
.3
1858
- 296,886
12
6
131,520
0
9
16. Course pursued for ascertaining the
vahie of the various improvements of
a scientific character subnn'ttcd to
the General Authority making this
return.
The answers only apply (o a particular class of
scientific suggestions — those which can be tried expe-
rimentally in a lighthouse ; and these are practically
tested by the engineers emploved by the Lighthouse
Beards.
The Local Authorities apparently have few sugges-
tions made to them.
1/. Dates of all applications by the above
General Lighthouse Authority for
power to construct or re-construct or
alter the lighthouses, since 1st
October 1853, with date of final
approval; and in case of non-com-
pliance, the reasons given for any
deviation from the application.
See the replies, Vol. II. at tlic pages marked on the
CircuL'ir.
They are voluminous, and give an iusiglit into the
working of the present system oF Government. A
mass of correspondence has also been sent to the
Commission, and some of the subjects therein referred
to are mentioned in the oral evidence.
IS. Furnish a copy of any General Rules
and Regulations issued for the Inspec-
tion and management of lighthouses,
and copies of all printed forms in use
relating to lighthouses, classified and
bound.
Copies have been furnished but arc not published,
as they are very voluminous; the papers are all pre-
served.
19- General Remarks.
The English and Irish Boards furnish some infor-
mation relative to their correspondence with the
Superintending Authorities, and other matters, which
illustrate the action of the present system of govern-
ment.
The .Scotch Authority m.ikes no remarks under
this question.
CIRCULAR U.— continue,].
FLOATING LIGHTS— (General Return.)
1. Name and address of general Lighthouse
Authority.
Trinity House, Vol. IL, p. 107 ; Ballast Board,
p. 263 ; Liverpool, p. 335 ; Hull, p. 316 ; Stockton-
on-Tees, p. 362 ; Carlisle, p. 301.
2. List of floating lights under the super-
intendence of this Authority, with a
general chart showing their positions,
and a special return for each floating
light.
See the returns at the pages indicated in the cir-
cular, Vol. IL Trinity House 33 ; Ballast Board 4 ;
Liverpool 3 ; Hull 2 ; Stockton on-Tees 1 ; Carlisle
1. Total 44.
3. State general principles which regulate
the choice of positions for floating-
lights.
As near the danger as is consistent with safety, cr
as leadino; lights ia narrow channels.
106
APPENDIX TO EEPOUT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS
Aistracis and ^ Number of spare floating lights — where
Suminar,/. j_^^^^ iiioorcd — proportiou of crew
attached to them— if fully equipped
with stores.
Trinity House 4 ; Balla.,t Board 1 ; Liverpool 2 ;
Hull 1. ■
5. General principles adopted for distin-
guishing floating lights from one
another" by day and by night, and
from other vessels by day.
Name written on side ; colour ; arrangement and
number of lights, of masts : masthead balls, and blue
lights; shape and rig.
6. Is there any marked peculiarity in the
light exhibited by a floating light
which ensures it from being mistaken
for ships' lights, or others.
Superior brilliancy, variation in intensity, inter-
vals of darkness, colour, number of lights, relative
positions of lights.
7. The different description of illuminating
apparatus (dioptric, catoptric, iVc.)
employed.
Catoptric and dioptric. The forms of some of the
reflectors used at Liverpool and Hull vary froin the
others. A dioptric light is used at 8tockton-or-Tecs.
8.
General principles which govern the
selection of the particular description
of illuminating apparatus (dioptric,
catoptric, eS:c.) adopted in each posi-
tion.
Catoptric is geueraliy retained, but there are
three dioptrics.
9. The different characters of illuminating
apparatus (fixed, revolving, &c.) em-
ployed.
Fixed and revolving.
10. General principles which govern the
selection of the character of the illu-
minating apparatus (fixed, revolving,
&c.), and colour, in each position.
Dependent on lights in the vicinity.
11. Fill up table.
See Returns.
12. Drawing of each description and cha-
racter of illuminating apparatus em-
ployed.
Drawings have been furnished.
13. General principles which govern the
selection of fog signals.
Gongs are almost always used. Bells were dis-
continucil in Ireland to avoid mistaking them for
ships bells. Guns are proposed; atmospheric whistles
were tried, and did not succeed. Bells and gongs at
Liverpool.
14. If a general code of tide signals is in
force, give it; and if not, state
general principles which govern the
selection of tide signals, and of the
floating lights to which they are
supplied.
None arc used.
1.5. Nature and date of any applications
for floating lights since January 1,
1845. — Nature and date of replies.
See Returns, which are voluminous.
16. Total income : — Total expenditure on
maintenance of floating lights in each
year since January 1st, 1845.
See Returns.
17- Course pursued for ascertaining the
value of the various improvements of
a scientific character submitted to
the General Authority making this
return.
Consideration by the Authorities and by their
scientific advisers, and occasionally experiment.
18. Furnish a copy of any General Rules
and Regulations issued for the Inspec-
tion and Management of Floating
Lights, and copies of all printed
forms in use relating to the same.
Copies have been furnished, and are preserved.
19- Dates of all applications by the above
General Authority for power to place
floating lights in new positions, since
October 1, 1853, with date of final
approval ; and, in case of non-com-
pliance, the reasons given for any
deviation from the application.
See Returns.
20. General Remarks.
Under this question the Trinity House, to avoid
repetition, have given replies to those questions in
Circular IV. which are of a general nature. See
page 108, Vol. IL
CIRCULARS III. and IV.
It seems impossible to give the information con-
tained in the replies to these Circulars, in a more
condensed form, as abstracts. A number of tables
have been constructed from the replies, and these
appear in the Report. A reference to the Circulars
at the beginning of Vol. I. will show where the
information given may be readily found.
The replies are numbered throughout the Appendix,
so as to correspond with the Questions in Circulars
III. and IV. Attention is directed to Plates
3 and 4, in Vol. I., made from Circular IH., showing
the income and expenditure ; and consumption of oil
at lighthouses under the three General Authorities.
CIRCULAR V.
BUOYS AND BEACONS.
A considerable portion of the information obtained
in reply to the questions in tliis Circular has been
tuhuhit'ed, and is printed at jjage 280, Vol. II. It was
not tliought necessary to repeat it here.
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE.
107
CIRCULAR VI.
Abstract of Lloyd's Evidence.
Ab&trarts unfi
Summary.
Questions.
1. Have tlie goodness to write your
name and address, and state jour
occupation.
2. Wliat is the name of the port or
place to which your answers refer?
3. Give the title and address of any
authority, resident or otherwise,
exercising control over, and re-
sponsible forthe efficiency of liglits,
buoys, or beacons in the port or
place.
4. Do you consider that the port or
place and the coasts immediately
adjacent are sufficiently well
lighted, buoyed, and beaconed ?
5. Point out any improvement which
you can suggest in the position or
size of the buoys or beacons, or in
the position, number, height,colour,
or other peculiarity of the lights
or the lighthouse in or near the
port or place above named.
6. Name the precise sites on which
you would recommend the placing
of additional lights, buoj's, or
beacons, and give j'our reasons.
7. Wliat is the combustible (oil, gas,
&c.) used in the lighthouses or
harbour lights in or near the port
or place named ?
8. If you are aware that any of the
lights as above have been acciden-
tally extinguished or have «o<beea
dvly exhibited within the last few
years, state when, and mention
any accident that may have oc-
curred in consequence.
9. If you have known any of the
buoys to have been displaced with-
in a like period, state when, and
for how long, and mention any
accident that may have occurred
in consequence.
10. ]\Iention any accident that may be
fairly attributed to a ?t-an? of lights,
buoys, or beacons in the locality.
11. If tide signals are used, describe
tbeni. If no tide signals are used,
state whether you think they arc
wanted, and mention the descrip-
tion which you think best suited
for the locality.
12. If fog signals are used, describe
them. If none are used, state
whether you think any are re-
quired, and mention the system
you think best suited for the local-
ity, and the position.
1.3. How are the buoys or beacons
in the port or place coloured ?
What is the form ? If they are
arranged on any system, describe
Would }'ou recommend any
change in their colour, form, or
arrangement ? — if so, what 18 that
change ?
184
17o Answers
9 Blanks
91 Answers
93 Blanks
177 Answers
7 Blanks
70 Answers
114 Blanks
106 Answers
78 Blanks
167 Answers
17 Blanks
7 Answers
177 Blanks
' 69 Answers
I 115 Blanks
92 Answers
92 Blanks
51 Answers
133 Blanks
■')5 Answer;
129 Blanks
Abstract of the Answers.
Lloyd's Agents and persons known to them.
Ill Ports separately named, once or more.
64 Districts.
91 Number of Local Authorities named
(see Map). The rest refer to districts
under the General Lighthouse Au-
thorities.
85 Affirmatives, favourable.
92 Negatives, unfavourable.
("Lights 23
70" Suggest improvements in/ Buoys 29
(_ Beacons 18
r Lights 51
106 Suggest additional Buoys 33
(_ Beacons 22
167 Name
Oil
Other com- i rr, ,,
1 .-I,, < tallow
bustibles 1 —
- 115
- 45
- 6
[Electric light 1
f Gas
6 Number of accidents (to lights).
1 Resulting in accidents (to ships).
60 Number of accidents (to buoys).
9 Resulting in accidents fto ships).
f Lights 39
29 Accidents from want of< Buoys 31
(^Beacons 22
41 Describe tide signals.
10 Think they are wanted.
31 Describe fog signals.
24 Think they are wanted.
1' Black and
red 47
120 Answers
120 Describe system J Black
- 42
64 Blanks
— colour - ) Red -
- 22
I White
- 9
'Cone -
- 21
Can -
- 12
„ „ tbrm<^ Nun
- 7
1 Square
7
[_Barre]
2
134 Answeis
12 Advise change.
50 Blank,
122 Do not.
Lloyd's
Hiiiknce.
108
APPENDIX TO REPORT O.V MGHTS, I3U0T?, AND BEACONS:
Alisliiieh and
QUKSTIOXS.
Lloyd's
Evidence.
15. If any local dues arc levied on
shipping in respect of local lights,
buoys, or beacons, state what they
are, and to whom they are paid.
16. Specify the nature of any com-
plaints tliat during the last few
years m.iy (witliin your knowledge)
have been addressed to tlie autho-
rity aforesaid, with reference to
lights, buo}-s, or beacons under
their control, and the result.
17. What in your opinion is the
general feeling of the mariners"
frequenting the port, as to the
efficiency of the lights, buoys, or
beacons in or near it ?
18. So far as you are informed or
can ascertain, what is the general
feeling amongst mariners fre-
(|uenting the port as to the local
dues collected in resi)ect of lights,
buoys, or beacons being excessive
or otherwise ?
19. So far as you are informed, are
the local dues so collected applied
to the purposes for wliicli they are
nominally levied ?
20. Are you aware of the existence
of any general opinion in the loca-
lity as to the present management
of lights, buoy?, and beacons by
the authority aforesaid ? — if so,
state shortly what it is.
Answers
AND Blanks.
Totals.
71 Answers
113 Blanks
23 Answer
161 Blanks
151 Answers
33 Blanks
28 Answers
156 Blanks
62 Answers
122 Blanks
63 Answers
121 Blanks
Abstract of tiu; Answers.
71 Mention local dues.
23 Specify complaints.
81 Feeling favourable.
70 Feeling unfavourable.
16 Dues thought excessive.
12 „ „ otherwise.
60 Affirmatives.
2 Negatives.
56 Opinion favourable.
7 Opinion unfavourable.
Kole. — The evidence will be found at length, together with other evidence, under the name of the General
I.ic.hthouse Authokitv having jurisdiction in the district referred to, or under the name of the
Local Authority, when the evidence applies to a place under local jurisdiction. 31 of the
returns are placed after the Trinity House return ; 26 after flie return of the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses ; 14 after the return of the Ballast Board ; making 71 returns applicable to
the three General Lighthouse Authorities. 113 are placed under the names of the Local Autho-
rities tg whose jurisdiction they seem to apply and are not numbered.
Mereanllk
Maniic.
CIRCULAR VII.
Abstract of Mercantile Marine Evidence.
Special Questions.
1. Have the goodness to write your
name, state your occupation, and
give your address.
2. If your evidence is intended to apply
to any one jiarticular locality, here
write the name of the port, place, or
district to wliich your answers refer.
114
Answers 114
24
Names.
Name 45 separate localities, namel}',
Aberdeen, 3; Ardrossan, 1 ; Belfast, 1 ;
Bristol Channel, 4 ; Bridgewater, 1 ;
Boston, 1 ; Clyde, 10 ; Cork, 2 ; Dundee,
4 ; Dublin, 2 ; Exniouth, 2 ; East
Coast and English Channel, 1 ; Fal-
mouth, 2 ; Friih of Forth, 2 ; Foyle
IJiver, 1 ; Greenock, 1 ; Glasgow, 1 ;
Hull, 5 ; Harwich, 2 ; Hartlepool, 1 ;
Ipswich, 1 ; Jersey, 2 ; Liverpool, 3 ;
London, 3 ; Leith, 2 ; Milford Haven,
1 ; Newport (Monmouth), 1 ; New-
castle-upon-Tyne, 2 ; Orkney, 1 ; Ply-
mouth, 6 ; Padstow, 1 ; Slioreham, 1 ;
Sunderland, 5 ; St. Ilelier and Bay of
St, Aubyn, 1 ; Shields, 3 ; Stockton, 2 ;
Swansea, 2 ; Sligo, 1 ; Solw.ay Frith,! ;
Tyiie, 5 ; Tenby, 2 ; Whitby, I.
Do not name localities.
ABSTRACTS AND SXJJIMARY OF EVIDENCE.
109
Number of Questions.
Totals of
Answers
AND Blanks.
3. Give the title and address of any
authority, resident or otherwise,
exercising control over or respon-
sible for the efficiency of the lights,
buoys, or beacons, in the place to
which your evidence applies.
4. Judging from facts within your own
knowledge, or from your own expe-
rience, how is the service conducted
by the authority having the manage-
ment of or control over the lights,
buoys, or beacons above referred to ?
5. So far as you are informed, what is
the opinion generally expressed by
master mariners frequenting the
place above named, as to the effi-
ciency and sufficiency of the lights,
buoys, and beacons above referred to?
6. Are any dues levied or collected at
tlie port or place avowedly in respect
of lights, buoys, or beacons, other
than dues collected for lights, &c.,
under the control of the Trinity
House Commissioners of Northern
Lights and Ballast Board ?
If no dues are levied or collected
avowedlj' for the maintenance or
construction of lights, buoys, and
beacons, from what funds are the
lights, buoys, and beacons to which
your evidence refers maintained ?
As a payer of light dues, do you con-
sider the dues above named exces-
sive or otlierwise ?
9. If you think the charge objectionable,
mention any instances in which it
presses heavily or unequally, or
unjusth' ; or any facts in support of
your opinion.
10. If you consider that they are not
properly applied, mention any in-
stancesof misapplication within your
own knowledge, and which you are
pi epared to substantiate, if necessary,
114
Answers 83
Blanks 31
114
Answers 74
Blanks 40
114
Abstkact.
114
114
Answers 50
Blanks 64
Answers ■ 46
Blanks 68
114
28 Name Local Authorities.
41 Name the General Authorities.
7 Nil.
70 Favourable.
3 Unfavourable, see 71
3 Nil.
63
16
4
74
88, 91.
Favourable.
Unfavourable.
Nil.
Name 15 localities in which local dues are
levied, namely :-
Aberdeen.
Briilgewater,
Clyde.
Cardiff.
Dundee.
Falmouth.
lifracombe.
Liverpool.
Milford Haven.
Newcastle-on-Tyne.
Plymouth.
Shields, North.
Shields, South.
Sunderland.
Stockton.
See Answers, of which no abstract can be
made.
Answers 7 1
30
Excessive.
Blanks 43
36
Oth^.'rwise
5
Nil.
31 State general objections and mention cases,
namely, — General charges, 9 ; Coasters
dues 1 ; Guernsey and Jersey 1 ; Rams-
gate I ; St. Anthony Ligiit 1 ; Cumbrae,
Glasgow, Clyde, 5 ; Cobler Buoy 3 ;
Blytli 1 ; Sunderland 1 ; Seaham 1 ;
Hartlepool I ; Stockton 1 ; Middles-
boro' 1 ; Whitby, or Staiths 1 ; Bristol
Channel I ; Solway Frith 1 ; Leith 1 ;
Greenock 1 ; Bridgwater 1 ; exemption
of ships of Her Majesty's navy 1,
Satisfied.
15 ' Nil.
4
13 Name instances of improper application
of funds, namely, — Funds said to be
misapplied at Greenock Harbour
Trust 3 ; the River and Harbour
Trust, Glasgow, 3 ; Trinity House ;
Tay ; Saltash ; Ramsgate Harbour ;
Cumbrae Light Trust ; Cumbrae ;
Clyde, Greenock, and Glasgow ; Cor-
poration, Newcastle; Cobler Buoy, Salt-
ash, 2 ; Tyne, Newcastle ; Mercantile
Marine Fund ; generally.
32 Otherwise.
1 Nil.
Abstracts an
Summary.
Mercantile
Marine.
0 3
110
Abstracts and
Summary,
Mercantile
Marine,
12
13.
APPENDIX TO REPOHT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
General Questions.
NrMBEi; OF QUESTIOX.S.
1 1. Speaking generally, and as a payer of
(lues levied by the three general
Lighthouse Boards in respect of
lights, buoys, and beacons, are you
satisfied with the operation of the
system under which tliese dues are
are levied and administered ?
If there are any facts witliin ycur
own knowledge, which you ciin sub-
stantiate if necessary, and which
show injurious results from the
system above referred to, have the
goodness to state the facts.
If you wish to suggest any alteration
in the system under which the dues
last named are levied and adminis-
tered, here state your views as
shortly as possible.
Totals of
Answers
AND Blanks.
Answer?
Blanks
42
114
Answers
Blanks
114
Answers
Blanks
Abstract.
24
44
4
Satisfied.
Otherwise.
Nil.
State such facts
Do not.
Suggest alterations
Do not.
Nil.
jWc. 1,000 copies of these questions were issued on the 4th of February 1860, and on the 14th of March 112
returns had been i-eceivcd. The names were selected from the following lists : — 1, Subscribers to
Lloyd's ; 2, Members of Marine Boards; 3, Delegates from out ports who attended tlie Shipowners'
Meeting in London in 1858. See Vol. 11. page 426 for the names, &c.
CIRCULAR VIII.
Mariners' Evidence, Abstracts.
Questions.
1. Are you well acquainted with any parti-
cular parts of the coast of the United
kingdom or the Colonies ? — if so, name
them,
2. Are you well acquainted with any
foreign coasts ? — if so, name them, or
those parts of them with which you
are well acquainted.
3. Do you think that the coasts of the
United Kingdom, or the part or parts
of them which you have named above,
are well lighted ?
4. Do vou think that the coasts of the 586 Answers
United Kingdom arc as well lighted as 207 Blanks
any of the foreign coasts which you |
have alrcad}- named ? j
Totals.
790 Answer.'
456 Answers
237 Blanks
715 Answer:
78 Blanks
If vouthink that the coasts of the United
Kingdom are not so well lighted as thost
of any other country or countries, name i
those countries in the order in which
you prefer their lights.
Have you ever noticed any derangement
or irregularity in the light of a light-
house or floating light ; or have you
ever known it to go out ; or have you
ever known a floating light to be off her
station? — if so, state when and where.
AVhat British and wh-it foreign light
jiavc you usually seen furthest ofl", and
which of the two has been usually visible
Qt the grcistest distance ?
311 Answers
482 Blanks
655 Answer;
138 Blanks
655 Answer.-
157 Blanks
Abstract of Answers.
Sec Index for the coasts named.
See Index for the foreign coasts named, which
include most of the sea coasts in the world.
564
110
17
3
14
514
18
8
8
38
200
33
18
45
15
477
111
38
23
(i
Direct affirmatives.
Qualified affirmatives, suggesting improve-
ments.
Qualified negatives, mentioning local de-
fects.
Direct negatives.
Doubtful.
No answer to this question.
Direct afTirmatives. f j^.g^i,,^
Doubtful affirraatives -,' French - - 25
,^ ,.,. , .• < Gulf of Finland - 4
Doubtful negatives - ) united states - .i
Direct negatives. (^Danish - - i
No answer to this question.
Prefer England.
Name countries preferred, viz.
Name countries equal.
No opinion.
No answer to this question.
Have not in either.
Have, — either in lighthouse or lightship.
Have. — in ligh'houses and lightships.
lioubtful.
No answer to this question.
r France ■
', Spain
Russia
J Sweden
Lltnly
312 Name Biitish and foreign lights .-ecu far
off.
149 The British light usu.ally seen farthest oflf.
74 Tlio foreign light usually seen farthest oflf.
69 British and foreign lights aa equal,
51 Have no opinion.
20 Are double answcra.
ABSTRACTS AND SUMRURY OF EVIDENCE.
Ill
QuEsnoNS.
8. Have you ever felt a want of light-
houses or floating lights on any part of
the coast, or in any of the channels of
the United Kingdom ? — if so, where ?
9. Do you think that the floating lights
generally in the United Kingdom are
sutHciently brilliant or distinct in cha-
racter to prevent them from being mis-
taken for ship's lights or shore lights ?
10. Do you think that the fog signals now
used in lighthouses and floating lights
in the United Kingdom are efficient ?
11. Do you think that fog signals are used
with sufficient frequency in lighthouses
and floating lights in the United King-
dom ?
12. Have you experienced inconvenience
from a want of tide signals in light-
houses and floating lights — or from their
inefficiency — ^r from a wautof uniform
system ? — if so, state where.
13. Do you think that the coasts of the
United Kingdom are well supplied with
buoys and beacons ?
14. Do you think that the coasts of the
United Kingdom are as well supplied
with buoys and beacons as those
foreign coasts which you have already
named at Question 2.? If you do not,
name the country best supplied,
15. Have you ever felt the want of buoys or
beacons on any part of the coast of the
United Kingdom ? — and if so, where ?
16. Are you aware of the existence of diffi-
culty in navigating any particular
channels, harbours, &e., owing to the
system of buoying there used, or the
absence of system ? — if so, name them,
and the defect in each case.
17. What is the shape and colour of the
buoys which you can see best at
night?
Totals.
Abstract of Answers.
18. If you have ever had occasion to make
a claim for the return of light dues er-
roneously charged, state how often, and
the result.
Be so good as to attend to the directions for
signing, S^c. at numbers 33, 34, 35, 36.
645 Answers 297 Have felt the want, and say so.
148 Blanks 31 Have noticed defect, but now remedied.
305 Have not felt the want, and say so.
5 Doubtful.
7 No answer to this question.
488 Direct affirmatives.
102 Qualified affirmatives suggesting improve-
ments.
21 Qualified negatives suggesting improve-
ments.
22 Direct negatives.
22 Doubtful.
3 No answer to this question.
352 Direct affirmatives.
78 Qualified affirmatives suggesting improve-
ments.
37 Qualified negatives suggesting improve-
ments.
94 Direct negatives.
34 Doubtful.
44 No answer to this question.
327 Direct affirmatives.
82 Direct negatives.
129 No opinion, or no experience.
66 Suggest improvements.
588 Answers 515 Have not experienced any inconvenience.
205 Blanks 50 Have, and suggest improvements.
23 Have had no experience, or have no
ojjinion.
Abstracts ami
Summanj.
Marine! s.
658 Answers
135 Blanks
639 Answers
154 Blanks
604 Answers
189 Blanks
668 Answers
125 Blanks
488 Answers
305 Blanks
647 Answers
146 Blanks
563 Answers
230 Blanks
Shape :
405 Answers
388 Blanks
Colour :
698 Answers
95 Blanks
513 Answers
280 Blanks
545 Affirmatives, direct and general.
83 Qualified affirmatives, with particular ex-
ceptions.
12 Qualified negatives, referring to local
defects.
15 Direct negatives.
13 No answer to this question.
442 Direct affirmatives.
6 Qualified affirmatives suggesting improve-
ments.
5 Foreign countries as well supplied.
8 Foreign countries better supplied.
27 Have no opinion.
456 Have never felt the want of buoys and
beacons.
12 Have felt the want, but now remedied.
174 Have experienced the want, and state where.
3 Have no opinion.
2 No answer to this question.
472 Are not aware of any difficulty.
14 Complain of want of system.
15 Suggest a general system.
52 Mention local defects.
10 No answer to this question.
Shapes
333 Have formed
anopinion as
to shape
72 Have not.
657 Have formed
anopinion as
to colour -
41 Have not.
Nun - 123
Spiral - 25
Round - 12
, Other shapes 16
*- 333
COLOUB.
Black - 40
Dark - - 9
Red - - 2
Chequered - 1
Red and White
White - - 6
Not classed - 4
L 1
493 Have not had.
14 Have.
6 No answer to this question.
0 4
112
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS ;
A!>stracts and
Summar;,.
QcEsnoss. Totals.
Special Questions.
Am/ of the foUouing questions remaining
unanswered to he crossed tvith the Pen.
19. Has it ever occurrcil to you that any I 343 Answers
particular system of lighting, difterent 450 Blanks
from that at present employed, would
have facilitated navigation ?^if so, de- i
scribe the system that would, in your
opinion, be an improvement. I
20. If you have formed any opinion as to 335 Answers
the extreme height above the level of , 458 Blanks
the sea which should not be exceeded iu 1
placing the light of a lighthouse on the |
coasts of the United Kingdom, men- \
tion the height. !
I
21. Can you suggest any improvement in , 375 Answers
the position, height, nature, colour, or ; 4 IH Blanks
means of identification of any light- |
houses, floating lights, buoys or beacons
in the United Kingdom ? — if so, sug- I
gest the imiuovoment, and give your i
reasons.
22. Would vou suggest the entire removal j 331 Answers
or a change in the position of any 462 Blanks
lighthouse, floating light, buoy or ,
beacon? — if so, name it, and st.ate j
why you think it should be moved.
23. Would you suggest the placing of a new 466 Answers
lighthouse, floating light, buoy, or 327 Blanks
beacon on any part of the coasts of the
United Kingdom ? — if so, state where
it should be placed, and why. ,
24. If you are in the habit of passing light- 509 Answers
houses with coloured lights, do you 284 Blanks
consider that they are discernible at a
sufficient distance, and that such lights
are sufficiently distinguishable from |
one another, and from white ligiifs in
all weathers?
25. If you have formed any opinion as to ' 416 Answers
the comparative merits of each descrip- 377 Blanks
tion of coloured light (red, green, blue,
&e.), as regards their application to |
lighthouses and floating lights, state it. i
Abstract of Answers.
26. If you are acquainted with any system
of colouring lighthouses or lightships
by which they are easily seen and
readily identified, describe the system.
27. What system of fog signal applicable to
lighthouses and floating lights in use
in this or foreign countries do you
think best ? — Describe it.
28. If you think that any uniform system
of buoyage applied to coasts, harbours,
channels, &c., would facilitate naviga-
tion, give yuur opinion, and describe
the system.
29. What system or description of tide
signals apjjlicable to lighthouses and
floating lights do you think best ? — and
if you are able, give the code for day
and night.
30. Have you ever made any representations
or proposals regarding the lights,
buoys, or beacons of the coasts of the
United Kingdom ? — if so, state to whom
-—the subject — and the result.
352 Answers
441 Blanks
384 Answers
409 Blanks
268 Answers
525 Blanks
202 Answers
591 Blanks
249 Have no suggestions to make. '
82 Make suggestions or desire alterations.
12 No answers, or no opinion.
128 Have not formed an opinion, or indefinite
reply.
203 Have formed an opinion and state height —
4 No answer to ^^^t ^'i"- ! "^^^ ^°-
this question. luo 24 ! mo 17
I 130 19 ' •MK) 6
200 45 I 5110 4
Mean 2:i0 feet
193 Are satisfied, and make no suggestions.
171 Suggest alterations as improvements.
11 No opinion, or no answer to this queslion.
210 JIake no suggestions or are satisfied.
109 JIake suggestions for removal or change.
7 No opinion.
5 No answer to question.
130 Make no suggestions, or say they are
satisfied.
3 il Make suggestions for placing new light-
houses.
5 No opinion, or no answer to question.
391 Are generally satified with coloured lights.
84 Generally satisfied, but mention defects.
15 Are not satisfied with coloured lights.
19 Have no opinion or experience.
fRed . - 215
j Green - - 12
303 Have formed an J Blue - . 5
opinion favourable to ). Red and green 12
113 Have no opinion. j White - - 29
(_Red and white 30
145
90
117
51
30
303
148
86
34
Are satisfied with present system.
Are not satisfied, and make suggestions.
Have no opinion, or give no answer to
question.
Have an opinion, and prefer " the present
system."
Have no opinion. ('Gongs - - 117
I Gongs and bells - 50
Prefer - - <; Bells as used - 38
I Whistles - - 10
LtWms - - 88
Are in favour o^ some uniform system.
In favour of present arrangements.
Have no opinion.
65 Are satisfied with present arrangements.
62 Point out defects or improvements.
75 No experience or uo opinion to give.
373 Answers i 62 Have made
420 Blanks | tafion -
■ 311 Have not m
P
repre.^On- |
;k1o any. j
ucrrssruily
uusuccesslully
uucerlaiii
no reply, result not
stated or in aU-
aiico.
ot)
..J2
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE.
lis
Questions.
31. It' you arc practically acquainted with
any lightliouse or floating liglit, tlie
liglit of which has been changed from
the catoptric (indicated in the official
lists by C), to tlie dioptric principle
(indicated by D.) ; and if you have
formed any decided opinion as to the
superiority of either principle, state it.
32. If from your general experience you
have formed a decided opinion as to the
comparative merits of the two principles
named above, state it, and your reasons.
33. If you have served at sea, state for how
long.
34. If you comniand a vessel, give her name
and tonnage, and port of register, and
if a steamer, her horse power.
35. Ee so good as to sign your name, stating
your present occupation, and giving an
address.
36. Date and fold the paper and send it
(unpaid) to the nearest post office.
Totals.
221 Answers
572 Blanks
163 Answers
630 Blanks
Abstract op Answkrs.
lights changed, and prefer - J D. 33
ITS Are not acquainted, or give no opinion.
7 No answer to this question.
Abstracts and
Summary,
(C.
23 Have formed a decided | D.
opinion and give rea-<| Cata. D.
sons, prefer -
- I C. afloat,
V. as
D.
hore
7 Have not formed an opinion.
9 Name places where liglits are excellent.
4 No answer to this question.
See Index. ~1 [ P. 145 Pilots.
M. 511 Jilaster Mariners.
FJM. 40 Foreign Masters.
3
31
1
1
See Index.
X
See Index.
J L
s.
10 Surveying Officers.
i.
8 Yachtsmen.
E.
1 Elder Brother, Tri-
nity House.
UN.
1 Admiral EN.
RN.
61 Officers do.
CE.
1 Civil Engineer.
15 Other occupations,
professions, &c.
Total
793
J\'ote. — In March 1860, after "these answers had all been received, printed, and abstracted, a number of
forms which were sent to the Secretaries of the Yacht Clubs in April 1859 were i-eceived by some
members, and were then filled up and sent. They are printed separately and are not included in
this abstract.
SUilMARY OF THE EVIDENCE OF
MARINERS.
The evidence collected from mariners is, perhaps,
the most important, as containing the views and
opinions of a very large number, nearly 800, of the
persons for whom lighthouses are erected, and buoys
and beacons jilaced. That evidence leads to the
following conclusions : —
1st, It appears from the replies to questions 1, 2,
33, 34, 35, that the witnesses are those best qualified
liy their experience and habits to form an opinion as
to British lights, and to compare them with those of
foreign countries throughout the world. There are
few places of importance in the world which are
frequented by traders, which are not mentioned in this
list of witnesses ; and every part of tlie coast of the
United Kingdom is mentioned by witnesses who are
practically acquainted with it.
2nd, It appears that of 715 witnesses who reply to
the 3d question, onlj'- 17 express a positive opinion
that the coasts of the United Kingdom are 7iot well
lighted.
3rd, Only 8 out of 586 express a positive opinion
that these coasts are not so well lighted as the foreign
coasts which they know ; but out of 306 who reply
to question 5, 46 name countries whose lights they
consider equal or superioi-.
These two replies appear to be somewhat contra-
dictory ; but taking doubtful affirmatives and negatives
together with direct negatives, the result appears to
he that from thirty-eight to fifty-six of the witnesses
have a general opinion that the lights of certain other
countries are nearly as good, if not equal or superior,
to British lights. The countries named are given in
the abstract.
I.
Foreign places with which the witnesses arc
acquainted. Questions 1, 2, 33, 34, 35.
Penmark
Norway
Baltic anclGulf
of Finlaud.
Xorth Sea
White Sea
Gulf of Both-
nia.
Archipelaf^o -
Black Sea
Prussia -
Africa
West Indies
and West
India Islands.
South America
North America
China
East Indies -
Persian Gulf -
Australia and
New Zealand
Jersey -
Some of the Places embraced under the
Principal Head.
North-west Coast—Bayonue,Eourdeaux,Erest,
Rouen, Calais, &c.
River Elbe, Viborp, &c. -
Christiana, Bergin, Ac. - - - -
Gottenburg, Holnistad, Stockholm, &c.
Rugen, Gothland, Revel, Abo, St. Petersburg
Archangel, &c.
Finland, North-west coast, &c.
North Coast, Bilboa, Cajio Fiuisterre, Cadiz,
&c.
Viffo, Lisbon, and St. Tjncent - - .
Giljraltar, Valencia, Gulf of Lyons, Marseilles,
Malta, Italian Coast, Scilly, &c.
SmjTna, &c. - - - . .
Constantinople, Danube, Odessa, Crimea, &c.
Dantzic, Konigsberg, See. - , -
Egypt, Arabian Gulf, Mozambique, Cape of
Good Hope, Coast of Guinea, &c.
Cuba, Domingo, Jamaica, Jcc. -
Amazon, Brazilian Coast, Chili, &c.
St. Francisco, Gulfof Mexico, St. Lawrence, &c.
China Seas . - , . _
Hindostaii, Bombay, Malabar, Coromadel,
Calcutta, Ceylon, &c. &c.
Number
to whom
known.
So far then the evidence is matter of opinion ; and
the opinion of mariners is very strongly ic favour of
British lights.
The 6th question was framed for the purpose of
114
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Marintrt'
vidence.
obtaining from eye-witnesses all possible information
as to defects in the practical -svorking of the system
in force for maintaining lights.
It must be borne iu min<l that the men who speak
are those who use the lights, and are anxiously
watching them at all times and seasons ; men who
have the very best opportunity of discovering faults,
and the strongest interest in pointing them out.
Of 655, 149 have noticed irregularities either in
lighthouses or lightships, or in both. But on looking
closel}' to this evidence, it comes out that in many
instances the same mishap has been noticed by a
great number of persons, and that the accident has
occurred at some period long past, but still fresh iu
the memory of old sailors ; that a large proportiou
The following table is abstracted i'rom the evidence given by mariners in reply to Question 7, which
comprises three : viz. —
7 a. What British light have you usually seen furtliest off?
7 b. What foreign light have you usually seen furthest oif ?
7 c. Which of the two has been usually seen at the greatest distance ?
of the accidents are the breaking adrift of lightships,
and that these are recorded by the Authorities, and
remembered as remarkable events by the crews of
the vessels.
477 of the witnesses have never, in all their long
experience, noticed any irregularities at all ; and the
accidents recorded by the rest are, generallv speakiuc.
such as are almost inseparable from the service.
This testimony then is highly honourable to the
Authorities who have charge of the lights.
So is the evidence obtained in reply to the 7th
question.
Its bearing can be seen by reference to the two
tables which follow.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7. 8.
9. 10-
Name of Light.
Nature.
Height
Miles,
visible.
Miles
seen.
Noticed
by.
Comparison.
Majority.
EXGLAXD.
^
o
*
o
1
Tynemouth
*
C. rev.
154
17
18
11
2
2
Flamborough Head
*
C. rev.
214
19
32
86
14
7
7
-
3
Cromer
•*
C. rev.
274
22
32
29
3
2
1
-
4
North Foreland
*
C. fixed -
184
18
40?
7
2
1
1
_
6
South Foreland
*
D. 1st, fixed
372
25
40
41
13
2
11
_
6
Dengeness
*
C. fixed -
92
14
—
2
3
~
3
7
Beachv Head
*
C. rer.
285
22
32
51
10
8
2
8
St. Catherine's, I.W.
0
D. 1st, fixed
178
18
—
5
-
3
-
3
9
Portland
0
C. fixed
222
19
—
2
_
3
-
3
10
The Start
0
D. 1st, flash
204
19
18
47
7
10
-
3
U
The Lizard
o
C. fixed
232
20
30
76
11
12
_
1
12
St. Agnes, Scilly
*
C. rev.
138
16
—
3
2
-
2
-
13
Lundy Island
*
D. lst,rev. C. fl. (2 lights)
540
30
45
55
15
4
11
_
14
South' Stack, Holyhead
*
C. rev.
201
19
—
39
7
5
2
-
15
Skerries
©
D. 1st, fixed
117
15
—
2
_
1
-
1
16
Calf of Man
SCOTLANT).
rir
C. rev. (2 lights)
282
24
42
21
'
"
2
"
17
Mull of Galloway
*
C. rev. int.
325
23
—
6
3
_
3
_
18
Barra Head
0
C. int. rev.
680
33
— .
8
_
2
-
2
19
Buchan-ness
*
C. flash
130
16
—
2
1
_
1
_
20
Bell Bock -
IRELAND.
o
C. rev.
93
15
~
6
2
1
"
1
21
Tuscar ...
C. 1st, int.
101
15
36
29
2
2
-
_
22
Ballvcotton
0
D. Ist, flash
195
18
—
9
_
3
-
3
23
Old Head, Kinsale
*
D. 1st, fixed
236
21
—
9
4
_
4
24
Fastnet, Cape Clear -
*
D. 1st, rev.
148
IS
30
30
9
5
4
_
25
Black Kock
0
D. new _ - .
~
1
-
1
-
1
579
112
77
40*
witnesses.
184
Comparieons
The 1st column contains the reply to Question
7 a.
The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th are taken from the Admiralty
List of Lights.
The 5th gives the greatest distance at which the
light named has been seen by any one of the wit-
nesses wlio has stated that fiict.
The 6tli shows the total number of witnesses who
named each light in reply to 7 a.
The 7th shows the number of comparisons favour-
able to the British light named.
The 8 th the number favourable to the foreign lights
named.
The 9th and lOtb give the majorities for or against
each light, and the totals show the results of the com-
parison ; ^ means British light, Q foreign, and the
majority is 40*.
Similar tables arc given under the names of the
light, together with the remarks of the Commission.
The lights follow each other in the above table, in
the order of their geographical position, sunwise,
that is, north, east, south, west.
579 witnesses have mentioned the 25 lighthouses
named in the above table as the British lights which
they have usuallj' seen furthest oif.
These have made 184 direct comparisons with the
foreign lights which they have usuallv seen furthest
otr.
And, in reply to the question which of the two has
been usually seen at the greatest distance —
111 are in favour of British lights ^
72 „ „ Foreign lights Q
Giving a majority in favour of British lights
of 40^:-.
The following table shows the result of the com-
parison as it atlects the preference shown for the
foreign lights named.
* Means favourable to British lights.
O J, „ lights elsewhere.
The European lights are arranged iu their geo-
graphical order, beginning from the north and fol-
lowing the coast. The result is the same as the
former table ; but this shows which of the foreign
lights are preferred. These are nearly all dioptric,
most of them are French, and the rest are generally
in southern latitudes, where the atmosphere is clear.
ABSTRACTS AND SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE. 115
COMPAKISON of Fifty Lights in Europe and elsewhere with Twenty-five British Lights.
Name.
Nature.
Height.
Miles
visible.
Seen.
Noticed
by
Compa-
rison.
Majority.
'
*
O
*
o
1
Dagerort - - -
? fixed
328
21
35
15
5
5
-
2
Naze of Norway
X>. 1st, flash
164
24
—
7
2
-
2
-
3
Hantsholm
? rev.
218
18
. —
1
1
-
1
-
4
Helgoland - - -
? fixed
221
20
20
5
.3
-
3
-
5
Schowen - -
D. 1st, rev.
171
20
23
11
1
_
1
-
6
Duukerque
D. 1st, rev.
194
24
40
2
1
-
1
-
7
Calais . . - -
D. 1st, flash
190
20
—
2
1
-
1
-
8
Grisnez
D. 1st, flash
194
22
35
108
30
18
12
-
9
Ailly
D. 1st, rev.
305
27
—
1
2
_
2
-
10
Fecamp - - - -
D. 1st, fixed
426
18
—
2
2
_
2
-
11
LeHeve - - - -
D. 1st, fixed
397
20
—
7
2
4
_
2
12
Barfleur ... -
D. 1st, rev.
236
22
— .
12
_
5
_
5
13
La Hagne . . ,
D. 1st, fixed
157
18
. —
3
_
3
_
3
14
Isle de Bas
D. 1st, rev.
223
24
27
2
1
-
1
-
15
Ushant . - . -
D. 1st, fixed
272
18
—
7
n
_
3
-
16
Belle ne
D. 1st, rev.
276
27
—
1
1
-
1
_
17
Cordouan
D. 1st, rev.
207
27
30
5
-
1
_
1
18 Knisterre
D, 1st, rev.
474
20
—
1
3
_
3
-
19
Bayonne - -
T>. 2d, rev.
603
20
30
3
-
2
_
2
20
Bertingas
C. 1st, rev.
365
25
—
2
5
_
5
-
21
Roca (Lisbon^
C. 2d, rev.
598
21
—
4
5
_
5
-
22
Cape St. Vincent
C. 1st, rev.
221
30
—
13
10
3
7
-
23
Tarifia
D. 1st, fixed
132
20
—
1
1
_
1
-
24
Gibraltar - -
D. 1st, fixed
150
15
—
1
2
_
2
-
25
Ceiita
D. 1st, fixed
483
23
28
8
-
1
_
26
Camarat - - -
D. 1st, rev.
426
27
1
_
1
_
27
PerqueroJes . - -
rv. 1st, flash
262
20
—
1
-
1
_
28
Genoa
? rev.
370
24
—
8
1
5
_
29
Leghorn - - -
? rev.
154
19
—
1
_
1
_
30
Peloaus (Faro)
D. 4th, flash
72
13
—
1
5
-
5
-
31
Gozo
? rev.
400
24
35
8
1
1
_
.
32
Alexandria
NORTH AMERICA.
? fixed
180
20
3
2
~
2
~
33
St. Paul's, Gulf of St. Lawrence -
Fixed ....
140
20
4
_
4
_
34
Mora Havana, W.I.I.
C. 1st, fixed and flash -
146
1?
—
_
2
3
35
Havanna _ - -
—
4
_
4
^
36
Cape Ottawa, U.S.
D. 5th, fixed and flash -
54
12
1
_
1
_
37
Highlands of Navesink, U.S.
D. 1st, 2nd, North, fixed
248
20
4
4
_
„ South, rev.
22
_
2
_
2
38
Sand Island, Alabama
D. 1st, fixed
152
19
2
_
2
39
New .Jersey - - -
4C»
Sandy Hook, U.S.
D. 3d, 5th, 6th, fixed -
90
15
—
1
_
1
_
41
Highland, C. Cod
SOUTH AMERICA.
D. 1st, fixed
195
20
~
1
1
42
Monte Video
Fixed and flash
486
25
__
_
1
_
1
43
Valparaiso ...
D. 'Jth, fixed and flash -
197
20
—
—
2
-
2
-
44
Koll
.
_
_
_
5
_
5
45
False Point, Bengal, E.I.
Fixed
123
18
1
_
1
_
46
CapeFria, Brazil
Rev.
1000
20
—
_
2
_
2
47
Pedra Banca, or Horsburgh, E.I. -
Rev.
95
15
_
3
_
3
48
Fire Island, U.S.
D. 1st, rev.
89
15
1
_
1
49
Bombay Coloba Point, E.I.
Rev.
132
17
1
-
1
_
50 1 Neuvet,Cuba - -
C. let, rev.
176
15
—
—
-
1
1
116
67
The opinions given are supported by the facts
stated, and confirmed by this comparison, and the
evidence can only lead to the conclusion that the
coasts of the United Kingdom are better lighted
than those of any foreign country frequented by
British ships, or by the foreign traders who have
been kind enough to give their evidence.
But while the evidence is so far favourable, the
replies to the 8th question show th.at of 645 witnesses
nearlv one half have felt a want of lights on some
part of the coasts of this kingdom, and their evidence
is of great value as showing the points to which the go-
verning authorities should now direct their attention.
So in reply to the 9th question the testimony is not
so favourable to the brilliancy of floating lights, and
it is evident that great improvements may be effected
in them. The reflectors are known to be smaller and
less well kept than those on shore. The lights are
nearly all catoptric ; nevertheless 488 out of 658
witnesses think them sufficiently brilliant or distinct
in character to prevent them from being mistaken
for ships' lights or shore lights, and there seems to be
little ground for complaint.
In reply to question 10 : 352 out of 639 state that
they are satisfied with the fog signals : and in reply to
question 1 1 , 327 out of 604 say that they think these
signals are used with sufficient frequency ; but there
is a large proportion who are not satisfied, and who
suggest alterations and improvements, and here again
the testimony is valuable, as showing where defects
exist.
Lights on shore are good, but something more is
wanted. Floating lights are good, but they might
be better. But fog signals have in many instances not
been remarked on. The witnesses are generally satisfied,
probably because they do not care much about the
matter; but many of them have never heard a fog signal
at all. And it is manifest that a gong or a bell cannot
be heard at any^great distance, except under favourable
circumstances.
Only 50 out of 588 have felt inconvenience from
a want of tide signals. They do not seem to be
P 2
116
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS:
Siimman/,
Mariners^
evidence.
required in connection with great lights ; but they
would be useful, and should be uniform in harbours.
The evidence is highly favourable to the buoyage,
absolutely and as compared with foreign buoyage.
Only 1.) out of 668 express a positive opinion that
the coasts of the United Kingdom are not well supplied
with buoys and beacons, and only 8 out of 488 express
a positive opinion that foreign countries are better
supplied.
But in reply to question 1.5, 174 out of 847 state
that they have felt a want of buoys or beacons, and
point out where. The buoyage is good, but incomplete,
and it might be extended and improved.
In reply to question 16: 472 out of 647 deny that
they tind an}' difliculty in navigating, but 79 suggest
alterations or wish for a general system of buoj'age.
The witnesses appear to feel confidence in their
own power of getting over difficulties, but to be
aware of the defects in the system, and the wants
which exist.
In reply to question 17: the men who use the buoys
and beacons state clearly and distinctly the shape and
colour which they can see best at night. Conical,
that is an angular shape, is best discerned ; probably
because the lines cross the horizon, and contrast with
the curved form of waves.
Black and dark colours are best seen on the water,
because the water reflects all the light that is going,
and the dark colour appears as a dark spot on a light
ground. Red is next to lilack, probably because that
colour is the greatest contrast to the blue or green tinge
of the light most commonly reflected from the sky
by the sea. White is the worst, obviously because
the sea is a light background.
The next question IS, relates to the payment of dues,
and is answered by 513, of whom 14 only had occasion
to claim a retiu-n of sums erroneously charged, but the
witnesses are not generally of the class who pay dues.
The series of questions which follow arc marked
" Special QnESTioxs,'' and were intended rather
for those who might have given special attention to
particular subjects than for the great body of mariners.
The answers to these are much less numerous than
the replies to questions on matters of fact and opinion,
and of daily experience.
In reply to Question 19, 82 out of 3 43 make sug-
gestions as to alteration in system of lighting ; and
on referring to the answers, it will bo found that they
apply rather to particular eases than to any general
system.
Question 20 is on a matter of o'oservatiou, and
elicits more cvidcncj. It gives 200 feet as the best
height for a light ou these coasts, on an average
of the opinions of 203 witnesses.
Question 21 asks tor suggestions An' the improve-
ment of lights, buoys, or beacons : 171 witnesses
have suggestions to oft'cr, but many of these relate to
local changes.
Question 22 asks for suggestions as to removal or
change, and 109 suggestions are made.
Question 23 points to the placing of new lights,
buoys, or beacons; and 331 suggest the placing of new
lights.
The result, then, of these three questions is, that
more witnesses desire the placing of new lights, &c.,
than the removal or alterations of those which exist.
This will afl'ord useful data for the Authorities.
Question 24 asks for opinions as to existing coloured
lights, and elicits the fact, that only 15 are not satis-
fied with them, but 84 others mention defects. There
are 509 answers; so this testimony is strcmgly in
favour of the coloured lights which are used.
Question 25 is of some importance as giving a
measure of the value of various colours. Thus, bltic
has only 5 advocates ; whereas red, singly or in con-
junction with wliito or green, is ])referred by 257.
(ireen, singly or with red, is preferred by 24. White
is menti(med by 29, who seem to have misunderstood
the question. Competent witnesses, then, speaking
from their own experience, prefer red to green, and
green to blue. The number of witnesses is large, 303;
and the majority for red alone gioat, 215 out of 303.
Quciition 26 elicits 90 valuable suggestions for
colouring lighthouses and lightships. They can
easily be referred to. Vol. II.. 561, and are well worth
attention as practical suggestions.
Question 27 produces a large majority in favour of
gongs and guns for fog signals.
Question 28 shows that 148 are in favour of some
uniform system of buoyage. The suggestions made
are various ; 86 are in favour of the existing state of
things, but on examination it appears that of these
30 are pilots, who may be prejudiced in favour of an
arrangement which only pilots can understand, and
which renders their services more essential.
Question 29 elicits 62 suggestions as to tide signals,
which should be considered when a regular system is
introduced into that branch of the .service.
Question 30 seems to show that these witnesses do
not generally make representations as to lights ; and
Questions 31 and 32 show that, as one of the wit-
nesses remarks, " they don't know the ropes," Catop-
tric and Dioptric, though they are peculiarly well
qualified to express an opinion on the light shown for
their special benefit.
The whole evidence is highlj^ creditable to the
general intelligence and practical common sense of
nearl}' SOO witnesses, who have replied to this Cir-
cular of which 3000 copies were issued ; and that evi-
dence is well worthy of attentive consideration.
The following tables have been prepared by Captain
Ryder. In the first the number of times that a light
is mentioned as seen at great distances (column 6,
page 114), is taken as a test of the efficiency of diflerent
descriptions of apparatus, dioptric, catoptric, &c.
The test is liable to this disadvantage, — one light
may be so placed as to attract the notice of more wit-
nesses than another ; for example, Flamborough Head
is in the track of colliers, and is mentioned as a good
light 86 times, while Barra Head, which is of the
same description, is in a more remote situation, and is
only mentioned 8 times, Lundy 55 times, and Girdle
Ness, which is a dioptric light, and was pronounced
by the Astronomer Royal to be well set and with a
good flame, is not mentioned at all.
Lundy on the direct comparison with foreign lights
(columns 7 and 8, page 114), has a majority of 11 ;
Flamborough has only a majority of 7 ; but in num-
ber of observations Flamborough stands before Lundy,
though Lundy has been seen at 45 miles (the greatest
distance named), and Flamborough only at 32.
If the greatest distance at which a light has been
seen is taken as the test, Flamborough should stand
fifth instead of first.
If the largest majority on direct comparisons with
foreign lights be the test, it stands fourth.
In the second table, page 118, i\u: lights are
arranged according to the order of merit indicated by
the number of witnesses who state that they have
seen them at great distances, and the number of
comparisons with foreign lights is shown. B means
better, W worse ; thus, Flamborough is thought by
2 observers to be better than Grisnez, by 3 worse,
leaving a majority of 1 in favour of Grisnez as com-
pared with Flamborough. The whole of the compari-
sons are added at the ends of the vertical and horizontal
columns, and give the same result as was arrived at
in the two former tables. Take for instance Grisnez
compared with the British lights, the total is B 30,
W 18, that is, 30 observers name British lights they
have seen further than Grisnez, although they have
seen Grisnez further than any other foreign light ;
and 18 observers, having the sameoiiinion of Grisnez
in comparison with other foreign lights, have also
seen it further otf tlian any British lights, giving a
majority of 12 in favour of British lights generally
compared with Grisnez ; but if the number who men-
tion a light be the test, then Grisnez has 108, and no
other light comes near it.
Ailly, which the French authorities consider one of
their best lights, which was examined by the Com-
mission and the Astronomer Royal, and found to be
an excellent light, is only mentioned by one witness,
and he considers that it is surpassed by Flamborou'jh
and Beachy Head, in which opinion he is unsupported.
MAKINERS EVIDENCE.
117
o :2
kH S
2 o
S O
c: O
■g fcb
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 I 1 [ 1 1 I !
Oh -2
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 j
1 [ •'
1 s
K*
O^PJ
1
1
'S-a
1 1 1 1 1 I 1 1 1 1 1 1 "^ 1 1 1 1 '^ 1 1
1 1 1
■* ^
§-s
1 1 1 1 I 1 1 t 1 1 1 . 1 1 1 1 II
1 1 1
~>
■2
g«
rt
.
~
o
t) fl
•
^
-^
g
If
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 S 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 1 1
?!>■■
".1
=J
^
to
g.
.2 tb
►3
P4
! <
^ a
0-2
1 1 I 1 ^*- .g i 1 1 1 1 1 " 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
1 I 1
St^
to
bI
g
^■^
"fl
S
S
a
0 to
hH
1 1 S 1 1 1 § 1 1 1 M 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
! 1
Sd
O
si
'"'
3
ll
u
C.'S
0 'A
1 .'^ 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 '- 1 1 1 1 '^ -
' ^ 1
iri
n '-O
0
.H to
b. .5
SIlsl 5-IlSsz:i|«i"=»l''l
— >
0
1 1
S "^
"S >
" s
fi
**- .2
SS^SS^iSSSSs::''"'*'"'^'^'""'^''
Oi CT
«
>5 &
0
1^ S
.£3
o
•a
•
= §.-3
2ggS!2S222?iS;-2;;i?2g222:2;S
2 2
K go -3
(^ S — T
,
o 1 .
•
^ ^ u
r- 0
S a B
— «-fooot, o^o>-iomoooQO<Nmr.SSS
to „ a
lM!MOs^<^^r:lN^-.c^c^) — ^Mo-.n ^„"JJ
■5 -= ^
" 1
^ to
I--
1
1
to
to
■
1 1
ic revolving
ic fixed
c revolving
ic revolving
c flashing
0 fixed
ic revolving
c revolving
ic intermitter
ic revolving
ic revolving
ic revolving
c flashing
c fixed
ic inter, revo
ic fixed
ic revolving
ic revolving
; fixed
ic revolving
;c fixed
c fixed
to
'
p
0 u
'
5 1
z *^ '^ i^ 'i^ 'tX ^ 'T^ z^ c. i^ zi 'IZ 't, ^ i2 i: t- .X ^ t- u
"E '£
^
|-|-|,|-|,|,|'|.|<|'g-§<|,|,|-|-|-|-|.|.|,g.
doQdSaoSiSoooQQdoodftcSoo
0 tj
,
a
' ' ' '
• ■
1
■5 (tj
1 , ' 1 : til
•2 °
, c-
i s
,
0 *-
-^ «s
1 1 ' ' 1 , 1 1 < '
,
1
-fj. H
^ ' >. '
1
^ M
' 1 T> ' ' "i 'S ? ■ '
<:4-.
- -c 1 S 1 a g 0 a '
0 1
To g "3-^ -"a''' o^ "
'
s
"A
9 a §2 a'il^'Sso.M'Sss
w
Flamboi
Lizard
Lundy
Bcechy
Start
South F
South S
Fastnet
Tuskar
Cromer
Calf of
1 Tynemo
jjallycot
Old Ilea
Earraht;
North F
Mull of
Bell Roc
St. Catn
St. Agn.
Dungent
Tortlai.d
1 ^
p o -a s « i
S.;C O O' >- ig
■s
0
-
S
'2
.2
X,
^
1^
/^
3J
■5
S
a
a.
o
■5
a
«
^
"S
5
n
£
■0
JS
=:;
¥
Tn
«
''
.c
R
"
A
i*
Jr;
=i
^
^
^
0
0
i
Z
J!
1-
g
cu
?i
t-
2
q;
0
-^ .a .^ ^ o b a
o- .;^ ■ >^-^ to -^
^ 3 ?! j- ".^ s S
0) ^ 3 a s ^ "
o ^
? .9 £ S .s % "
'bb'^ 13 o ^ to.E ^
'^ > a " ^ 'S .i to
, f' rt rt „ fc o :-
H 3o;5 ^o oj
3 °.a s a, J3 § a
^2_|To^r^|
■ jD c „ «ri .2 -g S
.2 ^^ .£ o to gi^ ■S
ll .£ -a ^ ;3 g 3
■^ ■" to o p rt ^ *j
s.S'S IS s o-
P 3
118
APPENDIX TO
REPORT
ON
UGHTS, BUOYS
AND BEACONS :
Table constructed by Captain Ryder from
i
•z.
Name.
5
1
>
1
0
I
1
1
Genoa.
Gozo.
Naze of Norway.
i^
1
Description - - " ! I^-
-
C.
D.
D.
D. - D. j
D.
Order or No. of Burners - IstO.
— lstO.|lstO.|lstO.|lstO.' — lstO.|l5tO.
z
^" C Revolving
-
-
1
1
1
-
M ^i
-
o
1 J Filed -
5 L Flashing
1
1
—
—
—
1
- 1
~
1
ENGLISH LIGHTS. [
Height above Water - \
1
L94 fl.' 328 1 221
108 1 15 1 IS
236
12
171
11
483
8
370
8
400
8
164
~ 1
Name.
'5
Q
■= C
1"
haracter. 1 g
No. of
i r
Observations -
■S
be
t
1
\
1
A
ij-
d >
Designation of Lamp 1
!
l\
X
Designation H"""
offamp. |gP,fJ„^
FlamborougU
c.
21
1
-
-
Feet. [
214 86 1
Argaiid,
parabolical \
reflector, j
5-159
(B2' Bl i Bl
IWS|W2 1-Wl 1 - 1
1 i I 1
Bl
W !
-
-
B
Wl —
Lizard
c.
19
i
1
i
229
76
Argrand, ,
parabolical
reflector. \
5-710
fBl!
l'W4 —
B2
\ri I
-
-
B
Wl
B
W3
Bl
AV -
Lundy
D.
1st order
1
"~
i
5M
55
Concentric -
wick lamp,
lenses, and
prisms.
10-069
fBs!
-
Bl
-
-
-
B
■wi
-
Beachy Head
c.
30 1 —
— 1 285
1
51
1
Areand,
parabolical
reflector.
4-362
(•B5
IW3
B
Wl
-
B
Wl
-
-
-
-
-
Start
P.
1st order'
1
"1
1
20*
47
Concentric
wick lamp,
lenses, and
mirrors.
8-795
(BS
-
B
Wl
B
W2
-
-
B
Wl
-
-
South Forelaiul
D.
1st order
"
1
~
372
41
3 concentric
wick lamp,
refractors and
reflectors.
8-866
fBU
1-0 2
-
Bl
W
-
-
-
-
-
South Stack
C.
21
-
201
39
Arpand,
parabolical
4-9-21
rB
Iwi
-
-
B
Wl
-
-
-
_
Fastnet
D.
1st order
-
-
148
30
1 concentric
wick lamp,
10-579
{-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Tuskar
C.
1st order
1
-
-
101
29
Burners,
parabolical
reflectors.
5-S87
{-
-
Bl
-
-
-
-
-
-
Cromer
C.
30
-
-
274
29
Argand. 4*524
parabolical
reflectors.
/B
iW2
Bl
-
-
-
-
-
-
Bl
Calf of Man -
c.
1st order
-
-
375
21
—
4-4S7
{V
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
_
Tynemouth
C.
18
—
—
154
11
Ajyand,
parabolical
reflectors.
3-%7
{-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
^v'
BaUycottin
D.
1st order
-
-
1
196
9
1 concentric
wick lamp,
vertical
rcflCTttors.
12-372
{-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Old Head, Kinsale -
D.
1st order
-
1
~
236
9
1 7-793
{-
]B1
_
_
_
_
_
_
Barrahead -
C.
1st order
1
-
1
080
8
5-558
{-
x>-i, - j -
-
-
-
-
-
North Foreland
C.
1st order
-
1
-
203
7
Argand,
parabolical
reflectors.
6-230 |{Bl
Bl
1
i -
-
! -
-
- j -
-
Mull of Galloway -
C.
1st order
1
-
1-
325
\ 6
—
6-833 [_
_
Bl
—
i "
~
- 1 -
~
BellEock -
0.
1st order
1
-
-
90
1 f.
6-769 . |_
Wl
_
_
_
_
_ 1 -
^
St. Catherine's
D.
let order
"
1
"
17S
J '
3 concentric 10" 162
wick lamp,
refractors and
reflectors. |
{-
-
-
Wl
-
—
—
I _
-
St. ARnes, Scilly
C. 1 30
1
^1-
I
-
138
3
Argand,
parabolical
reflectors.
4-451
{V
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
'
Dungencs8 -
C.
18
— 1
i-l 98
2
Argand,
parabolical
i reflectors.
6-790 [^1
Bl
W
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Portland -
c.
17
— 1
-
,222 3
1
1 Argand,
parabolical
reflectors.
6-502 l^_
-
-
B
Wl
|-
-
-
-
-
Skerries
Buchanni'bS -
Totals -
D.
C.
1st order
1st order
1
'
U7 2
130 2
Concentric
wick lamp,
refractors
and prisms.
9-068 {_
5-233 {_
Bl
W
Bl
C16
D8
—
13
— I — 1 : ■ ■ 1
1 BSD
8 ! :) 1 - 1 57- - !W 18
B5
BS
W3
B
B
VTl
Bl
W6
Bl
Wl
B2
W
mariners' evidence.
119
Answers to Circular VIII., Question 7.
«
D.
IstO. 1
Argand
para-
bolical
retleotors.
D.
1st O. 1st O. 1st O.
«
t§
"5
•3
3
s
s
V
"
n
X
'■5
— D.
— IstO.
Wl
B
W3
W 1 \V 1 W
120
APPENDIX TO EEPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND EEACONS :
Circulars IX. and X.
It has been thought advisable not to attempt to
abstract the Answers to these two Circulars. The
opinions and suggestions of the gentlemen who have
been so kind as to furnish replies are best given in
their own words, and they can easily be referred to.
See Circular and list of names, Vol. II. at the be-
uiuning, and at page o89.
There are two questions in Circular III. the answers to
which desen-e some more particular notice.
Questions 43 and 44 relate to income and expenditure,
and when they were first jjrepared the Commission had no
reason for supposing that to answer them x\'ould occasion any
serious amount of trouble. As each hght has an income de-
rived from dues levied on passing; ships, and an expen-
diture, it seemed to be a simple question to ask what that
income and expenditure was in certain years or quarters.
The questions were accordingly put, and the answers
have been gi'i'en, but to prepare these replies has occa-
sioned a vast amount of trouble. To have answered the
questions in the form in which they were originally put
would have cost much more.
It ai)pears that in England, Ireland, and Scotland dues
are collected for the three countries. A ship which is liable
to pay dues in respect of an English light may touch at an
Irish port, and pay there, and so the tolls are not separately
collected.
Formerly, a system of cross-counting existed, by which
the dues were apportioned, and the amounts for each light
kept separately ; hut this system was abandoned by direc-
tion, as it is stated, of the Board of Trade, and consequently
the following process had to be gone through before the
income of any light could be ascertained. The whole
income of the Authority making the return had to be broken
up into sums of sixteenths of a penny, and allotted to each
lighthouse passed in each voyage of each ship that had
entered a port in the country during the period ; and the
Authorities had then to communicate the result of their
calculations to each other before they could make up the
returns- In some cases, a further calculation had to be
made, in consequence of reductions in dues, and the labour
was so enormous that the Commissioners altered their
<)uestions, when they were informed of their effect.
They thought, however, that it «-as necessary to the com-
pleteness of their inquiri-, to have some information on this
important subject ; they retained part of the questions, and
returns have accordingly been obtained.
The Commissioners were not directed to report and have
not reported on the subject of dues, but it formed part of
their duty, under the head of economy, to ascertain how the
accounts were kept, and ample information on this head may
now he gathered from the returns.
It is evident that, so long as dues are levied as at present,
the relation between the jirobable expense of erecting and
maintaining a new light on the one liand and its probable
income on the other, will continue (whether rightly or
wrongly is a matter of opinion) to weigh with the Light-
house Authorities, when considering a demand for a new
light, and will assist or retard its erection. 'Ilie annual
income of each existing lighthouse has been ascertained for
the Commissioners, and printed in the rejdies to the Special
Returns, Circular III., and will prove for some time to
come of great value to the authorities when considering
what toll should be levied in respect of any new light-
house or floating light. Knowing from the returns now
printed what a given toll per ton produces from the
same trade in the nearest lighthouses, it will be easy to
name a toll per ton which shall produce, if thought advis-
able, a yearly stmi equal in amount to the cost of main-
tenance and the interest on the first outlay or within certain
limits to any less or greater sum.
A diagram has, therefore, been prejiared, and is placed
at the end of this volume, and an inspection of it will best
show what is the proportion betiveeu the income and ex-
penditure of various lights.
The incomes of English lighthouses are generally very large.
The Scotch lighthouses on the east coast have large incomes
also, but the highest Scotch income is far below that of
twelve English lights, and the income of the Smalls,
'22.7s9l.. is very far abo\e the highest Scotch income. The
Bell Rock is 5,134/., and that exceeds the highest Irish
income, Wieklow 3,510/. Every lighthouse in England,
more than pays its expenses, but a large proportion of the
lights in Scotland and Ireland do not. In short, it is
manifest that the income and the exjjenditure of different
lighthouses now bear no sort of proportion to each other,
for the expenditure is about the same in lights of the same
size in the whole of the United Kingdom. From this it
appears that the principle of keeping the income of a light
proportionate to its expenditure, has not been carried out,
and that the distinction between England, Scotland, and
Ireland in this respect is not of much importance.
A vessel arriving, say at Liverpool, from America, must
pass English and Irish, perhaps Scotch lights ; she may
come in from the north or the south ; she may be driven
out of her course ; and many vessels are in fact wrecked on
the western islands of .Scotland, and on the west of
Ireland, and make these coasts when tliey intend to make
some other. There are few lights on the western coasts,
and they have small incomes ; but it does not seem to make
much difference to the crew and owners ' of a vessel, if
wrecked for want of lights, whether tlie dark coast forms
jiart of one or of the other division of the United Kingdom.
And yet it is frequently argued that because a smaller
amount of dues is levied from passing ships in Scotland
and Ireland, therefore less money should he spent in erect-
ing and maintaining hghts on the dangerous coasts which
are least visited.
'I hat principle, if carried to its legitimate conclusion,
would leave the whole west of Scotland and of Ireland, the
most dangerous of the coasts of this kingdom, in darkness.
Questions IS and 1!) of Circular VI., and Questions
7, S, II, 1-, and 13 of [Circular VII. also relate to
dues. From the first two it apjjcars that so far as the
agents for Lloyd's and those whom they have consulted
are aware, there is no very general feeling hostile to
the existing system of levying dues, or to their application.
Only 16 \i'itnesses of the first class think dues excessive, or
are aware of such an opinion. There are 184 returns, and a
much larger number of persons interested had the oppor-
tunity of complaining if so disposed. ITie opinions of a
still larger number are expressed by Lloyd's agents, and
have been collected by them. Of the second class of wit-
nesses : The mercantile marine, those on whom the dues
fall ; a still larger number, nearly a thousand, must have
received the circular ; for only a very few of the papers sent
out were returned by the post office. The number lof
complaints in the replies to Questions 7, S, II, 12,
and 13 prove that whatever may be the objection to the
existing method of raising funds for hghthouse purposes,
the majority of those who pay the dues have no grievance
which they considered of sufficient importance to induce
them to complain. Only 35 out of nearly 1,U00 suggest
an alteration in the system under which dues are levied
upon them, and administered by the three General Light-
house Authorities; and of the 31, who think jiartieular /n j__
dues " excessive " or " objectionable," a large jjroportion U/U/Min
specify Local Dues, and in some cases the same charges are/T
nni'j(''""'"^* by several independent witnesses.
These questions, then, have elicited the fact, that those
who pay the dues are not generally dissatisfied with the
existing state of things ; and the replies to Questions
43 and 44 in Circular III. show what that state of
things now is so far as concerns the levying of light dues
and the expenditure on lighthouses.
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE
TAKEN BEFORE THE
COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION
AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Thursday, 29tli November 1860.
PRESENT :
Rear-Admiral WillijVji Alexander Baillie Hamilton, R.N.
Captain Alfred Phillii's Ryder, R.N.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Rear-Admiral William Alex^vnder Baillie Haiiilton in the Chair.
Peter Henry Berthon, Esq., examined.
1. (President.) You are Secretary of the Trinity
House ? — Yes.
2. Wlien were you first appointed ? — I was ap-
pointed Secretary in April 1 856, Iiaviug then been 40
years in the service.
3. In whom is the appointment of secretary vested ?
— In the corporation of Trinity House. It is a re-
commendation generally from the Committee of the
Wardens, confirmed by the court of the Corporation.
4. Who is it that prepares tlie annual estimates
which are now submitted to the Board of Trade ? —
They are prepared in the different departments,
examined in the Accountant's office, and approved by
tlie wardens, and laid on tlie table of the court, and,
when approved by the court, are sent to the Board
of Trade.
5. What is the exact date that you would fix as
the period when the Lighthouse Service of the Trinity
House came under the control of the Board of Trade ?
— The 1st of October 1853, under the Merchant
Shipping Act of 1853.
6. You consider, I presume, that by that act a
section only of the Trinity House, namely, that which
has to do with the management of lighthouses, buoys,
and beacons was to come under the control of the
Board of Trade, and not the Corporation of Trinity
House as a corporation ? — Not as a corporation, but
as respects that section only of its functions which re-
late to the management of lighthouses, buoys, and
beacons, and ballastage, which were made subject to
the control of the Board of Trade as respects expen-
diture by that Act.
7. Do you think you can furnish the Commissioners
with a copy of the estimates of expenditure on light-
houses as they were prepared for the Trinity House
before the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act,
and a copy of the last or present estimates ? — There
were no estimates prepared previously to the pass-
ing of the Act of 1853. The expenses were in-
curred as they became necessary, and they were
considered, of course, with reference to the means of
the Corporation to incur them, but no detailed esti-
mate was made annually of what might be expected
to be incurred in eacli year. At the end of the year
we had to make a return to Parliament of all the
expenses for the maintenance of lighthouses, together
with the revenue frour the lighthouses.
8. Can you produce a copy of such return ? — I
have not the parliamentary papers with me, but they
are filed. We have every one of them, year by year,
from 1834, I tliink, down to 1853, I moan the annual
returns made to Parliament showing the amount of
the collection and expenditure for each lighthouse.
9. Then that return is no longer given, made out
in that shape ? — No.
10. Since the passing of the Act of Parliament ? —
Yes ; we account now only to the Board of Trade for
the revenue and tlie expenditure, aud they account to
Parliament.
11. (Captain Ryder.) Is the account, as laid before
Parliament now, more or less explanatory than it was
before ? — Much less so. I might even go further,
and say that it gives no explanation now, but merely
a single item, the gross receipt on one side of the
collection for lighthouses, buoys, and beacons, and the
gross expenditure on the other.
12. Is the account which you give in to the Board
of Trade more or less explauatory than that which
you previously gave to Parliament ? — It is considera-
bly less explanatory, inasmuch as the Board of Trade
do not require the amount collected for any indi-
vidual light, or its expenses ; I do not know whether
they can get at the expenditure for any particular
light, but if they can it must be by an analysis of
the accounts ; they are uot shown in a single item,
as tlie Corporation of Trinity House used to show
them to Parliament.
13. (President.') What was the date of the Act of
Parliament requiring the Trinity House to purchase
certain private lights ? — It was the 6tli aud 7th of
William the 4th, chapter 79, section 42, passed on
the 13th of August 1836. Under the Act of the
3rd of George the 4th, the Corporation were em-
powered to appropriate a certain amount of funds,
which were then in their hands, to purchase the
private lights, and under that Act of Parliament the
purchase of the Flatholm, the Fern, and the Burn-
ham, were respectively made in 1823, 1825, and
1829.
14. Can you state whether previously to that there
had been other or frequent Acts of Parliament, direct-
ing the Trinity House to deal with their funds in a
particular way ? — I am not aware that, until 1822,
there ever was an Act of Parliament directing the
Corporation of Trinity House to deal with their funds
in any particular way.
15. (Captain Ryder.) Has the action of the Mer-
chant Shipping Act necessitated any increase of cor-
respondence on the part of the Trinity House ? —
Certainly.
16. Can you give any estimate of the proportionate
increase in the correspondence ; for example, has it
doubled ? — I should say that it has more than
doubled. There is a very largo increase ; in 1859
we received 240 letters from the Board of Trade, and
we wrote to them 211, and this year there is about the
P. H. Berthon,
Esq.
Q
122
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COJEMISSIONEBS APPOINTED TO
P. H. Bertlion, Same proportion ; all that correspondence, or nearly
so, originated in consequence of tlie control of the
Board "^if Trade.
17. Has your correspondence with the Scotch and
tlie Irisli Boards been increased by the action of the
Merch-i.nt Shipping Act? — I cannot say that it has
been increased much, and for this reason that tlie
Corporation exercised a control over those two
Boards, to a certain extent, previously to the passing
of the Merchant Shipping Act.
18. The same control as there is now ? — I think
more ; a greater control.
19. {President.) Have those letters principally
been on the subject of expenditure, or discussions
upon matters entirely connected with the lighthouses
themselves, their erection, or the nature and de-
scription of the light — I mean in tlie majority of
cases '' — The majority of cases of course would apjily
to questions connected with the expenditure.
20. Has there been any increase in the establish -
nient, although there has been an increase of clerical
labour? — Not since 1854. In 1854 an arrange-
ment of the official establishment was made by the
Board of Trade under the powers given to them by
the Act of Parliament.
21. When the Board of Trade settled the establish-
ment officially, was it done by increasing or diminish-
ing the clerical staff'? — They took the clerical staff" as
we had it.
22. ( Captain Ri/der.) And left it so ? — Yes ; at
the time that the official establishment was defined by
the Board of Trade, the Corporation had found it
necessary to employ three extra clerks, who have been
since retained with the special concurrence of the
Board of Trade.
23. Many of the questions which have been ad-
dressed by this Commission to the Authorities of the
Trinity House have, I conclude, passed more or less
under your review ? — They have. I have seen all
of them, but they have been so numerous that I
have not had an opportunity of giving them all very
full consideration.
24. Since the time when the Board of Trade has
exercised control, it may be stated, may it not that a
new system of accounts has been adopted different
from that which existed before you were jilaced under
the Board of Trade ? — Certainly.
25. You have stated that many of the questions
that have proceeded from this Commission have come
more or less under your review ? — I have.
26. Could you, under the old system of accounts
at the Trinity House, have answered those questions
mure or less readily than under the present system ?
— Many of them more readily.
27. is there any longer any payment of charities
out of the moneys received for liglithouse dues to
persons who are other than pensioners of the esta-
blishment ? — None. The incumbents of the pensions
at the passing of the Act of 1853, were to, die
out. I think the Commissioners will see by the
Return made to Parliament by the Board of Trade
that tlie pensions have been reduced from about
20,000/. to about 10,000/. per annum.
28. Then out of what fund is that remaining sum
paid ? — The Mercantile Marine Fund was made
chargeable with all the pensions then subsisting.
29. Then virtually it comes out of the light dues ?
— Clearly ; but it is a vanishing amount.
30. {Mr. Gladstone.) Docs that include the pen-
sions given to superannuated lightkeepers ? — No ; it
does not ; those are pensions and allowances of the
establishment allowed by the Merchant Shipping Act
to be given by the Corporation, with the sanction
and concurrence of the Board of Trade.
31. Do you think there is any minimum rule as to
tne number of cubic feet to be allowed for .sleeping
accommodation for lighthouse keepers in the light-
houses of England ?• — lam not aware of any minimum.
32. (Captain Jti/der.) Is there any diff'erencc in
the ])lan adopted now by the Board of Trade and that
liy the Trinity House previously to 1854, to ascertain
the views of the Shipping Interest regarding the
necessity of erecting a lighthouse, or making a change
in an existing lighthouse before tolls are levied ? —
There is ; the system pursued by the Corporation
previously to 1854 was this ; when the necessity for
a lighthouse in any particular position had been re-
presented to them, and they had satisfied themselves
that it w.is necessary, petitions were invited from the
trade particularly interested in the locality ; subscrip-
tion parchments, prepared by the solicitor, were sent
to each of those ports, to be signed by the parties
interested in the trade, who prayed the Corporation
to establish the light, and who, in the same document,
undertook to pay such reasonable toll for the main-
tenance of the light as might be imposed upon it, and
an aiiplication was then made to the Crown for a
patent empowering the Corporation of Trinity House
to li;vy such tolls. For each light so erected a
patent was issued under the Royal Seal enabling the
Corporation to erect a light and to levy a specified toll.
That was the course pursued previously to 18-54.
With respect to any system that is now pursued by
the Board of Trade, I am unable to give the Com-
missioners precise information.
33. Why does not the Tiinity House now collect
the suffi'ages of the Shipping Interest as it did before?
— ^Because no patent is now necessary for the collec-
tion of the tolls.
34. {Mr. Gladstone.) With respect to the erection
of a new lighthouse, or an alteration of any existing
lighthouse, is that decided at the general court of the
Corporation, or in the Lighthouse Committee ? — In
the general court of the Corporation.
35. The Lighthouse Committee has nothing to do
with it ? — I do not say that exactly, because the
Lighthouse Committee may be consulted on the sub-
ject ; but the determination to establish or to alter a
light is upon the decision of the court, and not with
the Lighthouse Committee alone.
36. The Lighthouse Committee, in point of fact, is
rather an executive than an administrative body ? —
Yes; clearly.
37. {Captain Ryder.) In what respect has the posi-
tion in which the Trinity House stood to the Shipping
Interest been changed by the Merchant Shipping
Act ? — Since the passing of the Merchant Shipping
Act the Corporation of Trinity House have not been
so directly in communication with the Shipping In-
terest as previously ; the Board of Trade acting now
intermediately between the two.
38. {Mr. Gladstone.) Was not the question of the
necessity of a lighthouse in a particular spot more
fully ventilated under the old system than at present?
— I think it was.
39. {President.) Could 3'ou furnish the Commis-
sioners with a copy of the last prospective annual
estimate that was submitted to the Board of Trade ?
— Yes.
40. Will you also furnish the Commission with the
last account laid before the House of Commons before
the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act ? — Yes ;
that will be the account for 1852. 1 do not think that
we rendered an account for 1853, because the Act of
Parliament came into operation previously to the ex-
piration of that year. I therefore tliink that the last
account rendered to Parliament was for 1852.
41. The Commissioners would also like to have a
copy of the last quarterly expenditure account that
was sent to the Board of Trade ? — I will supply it.
42. Could you now state, without referring to
documents, whether there is an item in your annual
estimates, which are submitted to the Board of Trade
for " Miscellaneous "'? — Yes ; there is.
43. Can you state to the Commission whether that
miscellaneous estimate is a smaller one now than it
was before the lights were placed under the Board of
Trade ? — We made no estimate previously. The
amount is about 4,000/. a year, and includes law
charges, travelling expenses, expenses of the commit-
tees of inspection, itc, and the annuities with which
the private lights had been chargeable when we pur-
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
123
chased them. These are things that wc cannot
classify under the different heads that the Board of
Trade have given us.
44. In the year 1836, the Trinity House was called
upon to purchase, and to take the management of all
the coast lights, then in the hands of private indi-
viduals ? — Yes.
45. And the amount paid, as awarded by juries,
for tho.se lights, amounted to 1,182,545^.? — The
total sum paid for those Lighthouses, the stores, &c.,
therein, and for the tolls chargeable in respect of
them, amounted to 1,200,246Z. 16*'. 4d., as shown by
a return in the Appendix to Report of Select Com-
mittee of 184o. Fo. 443 et scq.
46. Which money was borrowed from the Bank of
England, and from individuals on the security of the
Ught dues ?— Yes.
47. What was the amount of interest that you were
required to pay on that sum ? — We first paid 4 per
cent., which was reduced to 3 per cent in 1844.
48. Do you think that the Trinity House, taking
into consideration this large sum, which they were
obliged to ]iay for private lights, by the Act of 1836,
as awarded b_v juries, spreading that sum over the
70 lighthouses iu the kingdom under their manage-
ment, could form an approximate estimate of the
average cost to the Shipping Interest of this country of
each of those lighthouses ? — 1 do not think wc can
give the cost of the very ancient lighthouses.
49. {Captain Ryder.) Did the Corporation propose
to reduce the light dues in 1847 and 1852, and, if so,
by what amounts ? — ^Yes. I cannot say to what
amount in 1847 — but in 1852 the amount was 40,800/.
50. What was the answer of the Board of Trade to
that proposition ? — With respect to the reduction of
1847, I can give this answer : — The light dues having
been given under the Act of 1836 as security to the
parties from whom we were to obtain loans, the then
president of the Board of Trade thought that we
could not make any reduction of the light duties until
the whole of the debt had been paid off, inasmuch
as it would be depriving those parties of their
security.
51. That was with regard to 1847 ? — Yes.
52. Was the same answer given to the application
for 1852 ? — In 1852 an application was made, and a
reduction took place in the coasting trade to the
amount of about 15 per cent. That reduction was
then effected, but it must be understood that it was
five years later, when the debt had been considerably
reduced, and when the same objection could not bo
validly taken, and that a large reduction had already
been made in 1849.
53. What reductions were made in the light dues
in consequence of the suggestions of the Trinity
House in 1849 and 1852? — The reduction in 1849
was estimated at 79,800/. That in 1852, at 40,800/.
54. To what trade did those reductions apply ? —
Principally to the coasting trade in both instances.
55. What reductions have been made since ? — For
this information I beg to refer to Parliamentary
Paper No. 80, of last session.
56. Is there any retirement or allowance of Elder
Brethren ? — No.
57. How many Elder Brethren are there over the
age of 70 ? — Two.
58. Are there any who are incapacited for active
duties ? — No. I cannot say that any of them are in-
ca))acitated.
59. What duties do the three oldest Elder Brethren
perform ? — They take their regular turn of duty at
the Trinity House ; they do not, of course, go so
often afloat ; but they perform all the duties of the
Committees to which they belong.
P. H. Berthon,
Esq,
Mr. Robin Allen examined.
60. {President.) You have been acting as secretary,
or clerk, to the Committee appointed to receive and
send returns, in compliance with the requisitions of
this Commission ? — Yes.
61. Do you recollect our having applied for copies
of the specifications and drawings of two of your most
modern lights ? — Yes.
62. You sent to the Commissioners copies of the
specifications, and copies of the drawings that accom-
panied the specifications ? — Yes.
63. Can you state to the Commissioners who made
those drawings ? — They were used for the general
purposes of the Trinity House at that time, and were
originally prepared by Mr. Wilkins. Since then modi-
fications have been made and new drawings prepared
by Mr. Walker.
Adjourned.
Friday, 7th December, 1860.
PRESENT :
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton, R.N.
Captain Alfred Phillips Ryder, E.N.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Samuel Robert Graves, Esq.
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton in the Chair.
The Right Honourable Thomas Milner Gibson, M.P., and Thojias Henry I'akeer, Esq., e-^amined.
64. President. { To Mr. Milner Gibson.) You are
President of the Board of Trade ? — Yes.
65. How long have you been President of the
Board of Trade ? — I think I became President in the
summer of 1859.
66. The Commissioners wish to ask how far, as
the member of the Government presiding over so
great a department as the Board of Trade, and one
comprising such a diversity of business, you charge
yourself with the management of that portion of its
business which relates to lighthouses, and how far
you have been able, during the time of your pre-
sidency, to make yourself acquainted with the usual
course of that business ? — The question embraces
two or three points ; the fact is, that questions are
prepared and submitted in a clear form to the
President by those who have examined them ; and
it is not very difficult to fonn an opinion of the
right course to be taken in any particular case that
arises. Having the advantage of the opinions of those
who ai'e proi'essionally acquainted with the subject
under consideration, it is like any other branch of
business in a public oflice ; of course the two sides
of each question are submitted, and it is for me, at
the Board of Trade, to decide upon the whole which
is the right course to be taken, so far as our jurisdic-
tion goes.
67. You have stated that it is not very ditficult to
come to a conclusion as to the right course to be
taken upon any particular case that arises, those
whose duty it is having examined the papers, and
the questions being submitted in a clear form to the
President ? — Just so.
68. Then, in order that this Commission may be
informed who those persons are, at the Board of
Trade, who prepare the statements upon which you
come to a conclusion, you will, perhaps, he so kind
as to tell us to whom certain letters arriving at the
Board of Trade on the subject of lighthouses would
be referred in the first instance, and the course they
would take before the report upon them was finally
completed for your information ? — Upon any question
Ht. Hon.
T. M. Gibson,
M.P.
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
7 Dec. 1860.
124
jnXUTES OF irS^DEXCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COilMISSIONERS ATPOIXTED TO
Si. Hon.
T. M. Gibson,
M.P.
T. a, Farrer,
7 Dec. 1S60.
of a lighthouse, Captain Sulivan, for instance, would
draw up a memoraudum, uot binding upon the
President, but for his information, so far as it goes ;
and Jlr. Farrer or Mr. Booth, or both, would have an
opportunity also in submitting Captain Sulivan's
memorandum to the President to make any remark of
his own; and also Mr. Williams, iu a matter of account ;
and there would accompany those memoranda, the
correspondence and papers relating generally to the
subject, so as to form all that would be requisite to
enable the President to come to a conclusion upon
the question. In the case of the Scotch Lights there
would be a correspondence between the Board of
Trade and the Trinity House and the Korthern
Light Commissioners ; and there would be memorials
in many cases, proljably the memorials of the Trade
and Shipping interest, urging that any new light
should be erected or alterations made ; there would be
various communications from the persons interested,
and also professional opinions ; and from these, taken
together, there would be sufficient to enable the
President to decide as to the course to be taken.
69. In order to excuqilify more fully what the
system is with which you have now been good
enough to acquaint the Commissioners, might they
be informed to whom the letter of the 23d of January
18.5o, on the subject of the Godrevy lighthouse, was
first submitted by the Secretary of the IMarinc Depart-
ment ? — Not being President at the Board of Trade
in 1855, 1 cannot give the informatiou, but Mr. Farrer,
the Assistant Secretary to the Board of Trade is here,
aud will give the information.
{Mr. Farrer.) I cannot charge my memory with
it without referring to the pajiers. On doing so
I see that this letter, after going into the registry
room, was marked with Admiral Becchey's name, and
went to him ; it also has my name upon it ; my
name is put, as a matter of course, on all papers iu the
Marine Department ; and this paper probably was
taken by Admiral Beeehey direct to Lord Stanley of
Alderley, then our President. I see that the answer
was, that it would be taken into favourable consider-
ation. That minute is in Admiral Becchey's hand-
wi'iting. I cannot charge myself with everything
that passed, but I should mention that the papers do
not show by any means all that passed, because
here, as in every other case of business, the real
business is often done by personal communication ;
and as this was a matter very much discussed, I
know, although I was often not present, that there
were many personal communications between Admiral
Beeehey, the Deputy jNIaster of the Trinity House,
and Lord Stanley of Alderley.
TO. ( To Mr. Farrer.) Will you be good enough to
turn to the letter of the Board of Trade to the
Trinity House, dated 12th of September 1855 ? — I
have it here.
71. Cau you state to the Commissioners by whom
the report or submission was made upon which the
order was given for that letter to be written ? — This,
I see, was sent to me in the first place ; and I sent
it in to Admiral Beeehey, who seems to have written
a long minute upon it, and who seems to have per-
sonally communicated with the Deputy Master, and
also with the Hydrographer, for the purpose of getting
the remarks of some Admiralty surveyor upon it ;
and, finally, a letter was written upon a minute in
Admiral Beechey's handwriting ; no doubt written by
him, as his minutes constantly were, by the direction
of the President, Lord Stanley of Alderley. There
seems to have been a great deal ot personal communi-
cation and consideration beforehand.
72. Have you got the paper upon wliich 3"our
letter of the 9th October 1856 was written ? — Yes, I
have it ; a letter of the Trinity House, dated 13th of
September.
73. Can you inform the Commissioners who gave
the order for that letter to bo WTitten ? — Yes. There
a[)pears to have been a legal question involved, and
there is an opinion of mine upon it ; there is then
an opinion of Admiral Beeehey, and also au opinion
of Mr. Booth's.
74. Was it at any time a question of money or of
expenditure. It is stated that they wished to be
informed of the diiferer.ce of expense ; by whom in
the department was it suggested that that question
should be asked as to a difference of expense ? — I
speak somewhat in doubt, but as ftir as I can see from
these papers it appears that the proposal of the
Trinity House was one that would involve very con-
siderably greater expense than had been originally
contemplated by Admiral Beeehey, and I see that I
merely pointed out in my minute the legal position
under the Statute which the Board of Trade and the
Trinity House respectively held. Admiral Beeehey
had wished to have some further information as to
the probable cost iu case of its being placed upon one
stone or upon the other stone, and consequently
upon that suggestion this letter of ours of the 13th
September 1856 was written asking the question.
75. {To Mr. Mibier Gibson.) Has it bceu necessary
to increase the clerical staff of the Marine Department
of the Board of Trade to any considerable extent in
consequence of the lighthouse business alone? — There
has been no increase of the staff since I have been at
the Board of Trade, that I am aware of, on account of
the pressure of that business. There is of course a
good deal of business in the Marine Department.
76. But you think not with reference particularly
to the lighthouse business ?
{Mr. Farrer.) The clerical business of the Marine
Department is constantly growing. No doubt there
have been additions, but I am not aware of any
specific additions lately on account of that. There
were at the time when the Merchant Shipping Act
was passed, or rather when the Act of 1853 was
passed.
{Mr. MLner Gibson.) I may just observe that soon
after the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act of
course there would bo many novelties to deal with,
and difficulties to encounter, that do not arise now
that matters have got into a state of routine. Diffi-
culties at first existed which are not so great now.
77. We have found during our enquiry that lighthouse
illumination is a complicated subject, which has occu-
pied much of the attention of scientific men; is there
any officer of the Board of Trade who is practically
acquainted with those sciences which enter into the
construction and use of illuminating apparatus, such
as optics, glass manufacture, combustion, ventilation,
the best forms of vessels for floating lights, and the
forms of buovs and beacons ? — The Trinitj' House
has the advantage of the advice of Professor Faraday,
who is a very eminent scientific man, and thoroughly
acquainted, I should think, with the chemical part of
the question as it relates to illuminating; and they have
the benefit of their engineer, Mr. Walker. It cannot
be .said of the Board of Trade that they have there a
person specially appointed as a chemist, or specially
appointed as an optician. I may mention that Pro-
fessor Faraday does the work for the Board of Trade
for the Colonial lighthouses; the Trinity House, as
regards the lighthouses in England, take his advice;
there are separate boards for Ii'eland and Scotland ;
but still the Trinity Corporation has a certain au-
thority, and Professor Faraday's advice is, of course,
always to be had by the Trinity House, and he is
their chemical and scientific adviser upon illuminating
questions and lights.
{Mr. Farrer.) He has also advised the Trinity
House upon the ojitical part of the business.
{Mr. Milner Gibson.) The Commissioners must
bear in mind that we at the Board of Trade have the
advantage of the information which is obtained by
all these different bodies from their scientific advi
scrs, because it may centre there; aud if any question
in dispute has to be decided we have the benefit of all
the correspondence aud all the professional opinions
that have been given. With regard to the forms of
Buoys and Beacous, that, as I suppose, has reference
to what is the best thing to be seen at sea; and that
is a matter that a sailor, who is in the habit of looking
out for such things, would be the best judge of, I
think. What are the easiest colours to discern, aud
the easiest forms to see, at a distance; — I think that
we have an opportunity of forming an opinion upon
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OP LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
125
sucli questions as those ; at least, wo have the liest
advice, and we have the opinions before us of most
competent men ; we may have the advice of Mr. Steve'i-
son, a very eminent man in Scotland, and Professor
Faraday, and Mr.'Walker, according to the diiferent
questions that may arise. Upon purely nautical ques-
tions, of course we have nautical opinions.
78. You say you have nautical opinions ? — Yes ;
we have in the Board of Trade itself ; but we are not
bound by them, because we may have before us the
nautical opinions of the Trinity House.
79. You mean therefore the nautical opinions of
the Trinity House, the Lighthouse Authorities, as
well as of those officers who are in your own depart-
ment ? — Just so ; the President for the time being,
if he chooses to avail himself of all the information
within his reach upon any question of this character,
has the means of coming to a sound decision upon it.
80. With respect to those means, are they such as
you have already enumerated, or do you refer par-
ticularly to means actually within the office, and
which have not been alluded to in your previous
answers ? — I speak of the means which are within
the office, and also of the means which are out of the
office, because the means in the office — the memo-
randa drawn up by those who are in the office — would
be but the opinions of gentlemen in tlie office, and
not binding upon the President; he might, comparing
those opinions with other professional opinions,
perhaps difier from those in the office ; he is bound
to come to his decision upon all the information before
him, I conceive, and these memoranda are drawn up
there for the guidance and information of the Pre-
sident, but not to bind him.
81. Ai-e the Commissioners to understand that you
have no persons in the office besides those that are
enumerated in the official lists who have special means
of making themselves acquainted with the subject of
lighthouse illumination, or who have studied the
subject either before or since the passing of the Mer-
chant Shipping Act ? — ^No, not that I am aware of,
not in the office ; no person that can be regarded as
specially so employed. When you speak of light-
house illumination there are so many branches of it ;
do you mean the chemical branch ?
82. I would say both optical and chemical — On
these points we have the advice of Professor Faraday
througli the Trinity House.
(Mr. Farrer.) And also with respect to Colonial
lighthouses we have his advice direct.
(Mr. Milner Gibson.) Our control, in point of fact,
is the control of the purse. We have ultimately to
decide whether any proposed expenditure to be
charged upon the Mercantile Marine Fund is to be
undertaken or not ; whether upon the whole, viewing
the thing in all its bearings, it is desirable that the
proposed expenditure should take place or not.
83. I do not know whether you have had occasion
to look at the Reports of the various Select Committees
which, since 1822, have been appointed by Parlia-
ment to inquire into the management of the light-
houses of this kingdom. If you have done so, and
have seen the Report of the Committee of 1834, I
would ask whether, as a principle, you concur in the
opinion of that Committee as to " the paramount
necessity of having the best lighthouses and floating
light establishments for this great naval and com-
mercial country which the state of science can
aiford ? " — Jly opinion is that every lighthouse or
floating light should be as good as science can make
it, in order to answer the purpose for which it was
intended. For instance, although a particular light
might not be the brightest or the best in existence,
still if it answered the purpose for which that par-
ticular light was intended, I should not think it
necessary, therefore, because it was inferior to what
might exist, to go to the expense of altering it. The
question that I should consider would be this : Is the
light as good as it need be for the particular purpose ?
If it were a tirst-class light then I have no doubt
that it ought to bo as good as seieuco could make it ;
Q
but if it were one that need not bo seen for so great a
distance, or not of so important a character, it might
answer the purpose for which it was intended,
although perhaps not altogether as good as science
could make it. Of course we must bear in mind that
we have expenditure to consider, and that these lights
being a charge upon the trade and merchant shipping
of the country, unnecessary expenditure ought not to
be incurred. The cost necessary to make things
as good as they ought to be made must be in-
curred, but unnecessary expenditure it is our duty to
avoid.
84. You have just stated that you are of opinion
that the lighthouses should be the best that science
can afford to make them, in order to answer the par-
ticular purpose for which they are intended, but that
it is above all things essential for the Board of Trade
to consider what expense is necessary or unnecessary,
as the case may be, in order that the lights shall be
the best that science can aflbrd, and fit ibr the par-
ticular purpose. Do you feel satisfied that you have,
in the office of the I?oard of Trade, the means of
coming to a satisfactory conclusion, in your own
mind, as to what is really necessary and unnecessary
in the way of expense ? — I think that we have great
aids in the Board of Trade, which, in conjunction
with the information wc get from the Trinity House,
and the Northern Light Commissioners, and the Bal-
last Board in Ireland, is quite sufficient to enable the
President to come to a conclusion upon any particular
point of that sort.
So. Then perhaps you would admit, that in the
process of coming to such a conclusion considerable
time must be occupied, and a considerable amount of
business and clerical work gone through, not having
the necessary machinery exactly in your own depart-
ment ? — -We have a good deal of machinery in our
own department ; but of course you cannot lay down
any general rule, as applicable to every question upon
which there may be some difference of opinion. Some
are simple questions, some are complicated ; some are
trifling in importance, and others are of very great
importance ; therefore, of course, the consideration to
be given to them, and the trouble that is taken must
have some relation to the character of the questions
themselves. I may state this, that Professor Faraday
and Mr. Stevenson have been from time to time in
personal communication with the Board of Trade ;
and it is not necessary, in order to have their advice
on all occasions, to go through a correspondence.
Upon a recent occasion, a question arising as to a
change in the mode of illuminating the Dungeness
Lighthouse, I had a personal conference with Pro-
fessor Faraday, in order to hear from him what his
opinions were as to the scheme proposed.
86. May I ask whether, in your communications on
that subject with Professor Faraday, that part of the
question was gone into which relates to the eligibility
of the particular site of Dungeness for the exhibition
of the light proposed to be shown there ? — Upon that
point, which is nautical, I should have the benefit of
the advice of Captain Sulivan ; I should also have
the benefit of the advice of the Trinity House ; they
would give opinions as to the character of the light
which, in point of brightness, ought to be exhibited
from Dungeness, and the height and position of the
lighthouse at Dungeness. Then Professor Faraday,
who is an eminent chemist, would give his opinion as
to whether the proposed plan was likely to produce
that intensity of light which the nautical authorities
said was desirable for that site.
87. My question was rather to ascertain whether
the one particular subject of eligibility of position for
the exhibition of the electric light at Dungeness
actually came under discussion in your communications
with Professor Faraday ? — It was understood that the
brilliancy of the Dungeness light ought to be
increased ; that as it is a light of great importance to
ships coming up channel, and as it must necessarily
stand on low ground, and in a climate subject to thick
weather, it was thought very important that at any
3
lit. Hon.
T. M. Gibson,
MP.
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
7 Dee. 1860
126
MINTTTES OF EVmENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Bt. Hon. rate the light i<hould be able to peneti'ate through a thick
T. M. Gibson, atmosphere as far as possible, and to be visible at all
_, n r:' times as far as possible. Having to improve Duiigeuess
Esq ' ligiitj it '*^^* thought that perhajjs the electric light,
as lieiug of greater briUiaucy, would be applied there
7 Dec. I860, with advantage ; and Professor Faradav was consulted
• mainly upon the plan of the electric light ; whether
it had been already sufficiently tested to justify the
expenditure proposed to be incurred by adopting it at
Dungeness, and whether, in his opinion, it would
answer the purpose proposed.
88. Are the Commissioners, therefore, to under-
stand that the question of the fitness of the site of
Dungeness for a further trial, as well as the exhibition
of the electric light, did come under discussion in
your communications with Professor Faraday ? — I
would answer that question by saying that the
adoption of the electric light for the present at
Dungeness may be considered in some measure a
further trial, aud in pursuance of experiments that
had ah'eady been made, but which we should not
have adopted unless the trial which the electric light
had already received elsewhere had given such con-
fidence in it as to justify this further ti-ial.
89. You think it probable that the question of
Dungeness as to the position of the light did embrace
the two points, both of site for trial, and as pre-
senting a good opportunit}' for exhibiting a bright
light where a bright light was needed ? — Yes. I
never heard that it was an ira)>roper site for the trial.
Nothing was said against it as a site for the trial ;
but the main point dwelt upon was that it was very
important that at Dungeness you should have a light
of great brilliancy that could ]ieuetrate a thick foggy
atmosphere as far a? possible, inasmuch as it was low
ground, and vessels -would be drawing in. The
brilliancy of the light has a good deal to do with its
being seen in a hazy atmosphere ; you have many fogs
as you approach the narrows hanging about the low
ground of Dungeness and the Romney marshes. It
is very important, therefore, that you should have a
light that can penetrate a thick atmosphere. I .should
perhaps add, that at the time this question arose the
Start Lighthouse, as well as Dungeness, required a
new lighting apparatus, and that the expediency of
trying the new electric light at the Start was con-
sidered. In some respects, e.ff., height and land fall,
the Start would have been preferable. But the ques-
tion was decided in favour of Dungeness by Professor
Faraday's opinion, that the electric light should at
jiresent be tried in a fixed light and not in a revolving
light, which the one at the Start must be.
90. I think you have stated that the Board of Trade
has ample means of coming to a decision upon various
matters that may be called scientific, from being able
to refer to scientific authorities, as they now exist in
the several Lighthouse Boards ; but supposing the
Board of Trade to differ from any of the recommenda-
tions of the Executive Boards on nautical engineering
or scientific matters, what would be the course that
you would then adopt before forming au oi)inion which
might differ in natui-e and degree from that of any of
the Executive Boards ? — We are not the managing
Executive of the Lighthouse system ; we do not
profess to be that ; we do not act in that spirit. Tho
powers which are vested in the Board of Trade by
Act of Parliament were for the purpose mainly of
controlling the expenditure, and of preventing un-
necessary expenditure ; and when any jjlan is sub-
mitted to us, we, of course, before we sanction it,
satisfy ourselves that it is a necessary aud judicious
expenditure, that the professional advice and the
scientific opinions are of a character to justify it, and
that the plaus arei n conformity witii the best profes-
sional opinions. It is a very dithcuh thing exactly to
define what is the power of the controlling body that is
said to hold the purse-strings ; it is difficult lo draw
the line exactly beyond which it must not go ; but
the view that I take of it, having looked at the Act of
Parliament, is simply this, that we are to decide
whether any proposed expenditure, on the whole,
ought to be undertaken or not. That is what we have
to decide, and we must get all the information that
bears upou that to enable us to come to a decision.
With reference to the other part of the question, I
may state, that since I have been at the Board of
Trade we have had no differences with the Trinity
House ; at any rate, I. do not recollect anything but
small matters. With the Xortheru Light Commis-
sioners there have been some differences. There was
a disagreement between the Northern Light Commis-
sioners and the Trinity House as to the character of
the Ehu Vail Light, — as to its site, I believe, — and
the Board of Trade agreed with the Trinity House.
We consider that we have got the means of deciding
nautical questions, or of forming a- very good opinion
upon them, in the Board of Trade itself.
91. {To 3Ir. Farrer.) It appeal's that a letter was
written on the 4th of November 1856, to the Depart-
ment of the Secretary for War, on the subject of the
erection of a Lighthouse on St. Ive's Point. Can you
inform the Commissioners by whom the order for the
wi'iting of that letter was given ? — It was written
upon the minute of Admiral Beechey, — I see that it
has his initials, — after a communication with Lord
Stanley of Alderley, and some communication with
Mr. Williams .ibout money. I should mention that
sometimes the President's own minute or initials
appear on our papers ; sometimes any of us, as it
may happen, takes the papers in to him, and receives
his directions, and we make a note of them ourselves.
92. Then, in answer to a letter from the Trinity
House to the Board of Trade, of the 4th February
1857, a letter was written on the 12th of Februai-y
1857 in reply. Can you inform the Commissioners
by whose orders that letter was written ? — -It was
WTitten by the direction of Lord Stanley of Alderley,
after a communication Avitli Captain Sulivau and
myself. When I say that this was done I only tell
you what I see hai)pened by our own minute papers ;
it is quite possible that many other communications
may have taken place which are not noted on our
minute papers.
93. A letter was also ^vi'itten on the 9th of March
1857 by the Board of Trade to the Secretary of the
Trinity House, on the subject of the Godrevy light-
house. Can jow inform the Commissioners by whose
order that letter was written ? — That was wi'itten by
the direction of Lord Stanley of Alderley, upon a
minute by Captain Sulivan.
94. {Captain Ryder.) What is the course adopted
with letters arriving at the Board of Trade on the
subject of lights, buoys, aud beacons in the colouies,
previously to a decision being come to by the Lords
Commissioners of the Privy Council for Trade ? — Tho
course adopted is precisely the same as in tlie case of
the English lighthouses, so far as the routine of tho
oftice is concerned. Of course the circumstances
differ much. And the mode of obtaining advice from
engineers or other persons out of the office differs
from the mode of obtaining it where we have
Executive Lighthouse Boards to deal with.
Adjourned till Tuesday uext, at 12 o'clock.
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
127
Tuesday, 11th December, 1860.
PRESENT :
Rear- Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton, R.K.
Captain Alfred PniLirs Rtder, E.N.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Eear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie HAinLTON iu the Chair.
Sir James Dombkain, examiued.
95. {Chairman.) You are one of the members of
the Corporation of the Ballast Board of Dublin ? —
Yes.
96. You were formerly an of5icer in the Royal
Navy, and commanded the Coast Guard in Ireland ?
. — Yes. I established the Coast Guard in Ireland
in the year 1819, and commanded it for 30 years,
and my duties of inspector led me to visit every
Coast Guard station at least once every year, and
frequently much oftener. By those duties, frequently
performed afloat, I became thoroughly acquainted
with the whole coast, and since that period, namely,
when I left the Coast Guard, I have, as a member of
the Ballast Board, attended every inspection but one,
as a member of the Inspecting Committee.
97. How long have you been a member of the
Ballast Board of Dublin ?^I think I have been a
member of the Board for nearly fourteen years. I
think it was in 1847 that I became a member.
98. Two of the Committees of that Corporation
seem to be appropriated to lighthouse duties, namely,
the "Lightship Committee," and the "Inspecting
Committee"? — It is one Committee, namely. Inspect-
ing Committee, who visit and inspect both lighthouses
and lightships.
99. During the whole of those fourteen years have
you been employed generally upon matters concerning
the lighthouses of Ireland ? — Yes ; but the inspection
of the lighthouses did not commence till a few years
after I had been appointed one of the Board. There
had not been any previous inspection by Committees
of the Board, I believe, for a number of years, but
after joining the Board I saw the great importance of
the Commissioners themselves becoming acquainted
with their establishments on the coast, and I was cue of
those who very strongly urged upon the Board <he
necessity of getting a steamer for the purpose of
making those inspections. I think it was in 1852.
100. Are the Commissioners to understand that
there was no regular system of inspection antecedent
to the period when you made that suggestion ? —
None ; but the inspections were carried on by Mr.
Halpin, who duly reported his proceedings to the
Board.
101. Who was Mr. Halpin? — He was called, I
think, inspector and engineer.
102. Had he anything to do with the actual con-
struction, either of the lighthouses or the illuminating
apparatus ? — He had everything to do with the
construction of lighthouses, and the mode, of lighting
them, as a great number were built entirely under
his management and under his direction and at his
suggestion.
103. What part was he required to take with respect
to the ordering of the illuminating apparatus ? — The
truth, I believe, is that it was left entirely to Mr.Halpin's
recommendation, of course under the sanction and
approval of the Board, but he was the originator of
all the works that were required for the lighthouse
establishments.
104. Then who is the present engineer ? — Mr.
Halpin, the son of the late Mr. Halpin, is the Super-
intendent, under the denomination given him by the
Board of Trade.
105. Who is the inspector ? — He is of the light-
house establishments, and Captain Roberts of light-
ships and buoys. Mr. Halpin's denomination is now
" Superintendent."
106. Should you say that, in practice, there was
any disadvantage in the circumstance of having the
person who constructs or directs the construction and
the person who inspects one and the same ? — My own
impression always has been, and I have never con-
Sir
J. DoTitbr
cealed it from the Board, but at all times, and on all
occasions, when on inspection, or otherwise, that the n jjuj. i860.
Inspector and the Engineer ought to be two separate
and distinct persons. I think, in principle, that the
person who constructs, directs, and certifies should'not
be the inspector of his own work ; and further, that
as all applications for lighthouses, buoys, and beacons
are based on nautical grounds, that the inspector
should be a naval officer.
107. Can you state what the instructions are
under which the Inspector now makes his visits, or
who gives the instructions ? — Indeed, it has been left
hitherto, I think, to himself, to inspect when he
could ; but his duties are so numerous that I am
afraid I could not report that any general inspection
has been undertaken by the present Superintendent,
except when he has accompanied the Inspecting
Committees.
108. You have just stated that his duties are "so
numerous," can you at all describe to the Commis-
sioners what those duties arc ? — He holds the situa-
tion not only of Superintendent and Engineer and
Inspector of Lighthouses but he is also Engineer of
the Port, under the Port of Dublin Corporation, and
those duties have been onerous, and very heavy upon
him ; but the Board have lately taken means to
relieve him from a great portion of the Port duties,
in order to enaljle him to devote his attention more to
the Lighthouse Department.
109. Is he the regularly salaried Engineer of the
Port of Dublin Corporation ? — His salary is paid
partly from the Marine Fund, and jiartly from tho
Port Fund.
110. Can you separate the proportions ? — I think
two thirds are paid by the Board of Trade out of the
Mercantile Marine Fund, and one third by the Port,
amounting all together very closely to 1,000/. a year
now.
111. (Jlr. Gladstone.) It appears that the salary
is 800/., and that there is .an allowance of 100/. for a
residence ? — Yes ; I think it is 800/., which increases
year by year, I think, to 920/., or something like that.
112. {Chairman.) Is it exclusively for his duties
as connected with the Lighthouse service of the
Ballast Board that he receives this salary out of the
Mercantile Marine Fund ? — Yes, he receives two thirds
from the Mercantile Marine Fund, and one third from
the Port.
113. Are the two thirds from the Mercantile
Marine Fund in virtue of his office as Superintendent
of the Lighthouse Board ; — Certainly, as Superinten-
dent and Engineer.
114. {Captain Rt/der.) Are the Commissioners to
understand that the Superintendent has no special
instructions with regard to his inspections, and that
he does not inspect regularly ? — He has no special
instructions, but occasionally he has instructions to
inspect any particular station that may require his
attendance, or report upon any matter specially re-
ferred to him.
115. {Chairman.) Can you furnish the Commis-
sioners with the Inspector's last Annual Report of his
visits ? — I am afraid that there is not any Annual
Report from the Inspector.
116. What .should you s.ay was the average time
that elapses between the Inspector's visits to the
Lighthouses ? — He has accompanied, for the last seven
or eight years, the Committee? rf Inspection, iu all
cases, and those have been his inspections, when ac-
companying the Committees, but he has not made any
general inspection at any other time.
117. Should you say those inspections of the Com-
mittee were annual and regular ? — Certainly, from
Q-i
128
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COJOHSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Sir the time tliey first commenced they have been ex-
J. Dombrain. ceeclin"-ly so, and more than annual, sometimes they
: have been twice in a year.
11 Dec. 16W. jj^ (Captain Ryder.) What is the longest time
that has ehipsed between the visits of the Superin-
tendent to any particuhir lighthouse ? — I cannot
exactly charge my memory with those which have
not beer> inspected, from the inability of 'tlie Com -
mittsee to communicate with particular lighthouses
on the coast, it may have been in some cases
two or three years ; but all the principal lighthouses,
with one or two exceptions, have been inspected
annually, and those exceptions have been accounted
for by the state of the weather.
119. Some of those lighthouses which have not
been visited on account of the weather might have
been visited, might they not, by the Inspector from
the shore ? — Undoubtedly they may have been, if he
could have found time to have done it.
120. {Chairman.) Can you state the method of
ordering the annual supply of stores, including the
requisitions, &c., showing at what step the documents
are submitted to the Ballast Board ; or could you
produce the last year's requisition for stores ? — There
is no requisition to the Board whatever, exclusive of
oil, and the supply of all stores has rested hitherto
■with the Superintendent. I took the trouble, latch-,
to inquire from Jlr. Ilalpin upon what principle fur-
niture and various articles, for the use of the Light
Keepers, were supplied, whether there was any fixed
rule as to the quantity or not, and he stated to me
that it was quite arbitrary with himself to order what
he thought necessary for them ; and upon ascertain-
in" this, I drew out and submitted a form to the
Board, and which has been ordered to be adopted.
121. You have stated that the supply of .'ill stores
rests with the Superintendent ? — Yes.
122. Can you give the Commissioners a description
of the requisition upon which he orders the stores to
be supplied ? — It is on application from the Light
Keepers, stating to him what is required to replace
either that which has been worn out or become defec-
tive from other causes.
123- {Captain Byder.) Or anything that may be
fequired in addition ? — Yes.
124. {Chairman). Is that application from the
Light Keepers made upon any tabulated paper or
printed form ? — I believe it is to the Superintendent.
125. Then, in time, is not that submitted to the
Ballast Board ? — No ; the accounts of the cost of all
these articles, of course, all pass through the Board ;
and in future, as I have already stated, the Board
will have these requisitions before them ; the articles
are generally supplied by contract. Annual tenders
are called for for the supply of certain articles, such
as brushes, brooms, and various things of that kind
which are required by the Light Keepers ; it is
always done by public advertisement.
126. Can you produce the last year's report of the
stock remaining in hand, the document actually pre-
sented to the Board with the minutes upon it ? — I
cannot do so, for, as already stated, the system is not
yet in operation.
127. {Captain Ryder.) Is there such a thing? — I
apprehend Mr. Ilalpin has some such returns at
present, and that he can furnish the Commissioners
with them when he is called upon to do so.
128. Has he produced such a document to the
Ballast Board as to the stock remaining in hand ? —
Whenever it is called for, on any particular occasion,
a return is immediately ])roduced by Mr. Ilalpin, but
not so clear and com{)rehensive as the one no^7
approved by the Board.
129. {Chdirman.) I believe you ai'e one of the
Visiting Committee ? — Yes.
130. As one of that committee, can you ])roduce
the last general account of the state of the fabrics
and illuminating appanvtus, &c., showing the repairs
that were necessary ? — I can produce the minute book
of tho inspections, which will show the Commissioners
the duties performed by the Inspecting Committee, at
each Lighthouse establishment, on the coast. Their
observations are always directed to tliu state of the
buildings and the state of the apparatus, the repairs
necessary, and in fact the general state of everything,
houses and everything else. I have the minute book
of inspection with me if the Commissioners wish to
see it. I brought it for our own reference, in case
the Commissioners should ask any question connected
with it
131. Can you state the course which is adopted in
each case for making the required repairs, showing
the time that elapses from the date of the requisition
until the repairs are taken in hand ? — I cannot do
that. Air. Halpin could supply the Commissioners
with that information.
132. {Captain Ryder.) Do you know the course
that is generally adopted with regard to local afi'airs ?
—Yes.
133. What is the course taken ? — We have been
very anxious indeed, — that is, the Inspecting Com-
inittee, — on all occasions, to endeavour to get the
small work that is required, such as painting and
small repairs, done by some local parties. It has
hitherto been the practice, on the part of the
Superintendent, to send mechanics and artisans from
Dublin to execute those repairs, to do painting and
things of that nature, which we thought ought and
could be done much more economically, and probably
just as well upon the spot ; we have very strongly
urged it, and pressed it upon ilr. Halpin to do so,
and I believe in a great number of cases he has
adopted our views ; but there are some parts to
which it is necessary to send persons from Dublin,
for instance, anything connected with the apjiaratus
— lamps or anything of that kind — we are obliged to
send a proper lamp fitter from Dublin, we could not
find a person of that kind on the spot ; but in all
other matters, in small repairs, we have urged it
very strongly on all occasions that they should, if
possible, be done by local tradesmen.
134. {Chairman.) You say that it has been tin
habit of the Superintendent to send persons from Dub-
lin to execute ordinary repairs, excepting those you
have mentioned ? — I think principally for painting
and repairs of lamps, and things of that kind.
135. With the exception of matters which related
to the illuminating apparatus persons might have
been employed on the spot ? — Yes.
136. Should you say that that had been the practice,
with respect to Lighthouses, at whatever distance
from Dublin ? — The practice has hitherto been to send
persons from Dublin, but latterly that has been dis-
continued to some extent.
137. You have already stated that you strongly
recommended that a new system should bo adopted,
and that parties on the spot should be invited to
undertake what was required to be done ? — Yes ; and
I know that in some cases that has been carried out.
138. {Captain Ryder.) In many of the replies
which you have given, you have spoken of the Super-
intendent being urged to do this and pressed to do
that. I wish to know how it is that he does not obey
the orders which, I understand by those expressions
are given to him liy the Committee on Lighthouses ?^
I have already stated that Mr. Ilalpin's duties are
very heavy. In addition to that his state of health
is not good. lie is now laid up, and has been ordered,
1 believe, not to attand to any work whatever for
three months. INIr. Halpin, I believe, is a very zea-
lous and very anxious man, but he troubles himself too
much in the details of the establishment without, in
my mind, looking to the main features of it ; that is, if
the smallcstaccount comes before him bethinks itneces-
sary that he should go through that account and make
his report upon it, whereas it is one of those ordinary
returns such as may come, by a printed form, from a
Ligbtkccper, and he thinks it necessary that he sliould
go into the detailsof that himself instead of intrusting
it to the people in his office, thereby occupying a
great deal of his time, in my opinion, unnecessarily.
IXQUIRE INTO TlfE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
129
It lias boon very much urged upon liim by the
Board thut he should cndea.-our to uiuke a dillerent
arrangement, so as to be able to devote ino.e of
his time to the princ'oal part of his dulies. The
Board have, as I stated before, relieved him from a
great derd of his jiort duties, and have told him now
that they will recjuire that he shall make at least one
annual inspection of all the Lighthouses ou the coast,
irrespective altogether of the proceedings of ihe In-
specting Committee.
139. {^Mr. Gladstone.) Do not the Secretaries of
the Ballast Board relieve him of some of the duties
you have just mentioned ? — The Board have, within
the last few months, ordered that in future all cor-
respondence connected with the establishment should
be addressed to tiie Secretary, and by that they hoped
to be enabled to see what Mr. Hatpin really had to do,
and, as far as possible, to relieve him from the very
minute details which ho has hitherto thought it ne-
cessary to go into.
140. (C/iairman.) Then to whom had that corre-
spondence been addressed previously to its being or-
dered to go to the Secretaries ? — To Mr. Ilalpin.
141. I presume that the official correspondence
from the Board of Trade was not addressed to Mr.
Ilalpin ?— No, it was not. I am speaking of tho
establishment which is considered under INIr. Ilalpin's
superintendence, as Superintendent cf Lighthouses
and Engineer.
141. You stated that you had brought with you tho
minute book of the inspections — can you produce tho
last report of Captain Roberts, of his inspections ? —
No ; I liave not got the last report of his inspection,
although I have the report of the Committee of In-
spection ou both lighthouses and lightships.
143. (Captain Ri/der.) Is Captain Roberts's report
a full one ? — He reports on all occasions after in-
spection, and also whenever any matter arises neces-
sary for the Board to be informed of, and I may take
the opportunity now of saying that a more anxious or
zealous man I do not know, and he discharges his duty
to the perfect satisfaction of every member of the
Board.
144. {Chairman) I take for granted that you know
the Midge, the present buoy boat of the Ballast Board?
.—Yes.
145. As a person accustomed to the sea, do you
consider the " Midge" a fit vessel for tho duties she
has to perform ? — I consider her a most dangerous
vessel, and wholly unsuited for the purpose for which
she was intended. Only within the last fortnight she
had to take out a light ship to replace another, merely
as far as the " Kish," and she could not accomplish it;
she was obliged to come back ; it was only blowing
moderately strong, but she could not accomplish it.
146. Was it over contemplated, in supjilying tho
"Midge," that she was to undertake the duties of
replacing a light vessel ? — Certainly.
147. Do you think that the Board of Trade was
aware that she was expected to perform that duty ?
— She was built under the orders of the Board of
Trade, and it was very strongly urged upon them
to have a vessel sufficiently largo to enable her to do
that duty to a certainty — at all times to be enabled to
do it; but the President of the Board of Trade, at the
time, limited the expense to a certain sum; he would
not allow a few hundreds more to have a proper
vessel, and hence the unfortunate craft that we have
got.
148. Was it subsequently to the sale of tho
"Argus" that this vessel was intended by tho Board
of Trade to perform the duty of shifting a light ship ?
— Yes. I should slate that when the *' Argus" was
dispensed with in Ireland, the arrangement under
which it was done was, that we were, at any time
that we required it, to have a steamer belonging to
the Trinity Board stationed at Milford, for the purpose
either of shifting light ships or any other purpose
that we might actually require; but in our applica-
tions to the Trinity Board, we have found that it has
often been attended with the most serious inconve-
nience to them to give us a vessel, even for our
I. R
inspection, and therefore we have not applied to them
to shift a I'ght ship, for we knew, from our com-
munications with them, that it has only been at
great inconvenience to their department that they
have given a vessel upon almost any occasion, and
upon our last application, I think about August, they
were compelled to refuse one.
149. What was the date when the "Midge" was
employed to shift the '' Kish" light ship, as you have
mentioned ? — I think about a fortnight ago.
100. Had you applied to the Trinity llouse in the
first instance ? — No, not for that, because the distance)
was so very short; the distance was only seven or eiglit
miles.
101. {Captain Hi/der.) How did you shift tho
" Kish" light vessel ? — We shifted her at last by the
"Midge," but with a great deal of trouble.
152. {3Ir. Gladstone.) And loss of time ?— Yes ;
perhaps I may observe here, that when that vessel
gets two heavy buoys on her deck, it is positively
dangerous for her to go to sea.
153. (C/iairman.) Do you remember that an ar-
rangement was entered into with the City of Dublin
Steam Packet Company to replace light vessels if
required to do so, and can you state whether tho
arrangements were made by tlie Ballast Board or by
the Board of Trade ? — I tliink ihero was one occa-
Eion — I cannot exactly charge my memory with it^
on which an application was made to the City of
Dublin Company, by the Ballast Board, for the hire
of a vessel to shift one of our light ships, for which I
think they were paid 120/. I am not quite sure, but
I think that was the case; but no general arrangements
have been ever entered into with them, although wo
were permitted to make such an arrangement by tho
Board of Trade if we could do so.
154. Are you aware of any reasons for the ar-
rangement not being carried out? — The City of
Dublin Company stated that they could not be an-
swerable for supplying a vessel when wo might
require it, at a short notice ; that their vessels were
eno-a"ed in the trade and commerce of the Port, and
that they could not take them off their lines for tho
purpose of shifting light vessels.
155. I perceive, in answer to our question 9, with
respect to the mode of selecting and appointing
officers, th.it the appointments of the Ballast Board
are subject to to the approval of the Lord Lieutenant
and the Board of Trade ; has the power of disap-
proval ever been expressed by the Board of Trade, or
by the Lord Lieutenant ? — Never, I believe.
156. It would appear, at first sight, that the Ballast
Board was subject to the jurisdiction of the Trinity
House, and to a certain extent of the Board of
Trade ? — Precisely so.
157. But it appears that there is also another
jurisdiction that enters into tho Government, viz.,
that of the Lord Lieutenant ? — Yes.
158. Then the Lighthouse system in Ireland may
be said to have a quadruple government — its own
Board, the Trinity House, the Board of Trade, and
the Lord Lieutenant ? — That of the Loiri Lieutenant
is merely as to the confirmation of appointments, or
the disapproval of them ; it enters in no part into the
general management of the establishments in any
way — it is merely that if you propose the appoint-
ment of a new officer, or an increase of salary, ac-
cording to the Act under which tlie Board is con-
stituted, you must submit it to the Lord Lieutenant,
and, if he does not disapprove of it, I think in 21
days, then the oppointment may take place.
159. But his approval or disa]iproval applies to
officers of every description, dots it not ? — Not to
Light Keepers.
160. But to tho salaried officers ? — Merely to the
salaried officers under the Board.
161. (3fr. Gladsln7ic.) And as to making any rule,
order, or regulation ? — Yes ; there are certain regu-
lations for the government of the Port, not as a
lighthouse establishment — there are regulations such
as for the quays and matters of that kind ; for
Sir
J, Duvibrah.
130
MIN'UTKS OF EYIDEXCE TAKKX BEFORE THE COMMISSIOXEKS APPOINTED TO
J. Dumbrain.
11 Dec. 1860.
Rt. Hon.
Earl nfMeath
instance, at this moment the Board have under their
anxiou.-i consideration regnlation.s for the government
of the quay.s, which may bo termed Harbour Regula-
tions ; those, when they are properly digested and
considered will be submitted to the Lord Lieutenant
for his approval — indeed, I believe that they are
already, probably since I left, or they were to have
been— but nothing connected with the Lighthouse
whatever, it is merely the Port.
162. Do you thiiik that the Act of Parliament
merclv relates to the Port in that instance ? — Yes.
All the ofKeers in the establishment, the Commissioners
will observe, are paid part Port Fund and part Light-
house Fund, excepting Captain Koberts — he is on
the Lighthouse Fund solely.
163." ( Chairman.) Can you state how the power
given to the Board of Trade by the Merchant Ship-
ping Act, in Sections 422 and 423, to control expen-
diture, is exercised ? — It is exercised by the Board of
Trade in this manner: — Our expenditure is controlled
br annual estimates ; the annual estimates are sub-
mitted to the Board of Trade, showing what is required
for everything connected with the establishment, as far
of course as human foresight can give it, down to the
minutest particulars ; it is then sent forward to the
Board of Trade, and they state whether they approve
of those general estimates or not. But they have
<nven us an order also that, even as to those which
they approve, if it be any extensive or new work,
that ii shall not be carried into execution by the Board,
although the Estimate may have been approved by
them, until the subject of that particular work — if it
be, as I have stated, of an extensive character — is
again brought under their notice ; and all cases
which may" arise incidentally — that is, any damage
that may occur that could not be foreseen — is then to
be submitted to the Board of Trade, and they give
their authority upon it or not, as they think proper.
164. {Chairman.) Then no fund is allowed to you
for incidental expenses ? — Not a shilling. I will men-
tion an instance. The Annual Estimates provided a
sum, I think, amounting to 3,700/. ; it was for the alter-
ation of three lights on the coast, from catoptric to
dioptric : they approved of the annual estimates in
the gross, but when we applied to them to make this
alteration at one or two particular lights, which we
thouirht of very great importance to have made diop-
tric, they refused it.
165. Did the Board give their reasons for not
allowing it ? — Yes ; and their reasons were that until
the old catoptric retlectors were worn out they would
not sanction an alteration. In our recommendation
we selected three of the most important stations, as
we thought, ujion the coast ; the first was Cork
Harbour, which has a bad light, and yet it is a very
The Right Honourable the
169. ( Chairman.) You are one of the members of the
Ballast Board of Dublin ? — I am.
170. How long have you been a member of that
Board ? — I think about eight years.
171. You were chairman, I believe, of the visiting
committee of 1 859 ? — I was.
172. Can you state to the Commissioners what the
views of the Ballast Board are with regard to the
adoption of a uniform system of buoyage, both as to
the best colours for buoys, as well as the system
under which the buoys should be placed V — 'J'ho
opinion of the Ballast Board is that a uniform system
of buoyage should be adopted throughout the United
Kingdom.
173. Then at present no regular system of buoyage
does exist in Ire'aud ? — None.
174. Can you state whether the suggestions as to
the colouring of the buoys in particular localities
have been made by the Ballast Board to the Boanl of
Trade, and whether the suggestions of tlie Ballast
Hoard have been adopted or not ? — Suggestions have
been made by the Ballast Board with a view of can-y-
in" out a uniform system round the Irish coasts, but
without success. Captain Roberts, .seeing the very
great difficulties and dangers incurred by masters of
important light at Roche's Point, which is seen at a
very short distance. Then there is Copeland Island
at the entrance to Belfast Lough, and Tory Islaud,
which is generally first made by vessels coming
north about.
166. (Captain Ryder.) How long will the reflectors
at those three lighthouses, in your opinion, last? First,
take Roche's Point in Cork Harbour ? — Generall}', I
think, they may last for nine or ten years, affording a
diminished light every year. At Cork, on a very
recent occasion, the owners of one of the Atlantic
steamers reported to the Ballast Board that on a
certain night, when within five or six miles of the
land, the light at Roche's Point was not distinguish-
able, and they attributed this, in their report, to the
neglect of the light keeper, who they said could not
have had the lamps lighted at the time ; but an inquiry
was immediately instituted by the Ballast Board,
when they found that the light had been duly exhi-
bited, but its power is so circumscribed that it was
not seen at that distance. It was represented to
the Ballast Board also by the Admiral at Cove,
and the Admiral urged upon us the placing of a
better light there, but which was refused by the
Board of Trade, it being one of the places that
we had long previoush' recommended on our tours of
inspection. AVe looked at it in this light — that Cork
and Belfast were the two principal ports in Ireland,
and that to those we would apph- the better light as
soon as we could, the Tory Island light being the
light which is generally made by vessels coming from
America, we considered of equal importance.
167. Are there any other catoptric lights which the
Ballast Board would wish to change as soon as
possible to dioptric lights ? — Yes ; I am quite sure
that they would change the whole, because before the
Board were put under the control of the Board of
Trade it was part of their arrangement that as the
others became worn out, or any circumstances arose
to render it desirable that the better light should be
exhibited, it should be taken in hand, and annually
some should be changed.
168. Then are the Commissioners to understand
that if the Ballast Board had retained the manage-
merit of its own pecuniary affairs there would have
been a much larger number of dioptric lights in
Ireland than there are at present ? — I can have no
question about it. provided the Trinity Board con-
curred with us, which I am very happy to say they
have done on all occasions. There has never been
any ditlerence of opinion between us, and we find
them most anxious to meet our views and wishes in
every respect. We have really found them very
obliging on all occasions.
Eakl of Meath examined,
vessels navigating along our shores from the different
.-ystems of buoying that exist in difi'erent localities,
recommended our Board to adopt, throughout the
entire of their jurisdiction, the simple plan of painting
all buoys red on the starboard hand and black on the
port in entering harbours, rivers, and channels, and
that chequered buoys should mark all middle dangers.
This plan was approved of by our Board, but, on
being placed before the Elder Brethren for their
consideration, it failed to obtain their approval, and
therefore could not be put into execution. I may
add that this plan has been adopted for some time by
the Commissioners of Northern Lights, as also by the
Belfast and Derrv Harbour Commissioners, and if we
had been allowed to adopt it the system would have
become general in the Irish Channel. As to the
colours of buoys, I believe that all practical men are
of opinion that red and biack are best seen in our
waters. Suggestions have been made by the Ballast
Board.
175. Some of the buoys on the coast of Ireland, I
believe, have been placed there by the Admiralty ;
can you state in what localities buoys have been so
placed by tho Admiralty? — I know of a certain
number of Admiralty buoys, but I could not go over
the list of them without refreshing my memory.
INQXJIRK INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
J 31
1 76. Do you remember the circumstances attending
an application from tlie Admiralty Board to the
Balhist Board to phico buoys at Berehavon ? — I do,
perfectly. For correctness sake I would refer the
Commissioners to the correspondence from the Ballast
Board, \\'hich has been given in our answers to
questions 17 and 18, Circular 5.
177. It appears, from that correspondence to which
you have referred, that the Admiralty declined to
take any share in the expen-:e of laying down those
buoys, and that in consequence the Board of Trace
refused to sanction any expense on the part of the
Ballast Board for the same purpose. Would the
placing of those buoys in that locality have been of
use to the merchant shipping and to the trade gene-
rally?— Most undoubtedly it would to the trade iu gen-
eral of the kingdom. These useful buoys have not
been placed in consequence of the Board of Trade
refusing to adopt them, as the Admiralty could not
sanction the expenditure of two-thirds of the cost.
178. (Captain Bijihr.) Then, because men of war
frequent the harbours on the coast of Ireland, the
merchant shipping is deprived of buoys ? — Such
appear to be the views of the Board of Trade, indeed,
I am sorry to say, that on all subjects referred to them
they invariably seem to be guided in their decisions
by that wretched low principle of economy, and not
by the consideration of what amount of public benefit
is likely to accrue from the execution of the public
works submitted to them for their approval. I look
upon that board as a sad clog to all improvement in
lighting and buoying the dangers of the coasts of the
United Kingdom, and in support of what I have just
stated, I should wish to mention one case out of many
in the same class, viz., that of the Londonderry Har-
bour Commissioners with regard to the Tuns Bank
Buoys. About a couple of miles outside the entrance
to Lough Foyle, and in the open sea, lies a very
dangerous bank, called the Tuns, right in the fair
way of vessels making for the Lough. For the safety
of ships either trading with Derry or running for
shelter in stress of weather to the Lough, it is most
essential that this should be well marked, and it was
therefore with this conviction that the inhabitants of
Londonderry, a good number of years ago, went to the
expence of placing two buoys upon it. They have
now got an Act of Parliament, accurately defining
the limits of their jurisdiction, and authorizing them
to levy certain dues for lighting and marking with
buoys and beacons all that is within their conser-
vancy. The Act is very clear in stating the purposes
for which the dues are to be applied. The Tuns
Bank is a good way outside the limits of the jurisdic-
tion of the Commissioners under this Act, and by it
they are strictly prohibited from laying out any of
the dues collected in the port except on certain works
for the maintenance and improvement of the naviga-
tion of the Lough within the boundary as detailed in
the Act. They have therefore proposed to the Ballast
Board to hand over to them these two buoys on con-
dition of their maintaining them. This the Ballast
Board considered, under all the circumstances just
mentioned, to be but a fair arrangement, and a pro-
position that they had no right to refuse. They
therefore forwarded an application to the Board of
Trade for permission to take them undtr their charge,
but that Board, true to their guiding principle, re-
turned for answer " that they had no objection to the
" two buoys in question being transferred to the
" Ballast Board", provided that the expense of paint-
ing and repairing them was met by a small toll on
the Trade of the port, but as the Commissioners of
Londonderry cannot expend the dues raised under the
Act except for the purposes specified by the Act, the
demand of the Board of Trade cannot be complied
with, and these very important buoys will henceforth
be neglected, and when worn out or washed away
will not be replaced ; most assuredly, when this takes
plcae, which, sooner or later, will take place, a vast
amount of calamities must ensue. Hundreds of lives
will be sacrificed, and hundreds of thousands of pounds
R
n Dec. 1860.
worth of cargos will be lost, a sad realization of the Rt. Han.
bitter fruits of tliat miserable cheeseparing principle •^'"■' ofMeath.
that guides the decisions of the Board of Trade.
179. {Chairman.) As you were one of the visit-
ing committee of 1859 you can probably inform this
Commission whether ths floors of the dwelling-houses
of the lightkeepers are generally of wood or of stone ?
— They are generally of stone ; but orders have been
given to replace the stone floors by wooden floors.
180. {Captain Ryder.') When were those orders
given ? — They have been given at various times.
181. Has any long interval elapsed between such
orders being given and their being complied with ?—
Those orders have not been alwa3's complied with
immediately.
182. Has more than a year elapsed between the
giving of the orders and their execution ? — More than
a year has elapsed before those orders have been
carried out,
183. Have more than four years elapsed ? — I hardly
think that more than four years have elapsed.
184. (Chairman.) Can you state to the Commis-
sioners the .system of promotion of light-keepers :—
who promotes them, whether it is by seniority, or
what the claims are which go to make up a suflicient
case for promotion ? — Light-keepers are recom-
mended for promotion to the Board by the Inspector,
not iiccordiug to seniority, but according as he thinks
the men deserve it.
18.5. Then it is the Board which promotes, and the
Inspector who recommends ? — Undoubtedly.
186. (To Sir James Dombrain.) Is that system to
be maintained ? — Eeturns have been called for of the
principal as well as of the assistant light-keepers, and
the superintendent has been directed to state in the
column of observations his reasons for not recom-
mending men from the position of assistant to that of
principal light-keepers according to seniority, to fill
up vacancies .as they arise on the establishment.
187. Is this return to be made annually? — I shall
propose that it shall be.
185. (To the Earl of Meath.) You are, I presume,
aware of all the circumstances attending the purchase
and sale of the Argus ? — I am.
189. I believe the building of the Argus was ordered
before the Ballast Board came under the control of the
Board of Trade ? — It was.
190. Was that vessel ordered to be built upon a
communication having taken place with the Trinity
House ? — No.
191. Was she built specially with reference to the
service she would have to perform on the coast of Ire-
land, and that sort of seas that she would have to
encounter on that coast ? — It was with that view that
she was built under the orders of the Board.
182. Then I conclude that the Board furnished her
builder with information as to all that she would be
required to carry, and the description of service she
would have to perform ? — He was informed fully of
all that she would be required to do.
193. And when the vessel was completed and
handed over to the Ballast Board, did that Board iu-
tirely approve of the description of vessel furnished
to them ? — Upon trial she was found to be eminently
well fitted for that service.
194. How long was she in the possession of the Bal-
last Board before she was ordered to be sold ? — About
two years.
195. In the course of those two years had she been
duly and fully employed ? — I can hardly say that she
had been either duly or fully employed, as there were
certain members upon the Board who still hung to the
idea of the old system being the better and the luore
economical with regard to supplying the difierent sta-
tions with stores ; but before she was sold, and before
she was out of our hands, the Board, I might almost
say, had unanimously agreed that the supply of stores
would be much better done by her than by the little
sailing vessels that were employed. As an example, to
show how defective the present system is, — upon the
132
MIXUTKS 0? EYIDEXCE TAKEN BEFORE THE OOXTMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
n Dec. ISGO.
Jtt. ffi'ti. inspection of 1859 wc found that the sailing vessels
Earl of Meath. with the oil and stores, that hail left Dublin Harbour
in the first days of tlie month of May, had not arrived
at two of the most important stations on the west
coast in the month of September. One of the most
important liglits on that coast, Sline Head, the com-
mittee of inspection found to be destitute of good
oil. Tliere were in the tanks of one of the light-houses
270 gallons of bad oil, which had been condemned
four years before ; and somewhere about the same
quantity in the otlier lighthouse, which the keepers
were burning as well as they could, but giving a very
decreased light, so much so as entirely to alter the
character of tliose lights.
196. {Mr. Gladstone.) How came it to happen that
there was such a quantity of bad oil in one of the
lighthouses ? — It was a collection of refuse oil for
some years wliich had remained there, as no oppor.
tunity had occurred during tli.at period to take it
away.
197. {Captain Ryder.) Do you find that the oil de-
teriorates after keeping ? — After a year's keeping it is
never so good
198. {Chairman.) And after that time it deterio-
rates rapidly ? — Yes.
199. {Captain Ryder.) What is the practice with
regard to the sale of old stores, bad oil, &c.? — There
is a great diHiculty in getting rid of them anywhere,
particularly at the Rock Stations. The sailing vessels
that supply the stations by contract are not paid to
take away any refuse, oil, or stores ; and as we liave
not a steamer of our own to go round and collect them,
and bring them cither to Dublin or to Cork, or Belfast
to be sold, the}' remain a dead loss at those stations.
200. Are tliese accumulations, of which you have
spoken, still existing at the lighthouses round the
coast ? — They still do exist to some extent ; some
have been disposed of since.
201. {Chairman.) Are the Commissioners to
understand that sailing vessels continued to be em-
plojed subsequently to the Ballast Board having
possession of the " Argus " ? — They are employed up
to the present moment in supplying stores and oil.
202. They were still employed while the " Argus "
was your vessel ? — Matters had not been completed
to make an alteration before she passed from our
hands. Had she been left with us, it was the full
intention of the Board to have employed her regularly
in supplying stores and oil, and in shifting lightships
and buoys.
20,3. During the two years that she was in your
hands was she employed at all in visiting or inspect-
ing by the Board ? — She was regularly employed ia
inspecting by the Board.
204. Wis she employed at all for carrying buoys ?
— Yes, during our inspections.
20o. Do you remember the sum that was paid for
tliat vessel ?~I think it was about 20,000/.
206. Do you know what she was sold for ? — I think
she was sold for 10,000/.
207. Have you heard what has become of her ? —
I have hoard that she was taken out to the Mediter-
ranean and the Black Sea during the Crimean war,
and was found to be one of the best vessels that ever
went there ; she has now, I believe, been purchased
by the Sultan, and is used as his yacht.
208. Who was the constructor of that vessel and
her engines ? — She was built at Greenock by Messrs.
Caird.
209. Were the engines by Caird or Napier ? — They
were constructed by Messrs. Caird.
210. {Captain Ryder.) If the Ballast Board was
allowed to purchase anotlier vessel for a similar object.
namely, to carry stores and buoys for the purpose of
shifting light vessels and for the inspections, would
the Ballast Board wish to have a vessel like the
"Argus" in all respects, or if different in what
rtspect ? — I do not think thai they could get a vessel
mere coniidetely fitted to perform all that service than
the ''Argus," auJ iu that opinion, Captain Koborts,
who commanded her, fully concurs ; the one that is
at present lent to us periodically by the Trinity
Board is totally unlit for the service ; we have
tried her now for some years, and find that she is
totally unable to cope with the heavy weather on
' the west coast of Ireland. No later than during
the inspection of September 1859, we were detained
at various places, her captain deeming it dangerous
to go to sea, whilst we saw the mereliaut steam vessels
taking the sea and continuing their usual avocations.
The Committee were obliged to leave her in tho
Shannon for nearly a week, and to perform as much
of the inspection as they could by cars ; in fact, they
came round the whole south of Ireland and reached
Dublin before the captain thought it safe to take tho
sea and bring her round there ; and thereby the out-
lying lighthouses were not visited, and valuable time
was lost by the Inspecting Committee. I am merely
stating the opinions of the entire Board, that the
duty of inspection, and of supplying oil and stores,
can never be done satisfactorily or safely unless the
Board are possessed of a thorough good sea-going
steamer to enable them to wait their opportunities to
inspect and to leave stores at the outlying lights.
211. {Chairman.) How many spare light vessels
have you for the Irish service ? — I think two.
212. {Sir James Dombrain.) We have a second
one that might be used upon an emergency, but sho
is worn out ; there is only one regular one.
213. Where are these vessels stationed? — In
Dublin.
214. {Mr. Gladstone to the Earl of Meath.) Suppose
that the Coneybegs light vessel was reported to the
Ballast Board by telegraph to be adrift in a gale of
wind, what steps would be taken ? ^vould j-ou send
your spare light vessel in tow by the "Midge"?—
Most undoubtedly not ; she is quite incapable of
doing that service. The only available step to take
would be to apply to the Dublin Steam Packet
Company to give us a steamer to tow our spare light
ship to the place, and it is very doubtful whether,
under their pressing engagements, they could give a
vessel upon a short notice, and they would have the
power of charging any exorbitant sum they might
choose to demand, whereas if we had an efiieient
steamer of our own, the light vessel might be replaced
in about ten hours, and further in support of these
assertions as to the utter uselessness of the " Midge "
for the performance of the duty assigned to her by the
Board of Trade, I beg to state the following fact to
the Commission : — It was in October last that one of
the Burford Bank buoys was reported to have sunk ;
it was blowing fresh at the time, and the";\Iidge"
was sent to tow the spare buoy to replace the one
sunk, — this, after a considerable time spent on the trial,
she was unable to do, — she lost her way altogether,
and fell back on the buoy, which struck her vei-y
heavily under the counter. I am satisfied that any
of the small steam tugs of the port of Dublin, and
they are all small, would liave succeeded, under the
same circumstances, in towing out this buoy. Should
the " Midge " be caught with heavy buoys on her
deck in anything like a gale, and off a lee shore, she
will be obliged, to save hereself and crew, to throw
the buoys overboard, and to do this with the few
hands she has, and rolling heavily as she does in bad
weather, is a service both of great difficulty and
danger. I know that it is Cajitain Robert's opinion
that a vessel of the size and power of the "Vestal"
would cost no more in coals while buoy-shifting than
the " Midge," as buoys can only be shifted in fine
weather. The " Vestal " in a couple of fine d.ays
would shift all the buoys between Dublin and Wrcx-
ford, as she could carry the whole of them, about 20
in number, on her deck ; whereas, the " Midge "
would liave to make about six trips there and back,
and if bad weather came on would be prevented from
working, perhaps, for weeks. 1 believe that all that
can be said in favour of the " Midge," is, that she
sails tolerably well with a fair wind. Her maximum
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OP LI GHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
133
speed under steam and the most advantageous cir-
cumstances does not exceed eight Icnots ; but if there
is anything of a head sea and fresh breeze, she Iiardly
goes aliead at all.
215. (ChairtiKui to the Earl of 3Ieath.) Are you
prepared to say that those members of the Ballast
Board who are engaged in lighthouse management
would, to the best of your belief, agree witli you in
the answers with which you have favoured the Com-
mission ? — I feel confident that they would.
216. {Captain Ryder.) How is the water for the
use of the keepers, kept in the lighthouses ?—
Generally in wooden barrels.
217. Are there any other means of keeping it ?— .
Latterly we have ordered slate tanks to be erected in
most of the stations.
218. On visiting some of the Irish lighthouses I
found tanks there which had been sent to hold the
water, but they had not been erected, and they had
been waiting for many months on that account ?— .
That was undoubtedly the neglect of the Superin-
tendent ; he had oixiers to have them erected.
219. Have the lighthouse keepers in Ireland any uni-
form ? — Up to the present time they have not had any,
but the Board of Trade have sanctioned the necessary
expenditure to give keepers and the light ship
crews a uniform similar to that which is given by the
Trinity Board to those under their control.
220. Are the lighthouses painted by contract ?—
No.
221. How are they painted ? — -By day's work.
Men are sent from Dublin to paint them by day's
work ; but it is the determination of the Board to
have them in future painted by contract, the Board
supjilj'ing the oils and the paint.
222. How is coal supplied to the lighthouses ?—
By contract.
223. Is it supplied from Dublin ? — No ; from the
nearest town wherever we can make the best contract
for a lighthouse.
224. How is the Kish Light vessel's position in-
dicated in a fog ? — By a gong.
225. {Chairman.) Has there been any proposi-
tion from the Ballast Board as to the use of a dif-
ferent description of signal for the Kish Light ? — It
was proposed by the Ballast Board to have a gun.
226. What was the reason why that proposal was
not adopted ? — The Board of Trade, I am informed,
objected to it, lest it should be mistaken for the South
Stack gur..
227. Did the Ballast Board admit the justness of
that objection ? — Undoubtedly not.
228. Did they state to the Board of Trade their
difference of view ? — It was so extraordinary an ob-
jection that they could not imagine on what ground
it could be argued, as it implied a total ignorance by
the man navigating the channel of the points of the
compass — of his right hand from his left.
229. Can you inform this Commission whence the
desire for a gun, as a fog signal, for the Kish Light
originated? — The application came from the City of
Dublin Steam Packet Company.
230. That is a company, I believe, which runs its
vessels between Dublin, Holyhead, aud Liverpool ? —
Tes ; I believe they must have nearly a dozen vessels
between the Port of Dublin and Liverpool and Holy-
head running daily.
231. You are not aware that that company has
ever raemoralized the Board of Trade as to having a
gun for a fog signal at the Kish Light ? — I believe
they did.
232. (Mr. Gladstone.) Did the Trinity House
take any part in the question ? — No.
233. {Chairman to Sir James Dombrain.) You
have heard what Lord Meath has stated as to the ac-
cumulations of condemned oil at the various light-
houses, and the reasons stated by his lordship for
those accumulations. Have any steps been taken to
alter that state of things ? — Yes. On our last inspec-
tion we found that these accumulations were still
R
going on, and we reported specially to the Board one ^'- •^''"•
or two cases, and one particularly, namely, the Old ^'"'^ <'f ^I<^<^t^^-
Head of Kinsale, where stores had accumulated lor nDec isco
several years, and where a man was paid Is. or 8*. a '
week to take care of those old stores for about eight
years. In other cases we found, as wo went on, that
the old stores were not disposed of, and we took
upon ourselves, as the Inspecting Committee, in
order that this might be done aw.ay witli at once, to
direct the light keepers to get proposals for the
purchase of the old stores, if, in their opinion, the
estimates were fair — to accept the sums offered —
we thought it not worth while to let that state of
things remain any longer. We thought it a great
pity that they should be deteriorating every day,
and we desired them therefore to accept the highest
tenders that came, and to remit the amount im-
mediately to the Ballast Board. Of course Mr.
Halpin was called upon for an explanation as to
these accumulations, and Mr. Ilalpin stated that ho
had called on several occasions for tenders, but, in
consequence of their not coming up to the amount
which he thought the things ought to have realized,
he did not accept them, the power to accept or reject
them having also been with Mr. Halpin, and these
were matters which, in fact, were never brought be-
fore the Board at all.
234. {Captain Ri/der.) Are there still old stores
unsold at the exposed Rock stations ? — I believe
there are still some unsold, but I will not be positive
upon that point, because I think it is very likely that
Mr. Halpin may, since our inspection, have caused a
good many of them to be sold.
235. Are you aware at the Ballast Board of any
outstanding accounts in the matter of lighthouses ?
— On our last inspection we found, at three stations'
in particular, that there were outstanding accounts
and the first one was at Rathlin Oberine, and it wiis
about four years old ; they wore disputed accounts
by the superintendent, but we had not been informed
of their existence before.
236. {Chairman.) Has the superintendent a
balance in hand out of which to meet outstanding
accounts at whatever time they may be presented ? —
The Superintendent, in his annual estimates, pro-
vides for every contingency at each station, and if any
lapse in one year they are provided for in the next
estimates, consequently, whenever those accounts are
presented, he has the means of immediately certifying
them when they are paid ; they go to the Board
first.
237. {Captain Ryder to the Earl of Meath.) Are
there any lighthouses which the Ballast Board are
of opinion should be built without delay ? — There
is one very important point at which they would
desire to have a light, either on the Blaskets or
on the Foze, so as to lead ships from the south-
ward into the Shannon. We have placed the pro-
ject before the Trinity Board, and they have agreed
that a light should be placed there, and they hav«
recommended, in preference, the Foze.
238. What are the distinctive features of those two
sites ? — The Foze is an outlying rock of rotten con-
struction, and about 800 yards in circumference.
239. Is that the site that you proposed ? — We
recommend the Foze Rock, should it be found prac-
ticable to erect a lighthouse on it, but failing in that,
we suggest that one should be built on the outer
Blasket ; this i^and lies about one mile aud a half
inside the dangers, and rises nearly to a height of
200 feet above the sea. There is no doubi that
the Foze is the preferable site of the two, and as
the Trinity Board concurred in that view, our
superintendent sent a foreman to watch his oppor-
tunity to get on the rock ; ho remained there for
several months, and once effected a landing for
about a quarter of an hour, and he took a ground plan
of the rock, and brought off specimens of it. Our
superintendent is of opinion that before any light
could be erected on that rock, it would bo necessary
3
134
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Rt. Hon. to cut it down to nearly the surface of the sea ; he
Earl of Meatli. does not consider it altogether impossible to build a
tower on this rock, but it will be undoubtedly a work
11 Dec. ISGO. qC jJj^i. requiring the very highest engineering skill,
and a very great expenditure of money, and, I fear,
will be attended with great loss of life whilst building,
and when finished, if ever it is, a most insecure and
dangerous position for a light, and for the persons
who will have to attend it ; whereas on the outer
Blasket there will be but little ditiiculty or expense
in erecting and maintaining the buildings required.
240. {Captain Ri/der to Sir James Dombrain),
Has the Ballast Board received any application
from Galway for the improvement of the light
exhibited ou Mutton Island in that bay ? — Yes ; an
application was made by the Harbour Commissioners
of Galway to the Ballast Board to place a light ship
to mark the Marguerite rock in the entrance of Galway
Harbour. One of the Lever line of packets ran upon
it, and many ^^Tecks have taken place within the last
30 years. Another i)roposition was to alter and
improve the character of the Mutton Island light, the
Ballast Board fully concurred in the necessity, and
the Trinity Board agreed with them, but on an appli-
cation to the Board of Tratle they stated that as this
appeared to be for local purposes they would not
sanction it. Upon that subject I should say that I
think a much broader and more comprehensive view
ought to be taken by them generally with regard to
the coast of Ireland. There is very little trade on the
west coast of Ireland and all its harbours from which
you can draw any funds to keep up these lights,
buoys, or beacons, whilst the whole of the west coast
of Ireland is it seems calculated for asylum harbours,
and it is run for by vessels that get into distress, and
various things of that kind occur, and you cannot
look to local means to support lights, buoys, or
beacons. There are many cases — for example, in
Crookhaven, sometime ago, we recommended that
a beacon should be placed on the Alderman Rock
at the entrance to Crookhaven, but the Board of
Trade refused it on the ground that it was entirely
for local purposes. I then, on my individual res-
ponsibility, stated to the Board that I had seen as
many as 60 or 70 vessels, of many nations, at
anchor in Crookhaven ; it is a great port for vessels
caught by easterly winds, homeward bound, to make
for to wait a change of wind. I stated this, and the
Board thereupon put it very strongly to the Board of
Trade, who yielded at last, and sanctioned a beacon
being placed there. Since that, applications have
been made to the Board of Trade, and memorials
have been addressed to them from a number of in-
fluential persons in the country, and from the masters
of numerous vessels which were lately detained in
Crookhaven from stress of weather, urging upon their
lordships to allow the light to be removed from
Crookhaven to the Alderman Eock, upon the ground
that the cost of the beacon and the cost of the tower
to put the light upon would be so immaterial, and the
light being so very important, in consequence of the
extreme difficulty in distinguishing the Alderman
Rock at night, it being so low, whilst all the land
very near to it in the back ground is so high, and
they thought it might have been done at the same
time, as the one would be almost as expensive as
the other. Upon turning back to the oi-iginal
papers under which the light was erected at Crook-
haven, I found that the former superintendent, Mr.
Ilalpin, under whose direction it was built, stated
that there could be no question but that the Alderman
Rock was the better place for it, but he had his
doubts as to the solidity of that rock to bear a light-
house. Of course I assume now that Mr. Halpin, the
present engineer, must have satisfied himself of the
solidity of the rock, inasmuch as the beacon to be
placed upon it in all probability would he much
heavier than the tower for the light, because it is to
be a solid structure, and to cost 1.100/. or 1,200/.,
and one of the grounds upon which the Board oi
Trade had refused the application for the tower was
that the Alderman Rock was a tidal rock, but such
is not the case — the rock is at least 18 or 20 feet
above high water spring tides.
241. (C/iairmau.) You have mentioned an instance
in which the Board of Trade had declined to establish
a liglit for general purposes, considering it to be a
local light : are you aware of any difficulties occurring
in the matter of buoyage Irom a similar view being
taken by the Board of Trade ? — Perhaps, before I
answer the latter part of your question, I may refer
to another case, of vast importance in my opinion,
which is the Copeland Light. Very strong I'epre-
sentations were made to the Ballast Board and to the
Board of Trade upon the subject of that light and
fog bell, and a committee of the Board was appointed,
of which Lord Meath was chairman, they went down
and went most thoroughly into the subject with
the Belfast Harbour Commissioners, examining the
whole matter in the closest detail, and they came to
the determination that it was highly important and
necessary that the light should be lowered from the
Copeland and put upon the Mew Island, with a fog
bell to it. The Mew Island is an outlying danger, at
least a mile from the Copeland Island. More recently,
upon fresh representations being made to the Board
of Trade, the Elder Brethren were ordered to meet
the Committee of the Ballast Board, and to go down
to see how far they concurred in tlie view of the
committee which was appointed by our Board. We
met them there, and they went into the subject, and
also strongly recommended that our suggestion should
be carried out. The Board of Trade, however, say
that this is more a harbour light, and more for
Belfast than for the general trade, and that unless the
Belfast people arc prepared, by a tonnage upon ship-
ping, to contribute to the expense, they will not
sanction it. Now it is no more a harbour light than
any other light that I know upon the whole coast of
Ireland. It is a leading light for the Channel, the
great leading light for all vessels either coming into
the Channel or leaving it ; and a bell would be most
important, for that coast is very subject to fogs,
arising it is supposed from the very extensive back-
water of Strangford Lough. There is no question in
theworld that many a vessel would have been saved
had there been a light and a bell u])on Mew Island ;
but it remains now in that state that the Board of
Trade have said they would not grant it unless there
was a contribution from Belfast. The proposition of
the Board of Trade was that the Harbour Committee
of Belfast should contribute one third of the expense,
by means of levying an extra tonnage rate upon all
vessels going into their port, until that third was
raised ; and in that case the Board of Trade would
consent to defray the other two thirds. The Ballast
Board have again represented in as strong terms as
they could their opinion that this ought not by any
means to be considered as a local light, or that local
funds ought to be contributed towards it ; but not-
withstanding this strong expression of their views, it
has again been refused ; we can only regret that the
views and opinions of two such bodies as our own,
and the Trinity Board should have so little weight.
It should be remembered that the Ballast Board in
Ireland are looked upon by the Irish public as the
controlling body in matters of this kind ; and it cer-
tainly does occasion a considerable amount of dis-
satisfaction when their representations upon subjects
like this of great and important interest to the com-
merce of this country are disregarded.
242. Have there not been wrecks lately in the
neighbourhood of the Copeland Light ? — Immediately
on the Mew Island there have been, I believe, three
steamers lost upon it.
243. ( Captain liiplcr.) Recurring to your answer
with regard to the Mutton Island Light, it appears
that by the decision of the Board of Trade, however
much the trade of Galway may increase and however
important it may be for the Mutton Island Light to
be improved, the Mutton Island Light, being a
general light but in fact being treated by the Board
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS. BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
13e
of Trade as a local light, cannot be improved, but
must remain for ever an inferior light ? — The arrange-
ment entered into originally with the Board of Trade,
when the Irish Lighthouse establishment was placed
under their authority by the Merchant Shipping
Act, was this — that the Board of Trade agreed to
maintain all our existing harbour lights intact, but
would not sanction any fresh harbour lights, in-
volving increased expense, unless they were supported
by local contributions or by local means.
244. Has the decision of the Board of Trade with
regard to the Mutton Island Light been submitted to
the Harbour Commissioners of Galwiiy ? — Yes, it
has.
245. What was their reply ? — I do not think that
any reply was received from them, although c com-
munie.ition took place about two years since.
246. Was there not, at the time when the Board of
Trade received under the Merchant Shipping Act
the control over the Ballast Board, a large balance in
the hands of the Ballast Board ?— Yes, 100,000?.,
which was handed over to them.
247. For what purpose had that 100,000/. been
accumulated ? — For the purpose of placing additional
lights and additional buoys and beacons round the
coast ; it was to meet any expenditure of that kind
which may have been found necessarj'. And con-
sidering that the Board had about that period taken
a very deep interest, by its inspections round the
coast, they would have found abundant ways of em-
ploying that money most usefully for the benetit of
the trade of the country.
248. What sum of money has been laid out by the
Board of Trade, and what liabilities have been in-
curred by them up to the present date, for Irish
lighthouses ? —About 40,000/., including the Calf
Eock, the estimates for which have not yet been
allowed, although recommended by the Ballast Board,
amounting to 17,000/.
249. Had the 100.000/. of which you have spoken
remained in the hands of the Ballast Board what
works would you have undertaken which have not
been undertaken at present ? — It would be exceedingly
difficult to answer that question satisfactorily. Of
course if we had had the means we would have gone
perhaps rather in advance of the applications to us,
and have expended at least the interest arising from
that sum, which was from 3 to 4,000/. a year; on going
round the coast, as we have done as a committee of
inspection, we have seen many things that it would
be very desirable to do on general public grounds,
but which we know, unless applications were got up
to the Board of Trade, and they proved to be questions
of general utility, they would not be listened to. We
would have taken many things in hand, I have no doubt,
a vast number of things, as to the marking of the coast
in various ways by buoys and beacons, whi eh would
have been of very great general utility ; but, knowing
how we stand with the Board of Trade, we could not
submit any one of these things to them under existing
circumstances, particularly with respect to llumina-
ting and marking harbours of refuge.
250. What are the principal harbours of refuge on
the coast of Ireland ? — I will begin from Dublin and
take Waterford.
251. Is that, as a harbour of refuge, well lighted
and marked ? — Xo: it is not.
252. What does it require to complete it as a harbour
of refuge ? — It requires either a light or a beacon on
the spit near Passage ; it was lately applied for, and
the Trinity Board did not concur with the Ballast
Board in the necessity of it, inasmuch as they con-
sidered it was local, and not necessary for the general
shipping, but I entirely differ in that view. The next
are Crookhaven and Long Island. Very recently
the Board of Trade have referred to us an applica-
tion to place a beacon at Long Island, at the east
end.
253. Is there any local trade there that is benefited
by that beacon ? —Very trifling indeed.
254. Had there been a local trade there that would ^'- ^on.
have been benefited by that beacon do you think, ^"''^ "f Meath.
jndging from your experience as to other applications, jj iw~io«o
that the Board of Trade would have consented to "
placing beacons there ? — No ; I think they would
have refused it.* The next harbour is Berehaven —
that is a very important one.
255. What are the marks there r — There is a light
at the eastern entrance on Rhuancarrig, and a beacon
tower at the western entrance, so constructed that it
can be at any time converted into a lighthouse tower;
and I think it would be very important, when the
Calf is lighted, that that light should be exhibited to
show the other entrance — the second entrance into
Berehaven.
256. It is a considerable harbour of refuge, is it
not ? — Yes.
257. Has any application been made with respect
to that ? — No. There were applications originally
about placing a beacon tower there, and we did that; we
built that at a cost, I suppose, of about 1,000/., and there
it stands at present. The next is a part of the coast
where I have known vessels take refuge on three or
four occasions, and very large vessels ; but it is a port
very little known; it is the Kenmare River. There are
two harbours in it, the harbour of Sneem and
Kilmichaelogue, two remarkably good anchorages,
and which, 1 think, it would be very desirable, inex-
pensively, to mark by beacons — small beacons, which
Vt-ould cost very little indeed, and still they might be
highly serviceable.
258. Has any application been made upon that sub-
ject ? — No ; I do not think there has been ; but these
are things, as I said before, which, if we had had the
means at our own disposal, the Committee, going
round and seeing the utility of them, would have had
no hesitation whatever in doing. The next is Valentia,
which was well marked previous to the passing of the
Merchant Shipping Act ; that is pretty well
defined, and more especially it will be if a light
be jilaced, as recommended, upon either the Foze
or the Blaskets. It would bo great leading light
for the Shannon as well as a general coast light.
After leaving Galway there are several safety har-
bours, in which vessels occasionally take refuge.
For example, there is Caslah Bay ; that I do
consider a very important one. There is one
beacon upon a rock at the entrance of it. It has
plenty of water — seven fathoms — and it is one which
we would have marked more distinctly than it
is at present, had it been under our control. After
that, is Black Sod Bay, where we very lately
recommended beacons to be put, but it was refused
upon the usual ground that it was local, and must
be kept up by local means. Then, after that, you
come to a harbour of refuge, called Broad haven,
which was well marked previously to the passing of
the Merchant Shipping Act. The Bay of Killybegs,
in like manner, is well marked. Lough Swilly is
greatly improved l)y the buoys which have recently
been placed there under the authority of the Board
of Trade, on the recommendation of the Inspecting
Committee,because it was a harbour of refuge. With
regard to Lough Foyle, a proposition was laid before
us the other day by the Londonderry Harbour Com-
missioners to be allowed to improve their harbour by
putting up another light inside and within their juris-
diction, which we have consented to. But the Tuns
buoy remains under no person's charge. The Local
Board deny that it is under their jurisdiction, and, con-
sequently, if it is washed away it will not be replaced.
Then we come to Larne, which was well marked pre-
viously to the passing of the Mercantile Shipping Act,
• Next to Crookhaven is Dunmanns Bay, in which there is
very safe and secure anchorage above Carberry Island. I luive
known two or three very bad wrecks, with great loss of property
occur from the want of a beacon to guide vessels to the above
anchorage.
R4
136
MTXTTEi? OF EYIDEN'CE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOIKTED TO
Bt Hon '^ntl *'i<^° ^o Belfast, as to vi'liich there is a great qucs-
Earlof Meath. tion now about the Copolaiid. Belfast is most decidedly
a harbour of reiuge, and the light is one unqucstion-
11 Dec. 1 SCO. ably for general purposes. I do not think that we
can call any others harbours of refuge, inasmuch as
they are tidal down to Dublin. Strangford and Car-
lingford are both tidal harbouis, and therefore cannot
fairly be considered harbours of refuge.
259. Are the Commissioners to understand that the
Board of Trade, as a general rule, have no objection
to marking and buoying bays, which may be con-
sidered, or which may serve as Harbours of Refuge,
provided there is no port inside them, but that they
refuse always to li^bt those harbours ? — Having ex-
perienced so much difiiculty in getting harbours of
refuge marked and buoyed, we have not applied for
lights, knowing that they would be refused.
260. Has the Ballast" Board any intention to pro-
pose the erection of any beacon on the Coneybegs
Rock ? — No, I believe not. We think that a light
vessel there is be the best way of marking it.
261. What were the circumstances attending tho
application from the Ballast Board for permission to
place a buoy on the Korth Briggs ? —
262. ( To the Earl of Meath.) ^Yl)en I visited
Limerick I was informed that within the last 20
years all the buoys, amounting to more than 20 in
number, which marked the estuary of the Shannon,
had been gradually washed away, and never replaced,
leaving the numerous dangers and shoals in that
estuary entirely unmarked. Will you refer to Section
394 of the Merchant Shipping Act, and say whether
the Ballast Board has not power under that clause to
insist upon the Local Board at Limerick replacing
such of those buoys as are within the line of juris-
diction marked out by their Act of Tarliament ? —
I was not aware of the power given to the Light-
Louse Boards in the United Kingdom by that sec-
tion of the Act, and I have strong doubts whether
that authority has ever been exercised by the Ballast
Board.
263. Are you of opinion upon perusing that clause
that the Ballast Board has the power Avhich I have
spoken of ? — It appears to me very clearly that they
have the power.
264. {Chairman.) You stated, I think, that you
were not aware of the existence of such a power as is
given in those sections. Is there any law adviser
now attached to tho Ballast Board, or is there any
professional person to whom you habitually refer in
any case in which you have doubts as to your power
of actiou ? — We have a solicitor, and we take tho
opinion of the Attorney-General for the time being
on any difficult point of law which may present
itself.
265. {Captain Ih/der.) Can you recall the circum-
stances attending the loss of the yacht belonging to
the Marquis of Drogheda off tho Harbour of Sligo ? —
I recollect the occurrence. He had got the last
Admiralty Chart on board, on which was marked a
buoy to show a bank at the entrance of the river,
and he, on a line morning, went in to look for this
buoy, and in looking for the buoy he got on the bank
where his yacht was lost, the buoy having been
washed away two or three years before and never
having been replaced. This buoy was under the
jurisdiction of the Harbour Commisssioners of
Sligo.
266. Ought those Harbour Commissioners to have
reported tothe Ballast Board at Dublin tho circum-
stances of their having abandoned any intention to
replace that buoy ? — I believe there is nothing re-
quiring them to do tliat.
267. {Chairman to Hir Jatnes Dombrain.) Have
any communications passed between tho Admiralty
and the Ballast Board on the subject of the Roche's
Point Light, or upon any other subjects connected
with lights ? — I recollect, upon the subject of the
Roche's Point Light, tluit a communication was made
from tlie Admiral at Q\ieenstown ; but, prior to that,
a strong rccommendatiou had liecu made to the
Ballast Board, upon the necessity of a light between
Roche's Point and the Hook Tower, and the Board
upon that representation — immediately took measures
for placing a light on Cable Island ; they entered
into contracts for it, and a part of the tower is at this
moment standing ; this was previous to the passing
of the ilercantile Marine Act.
268. Were the communications upon this subject
between the Ballast Board and the Admiralty? — Yes;
and they represented it very strongly, and, as I have
stated already, it had so far progressed that part of
the tower is at this moment standing on Cable
Island. They took the land, and they commenced
building the tower, when some representations wero
made to the Admiralty by the merchants of Cork,
and the Admiralty immediately communicated with
the Ballast Board, and recommended, instead of the
one light on Cable Island, that there should be two
lights — one on Ballycotton Island, and the other
on Jlinehead ; and upon that representation those
two lighthouses were built.
269. The light dues on coasting vessels, including
vessels navigating between English and Irish porls,
and navigating tlie English Channel as well as tho
Irish Channel, have been very greatly reduced, have
they not ? — They have been greatly reduced, and
they always were much lower in Ireland than it
either England or Scotland.
270. But that would not affect them in the English
vovago, where thev had to pay English dues upen
English lights ?— Xo.
271. Is it still the case that vessels, having any
weight on board at all, not strictly ballast, are obliged
to pay lisht dues ? — It is a subject that has very
frequently been brought under our notice, and only
the other dav we were obliged to inflict a fine upon a
merchant in Dublin for taking what he called
dunnage, but which was evidently in lieu of taking
the ballast of the Corporation, because every vessel
taking in ballast is bound to take it from the Ballast
Board, and this person, in shipping fifty or sixty
jars of vitriol managed to take fifty or sixty tons
of dross from his vitriol works which he called
merely dunnage ; but when he got over to AVhite-
haven, the place to which the vessel was going, he
paid a man sixpence a ton to discharge this from his
Tessol into the sea, and that came to our knowledge,
and we found it necessary to summon him and tho
captain of the vessel, and we inflicted a penalt_y of 10/.
upon him, as it was an evasion of the law as to taking
ballast.
272. Are the Commissioners to understand that a
vessel carrying anything but ballast would bo charge-
able with light dues ? — Yes ; having any cargo.
273. Has not that law been found to operate
prejudicially upon vessels which would come back
witli small and perhaps remunerative cargoes but for
having to pay the light dues ? — No ; I do not think
it would operate in that way. We have frequent
instances coming before us of vessels claiming ex-
emption from light dues from various causes ; for
example, a vessel may come in for a market with
potatoes, and she cannot make her market, and there
she is subject to light dues ; but we remit them in
cases of that kind, and every leniency that the Board
can show is shown towards trade in those respects.
It is not their wish to enforce heavy dues for merely
trifling things, and it constantly occurs that we remit
those dues.
274. Would it not act slightly in this way, that
whereas Ireland is essentially an exporting country,
from the nature of its produce it would become to a
greater extent an importing country if vessels were
allowed to bring in a small portion of cargo without
having to pay light dues on their whole tonnage ? — T
think it would be exceedingly difiicult to draw the
line to know what would bo a fair proportion on
a vessel, tho tonnage of which would be, say sixty
tons, and so on ; as the tonnage rises you would have
to have a sliding scale, showing how much you would
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, lilTOYS, AND BEACONS.
137
allow each vessel to carry without paying light dues.
275. If you could establish arainimuni freight upon
■which no light dues were to be charged, do you think
that that would be a benefit to the owners of the
coasting vessels ? — Unquestionably to that extent it
would he, but the light dues are so exceedingly light
that I do not thin!-; it would operate at all upon the
trade.
276. {Coptdin Ri/der.) How many keepers are
there at Roche's Point ? — Only one.
277. What arc his instructions for night work, as
to remaining awake ? — He is expected to remain
awake the whole night.
278. Even during the whole winter's night of 15
hours ? — Yes.
279. Do you think it possible that one man can do
his duty properly through so long a period at night ?
—Certainly not ; and upon our last inspection wo
urged upon the Superintendent to pay again the
money the lightkceper had paid for a person to assist
him during the previous winter, and we also urged
upon the Superintendent, upon next preparing his
estimates, to provide for an occasional assistant, at
all events for the winter.
280. Are there any other such lights on the coast
of Ireland, with only one keeper ? — There are several
lights with only one keeper, but not one of the im-
portance that that is.
281. Then there are some lights so unimportant
that the men in charge of them may go to bed ? — I
cannot say that ; I should be very sorry to say that
as to any light, but I mean that they are not of that
very important character that Roche's Point is, in
8uch cases the Lightkeeper's family assist him.
282. How then is the duty performed when there
is no family ? — We are careful to place men who have
families where there is only one keeper employed.
283. Are you of opinion that it is right that there
should be only one ligluhouse keeper at any light-
house under your Board ? — Certainly I am of opinion
that there ought to be two, and I believe that that is
the opinion of every one of the members of the
Inspecting Committee ; but, under the regulation
under which the harbour lights were to be maintained
in their integrity as they stood by the Board of
Trade, we feel that we could not well ask them to
grant another keeper, because they would immediately
say, that is an increased expense that was never
contemplated, it entered into no part of our bargain.
284. {Mr. Gladstone.) How many keepers are
thereat the rock stations ? — We have just succeeded
in getting permission fi-om the Board of Trade to
have a third man always present at a rock station,
where the families are not aisle to be accommodated ;
the only exception is the Black Rock in the entrance
to Sligo, the reason being that it was too near the
mainland.
285. How long were you in obtaining that permis-
sion ? — I think we had been applying for it for three
joars,
286. {Chairman to the Earl of Meath.) Your
correspondence has been, I presume, considerably
enlarged, from the jurisdiction under which you are
now placed, namely, that of the Board of Trade ? —
It has been very much augmented.
287. {Captain Ri/dcr.) Does it require any addi-
tion to your staff ? — Occasionally we are obliged to
get in additional help, but the whole subject has been
referred to the committee, to see in what manner the
generally increased work can be fairly apportioned
amongst the subordinate clerks, and what additional
assistance may be required.
288. ( To Sir James Dombraiii.) Is there any
system of signals used ? — They have now been sanc-
tioned by the Board of Trade, and orders have been
given to carry tliem out.
289. Has there been any application to the Ballast
Board to show tidal .signals at the Hook Lighthouse ?
—Not an_v.
290. {Mr. Gladstone to the Earl of Mcath.) Y"ou
have been speaking of many large questions, such
I.
as the erection of lighthouses ; do those questions lit- l^on.
come before the whole of the Port of Dublin Corpo- Earl of Meath
ration or before the Committees ? — Before the whole ,, t. ;„^„
lioarcl. Hie Visiting Committees make a report on
all subjects that may come under their observation to
the Board as soon as they return, and they daily in
their lour round the lights constitute themselves into
a Board, and put down their observations seriatum on
all points ; having done that, they make a resume of
that in the shape of a report, but both their daily
observations and the report are given on their return
to the whole Board.
291. What proportion of the time of the General
Board of the Port of Dublin Corporation is given to
the subject of lighthouses, buoys and beacons ? — We
meet twice a week in Dublin ; one day in the week
is devoted exclusively to lighthouse business, i'.nd the
other day to the Port of Dublin business.
{Sir James Domhrain.) I would add to what Lord
Jleath has stated, that we have other committees ; for
instance the Inspecting Committee and various others,
and anything that may occur, almost everything
upon the coast that has been reported upon by them,
and anything that arises upon it, is all referred back
to the Committees, and if there is any question, then
the Committee meet and report again to the Board ;
and in this way the time of some of the members is
almost wholly occupied.
292. {Captain liyder.') In a case of emergency
who is it that acts ? — The Board are specially sum
moncd in any case of emergency.
( The Earl of Meath.) A Board can be formed any
day of the week as there are so many members who
live in town within call.
(.S'(> James Domhrain.) Frequent special Boards
are summoned.
{The Earl of Mcath.) And besides that, members
of the Board call in constantly during the week
to see what is going on, and to hear what commu-
nications may have been forwarded to the office since
the last day of meeting.
293. {Mr. Gladstone.) If any scientific improve-
ments are suggested to the Corporation, to whom are
such questions referred — suppose for example that the
Electric Light were suggested ? — To the whole
Board, and it would be discussed before the whole
Board.
294. Have you any scientific gentleman speciallj
attached to the Board ? — As such, we have none.
295. Do you know whether any experiments of a
scientific character are made ? — Only by the Super-
intendent.
296. {Chairman.) Would that be under the
directions of the Board ? — Yes.
297. {Mr. Gladstone.) Arc you aware of any par-
ticular experiments which the Superintendent has
either been directed to make, or has himself ori-
ginated ?
{Sir James Domhrain.) I think there have been
some; for instance, the intermitting light, and things
of that kind ; they originated with the Superintendent,
and a great deal of machinery has been invented by
him and improved upon. Before concluding, may I
be permitted to add, that I am anxious to bear my
testimony to the general good character of the light-
keepers ; complaints are very rare, their families are
as well brought up as their means will admit, and
they appear extremely grateful to the Board for their
consideration, in supplying them with small libraries
for their instruction and edification. The Board
have also been induced to recommend to the Board of
Trade to allow the men for medical attendance, and
to sanction a plan of life insurance on the same prin-
ciple as is at present allowed lightkeepers under the
Trinity Board. Directions have also been given for
improvement in the present dwellings of the light-
keepers, although I am sorry to say in this respect
their intentions will in future be counteracted by the
Board of Trade. In the houses which are to be
built for the lightkeepois for the Calf Rock, the ac"
comniedaliou that our Bo.ird proposed to give the
S
138
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFOEB THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Jtt. Hon.
Earl uf Mealli.
keepers has been eireumseribed by the Board of
Trade. I think this extremely injudicious ; the men
are phiced in most remote situations, thrown entirely
on their own resources for society, and generally with
large families. Every comfort therefore, consistent
with their position should be readily accorded to
them, and, above all, ample room for their large
families, in some instances consisting of 10 or 12
children.
298. {Chairman to the Earl of Meath.) Have you
ever had any difficulty in making a Board ? — None
whatever. We are an unpaid Board ; and yet, to my
certain knowledge, but two instances have occurred
during the last eight years, when a sufficient number
of members did not attend to form a Board on the
regular day of meeting ; and in both instances special
meetings were held on the following days.
299. You have heard the evidence given by Sir
James Dombrain, do you concur generally in the
tenour of that evidence ? — I do thoroughly.
300. (To Sir James Dombrain.) You have heard
the evidence given by Lord Meath, do you concur in
all that has fallen from him? — Quite so.
Adjourned till Thursday nest at 12 o'clock.
T. 11. Far
Tuesday, 18th December 1860,
rr.ESEXT : '
Eear-Admiral William Alex.us'der Baillie Hamilton, R.N.
Captain Alfued Phillips Ryder, R.N.
Junx Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Samuel Robert Graves, Esq.
Rear- Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton in the Chair,
Thomas Henry Faerek, Esq., (Secretary of the Marine Department of the Board of Trade,) further examined,
a right decision upon particular cases relating to
lighthouse control and management, and the course
taken on such occasions was to some extent specified
by the President of the Board of Trade. Do you
recollect Mr. Milner Gibson's statement on that point?
— Yes, I have a general recollection of it.
309. Are you aware whether in the case of Mr.
Gordon's original estimate of 18,689/. for a light-
house on the Great Basses that that estimate was
referred to any of the lighthouse authorities for their
opinion ? — I think perhaps I had better say, in the
first instance, that, as I understood Mr. Milner
Gibson on the last occasion, he was referring rather
to the duties which the Board of Trade has to per-
form in connexion with the other lighthouse boards
than to the executive work wich they may have
had to do with regard to colonial lighthouses.
With regard to colonial lighthouses, which they them-
selves erect, of course they are obliged to employ
professional persons, and, so far as the professioufd
work is concerned, of course they must be guided by
the advice of those professional persons whom they
employ. In that respect the executive duties the
Board of Trade performs with regard to colonial light-
houses diffi-r from the duties which they perform in
controlling the expenditure of the three lighthouse
boards. With regard to the particular question re-
lating to the Great Basses, I should mention, in the first
place, that the person who could have given the fullest
information upon this subject is unfortunately gone,
Admiral Beechey. I have personally but a limited
knowledge of all that passed on that occasion, for
there was a great deal of work in the Board of
Trade connected with the Merchant Shipping Act
at that time which occupied me, and I am not able to
give a full or detailed account of all that passed
between Admiral Beechey and the different persons
whom he and Lord Stanley of Alderley consulted
with respect to the Great Basses. But I happen to
know that Admiral Beechey did consult a great many
persons upon the subject of the Great Basses Light-
house. I know, for instance, that he was in constant
communication with the late Deputy Master of the
Trinity House about it. There was no official com-
munication with the Trinity House, for the obvious
reason that if we had referred to the Trinity
House officially they would have told us that they
could, if we pleased, oV>tain for us a report from Mr.
Walker on the subject, and we should then only
have been having one engineer criticising the work
of another, a thing which I believe no professional
person likes, and certainly a thing which engineers do
not like, and which would never end well. But
Admiral Beechey did consult the Deputy blaster
of the Trinity House, and many other experienced
301. (Chairman.) Is the President of the Board of
Trade unable to attend to-day? — He has just wTitten
to me to say that he is ill, and will l)e much obliged
if the Commissioners will postpone his examination.
302. Since you favoured us with your evidence on
the 7th instant, the Board of Trade have been so
good as to furnish this Commission with a precis of
the case of the Great Basses Lighthouse. That is a
case with which, I presume, you, as Marine Secretary
of the Board of Trade, must be more or less ac-
quainted ? — Yes.
303. It would appear from the paper sent to the
Commissioners, that since 1855 more than 40,000/.
have been expended for the purpose of erecting a
lighthouse on the Great Basses, and yet that there is
no apparent intention to erect any lighthouse there ;
that in fact directions have been given by the Board
of Trade for the sale of the materials already sent
out to Ceylon, and that the Board of Trade are
waiting for a report from the Governor of Ceylon
before taking the final steps to establish floating
lights off the Great Basses ?— Yes.
304. Are you in a position to state what the actual
sum is that has been expended for the purposes of
erecting a lighthouse on the Great Basses ? — I can-
not state it with certainty, because some of the ac-
counts of the resident engineer are not yet finally
settled, and because we do not know whether the
materials and lighting apparatus which have been
sent out are sold or not, or what they will fetch ; but
I believe we may put the total expense at somewhere
between 40,000/. and 50,000/.
305. I observe in the return sent from the Board
of Trade on the 5th of July 1859, that the original
estimate for the cost of the Great Basses is put at
33,916/.; would it not be better if it were entered in
this return as an amended estimate ? — Yes, I think
it would. It was put there as the original estimate
upon which the Board of Trade undertook the work.
A previous estimate was gi\en by Mr. Gordon for a
smaller sum, but the plan upon which that estimate
•was based was considered not satisfactory. After a
great deal of discussion between Admiral Beechey
and the various persons whom lie consulted on the
subject, the original plan was enlarged, and the con-
sequence was an increased estimate.
306. ( Captain Ryder.) What was the amount of
the original estimate ? — The original estimate given
to the Board of Traile with the plans was 18,689/.
307. {Mr. Graves.) You allude to Mr. Gordon's
estimate ? — I allude to the first estimate Mr. Gordon
gave us with his original plans.
308. {Chairman.) In Mr. Milner Gibson's answer
on a former occasion mention was made of the means
at the disj)osal of the Board of Trade for coining to
INQFIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
139
]icrsous. Ho w.as very anxious about tlicse plans of
Mr. Gordon, and was for weeks constantly discussing
tliera witli Mr. Gordon, and consulting tlie Deputy
Master and other competent persons about tliem.
His private papers, wlucli would no doubt show muck
that he did, are not with us ; l)ut I see from notes
on the official jiapers that on particular points ho
had conversations with and consulted Sir Roderick
Jlurchison and Mr. Walker. I see that, for instance,
he took their advice about the stones to bo used. I
know, in short, though I cannot give the particulars,
(hat Admiral licecliey bestowed a great deal of labour
and thouglit upon lliese plans, and got all the informa-
lion that he could. What that information was, and
what that advice was, there is nobody now living''!
lielieve who can say ; but I think it is obvious, from
the very fact that Mr. Gordon's original plan, which
was to cost 18,689/.. was, by the intervention of
the Board of Trade, raised to 33,000/. or 34,000/.,
that some pains were taken in criticising Mr. Gordon's
original plan.
310. Do you recollect the amount that was in-
cluded in the amended estimate for the steamer,
which Mr. Gordon had not considered necessary ? —
I believe that the 15,000/. by which the estimate
was increased, is due to the addition of the cost of the
steamer, and to the substitution of a stone basement
to the tower for an iron one.
311. (Mr. Graves.) By whose recommendation
was it that the iron basement, which appeai'ed to be
in the original plan of Mr. Gordon, was changed for
a stone basement ? — It was certainly done liy Lord
Stanley of Alderley's direction, and no doubt on
Admiral Beechey's recommendation. But who further
advised Admiral Beechey on this point I cannot say
with ccrtaint3\ I know that there was a great deal
of consultation aliout it, especially with the late
Dejiut)^ Master of the Trinity House ; but I cannot,
as I said before, tell you all the steps that were gone
through, or all the persons who were consulted about
it. T happen to know that there was great discussion
upon the character of the stone to be used ; that Darley
Dale stone was proposed ; that Sir Roderick Murchi-
son and Mr. Walker were consulted as to whether
that stone w.as a proper stone ; and that it was decided
that granite, although more expensive, was preferable.
312. {Chairman.) Would it be convenient for you
to produce the letter of the 15tliof September 1855,
!Mr. Gordon's first report, which would naturally in-
clude plans and estimates ? — Certainly. I will put
in a cojiy of all these papers. (Here the witness put
in a paper marked A. ) I will also send to the Com-
missioners the original drawings and plans ; but these
last we should be glad to have back again.
313. I conclude that the Board of Trade, exercising
a controlling power in lighthouse matters, were aware
of the cost of the erection of certain lighthouses in
these islands having some analogy to that to be
erected on the Great Basses, such as the vSkerry Vorc
Lighthouse on the west coast of Scotland, which cost
in round numbers 90,000/., the Bell Rock, on the
east coast of Scotland, which cost in round num-
bers 61,020/., and others. It would be natural, I
presume, to compare' the estimate sent in for a light-
house on the Great Basses with the cost of such
lighthouses as I have mentioned. Do yoii know
whether any such reference was made to the cost of
previously erected lighthouses ? — I have not the
slightest doubt that it was, although I have no recol-
lection at all upon that subject. As I have said before,
I do not know all that passed, but I have not the
slightest doubt that such reference was made. It
was one of the things on which Mr. Gordon prided
lliIn^^elf, that by means of his iron work he was en-
al.iled to do works of this description much more
cheaply than they had been done by other boards. I
should mention that any very slight difference in the
circinnstanccs, such as the height of the rocks out of
the water, &c., will make all the difference in the
comparative cost of a work of this description.
314. It would appear that subsequently to Jnlv
J 858 the Governor of Ceylon represented to the
Board of Trade that he considered Mr. Gordon's
estimate of the probable cost of what remained to be
done for erecting the light as far too low, and that
Mr. Gordon had understated the time in which the
work could bo completed, and that in a subsequent
despatch the Governor states that Mr. Poingdestro
had informed him that he esliinali'<l the yearly expen-
diture, including a steamer at 2(),()()0/., and the dura-
tion, of the work at five years ; that he the Governor
had gone carefully into the grounds of this computa-
tion and was satisfied that they were substantially
correct. The Governor also expresses a belief that
had the difficulties of the work been properly under-
stood it would never have been commenced; but that
nobody knew them, and that many of the facts which
had been gathered were the results of recent experi
ence. Have I stated the case accurately ? — That is
what the Governor stated.
315. It would appear, then, upon this, that the
Board of Trade wrote to the Governor, informing
him that steps involving further expenses must be
delayed until the Governmeut had determined what
course to take. Do the papers now sent to the Com-
missioners show precisely what the course is that the
Government do intend to take, or have any fresh
steps been taken since Noveniber last, which is the
date of the papers sent to the Commissioners ? — All
the papers that we have had recently, that is to say,
the accounts of the Admiralty survey, confirm
Captain Sulivan's opinion, that the proper mode of
lighting these dangers will be by lightvessels ; but
no final steps have been taken, or can be taken, until
the Board of Trade receives the Governor's report
giving a detailed estimate of the cost of building light-
vessels in Ceylon or at Bombay, and a report on
the mode of communicating with the lightvessels
when established, and on the cost of maintaining them.
316. (Captain Ryder.) How is Mr. Gordon, the
engineer, paid, who was employed to make the esti-
mates ; by a fee, or by a commission on the estimates ?
—By a commission on the outlay.
317. (Chairman.) I see by the return sent to the
Commissioners from the Board of Trade on the 5th
July 1859, that the list of the lighthouses in the
colonies, under the control of the Board of Trade,
then in course of erection, ends with the Great
Basses. Are there at this moment any other light-
houses, either in course of erection or for which
estimates have been prepared, that are not included
in that list, or is it in contemplation to erect any
other lighthouses in our colonies ? — There are some
lighthouses in some foreign countries which are
needed for the wants of British trade, towards the
erection of which the English Goverment are afford-
ing foreign and distant governments assistance, more
particularly by supplying the lighting apparatus, and
in some cases engineering help. The expense of course
is brought before Parliament in the annual votes. I
may mention the Cani Rocks off Tunis, and three
lighthouses now in course of erection by the Egyptian
Government in the Red Sea. There are also certain
other lighthouses for which the Board of Trade have
supplied or are supplying the lighting apparatus ; for
instance, those in Vancouver's Island. There are
also certain other colonial lighthouses contemplated ;
in the Bahamas.
318. Can you furnish the Commission with the
names of any of the engineers who are employed at
present by the Board of Trade on distant service
connected with lighthouses ? — The engineer employed
on the Red Sea lighthouses is Mr. Parkes, a pupil of
Mr. Walker, who was recommended by him to the
Board of Trade as the resident engineer for the
erection of the Cerigo Lighthouse, who subsequently
worked for the East Indian Government at Kurrachee,
and is now in the Red Sea, superintending the com-
mencement of the three lighthouses there. He made
the original plans and estimates in the case of the Red
Sea lighthouses. The Cerigo Lighthouse was built
according to the plans of Mr. Walker, the Trinity
House engineer. The Great Isaacs Lighthouse wa
planned by the Admiralty, the Cay Lobos Lighthouse
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
S 2
HO
MIXUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIOXERS AFPOINTED To
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
18 Dec. 18G0.
by Sir. Gordon. Both these -n-orks were very satis-
factorily carried on by Mr. Scott, C.E., as resident
engineer under Mr. Gordon. He has just come
home. Sir. Harvey, the colonial engineer, will
probably be emplo^-ed in constructing any further
lighthouses in the Bahamas. At the Cape of Good
Hope Mr. Cousens is employed as clerk of the works
under Mr. Gordon to carry out Mr. Gordon's plans
for the Roman Rocks and Cape Point lighthouses.
.319. {Mr. Grarcs.) In giving orders for the light-
ing apparatus for a lighthouse to be erected out of
the Imperial funds, who is it in your department who
submits plans and specifications for the inspection of
the parties who make the tenders ? —The plans and
drawings are prepared by the engineer who has the
conduct of the work, if the engineer is employed
by the Board of Trade. lu certain cases the Board
of Trade have asked for the assistance of the Trinity
House, and then plans are prepared in the same
manner in which the ordinary Trinity House plans
are prepared. In .ill cases the api)aratus is inspected
by Professor Faraday before it is finally accepted.
320. Has the illuminating apparatus for the
colonial lighthouses been generally supplied by one
firm, or have several firms contributed to the supply
of the apparatus ? — As a general principle, the Board
of Trade have been anxious to obtain as much com-
petition as possible, and they have required tjtders
from the three or four firms which make this apparatus.
On particular occasions, where time has pressed, or
where there have been other special reasons, they have
been content to go to one of the known makers, the
prices being pretty" well ascertained, and the lowest
price for similar apparatus obtained on some previous
occasion being t.iken as .a guide.
321. In the case of the lighting apparatus required
for the Red Sea lights, was it publicly advertised
for ? — We never advertise for lighting apparatus,
because there are only four or five firms in the world
that make the apparatus, but we send the specifica-
tions to those firms, and get tenders from them.
322. Then has the lighting apparatus been supplied
by one or other of these well-known makers? — I
think it has all been supplied l)y one or other of those
makers.
323. In purchasing oil and stores for the illumin.v
tion of a colonial lighthouse, do you invite puldic
tenders for them ? — The oil, which is the principal
thing, is always obtained from the Trinitv House ;
they obtain their large .supply of oil by public adver-
tisements in the usual way, and they supply us with
any quantity of oil that we want for colonial light-
houses, and then we settle accounts with them.
324. {Captain Ryder.) Do you find much difterence
in the tenders for supplying illuminating apparatus
which are sent in by those two or three firms of
which you have spoken ? — The best way of answering
this question will be to put in a paper showing the
amoutits of the several tenders for lanterns and light-
ing apparatus in a few recent cases. There was one
curious case in which one of the Lighthouse Boards
pressed the Board of Trade to allow a certain maker
to have the contract at the price of 1,527/. with-
out competition. The Board of Trade insisted on
competition. Six firms were invited to tender, and the
same maker who had previously asked 1,527/. sent
in the lowest tender and obtained the contract at the
price of 1,382/., thus illustrating the importance of
such competition as is practicable. {The witness here
put in the paper marked B.)
325. Is it not probable when the competition is so
limited that there may be an understanding between
those firms as to the ))rices which they shall fix ? — I
should think it i)riibabh\ judging a priori.
326. {Mr. Gladstone.) In what shape is the speci-
fication for the illuminating apparatus for colonial
lighthouses drawn up ? — I can furnish the Commis-
sioners with a specimen.
327. What is the course pursued by the Board of
Trade in ordering the lenticular illuminating appara-
tus for a new site from the manufacturers ; and will
you have the goodness to furnish the Commissioners
with copies of theplans and specifications, &c. actually
submitted to the manufacturers in ordering the last
two sets of lenticular apparatus, of a large size, or of
peculiar forms, which have been purchased ? — I will
put in four sj)ecifications for dioptric lights apparatus ;
viz., for Lobos Cay, by 5Ir. Gordon, and for the
three lighthouses in the Red .Sea by ^Ir. Parkes.
{Tlie leitness here put in the papers marked C.)
328. {Mr. Graves.) Can you state the gross an-
nual amount voted b)' Parliament during the past
five years for the erection of colonial lighthouses,
including grants to foreign governments for light-
houses ? — I i>ut this in. ( The witness here put in the
printed estimates marked D.)
329. Can you also state the amount of dues levied
for colonial lights erected under the Merchant Ship-
ping Amendment Act of 1855 ? — Cape Race is the
only case in which dues have been levied.
330. Is the amount received at Cape Race sufS-
ciently large to lead to a greater extension of the
system of lev3'ing tolls ? — There is a good deal to be
said pro and con in that matter. On the one hand,
if the shipping pay for a light there will be greater
facilities on the part of the Home Government in
getting the necessary lights erected ; and the ques-
tion whether the shipping interest is willing to pay
is a good test of the real utility of a light. On the other
haml, there are not many places in the colonies in
which snch a system can be applied without the ob-
jection that the tax so taken is a tax upon trade to
British ports, which does not fall upon the trade to
foreign ports.
331. {Mr. Graves.) It has come to the knowledge
of this Commission that in the matter of colouring
buoys the Board of Trade has overruled the opinions
of the Ballast Board ; will you point out (he section in
the Merchant Shipping Act under which this control
is exercised ? — I presume it must be uuJcr either the
406th or the 408th section of the Act. The action
of the Board of Trade generally arises where there is
n difterence between the Trinity House generally and
the Scotch or Irish Board, and I believe has only been
exercised in such cases.
332. ( Chairman.) I understand you to s.ay that it
is oiilv where a difterence of opinion exists between
the Scotch and Irish Boards and the Trinity House
that the action of the Board of Trade arises ; but I
think it would appear from the coriesiwndence fur-
nished to this Commission that in the matter of light-
ing the passage between Islay and Colonsay the
Board of Trade did insist upon a certain description
of light, while the Trinity House had concurred with
the Scotch Board in objecting to that light which the
Board of Trade determined should be exhibited ? — I
believe that there may in some cases have been an
irregularity in the mode of conducting the corre-
spondence between the Boards, but I believe it
will be found that in the end the Board of Trade have
never insisted upon any opinion on a nautical ques-
tion as against the Scotch or Irish Boards, unless with
the concurrence of the Elder Brethren. I .should
add that the letter of the Act doe-s I believe, in
some cases enable them to overrule both the Trinity
House and the Scotch or Irish Boards.
333. Practically, do jou make any distinction in
the controlling power of the Board of Trade over the
Trinity House as against the Scotch and Irish
Boards ? — We consider that in the case of the Trinity
House the question for the Board of Trade is simply
a financial question. In the case of the two other
Boards the Board of Trade may have, and often has,
a nautical control as well as a liuaucial control.
334. {Chairman.) Then why do you consider it
necessary that a more specific control should be ex-
ercised over the Scotch and Irish Board.*, and a con-
trol other than that of financial ? — In the first place,
BO it is in the Act of Parliament. The reason
for putting it .«o in the Act probably was that in the
Scotch Board they have no nautical knowledge or
experience ; a:id in the Irish Board the nautical
knowledge and experience is very inferior nautical
knowledge and experience to that of the Elder Bre-
thren of the Trinity House,
INQUIRK IXTO THE CONDITION AND HUNAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
Ill
335. (Captain Ri/der.) Must not the financial con-
trol of which you speak, as the only control over the
Trinity House, often become a nautical control ?—
Mv. Milner Gihson li.is stated that it is very difficult
to know wliero the power of tlic purse ends. The
line can only be drawn satisfactorily, by a cei'-
tain amount of discretion, good sense, and forbear-
ance on tlie part of those who are intrusted with
this power.
336. (Mr. Graves.) Financially speaking, is the
controlling power over tlie three Boards exercised
precisel}' in (lie same manner with regard to the ap-
proval of expenditure? — In precisely the same*
manner.
337. (Chairman.) Does it extend to all particulars,
the sm.allest as well as the greatest ? — The smallest
as well as the greatest.
338. (Mr. Graves.) What is the course adopted for
the purpose of olitaining the sanction of the Board of
Trade to any expenditure ? — There is au annual esti-
mate, which contains all the items of current expen-
diture, and when tliis estimate is approved there is
no occasion to come to the Board of Trade again for
approval of the separate items, except in the case of
new works or very extensive repairs, in which case
the Board of Trade requires special plans and esti-
mates before the work is undertaken. In addition
the tenders are also submitted to the Board of Trade.
339. What is the course adopted with items of
expenditure which must constantly occur, but which
are not included in the estimate ? — The case is, I
think, not so common as one would imagine. Small
items can almost always be included in the annual
estimates, and if there is a large unforeseen expense
required, such, for instance, as the immediate repair
of a lighthouse, or a lightship bi'oken adrift, the
Lighthouse Boards would at once take any steps
which might be immediately necessary, and would,
at the same time, apply to the Board of Trade, being
perfectly confident of the approval of that Board, In
fact they have the power of doing this by the terms
of the Act.
340. In order to elucidate the question still further,
I will suppose such a case as the steam tender of the
Dublin Board losing the screw of her engine; would
the Board lie enabled to replace that without coming
to the Board of Trade to sanction the expenditure ?^
I am not quite sure what the letter of the law might
be in such a case ; practically, they would, if the
case was urgent, do what was needed, and would come
to the Board of Trade for the approval of that ex-
penditure, which would be given as a matter of course.
341. (Mr. Gladstone). How are men selected for
appointment as lighthouse keepers in the colonial
lighthouses under the Board of Trade ? — It is always
left, as fiir as possible, to the colonial government.
We look to the Governor as responsible for the ma-
nagement of the lighthouse ; the only way is to get
as much local responsibility as possible.
342. Have you any means of ascertaining whether
their qualifications are properly tested ? — The cir-
cumstances are so few and so diflerent that it would
be impossible to apply any general rule. Where we
have several lighthouses, as in the Bahamas, which
is the only case, we make the Governor responsible,
and appoint under him an efficient inspector, and we
rely upon those two persons for the practical control
of the establishment.
343. The Governor and the inspector ? — Yes
344. Did you ever send out any educated light-
keepers ? — The Admir.alty, before the Board of Trade
had anything to do with colonial lights, sent out one
to the Falkland Islands. The Board of Trade have
sent out to Vancouver's Island two qualified light-
keepers. They have also in one, if not in more ca ses,
where there was no school for instructing lightkeepers
in the place, sent out efficient workmen to put up
the lighting apparatus, who were bound to remain
a certain time after it was completed, in order that
they might give persons there instructions in the
management of the light.
345. (Chairman.) Have you anything further to
to add on the subject of the functions exercised by
s
the Board of Trade ? — I .should scarcely be dealing
fairly with the Commissioners if I did not say that
whilst I am quite alive to the historical and other
reasons for the present system, it involves a good deal
of circumlocution and consequent delay. Differences
of opinion are not always e.asy to settle where there
is but one department to .act, and where there are
three or four to be consulted before a conclusion can
be come to, the difficulties are, of course, much in-
creased. Further, I ought to say, that the Board of
Tr.ade have in some cases found considerable difficulty
in exercising their i)eculiar functions, viz. : — the con-
trolling expense. Many lighthouses have been built
in Scotland out of the Consolidated Light Dues, and
•■:: niany, if not in most, of these cases, the Board of
Trade liavo been of opinion that the plans were too
ex])ensive. Whether they have been right or wrong
in their opinions, they have found themselves unable
to enforce them to any material extent, except by
withholding altogether their consent to the uuder-
takins, which is, of course, a very serious matter.
346. (Chairman.) Have you any particular in-
stance you would wish to specify ? — I should be
nuwilling to trouble the Commissioners with the nu-
merous long correspondences we have had with the
Northern Lights Commissioners on this subject.
There is, however, one case, viz., that of the Pabba
Beacon, which so well illustrates this difficulty, that
I will put in the correspondence ( The icitness here
put in the papers marked E). The undertaking is not
a large one, but the correspondence illustrates the
difficulties of the subject. And I am the more anxious
to put it in because the Board of Trade made a slip
in the first instance, by omitting specially to call for
full particnl.nrs ; .ind because that omission led to
great subsequent difficulties. The case therefore not
only illustrates the difficulty of controlling expendi-
ture, but shows how important it is for the Board of
Trade, to require before a work is undertaken, the
very fullest particulars of what is intended, and of
the manner in which the work is to be executed. I
should add with reference to Messrs, Stevenson's
Letter of the 22d September, 1858, that the Board
of Trade have ue\er considered that their plans were
in general carelessly made, or that they under esti-
mated the expense. On the coutrary, in their works,
the actual outlay has generally been very near the
estimates.
Adjourned,
A,
Paper referred to in reply to Question 312.
Copt of Mr. Gordon's Fikst Repokt with Designs
and Estimates for a Lighthouse on the Great
Basses oft' the South-east Coast of Ceylon.
22, Fludyer Street, Whitehall,
Sin, I5th September, 1855.
I HAVE now the honor to comply with the
desire of the Lords of the Committee of Privy
Council for Trade, conveyed to me in your letter of
date 16th of July last, that I should prepare and
submit plans and estimates for the lighthouse which
it is proposed to erect on the Great Basses upon the
south-east coast of Ceylon, and that I should consider
the relative expense and advantages of stone andiroa
as the materials for constructing the same.
The position of the reef of rocks called the Great
Basses is stated now to be 81° 31' 26" east longitude,
and* and 6^ 11' 48" north latitude. They are about
eight miles off the south-east coast of Ceylon, and
consist of smooth red granite.
Mr. Arrowsmith having kindly furnished me with
an outline of this part of the coast of Ceylon, and
position of the Great Basses, 1 have copied the same
on drawing A.
It was reported by the liydrographer f " that com-
" pared with its present dangerous state, that im-
" portant turning point of Indian navigation, will be
* Admiral Sir Fleetwood Pellew's report, 9th May 1853, and
Capt. W. K. Hall, of H.M.S. " Styx."
f Admiral Sir Francis Beaufort, 13th July, 1853,
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
It-:
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
r. H. Famr, '• placed in relnthe security by the display of one
Esq. a light on the Great Bass. The main object being
' , J '• the land fall of vessels from the southward, those
^'^' ■• " coming from the westward will see the Great
" Basses, and carry with them its bearing quite far
" enough to avoid the Little Basses. Vessels from
" the northward, at least dui-iug the continuance of
" the western monsoon, will have made the coast of
'■ Ceylon to the northwards ; and during the eastern
'• monsoon, they, as well as all vessels from the
" Strait and from the eastward, -.vill run down their
" latitude."
Tlie Great Basses, where it is proposed now to
erect u lighthouse, are stated by the late Admiral
Sir Gordon Bremer, and the late Captain D.awson of
the Royal Engineers, to " consist of two small iiclds
" of red granite, each of about 60 to TO feet in
" breadth, and 120 or 130 feet long, the utmost rise
" of which above the level of the sea is 9 to 10 feet.
" There is a considerable under water communication
" between the two, and breakers extending to tho
" north-eastward and south-westward, in all about
' eight hundred yards of broken water."*
• "The sea, particularly from the south-westward, is
" broken at 50 yards distance by sunken rocks, and
" appears in moderate weather only to shut over the
" visible rocks after being thus deprived of its
" impetus. On the outermost or easternmost of
" these rocks we landed and remained nearly five
" hours, taking bearings and angles, and II. M.S.
" 'Tamar'also passed completely round them in a
" strong gale."
On 13th May, 18.33, Commander W. K. Hall, in
H.IM. steamer " Styx" anchored in five fathoms, about
a quarter of a mile from its north-east end under its
lee, (a strong double-reefed topsail breeze blowing
with a proportionate sea,) and found landing wast
impossible. He pulled within 50 feet of its N.W.
side, which, he says, was as close as he could " safely
" approach in the cutter, and on this side any heavy
" stores for the erection of a lighthouse could be
" landed with groat ease. Tho monsoon blows nearly
" along the line of the Basses, and a ship could lie in
" five or six i'athoms, 100 yards off, and in calm
" weather warp close in, and with her own derrick,
" land them on the rock, for within 50 feet there are
" four fathoms of water, sand, and coral bottom."
On drawing A. is also copied Capt. ^^'. K. Hall's
sketches of the Great Basses. That oificer informed
the commander-in-rchief that the strong weather he
experienced in May (during the S.W. monsoon)
clearly showed how well protected a lighthouse would
be on the easternmost rock. The same ofiicer states
that in September, October, and November there is
fine and smooth weather, and '• in September and
" October little or no wind."
Captain Biden, Master Attendant at Sladras, has
reported that " except in bad weather and a high
" sea, a considerable ])ortion of the rock is ahvays
" visible, and the rise and fall of sea does not exceed
" three feet."
The operations for the construction of the lighthouso
might in his opinion safely be commenced early in
October, and continued with little intermission till tho
cud of April ; and he says, " when once the outworks to
" ])rotocl the artificers in the construction of the basc-
" ment are sufficiently raised to resist the surge of tho
" sea'duriug the south-west monsoon, I am of opinion
." that (with the aid of a suitable boat moored under
" the lee of the rock) the work may be successfully
" carried on throughout tlie year."
There is some disjiarity in the accounts of tho
number of rocks forming the Great Basses. The late
Sir J. Gordon Bremer and the late Capt. Dawson,
U.K., mentioned two rocks ; Ca])t. Biden, from the
deck of I'eninsular and Oriental Steam Company's
ship "Bentinck," when about one and a half miles
from the rocks, sketched three rocks stretching inline
from S.W. to N.E.
Capt. \V. K. Hall, it will be seen, has sketched
some more, and es]ii'('i:illy a low rock to the south-
* gee report ot these officiTs,daltd 11 tU November, 1826.
ward of the largest one of the reef, which forms a
good breakwater ; such disparity may be accounted
for by the difterent times and different conditions of
the sea. The accompauying colored sketch B. will
give a pretty correct view from the seaward showing
the lighthouse of the form described, and recom
mended hereafter, and of the desert coast, olf v.hich it
will be. Over a great part of that desert district of
Ceylon the late Capt. Dawson, U.K., had travelled.
The nearest station to the Basses is Ilambautottc,
and that small place is about 24 miles to the west by
south. To the eastward of that station, except at the
Kirinde salt store, the sea coast, and for miles inland,
is uninhabited.*
Mr. Arrowsmith informs me that the Kirdinde or
Mahagam River is said to have water at all times.
Its source is in the high lands, and from this river,
the mouth of which is about 15 miles from the Great
Basses, the principal supply of fresh water will most
probably have to be obtained.
Communication must be arranged by means of
several small vessels, or one or two larger vessels,
between the coast and the Great Basses, for provision.s,
water, and stores, when the lighthouse shall have been
completed ; and during the time of the construction a
vessel of about 150 or 200 tons ought always to be
stationed at the anchorage indicated by Capt. W. K.
Hall {see drau-ing A.)
Point de Galle may afford every facilitj' for hiring
good and safe boats for the service ; but the vessel to
be anchored inside the reef during the construction of
the lighthouse may be lent b}' the Admiralty, or it
maybe purchased in London for about 1,600/.. and sold
afterwards at a fair price in India.
The reef can be reached from Point de Galle in
24 hours under easy steam,f but it is quite unnecessary
to have a steamer in attendance on the lighthouse
work. Vessels under canvas will be more in accord-
ance with the nature of the work and its economy
than steam can be in that part of the world, and
sailing vessels will be able to make their passages
between the Reef and Galle during the monsoon.
The lighthouse must be of great strength at its base
to resist heavy blows of the sea. It is well to suppose
the waves may equal in height the large waves of the
Atlantic, which, from crest to bottom of hollow,
measure perpendicularly 32 to 36 feet. It has been
found at the Bishojj's Rock, westward of Scilly, by
Mr. Nicholas Douglas, the superintending engineer
of the Bishop's Rock Lighthouse, now in construc-
tion by the Trinity House, that waves of —
S feet number 35 in one mile and 8 per minute.
l.T ., „ 5 and 6 „ 5 ,,
20 „ „ 3 „ 4 „
In looking about for a type of such a structure to
resist the power of the sea, the lighthouses which
appear best to answer the requirements of the Great
Basses are the tower of Cordouan, which has stood for
two centuries and a half. The tower of the Eddvstouc,
by Smeaton, and its enlarged copies at tlie Bidl Rock
by Mr. Robert Stevenson, and at Skerryvore by Mr.
Alan Stevenson, and the tower on Plymouth Break-
water by j\Ir. James Walker. These may be said to
offer only two types ; a third type, however,- is seen
in Martello Towers. IMy earliest design for lighting
the Great Basses and Little Basses consisted of two
towers like Martello Towers, though somewhat higher
in pro]iortion.
]Jut now that only one light is required, and that
is ordered to be 120 feet above the sea on the Great
Basses, which otl'er a site about 8 teet above water, I
propose a ^lartello Tower as my model for stability ;
and remembering that the lighthouse of La Mer
Sauvage at Bell Isle is a lofty cylindrical shaft, rising
out of a sliort cylinder of large dimensions, I have
designed what is shown on drawings C. andD.
There is no pretension to architectural elegance in
my design ; it will sutRce if we succeed in not offend-
ing the eye in that particular department. The
• See Master Attendant
lit Deeeniber ISSa.
t Capt. W. K. Ilall, R.N.
Steward's letter from Colombc
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
.1^3
eiifiinccr looks first for stability. The ai'cliitectural
difference of existing lighthouse towers for somewhat
similar situations is great between the noble and
highly adorned architecture of Cordouan Tower, at the
mouth of the Garonne, and the unadorned, unpreten-
ding square turret of Hango-ude at the south cape of
Finland, yet the shape and scYere simplicity of the
Finnish work is equally well suited for its purpose as
the enriched architecture of Cordouan.
On drawing E. will be found the sea level shown
as a datum line, and in reference to it the towers of
Cordouan, Eddystone, Bell Rock, Skcrryvore, Heaux
de Brehat, and the lighthouse which I now design for
the Great Basses.
I propose to adopt, as shown on drawing C, a
cylindrical basement of masonry, surrounded by an
outer case or circumvallation of cast iron two inches
thick, all the flanges joining the plates being inside.
This basement will be 30 feet high above the rock.
The masonry inside of this cast iron shell is to be set
in bitumen, worked hot and bonded to the outer circum-
Tallatiou. This external cylinder and its core of
masonry will have to bear the shocks of the sea when
it rushes over the sui-face of the red granite rock on
which the tower is to rest. In order to prevent salt
water remaining in contact with this iron circumval-
lation or revetement, I propose to put a dwarf outwork
or riug, or plinth, of cast iron about two feet high
round the extreme base, leaving an annular space
about one foot all round the basement, and to pack
that space bet«'ccn the ring and the main revetement
by running in hot Trinidad pitch or bitumen mixed
with sand and small gravel.
In course of time (whether long or short) this cast
iron ring, if found then to be softened by the salt
water, or injured by boulders or wreck timber, can
be repaired easily, and packed again with bitumen.
From this Martello Tower is to spring the column
or shaft which has to carry the light at the requisite
elevation.
Drawing D. exhibits the casement as it would
appear if Ijuilt of pickdressed granite, all set in
bitumen.
Accommodation for light-keepers will be provided
in and upon the basement, which may be covered
with an awning. There is also space for fresh water
and for exercise at the basement. The column which
rises from it will afford sufficient space for all stores
and further accommodation. The diameter of the
lofty column will depend upon the nature of the light,
and the diameter of the lantern which contains it.
If a revolving light should be determined upon, it
can be had in a diameter of 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, or
12 feet. Upon these diameters of lanterns and tower
upon the number of faces of reflectors, and the num-
ber of lamps and reflectors in a face, tlie cost of con-
struction and annual maintenance will depend.
The illuminating apparatus should consist either of
four faces or of six faces. The latter number is pre-
ferable, and the following is a calculation of times of
the duration of light and darkness from four faces
and from six faces, as they will be observed by seamen
at the greatest distance, or in bad weather : —
With four faces. — If the full beam of light from
one face of reflectors passes over 90° in 30", of which
16" are light and 74° are dark, the seaman will have
merely o'3 to set the full beam of light at a distance,
and will be in comparative darkness 24 '7.
If the light passes over 90° in 60'' the seaman will
have 10 "6 time of the light, and 49" '4 of darkness.
iVith six faces. — If the light passes over ^th of a
circle, or 60° in 30", and 16° are light and 44° are
dark, the seaman will have 8" of light and 22" of
darkness.
If the light passes over 60° in 60" and 16^ arc light
and 44° are dark, the seaman will have 16" and 44" dark.
The above remarks have reference only to revolving
frames and reflectors, and their lamps, a system to be
preferred to the catadioptric system of Fresnel, which
is no doubt the most philosophical, and luminous
silver reflectors, each having its own lamp, are more
simple, liowever, and preferaide in many respects for
the remote position of the Great Basses, where the
s
solitary central mechanical lamp of Fresnel might bo
neglected, and the horizon consequently left in darkness.
The lamps for the reflectors should bo in all the
essential measurements tlie same as those which were
supplied, and have answered so well, in the light-
house which I engineered for Point de Galle. Tlie
glasses, cottons, oil, and treatment will be the same in
both lighthouses.
The " four faces " above mentioned may be made
■with only one lamp on each face, or with two lamps,
or with three lamps on each face.
The '■ six faces " above mentioned may also be made
■with one, two, or three reflectors on a face. Each
reflector requires one pint of cocoa nut oil per night,
so that with " six faces " of three reflectors each, the
consumption will be 18 pints of oil per night, the cost
of which will not exceed in all 3*. a night.
Drawing F gives an enlarged view of such a lantern
and light apparatus as I prefer for this lighthouse.
With these, the light, when made; out on the extreme
horizon, or in thick weather, will appear alternately
very bright and dark in the times stated above. In
very clear weather three naked flames, i.e., their mere
radiating light will l.io seen as a constant light at a
distance of six or seven miles, varied in the times
stated above on page 11 by the very bright beams of
reflected light.
I am desired to take into consideration the relative
expense and advantages of stone and iron as materials
for the construction of this lighthouse tower.
The general comparative values of different mate-
rials for the construction of liglilhouses in the colonies
are particularly stated in the letter which I had the
honor to address to you, of date 26 July last, by order
of Lord Stanley of Alderley °to that letter I beg to refer.
For the proposed liglitliouse on the Great Basses
we shall now specially consider the relative advantages
and expense of iron and masonry, including in the
latter both stone and brickwork, as they can be con-
structed on that rock.
If wo refer to the Madras Lighthouse Tower con-
structed by Major J. T. Smith of the Madras
Engineers, we shall find that at similar prices, and
with similar abilities of the masons, we could not
construct a suitable lighthouse tower even under the
most favourable circumstances at tlie Basses in less
than five or six years of time, and at a cost of about
19,000Z.
The construction of the Madras Lighthouse occu-
pied five years and five months, and Major vSmith
informs us that " the use of stone greatly added to
" the difficulties and delay of the work, owing to
" the limited number of stone cutters procurable for
" employment at the building, and the constant dis-
" appointments in the supply of the materials owing
" to the quarries being at a distance." In another
place he speaks of the great delay in procuring,
finishing, and fitting the granite stones facing the
pedestal. He adds also that " under the most favour-
able circumstances, only between three and four
" courses of stone were completed in a single month,
" and in spite of all the pains whicii could be taken
" the natives inserted and fixed (certain iron clamps)
" so inefficiently, that they could in fact be of but
" little real benefit."
Such being the difficulty and delay of constructing
a well-dressed granite building, witli all the immediate
convenience of Madras itself, the probabilities of
constructing of granite a lighthouse on the Great
Basses, where it ■will be subject to heavy blows from
the sea, not experienced by the Madras one, would
be vastly greater. The Great Basses are 16 miles
from any fresh ■water, they are upwards of 50 miles
from Matura, whence lime would have to be brought;
they are 26 miles from Hambantotte, the nearest
settlement on the coast from which any assistance
could be got. A granite quarry would have to be
sought out and opened, and the dressed stones trans-
ported a great distance, and if the S. W. monsoon
set in whilst the work on the rock was green great
loss would ensue.
The liest granite would have to be carried by sea
from Dondra Head, which is upwiirds of 50 miles
4
7'. H. Far
E.sn.
U4.
MINUTES OF EVIDEN'CE TAKEN BEFORE THE COilMISSIONERS APPOIXTED TO
T. H. Farrer,
18 Deo. 1S60.
distant. All the adjoining coast of Ceylon from
Dondra Head to the" eastward is an unhealthj and
almost uninhaljited country.
To build a sutlicicnt base on the rock with bricks
and mortar alone, or even with cement would be
highly injudicious.
I, therefore, prefer the tower and basementexhibitcd
on drawing C. A granite stone basement would
appear, if adopted, as shown on drawing D.
1 propose to cut two concentric rings as seats for
the lighthouse in the granite rock, ami insert in them
the two concentric cast iron towers .shown on draw-
ing C. The outer tower which will have to resist
heavy blows from the sea, will be made of cast iron
plates two inches thick, all flanged and bolted togither
in the inside, and this will be carried up 30 feet high.
As each course of plates of this tower is laid and
bolted together, the interior will be- filled up to the
same level by the best large Ceylon bricks (12x6x4);
no mortar or cement will be used, but bitumen from
the island of Trinidad, mixed with an equal quantity
of sharp sand, will be applied hot instead of water
or other cement. The inside and outside of the iron
work will be well paid over with the same, and the
spaces between the iron and the brickwork will bo
carefully run in at every course of bricks with the
game hot bituminous mixture.
The extensive use of this bitumen from the pitch
lake of Trinidad in the Westminster New Bridge
and various other engineering works, is now well
known to engineers and its properties can be entirely
relied upon.
I propose to have all the iron work of the base-
ment well coated with a preparation of Trinidad pitch.
The outside of it to be sanded and coloured up a
very light brown or dirty white.
The lofty shaft which carries the lantern will bo
made in plates of cast iron one inch thick, and lined
with thin wrought-iron resting against the flanges of the
tower by non-conductors of heat. There will be a film of
air, or rather a hollow cylinder of air, of about 3i
inches thick acting as a non-conductor, and which
may by the altitude of the tower be changed with
great nijiidity. From former experience of iron
towers in hot climates, I am warranted in s.aying
that the rooms in the shaft itself would form excellent
apartments for sleeping or otherwise.
The hollow central column which will be ob.'^erved
in drawing C, is for the transport of oil and other
lightroom stores by day, and for the descent of the
moving weight of the revolving machinery by night.
There will al.so be in this central column a leaden
pipe for the conveyance of dirty water from a sink
in the highest room down to the sea.
The top of the dwelling rooms in the basement
will be decked over by 3-iuch deck planking, ren-
dered safe from fire by Mr. Maugham's process. This
deck will form a good space for exercise. It is to be
covered in almost all weathers by an awning stretched
from the shaft to stanchions all round the Martello
Tower.
Ventilation will be secured to these basement
rooms by the ]iorts shown on drawing C, and the
ventilation will be arranged as suggested by Admiral
Beechey, in such manner that one or more of these
rooms may be used as a sick bay in case of cholera
or fever.
On the deck part of the basement at the south-ea.st
side of the building will be placed a deck water-closet
■with cistern and other arrangements for cleanliness
and comfort, and the rock at the ba.se will be chan-
nelled to suit the same.
The space for accommodation in this lighthouse,
drawing C, will be as great as that of Skerryvore or
of Brehat for keepers' water,* provisions, and stores.
* I propose to have a small still, by means of which to obtain
freshwater for washing, and even for drinking, in cases of
extremity. From each 10 lbs. of fuel carried to the lighthouse
■we may be assured of 100 lbs. or 10 gallons of fresh water. I
have lately been making some experiments, which induce me to
believe that by coucentratiug the suu's rays, the fuel for such
distillation of water may be saved.
Over and iibove which we have got the decked space
covered by the awning.
If my design, as shown on drawings C. and F., be
adopted, tlie whole of the work above referred to
ehonld be made, erected, and tried in London under
my immediate direction ; then dismounted, shipped at
the proper season, and landed part at the site, part at
Point de Galle.
Whilst the work is in progress in this country the
rock at the site can bo prepared by tlie resident
engineer, who will have charge of the whole work, as
I have arranged in so many previous lighthouses.
My resident engineer should be sent out to Point de
Galle by the Cape of Good Hope, taking with him a
trammel, models and drawings for all excavation
necessary on the rock, and some eye bolts, and a few
ring bolts ; stone cutters' tools, forge, tents, and fresh
water tanks, jumping irons. The wrought iron crow's
nest framing, stay chains, and refuge to be fixed on
the middle of the site.
ILaving effected a landing on the north-east rock
from a good and safe Point de Galle boat, in the fine
and smooth water, the resident engineer and his party
must mark out with white paint upon the rock the
site, and cause eye-bolts to be sunk twelve inches into
the granite, to which life lines, water tanks, &c., &c.,
may be made fast.
The landing place on the north-west side of the rock
must have his early and special attention, and also a
rude jetty formed for boats to land and embark work-
men.
The same officer should take out a strong crane and
erect it close to the jetty. When the lighthouse is to
be shipped from this country it will be well to send
part of it by the ship, of .about 200 tons, above
referred to at page 6, having a crew of 12 persons,
including captain and mate. When she shall have
arrived out the six seamen might bo dismissed. If they
do work at the rock for certain extra pay Cingalese
or Lascars might be employed in their stead. The
captain, first and second mate, carpenter, steward, and
cook should remain with the vessel.
This crew and the working party on the rock, which
may consist of 15 or 20 people more, should not be
left without a surgeon. A young man who had seen
some medical practice in the mercantile service should
be engaged for the term necessary, which I estimate
to be 12 or 14 months at most.
It may be well to venture here the suggestion that
the resident engineer should bo considered the super-
cargo, and have charge of everything but the working
and discipline of the ship. These latter duties will,
in my opinion, be best carried on by a captain who
has traded in the east and has had command of a
black crew.
Estimating for the proposed work is attended with
some difficulty, particularly before my Lords have
decided upon what amount of light is to be exhibited
on this tower, and before they h.ave decided what the
basement of the tower itself is to be.
My estimates of cost are at follows :—
No. 1. — The design shown on the ac- £
companying drawings B., C, and F.,
can be carried out, having a lantern
12 feet in diameter, and the liglit
permanently exhibited, for the sum of 13,6.J0 0
Add 7i per cent, for contingencies 1,023 15
^£14,673 los.
No. 2. — If the light exhibited shall con-
sist of only one light on e.ach of four
faces, as explained in page 11, tho
work can be executed, having a
lantern 8 feet in diameter, and the
light permiinently shown, including
contingencies for ... 8,503 0
No. 3.— If the light exhibited shall
consist of two reflectors on each of
four faces, having a lantern nine feet
in diameter, the work can be ex-
ecuted, and the light i)enuanently
shown, including contingencies, for - 9,600 0
INQtriEE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
145
No. 4 — If the light exhibited shall con-
sist of three reflectors on each of four
faces, having a lantern 11 feet in
diameter, the work can be executed,
and the light permanently shown,
including contingencies for -
No. 5. — If the light exhibited shall be
the same as stated above, No. 1, and
with a stone tower, as shown in
drawing D., tlie basement of tlie
tower to be constructed of pick-
dressed granite instead of that re-
ferred to above at No. 1, the cost
will be . - - -
Add 10 per cent for contingencies
ROCKABILL.
16,990
1,699
.€18,689 0
It will be seen that estimates No. 1 and No. 5 will
give the best light to the seaman. It also appears that
estimate No. 1 may be executed and permanently
lighted in about 18 months time, and that there is
little prospect of No. 5 being executed within six
years, while the latter will cost 4,000/. more than the
former.
I venture to recommend strongly to my Lords the
tower and lighting apparatus shown in drawings B., C,
and F.
The detailed specification for these lighthouses are
all drawn up and ready for being fairly copied out so
soon as my Lords have determined which of the five
schemes estimated for is to be proceeded with.
I have, &c.
(Signed) Alexander Gokdon.
B.
Paper referred to in replij to Question 324.
Tenders for Dioptric Lighting Apparatus and
Lanterns.
The names are omitted.
Lighting Apparatus.
Whitby,
North.
Whitby,
South.
Bishops.
Needles.
Messrs. A.-
Messrs. B.-
Messrs. C.-
£
907
1,00.3
995
£
77S
778
885
£ s.
1,313 10
1,225 0
1,394 0
£ s.
1,087 0
1,020 0
1,192 0
Messrs. D. -
£2,028
-
-
Needles.
Messrs. A.
Slessrs. B.
Messrs. C.
Messrs. D.
Jlessrs. E.
Messrs. F.
Messrs. A.
Messrs. B.
Messrs. C.
Messrs. D.
NoRTU Foreland.
Arran Islands.
2,320
0 0
1,852
5 0
1,658
15 0
1,415
0 0
1,392
0 0
1,382
19 3
Lighting
Apparatus.
£
s. d.
1,018
10 0
1,055
0 0
1,165
0 0
1,192
0 0
Fixed Light.
Revolving Light.
Lan-
Appara-
Lan-
Appa-
tern.
tus.
tern.
ratus.
Messrs. A. - -
850
1,150 0
850
1,550
Additional if witli
holophotal annular
prisms
—
—
—
125
Messrs. B.
816
1,252 13
81G
1,609
Additional if irith
holophotal annular
prisms
—
■
152
£10,500 0
Messrs. A.
Messrs. B.
Messrs. C.
Messrs. D.
Messrs. A.
Messrs. B.
Messrs. C.
Messrs. D.
Messrs. A.
Messrs. B.
Messrs. A.
Messrs. B.
Messrs. C.
Lighting
Apparatus.
£ s.
1,997 0
2,460 0
2,190 0
1,909 0
Lantern.
1,157 13
1,095 0
1,160 0
1,225 0
Tory Island.
Lighting
Apparatus.
1,568 0 0
1,629 0 0
1,790 0 0
1,890 0 0
MacAbthur's Head.
Lighting
Apparatus.
469 0 0
502 15 0
Cay Lobos.
Lantern.
Apparatus.
Messrs. A. - .
Messrs. B. - - .
Messrs. C. - -
Messrs. D. - .
Messrs. E. - - .
Messrs. F. -
£ s. (I.
1,3.39 0 0
1,210 0 0
1,720 0 0
1,163 10 6
1,384 0 0
1,397 0 0
£ s. a.
1,584 0 0
1,963 5 6
1,746 0 0
DuNGENESS.'
Lantern.
£ s. d.
1,199 14 10
1,511 0 0
1,670 0 0
*In this case the old lantern was to become
the property of the contractor.
Paper referred to in rep I// to Question 327.
Lobos Ciy Lighthouse, Bahamas.
Specification of Lighting Apparatus and Lamps
required for the Lobos Cay Lighthouse being
for a fixed catadioptric light of the size and
power generally known as the first order of
Fresnel's system.
Catadioptric Apparatus.
The lighting apparatus is to be for a fixed light to
illuminate 360 degrees, and is to be composed of
eight cylindrical lenticular panels of glass refractors,
forming a circular figure, in the centre of which the
concentric wicked lamp is to be placed. Eight cata-
dioptric panels, in the shape of a cupola, placed above
the said cylindrical lenticular panels, and eight cata-
dioptric panels placed below the same lentioulated
cylinder, forming a cylindrical figure with necessary
opening portion for the attendant.
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
18 Dec. 1860.
T
146
MINUTES OF E^aDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
T. H. Farrer,
Esq.
IS Dec. 18G0.
The whole apparatus is to be moiiiitotl in a brass or
gun-metal frame and supported by a cast-iron column
with a table or pillar placed in centre of both the
lenticulated system and the lantern.
Lamps with Concentric JVicks.
There are to be provided ten four-wick lamps all
exactly alike in shape and in every particular of tho
most improved construction, so that in the event of
one jretting out of order at any time, there may be
but little delay in replacing it by another.
Service Gallery.
There is to be provided a cast-iron service gallery
or cast-iron stage or platform fitted inside just below
the level of the glass of the lantern round the cata-
dioptric apparatus for the purpose of ailbrding easy
access to the outside of the lenticulated apparatus.
Fittings and Stores.
The contractor is also to provide the following
stores, &c.: —
150 chimney glasses for the four-wick lamp.
120 feet of wicks of each of the four numbers.
„ ,„ ,, ., r Each can to be fitted with
6 oQ-gallon oil cans . » i i -^i,
" "~ "^ I a strong gun-metal cock with
^ " .,',' <J a strong screwed bush, which
„ , " I bush is to be firmly soldered
2 1-q"^« " Ltothecan.
2 drainers for oil cans.
1 6-gallon filtering tub.
1 4-gallon oil jack.
2 lighting bu:-ners.
2 pair of chimney tongs.
6 pints spirits of wine.
1 set Fresnel's measures.
2 trimming trays.
2 trimming cans.
2 japanned store boxes.
12 lbs. of polishing powder in tin boxes.
72 lens cloths.
72 plate glass cloths.
72 fine chamois leathers.
6 pairs of trimming scissors.
2 sets mandrils.
1^ cwt. of finest cotton waste.
2 large sponges.
Packing.
All the parts of this lighting .apparatus to be packed
in good stout deal cases, and those containing the
lenses to be properly lined with tin, and when packed
pi-operly soldered, so as to be air and water tight. jS'o
hay or substance that absorbs or retains moisture to
be used, but all articles or stores likely to be damaged
by shaking to be packed in pine shavings or pine
saw dust.
Approval.
The whole of the apparatus is to be made perfect
in all its materials and details of workmanship, and to
be finished in the very best and most approved
manner, erected and tried on the premises of tho
contractor to the satisfaction of ]\fr. .Alexander Gor-
don, the engineer of the lighthouse, or such person
as may be appointed to superintend the same.
Delivery.
The contractor to provide all packing cases and
packing, and to deliver alongside in the port of
London.
Pavment.
One half of the price to be paid to the contractor
when the engineer of the lighthouse shall report that
more than half the woik is completed, the other moiety
to be i)aid when the engineer sliall report that the
whole contract has been completed and delivered to
his satisfaction.
The time allowed for the completion and delivery
is to be months from the date at which the
order is given to the contractor, under a penalty of
twenty pounds for each and every week that the work
shall be delayed by the contractor beyond the said
allowed time of months.
(Signed) ALEXA>fDER Gokdox.
14 July 1857.
Red Sea LiGninousES.
Specification for Lighting Apparatus.
The apparatus for the first light will be formed
to illuminate 225 degrees of the circle, and be com-
posed of five segments. Each, segment will be com-
posed of a central refractor panel, one catadioptric
panel above and one below the same.
Tho central refractor panel will be a compound
cylindrical refractor made of a central annular lens
with 16 rings, eight above and eight below, the lens
accurately and securely fitted in brass frames, the
five ])anels forming a segment of a circular figure
6 feet 0-jij- in. in internal diameter.
Each catadioptric panel of the upper part will be
composed of 13 segments of zones, each catadioptric
panel of the lower part of six segments of zones;
each panel being fitted correctly in brass fi'araes;
when fitted together the height from the bottom of
the lower zones to the top of the upper zones to be
9 feet Qi in.
The apparatus will stand upon a cast-iron column
1 1 inches diameter and f inch thick. The top will
be turned and prepared to fit the lens table, the foot
prepared as may be directed to be secured to tho
floor.
The table will be cast in four pieces, bolted together
by the flanges with a sufficient number of wrought-
iroD bolts. A proper opening will be made iu the
table to allow of access to the interior of the appa-
ratus, and a wrought-iron step ladder formed between
it and the floor of the lightroom.
Eight wrought-iron standards, with ;|-inch screws
at the bottom end, will be fitted upon the rim of the
table, and secured below with ornamental gun-metal
nuts. They will be connected at the top by a
wrought-iron ring lg"xf". secured to the heads of the
standards by f" screws upon which the upper panels
will rest. The centre and lower panels -vn\\ rest on
curved wrought-iron stays, with the ends bent to fit
between the standards, to which they will be secured
by i-inch bolts and nuts. The tops of the upper
panels will be secured by a gun-metal ring 2 ft. 3 in.
diameter and | in. thick, prepared for the ventilating
tubes to pass through, to which the tops of the brass
frames will be bolted.
Tliree iron stays to connect the lens table with tho
brackets which support the trimming stage will be
provided and fitted to the table at one end, and the
other end jirepared t-o be fitted to the brackets.
Three lamps of the first order, each having four
concentric wicks, as supplied to the Trinity House,
will be furni.shed complete.
Three additional burners, each of which will fit to
any of the lamps, will be furnished.
Coi)per ventilating tubes, on Professor Faraday's
principle, will be fitted to the appar.atus, to be formed
of sheet copper, of 2-^ lbs. to the superficial foot.
The holophotal revolving light appnr.itus will con-
sist of eight segments. Each segment will be
composed of a central annular refractor one holo-
photal panel above and one below the same. Each
holophotal panel of the upper portion to be composed
of 18 zones, and of the lower portion of 8 zones, all of
3 ft. .3J- in. focal distance.
The .apparatus will be supported on a strong
improved revolving machine of the best construction
with guide roller pulleys, gut Hues, and weight
complete.
The lens table to be cast in four pieces as in the
case of the lixed light, the framing to be similar so
far as sr.itabk-, the top to bo furnished with rollers
and collar in the usual manner working in a gun
metal ring firmlj' secured to the rafters of the lantern
as may be directed.
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
ur
Three lamps and burners and ventilating tubes
similar to tliosc described for the first apparatus will
bo furnished complete.
The second order fixed light will be formed to
illuminate 360 degrees, and will consist of six seg-
ments, each segment being composed of a central
refractor panel, one catadioptric panel above and one
below the same.
The central refractor to consist of a, central lens
with 12 rings, six above and six below. The upper
catadioptric portion of 12 zones, and the lower por-
tion of five zones. The whole will be correctly fitted
in brass frames, and will form when put together a
circular figure 4 feet 7^ inches internal diameter, and
7 feet high.
The apparatus will be supported upon a cast-iron
column and table, and wrought-iron frame similar
to that described for the first order apparatus, but
of reduced dimensions proportioned to the size.
Three lamps of the second order with three burners
as supplied to the Trinity House, and ventilating
tubes complete will be furnished.
After the whole shall have been erected and approved,
the several parts will be marked, taken down, and
packed in suitable and approved cases in such manner
that no package shall exceed 4 cwt. in weight. The
contents and weight of each package will be furnished
to the engineer.
Payment to be made on certificate of delivery.
D.
Papers referred to in reply to Question 330.
Lighthouses Abroad.
Estimates of the Sums as voted in the Ye.ars 1856
to 1860, inclusive, to defray the Cost of Erecting
and Maintaining
abroad.
the under-mentioned Lighthouses
1856-
Twenty-nine thousand four hundred Pounds.
-
it ■
Services.
Yeor 185
ing31
1857.
Bahamas :
To defray the expense of maintaining the light-
houses at Abaeo, Gun Cay, and C.iy Sa
Bank :
Wages, three lighticeepers at 70/.
f
each - - - _ _
210
Wages, three assistant ditto at 36/.
each - - - -
108
Rations for keepers and assistants -
120
Oil and stores for lighting
1,100
Repairs, boat hire, and incidentals -
ess
Allowances for superintending and
inspecting the lighthouses, and
expenses connected therewith
224
'> 400
Falkland Islands :
For -wages, &c. of lightkeepers
200
For oil and stores for lighting
-100
GOO
Nova Scotia :
Contribution towards the expenses of t
le esta-
hlishment at Sable Island, for the
reliefof
persons shipwrecked
.
400
Newfoundland :
For the completion of the lighthouse
on Cape
Race - - - .
.
1,000
Ceylon :
To defray the expense of erecting a
£
lighthouse at the Great Basses Rocks,
on account of which a sum of 3,000/.
was voted last year (Explanatory
Paper A., page 30) - - .
17,000
For purchase of a steamer for the car-
riage of materials and stores for the
lighthouse ...
*G,000
23,000
Ionian Islands '
To defray the expense of erecting a lig
hthouse
on the northern point of the Island o
' Cerigo
(Explanatory Paper B., page 30)
£
2,000
29,400
1857-8.
Thirty-seven thousand and sixty Pounds.
T. H. Fairer,
Esq.
Service.
For Maintenance of Lighthouses already
erected, viz.: —
Bahamas (Ahaco, Gun Cay, and Cay
Sal Bank)
Falkland Islands - . .
Newfoundland (Cape Race)
For new works (lighthouses to be erected
and in course of erection):
Newfoundland (Cape Race)
Ceylon (Great ISasses Rocks) -
Ionian Islands (Cerigo)
Bahamas (Great Isaac)
„ (Cay Lobos)
Cape of Good Hope (South Point)
t) 1, (Roman Rocks) -
Western Australia (King George's
Sound) - . - . .
For contribution towards the expenses of
the establishment at Sable Island, Nova
Scotia, for the relief of persons ship-
wrecked • - - .
Estimate for the
Years
2,400
2,460
600
600
—
GOO
1,000
>3,000
8,000
2,000
4,000
—
7,500
—
5,000
—
3,500
—
1,500
3,500
Board of Trade, 1
April 1857. J
1858-9.
Twenty-seven thousand one hundred Pounds.
Years
Service.
1S57.
1858.
For Maintenance of Lighthouses already
erected, viz: — ■
Bahamas (Abaco, Gun Cay, and Cay
Sal Bank)
Purchase of schooner for the use
of the above Iighthouses,includ-
ing repairs, maintenance, &c. -
Falkland Islands (Capo Pembroke) -
Ionian Islands (Cerigo)
Newfoundland (Cape Race)
For New Works (Lighthouses to be
erected and in course of erection) :
Ceylon (Great Basses Rocks)
Ionian Islands (Cerigo)
Bahamas (Great Isaacs)
„ (Cay Lobos)
Cape of Good Hope (South Point) -
„ (Roman Rocks)
Western Australia (King George's
Sound) ....
Miscellaneous :
For contribution towards the expenses
of the establishment at Sable Island,
Nova Scotia, for the relief of persons
shipwrecked ...
Inspection of light apparatus
£
2,460
600
600
8,000
4,000
7,500
5,000
3,500
1,500
3,500
400
£
2,600
2,500
600
300
600
10,000
2,000
6,500
1,500
400
100
£37,060
27,100
Board of Trade, "1
SOth March, 1858. J
T 2
148
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMIHSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
H. Farrer,
Esq.
1859-60.
Thirty-six thousand seven hundred Pounds.
I
Years
Service.
ISGS. 18511.
For Mainifcance of Lighthouses already
erected, and of the New Lighthouses
expected to be lighted during the year,
viz.: —
Bahamas (Abaco, Gun Cay, Cay Sal
Bank, Great Isaacs, Lobos Cay, and
Lighthouse schooner)
Falkland Islands (Cape Pembroke) -
Ionian Islands (Cerigo)
Newfoundland (Cape Kace)
Western Australia (King George's
Sound) ' ' ' 'r
For New Works (Lighthouses in course of
erection) :
Ceylon (Great Basses Rocks)
Bahamas (Great Isaacs)
„ (Cay Lobos)
Cape of Good Uope (Roman Rocks)
British Columbia (for the erection of
lighthouses in Fucas Straits and
Esquimau Ilarbour, Vancouver's
Island) - - - •
Miscellaneous :
For contribution towards the expenses
of jthe establishment Sable Island,
Nova Scotia, for the relief of
persons shipwrecked
Inspection of lighting apparatus
.5.100
600
300
600
1,500
10,000
2,000
6,500
5,000
600
300
600
600
10,000
4,800
4,800
2,500
CoKRESPONDENCE respecting the Construction of
the Pabba Beacon, between the Board of
Trade and the Commissioners of Northern
LiGUTHOUSES, referred to in reply to Question
346.
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Sir, Edinburgh, 22d July 1858.
I XM directed by the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses to transmit herewith accounts
given in by Messrs. vStevenson, as per list annexed,
thirteen in number, and amounting to 920/. 14,<;. Ad.
These are submitted for the sanction of my Lords
previous to being paid.
X27,100
36,700
» Of this sum 3,500/. is to be repaid eventually from the
revenues of the colony, and the lighthouses will be maintained
entirely by the colony.
1860-61
Seventeen thousand Pounds.
Service.
Total Estimates for
the Years
For Maintenance of Lighthouses already
erected, and of the New Lighthouses
expected to be lighted during the year,
viz.: —
Bahamas (Abaco, Gun Cay, Cay Sal
Bank, Great Isaacs, Lobos Cay, and
Lighthouse schooner)
Falkland Islands (Cape Pembroke) -
Ionian Islands (Cerigo)
Newfoundland (Cape Race)
Western Australia (Iving George's
Sound) - - "
For New Works (lighthouses in course of
erection) :
Ceylon (Great Basses Rocks)
Bahamas (Great Isaacs)
„ (Cay Lobos)
Cape of Good Hope (Roman Rocks)
British Columbia (for the erectiou of
lighthouses in Fucas Straits and
Esquimalt Harbour, Vancouver's
Island) - - - -
Red Sea, three lanterns and apparatus
Miscellaneous :
For contributions towards the ex-
penses of the establishment at Sable
Island, Nova Scotia, for the relief
of persons shipwrecked
Inspecting of lighting apparatus
5,000
5,800
600
600
3O0
300
600
2U0
10,000
4.800
4,800
1,00(1
1,000
400
100
400
100
17,000
(Signed)
The Secretary
Marine Department,
Board of Trade.
I am, &c.
Alexr. Cunningham,
Secretary.
List of Accounts referred to.
1. Miscellaneotis.
Charged Abstract G., account for quarter to 31st
March 1859.
£ s. d.
Admiralty Light list - - 5 10 3
Indian Lighthouse - - - 1(> 4 9
Chart - - - - - 4 4 0
2. Extra Repair.
Ch.-irged Abstract A., Bell Rock, Vou-
cher 9, quarter to 31st March 1859.
BellEock - - - - 10 10 0
3. Percentage on TAghts furnished.
Charged Abstract L., in accounts for
the quarter to 31st March 1859.
Rona . . - .
Kyleakin ....
Oronsay ....
Sound of Mull - - - -
LTshenish ....
Pabba Beacon ...
4. Contemplated Lights.
Charged Abstract L., in .accounts for
the quarter ending 31st March 1859.
Ilolborn ....
Corran .....
St. Abbs ....
102
10
0
102
10
0
47
10
0
75
0
0
432
10
0
27
10
0
33
9
4
13
13
0
OO
13
0
^920
14
4
Sir.
In addition to the above a vote of 2,121/. 19.«. 10(/. was taken
for a lantern and dioptric apparatus presented by H.M. Govern-
ment to the Bey of Tunis for a lighthouse on the Cuui Rocks.
(See p. 9, of 202 of 1860, of Civil Contingencies.
Office of Committee of Privy Council
for Trade, Marine Department,
Whiteh.ill, 11th August 1858.
I am directed by the Lords Committee of
Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the 22d ultimo, transmitting for
their Lordships' sanction certain accounts of Messrs.
Stevenson, amounting to nine hundred and twenty
jiounds fourteen shillings and fourpence
(920/. 14«. 4rf.)
]My Lords direct me to observe with reference to
Messrs. Stevenson's professional charges on five
hundred pounds (500/.), the estimated cost of tho
I'abba Beacon works, amounting to twenty-seven
pounds ten shillings (27/. \0s.), that in the letter
from this dep.irtment of the 24th June 1857, their
Lordsldips approved of the erection of an iron bcncon
on the island of Pabba, similar in character to that
on the Callaeckstone, and as the cost of the works
according to the account which has been rendered,
is only one hundred and twcuty-ono pounds ten
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
149
Bhilliujis (121/. lO.s-.), my Lords will be glad to be
infoi'mid why tliu Uoinmissioners are charged ou the
estimate lor a plan not approved or carried into
ell'ect instead of au estimate for the substituted plan
for it.
I am, &c.
(Signed) T. II. Fauker.
The Secretary to the
Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses.
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Sm, Edinlnirgh, 17th August 1858.
I HATE to acknowledge the receipt of your
letter of the 11th current, with Rome observations
on the account of Messrs. Stevenson. These obser-
vations having, in the absence of the Secretary, been
communicated to Messrs. Stevenson, I am now
directed to forward a copy of their answers.
I am, &c.,
(Signed) Ales. Cunningham,
The Secretary Secretary.
Marine Department,
Board of Trade.
(Copy.)
Deae Sit7, Edinburgh, 16th August 1858.
We have received from you the letter of the
Board of Trade of 11th August, relative to our
accounts, and we now return it with the following
explanations.
The beacon at Pabba was originally proposed by
us to be made of stone, as there was abundance of
stone on the ground, and the estimated cost was 500/.
We were instructed, however, to prepare plans for
an iron beacon ou the same principle as that erected
at Kyleakin, and the beacon on that principle has
now been erected. It must be observed, however,
that the only resemblance between the beacons at
Kyleakin and Pabba is, their being both of malleable
iron rods arranged on the same principle of construc-
tion. Kyleakin is ou a rock which covers only
about 4 feet at high water, while Pabba is on a low
water rock, on which there is a rise of 15 feet, the
one beacon is 20 and the other 40 feet in height.
The sum of 121/. 10s. does not include the whole
expenditure on Pabba, which amounts to 502/. os. 2d.
Having made a preliminary sketch for a stone
beacon, and afterwards full drawings for an iron one,
we consiikr we are justified in making the charge
for conducting the works on an expenditure of 500/.,
the original estimate.
We are, &c.
(Signed) D. and T. Stevenson.
A, Cunningham, Esq.,
&c. &c.
Office of Committee of Privy Council
for Trade, Marine Department,
Sir, Wliitehall, 7th September 1858.
I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee
of Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the 17th ult., enclosing a copy of a
letter from Messrs. Stevenson ou the subject of their
charge for designing the Pabba Beacon.
In reply, I am to state for the information of the
Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, that my
Lords in their letter of the 11th ultimo, stated that the
sum of one hundred and twenty-one pounds (121/. 10«.)
appeared by the accounts rendered to that time to have
been expended in respect of the Pabba Beacon. Since
the date of that letter the accounts forwarded by the
Commissioners have been received ; and my Lords
find that charges for this beacon are contained therein
amounting to three hundred and sixteen pounds
eighteen shillings and seven-pence (3161. ISs. Id.),
being sums expended by J. J. Cochrane, for wages,
travelling, and incidental expenses.
The accounts already rendered to this Board
show, therefore, that the sum of four hundred and
thirty-eight pounds eight shillings and seven-pence
(438/. 8s. Id.) has been expended on the beacon in
question, to the end of June last ; and my Lords
reciuest that you will move the Commissioners to
furnish them with a statement of the sums expended
on this beacon subsequent to those contained in the
accounts rendered ; or if no payments Lave been
made, with a statement of the liabilities incurred, in
order that my Lords may have before them a detailed
account of the expenditure of this beacon, which
Messrs. Stevenson state in tlieir letter amounts to
five hundred and two pounds live shillings and ten-
pence (502/. 5s. 2d.).
I am, &c.
The Secretary (Signed) T. H. Faeeeb.
Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouse,
Edinburgh.
T. H. Farrer,
Ksq.
SiK,
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Edinburgh, 8th September 1858.
I AM directed by the Commissioners af
Northern Lighthouses to acknowledge receipt of
your letter of yesterday, stating that the expenditure
on Pabba Beacon, appearing from the accounts
rendered to the Board of Trade, was 438/. 8s. Id. ;
and I am directed to state that the Commissioners
have since paid ont 63/. IQs. Id.; tliese sums together
make the amount 902/. 5s. 2d., as stated by
Mr. Stevenson.
(Signed)
The Secretary
Marine Department,
Board of Trade.
I am, &c.
Alex. Cunningham.
Sir,
Office of Committee of Privy Council
for Trade, Marine Department,
Whitehall, 25 th September 1858.
I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee
of Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge tlie receipt
of your letter of the 8th instant, on the subject of the
expenditure ou the Pabba Beacon, and to request that
you will move the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses to be so good as to furnish their Lordships
with the further information specified below.
Enclosed is a statement of the several items of
expenditure so far as my Lords are able to make it
out.
The item No. 2 appears to be a charge amounting
to 41/. 12s. for wages to J. Cochrane, for inspecting
the progress of the work whilst at the manufacturers.
This inspection appears to have lasted nearly four
months, to have been paid for at the rate of 8i. a day,
and to have cost nearly a third of the original con-
tract price. My Lords request that the Commissioners
will inform them whether it is their usual practice to
allow a charge of this description. The Board of
Trade are, of course, aware that in the case of build-
ings erected by a contractor under the superinten-
dence of an engineer, it is customary to allow a clerk
of the works ; but they are not aware of any case,
whether in England, Leland, or the Colonies, where
work has been made and put together on the con-
tractor's premises for removal to erection in another
place in which there has been a separate charge for
an inspector present during the time for the con-
struction of the work. In other cases, apparently
similar, which have fallen under the cognizance of
this Board, the responsibility of certifying that works
of this description are properly executed has rested
with the engineer, and no extra charge has Ijeen made
by him on that account.
T 3
150
SnXUTES or evidence taken before the COSOnSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
r. H. Farrer,
The item Xo. 3. includes, iu addition to the 130/.
whii'h oonstiiutod theorij;inal contract price, fin addi-
tioual sum of 110/. 5s. Sd. tor work done in the con-
tractor'-s shop. My Lords would be glad to be
inibrnied how it happened that this work was not
included in the original specification.
My Lords jiresume that the item No. 4, amounting
to 108/. 12s. 5rf., is for the cost of erecting the beacou;
but they request to be informed if this is the case.
The item No. 6, amounting to 63/. IGs.'d., consists
of suras for which no accounts have yet been rendered.
Mv Lords would be obliged if the Commissioners
would inform them in what manner this sum has been
expended.
I am, &c.
(Signed) T. II. Fakuee.
The Secretary to the
Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses,
Ediubnrffh.
!Mr. Cochrane, after completing Cairnbulg and Pabba
during the past season, sometime since left their
employment.
I am, &c.
(Signed)
The Secretary
Marine Department,
Board of Trade.
Ales. Cuvkingiiam.
Secretary.
SiK,
Sir,
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Ediuburijh. 2d October 1858.
Office of Committee of Privy Council
for Trade, Marine Department.
Whitehall, 13th October 1858.
I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee
of Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of the 2d instant, relating to
the expenditure in respect of the Pabba Beacon.
With reference to this subject my Lords direct me
to observe that the facts of the case appear to be as
follows : —
jSIessrs. Stevenson, in their report of November
1856, recommended a beacon to be placed in the
Sound of Pabba. and estimated the cost at 500/.
This proposal having been submitted for the sanction
of the Trinity House by the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses, a Committee of Elder
I HAVE to acknowledge receipt of your letter B^ytiiren (accompanied by Captain Sulivan and
of 25th ultimo, enclosing a classified account of the j^j^.^ gteveuson) examined 'the place iu May 1857,
'" " ~ , . -- ,-..«- and stated it to be their opinion that one on a similar
cost of Pabba Beacou, and submitting certam queries
thereon. Having laid the same before the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lighthouses, I am directed to
state in reply, —
First, The qu.-ilifications required in an inspector at
the erection of a beacon are of a very peculiar nature,
as the execution is often a work of great difficulty,
and attended v.ith great risks. It is difficult to
appreciate the value of an acquaintance with fixtures
in rock and iron fitting being combined with a know-
ledge of boating in exposed situations. These
qualifications Mr." Cochrane has proved himself to
possess in an eminent degree, and to secure the ser-
vices of such an individual (taken from a previous
remunerating employment) the Commissioners have
found it necessary to give him permanent pay. Thus
Mr. Cochrane has been employed in preceding years
in attending the execution of Vasa, Calleach, Loch
Inver, and Stroma Beacons, the latter a work of great
difficulty. In the working season of 1857 he was
cno-a"-ed on Stroma, and in preparations for Cairn-
bufo-lBeacou ; but during the winter all beacon works
are^uecessarily suspended, and the Commissioners
are of opinion that in place of keeping the inspector
idle while in their pay, it was better to find employ-
ment for him iu the manufacturers' yards, where his
services are by no means disadvantageous. His
presence does not interfere with either the duty or
responsibility of the engineers in directing the works,
and had it not been that he was iu the Commissioners'
pay during the suspension of his active duties he
would not have been there at all.
Second, The Pabba Beacon was never estimated by
Messrs. Stevenson in iron ; they proposed to build it
of stone. ISIy Lords directed it to be of iron, on the
same principle as that designed for Calliach, and
drawings were accordingly made and oft'ers taken
upon this footing, and the work was executed in
terms of the drawing and offi^r. The situations of
Calliach and Pabba were however essentially different,
the latter re(piiring a 40-foot beacon, while the former
was only 20 ; and after the Pabba Beacou was com-
pleted :uid erected in the work yard in Edinburgh,
according to the original design, it was found not to
be sufficiently rigid, and additional ties were ordered
to be supplied till the engineers were satisfied of its
rigidity. Hence the charge for extra work, which
is correctly stated iu Mr. Dove's account.
Third, The item No. 6. in my Lords, classified
account, 63/. 16*. 7d., is of the same description, and
will fall to be included in the item No. 4, the cost of
(.reeling the beacon.
The Commissioners have to add that there being
no immediate prospect of additional beacon works,
principle to that on the Callacckstone might be suffi-
cient for the purpose. JMr. Stevenson, my Lords are
informed, at the same time stated his opinion that the
cost of a beacon to be made of iron on this principle
would cost less thau 200/.
My Lords then opproved of an iron beacon, similar
in character to that on the Callacckstone, instead of
one of stone, as before proposed.
Specifications and a sketch of an iron beacon were
then prepared by Messrs. Stevenson, and a tender
for the construction of the beacon for 130/. was
accepted. This tender did not include the erection.
It now appears that the sum expended on this iron
beacou amounts to 502/. 5s. 3d., instead of being less
thau 200/., as my Lords hoped and supposed would be
the case.
The details of the expenditure of this sum of
five hundred and two pounds five shilliugs and three-
pence (502/. OS. 3d.) appear to be as follows ; and if
the statement is not correct, my Lords will be obliged
if the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses will
correct it.
Statement of Account.
Paid Messrs. Stevenson, cousidering
subject of works for rocks in Sound of
Skye, correspondence, report. &c., and
time assistants preparing tracings, &c.
Travelling and personal expenses
Making tracings of Skye Beacon and
buoys for Trinity House and Board of
Trade - - - _ -
Paid .1. Cochrane wages for inspecting
beacou at manufacturers, 8*. per day at
four months - - "
Paid ]\Ir. Dove for beacon as per con-
tract - . . -
Ditto extra work in the manufacturers'
shop - - ...
Paid wages of inspector and workmen -
Travelling expenses of ditto -
Incidental expenses - -
Paid Railway Company for carriage of
materials - - - _ -
Further sums expended by Commis-
sioners, but whether in respect of cost
of work in the manufacturers' shop or of
work on the spot in erecting the beacon,
is not quite certain, as the accounts are
not received, and the terms of the Com-
missioners' last letter are not quite cle.ir
£
34 13
3 19
1 11 6
41 12 0
130 0 0
110
5
8
93
6
9
12
17
1
2
8
7
15 0
63 16 7
^502
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
151
Upon tills state of facts my Lords observe, —
First, That the whole cost has been a great deal more
than tlioy expected, and amounts to about the sum
which Messrs. Stevenson estimated the stone beacon
would cost.
Secondly, That Messrs. Stevenson's plan for the
work to be done iu the manufixcturers' shop must
have been far from complete and sufficient.
Thirdly, That a large item in the cost is for an
inspector in the manufacturer's shop, whoso services
it apjiears were not necessary for the purpose of the
particular work, who, however, was thus paid in order
to retain him in the service of the Commissioners, and
who has since left that service.
The money has now been spent, and my Lords
cannot refuse to sanction the payment of Messrs. Ste-
venson's percentage. But they think it right to
point out, for the special consideration of the Com-
missioners, how strongly this case illustrates tho
importance of having in all cases a complete estimate
of the whole cost of a work carefully prepared, sub-
mitted, and sanctioned before the work is undertaken.
As regards the charge for Mr. Cochrane's atten-
dance, my Lords think that it can hardly with propriety
be said to have been incurred on account of the
Pabba Beacon. They think also that no similar charge
should be incurred iu future cases of works of this
character.
I am, &c.
(Signed) T. IL Fai:ker.
The Secretary to the
Commissioners of
Xorthern Lighthouses.
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Sir, Edinburgh, 23d December 1858.
Your letter of the 13th October, on the sub-
ject of Pabba Beacon, was duly received, and laid
Ijefore the Commissioners, who referred it for expla-
nation to Messrs. Stevenson. They have now re-
ceived the observations of these gentlemen, and I am
directed to enclose a copy.
I am, &c.
(Signed) Alex. CuNNiNc.nAM,
The Secretary Secretary.
Marine Department
Board of Trade.
(Copy.)
Dear Sir, Edinburgh, 22d December, IS.jS.
We have to acknowledge having received
from you the letter from the Board of Trade of 13th
October last, relative to Pabba Beacon, and we re"Tet
tliat circumstances have prevented us from sooner
replying to it.
We siiould willingly have avoided making a reply,
but some of the statements regarding us personally
seem to us to I'equire explanation.
The first statement which we would notice is, that
wherein it is said that " this case sti-ongly illustrates
" the importance of having in all cases a complete
" estimate of the whole cost of a work carefully pre-
" pared, submitted, and sanctioned before the work is
'■ nudertaken." In the case of Pabba, as indeed in
all cases, this course was followed. We prepared
and submitted to the Commissioners an estimate
amounting to oOO^. for a stone beacon, which we con-
sidered the most suitable design for the locality.
That design was however objected to by the Board of
Trade, and we were ordered to erect a beacon of
malleable iron, which has cost about 5001. For this
beacon no estimate was either asked from us, or made
by us, but it appears that a casual conversation as to
its probable cost has been founded on. The letter
states that " their Lordships are informed that Mr,
" Stevenson gave his opinion, on the late voyao-e with
" Captain Sulivan and tho Elder Brethren, that a
" beacon of iron, made on the same princi-ole as that
" of Calliach, would cost less than 200/." Mr. Thos. j, ^^ p^^^^^
Stevenson, who accompanied the deputation, has no ' £^„
recollection of having made such a statement with '-
reference to Pabba, nor does it seem possible that it 18 Dec. isco.
could have been made, seeing that the small spur
beacon of Calliach, measuring only 20 feet high, and
erected on a rock that almost never covers, cost 115/. ,
while Pabba Beacon is 40 feet high, and is submerged
to the depth of 15 feet at high water, and much more
exposed. There must, therefore, it is evident, be
some misunderstauding on this point. But it is clear
that any such verbal, ofi'hand opinion, even if it were
causually made in the course of general conversation,
could not, and ought not to have been regarded as
Laving .any definite value, having been given in ab-
sence of plans and data, and without any arithmetical
calculation whatever, and certainly without tho very
slightest conception that such a statement would lie
regarded as an official communication to be after-
wards founded on.
The next point wc have to notice is a comphiiiit as
to the incompleteness and insufficiency of our plans,
which were furnished for tlie contractor to work
from ; and here it becomes necessary to give some
explanation of the circumstances of tliis work,
although we have already d(5ne so in our letter of
29th September. The kind or style of lieacou which
was adopted at Pabba diflers from what is in common
use, and was introduced by us several years ago, and
applied at certain parts of the coast where the
beacons were not exposed, and did not require to ex-
ceed about 20 feet in lieight. At Pabba, however,
owing to the peculiarity of the site, the requisite
height was 40 feet, and while we foresaw that the
same principle could not be applied without extra
staying or bracing, we could not tell beforehand the
exact amount of bracing which might be found neces-
sary in order to produce sufficient rigidity. We
therefore considered it advisable that the contractor
should make as few ties as possible in the first in-
stance, so that when the main pillars of the beacon
were framed together tie after tie could be added till
the desired rigidity was obtained, and our plans and
specification were framed accordingly. In this way
we avoided the risk of having tjes forged which
might afterwards be found to be unnecessarj'. In
fact, the structure was purely an experimental one,
and the experiment was not proposed by us (as we
recommended stone) but by the Board of Trade, and
we state with confidence that our plans and specifi-
cations provided " completely " aud " sufficiently "
for the carrying out of that experiment in the most
economical manner in which it could be done, which
is the object of all successful engineering.
We shall only add, that we think we can, with
equal confidence, refer the Commissioners to the
amount of our estimates as compared to the actual
cost of our works, in proof of the care with which
our designs are considered and our estimates are
made. Thus we find that the five new lighthouses of
Rona, Ushenish, Kyleakin, Oronsay, and Sound of
Mull (the accounts of which are now closed), were
estimated by us at the aggregate sum of 32,000/., aud
they have cost 30,911/. 15^. Stroma Beacon, esti-
mated at 1,000/., cost 1,191/. 13s. lOd. ; Loch Inver
Beacon, estimated at 700/., cost 710/. 17*. ; while the
works of Uust, Whalsey, Brcssay, aud C.anturkhead, of
which the accounts are not yet quite closed, will show
a no less close approximation between the first esti-
mate and the actual cost.
The only other point in their Lordships' letter
which we have to mention is that with reference to
our fee of 27/. lOs. for the erection of Pabba Beacon.
On this subject their Lordships state, that as '■ the
" money has now been spent, they cannot refuse to
" sanction the payment of Messrs. Stevenson's per-
" centage." We regret that we cannot regard this ex-
pression, when taken in connexion with the state-
ments which precede it, in any other light than that
of censure. We are unable, however, to sej in what
respect such censure applies to us in the particular
152
MINTJTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COJDnSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
T. H. Farrer case in question ; and we have yet to learn that a
£sg. beacon 40 feet high, erected on a low tide rock, sub-
merged 15 feet at high water, and placed in a remote
IS Dec. 1S60. district of the highlands, can be efficientl;/ constructed
for a sum materially under the cost at which Pabba
Beacon has been constructed.
Holding these views, we feel that we should be
compromising our position and our own feelings were
we to accejjt the fees under such a reservation as to
the sanction for their payment as the letter of the
Board of Trade conveys, and therefore we have re-
spectfully to inform the Commissioners, that while
that censure (which we trust has arisen from mis-
conception of the circumstances of the case) remains
unrecalled, we prefer to decline accepting our fees in
connexion with the work in question.
We are, &c.
(Signed) D. and T. STETEXso>f.
Alexander Cuningham, Esq.
Office of Committee of Privy Council for Trade,
Marine Department,
Slit, Whitehall, 4th January 18.59.
I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee of
Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge the receipt
of your letter of the 23d ultimo, transmitting copy
of Messrs. Stevenson's observations on the letter from
this department of the 13th October last, relating to
the Pablia Beacon.
In reply, my Lords direct me to request that you
will point out to the Conmiissioners of Northern
Lighthouses, that when the sketch of the iron beacon
was forwarded to the Board of Trade, with a tender
for its execution for 130/. (which was after the sur-
vey of the place by the Elder Brethren, Capt. Sulivan,
and Mr. Stevenson), no information was given to
their Lordships that the sketch was an experiment,
still less that such heavy expenses for additional work
and inspection as have since been incurred would be
required. My Lords cannot but think that the in-
terest of the public service would have been better
served had Mr. Stevenson, if he foresaw these matters,
brought them to the notice of the Commissioners, and
pointed out that an iron lieacon would probably be as
costly as the one originally proposed, more especially
as all parties must have Ijeen aware that the sole
ground of proposing a change was a presumed savin'^
of expense.
I have, &c.
(Signed) T. H. Farreb.
The Secretary
Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses,
Edinburgh.
Northern Lighthouse Office,
Sir, Edinburgh, 14th January 1859.
I AM directed by the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses to acknowledge the receipt of
your letter of the 4th instant regarding the accounts
for Pabba Beacon. Having communicated this to
Messrs. Stevenson, I am directed to transmit a copy
of their answer.
I am further directed to add, that so far back as
22d July last, ]\Iessrs. Stevensons' accounts, amount-
ing to 920/. 14s, Ad., were transmitted to my Lords.
As the Conmiissioners now understand that Messrs.
Stevenson decline to accept the percentage on this
beacon, while no objection has been stated to the other
accounts, the Commissioners submit that they should
be returned for payment.
I am, &c.
(Signed) Alex, Ccxningham,
The Secretary Secretary.
Marine Department,
Board of Trade.
(Copy.)
Edinburgh, 8th January 1859.
(Pabba Beacon.)
Deak Sir,
We have received from you the letter of
4th .January from the Lords Commissioners of the
Board of Trade, in answer to ours of the 23d De-
cember, regarding Pabba Beacon. It is evident that
there exists to some extent a misunderstanding at the
Board of Trade with reference not only to the work
itself, but also to our connexion it with ; and, there-
fore, we have again, very reluctantly, to address
the Commissioners on the subject.
It is stated in the letter of the 4th January from
their Lordships, that the sketch of the iron beacon
was forwarded, with a tender for its execution, for
130/. ; that sum, as the Commissioners are aware,
only included the cost of the work delivered at
Granton, but did not cover the additional expense of
its erection, and other contingencies, which their
Lordships appear to have greatly under estimated.
Their Lordships consider that it was our duty to
have stated that such additional outlay would be
required ; but it did not occur to us to do this, seeing
that the specification stipulated distinctly that the
beacon was to be delivered at Granton ; and it was
therefore apparent on the face of the documents that
additional expenditure would be requisite. We, there-
fore, did not make an estimate of the additional
expenditure required ; but, had we been called upon
to do so, we could have furnished an approximate
total estimate. That estimate, although our original
views as to the requisite number of additional
braces, and the time occupied in erection, have been
somewhat exceeded, we should certainly not have
stated lower than 400/., being 100/. below our esti-
mate for the stone beacon. But, not having been
required to furnish such an estimate, the whole of the
misunderstanding in the matter has followed, and for
this we submit, that if blame is to be imputed at all,
it certainly does not rest with us.
The additional work referred to may be divided
into two compartments :
First. The additions made to the beacon before it
left the contractors' workyard. These were the addi-
tional braces, amounting to 62/. \~s.'2d., the applica-
tion of which was consequent on the experimental
nature of the structure, and was partially aiiticiiiated;
also additional fixtures which Avere required to adapt
the beacon to the rock on which it was placed. This
latter alteration, which formed only the ordinary
addition to a work during its progress, and included
tools, templets, &c., cost 47/. 8s. Id., making the total
sum for the additional works before the beacon left
Edinlmrgh, 110/. os.9d.
The Second compartment, forming the greater part
of the additional outlay, embraces the carriage of the
beacon to its site, and its erection thereon, and
amounts to 221/. 15s. lOd.
In explanation of this part of the outlay, we have
to state that the rock on which the beacon was placed
was found to be very difficult to work, and was, more-
over uncovered for only a very short time during
spring tides, and piu-t of four months was occupied in
sinking the six a]K'rtures for the uprights.
In February only 14 hours work could be enected
on the rock.
In !ALirch only 32 hours work could be effi.'Cted on
the rock.
Til April only 35^ hours work could be effiicted on
the rock, being only 8 days of 10 hours a day diu'ing
these three months.
Their Lordshi]is also seem to consider that we
ought to have stated that the beacon was experi-
mental. In answer to this we have only to say that
we understood that all the parties interested were per-
fectlv aware of the fact that the largest beacon which
had up till that date been constructed by the Commis-
sioners on that principle was the Calliach Stone,
which was only 20 feet high, and that the Pabba Bea-
con, which was 40 feet high, placed on a tide-covered
INQUIRE INTO THE COXDITION A\D MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND HEACOXfi.
15.3
rock, and submerged 15 feet at high water, was there-
fore to that extent an experimental structure. The
construction aUuded to was introduced hy us a few
years ago, and adojited with marked econoni)' for some
small beacons, with the approval of the Board of
Trad(!, who suggested its application at Pabba also.
We certainly did not anticipate that our endeavours
to reduce the cost of beacons by the introduction of
ii new constrnction should have involved us in this
correspondence regarding Pabba, where the new con-
struction was substituted for the stone beacon, whicli
we considered to be the most suitable for that
locality.
However we may regret the misunderstanding
which has occurred, we certainly did not create it,
and we think it is not just that it should be made the
ground of personal censure on us, which we regret
to oliservc their Lordships' letters appear to conve}'.
We are, &c.
(Signed) D. and T. Stevexsox.
A. Cuningham, Esq.,
Secretary Northern Lishthousc Board.
Office of Committee of Privy Council for Trade, f ^ Farrer
Marine Department, Esq.
Sir, Whitehall, 20th January 18.59.
I AM directed by the Lords of the Committee 18 Dec. I860.
of Privy Council for Trade to acknowledge the
receipt of your letter of tho 14th inst., on the
subject of the .accounts for Pabba Beacon, My Lords
return the accounts which were forwarded with
reference to this subject, in order that they may be
settled by the Commissioners.
I am, &e.
(Signed) T. A. Faurf.r.
The Secretarj- to the
Commissioners of Ivorthern Lighthouses.
Thursday, 20th December 1860.
PRESENT :
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baii.lie Hamilton-.
Captain Alfred Phillips Rtder, R.N.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Duncan Dunbar, Esq.
Samuel Robert Graves, Esq.
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hajiilton in the Chair.
Rear-Admiral Robert Gordon (Deputy Master of the Trinity House) examined.
345. (Chairman.) Since what time have you been
Deputy Master of the Trinity House ? — Since August
1858.
346. Does it occur to you that any improvement
might be made in the mode of electing the Elder
Brethren ? — I cannot imagine that the Board would
lie improved by any diiferent mode of election from
the present, as it is obviously the interest of the
Elder Brethren themselves to elect men whose quali-
fications are known, and who are able and willing to
take their share in the active duties which devolve
upon them, which might not be the case if the
elections depended upon influence out of doors.
347. Are you of opinion that the duties performed
by an Elder Broiher, during the first eight years that
he is in the Examining Committee are of service, as
better fitting him for a post on the Light Committee ?
— There is no rule that the first eight years after an
Elder Brother's election, should be served in tho
Examining Committee ; his appointment thei-eto being
dependent upon circumstances ; but that is the period
that a member will usually remain, when once ap-
pointed to it. Three out of the four present members
of that Committee had previously passed four years
in the Committee for Lights. The experience acquired
in the Examining Committee is of advantage in the
future consideration of questions which may come
before the Elder Brethren in other Committees, or at
the Board.
348. You have stated that the experience acquired
upon the Examining Committee is of advantage
for the future duties of the acting Elder Brethren ;
do you refer more particularly to the duties, and to
questions, relating to ligliting, buoying, &c. ? — Yes.
The general knowledge and information that they get
upon all questions relating to Buoyage, Beaconage,
Pilotage, and the capacity of Pilots, is of importance in
all the duties performed by an Elder Brother.
349. {C'nptahi liyder.) Is it possible, under tho
present svsteni of nominating the Committees, that an
Elder Brother, who has only lately become an Elder
20 Dec. 1860.
Brother, may be nominated one of the Examining; Uear-Adm.
Committee or of the Light Committee ? — Yes ; because Robert Gordon.
the Committees being nominated on Trinity Monday
in each year, any vacancy that subsequently takes
place is usually filled by the member coming in,
unless there shall be strong grounds for an alteration.
350. {3Ir. Gladsto7ic.) Can 30U mention any in-
stances of that having actually been carried into
effect ? — Yes ; I may say that Captain Bayly, who is
present, was in that position ; he was placed in the
Light Committee, and h.as remained so to the present
time, and Captain Arrow also ; it is the general rule.
351. {Captain Ryder.) Are the members of the
Examining Committee and the Light Committee se-
lected for any peculiar qualifications for the work to
lie done by those Committees, or in what way are they
elected ? — They succeed by rotation. The Deputy
Chairman, who is next in seniority in the Committee,
succeeds to the Chair ; the Chairman leaving every
year, with the exception of the Chairman of the
Examining Committee, who remains two years.
352. Am I to understand you to say, that the
members of the Light Committee and Examining
Committee are among the youngest of the Elder
Brethren, or not ? — I should say that they usually are
so, because they at once enter upon the most active
executive duties of the Corporation, by which alone
their experience can be matured.
353. (Chairman.) The number of acting Elder
Brethren being fixed, do you consider that it would
be advantageous to the interests of the Service to
facilitate the retirement of the more aged amongst
the Elder Brethren, so that younger members might
be more rapidly admitted to the list of acting Elder
Brethren? — I think it would be advantageous,
although at the jtresent moment there are no members
of the Board whose opinions and unfailing judgment
are of more value than those of the two eldest mem-
bers of the Corporation, who alone, for some years to
come, would be atfected by a scheme for retirement ;
yet it is unjust that a man who has been actively
U
154
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN I3EF0EE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Eear-Jidm
Jlobert Gordi
enfased for 20 or 25 years should be compelled to
remam in harness until his death. It is not so with
the clerks of the establishment, who have the option
20Dic. 1S60. of i-ytirement at 60 years of age, under fixed regula-
tions, and it is, of course, an advantage to every ser-
vice that promotion should be kept up in it. I think
therefore that the Elder Brethren should retire on
their full salaries, after the age of 70, with the
exception of the Deputy Master, for whom an allow-
ance of five sixths might be deemed sufficient : but if
he should vacate the Chair before that age, I think he
ought to be allowed to retire from the Board, as he
could not well return to the general duties of the Com-
mittees any more than a captain could well again
become a first lieutenant.
354. Have the recommendations of tiie Committee
of the House of Commons of 1834 with regard to the
more extended admission of naval officers into the
Trinity House been adopted, and if not, can you say
why ? I am not aware that the number of naval
officers was specified by either of the Committees of
the House of Commons. At the present moment
there are two members qualified by naval service,
and one other, a lieutenant in the navy, vvho
qualified by commanding a merchant ship. I think
the circumstance that a larger number of naval
officers have not been elected Elder Brethren may
be attributed partly to the infrequency of vacancies,
and partly to the consideration that as the funds of
the Corporation are provided by the merchant shipping
and not by the navy, it is scarcely just to the mem-
bers of the merchant service that they should be
precluded from attaining the only position to which
they can aspire as the result of honourable servitude in
the mercantile marine of the country.
355. With respect to the present remuneration of
the Elder Brethren, do you consider it adequate to
all the duties they hnve to perform ? — I consider the
remuneration very ir.adequate to the services they
are called upon to peribrm. The duties of the Elder
Brethren have greaiiy increased, but not so their
remuneration, w^hich ought to be increased also. I
shall be glad to auswrr the most searching questions
on this head, as a del; sion exists among many persons
that although the s^.iary of the Elder Brethren is
but small, they have the means of reimbursing them-
selves from some othtr source.
356. {Mr. Graves.) Is there any other source of
income attaching to the office of the Elder Brethren
besides the 7,000/. chargeable to the Mercantile
Marine Fund for the remuneration of the whole
Board of 20 ? — Nothing whatever beyond the small
remuneration they receive for attending and advising
the judge of the Admiralty Court, which is paid by
the litigating parties, aud averages about lOl. annually.
The fee is two guineas each day. Sometimes causes
last over one day, but it is rare, for they are usually
settled in a day. It very frequently has taken me a
day or two to go into all the voluminous evidence
on both sides before I went into Court to assist the
judge. As Deputy Master I do not attend the Admi-
ralty Court.
357. ( Captain Ryder.) Are there any naval officers
among the Younger Brethren eligible for election of
the Elder Brethren ? — Yes, several.
358. Can you furnish the Commission with a list
of those who are candidates for appointment as Elder
Brethren, showing how long it is since they com-
menced to be candidates ? — Yes; it shall be sent.
The same icas handed in as follows :-
7th Dec. 1858 - Captain Rich. CoUinson, K.N.,
C.B.
6th Sept. 1859 - Captain Samuel Grurnev Cres-
well. E.X.
3rd April 1860 • Captain Sherard Osborn, R.N..
C.B.
1st Mav 1860 . Captain Erasmus Ommaney,
K.N.
359. What is the mode of electing a Younger
Brother to become an Elder Brother ? — He must be
proposed by one member of the Board, aud seconded
by another, and is then elected by ballot to be placed
upon the list of Candidates. The Elder Brethren are
selected from this list by ballot. A candidate must have
commanded a ship for four years. In the navy
the rule is not so stringent as to the period. A
Younger Brother becomes eligible to 'be elected an
Elder Brother on being admitted as a Candidate.
360. {Mr. Graves.) Do the members of the Light
Committee sit as nautical advisers in the Admiralty
Court ? — Yes ; in turn with other members.
361. {3Ir. Dunbar.) Does His Eoyal Highness the
Prince Consort receive any remuneration as Master
of the Trinity House ? — Not one farthing.
362. Do any of the Honorary Brethren receive any
remuneration ? — Nothing whatever.
363. {Mr. Graves.) Are the honorary members ever
called upon to perform any duties at the Trinity
House ? — They can sit and vote at the Courts as has
occasionally been done.
364. It appears from a Return at page 70, that the
average period which the present members of the
Corporation of Trinity House have to wait on the
list of Younger Brethren previously to election to
Elder Brethren, is about 9 years, 3 being the shortest,
and 24 the longest period ; can you say whether such
detention acts prejudicially or otherwise on the
efficiency of the Corporation ? — Such a Return is no
test of the average period, because a member may be
a Younger Brother, and even a Candidate for many
years Avhile he continues going to sea; but he only
becomes an Eligible Candidate for election when he
has ceased going to sea, and is prepared to under-
take the duties of the Corporation.
365. Can you favour us with a return, showing the
period that the members of the present Board had
to remain from the time they became eligible to the
time of their election ? — A return shall be made.
The same was handed in as follows : —
Rear- Admiral Gordon. Deputy-^Mn^tor about S years.
Captain Weller - " '■ '_
., Madan - - ■• j -,
„ Pixley
„ Farquharsou
., Farrer
„ Bax
„ Redman
„ Owen
„ Pigott
„ Shuttleworih
., Drew
5lh May 1840
7th Nov. 1843
4th August 1846
1st Dec. 1846
28th Jan. 1851,
date of re-ad-
mission to list
of candidates.
Read-Admiral the Honourable
Frederick de Ros.
Captain George Evans, R.N.
Captain Lewis T. Jones, R.N.
Captain Bart. J. Sulivan, R.N.
Rear- Admiral Robert FitzRoy,
(an Elder Brother from July
1837 to June 1843).
y
4
8
11
Were
Pelly
Close
Fenwick
Bavly
Webb
Nisbet
Arrow
If
3|
3
366. In the election from Younger ^ to Elder
Brethren, is there any limitation of age ? — Not by
statute or rule ; but by practice a candidate after 50
is not likely to be elected.
367. I desire to know whether practically the elec-
tion of Elder Brethren has been usually confined to
ship masters sailing out of London ? — Practically it
has been confined to officers who have commanded
ships out of Loudon.
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
155
368. (Afr. Dunbar.) Have you ever had any ship
masters not belonging to London as Candidates, or are
there any at, the present moment wlio are Candidates;
for example, have you ever had a master from Liver-
pool or Glasgow, or any other outport, who desired
fo heeome a Candidate ? — Yes; I believe that Captain
Richard Drew came from Bristol ; he was one of the
Elder Brethren. Two of the present members of
the r5oard had sailed frequently from other ports than
London ; and the qualifioation of one was partly from
Liverpool and partly from Loudon.
369. Have any persons at the outports applied to
be made Younger Brethren ? — Yes.
370. Can you give the number witliin the last .50
years ? — About 30 ; but there is no condition as to
what port a man belongs to, provided he proves his
qualitieation as having commanded a ship.
371. {Captain Ryder.) What is the number of the
Younger Brethren ? — There is no limit as to numbers,
but, as far as can be ascertained, there are now living
about ISO.
372. What proportion of the Younger Brethren
belong to ships trading from London, and what pro-
portion belong to ships trading from the ontports ? —
It would appear to be in the proportion of one to live.
373. ( Chairman.) Do any of the statutes relating
to the Trinity House provide that the Younger
Brethren shall be exempt from public civil duties ? —
Yes ; under the Charter of Incorporation they are
exempt from serving on juries, and from filling
parochial offices.
374. Then this may in some way account for the
long list of Younger Brethren ? — Yes.
The following extracts from an old record of the Cor-
poration may explain the views originally entertained
upon this subject. " Exemption from land service was
" grounded on a supposition that all the members of the
'• Cor|)(iration are by its constitution obliged to attend
" the King's service at sea for defence of the realm at
" one hour's warning." And it is urged by Mr. Pepj's,
who was the first INIaster of the Corporation under
the Charter of Confirmation of King James the First,
that the number of the Younger Brethren could not be
too great, that mariners are the strength of the nation,
that every one has a right to be a Brother, and that
if there were 4,000 it would be much more for the
King's service than 400.
375. (^Captain Bt/der.) How many candidates
among the Younger Brethren are there at the present
moment for Elder Brethren? — 59; but of these
probalily 40 are ineligible, either from the [icrmanent
disqualification of age, or the temporary ones of hold-
ing commands, or being in public employment, or in
business as brokers.
376. {Mr. Graves.) Do you think it desirable that
any one should be admitted to be a Younger Brother
who does not mean, bona fide, to become ultimately a
candidate for the office of an Elder Brother ? — 1 see
no advantage to the public service in a man who
becomes a Younger Brother under those circum-
stances. I cannot tell what the intentions of a man
may be.
377. {Captain Ryder.) Does the fact of the master
of a merchant ship being a Younger Brother recom-
mend him to shipowners for employment ? — I do not
imagine that it has any weight.
378. Are any inquiries made as to the character of
men before they are nominated Younger Brethren ? —
No, not by the Board ; it has been held that e\ cry
man who has commanded a ship is entitled to
become a Younger Brother.
379. (Mr. Dunhar.)l!i it not the practice to require
a good introduction from a respectable person before
a man is nominated a Younger Brother ? — It is the
Practice that the person proposing a Younger Brother
should have ascertained his character.
380. He must be proi^osed by an Elder Brother ? —
Yes.
381. {Chairman.) Then, practically speaking, any
Elder Brother before proposing a person to become a
u
Younger Brother satisfies himself as to his j)revious
character and services ? — Yes.
382. {3Ir. Graves.) I think you stated that when
an applicant, to be made a Younger Brother, is proved
to be eligible, he has to undergo election by ballot on
the part of the court ? — No, not to be made a Younger
Brother.
383. {Captain Ryder.) Has any applicant been
rejected ? — Never, that I remember.
384. {Mr. Graves.) Can you suggest any change
that would lead to any imiuovcment in the present
mode of admitting Younger Brethren ? — No ; I do
not see that any is required. It is so open to every
one for admission as a Younger Brother, that I do
not see that any advantage could be gained.
385. Do you consider that the open character of
the admission is as likely to produce efficient appli-
cants as if the number of the applicants was limited
by annual election ? — I cannot see any advantage in
that.
386. {Mr. Dunbar.) Do you see any objection to
the shipping interest through the Local JVIarine
Boards electing a certain number of the Elder
Brethren ? — I consider that it would be highly pre-
judicial to the independence of the Corporation if any
of its members were appointed as delegates from any
particular ports, however great, wealth}-, or impor-
tant those ports might be. The Corporation holds
itself aloof from all parties, politics, or local influences
of every kind, and considers that its functions are to
assist, protect, and forward to the utmost of the power
entrusted to it the great aud important niaritime
interests of the United Kingdom at large.
387. {Mr. Graves.) How many committees have
practically to deal with matters relating to Lights,
Buoys, and Beacons? — As committees, the Light Com-
mittee, and the Examining Committee are princi-
pally concerned ; but they have no independent con-
trol without the sanction of the Board.
388. Is there not also a committee that has to deal
with matters of account, revenues, &c. ? — Yes; that
is the Wardens.
389. (Mr. Gladstone.) What proportion of the
time occupied by the general courts is given to the
subject of Lights, Buoys, and Beacons ? — That varies
and must depend upon the amount of work that is
before them.
390. I mean, tiiking it on the whole, taking the year
round ; is it half or the greater part of the time ? —
It is one very important portion of the duties ; it is
rather difficult to say what proportion it is, because
there is never a Board that there is not something
connected with Lights, Buo_ys, and Beacons to con-
sider ; it is the main part of the business. All these
subjects are considered both in Committee and at the
Board.
391. (Chairman.) Is there any ditFerence between
a Board and a Court ? — Yes ; the Courts meet
monthly aud the Boards weekly ; the Courts must
consist of 16 members, with the Master or Deputy-
Master in the Chair, and they confirm the proceedings
of the Boards aud Committees.
392. Then those Courts are irrespective of the
general Court, which is held on Trinity Monday? —
Entirely so.
393. (Captain Ryder.) Would a shipmaster at
Liverpool who applied aud got made a Younger
Brother be exempt from parochial duties in Liver-
pool ? — Yes.
394. {Mr. Graves.) I think you said that there is
no person a member of the Board, whose qualification
was from the outports ? — Yes, with the exceptions
before named.
395. {Captain Ryder.) K any applications were
made from the outports in the United Kingdom,
would there be any objection, on the part of the
Corporation, to nominate the applicants as Younger
Brothers if 2)roperly recommended ? — None whatever,
from any port in the United Kingdom.
Rear-Adm,
Molicit Gordon.
iOD
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEX BEFORE THE COMMISSIOXERS APPOIXTED TO
""O Dec. ISBO.
Bear-Adm. 396. (Chairman?) I see that on the Committee for
'fo4er< GuTilon. Lighthouses there are five names exclusive of that of
tlie houorarv chairman, can you sav what is tlie
averaee number of the members of that Committee
who attend ? — Ever}' one attends constantly.
397. ( To Captain Bai/Ii/.) You are one of tlie
Elder Biethicn of the Trinity House, and Chairman
of the Light Committee ? — Yes.
398. There being five members on the Light Com-
mittee, of which you are the Chairmau, can you state
what the average attendance at the meetings of that
committee is ? — I should think upon the average there
are three there every day; the members are frequently
awaj' on duty; sometimes two members are away for
three weeks on duty afloat.
399. ( To Admiral Gordon.) I believe that under
the ftlerchant Shipping Act the accounts of the
Lighthouse tolls are laid before Parliament at an
earlier period than they used to be before that Act
came into operation. This, I conclude, must be con-
sidered as an advantage and an improvement so far.
Could jou inform the Commissioners generally of the
benefits that have accrued to the interests of navi-
gation, and the juirposes for which sea marks and
lights were intended, by the operation of those clauses
of the Merchant Shipping Act, which relate to the
control exercised under that Act, over the three
Lighthouse Bo.ards ? — I am not aware of any benefit
having resulted to the public service by placing the
Trinity House under the control of the Board of
Trade, beyond that of having the accounts of the
Lighthouse Tolls laid before Parliament at an earlier
])eriod than thej' used to be ; but the accounts, so far
as they i-elate to the Trinity House, were then far
more explanatory than they are at present. The
ground for giving such extensive powers to the Board
of Trade over the affairs of the Trinity House was,
that Parliament ought to have a greater control
over the Light duties, which were considered as
public money ; but in fact, Parliament does not now
vote the money for the service of the Corporation,
but only sees the Eeturns laid before it by the Board
of Trade, who regulate the expenditure at their
absolute pleasure.
400. Then sujjposing an act passed or a regulation
made by which a return \\ as had to the state of things
as they existed when the Trinity House had the sole
management of the funds, does it seem to you now,
as you have had some experience as a member of the
Corporation of Trinity House, and have seen the
working of its machinery, that you could have
proceeded gradually to diminish the Light duos ?
— There can be no doul>t that the tolls would
have been reduced under the sole management of
the Corporation, when the debts which they had
been obliged to incur by order of Parliament in the
purchase of private lights, had been paid off. I
think they would havu been reduced quite as low
as at present.
401. Do you consider that any greater reduction
in light dues would by this time have been made liy
the Trinity House had they continued in the un-
interrupted control and management of their funds,
as was the case prior to the passing of the ^Merchant
Shipping Act, and before the Act of 1836 Avhich
obliged them to make those costly purchases? — It is
now impossible to say exactly what reductions would
have lieen made.
402. {Mr. Dunbar.) Putting aside the question of
charity, would you, as a Corporation, have considered
yourselves justified in accumulating upwards of
300,000/. out of funds rai.sed for the lights from
the .shipi)ing interest ? — Xo, certainly not.
403. Do you consider that any disadvantage has
arisen to the shipping interests through the double
action of the Board of Trade and the Trinity House?
— The assumption of control over the expenditure,
in the most trifling matters, has, I think, unneces-
sarily increased the details of the accounts and the
correspondence between the two boards, and has
caused a greater feeling of dissatisfaction than any
other subject, because the Elder Brethren were led
to believe, when they acquiesced in the Merchant
Shipping Act, that it was not the ntention of the
Board of Trade to interfere in their duties, but that
their Accounts of Income andExpentlitiire alone were
to pass through that department. It was, however,
soon found that but few of the general duties of the
Trinity House could be carried on without involving
questions relating to money, of the disbursement of
which the Board of Trade assumed the direction,
which they exercised in a manner which I cannot
but consider as frivolous and unnecessarily arbitrary,
and interfering with the " management'' vested in the
Trinity House by the Act. I apply the terms frivo-
lous, arbitrary, to cases like the following: On submit-
ting a specification for a new steam vessel to the
Board of Trade, they refused to sanction a double
bulk head, which the Elder Brethren thought
desirable, and in the specification for the cabin
furniture they struck out the word " sofa," and
introduced the word " seat." Secondly, on the
appointment of the successor to the Buoy Keeper at
the Tees, whose duties are very important in constantly
watching the shifting of the sands, and as frequenllv
removing the buoys, the Elder Brethren appointed
the son of the late keeper, who had constantly as-
sisted his father, and is a very alile and intelligent
young man. The Board of Trade would not sanc-
tion his appointment until after much unnecessary
correspondence on the sr.bject. On another occasion
the Board of Trade " insisted " upon being furnished
with some charts which had been placed in the
hands of the Elder Brethren, as the private property
of one of the Sub-commissioners of Pilotage at
Ipswich, which of course we refused to give up,
without the sanction of the owner. Again, in not
only prescribing the mode in which our accounts
shall be kept, but in sending an officer to inspect
the method adopted for keeping them at the wliarf
at Blackwall. Again, moreover, in matters of Con-
tracts, the Board of Trade require all specifications
to be sent to them liefore tenders are invited, and
they prescribe the manner and extent of the invitation;
and when the tenders are received, if the Elder
Brethren think it expedient not to adopt the lowest
their reasons are often overruled, and even if the
lowest tender is proposed for acceptance the Board
of Trade still require to see all the tenders that
hsxc been sent in before any one is accepted. It
requires but one step further to render the whole
system ridiculous, iiamel}-, to furnish their Lord-
ships with samples of all the various items of food,
clothing, &c., they arbitrate upon. The delay
thus occasioned has been stated by the contrac-
tors in some cases to be very objectionable, as
the market price of an article may fluctuate con-
siderably between the time of making the tender
and that of the decision come to upon it. In
one instance the Board of Trade proposed to invite
tenders for the repair of the Lyra sailing vessel,
and it was only upon a very strong remonstrance to
the effect that such an arrangement had been found
by shipowrcrs to be practically dis.advantageous, it
being impossible to ascertain the exact amount of
repair re(iuired by a vessel until she had been placed
in the shipwright's hands, and her defects discovered,
and that the tender consequently covered all possible
contingencies^lhat their Lordships then consented
to the work being done in the ordinaiy way. The
result justified this course, the vessel having proved
sounder when stripped than had been anticipated,
and the expense c<msequently .smaller than any con-
tractor could have ventured to name. While on the
subject of Contracts I may mention some exceptions.
The Board of Trade, not anxious I presume to iucur
the serious responsibility attending the safety of our
Lightvessels, allowed cliain cables to be exceptions
to the supplies by contract, and permitted the Elder
Brethren to continue their practice of requiring
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
157
Messrs. Brown, Lenox, & Co. to manufiicture
cli.'iius for their special service of the very best
material and -workmauship that can be obtained,
arranging the price per ton at the commencement of
each year. The Board of Trade lias also very
recently allowed the Elder Brethren to confine their
tenders for Lightvessels to a limited nnmber of highly
respectable building firms, chiefly in the River, where
the work can be executed under their own and their
surveyors immediate supervision. Some of these
matters are, perhaps, trifles in themselves, but they
indicate the power the Board of Ti-ade assumes in
our concerns, and the inconsistency of the whole
proceeding, because the Elder Brethren are frequently
referred to by the Board of Trade to procure Light,
house works for colonial or foreign governments.
This, although evincing confidence in the Elder
Brethren, tells the other way as to their integrity
and judgment in th: management of their own con-
cerns. In affairs of real importance, with the ex-
ception of the Godrevy Lighthouse and a pilotage
case at Falmouth which is referred to in the Ap-
pendix to the Report of the Select Committee of the
House of Commons on Merchant Shipping, the dif-
ferences have been very few — they have not occa-
sioned the feeling of irritation caused by the inter-
ference in minor matters, in which I consider the
Board of Trade to have greatly exceeded any powers
granted to fhcm by the 422nd Sections of the Mer-
chant Shipping Act.
404. {C/iairman.) You have stated that the Board
of Trade requires all specifications to be sent to them
before tenders ai'e invited, and that they prescribe
the manner and extent of the invitation. Is it the
case that the Board of Trade requires the Trinity
House to furnish them with the specifications in all
instances for illuminating apparatus ? — Yes.
405. Is it by the Board of Trade's prescription that
these specifications are framed and drawn up ? — Xo ;
they do not prescribe the form of the specification.
406. Does the Board of .Trade specify the names of
the firms to whom invitations to tender for such ap-
paratus arc to be sent ? — It has done so ; but the
number of firms who are supposed capable of exe-
cuting the work for lighthouse purposes is very
limited.
407. Can }'ou state generally in what respect the
position in which the Trinity House formerly stood
to the shipping interest has been changed by the
operation of the Merchant Shipping Act ? — T>y re-
moving it from the intermediate position which it
held between the shipping interest and the Govern
meut. Before the passing of the Merchant Shipping
Act no new lights were established nor tolls imposed
without the previous concurrence of the trade imme-
diately interested therein.
408. The Merchant Shipping Act would appear to
necessitate the referring of all questions concerning
sites of lighthouses, buoys, and beacons, their order,
character, and colour, &c., to the Board of Trade,
whilst the Elder Brethren have necessarily had con-
siderable experience in such matters. Have you ob-
served whether any and, if so, what inconvenience
attends this arrangement ? — I do not consider that
the Board of Trade has any direct authority in such
matters, excepting the inspection that is given them
b}' the 393rd section of the Merchant Shipping Act,
but the power of controlling expenditure given by
clauses 422 and 423, is used as a ground of dictation
as to sites, &c. for lighthouses. In most cases, how-
ever, the Board of Trade has ultimately concurred in
the views of the Elder Brethren.
409. Do you consider that some modification of the
interpretation which would now seem to be put upon
clauses 422 and 423 of the Merchant Shipping Act
which you liave just mentioned, would give greater
freedom to the action of the Trinity House, and
enable them to confer a greater amount of benefit
upnu the interests under their charge in the matter
of lights, buoys, and beacons ? — Yes, certainly.
U
■ilO- Could you point out to what extent such Rear-Adm.
modification in the interpretation of those clauses Robert Gordor.
would be beneficial to the interests under your
charge ?— The Trinity House were under the im- 20 Dec. IBS'-
pression that those clauses limited the interference of '
the Board of Trade to the sanction of Estimates, but
in practice the special expenditures throughout the
year have to be discussed, and this minute supervision
is felt to be unnecessary and attended with great
inconvenience. I think that when the estimates for
the year, with the fullest explanatory details that can
be given, have been once submitted to and approved
of by the Board of Trade, there ought to be no further
question on their part, as to the mode in which the
work should be executed ; and the responsibility should
devolve on the Elder Brethren, provided the amount
does not exceed the sum estimated for. On rendering
the accounts I think it would be a great saving ol"
labour if they were transmitted to the Ajdit Office
direct.
411. {Mr. Dunbar.) Do you consider that if
matters relating to accounts alone were under the
Board of Trade, that the action of the Trinity House
in the management of Lights, Buoy.s, and Beacons
would be more free, and more advantageously exer-
cised for the benefit of the interests with which
you are charged ? — Yes ; if you mean that their
powers were restricted to the supervision of the
correctness of our accounts, it would greatly increase
our freedom of action.
412. {Chairman.) The Merchant Shipping Act
prescribes a certain control over the Ballast Board
of Dublin through tlie Trinity House, is that control
fully exercised by the Board of Trade under that
Act ?_Yes.
413. Have you formed any opinion as to the effect
of the working of that part of the Act ? The
arrangement in force previously to the Act, was, I
think, more simple and afibrded sufficient control, as
far as the efficiency of lighting, buoying, and beacon-
age goes, but we had no control over tlieir expendi-
ture, or their financial arrangements. Some irregu-
larities have existed in the working of the machinery
of the Act, but the proceedings are generally con-
ducted in conformity witli it.
414. You mean then that the arrangement in force
previous to the Act was more simple, and atiforded
efilcient control ? — Yes ; I think it did.
415. It has come to the knowledge of this Com-
mission that the Dul)lin Ballast Board "have no efficient
steamer at their command, and that the only steamer
really at their disposal is the "Midge." Are you of
opinion that the Ballast Board ought to have an eflS-
cient steamer at their disposal for general service ? —
I consider that the Ballast Board ought to have a
steamer as efficient as any one possessed by this Cor-
poration.
416. Do you consider that the "Midge" is efficient
for their work? — I do not know the "Midge," but from
what has been reported to me of her size and character
I think she must be wholly inefficient for the work,
supposing her duties to be the same as those which
are executed Ijy the steamers employed by this
Board.
417. You have stated that you think the Ballast
Board ought to have an efficient steamer ; what do
you consider the inconveniences are of their bein"-
without one ? — They must be great to the Ballast
Board from the infrequency of inspections, in
addition to their having no vessel to convey their
stores.
418. This Commission is aware that the Ballast
Board is entirely dependent, for their inspections, on
the Trinity House steamers ; are there no inconve-
niences attending this state of things ? — The incon-
venience to the Trinity House arises from the West-
ern district being deprived for so long a time, of the
services of its ves.sel, at a period of the year wlien she
is required in London to receive the annual supplies
for the District, and to distribute them amongst the
158
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Bear-Adm.
Robert Gordon.
20 Dec. 1S60
various Lijrht Est;il)lis!iments on that station. Last
year one of the London vessels was obliged to supply
stores for the Western District, and vessels were hired
at Milford to ctlect the reliefs of tho differeat light-
vessels on that Station.
419. You hare stated that under the Merchant
Shipping Act a control is exercised, through tho
Trinity House, over the Ballast Board ; is a similar
control exercised, under that Act, over the Scotch
Board ? — Yes; and my rem.arks with respect to the
operation of that control iu Ireland apply generally to
the Scotch Board.
420. {Captain Ryder.) Previously to the passing
of the Merchant Shipping Act. I believe that the 6th
and 7th of William the 4th, iu Sections 42 and 43,
Chapter 79, governed the power of the Scotch and
Irish Lighthouse Boards, to erect Lighthouses ; and I
see, on looking at those clauses, that an appeal from
the Scotch or Irish Board lay to the King iu Council,
in case the Trinity Board, to whom they were obliged
to submit any proposal to erect a lighthouse, disap-
proved of their proposal ; but that, if the Trinity
Board approved of tlieir proposal the erection could
proceed without further interference. Under sec-
tion 40o of the Merchant Shipping Act, do you un-
derstand that after the approval of the Trinity House,
of the proposal to erect a lighthouse made by the
Scotch or Irish Board, the Board of Trade can inter-
fere with that proposal, and that thus an entire change
has t.aken place in the power of the Scotch and Irish
Boards, and the ultimate action of the Trinity House ?
^You are right as to the change of power, because
t is at the discretion of the Board of Trade, whether
they wdl allow the money for tho building upon a
eite which they do not approve.
421. (Mr. Gladstone.) When there are communis
cations between the Northern Commissioners or the
Ballast Board, and the Board of Trade, respecting
either tho erection of new Lighthouses, the placing
or alteration of buoys, or the ivarying of the character
of a Light, do those communications always pass
through" the Trinity House ? — Yes, they do always
now.
422. {Mr. Jhinbnr.) Has there ever been an
instance of the Dublin Board and the Trinit}'^ House
here agreeing to anything, and the Board of Trade
upsetting it ? — No, 1 do not remember any cases at
this moment, excei)t one, which the Board of Trade
considered to be of a local character, and the case of
the gun for the Kish Bank Lightvessel.
423. I think vou stated that they could do that
if they liked ?— Yes, I consider that they luave the
power.
424. Arc the Scotch Lights erected out of tho
General Fund ? — To the best of my knowledge they
arc paid out of tho General Fund.
425. Is there a proposal at the present moment
to erect a light on the Orkney Islands ? — There is
a proposal which has been before us.
426. Would that Liglit be erected out of the
General Funds ? — That would depend entirely upou
whether it couhl be considered a General Coast Light.
427. Who would have the benefit of that light? —
The vessels trading among those islands. We have
not consented to its erection, because we consider
the light to be of so entirely local a character as
to render it doubtful whether any toll which could be
imposed upon the trade that would derive benefit from
it would be at all adequate to its maintenance.
428. Do the Scotch Lighthouses pay their cv.-n
expenses ? — Since the method of keeping accounts
has been regulated by the Board of Trade it has
not been possible to determine the revenue for each
light, but the Keturus called for by the Commis-
sioners for 1852 and 1858 will enable you to form
some opinion. Fi-om a calculation made iu 1859.
founded upon the proportion of receipts of former
years, it would appear that the excess of expenditure
(inclusive of that for new works) over revenue in
Scotland in 1858 was upwards of 32,000/.
429. {Chairman.) The case of the Godrevy Light-
house appears to the Commissioners to be one in
which, after the Trinity House and Board of Trade
had concurred in the change of site to the outer
rock, at or close to the danger, the Board of Trade
refused its .sanction, and the lighthouse was event-
ually erected on a site considerably within the
danger; after making full allowance for the difference
in the expense, if the outer site had been finally agreed
on, but not forgetting that a higher toil might have
been levied in respect of this lighihonse to meet
that expense, are you of opinion that the determi-
nation come to b}' which a lighthouse was jilaced
on Godrevy Island was one that the Trinity House,
having a due regard to all the purposes for which
an expensive light had to be placed in that position,
would ap])rove, supposing their action to be altogether
unfettered, and not limited as it is now by the
operation of the Merchant Shipping Act ? — Had
the question rested solely with the Elder Brethren,
tho light would I think have been placed on thfl
Outer Stone; any apparent indecision respecting
building on the Stones arose fiom an expression of
Admiral Beechey's, who had accompanied the Com-
mittee at the request of the Board of Trade, and
who said, " It is no use your recommending the
Stones, the Board of Trade will never sanction the
expense."
430. {Mr. Dunbar.) After what Admiral Beechey
said, did you still recommend the site of the Stones
for the Lighthouse ? — ^Yes, we did.
431. Did any correspondence take place in con-
sequence of that ? — Yes.
432. And the Board of Trade still adhered to their
determination ? — Yes.
433. {Chairman.) It is probable that the case
of the Light on Rhu Vaal (Sound Islay) has come
under your notice ? — Yes.
434. With regard to Rhu Vaal (Sound Islay)
were the Trinity House and the Board of Trade
agreed as to the site and character of the light,
the height of the tower, and the sailing directions or
notices issued to mariners ? — Yes, we were agreed
as to the character of the light; the height of the
tower did not come under our consideration, and,
as to the sailing directions in tho notice to mariners,
although we do not usually interfere with such part
of the duties of other Boards, on this occasion we
were invited to draw them up, which we did.
435. Did the Trinity House agree with the
suggestion from the Board of Trade that the light
should be made to serve as a clearing mark for the
Keva Rocks which arc in the passage between Islay
and Colonsay ? — The Trinity House disapproved of
opening that channel.
436. As the matter now stands, was the action
of the Board of Trade, in suggesting the particular
application of the light, in your opinion within the
meaning of the Merchant Shipping Act ? — I doubt
whether it was strictly in accordance with the spirit
of the Act.
Adjourned to Saturdny rext at, iialfti,:s( eleven o'clec!
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
159
Saturday, 22d December 1860.
PHESENT :
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie IIamu.tox.
Captain Alfred Piiillii'S Ryder, R.N.
JoHX Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Samuel Robert Graves, Esq.
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton in the Chair.
Rear-AJiuiral Robert Gordon further examined.
Rear-Adm.
Robert Gordon.
I
437. {Chairman.) Although it would appear from
your evidence on the last day of your attendance
here, that the more active and direct service con-
nected with Lights, Buoys, and Beacons was limited
to the Committee for Lights, and in some parts of it
to the Examining Committee, yet I imagine that the
duties on which the whole body of the Elder
Brethren, although belonging to other Committees,
are engaged, are more or less of that description
which \yould add to their qualification for the executive
duties that would devolve upon them when they
come, in usual course, to be members of either the
Light Committee or the Examining Committee. I
may remark that the duties of the several Committees
are stated at page 73 of the Appendix in the return
to the requisition of this Commission, dated the 27th
May 1839, but it might be convenient if you would
repeat those duties here ? — Perhaps I shall best
explain by detailing to the Commissioners tlie duties
of the separate Committees, which are as follows : —
With reference to the Examining Committee, and the
Committee for Lights, I may explain that as a
general rule the Examining Committee, in addition to
their duties as examiners into the competency of
pilots, masters in the navy, and masters of other
vessels in matters of pilotage, are responsible to the
Board for the correctness of marks, bearings, &c.,
inserted in "Notices to Mariners" issued by the
Trinity House. They also consider the advisability
of m.aking alterations in the position of Buoys,
Beacons, or Lightvessels, whether suggested by
members of the Board, or by any other persons. If
their report is approved by the Board, the Light
Committee, as the Executive Committee in all
matters connected with Lights, Buo3"s, and Beacoiii,
are directed to carry the proposed alterations into
effect. In the same way the Pilotage Committee are
responsible for everything connected with pilots and
pilotage duties in all ports in England under the
jurisdiction of the Trinity House. The Wardens
control expenditure, and consider all questions of
importance, alone, or in conjunction with the Com-
mittee interested in the question, as the case may
be. The Supervisors of the Ballast Department
regulate the important duty of raising and supply-
ing ballast to ships, together with the management
of the numerous craft required for that service, in
which nearly 300 men are employed ; and I am
gratified in being able to say that order and good
conduct is the general rule of this rough service,
which has been considerably extended within a few
years, in consequence of a large body of men,
termed "ballast heavers," totally unconnected with
the Corporation, having claimed the protection of,
and voluntarily plac'd themselves under the authority
of the Trinity House. The Pension Committee is
formed by members of other Committees, but their
duties have become light since we have been pro-
hibited from granting pensions to decayed and worn-
out seamen and their families. The duties of all the
Committees are purely executive. The administrative
jurisdiction rests witli the Board, whose sanction is
required to confirm the act of any Committee beyond
its ordinary routine duties.
438. What you have now stated does not go to
show how much of the time of the Elder Brethren,
forming the Light Committee, is employed afloat.
Can you furnish the Commissioners with anything
like an abstract of the number of days that each
member has served afloat, from the 1st of January in
this year to the present time ? — I havft prepared an
abstract, which I wiU hand in.
( TIte same teas handed in as follows] : —
Number of days in which the members of the Light
Committee have been .afloat since the 1st of January
1860.
Captain Close - 65 days Chairman of the Com-
mittee until Trinitj'
Monda}'.
„ Bayly - 96 „ Chairman of the Com-
mittee te this time.
„ Pelly - 14 „
„ Nisbet - 123 „
„ Arrow - 63 „
„ Were - 24 „
439. {Mr. Graves.) It appears then that the mem-
bers of the Light Committee are frequently absent,
employed personally in superintending the removal
and replacing of IJuoys and Lightships, and in the
monthly service of relieving crews ; could not this
service, to a large extent, be entrusted to a nautical
euperintendeut as at Dublin ? — I think not ; one of
the principles acted upon by the Elder Brethren is
not to delegate to a subordinate officer the execution
of any service that they consider it their duty to per-
form themselves ; and it is a great public benefit that
their numbers enable them to do this without neglect-
ing their other duties.
440. {Mr. Gladslone.) Then it appears that,
generally speaking, two or three of the Elder
Brethren proceed to perform the duties alluded to in
the previous question ; do you think that those duties
would not be efficiently discharged by one of tho
Elder Brethren ? — I should say tliat it was always of
advantage to have the judgment of two.
441. {Chairman.) Does the necessity of having
more than one Elder Brother apply to the service of
relieving the crews ? — Yes. Some of the advantages
attending small Committees accompanying the reliefs
of the crews of Lightvessels are the following : —
1. Frequent visiting and inspecting the Lightvessels
and their crews, and thus affording an opportunity for
immediately investigating any complaint or mis-
understanding before any of the parties have left
their vessel. This duty, if entrusted to any officer,
would, on thereceipt of his report, involve the necessity
of sending another vessel with a Committee to in-
vestigate the circumstances, or to bring on shore
the party complained of, thus greatly deranging the
routine of the relief and increasing the expense. —
2nd. Personally observing the efficiency of the
Lights, and the correctness of position, and the con-
dition of Buoys in the channels they pass through, and
placing Wreck Buoys where necessary. These trips
with the Reliefs also aflbrd the Junior Members of the
Examining Committee good opportunities for becom-
ing practically acquainted with the marks for the
various Buoys, and of testing the correctness of the
charts as to their position. It is scarcely possible to
imagine any motive except a sense of duty that could
induce gentlemen to leave their homes and families for
1-0 many days together at all seasons of the year, with-
out the slightest personal advantage accruing from it.
442. {Mr. Gladstone.) It appears that the expenses
of the Committees of Inspection at the various stations
in 1858 amounted to 821/. lis. Id.; of what did those
expenses mainly consist ? — Subsistence at so much
per diem when afloat, and travelling expenses, and
subsistence when proceeding by land, as when we
went to meet the Commissioners at Whitby.
443. {Mr. Graves.) In answer to our requisition
of the loth February 1860, a return has been sent in,
marked E, giving a detailed account of the expen-
diture for salaries and establishment for the yeai-s
U4
160
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFOllE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Kear-Adm. endinff the 31st December 1857 and 18.58, araountiiii;
Uobert Gordon, in the lattei' year to 14,774/.; will you explain wlia»
is meant by '■establishment," and whether the exi)en-
22 Dec. 18G0. jij(„,.(, giyeu i.s limited to matters relating to lights,
'~~~^^ buovs, and beacons ? — The word " Establishment "
in Statement E. includes the Elder Brethren, but
applies to those clerks and ollicials only whose salaries
arc chargeable against Lights, Buoys, and Beacons.
444. Is the gross expenditure of the Establishment,
14,774/., all chargeable to the Mercantile Marine
Fund ? — 14,774/. is not the gross expenditure of the
Trinity House Establishment, but is that poi-tion of
the amount which is chargeable to the Lights, Buoy.s,
and Beacons Account of the Mercantile Marine
Fund.
44o. {Capf. Bi/der.) How is the clerk paid that is
necessary for conducting the affairs of the charities
and almshouses of the Corporation ? — The clerks
who perform the duties connected with the charities
are paid exclusively from the separate income of the
Corporation.
446. Do the charities of the corporation occupy
much of the time of the Elder Brethren in adminis-
tering them ? — The almshouses are under the super-
vision of Elder Brethren (generally residing in the
neighbourhood) who voluntarilj' undertake that duty.
447. Do the Elder Brethren receive any salary
from the charities ? — None whatever.
448. {Mr. Graves.) It appears by the detailed
account of the expenditure for superannuation
allowances in the year ending 1858, under the head
of " official establishment," that several names are
given ; does that term apply solely to lights, buoys,
and beacons, or does it include officials who have
been connected with other duties in the establish-
ment ? — I will furni.sh an answer to that question.
{The same was handed in as folio ivs) : —
Official Establishment. — Supekanxdations.
Original
Appoint-
ment.
Super-
aunuatcu.
Former Ofllee.
Buttcrfield, C. -
1811*
1853
Accountant.
ButterficlcI.J.II.
1837
1856
Collection Accounts,
Examination De-
partment.
Cole, J. W. -
1824
1855
Collector of Light
Duties Office.
Cotton, B.
1812
1855
Collector of Light
Duties.
Duval, P. S. -
1824
1855
Collector of Light
Duties Office.
Hall, J. -
—
1850
Surveyor of 81iipping.
Herliurt, J.
1803
1856
Secretary.
Ritherdon, R. -
1837
1857
Cterk iu various de-
partments,— last in
Pension Depart-
ment.
White, n. A. -
lS2.'i*
1851
Pourth Clerk, (Light
Committee).
Williams, AV. -
1824
1855
Collector of Light
Duties Office.
Hodges, T.
1824*
18.53
Head Messenger.
Parsons W. -
—
1858
Night Watchman.
Jones. Mrs. E.
1843
Widow of Captain
.leukin .Jones, K.N.,
an I'.lder Brother,
drowned while on
duty.
Wejnton.Mrs.JI.
1847
Widow of an Elder
Brother, who diid
from illness hrought
on hy exposure
while on duty.
* These allowances were granted prior to 1st October 185.'!,
and were accepted by the Board of Trade as chargeable on the
Mercantile Marine Fund under sec. XII. of the Act 10 &. 17
Vict., cap. 131.
All the above allowances were made in consideration of
services in the Corporation's Official establishment, compre-
hending more or less of the period prior to 185.'!, and were
accepted by the Board of Trade as within the meaning of the
sections XII. and XIII. of the Act above quoted. Messrs.
Cotton, Williams, and Duval were superannuated when the
duties of the collection at London were transferred from the
Trinity House to the Custom House. Mr. Cole's allowance was
granted shortly after the completion of that nrrangement.
449. At page 89 in the detailed account of the
exjieiiditure in respect of Lighthouses for the year
ending 18.58, there is an item for "office and house
expense.s," amounting to 3,467/. 17s. 5d. ; can you
furnish the Commissioners with a return showing the
details of that expenditure ? — Yes, certainly.
( The same was handed in asfolloics) : —
Office and IIocse Expense,?.-
Detail of Charr/es in 18.58.
£ s. d.
Stationery, ])rintiug, account and
minute books, gazettes, and news-
papers, advertisements, and printing
notices to mariners - . . 1031 7 11
Insurance - - - . - 46 10 0
Uniform clothing to messengers (6) - 43 .5 0
Wages to gatekeeper, night-watchman,
and domestic servants - - 239 13 6
Tithe.s, water rate, and gas - - 203 10 0
Coals, firewood, candles, oil, and coke - 1.58 15 9
Repairs and supplies to the house and
offices 208 16 2
Annual proportion chargeable to the
Mercantile Marine Fund of exiien.-:es
for Ijoard of housekeeper and do-
mestic servants, as agreed on with
Board of Trade - - - 1000 0 0
Proportion of expense of Trinity Mon-
day Anniversary Entertainment to
Her iliijcsty".-^ Ministers, &c. — Annual
amount agreed on iu like manner - 300 0 0
Postage, carriage, and incidental
charges - - - = 199 19 0
Repair and maintenance of Pay Hall for
pensioners - - - - ;^,G 0 1
£3467 17 .5
450. {Captain Bi/der.) How many candidates for
the position of Elder Brethren were there at the last
two elections for Elder Brethren ? — 55 and 59 ; but
I should observe, as on the Last ex.tmination, that a
large proportion of these were ineligible.
451. How do they give notice of their being can-
didates ? — They request one member of the Board to
propose and another to second them, upon which a
ballot is taken.
452. What notice to candidates is given of a va-
cancy previous to election ? — No public notice, as the
occurrence of a vacancy is always immediately known
amongst them.
453. What steps are taken by candidates to bring
their peculiar claims under the notice of the Elder
Brethren ? — They apply personally to the Elder
Brethren, and state their qualifications.
454. Do the honorary Elder Brethren, or persons
unconnected -with the Trinity House, take an interest
in the elections, and canvass for their proteges ?
Certainly not.
455. What are considered (he qualitieations or
services which are recognized its claims for the ap-
jioinlmeut ? — Having attained the rank of commander
iu the navy for at least four years previously, serving
afloat during part of that time, or having been a
master in the merchant service on foreign voy.ages
lor at least four years.
456. {Mr. Graves.) Are the steam and siiiling
vessels owned and employed by the Trinity House
Corporation used for any other purposes' besides
those duties which are performed in connection with
lights ? — They are not employed for any other jnir-
poscs.
457. I ob.serve that the remuneration of the Trinitv
Honsi' engineer was changed from a .system of com-
mission to one of salary, while at the same time (he
mode of remunerating the engineer to the Northern
Commissioners was changed from a salary to a com-
mission ; can you give the Commissioners any
IXQUIRE INTO THE CONDITIOX AND JrANAGE.MENT OP LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BKACONS.
161
reason for this rhange ? — With respect to the En-
gineer to the Corporation of the Trinit}' Honse, tlie
change was adopted to save unpleasant discussion
upon niinnte items, but I can give no answer witli
reference to the Engineer to the Northern Lights.
4o8. Did the change originate with the Trinity
House, or the Board of Trade ? — It was pro])osed by
tlie Trinity House, and concurred in by the Board of
Trade.
4.59. {C/iairiiiri/i.) Will you be good cnongli to
state exactly the course the light or toll dues now
take from the period of their being received until the
portion of them that is intended for the service of
lights comes to the Trinity House ? — The course is
this : The amounts collected are remitted to the
Trinity House by the collectors, daily, weekly, or
nionthh', according to the size of the jiort, and ])aid
into the Bank of England to "The Trinitj- House,
London, Public Account." The collections are then
paid over by the Trinity House to Her Majesty's
Paymaster General, to the account of the Jlercantile
Marine Fund, usually in sums of 10,000/. each. All
sums for disbursements have to be imprest for.
10,000/. is generally asked for at a time. The
applications to the Paymaster General, both to p.ay
in and to draw out, go through the Board of Trade.
460. {Mr. Graves.) Suppose the Trinity House
was relieved of all duties connected with the collec-
tion of light dues, and the duties of the Trinity House
were confined to the simple expenditure for main-
tenance of lights, &c. ; can you give the Commis-
sioners any idea of the saving that would be effected
in the st.aff of the Trinity House by such a change ?
— It would probably enable us to dispense with the
services of five members of our official establishment,
and of one supernumerary, that is to say, of 1 senior
clerk, at a salary from 300/. to 600/. per annum ; 4
junior clerks, 80/. to 200/. per annum ; 1 super-
numerary, 104/. per annum ; the aggregate amount at
the present moment being 974/. per annum. But on
the other hand there would be the set off of super-
annuations upon abolition of office, &c., and so
long as Light Duties are levied their collection
would need to be subjected to an examination as
rigid as that which it receives at our hands, involving
a similar expense in some other department. The
saving with us on account of book.s, forms, receipts,
&c. would be about 200/. per annum.
461. Can you give the Commissioners a general
opinion as to what would be the saving in the item
of collection if the light dues were entirely abolished ?
— I can give no estimate of the saving, excepting as
respects the commission allowed to the collectors of
customs who collect tliose dues afloat, which amounled
in the year ending 30th September 1860 to 1,723/.
Ss. Id.
462. {Chairman.) Then I suppose that the Custom
House authorities are those who would best afford us
that information? — Yes, I should think so.
463. Then your answer refers only to the collec-
tion of dues remitted to the Trinity House, and not
to those collected by the Scotch or Irish Boards ? —
Yes, solely to those collected by the Trinity House.
464. Adverting to the question put at your last
examination relative to the light at Rhu Vaal, and to
the interpretation which would appear to have been
put on clause 422 of the Merchant Shipping Act, as
to the controlling power of the Board of Trade ia
that instance, and seeing that in case of a difference
of opinion between the Scotch Board and the Trinity
Board the Act makes the Beard of Trade the ultimate
referee, are you of opinion that inconvenience to the
public service might arise from the power given to
the Board of Trade by that Act being so interpreted ?
— Yes. It is not desirable that the Board of Trade,
who are the ultimate referees, should interfere until
appealed to ; but courtesy to the naval adviser of
the Board of Trade has induced the Trinity House not
to decline being accompanied by him whilst employed
in preliminary inspections.
I. X
465. I think that in the case of the light at Phludda
tlie suggestion did to some extent originate with the
Board of Trade ? — Yes ; the suggestion originated
with the Board of Trade, but was concurred in iiy
the Trinity House.
466. You are acquainted with the case of the
Skervoile or Iron Rock in the Sound of Jura ; — Yes,
I am.
467. Then in this case the Board of Trade appears to
have refused their sanction to the estimate, after the
Trinity Board and Scotch Board had concurred as
to the site, and after the Board of Trade had ap-
proved both the site and plans as submitted by the
engineer employed by the Scotch Board ; and the
first letter of tlie correspondence sent to us is dated
the 28th of March 1859, and continues till the 30th
June 1859. The lighthouse has not yet been com-
menced. The most prominent feature in the closing
letters being that the Board of Trade assert that
the expense of lighthouse keepers' dwellings in
Ireland is much less than that estimated for the
keepers' houses for the Skervoile Rock, whilst the
Northern Commissioners state that they had ascer-
tained that the expense in Ireland in the light-
houses referred to ia 18«. 9d. per square foot, while
in the buildings proposed for this Scotch lighthouse
it is only 13«. 8c?. Does it seem to you that the
action of tlie Board of Trade in this instance was
within the meaning and intent of the Merchant
Shipping Act ; or, supposing that it was within the
intent of the Act, do you consider such action is
advantageous to the mariner's interests ? — I do not
consider that it was within the spirit of the Act ;
nor do I consider it advantageous to the interests of
the mariner.
468. Do 3'ou know whether the method adopted by
the Scotch Board for drawing up pl.ans and making
estimates, advertising for tenders, &c., is the same
as that which is adopted at the Trinity House ? — I
have no cognizance of their mode of conducting
those duties.
469. By clause 408 of the Merchant Shipping Act
the Trinity House has power to direct the Scotch
Board to proceed to erect a lighthouse in any situa-
tion ; has the Trinity Board the jiower to adopt any
one of the following courses : First, to order the
Scotch Board to obtain estimates from any other than
their own engineer ? — No, they have not.
470. Secondly, to order their own engineer to pro-
ceed to Scotland, and make estimates, and advertise
for tenders, and proceed to erect ? — No.
471. Thirdly, have they any power under the Act
which, if exercised, would prevent such a state of
things as that, after the necessity for a lighthouse has
been admitted, the plans being approved, but the
estimates not being approved, a year may elapse, and
the lighthouse not be commenced, because the Board
of Trade will not allow the specification to be adver-
tised, but insist upon the estimate being first lowered ?
— No ; I do not consider that the Trinity House
has any power.
472. You probably remember the question of tlia
colour of the light to be shown in the Sound of
Islay ? — Yes.
473. In this case the views of the Scotch Commis-
sioners were strongly supported by the Admiralty
Surveyor, C.aptaiu Bedford, an officer of great local
experience ; and one of the points at issue was the
colour to be shown by tlie light at Rhu Vaal, vvliieh
the Scotch Commissioners wished to be red, as accord-
ing with the directions as to colours indicating
danger. The Board of Trade (the Trinity House
concurring) directed the Scotch Commissioners to
break through their rule on this point, and show a
white light as a warning light from danger. Are
you of opinion that this was an exercise of power
within the meaning and intent of the Act ? — As we
do not consider Red to be exclusively a Danger
light, I think that it was an exercise of power within
till.' meanini and intent of the Act.
Rcar-Adm.
liobtrt Ouniun
162
MIXUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COStMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
i?,
JluUrl C
■Urn 4"-*- Then you do not think that an enforced change
ordon. of llic Scotch practice is likely to lead to confusion iu
the mind of the mariner ? — Not to a man of ordiiiary
18G6. i„telli"-ence who paid attention to the directions
issued" on the subject. Similar cases exist at Scilly,
-ivhcre white lights are seen over the numerous dangers
-.lurounding those islands. The light at the Monach
Ishuids will be a Danger light, and not a leading one ;
s,nd if the principle of using red only for warning
lights be admitted, this light should be red, whereas
the Elder Brethren have considered that its warning
rays ought to be extended to the utmost possible
range.
475. Are you at all acquainted with the question
that arose about the character, whether it be local or
general, of the light at Port Askaig and Port Gordon
Coran ? — Yes.
476. They appear to be cases in which there were
differences of opinion as to whether the light should
be considered a local or a general light ; will you
state what was the course adopted by the Elder
Brethren previously to 1854, before they entertained
the project emanating from either of the other two
Boards for erecting a new lighthouse or improving
the old light, showing the nature of the evidence that
guided them to a decision that the application should
bo "ranted or refused ? — Whatever evidence was sub-
mitted by the other Boards was carefuUy considered,
and as a gereral rule the site itself was inspected.
The Trinity House regarded it as within their pro-
vince, in eases where the light would not be of general
utility, to withhold sanction unless the expenses were
defrayed from local revenues. I may, perhaps, be
allowed to quote a letter addressed to the Irish Board,
which had reference to a similar case : — "As respects
" the erection of a lighthouse on Gaily Head, I am
" to refer to a letter from this Board, addressed to
" your predecessor, under date 23rd of August 1850,
" in which the opinion of the Elder Brethren on a
" like proposal was communicated to the Corpora-
" tion. The Elder Brethren have carefully reviewed
" the whole of their proceedings on tnat occasion,
" and also the additional papers now submitted for
" their consideration, and they have instructed me to
" slate that thev do not feel justified in departing from
" the decision communicated in Mr. Herbert's letter
" above adverted to. They are of opinion that, having
" regard to the moderate distance intervening between
" the spheres illuminated respectively on the Head of
" Kinsalc and that on the Fastnett Kock, and also to
" the general outline of the coast between the two,
" there does not api»ar, on the ground of the general
" navigation of passing vessels, to be any necessity
" for a Coast light on Gaily Head. If it be intended
" that the proposed light should be altogether of
" a local character, and be maintained by a local
" rate, the Elder Brethren would of course offer no
" objection to its establishment. But, assuming that the
" proposal contemplates a general coast light, to be
" chargeable on all passing vessels, they feel bound
" to be guided in their opinion by the general prin-
" ciple which they have hitherto observed in such
" cases, and not to agree to increase the burden on
" shipping by the multiplication of lighthouses, unless
" those already existing in the locality are found
" to be so inadetiuate that ordinary skill and prudence
" on the part of mariners are considered insufficient
" for its safe navigation. They are of opinion that
" were they to disregard altogether the question of
" expense, and be guided solely by the consideration
" of what may tend to improve and to render the
" navigation of our coasts more easy to indifferent or
" incompetent navigators, they might be led to mul-
" tiply the number of lighthouses on almost every
" portion of the coasts of the United Kingdom."
477. In the case of the ligiit at Whalsey, with
which you .are prol<ably acquainted, it appears that
the Scotch Board, after suggesting a site for the
lighthouse, changed tlieir views for the reasons
given, and suggested a new site, and that the Trinity
House concurred in both steps ; that the Boiird of
Trade, although distinctly warned of the probable
effect of delay, namely, a claim for damage by the
contractor, delayed their decision so long, that
786/. \5s. had to be paid to the contractor, in addition
to his first contract, for the alleged rise iu prices, &c.
Are you of opinion that the action arising out of
the supposed interpretation of the Merchant Shipping
Act in this instance was beneficial, and that a strict
adherence, to the spirit of the Act had been observed
in all that was done in this case ? — The Trinit)' House
concurred, for the reasons given at page 124, in the
general returns to the Commission, namely, that
sanction having been given by the Elder Brethren
for placing the light on the Outer Bound Skerry, the
Northern Commissioners (at a time of the year when
inspection by the Elder Brethren was impracticable)
represented the total unfitness of that site, and pro-
posed a change to Gruna. Upon this representation,
the Elder Brethren assented to the change; but on
subsequently visiting the spot, they found the Bound
Skerry to be in every way well adapted for building
upon, and they therefore revoked their sanction to
building upon Gruna, and reiterated their preference
for the Outer Skerry. I am, therefore, of opinion
that the power of the Board of Tr.ade was bene-
ficially exercised in requiring a change of site, but
I know nothing of the delay which your question
attributes to them.
478. In the matter of North Unst, the Northern
Commissioners, in proposing a means of communica-
tion with the lighthouse, advocating either the
formation of a good serviceable path, and the placing
of a look-out man on the establishment, or an electric
telegraph, state that the services of a boat being
wanted, they proposed to retain the services of one
experienced boatman, who would engage others when
they were wanted. The Board of Trade reply
that the Scotch Commissioners may have the wire if
they will give up the experienced boatman ; and this
not being acceded to by the Scotch Commissioners,
they refuse to allow the use of the path, and the
Scotch Board decline the responsibility as to any
accidents that may occur. Do you, with your ex-
perience in matters connected with lighthouses, think
that there is any, and, if any, what connection
between the two matters, namely, the establishing of
an electric wire which has been approved of, the ex-
pense of which has been sactioned by the Board of
Trade, and the retention of the services of an ex-
perienced boatman, the necessity of which is urgently
maintained by the Scotch Commissioners, who are
responsible for the efficient maintenance of a safe
communication with and tr.*insit to the lighthouse ?—
The circumstances adverted to have not in any war
come under the cognizance of the Trinity House, and
I should therefore decline giving an opinion on them.
479. Are you acquainted with the circumstances
under which the site on which the light at North
Unst is built was selected ? — Yes. An application
was received from the Admiralty during the Kussian
war, for the immediate placing of lights in that
locality.
480. Are you aware that there had lieen any
doubts or question as to the site of the light on North
Unbt before the Elder Brethren visited it ? — Some
correspondence took place. The Northern Commis-
sioners preferred Lambaness, as they did not consider
it practicable to erect and maintain a Lighthouse on
the Muckle Flugga.
481. Can you say whether the alteration in the
site of the temporary lighthouse at North. Unst
was first proposed by the Trinitj- House, or by the
Board of Trade, or by some other authority ? — The
question of Site was decided by us on visiting the
localities. Admiral Beechey accompanied us on our
inspection.
482. As regards the light on Ilolborn Head, in this
case there is a correspondence extending i'rom the
24th of December 1856 to the 9th of February 1860,
and probably down to the present time, regarding a
right of way from Scrabster Harbour to the proposed
site of the lighthouse on the grounds of a Mr. Sinclair.
The proposed road is to pass through Mr. Sinclair's
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
163
grounds, and he offers to make no charge for the
land to bo occupied by the road, provided it is a
load of good construction, available for carti?, &c. and
he offers, in case he ever makes any use of it, to
undertake the expense of maintenance as often as
approved of the Scotch Commissioners. But the
Board of Trade appear to expect Mr. Sinclair to give
them the land over which the road is to- pass for
nothing. The lighthouse, urgently required and
pressed for, is delayed for four years, while the Board
of Trade is bargaining about the road. Has the
operation of the Mercliaiit Shipping Act, as it appears
to be put in force, in this instance, been, in your
opinion, a beneficial operation as regards trade, and
the interests of the mariner ? — I know nothing of the
circumstances, and am therefore unable to answer
your question.
483. In the case of the light at the Butt of Lewis,
the Scotch Commissioners propose that the light
should be " first order, flashing white," in order to
give the greatest range possible. The Board of
Trade disapprove, on the score of the expense for the
apparatus (600/. to 700/. extra). The Elder Brethren
select a site for another lighthouse, namely, that on
Monach Islands, 70 miles from the Butt of Lewis,
which is to be " flashing white," and they desire that
the Butt of Lewis be a fixed light. The Scotch
Commissioners represent that the illuminating of the
Butt of Lewis is part of their great scheme ; and that
they propose to hnve a fixed light at Stour Head ;
and that, apart from the value of the light on
the Butt of Lewis becoming diminished in the ratio
of one to three, their plan of lighting the channels
will be seriously injured, and they will be prevented
from giving to vStour Head the distinctive and in-
expensive character of being fixed. But they are
finally overruled. What is your opinion of the work-
ing of the Merchant Shipping Act as put into opera-
Adjourned till Thursday
tiou in this case ? — The arrangements finally deter- Rear-Ad
mined on for the Monach and the Butt of Lewis are j}.jbert Gordon.
those deemed by the Elder Brethren to be the most
expedient. The dangers surrounding the Monach -- Dec. isco.
group being far greater than those in the neighbour-
hood of the Butt of Lewis, the most efficient descrip-
tion of warning light was considered the fittest for the
locality. No evil can accrue to vessels seeing the
light at the Butt of Lewis within the ordinary lange
of a fixed light ; and although the distance is consider-
able between that light and the Monach, it is important
that their respective characters should be so distinctive
that the mariner making the land from along over-sea
voyage should not, by any possibility, mistake them.
The necessity for these important lights wiU probably
involve an arrangement different from that contem-
plated, at Stour Head, which is comparatively of midcr
consideration. In coming to this determination the
Elder Brethren took a practical view of the subject,
which they think would have been concurred in by
any seaman who had witnessed the low and dangerous
coasts of the Monach Islands, strewed with wrecks ;
and in doing this, I consider that the Trinity House
have acted consistentl_y with the spirit of the Act.
484. You arc aware that the French authorities
have a geuei al system of arranging the character of
their lights, and the Scotch Commissioners would
seem to wish to have some such system. Would an
alteration in the character of the light at the Butt of
Lewis disturb such a system, or is the question of a
system one that has been considered ? — The liutt of
Lewis has never been illuminated. If we were com-
mencing de novo the entire system of the illumination
of our coasts, it is probable that alterations in the
present character of our lights would be considered ;
but the practice is to place a light of the most
distinctive and efficient character according to the
position in which it is required.
j'ext, at Twelve o'clock.
Thursday 27tli December 1860.
TRESENT :
Eear-Admiral William Alex.ixder Baillie Hamilton.
•John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Eear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hamilton in the Chair«
Eear-Admiral Robert Gordon further examined.
455. {Chairman.) Considering the great advance
in engineering skill and science, and the cases in
which the greatest (apparent) natural difficulties have
been overcome, as instanced in the erection of such
lighthouses as the SeiUy Bishop and the Smalls, &c.,
have the Elder Brethren come to any conclusion as
to the general expediency of placing lighthouses on
extreme points of danger, where possible ? — Yes, as
a general principle, but cases may arise in which the
advantage to be derived from placing a light on the
very extreme point of danger may not be sufficient
to warrant a very large increase of expenditure.
456. The Commissioners are under the impression
that the Ballast Board recommended that a fog signal
gun should be placed on board the Kish Lightvessel,
but that the Board of Trade refused its sanction on
the ground of its being possibly mistaken for the gun
at the South Stack. Can you saj" from memory
whether this case was referred by the Board of Trade
to the Trinity House for its opinion, and whether the
Elder Brethren coincided in the grounds of the
objection? — The case was refeiTed by the Irish
Board to the Trinity House, who sanctioned the gun.
487. Would it not have been according to usage
and practice if the opinion of the Trinity House had
been taken before the Board of Trade vetoed the re-
commendation of the Ballast Board ? — The Board of
Trade vetoed the proposition after we had concurred
in it.
488. With respect to Buoyage, can you inform the
Commissioners whether the expense of buoyage is
an increasing item ? — Yes, because buoj's of improved
construction and larger size are constantly being
introduced.
489. Can j-ou form any opinion as to the average
annual increase of that item in the last five years ? —
It is difficult to give even an approximate average,
of any value, because the annual expense varies con-
siderably. Beacons are included with Buoys in the
calculations, therefore the average increase in the
item of Buoys alone is not readily determined. No
regular annular supply of Buoys is obtained, but as
the stock of any particular description is diminished
it is replenished. In the last five years, new Buoys
were furnished, as will appear in this paper.
The foUoicing j'aper was handed in : —
"Wooden Buoys.
8 feet
7 feet
6 feet
4 feet
Wreck Buoys
Convex Base, (Poul-
ter's). 8 feet
do. 9 feet
Flat-bottom iron
Buoys (Lenox's),
8 feet
r One, 6 feet
1855< spiral iron
L buoy.
1S56.
5
0
0
0
1853.
21
8
3
0
12
1
0
1
1859.
19
20
0
16
0
I
13
0
r One Patent
,„.,,) wooden Buoy,
I with iron
V. partition.
490. I believe that the Trinity House has buoys oflf
the Owers, ofi" Christ Church "Ledge, and off the
Manacles; can you inform the Commissioners from
what depot those Buoys are supi>lied or replaced,
where they are repaired, and from what establish-
X2
164
iirXUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN' BEFORE THE CO^nriSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
liearAJm. aient or slalion they are watched ? — The Buoys for
SoOcrt Gordon, the Owers and Clirist Church Ledge are rephiced
from the store at East Cowes, and they are repaired
27 Dec. iSfiO. jjj Cowes. That for tlie IManaclcs "is repaired at
Plymouth ; they are all supplied in the first instance
from Blaokwall.
491. Then, if any considerable number of Buoys
in the neighbourhood of East Cowes depot were
added to the Trinity House charge, I conclude that
they would have to he also supplied from the esta-
blishment at Blackwall in the first iustance ? — Yes.
492. Would the present establishment at Blackwall
admit of its furnishing a greater number of buoys
than it does at present with the number of workmen
there employed ? — The arrangements are sufficient,
but it would be necessary to employ additional laViour.
493. Have flie Elder Brethren of the Trinity
House come to an}^ conclusion as to which is the
better form and character, or in other words, the
best buoy for exposed situations, where it is necessary
to give the utmost possible warning to mariners, as
in the case of the approaches to the Goodwin Sands,
&c. ? — In answer to Question 6 in the Buoy and
Beacon Returns, it has been stated that for exposed
channels and coasts, the Hollow Bottom Buoys,
Herbert's Patent, or the large Egg Bottom Buoys, as
at the back of the Goodwin, are the most approved.
494. I believe that a still larger buoy than any of
those now floating at the back of the Goodwin has
been proposed and even tried by the Trinitj- House,
but is now discontinued. Can you inform the Com-
missioners of the reasons why no larger buoy than
the largest now in use has been sanctioned ? — Upon
the' first introduction of monster buoys, the iron
ballasted buoys were the only ones known, but when
improvements took place in the construction of buoys
by using water ballast and hollow bottom buoys,
they were found to bo so superior to any other that
they have been finally adopted, and although not quite
PC larfc, they are er|ually conspicuous, and far more
manageable.
495. I suppose that a very considerable item in the
expense of buoyage would be chargeable to the
replacing of buoys consequent on their breaking
adrift, or being damaged ? — The number of buoys
that break adrift, where anchored upon fair holding
ground, is very few. Casualties arise from a rocky
bottom, and accidents from vessels running foul of
them.
496. Do you think that you have arrived at a
perfect mode of securing buoys ? — Yes, I think wo
have, with the exception I have alluded to in the
case of a rocky bottom.
497. I suppose that you will be of opinion that on
a coast like ours, approachable in many instances by
narrow and dangerous channels, and to which such
a vast amount of merchant shipping resort, the
buoyage system is scarcely inferior in importance to
0 perfect system of lights ? — In many positions it is
superior, because Buoys can be placed where Lights
cannot, as at the back of the Goodwin Sands, and we
already find that the multiplication of Lights is so
great, that it is extremely diflicult to give them a
distinguishing and discriminating character.
498. {Mr. Gladstone.) In your return to our
Circular No. 5, you stated, that in buoying any single
channels in future, the rule, where there are no special
circumstances to require its modification, will be to
place buoys of a single colour, either black or red,
on the starboard side, on entering from the sea, and
party coloured buoys, either black and white, or red
and v.-liite, on the port-hand, the outermost buoy on
either hand being a beacon buoy if necessary,
middle dangers being marked by white buoys wiih
black beacons of various distinctive shapes. Have
you carried out your plan in anj' instance ? — We havo
not had occasion to fresh buoy any channel ourselves,
but we have recommended tho adoption of the system
referred to fur Lough Swilly.
499. {Chairman.) Are you aware whether tliat
rocommendalion has been carried out? — I cannot
siiy we liave no information.
oOO. But you are probably aware of the correspon-
dence between the Ballast Board, the Board of Trade,
and the Trinity House on the subject of colouring
the buoys in Lough vSwilly, and if so, you will be
awaro that the Board of Trade there prescribe a
mode of colouring to be adopted as regards those
buoys ? — Yes. I should not say that the Board of
Trady prescribed the mode, although the suggestion
in this particular instance emanated from them.
oOL Do you consider that the meaning and inten-
tion of the ilerchant Shipping Act has been rightly
interpreted in the action taken in this case ? — I do
not consider that the question of the colour of Buoys
belongs to the Board of Trade under the Act.
502. {Mr. Gladstone.) Do you consider it would
be desirable if the uniform system now approved by
you were adopted throughout the channels of the
United Kingdom ? — I think there are many situations
in which the principle might be adojited without
danger ; but where the channels are intricate, or there
is more than one channel, it is always a matter re-
quiring great consideration before the colours of
IJuoys of long established character are altered.
o03. You are aware that the Scotch system is
different from that proposed by you, namely, red on
the starboard and black on the port in entering, and
that many of the ports and channels under tho
Ballast Board are buoyed on a system exactly the
reverse of the Scotch, namely, red on the port and
black on the starboard. What is your opinion of the
fact that there are those two systems in use, in addi-
tion to the one proposed by you, and those adopted
by local authorities ? — I think that it is very objec-
tionable, and that the system of having buoys of one
colour u])on one hand and checkered on the other is
the best for single channels, as we have approved of
for Lough Swilly.
504. Do you consider that you have any power to
insist on the Irish or Scotch Board varying the
colour or character of the buoys ? — We may have
the power, but have confiued our interference to re-
commendations.
505. Do you consider that you have any such
power over local authorities ? —No case that I re-
member has arisen for calling upon us to exercise
authority. With reference to local lights our authority
is more defined, and we have exercised it on some
occasions.
506. Bi^ by Sections 394 and 403 of the Merchant
Shipping Act, you can insist on the Scotch or Irish
Boards or the local authorities placing a buoy or
varying the colour or character of a light. Do you
know why the same power has not been given you
to insist on a variation in the colour and character
of a buoy ? — I do not know.
507. Then am I to understand, however important
you may consider it to be, that there should be uni-
formity in the buoyage of the channels throughout
the United Kiiigdom, no means are provided by the
Merchant Shipping Act for ensuring this uniformity ?
— We have never intcrlered with the detail of
management of the duties of the Irish or Scotch
Boards, excejiticg in special cases which have been
referred to us, and should any special case arise,
■we should undoubtedly express our opinion upon it.
508. Do you contemplate changing the buoyage
of any channels in conformity with your ])resent
system ? — Not in any channel under our jurisdiction
in its entire system.
509. Why do you not contemplate changing the
existing buoyage of channels ? — Because we consider
that an entire change of system would be attended
with far greater danger to navigators than the con-
tinuance of the well-known and long established
character of the Buoys of any channel.
510. {Chairman.) You are aware that there was
iFome corres]iondence between the Trinity House and
the Board of Trade on the subject of the Dartmouth
Beacon. I believe the Board of Trade did not
apjuove of the Trinity House Engineer's design, and
tliev required the substitution of one less costly ? —
Yes, but the question of placing a Beacon has not been
IKQtriEE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
16,5
reverted to by the Trade of the Port who would be
called upiin to pay toll for it.
511. Til I'll in the above case, no beacon has been
placed ? — No, it has not been placed.
512. Are yon aware that b)' any reduction in the
estimate for a light, a buoy, or a beacon, a less
suilicient article has been placed than would have
boon the ease if the ori.sinal estimate had been
adhered to ? — In the case of the Anquette Beacon at
Jersey a reduction in the expense and consequent
size of the Beacon may to a certain extent have
affected its efficiency, but it would be to a very limited
extent.
513. I believe that the Board of Trade is in the
habit of applyinn; to the Trinity House to procure
tenders for the Illuminating apparatus for lighthouses
in the colonies ? — Yes, they have done so.
514. Do you remember what assistance the Board
of Trade asked of the Trinity House in the matter
of the Great Basses Lighthouse ? — I have no re-
collection of any correspondence on the subject.
515. {Mr. Gladstone.) Has the Trinity House ever
exercised the power given it over local lights, buoys,
and beacons, by the Merchant Shipping Act, Section
394 ? — A case occurred recently, in which a Local
Authority wished to discontinue a Light on the ground
that they had not funds for maintaining it, but the
Trinity House would not sanction its being dis-
continued.
516. In the visits of the Commissioners they have
found that some of the local lights are in a very bad
and inefficient condition; have you ever enforced any
improvement of such a light ? — No, v^e have not
considered the mode of maintenance of Local Lights
to be under our jurisdiction.
517. Then, however faulty a Local Light may be, do
you imagine that 3^ou have no control over it what-
ever ? — As we have no control whatever over local
funds, we do not deem it proper to control their ex-
penditure. Wo consider Local Lights to be regulated
by the local authorities from their own funds.
518. {Chairman.) But setting aside the question
of your authority, you will probably be of opinion
that it is scarcely to be called a local question, where, as
in the case of Aberystwith in the month of Novem-
ber of last year, several vessels were wrecked, and a
considerable loss of life occasioned from the deficiency
and bad management of the local light, when it is
very possible that some of those vessels might have
been foreigners, and that neither the property nor the
lives lost could be said to be of local interest ? — The
result was undoubtedly general in its importance, and
so far not a question of local interest.
519. (Mr. Gladstone.) Have 3-ou any special means
of ascertaining the condition of lights, buoys, and
beacons under the management of local authorities ?
—We do not interfere with local authorities unless
we are applied to by them.
520. Then however bad a local light may be, you
do not oflicially become acquainted with the fact ? —
No, not officially.
521. (Chairman.') Then supposing that a light
under the management of either of the two otner
general authorities were commonly complained of as
decective, is there any machinery by which you would
necessarily become ofiicilly acquainted with such
fact any more than in a case of a local light ? — I
think a defect in any General Light, I mean under
either of the different boards, would very soon be
represented to us, but I consider those Lights in a
very different position from Local Lights.
522. But would that be the case under any present
statutory enactment or rule of oflice ? — Any defect of
a Coast Light under cither of the other authorities
would be represented by them to us with any pro-
position for its improvement.
523. Has any case ever occurred in which a light
under either of the Scotch or L-ish Boards has been
so complained of or represented to the Trinity House ?
— Cases have been submitted to us by the other
Boards for the improvement of coast lights, which
have been concurred in, I think, invariably.
27J)uc. 1860.
524. Then has any complaint ever been made to Sear-Adm,
you from those who are interested in the liglits Hobcrt Gordon.
that is, those who use them — of a faulty light,"and a
liglit faulty from bad management, &c., belonging
eitiier to the Scotch or Irish Board ?— I have no
recollection of a single complaint of Lights belonging
to either of the Boards.
525. By Clause 392 of the Merchant Shipping
Act, the Trinity Board has power at all times to
enter any of the Scotch or Irish Lighthouses ; has that
power in any case been exercised ? — "Very frequently.
526. Has the exercise of that power been in con-
sequence of any representation as to deficiency, or any
remarks of your own as to deficiency or imperfection ?
— No, but as taking the opportunity of being in the
locality to visit and compare dilFerent Lights, and
they are visited whenever an opportunity occurs.
527. You say that these lights are visited whenever
opportunities occur ; does the reply to Question 8,
Circular 1, at Page 79, and those which follow include
all the inspections of those lights which took place in
those two years ? — Yes, they do, but we do not con-
sider that we are called upon to visit the Scotch and
Irish Lights unless there may be some special reason
for doing so.
528. {3/r. GladstoJie.) Has a local lighthouse, hnoj,
or beacon ever been surrendered to the Trinity House
under the authority given in the Merchant Shipi)iug
Act by Section 413 ?— No ; but cases have arisen in
which application has been made to the Trinity
House to taktf Local Lights under their management
as at Dartmouth and Carnarvon.
529. Has this been carried out in either of those
cases? — No; because there did not appear to be
funds sufficient for their maintenance.
530. Am I right in believing that the Trinity House
gave certain buoys to the town of Dartmouth ? — Yes,
they did.
53 L Are you aware whether they have maintained
those buoys ? — They are maintained, but we have
represented that they were not maintained in a proper
condition.
532. Su]5posing you hear, as we have heard with
respect to Dartmouth, that a buoy is off its station,
do you consider that you have no power to compel the
local authorities to replace it? — Ouly by representation.
We should represent to the authority that such an
accident had taken place, and call their attention to
it in order that it might be replaced.
533. But supposing that request were disregarded,
what step would then be taken ? — I consider that our
authority would cease then, unless by application to
Her Majesty in Council for the transference to us,
which would involve the imposition of an adequate
toll for maintenance.
534. ( Chairman.) T believe that Mr. James Walker
is the engineer employed by the Trinity House for
lighthouse purposes. Has he any particular title,
such as lighthouse engineer, or any other ? — He is
termed Engineer in Chief to the Trinity House.
535. Could you give the Commissioners an outline
of the duties that Mr. Walker has to perform ? To
make preliminary surveys and reports where any
worKS such as Lighthouses and dv.'ellings, or Beacons
or storehouses are proposed — to prepare preliminary
designs and approximate estimates of cost — to report
on alterations that may be proposed — to prepare
detailed and working drawings, with specifications,
conditions, &c., with copy for contractors — to super-
intend the execution of the work — to report the
progress of each work weekly, or as required
to grant certificates — and finally to adjust accounts
and differences where the works ara under con-
tract— to make purchases and contracts for materials
— to engage workmen — arrange wages, and examine
and certify bills. In some cases, as the Needles
and the Smalls, where the tenders from con-
tractors have exceeded the Engineer's estimates, the
Elder Brethren have committed the work to Mr.
Walker, to make contracts for the materials, and to
have the works executed by workmen, paid by the
Corporation. lu these cases the total cost has been
X3
166
MINUTKS OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Rear Adm. l^^s than the lowe.-^t tender n-coived. 1 may siiltl
Rt'it.t Gordon, that Mr. Walker has to find his own clerks and office
assistants, and that tlie labour wliich devolves upon
27 Dec. 18G0. i\,Qm must be very considerable.
— — 53(3. Then these duties, which you have just de-
tailed as belonging to Mr. Walker, relate specially .and
exclusively to works connected with building? — Yes,
but I should have added that Mr. Walker has also
lately been consulted on some matters, such as lanterns
for foreign stations, the Electro Magnetic liglit, jmr-
chase.s of land, armature of apparatus, revolving
machinery, &c. ; he also prepares plans and specifica-
tions for Lighting Apparatus.
537. He has nothing do do then with the examina-
tion of lighthouse apparatus ? — Not the illuminating
apparatus.
538. It would appear that in Scotland there is an
officer entitled superintendent of light keepers, whoso
duty it is to go round to the several lighthouses in
Scotland, and to examine the lightkeepers as to their
entire proficiency in all their duties, and who has to
report periodically to the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses. There is also in the Scotch establish-
ment a " foreman of light-room repairs," who in like
manner periodically visits all the lighthouses, to see
that the apparatus, machinery, &c. are in perfect
order, in order that he may perform any necessary
repairs on the spot. Has the Trinity House any
such officer ? — No ; this duty is performed under the
frequent supervisiou of Committees of the Elder
Brethren. An establishment was formed, at Blackwall,
for the purpose of effecting re])airs to lamps, &c., but
was ibund to be more expensive and less efficient
than when performed by the lamp manufacturer
employed by the Corporation.
539. Then am I to understand that the lamp
manufacturer ii.ays any periodical visits such as are
performed by the superinteudeut of lightkeepers and
the foreman of lightroom repairs in Scotland ? — No,
he acts only under orders received from the Board.
540. I believe that the per-centage formerly
allowed to collectors of customs for calculating
vessels' expenses ibr light duties has been abolished ;
can you say when that allowance was withdrawn ? —
No per-centage has been allowed by the Board of
Trade where an appointment or transfer to another
port has taken place subsequently to the 29th of
April, 1854, excepting to the ports of Cowes, Deal,
Falmouth, Milford, and Weymouth, where a commis-
sion is still allowed in consideration of the collection
heiug m.ade partially afloat.
541. Are you aware of any complaints having been
made as to difficulties in obtaining the accustomed
calculations since the allowance was abolished ? —
There have been remonstrances froiu various collectors
as to the hardship of having to do this work without
remuneration, and of being held responsible for
errors when they have no benefit of commission, nor
in some cases, tlio aid of a clerk, and, perform more
laborious duties than their predecessors did.
542. It must occasionally occur that demands are
made upon you for a.ssistance in cases of urgent
personal distress or disaster, have you any fund set
apart and included in the estimate submitted to the
Board of Trade, to enable you to meet such cases on
the moment ? — To meet those cases, 100/. per annum
has, upon the representation of the Elder Brethren,
liecn sanctioned in the annual estimates, to be applied
at our discretion (without ])reviously representing the
circumstances to the Board of Trade) in payment of
»ny allowances for medical and other expenses
caused by the illness of lightkeepers, seamen, &c. ; but
it is 1o be confined to cases where the need for
medical attendance is caused by circumstances specially
connected with the service.
543. 1 believe in the consideration you have had to
give to the question of establishing an Electric Light,
the risk to be incurred by erecting the necess.ary
uiachiuery within the lighthouse itself has been an
important one ? — Yes, it has.
544. Has that been from any apprehension as to
the explosion of the boiler ? — The Lighthouse not
being adequate for the space required for the
machinery is one cause, and, secondly, from the
unwillingness to incur any risk from accident that
might happen to the boiler or machinery within the
building.
545. Can you state what is the horse power that
Mr. Holmes reckons to be necessary for working the
machinery ? — I think it is two engines of three horse
power.
546. I suppose it would be scarcely possible to
burst the boiler of an engine of three horse power ? —
I am not prepared to answer that question.
547. In the selection of Dungeness as the site for
the a])proaching exhibition of that light, I suppose
that the additional expense that would be incurred
for carriage was fully taken into consideration ?—
Yes, all this was fully considered. Circumstances,
however, have arisen which render it possible that
the selection of that site may not be carried into efft'ct.
548. I would ask you, supposing all things equal,
and that the Electric Light were equally applicable to
a revolving as to a fixed Light, whether such a site as
the Start, which is one of the salient points of our
coast, and an imjiortant and favourite landfall, would
be by you considered as a more eligible position for
the exhibition of the light than Dungeness ? — As a
position there cau bo no doubt that it would be
superior, but the difficulty, that has hitherto arisen is,
that with our present knowledge of the electric light
some doubt exists as to whether it is so well adapted
for a revolving as for a fixed light ; but this will
probably be tested.
549. {Mr. Gladstone.) As a general principle,
would you adopt the dioptric system for the illumi-
nation of a new lighthouse ? — As a general principle,
I should say yes, but it would depend very much
upon the arc to be illuminated.
550. Would it depend at all upon whether it was a
fixed or a revolving light ? — A fixed coast Light
would be dioptric, but I am by no means satisfied
that for a revolving light the dioptiic is the best.
551. You have, I know, lately substituted the
dio))tric for the catojitric apparatus in one or two
lighthouses ; has the Board of Trade made any
objection to the expense ? — None, beyond their vigil-
ance as to our contrat'ts.
552. Were the reflectors worn out ? — They have
been defective. Wherever we have found it necessary
to incur considerable expense for repairs we have
established the dioptric system.
553. {Chairman.) What is the class of men
generally selected by the Elder Brethren to form
part of the crew of a ligatshij) ? — Young men who
have been at sea.
554. Are any particular i[ualifications or certificates
required of them ? — Certificates of age and he.-dth,
and of conduct and character as seamen in the ships
in which they have served.
555. It is immaterial, I conclude, whether llicy
have served in men-of-war or in meichantmen ?—
Quite so ; we have many from both the navy :ind
merchant service.
556. Have you any fixed limit with regard to the
age of those who are entered for the Lightship service r
— No man is admitted above the age of 28.
557. Do you superannuate them at any particular
age ? — No, there is no specified age ; but if a man is
found to lie unable to perlbrni his duties, he is
superannuated.
558. You have said that they arc not admitted
after the age of 28. Take the case of a seaman from
a man-of-war who would become entitled to his
retiring pension, and say a full retiring pension,
which in these days he may arrive at between the
iiges of 35 and 40, and supposing him, in tiddition to
his good character, to be a healthy man, you would
still think that the rule had better be adhered to,
which on the one hand would keep such a man out of
the service, and on the other obliges you to enter a
com])aratively young man ? — Yes, I consider it should
be adhered to, because it would not be just to pension
a man from the Mercantile Marine Fund who had
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
167
uot passed the prime of his life in a service paid from lamp room ? — Meu are selected, accordiug to their
that fund. seniority, who are desirous of becoming lamp trimmers
oo9. Are there any regulations iu force wliic'h in tlie Lightvessels, and they are instructed in the
provide for eacli man composing the crew of a light- necessary duties
Rear-Arlm.
Robert Gwthi.
ship being instructed in the art of trimming lamps,
cleaning reflectors, &c. ? — No, not the crew
generally.
560. Then by what process is a selection made of
those men who have the charge of the lamps and
Adjourned
561. Do these men receive a higher salary than
the rest of the crew ?— Yes, a slight increase ; and
the senior seaman on board a Lightvessel applies, if
he wishes, for that appointment.
Wednesday, 2nd January 1861.
Eear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hajiilton, R.N.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Rear-Admiral TVilllasc Alexander Baillie Hajiilton iu the Chair.
William Henry Cutler, Esq., and Professor Frederick Hale Holmes, examined.
565. {Chairman to Jlr. Cutler.) I believe you are
employed professionally by the proprietors of the
Electric Light ? — Yes.
566. Then 3'ou can inform the Commissioners pro-
liably how matters stand financially respecting the
light ? — A very large outlay has been incurred by
the proprietors with a view to the development of
the light, and this outlay is constantly being increased,
and no return has been received by the proprietors,
except a few hundred pounds from the Trinity House
for the use of the apparatus at the South Foreland,
during some experiments that were made at that
lighthouse.
567. Is this constant increase that you have men-
tioned consequent upon any delay that you can attri-
bute to any of the authorities, or is it one that would
naturally follow in the course of the proper develop-
ment of the electric light ? — Considering the very
lung time during which this matter has occupied the
attention of the Trinity House, I am inclined to think
that a very considerable delay, over and above what
would have taken place had I been dealing with ordi-
nary customers, has occurred, and I consider that it
is not a delay consequent upon the proper develop-
ment of the electric light.
568. Can you give the Commissioners any general
statement as to the amount that has been expended
in the bringing out of this electric light by the pre-
sent proprietors ? — I believe a sum of not less than
from 23,000/. to 25,000/.
569. Can you state at about what date any com-
munications on the subject of the electric light with
the Trinity House first commenced ? — I believe it
was in the year 1856.
570. Can you state what is now doing by the
Trinity House with the electric light ? — The plans
and specifications have, at the request of the Trinity
House, been submitted to Mr. Walker, their engineer,
with a view to the erection of the apparatus, and the
exhibition of the light at Dungeness lighthouse.
571. Do you know whether any orders have been
given to the proprietors for proceeding to set up the
light at Dungeness lighthouse ? - Several months ago,
after tlie experiments at the South Foreland had
ceased, and which experiments were considered per-
fectlj- satisfactory, we were requested to send to the
Trinity House estimates and specifications for erect-
ing the light at Dungeness ; we subsequently sub-
mitted drawings, specifications, and estimates of the
terms, and, so lar as I know, they were agreed to.
Those plans, specifications, and estimates were subse-
quently submitted to Mr. Walker, the engineer of the
Tiiuity House, and he required various alterations
and additions to be made, principally I believe owing
to the peculiarity of the Dungeness lighthouse, which
is very ill adapted for the reception of our appara-
tus on its top, in consequence of an accident by liglit-
ning which took place some years ago. These altera-
X
W. H. Cutler.
Ksq.
Prof. F. II.
Holmes,
tions and additions of Mr. Walker rendered it
necessary for us to alter our estimate and suecifica-
tion, and considerably increase the sum for which we
originally offered to adapt the lighthouse to our light.
The fresh estimate has not yet been agreed to by the 2 Jan. isci
Trinity House.
572. You have stated that the Dungeness Light-
house was ill adapted for the electric light in con-
sequence of the condition of the tower, which had
been damaged by lightning ; setting aside the con-
dition of the tower, do you know whether Dungeness
is a site that the proprietors of the light would
have considered a desirable one, in all respects, for
the exhibition of the electric light ? — Certainly not;
Dungeness would not have been the lighthouse
selected by the proprietors, inasmuch as its range
is only 10 miles and a fifth ; nor can it be called a
leading light, as other lights are visible at the
same time ; nor is it on a salient point ; nor can
that part be considered a useful landfalL The pro-
prietors would have rather chosen an important
lighthouse, such as the Start, which is a projecting
point of the Channel, where the light can be seen
for about 19 miles.
573. You have mentioned the Start as a desirable
point for the exhibition of the electric light ; you
are probably aware that, at the Start, the light is
a revolving light, and it has been stated to the Com-
mission that the electric light is not, as yet, adapted
for a revolving light ? — Mr. Holmes will be better
able to give the Commissioners information upon
that subject.
574. {To Professor Holmes.) How would you
describe yourself as connected with the electric
light ? — That I am the discoverer of the fact that
tlie magneto-electric machine can produce the so-
called electric light ; that is, a current of electricity
passing between separated carbon points.
575. It has been stated to this Commission that the
magneto-electric light is uot adapted for a revolving
light, and that that constitutes an objection to its
being exhibited at the Start Lighthouse. Do you
ditfer from that statement which has been made to
the Commission? — Certainly; and for this simple
reason, if a flashing Fresuel lens is employed, that, as
it is admitted that the magneto-electric light can be
placed in a focus of an ordinary stationary lens,
there can be no possible reason given why there is
not also the same focus for it in a flashing lens.
576. Mr. Campbell wishes you to be asked whether,
when you put alight in the chief focus of a lens either
fixed or revolving, you would provide any means of
causing a divergence in the beam greater than that
which would result from the size of the light, which
is taken to be about the eighth of an inch ? — Any
amount of desired divergence can be given to a light
in constructing the lens ; but Messrs. Chance have
given me their opinion to the efl'ect that without any
4
168
MIXrTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEX EEFORE THE- COMMISSIONERS APPOIXTEn TO
W. H. Cutler, provision for divergence there will be ample from
Fr iF H. *'"-' ''S^^*" ''^i^'fi ''" *''C lens is properly constructed,
Hulmes. ftD<l adapted for it.
577. ( 7'o J//-. Cutler.) You arc probably aware of
2 Jan. ISRl. the expense which would have to be incurred in
order to adapt the tower of Dungeness, in its present
fitatc, for the reception of the electric light. l)o you
think that if you had been permitted to ei'ect your
own tower and apjjaratus on that site it would have
been much more expensive than altering the present
tower to receive it ? — The additional cost, over and
above that to be incurred for adaiiting the Dunge-
ness Lighthouse to the electric light, would not
exceed 2,000/. to erect anew iron lighthouse with all
the necessary ap])urtenances, such as light keepers
dwellings; whilst the estimated cost of altering the
present tower to receive the light would amount to
nearly 1,.500/.
.578. In erecting an iron lighthouse tower de novo
would you make ])rovision for the machinery neces-
sary for producing the electric light being placed
within tlie tower, and not in buildings adjoining, as is
now proposed to be done by the Trinity House ? —
Certainly.
o79. AVhat is the space in square feet that you
would require for the engine room ? — We should
propose to erect the steam engines and apparatus at
the upper part of the tower. The advantage of this
would be to dimini.sli the number of attendants by
one half, and economy in other respects would be the
result.
580. You have said that there would be fewer at-
tendants required ; how many attendants are now
necessary in consequence of the position, by the
Trinity House arrangement, of the engine house ;
and how many would you employ when the engines
were placed as you would place them ? — Under the
Trinity House arrangement two liglitkeepers, one
engineer, and one assistant, are necessary. By the
proposed plan, one engineer and an assistant would
be sufficient to do the whole work.
581. Would you work one engine, or would you
Lave duplicate engines ? — Probably, for extra-caution
sake, two engines may be desirable.
582. I conclude then that with two engines you
would work at a very low pressure ? — Certainly.
583. Then there could be no danger, humanly
speaking, of an engine of three-horse power bursting ;
and I conclude that there would be less hazard to the
lighthouse than now exists in every house where there
is a kitchen boiler ? — I consider there would be no
danger whatever.
584. You consider then that there has been delay
in bringing forward and in properly testing this
light ? — Yes ; very considerable delay.
585. Do you consider that delay owing to the matter
not being properly understood by the lighthouse autho-
rities ? — Most undoubtedly : the subject being one of
a very novel and scientific character, it was unlikely
that it would be thorougldy understood at first, by the
authorities at the Trinity House. I should add that
they have, from time to time, as I am aware, con-
sulted Professor Faraday upon the subject, and I
believe he has reported very favourably of the light.
.586. Are you in a position to state that any con-
tinued delay in the erection of the light might be fatal
to its exhibition, or at any rate that it would put it
beyond the power of the prisent ]n-oprietors to go on
with it ? — The continual outlay wiiich delay occasions
is very considerable; and I fear, if some return is not
shortly received by the proprietors, the success of tlie
undertaking will be imperilled.
587. Considering that it would be more or less
discreditable to this country, after all that has bceu
done, with its great resources, scientific and otherwise,
if the electric light should be exhibited in any foreign
country before it is set up in England ; can you in-
form the Commissioners whether tliere is any project
for exhibiling it in any country abroad ? — Tlie lira-
ziliau Uovernnicnt have made inquiries on the sub-
ject of the light, and I am informed that they would
immediately adopt it in one or two new lighthouses
which they are now erecting in that counti-y if it
were adopted in this country, and I believe we should
also have orders for making the apparatus for the
Swcdisli Government as soon as it was adopted here.
588. {Mr. Gladstone to Professor Holmes.) You
have stated that you were the discoverer of the Axct
that the magneto-electric current could be sent be-
tween charcoal points, and give a brilliant electric
light ; can you state to the Commissioners the date
of your first experiments? — In 1853 or 1854 ; I think •
it was in 1854 in Paris.
589. \Aliat led you to make those experiments in
Paris? — In 1853 I was asked to be referee in a case
in Paris, concerning some magneto-electric machines
that were erected ibr tlie purpose of producing gas
for combustion by the decomposition of water;
The proprietor of those machines undertaking that
they should produce a certain quantity of gas per
hour, and getting up a company there for carrying it
out, on tlie experiment being tried it was found to
be a failure. The machines then for a time were con-
sidered useless, and several persons, M. Becqucrel,
others, and myself, were requested to give au opiniou
as to the purpose or purposes for which these ma-
chines might be made available ; all, but myself,
decided that they were no more than toys ; but I pro-
jiosed that they might be employed, and that I would
(by certain alterations that I would undertake to make
in the machines), enable them to be used for the depo-
sition of metals in electroplating and gilding ; per-
haps, in some instances, for the decomposition of
mineral substances. But above this I gave my opinion
that I thought it possible to produce the electric
light by means of those machines. My propositions
were entirely ridiculed, and the consequence was that
instead of saying that I thought I could do it, I pro-
mised to do it by a certain day. On that day, with
one of Duboscq's regulators or lamps, I produced
the magneto-electric light for the first time. But as
the machines were illeonstructed for the purpose,
and as I had considerable dilficulty to make even a
temporary adjustment, to produce a fitting current,
the light could only be exhibited for a fev,' minutes
at a time, say 10 or 20 minutes, when the adjustments
were entirely displaced by the friction ; the rubbing sur-
faces were worn away. From this time 1 directed my
attention more particularly to the reconstruction of the
machines entirely, from the very framework upwards,
so as to produce the current that I saw necessary for the
electric light. In order to get rid of the friction I
employed rollers, at first small, which became, Irom
the lai'ge amount of electricity passing, melted with
the heat, and I now employ large ones, exposing a
broad surface of contact, so tliat after 16 or 17 hours
continual work the whole of the machine, in every
part of it, remains perfectly cool, showing that there
is no injurious friction in any part of it.
590. The French Government have lately been
performing experiments with the magneto-electric
light ; do 3'ou consider that those experiments grew
out of your first trials ? — The experiments now being
tried in France are befng carried on by a man who
was formerly instructed by me, and working under
me ; they were being carried ou by the identical
machine which I left in Paris.
591. Did you continue your experiments long in
Paris ? — A short time after the lirst production of
the light, I left Paris in consequence of not liking
the treatment I received from the French Company,
and I then went to Belgium, as a machine had been
constructed there under my directions, and with that
machine I continued my experiments. About this
time, in 1856, Captain, now Admiral, Fitzroy,
was commissioned by the Admiralty to go to Brussels
and see tlie light, and report upon it. And
at that time the light obtained was, within a
mere fraction, as powerful as I have it at the pre-
sent time. .Shortly after his return to London, I
INQUIRi: IXTO THE CONDITION AND MANAgEMKNT OV LIGHTS, BUOY.S, AND BEACONS.
169
par
came ovei and saw Captain Shcpliard, of the Trinity in order to keep up a constant stream of vapouriLod
'"""'" ""■' ""' '"° "" "'"" '" ""' ""*" carbon from one point to the other. Now, I do not
consider that absolutely necessary, as I find that the
current passing alternately from each carbon point to
the other ivill produce still the electric light, in con-
scqiionce of the enormous rapidity of the changes of
direction ; wiiile the vapour produced by the current
before it is still between tlie carbon points in suf-
ficient quantity to carry the electricity. The light
jn-oduced by this means is not of the same character
as the other. In this both carbons burn at the samo
rate. The focus is larger, in consequence of both ends
or extremities of the carbon being equally heated ;
but there is always, and mast nocessarilv be, a
coloured tiamo surrounding the light, giving i't a very
peculiar character, and distinguishing it completely
from tlie magneto-electric light, produced by the
current passing always in one direction. This is
owing, I believe, to the dispersion of particles of
carbon into the air by the contact of the two, the
upv.'ard and do^v-nward stream of vajjourized or
liquefied carbon, the particles so projected into the
surrounding air burning and producing the'peculiar
flame of carbonic oxide.
594. Do you propose to use the alternate currents,
or the currents brought into one direction, at Duu'i-e-
iioss ? — T!ic currents uniformly in one direction.
o9.J. Do you think that that has a ])re|)onde'rance
of advantage ? — I believe the advantage to be this,
that the light is more steady, and quite free from that
peculiar tremnlousness that to me is escecdinn-ly
disagreeable to the eye when close to it; whether
s injurious to the eye permanently I am not pre-
red to sa}-.
596. xlre the carbons em])loyed bv vou the same
as tliose employed in producing 'the or'dinarv galvano-
olectric light ?— Any carbons that will suit the cue
electricity will suit the other.
597. Have you made many experiments on car-
bons ?— K"o, I have not ; I have taken those that are
to be got in the market up to the present time.
598. {Chairman.) Are you aware of the exact
description of carbon now being used in makin"' tie
experiments at Paris ?— Yes. One kind of urepare'd
carbon now employed in Paris, if it can be manu-
factured, would give a very superior light : but
hitherto, from all I can learn, no pieces have been made
ol It more than three inches long, from some ditH-
cuity I believe, in its manufacture. Of the carbons
that 1 employ each pair consists of one a foot lou"
and the other six inches long. I believe also that
another manufacturer is taking up the subject now
m laris; and although not manufacturing carbons
so perfectly as the small specimens that I saw there
still they are much more free from iron than any that
i have hitherto had to use.
599. What is the length of the carbon that vou
consider necessary to be placed in the machinery o'f a
lighthouse ?_A lamp consumes five inches an hour
or from five to five and a half, the two tOTether'
Hence, if the sum of the two together is about 18
inches, the light will continue for upwards of three
hours wiihout changing the lamp.
600. (Mr. Gladstone.) Have you made any experi-
ments with a view to obtain a variety in the colour of
the light, by steeping the carbons in different salts
or any such metliods ?— I have ; and the result as fir
as a coloured lighr, is concerned, is satisfactory • but
as far as the lens is concerned, it is most unsatisfactorv
as a deposition of the " -i> _ , . , . - '
House, and got his permission to put a magneto-
electric machine r.p at their Experimental Light-
house at niackwall, and it was there tried for a
number of nights, say f)-oni 6 till 10 in tlie evening;
and, from the satisfaction that it seemed to give to
the Trinity House authorities, the South Foreland
Ligiithousc was given to me to place the light in ;
my understanding Vi-ith the Trinity House at that
time being, that il', at the end of three months, there
v,-as no fault found with the light, then it should be
idaced permanently in some lighthouse. At the end
of the three months trial at the South Foreland the
Trinity House required a further trial of six months,
during which six months it was to be entirely under
their own control, I not being allov/ed to interfere at
all in the carrying out of the experiment. During this
time the light was put to a vorj' severe test, as one of
the lightkeepers, who had been accustomed to the ar-
rangement, of the lamps in the lantern from the com-
mencement was suddenly removed, and another took
his place without any previous instruction. This man,
being unacquainted with the light, thought it was
(}uite strong enough if he allowed the carbon points
to touch, as then the light required no attendance
whatever, and he could leave it in that way for
hours together ; and I had to report to the Trinity
House that such was the case, and tliat whenever
this man was on duty there vras a very poor light,
and that his answer, when spoken to by the other
lightkeeper, had been, " 1; is quite good enough."
One of the lightkeepers from the lower light at
the South Foreland was ordered to instruct him,
and tills man, the instructor, had never had an hour's
management of the lanij), except during the interval
of a few days between the leaving of the first liglit-
kceper and the coming of his successor ; still, wi(h
that slight amount of instruction, the man was able
afterwards to carry out tlioso instructions so as to
keep the light at its proper brightness the whole of
the night without difficulty. This took place with
lamps or regulators, which I have now superseded.
The diliiculty of managing those lamps v.-as not in
their construction, but in consequence of their being
composed of clockwork ; and, what with changes of
temperature, the hardening of the oil in this clock-
work, and the rough manner in which uneducated
men poured the oil into tliis clockwork, the lamps
were liable to stoppage, and then, if not attended to,
the light Vi'ould become extinct. In the new lamps
to supersede those, all the clockwork is omitted, and
I now feel perfectly independent of a man for three
hours at a time. The attendance of the lightkeeper
will be simply required to renew the carbons every
three or four hours ; and in case of one carbon burning
a little faster than the other, so as to cause the point
to ascend or descend, that he should then, by merely
turning a little button, regulate the height from time
to time.
592. ( Chairman.') Has the lightkeeper any means
of ascertaining wlien the point is descending or
ascending above or below the focus, without actually
looking at the fiame itself? — At the back cf the light
is a small reflector, a few inches in dhuneter, occu-
pying a part of the lantern that is black or dark ;
through this reflector a small hole is drilled, and the
light passing through this hole falls on a disc, on
which are three lines. When the light is perfectly
in focus, this small star or disc of light falls
across the centre line ; if it ascends, it falls on the
lower line ; if it descends, it falls on the upper one,
or approaches it. Therefore, without looking at the
light, the man simply regards the position of this
luminous point on the disc, and turns the button
accordingly, either up or down.
593. (Mr. Gladstone.) Your present apparatus in-
cludes an elaborate contrivance for bringing the
alternate positive and negative currents into one
direction ; did this form part of your original appa-
ratus ? — Yes. My original idea was that it would be
necessary to have the current always in one direction
I.
TV. H. Cutter.
Prnf. F. H.
Holmes.
2 Jan. 1861.
as a deposition of the vapour of whatever I impreg-
nate the carbon with is deposited in all directions on
fne glass of the lanterns and on the lens, renderin.' it
opaque in a few hours, and in m.'iny instances" to
produce a coloured light ; and as very poisonous sub-
stances are used It must necessarily be injurious to
the health of the keepers, who have to breathe a con-
taminated atmosphere. I may mention as one, nitrate
of strontia, which produces a reddish coloured li<'ht
and is highly poisonous. '^ '
601. Do you not think it possible that you may
discover some substance, the products of the decern-
170
MINPTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COSQIISSIONERS .VPPOIXTED TO
Tf. B. Culle
Esq.
Pfof. F. B.
Holmes.
2 Jan. 1S61.
position of which are permanent gases at the ordi-
nary temperature, and not injurious ? — I am not at
prei^ent aware of any such; but as regards the exhi-
bition of colour, three or more short chimneys,
built one on to the other, each of them an inch or so
in lengtli, placed at the end of a lever, clockwork
giving motion to them upwards and downwards,
will cause changes in the colour of the light from
white through two or three or more colours, to white,
and back again, with any required velocity.
602. {Chairman.) What do you consider will be
the size and diameter of the lenticular apparatus
required for the exhibition of your light for light-
house purposes, and for a fixed light ? — The size
lens that 1 should employ would be that of the sixth
order, the focus being so small, merely requiring such
a size lens as to enable the hand to be put within to
clean it.
603. Have you made any calculation as to the
difference of cost between such an apparatus and
that required for a first class dioptric light ? — The
best answer perhaps that I can give to that question
will be the estimate that Mr. Chance gives me for
lantern, and the lens complete for the electric light
as intended to be mounted at Dungeness, and that
amounts, I believe, to 445/. But this includes two
entire lenticular apparatus, mounted one over the
other, in order that, on the carbons in one lamp
being enlirely consumed, the lamp, now ready in the
other lenticular apparatus, is simply ignited, and in
doing this the one in which the carbon has been con-
sumed is extinguished at the same instant, and thus,
by means of the two lenses, the light never ceases for
an instant.
604. Then whilst the cost of the dioptric apparatus
at the North Foreland is 1,018/. \0s., including trans-
port for one light, you are to be charged 44o/. for two
illuminating apparatus ? — Precisely so. I would also
add that the lantern is constructed of bent plate
glass with diagonal bars, made very thin, so that no
shadow can possibly be thrown on an}' part of
the sea.
605. {Mr. (rladstoiie.) How long do you imagine
that a set of magnets Avill last in constant use in your
machine ? — If in constant use, for ever ; the efliect of
the helices passing the magnets being to continue the
strength of the magnets up to a certain point. I find
bj' experience that the magnets are stronger after six
months' use than they were after a week's use. On
taking the machiue to pieces at the South Foreland,
by direct trials made of their strength, the compari-
sons being made with the strength taken at the time
of erection, I find that the strength is identical with
that after the first removal of the armatures, imme-
diatelv after their being magnetized : they cannot wear
out, as they are not touched in any part l)y tlie re-
volving armatures. I am glad to have this opportu-
nity of contradicting a report circulated by an
engineer who has been employed by the Board of
Trade, that the machines were taken to pieces at the
South Foreland, and the magnets found to have
lost all their force. The value of such an assertion
mav be known from this, that at the time tlie report
was spread the niacliines were n(it taken apart.
606. Is there much wear and tear in any other
part of the apparatus ? — No more than the ordinary
wear and tear of double conical bearings, with which
I believe the amount of friction to be reduced to its
minimum. The commutator merely, from the slight
action on its edges of the current of electricity, re-
quires trimming, or in other words, dressing on the
surface, every six weeks. The commutator will wear
out in about 30 years, and the cost of renewal would
be about 20/.
607. {Chairman.) Do 3-ou consider that the mag-
neto-electric light can be said to have had a complete
and fair trial at the South Foreland, considering that
the lenticular apparatus there was adapted for a
Fresncl oil lamp of three inclies and three quarters
in diameter? — If the lens had been perfect for that
diameter of lamp or li2ht, it could not have been fit
for a light the eighth of an inch in diameter. Hence
it would follow that a full lens of light could not be
seen from any point : but in fact, at the commence-
ment of the experiments at the South Foreland, the
lens was most imperfect for the Frcsnel lamp itself.
608. You have said that the lens at the South
Foreland Light was most imperfect for the Fresnel
lamp itself; did you find that the zones or prisms
were less imperfect than the lenses ? — The imperfec-
tion was principally in the zones or prisms ; one
panel of the lens only was out of the perpendicular,
throwing the light upwards ; but witli regard to the
zones, to the best of my remembrance, ont of 96
zones only two directed the rays of light horizontally,
the other 94, with one or two exceptions, throwing
the light upwards at a considerable angle, instead of
on to the sea or to the horizon ; some of them as
much as one inch in a foot, and one of them more
than an inch and a half in one foot.
609. This dis-adjustment that you speak of is
with reference to the lamp as originally fitted? — Yes.
610. How was it ascertained that this one lens
and the 94 zones or prisms were so much out of
adjustment? — When a person is in the lantern of
any lighthouse, and looks across the lens, so as to
allow the eye to look towards the glass on the oppo-
site side of the lantern between the prisms, then, if
the light passes from those prisms in a perfectly
horizontal line, it would be imjiossible to see the
reflected light upon the glass of the lantern. But
observing in this manner the South Foreland lens, I
found, to my surprise, that the light thrown back to
my eye from the glass of the lantern was that of a
prism two ranks, in someinstances, lower than the one
I was looking over. And with respect to the defective
adjustment in any panel of the lens, this may be
i-eadily discovered by placing the e_ve on the level
of the centre of the flame, and then observing the
reflected ligiit on the lens itself. If the reflected light
from the lens itself is thrown back to the eye exactly
across the line of light you are l.oking at, then the
panel is perpendicular and in its place, but if not, it
shows at any rate that one surface of the lens is out
of the perpendicular ; and in examining the lens I
have alluded to in this way, I foimd the reflected ray
to be thrown much below the centre of the light, and
therefore sending its light upwards, above the sea.
The direction of this panel was towards the Dungeness
Lighthouse : it passed over Dover Harbour.
611. Did you take any steps for the re adjustment
of the defective lens, or of the 94 defective zones
or prisms ? — The first defect that I reported to
the Trinity House was, that the shadows of the
brass framing of the lens did not fall on the
astragals of ihe lantern, but fell at the side of them,
so increasing the shadow materially at sea. Upon
this one of the Elder Brethren came down to .see the
lens, and ordered the lens to be turned slightly on
its axis. This did not remedy the defect, and for
this reason — the lens is an inch and a half or there-
about out of the centre of the lantern, and therefore
in putting one shadow right, the others were made
worse. 1 took that opportunity of one of the Elder
Brethren being down there a second time, to mention
the defect in the prisms, and on calling at the
Trinity House .';onie time after, I saw Professor
Faraday there, and we had some conversation on the
subject. It was then proposed that Mr. Wilkins
should send down a man to alter any prisms that
I should point out as being defective, and to change
their position in the frames ; but it was then pro-
posed at the same time that the correction should be
made by sloping the entire panel containing a set of
these defective prisms, but that I was on no account
to adjust it for my light, but it was to be adjusted
for a large Fresncl lamp. On the man coming down
to make tiiese alterations he soon discovered that it
was totally impossible to make the correction by any
alteration in the position of the panel ; that each
zone or prism would u-.juire to be removed and re-sct,
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGE>IENT OF LIGHTS, Bf OTS, AND BEACONS.
171
and this he at once commenced doing, employing as
his assistants the two lightkeepers. On commenc-
ing to re set them after one day's work I observed
the effect at night, and found that they were still
very much out of the truth, some of tlicm being
very much over corrected so as to direct the rays too
much ill a downward direction ; and tlic next day I
assisted the man by showing him a ready means of
ascertaining wlien the rays passed exactly in a
horizontal direction from the lens. This was done
by placing on the outside of the lens a straight edge
— say three feet in length — on which a spirit level
being placed, it was nicely adjusted to a level, the
end of the edge being exactly opposite the middle of
any zone to be adjusted; the red ball of an inch
and a half in diameter, previously used as represent-
ing the flame of the lamp, being in its place. On
directing the eye along this straight edge to the
prism, tho ball ought to be seen; and now the defect
was very readily discovered in the set of these zones
or prisms, for it was found, in many instances, that
the eye had to be elevated three inches, still looking
to the centre of this prism, before this ball could be
seen. And on changing the prism slowly, and alter-
ing its set, these rays, passing through the prism from
the ball, were gradually brought down, so that at last
the eye, on looking in a direct line corresponding
with the straight edge, saw the centre of the ball
exactly opposite to that. In this way not only the
lower but the upper prisms were altered ; and to the
best of my remembrance there were only two that
were found correct enough to leave them as they
were. The time occupied in doing this I believe to
have been between two and three weeks.
612. In the last reply you spoke of adjusting tho
lenses and prisms horizontally ; do you mean to the
geometric or to the sea horizon ? — ^To the geometric
horizon, as that was the direction that was given,
Wilkins's man having orders to correct them to the
exact level, or exactly at right angles to the perpen-
dicular.
613. Mr. Campbell wishes you to be asked whether
the electric light and the red ball, of which you have
spoken, were set in the focus of the lens in the axis
of the whole instrument, and generally as much in the
centre as possible ? — In adjusting the lens and prisms
the red ball was placed in the exact ceutie, but; my
light was always placed by me at about 3-16ths of an
inch above the true centre, but still in the axis of the
apparatus.
614. {Mr. Gladstcne.) Were the 3-16ths of an
inch with a view to bringing the horizontal beam of
light down to the sea horizon ? — It was.
615. (C/iairmaii.) Mr- Campbell wishes you to be
asked wliether, in raising your light so as to bring
the beam of light dowk lu the sea horizon, you con-
sidered the case of the prisms as well as the case of
the lenses ? — Yes. I knew that I should lose a por-
tion of light from the upper prisms, but as I consi-
dered my light or luminous point to be beyond the
focus of the apparatus, in consequence of being in the
axis instead of round the axis, as the flame of the
lamp is, the raising of this point compensated in some
measure for its distance further back, and brought
the rays of the lower prisms further out towards the
horizon than they would otherwise have fallen.
616. Mr. Campbell understands you to say, that
when the operation was completed the upper prisms
were sending rays above the geometric horizon ; the
lens part was sending rays down to the sea horizon,
and the lower prisms were sending rays to the geo-
metric horizon ? — It is true that the lens was sending
the rays to the sea liorizon, the lower prisms were also
sending them to the Spa horizon, because I do not
consider tiiat in raising the light 3-16lhs of an inch,
that I raised it sufficiently high to throw them to the
geonie'ric horizon. Witli regard to the upper prisms
I sacriliced some rays, but the rays of my light that
fall on the upper prisms are only the rays of the
lower carbons, and not near so powerful as the rays
that fall on the lens and lower prisms.
617. The electric light being so placed, and about
Y2
the size of a pea, how do you account for the fact ^- -^ '^«*''^
that it was seen close to Dover, and on the horizon ? Profp h
— In this^ way, that although my light was raised ''holmes.
3-16ths of an inch above the true centre of the lent!-
cular apparatus, still it was by my calculation l-8th 2 Jan. 1861.
and a sixteenth below where it should have been
placed to bring the rays from the lower prisms to the
geometric horizon.
618. Will you look at this drawing (m Me .<4/)/>en-
dix to the Report.) {The same being shown to the
witness.) This is traced from the inverted imnse of
the landscape formed by the lens at the South Fore-
land lighthouse, on a sheet of ground glass placed in
the focus of the lens ; your liglit was accordingly in
this position ; by what process did you get the di-
vergence which is represented on this drawing by
nearly three inches of flame, whereas your light is
represented by l-8th of an inch, and corresponds in
size with the image of a ship di-stant about a mile ?
With regard to the distant rays it was in fact simply
the divergence due to the furm'ation of the lens, but the
light falling on the sea close in shore was due to the
reflection by the small circular conical reflector placed
under the light horizontally to intercept all those rays
that fell on the service table of the lens, and in fact
all that fell below the lower series of zones or prisms.
Those rays so reflected were thrown up into the
third and fourth rank of the upper prisms, coming
then, as it were, from a point something like three
inches or more below the real focus of the lens ; they
made a corresponding angle in issuinn- from the
upper prisms with the horizontal line," and hence
descended to the sea at a distance varying from two
to four miles.
619. In the apparatus which is row being con-
structed by Mr. Chance for the magneto-electric light
to be exhibited at Dungeness, is provision madeby
reflectors, or by any other means, for obtaining the
requisite divergence; I mean suHicient to illuminate
the sea in shore ?— This part does not concern the
apparatus at all that Mr. Chance is makinsr, but
depends entirely upon a small reflector that will be
placed in the same position, and below the luminous
point. But the eflect in the small lens will be much
greater ; instead of throwing the light so far out at
sea, as at the South Foreland, the light will now be
brought almost cloae round the lighthouse.
620. Mr. Campbell wi.shes you to be asked with
reference to the rays that went further to sea. It
was observed by the Coramissioneis, on their visit to
the lighthouse at the South Foreland, that, besides the
conical reflector which you have mentioned, there was
another reflector placed behind the electric lio-ht,
which appeared to be an upright leflector, composed
of two portions of a hollow cylinder. Will that re-
flector, in any way, account for the divergence which
was discovered to exist, and which has not yet been
accounted for ? — I should say decidedly not. The use
of that re ector was partially to destroy the enormous
shadows produced conjointly by the frame of the lens
and the astragals of the lantern, and was so formed
that, looking at that, and the light from any point round
the lantern, the light reflected in the reflector was
always distant from the light itself three inches, and
thus that light always passed into and crossed the
shadow irom the main light. But that the liwht
reflected from this was not at all equal to the li°lit
itself was very evident to any one standing outsTde
the lighthouse, as then, in the air, the shadow from
the astragal and frame still had the appearance of a
dark line in the air, and if the light had been equal
to that from the reflector these lines or shadows in
the air would have been nearly invisible.
621. But, in speaking of the first reflector, which
you mentioned, you said that in consequence of the
reflection the light appeared to radiate Irom a point
behind that reflector ; did the light not radiate in
like manner, or appear to radiate,"from points behind
the cylindrical upi ight reflector also ; and did the light
not then thereby seem to diverge from the coiijuglite
focus of the lens, so that the lens would bring those
rays to a focus at some point outside the lighthouse.
172
.AnXUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN" BEFORE THE COJfMISSIOXERS AVPOINTED TO
ir. H. Culler, from which thev would again diverge, so as to give the
p ^*'- required divergence ? — Yes.
™'', '• ■ 622. Will net that perhaps account for the other-
Wise unexplained divergence f — tor the reason 1 have
2Jan. ISi'.I. already given, I should say not, because those rays
were so feeble that they could not be called the rays
of the light.
623. Were those reflectors of polished silver similar
to the reflectors used in the catoptric lighthouses ? —
Yes, they were.
624. Then why should the rays from that piece of
silver be less brilliant tliaii the reflected r.ays from
other pieces of silver ? — Because the form of the
reflector prevented the formation of a focus, whereas
in large reflectors intended to be used in liglithouses
the construction is such that the rays from the focus
pass out nearly in parallel lines, and you see, from
wherever it can be observe^l, the whole reflected on
the same held ; but in my small reflector the reverse
was the case, the light in that always appearing less
in size from its peculiar curvature than the light
itself.
625. Had you these reflectors from the beginning,
and was the light always placed as you have de-
scribed ? — The light was always placed slightly
above the true centre of the lens, but I had not the
reflectors at the commencement.
626. Was the divergence observed to be the
same after the reflectors were there as before r — The
first report that was made to me on the divergence of
the light, was by Professor Faraday, who said that
lie was surprised to find the sea so lighted up, and so
equallv from the horizon to within a lew miles of the
lighthouse. At that time no reflectors whatever
were used, and the application of the reflectors was
an afterthought, in consequence of the dark shadows;
the total darkness at sea in the shadows of the astra-
gals was misunderstood by captains and otliers at sea,
and was supposed to be a total extinction of the
light during the time thcj' sailed or steamed tliroujih
them, and in cousenuence of that I jdaced a small
reflector with a peculiar curve at the back of the light.
627. But the other reflector was there before ? —
Kg. Then it struck me also, that the light in the
lantern was so disagreeably strong that, if I placed a
small reflector under the light as well, I might
utilise that light by throwing it into the upper
prisms, and causing it to light up the sea close in shore.
628. Do you consider that, even afier the adjust-
ment of the lens and prisms by Jlr. Vt'ilkius's man,
the apparatus at the South Foreland was sufficiently
adapted for the magneto-electric light to afford a fair
trial of that light during the remainder of the ex-
periments ? — I do not, the divergence being enor-
mously too great.
629. It appears then, from all you have stated,
that a very large proportion of the light which was
produced from the magneto-electric light was, with
the South Foreland apparatus, and even after the
adjustments, thrown upwards above the horizon, and
that still the remainder of the light produced that
cfl'ect beyond and at the horizon, and near the light
at Boulogne, and near Dover, which has been so much
admired by those who have observed and reported on
the light during its exhibition ? — Yes ; even with this
apparatus, adapted to an enormous lamp compared
with my light, I got this effect.
630. It might be stated by some that they were
not satisfied as to the sufliciency and accuracy of
your means of testing the amount of the divergence,
which, you have said, was enormously too great — in
fact, double that which you required ; what answer
would you give to any such objection ? — In the first
place the light was constantly observed from the
lantern of Grisnez, Calais, Dungeness, and the Xorth
Foreland. Grisnez, Calais, and the North Foreland,
were considerably above mj- natural horizon ; hence
if the light was seen there, all the light seen there
must have been light perfectly useless at sea. Dunge-
ness is not so much above my horizon as the others,
but, being above, I requested that the observations
should be made from the foot of the tower, and not
from the lantern ; hut I found that they were made
from the lantern, which, as I have stated, is above my
horizon, I have also tried the amount of divergence,
by allowing the shadow from an opaque substance to
be thrown through the rays at night, and I have
always found tiiat nearly half the rays pass above
the horizon. In these observations I have used the
Gull Stream Light as my horizon at night, and I
have also frequentl)* observed the under surfaces of
clouds, passing over the sea at perhaps two or three
miles distance, illuminated ; although, from the fact
that the Calais Light was perfectly visible under the
clouds, I should judge that their altitude must have
been considerably above that of the lighthouse.
631. (.1/-. Gladstone.) You spoke of the upper
prisms being of minor importance, because the main
light was from the upjwr charcoal point ? — Yes.
632. The upper prisms form a more complete series
usually than the lower prisms, and I presume that
there would be no difficulty in inverting the position
of those points ? — Not the least. In lenses constructed
for the electric ligbt, the lower prisms would be in-
creased, and the upper prisms would be diminished,
as being less useful.
633. (^Chairman.) You mean in constructing them?
— Yes. An inverted lens, such as that of the South
Foreland, would certainlv have been more eiicctive
for me than in its present state.
634. (Mr. Gladslniic.) Can you not adjust the
light so as to throw a considerable amount of rays
upon the upper prisms? — Yes; by a dili'eront con-
struction of tlie lamp or regulator I can cause the
current to pass in a reverse direction ; hence the
lower carbon would become the more luminous, and
the upper carbon the loss luminous in opposite posi-
tions to the present. In that case the powerful rays
would all be thrown upon the upper pris-ms.
()3o. Supposing you allowed alternate negative
and positive currents to pass between the charcoals,
would you not have both points equally luminous ? —
Certainly.
636. Do you think that anything would be gained
b}- that ? — I do not ; at present my opinion is the
contrarv, that neither of them would become so
luminous as by the present method of sending the
current in one direction. I have at present no reason
to alter that opinion.
637. The electric light from charcoal points con-
■tains a very Large amount of highly refrangible rays.
I observed at the Soulh Foreland that the glass
became, in consequence, fluorescent ; do you think
that this self-luminous glass adds, to an appreciable
extent, to the value of the light ? — To a certain
extent I would say yes. The light given off by this
lens in a state of fluorescence is very perceptible,
where the direct rays cannot be seen at all ; and I
have found that it, together with the diffused light of
the lantern, gives a shadow equal to that made by the
moon when four days old at a distance from the
lighthouse of about 300 yards.
638. ( Chairmmi.) -Mr. Campbell wishes you to be
asked whether, amongst your methods of testing the
divergence of a beam, you ever tried to ascertain
whether you could soe the light from the lower South
Foreland lantern before tliose reflectors of which you
have spoken were plact-d there ? — Tiie direct rays ot
light, before the reflectors were placed, were not
visible from the lantern of the South Foreland, that
is the lower South Foreland.*
639. {Mr. GUulsfone.) Were they afterwards ?—
Yes ; and always from the prism on which the lower
reflector threw the light.
640. {Chairman.) Mr. Campbell wishes you to be
asked this question, whether after the reflectors were
placed, on looking from the lower South Foreland the
light was visible in any part of the apparatus in the
upper lighthouse at the South Foreland? — It was
visible in the upper jirisms.
* The image of tlie lantern of the lower tower was formed by
the refract irs, in the upper at about three inches above the burner,
and two inches above the image of the horizon, — J. F. C.
IXQUIUE INTO THE COXDiTIOX A.\D JIAXAGEMEXT OF LIGmS, BfOYS, AND BEACOXS.
I to
Gih (Jlr, Glads/one.) Have you ever cxpciicnccd
any difficulty from clironiatic aberration ; or, in other
words, has the whole divergent beam of light been
alvviivs a uniform colour throughout its divergeuee ?
— No beam of light in p;iss!ng tlirough any one
pri-irii escaped decomposition ; but tlic result of the
assemblage of these coloured rays after passing
^speaking now of t ha rays direct fi'om the luminous
point) gave almost a uniform tint, but not perfectly.
Sometimes to the eye the ray would apjjcar slightly
reddened, at other times slightly greenish, but in a
ver)' slight degree. Not so with regard to the rays
taken up by the lower horizontal refiector. From
this the rays were highly coloured, and I considered
that this might be turned to useful account, in
letting the mariner know when he was too close in
shore.
rise and fall of the tide witliout fracturing the
cable.
64o. Reverting to the question of expense or dif
fcrcnce of cost between the magneto electric light
and a first-class light on the dioptric principle, or of
a light so costly as that at Beechoy Head, where
there are 30 burners ; do you consider that a very
material saving would be etfeeted by a more general
application of the magneto-electric light to" light-
houses, &c. ? — If the apparatus is placed as 1 should
Avish it to be, in the watch room at the top of the
tower, that is, immediately under the lantern, so that
no more than the present stafl", only of a different
class, would be required, then the expense of the
magneto-electric light, including fuel, the carbon
burnt in the lamp, and employing one engineer in-tead
of a lightkeeper, at a higher salary, would not exceed
15". //. Calk,
/■:.,/.
Prr.t: F. H.
2 J;n. ISll.
642. Has chromatic aberration formed a subject the expense of such a light as that at Beechey Head,
of consideration between you and Mr. Chance in But perhaps it is hardly so much a question of
economy as of efficiency ; for as the light has beer
increased from aii argand burner, of an inch in
diameter, to one of three inches and three sixteenths
in diameter, burning sixteen times as much oil, ant'
evidently at sixteen times the cost, foi' the purpose of
greater efficiency, in proposing this light v.-itli its
properly a<ijusted lens, I imagine it will give five
times the light of such a large lamp; and there seems
at once to be no re:ison why five times i be price
should not be paid for it. But the real cost of such a
light, as I have stated before, with all the proper
accommodation for the apparatus at the top of the
lighthouse, will not in my opinion be greater than
that of Beechey Head.
646. (Mr. Gladstone.) Have you paid any attention
to the use of reflectors instead of the dioptric appar-
atus ? — Yes. I have paid a great deal of attention to
reflectors, and I have made several forms of reflectors
for the purpose of revolving or flashing lights. These
reflectors are of a peculiar form, the lower portion of
the reflector, up nearly to the centre, being generated
by a parabolic curve, moved horizontally through forty
five degrees, and then revolving on its axis, so as to
form the end curves of the reflector ; the upper por
tion being formed in the same manner, but usin" an
elliptical curve, causing it to revolve also horizontally
on i<s axis through ibrty-five degrees, and then by
revolving on its axis producing a curve at the two
ends of the reflector, the curvature being brought
down about three quarters of an inch below the hori-
zontal line in which the light would be placed. The
eflect of such a reflector as this, when revolving
quickly, is that the light remains visible for one-
eighth of the time of its revolution, and in that caso
appears to be perfectly uniform. When revolviu;;
slowiy the light still remains for more than the
eighth part of the time of its revolution, but it
appears brightest at coming on and going off owinn-
to the concentrated rays from the two ends of the re-
flector passing the eye successively. The upper por-
!u) protection would be required either from the tion of the reflector has the eftect of lighting up all
weather or from the sea, the light burning equally the sea equally from the point that it first strikes it —
arranging the new apparatus? — He says lie can
nearly do away with it.
643. (Chairman.) Have you received any appljci-
tion to light buoys or beacons by means of the
magneto-electric light ? — No, I have not ; but its
applicabilitj'' for the purpose is extraordinary, and
I have no hesitation iu saying that I am prepared to
place a series of buoys of a peculiar construction,
say round a sand bank, that shall require visitina;
not more than once in three months ; that those
buoys shall alternately for a short period, say -half
a minute, shine with the electric light iu its full
force one after the other, so that no instant shall
occur when none of the buoys are luminous, and
that this shall continue niglit after night for three
months, without i-encwing the carbons, or without
any attendance whatever except at the machine room
on shore. All that would be required for it on
-hore would be one system of apparatus for pro-
dacing the electric liglit similar to the one lately
in use at the South Foreland, and two men to attend
to it ; and then at periods of three months, say,
some persons instructed in it, to visit those differ-
e!it buoys, and to renew the carbons. The stiuc-
ture that I propose for the buoys has some pecu-
liarities. Each buoy is provided with what I term a
water anchor, as well as the cables and anchors that
anchor it to the bottom of the sea. This water anchor
consists of a flat plate douljle the diameter of the buoy,
iir even more than double the diameter, through a
liole in the centre of which the cables pass ; this flat
iron plate is supported by chains hangmg to hooks
round the buoy ; its depth in the water ought not to
be less than ten feet, and the effect of it is that a
wave striking the side of the buoj' presses with equal
force, from its extra weight, upon that side of the
flat plate, and prevents nearly all rolling motion in
the buoy. The light apparatus applied to each buoy
would be on the top of a short mast, so as to raise it,
fay from 10 to 20 feet above the level of the sea ; but
brilliant, if not more brilliant, under water than in
the air. Should the wind be high enough to blow it
out, by the very principle of its construction it re-
lights itself in an instant, and this may occur over
and over again during the half minute of the time
that it is to give light, and will merely occasion in a
high wind a series of brilliant flashes instead of a
Constant light.
644. You consider, I presume, that tlie magneto-
electric ligh.t would be perfectly applicable for light
ships ? — It is perfectly applicable for light ships in
tv.-o different ways ; one where a ship is built for it,
and takes its machines and stock of coals on board;
and the other where the position of the light required
is sufficiently near shore to carry out an electric
cable to it, and then the apparatus may be placed on
shore. I have designed an apparatus to allow for the
and that point may be chosen at will — to the horizon.
The eflect, also, of continuing the elliptical curve at
the two ends of the reflector below the light is to
partly destroy that inequality in the light which is
produced from the parabolic part, as it sends the rays
through the other focus of the ellipse, and then
spreads them out, fan-like, horizontally. Suppose
for instance, that the parabolic rays diverged four or
five degrees, making iu all forty-nine or fifty degrees,
the others may be made to diverge at ten miles
distance, so as to cover several miles more of ho-
rizon; in fact the divergence is entirely at the will
of the constructor of the reflector, depending entirely
upon the distance of the outside of the focus of the
ellipse, or in fact the distance between the two foci
of the ellipse.
Adjourned.
Y3
174
MIXUTES OF EVIDEXCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COSnilSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Wednesday, 23rd January 1861.
PKEJE.NT :
Rear-Admival William Alexander Baillie HAjnLTOx, R.N.
Cfiptaiii Alfred Phillips Rydek. R.X.
John Hall Gladstone, Esq.
Rear-Admiral Willlam Alexander Baillie Hamilton in the Chair.
Northern Lighthouse Office,
A. Cuniugham, ' 'i;. Edinburgh, Jauuuiy 17, 1861.
£gq_ I AM directed by the Conimii^sioners of
D. Stevenson, Xorthern Lighthouses to acknowledge receipt of your
Esq. f olographic message of loth, and of Admiral Hamil-
t' . [s-r, ton's letter of same date, and to state tliat the Secre-
"' '*'' "'_' tary and Mr. Stevenson will be in attendance on
Tuesday, the 22nd, at 12 o'clock noon.
They will then arrange as to the Commissioners"
attendance, if not accompanied by them.
I am, &c.
The Secretary Alex. Ccnixoham, Secretary.
Royal Commission on Lights, &c.
Roval Commission on Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, Millbauk Street, 19th January, 1861.
With reference to the last paragraph of your
letter of the 17th inst., I am directed to state that the
Commissioneis are unwilling to give the Northern
Lights Commissioners the trouble of coming to London,
but if there is any point on which they think this
Commission should be specially informed, or if there
is any st.ateraent connected with the maugeraent of
Scotch Lighthouses they would wish to make, this
Commission would be glad to have the same in
writing v.'ith as little delay as possible.
1 am, <\c.
J. F. Campbell,
A. Cuningham, Esq. Secretary.
A statement ivas sent on the \9th of Fehruary, and
is added In the evidence at p. lS6.
Mr. Alexander Cuningham and !Mr. David
Stevenson examined.
647. (Chairman to Mr. Cunimjham.) You are
Secretaiy to the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses ? — Yes.
643. How long have you been secretary to the
Commissioners? — I have been secretary since 1812.
I have been in the service since 1826.
649. I believe the number of the Commissioners is
28 ?— Yes.
650. Under the Act there is power, I believe, to
add to the number ? — Yes, which has been acted
upon ; the Provosts of Dundee and Greenock have
been assumed.
651. Since what time? — Since the passing of the
Act of Victoria, chapter 104, and the sheriff of
Haddington was assumed too. at a general meeting in
January, now current, in consequence of the erection
of a lighthouse at St. Abb's Head.
6-i2. Making the number 29 ?— No, not adding to
the number, because of the death of Mr. Urquhart,
ihc week before, and liis vacancy not being filled up,
his sheriffship merges in another county.
653. They are called the provosts of royal burghs,
and of Greenock ? — Yes.
654. They are not necessarily royal burghs ? — Not
necessarily.
655. {Capt. Ryder.) Are all the royal burghs
included ? — No.
656. {Chairman.) Does the Aci, constiluting the
present board of Commissioners of Lighthouses,
provide for the summoning and holding of meetings ?
— Not the present Act, which is the 17ih and I8th of
Vict., cap. 184. The previous Acts are all repealed, and
the Commissioners are re-incorpor.ated under that Act.
657. {Capt. Iii/dir.) There is no provision? — No.
658. {Chairman. ) By the 18lh section of the
original Act, provision was made for tlie meetings of
the Commissioners ? — Yes, and in point of fact, the
Commissioners have now four general meetings in
the year, and a committee meeting once a fortnight.
659. It h.is fallen to you, I believe, to prepare tlse
returns, which have been sent from time to time to
this (Junimission, in answer to our requisitions ? — Yes.
660. From some of those returns, it would appear
tliat very lengthened correspondence between the
Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses and the Board
of Trade has taken place ? — Yes.
661. Has this correspondence arisen out of the
powers given to the Boai'd of Trade, under the
Merchant Shipping Act of 1854 ? — Yes.
6(>2. Are vou aware, whether the Commissioners
of Northern Lighthouses interpret the action of the
Board of Trade under that Act, in the same way that
the Board of Trade does ? — I think not, judging from
their actions.
663. In answer to the requisition of this Commis-
sion, dated the 4th of June 1859, it is stated that the
duties of the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses
are to take charge of those lighthouses ; that, prior to
1857, those duties were discharged by a committee of
all the members resident in Edinburgh, which com-
mittee met evei-y alternate Wednesday, denominated
the Bell Rock Committee, but that many of the most
etlicient members having withdrawn their attendance,
on account of dissatisfaction with, and, indeed, the
•joustant interference by, the Board of Trade, which
they considered prejudicial to the interests of the
commission, an attempt was made to reconstruct the
committees, by appointing a committee of three to
attend each month by rotation. Those committees
were composed, in a great measure, of members, who,
although equally dissatisfied with the proceedings ol
the Board of Trade, yet considered it their duty to
continue to act. Can you inform the commission,
whether it was on account of the nature and extent of
the control, exercised by the Board of Trade, or of the
manner in which it was exercised, or both, that occa-
sioned this very serious cessation of the Commissioners
of Northern Lights ? — I should say it was from both.
664. Then with respect to the nature and extent of
the control exercised by the Board of Trade, are you
prepared to state any cases in illustration of the
nature and extent of that control ? — I think they
were generally stated in the correspondence which
has been transmitted to the Commission. The
first discussion arose in regard to Whalsey Skerry,
the next in regard to Flugga or North Unst, as it is
called, and then, the lights on the ivest coast, and ge-
nerally, regarding estimates of expenditure of all kinds.
665. {Capt. Ryder.) Since the passing of the Act ?
— Yes. Perhaps I might add, that the services of
the Commissioners are entirely gratuitous, and my
impression is, that they felt this constant interference,
and the non-appreciation of their services, and that
this feeling induced them to withdraw.
666. {Chairman.) As secretary to the Commis-
sioners, and being perfectly conversant, not only
wi»h the frequency of their attendance, but with the at-
tention, more or less, which they paid to their duties,
are you prepared to say that those gei.tlemen have de-
voted the best of their attentioa to the business they
were called upon to trai:suct on all occasions ? — Yes.
667. Do you consider that that attention has been
in its results, of service to the public, as far as the
lighthouses in that country are concerned ? — I should
say so certainly.
668. You have referred to the returns made to this
Commission for cases illustrating the manner in whiclt
the control of the Board of Trade has been exercised
over tlie northern Board ? — Yes, I have.
669. Une ol' those cases I see is the question of the
site of a lighthouse at >\'halsey Skerry in Shetland,
and the point in dispute was a distance of about 700
yards, and whether the light should be placed upon the
extreme point of danger, or at a more commodious point
for building at that distance within the danuer. The
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGLMEN OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS,
175
Board of Trade you say overruled you ? — They did
eventually.
670. Under what section of the Merchant Shipping
Act of 1854 do you consider that the Board of Trade
had the power of determininfr questions of site ? — It
is under sections 404, 405 and 40f) ; but the control
as to Whalsey did not take place under this Act ; it
was built before this Act was passed, at least it was in
progress. It was the first Merchant Shipping Act.
671. It would appear from the correspondence that
there had been considerable discussion between the
Commissioners of Northern Lights and the Trinity
House upon the subject of the site of this lighthouse ?
—Yes.
672. The matter has ended in the light being placed
in a position different from that which the Commis-
sioners of Northern Lights recommended ? — Yes.
673. I believe that in general the complaint of the
Board of Trade has been that the Commissioners of
Northern Lights have been au expensive body ? — I
believe it has, but I do not know. It is so stated in
Capt. Sulivan's evidence before the Merchant Ship-
ping Committee.
674. We gather from the correspondence in this
case, first, that if the Northern Commissioners had not
been overruled the light would have cost about 10,000/.
less than it has cost, irrespective of the very great
additional cost for maintenance on account of its
position ; and secondly, that if it had been in the
position recommended by the Commissioners, it would
have shown over a larser arc than it does at present ?
—Yes.
675. Is it the case that Mr. David Stevenson, wlio
is now employed as one of the engineers to the Com-
missioners of Northern Lighthouses, used to have a
seat at the Board ? — Yes, he had.
676. Since when has he ceased to sit at the
Board ? — Since January, 1855. It was one of the
first acts of the Board of Trade. In consequence of
a representation from the Board of Trade a long
correspondence ensued, and the Commissioners re-
monstrated, and even threatened to resign their posi-
tion as Commissioners, if he was withdrawn.
677. Then it would appear that they had a very
strong opinion as to the value of Mr. Stevenson's
services as an officer of their Board ? — Yes ; they had.
678. As an officer of that Board, did he act as a
permanent inspector, or could you specify at all the
duties that he was called upon to perform? — He had
charge of the ordinary maintenance of the establish-
ment, the preparation of plans, and the inspection of
new works. The maintenance of the ordinary esta-
blishment was after his resignation transferred to me.
679. But the preparation of plans is still confided
to Mr. Stevenson ? — Yes ; to Messrs. Stevenson.
680. Can you specify more particularly those ser-
vices which were formerly performed by Mr. Steven-
son, as an officer of the Scotch board, and which are
now conducted by you in consequence of his ceasing
to be au officer of that board ? — The ordinary main-
tenance and superintendence of the existing lights,
the formation of contracts for stores, the care and
inspection of the light keepers, providing stores of
all descriptions, and keeping the light houses and ma-
chinery in proper repair.
681. {Capt. Ryder.) In fact, the duty of a general
manager ' — Yes.
682. {Cliairman.) Then Mr. Stevenson was able to
pay periodical visits, and personally to inspect the
various lighthouses under the Board ? — I think that
he annually inspected every lighthouse on the esta-
blishment of the Board at that time.
683. I see that, in the return sent to this Commis-
sion, there is a superintendent of light keepers, and
a foreman of lighthouse repairs ? — There are. Those
are officers who now act under me.
684. Those officers were in existence while Mr.
Stevenson was an officer of the Board ? — They were.
685. {Capt. Ryder.) What is your title now? — I
am called Secretary and sometimes General Manager.
686. There is no addition to the title ? — No.
687. {Mr. Gladstone.) Are there questions arising
at the ordinary meetings of the Board, which involve
engineering or scientific knowledge ? — Constantly.
688. Do you think it desirable that there should bo
D. Stcveiisi
i\7.
some one always present at the meetings who is ac- -4. Cimingham,
quainted with those subjects ? — I think it would be ^-'"'i'
very advantageous.
689. Does it not sometimes happen that those
questions, although of some importance, are not of 23 Jan. 18G1.
sufficient importance to submit formally to Mr.
Stevenson ? — It does.
690. At present if those questions are submitted to
Mr. Stevenson, does that involve the paying him a
fee ? — It does.
691. {Captain Ryder.) What was Mr. Stevenson's
salary when he was engineer aiid manager of the
Board ? — 900/. a year, besides the assistant's time
in preparing plans for new works, and all travelling
expenses.
692. Is that the salary for one assistant ? — It is just
the charge for making the plans.
693. Can you give a list of the payments to Mr.
Stevenson during the five yeai-s since his change of
position ? — The fees paid to Messrs. Stevenson since
1st January 1855 to 1st January 1861, being six
years, have amounted, on an average, to 1,252/. per
annum, which, includes all expenses for travelling
charges and assistants' time. During these six years
Messrs. Stevenson have designed and executed for
the Commissioners 13 new lighthouses, and designed
and started four, being, in all, 17 lighthouses, 10
beacons, four alterations of stations, in all 31 new
works, which have cost 125,100/., the whole of which
has been paid under certificates granted from time to
time by the engineers. Besides this about 40 sui-veys
and reports on remits have been made, and several
elaborate trains of experiments have been conducted,
the whole of which duties have been included under
the average payment of 1,252/. per annum for en-
gineering charges and expenses. That portion of
Mr. Stevenson's duties which he performed as
manager was transferred to me, and an addition was
made to my salary — it was then 800/. — of 100/.,
making 900/., and about a third of my time is occu-
pied by this new business.
694. {Chairman.) Has there been any saving
effected in consequence of the change of Mr. Steven-
son's position ? — I should think there has, considering
the number of works, and the impossibilily of Mr.
Stevenson being able, combined with the ordinary
management, to have superintended the erection of
the numerous extensive works which have been carried
on during the last five years.
695. {Captain Ryder to Mr. Stevenson.) Could you
at the previous salary have conducted those numerous
works, with the duties of management as well ? —
Certainly not. It would have been quite impossible.
696. {Mr. Gladstone to Mr. Cuninghani.) If a
scientific improvement, engineering or otherwise, be
suggested to the Board, what is the course at present
adopted for testing its valu.e ? — It is remitted to the
engineer to experiment up on, and report under the
direction of the Board ; and he is paid separately.
But all such jiayments are included in the statement
I have made as to the payments received by Messrs.
Stevenson.
697. {Captain Ryder.) Can you give the Commis-
sion any idea of tlie number of experiments so re-
mitted, and the expense that has been incurred in
respect of them ? — There have been five or six such
remits and reports. The sum paid has been 123/. 9*.
and Messrs. Stevenson are at present engaged in
further experiments.
698. Are as many scientific improvements now sub-
mitted to the Board as when Mr. Stevenson attended
its meetings ? — Pretty much the same.
699. But some improvements are suggested which
are really of little or no value ; are all improvements
submitted to the engineers, or do the Commissioners
use their own discretion ? — There are some sugges-
tions which any one can see through. I do not think
that those are remitted to the engiueeis ; the more
important are remitted.
700. {Chairman.) Can you inform this Commission
wheiher there is any prospect of the lighthouse on tho
Skervuile, or Iron Rock, being commenced ii) tho
Sound of Jura ? — It is impossible for me to say.
701. Can you inform the Commission where that
matter is now hung up ? — The Commissioners origi-
4-
176
MINUTES OF EVIDENCr. TAKEN' BEFORE THE CO^!MISSIO^"EKS .U'POINTED TO
A. Ommgham, y_g_\{y lepoi'tcQ upon the proposed site, aud the Board
^"l- of Inule aud the Trinity House concurred with the
D. Stcicnsov, - - - ~-
2.-! Jan. ISGl.
Commissioiiers in the sch;ction of Skervuile .-is the
propL'r sitL' for the erection of the lij;:ht. The Coni-
iiiissioners then proceeded to give orders to the en-
sinoer to prepare the plans, which he did, and tlu-
i^peciiicatiou aud estimates were sent to tlie Board of
Trade. They objected to the amount of the estimate.
702. Did they approve of the plans ? — Yes, they
did. They wrote to the Commissioners to say that they
■would give 6,000/. to be expended on that light,
and thcTCommissioncrs had recourse again to their
enprineers to ask them whether the plans could pos-
sibly be executed for 6,000/. The engineers reported
that it was quite impossilde, but that they could put
up a liglithouse on Skervuile for 6,000/., of wood, if
the Boiud of Trade ap|)roved. The Board of Trade
wrote back to say, that they did not object to the
plans ; but the lighthouse must be built for 6,000/.
or not at all. The estimate was 9,360/., and the
Commissioners wrote back to say that ihoy were
very sorry the light v\-as not to Ije ereeted. There
has been some correspondence since of which I luivo
brought a copy, from which I will read this passage —
" It has occurred to my Lords, with a view of
" settling this long pending question, that the objects
" in view might possibly be attained by placing a
" light on Diinans' Head abreast of the Iron Rock,
" with a red baud of light thrown over the rock."
703. In the letter you have just read to tho Com-
mission a passage occurs to the elleot, that it has
occurred to the Lords of the Coraiiilttce of Privy
Council for Trade, with the view of settling this long
pending question, that the objects in view might po^.
sibly be attained "by placing the light on Dunan
" Head abreast of the Iron Rock." L'nder what
section of the Merchant Shipping Act of 1854 do
vou consider the Board of Trade empowered to sug-
gest sites ? — I do rot find any section which confers
such a power, unless it be assumed under the 405th
section, where the Board of Trade may "give
" any directions they may think fit in relation to the
" matters submitted to them." But the Commis-
sioners, the Trinity House, aud the Board of Trade
being agreed, and having expressed their agreement
upon the site, I v.ould hold that the powers of the
statute are exhausted, and that if any other site is to
be adopted, the directions of the statute must be
again followed out. If tho site agreed upon is to be
rejected, and another site to be adopted, the whole of
the process must be gone through again, as provided
in the statute.
704. But as there is this question of change of
site, and as this work has been in abeyance for about
three years, what is there to prevent these changes
going on ad hijinittnn ? — Nothing.
705. I believe that very strong opinions have been
expressed to the Commissioners as to the eligibility
of the Iron Rock, and the expediency of selecting it
as the position Ibr the light ? — There have ; and
they have expressed their opinion to the Board of
Trade, that the Iron Rock should have had tho
precedence in execution of other lights on that
coa^t. I may mention a conversation which T had
with Capt. Graham of the " Clansman " at Olian, a
Tessel which passes up and down the Sound of dura
twice a week, in which he stated that he never could
go to rest until he was past the Skervuile Roek,
cither going or returning ; that he never considered
himself in safety till he knew he was past that. This
conversation he accompanied with a request to know
■whether the Commissioners would authorize the ex-
hibition of a light u])on a distiller}' on the shore,
because lie said that the lights from flic furnaces of
that distillery had occasionally guided him past ;
nnd that even that, however small it might be, would
be a ndief to him. I told him that the exhibition
of such a lemiiorary light as ho suggested was a
matter •which the Commissioners could not entertain ;
that the other proposal was before the Board of Trade,
and itrcsted with them to authorize it. He expressed
his opinion that he would like a light on the Iron
Rock in preference to all the other lights erecting on
tho coast, as he considered it much more inqiortant,
The Commissioners coincide in those opinions ex-
pressed by Capt. Graham ; and upon this point I will
read an extract from a letter which was addressed to
the Board of Trade, dated the 28th April 18oS):—
" With these remarks the Commissioners confidently
" s initthis important question for the consideration
" of my Lords, reminding their Lordships that the Com-
" missiouers have already pointed out that a light in
" this situation, lying in the highway from the Clyde
" to ihe highlands, and frequented by many thousands
" of human beings, is more urgently wanted than
" others that arc in progress. Thus, it is only a few
" years since that a steamer of the value of 15,000/.
" was totally ■^v^ecked on the rock in question. And
" the Commissioners think that the trade will have
"just cause to complain if the erection of the light-
" house is abandoned in consequence of the estimate
" being higher than may have been contemplated by
" mv Lords, while other lights of much less iinjior-
" tance are being proceeded -with."
706. Can you remind the Committee of the date on
which ilessrs. Stevenson's original estimate for tho
lighthouse Oil the Iron Rock was forwarded to tho
Board of Trade ?— March 1859.
707. I believe it is the case that the engineers ere-
jjloved o;i this occasion have not been able in any
way to diminish the original estimate upon tho plans
•svhich have been approved by the Board of Trade ? —
They nave not.
70S. Can vou state generally what the usual number
of contractors is that tender for the erection of light-
houses iu Scotland ? — They vary very much — accord-
ing to the extent of work which induces a great mauy
to come forward.
709. Hoes it ever include tenders from other parts
than from Scotland ? — It has never yet, but that is
not the fault of the Conunissioners. AVhea the plans
are returned by the Board of Trade and approved,
flic Commissioners advertise for contractors iu the
local iia])ers, and in the " Times " newspaper iu Lon-
don, and, in answer to those advertisements tenders
are transmitted. In the recent case of Jionach,
where this course was pursued, the Commissioners
had 15 inquiries, including one from Loudon aud one
from Londonderry. The following arc the addresses :
— Mr, Hender.soii, Glasgow ; Mi\ McDonald, Glas-
gow ; Messrs. Barr and Co., Ardrossan ; I>Ir. R.
Montgomery, Mull ; ~SIy. A. Kinghorn, Leith ; Mr.
D. W. Aruoti, Inverness ; Mr. D. Scott, Montrose ;
Mr. Mackay, Inverness; Jlr. Stu.art, Fetcrhead;
Mr. Dunnet, Helensburgh ; Mr. Robertson, Portree ;
Mr. Russell, Glasgow ; Mr. H. Kinghorn, London-
derry ; Jlr. Jacksou, 10, Cannon Street, London ;
Mr. Spence, Mull.
710. How mauy tenders ■s\-erc there ? — Of thoso
eight tendered.
711. Were they all Scotch ? — Yes. In other cases
the Commissioners are prevented from advertising
by the Board of Trade for their tenders, such as for
lanterns aud apparatus, and they are directed to
transmit the specifications to certain named houses
iu England and Scotland. I may also mention the
lightning conductors. In 1857; the Commissioners
issued tenders to two firms in Scotland, Messrs.
ililne and Son, and Adie and Son. Jlilne and Son's
offer of 206/. \os. 6(1. was recommended to the Board
of Trade for acceptance ; and had the Commissioners
been untrammelled, would have been accepted of
before a letter came from Me.s.srs. Milne and Son with-
drawing their offer in consequence of a rise in the
ju'lee of copper. The Board of Trade then directed
the Commissioners to reissue their tenders, and named
in addition four houses in England and two in Glas-
gow. This was done, and tenders again submitted
from one house in London, one iu Glasgovi', and the
previous offerers, Messrs. Adie and Son and 3Ii!ne and
Son. Milne aud Son were again the lowest at
256/. 10*. ; but at an advance on their previous offer
of 50/., and it was accepted. Thus a loss of 50/. on
this article was incurred solely from the delay caused
by transmitting the tenders to London. Again, in
the course of last year, the Commissioners applied to
the Board of Trade for theirsanction to supply light-
ning conductors, when the Boai-d of Trade wrote to
the Commissioners to suspend operations for a time.
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BL'OYS, AND BEACONS.
17;
Then came a suggestion that a Mr. CTray of West-
minster would supply hollow tube at the rate of
4s. 7i)d. per foot, which tiiey stated was much below
the rate of the Commissioners previous contract of
6»'. 2dk. The Commissioners pointed out that that
rate had included fixing and | every other cost, while
Mr. Gray's was for the rod per foot only, delivered in
Loudon. The Board of Trade replied that they had
overlooked this, and requested tenders to be issued.
Tenders were accordingly sent to all the previous
English houses named, with the addition of Gray.
Only three Scotch lirms tendered. Gray also ten-
dered for the rod, — but not to fit it up — at Ss. lOrf. per
foot. Adie and Son was accepted ; and the contract
was made at the rate of Is. lOyi. per loot for solid
rod, or 5s. '3d. incKisive of all expense for fitting.
712. Are you aware that Messrs. Stevenson are
sufficiently acquainted with engineering works in
England, to bo able to answer tiie questions which
this Commission wish shortly to put to Mr. David
Stevenson as to the means of comparing the esti-
mates for works similar in name and character in the
three countries ? — I should think they are, as I believe
they have had extensive works to execute, both in
England, Ireland, and Scotland.
713. {To Mr. Slevenso/i.) The greater part of the
voluminous correspondence between the Board of
Trade and the Commissioners of Northern Light-
houses, which has come before this Commission, has
relation to the questions of estimates and the cost
of works. Perhaps you could inform the Commis-
sion generally where the dififerenee has arisen, or
point out particularly where objections have been
made to the cost of the works undertaken by the
Commissioners of Northern Light? ? — With regard
to the engiueering dififerences between the Board of
Trade and the Commissioners of Northern Lights, in
order that you may understand them, I should wish
to say that their position, with reference to the Boai-d
of Trade, has changed on several occasions. Some-
times, as has already been stated, the Commissioners
have been resisting what they considered undue ex-
penditure, and sometimes the Board of Trade on
their part have been objecting to what they con-
sidered to be undue expenditure. I do not of course
impute any desire to the officers of the Board of
Trade to interfere unnecessarily, but I believe they
have sometimes acted on imperfect or inaccurate
data. In 18o3, when I was appointed as Engineer
to the Board, on the resignation of Mr. Alan Steven-
son, from bad health, the Board were engaged in
building the Whalsey Skerries, and alter the Northern
Lights were put under the Board of Trade, the first
time I was in London, was for the purpose of en-
deavouring to show that a light in that particular
locality was necessary, the Board of Trade being of
opinion that it was unnecessary to encounter so much
expenditure — about 11,000/. in putting a light there.
That was the original estimate for the light on Gruna.
Then, as it has been explained by Mr. Cuningham,
tha:, interview did not terminate in the result antici-
pated, and the Board of Trade desired the works
to be stopped. Again the Board of Trade, some
months afterwards, allowed the light as proposed
by the Commissioners on Gruna to go on, but the
contractor made a claim amounting to nearly 800/. for
delay, which was paid to him. Then in 1854 when
the Trinity House and the Board of Trade visited
Shetland, they proposed that the light should be moved
from the Island of Gruna to the Bound Skerry Rock
lying about 700 yards in front of it, and be erected
there at an additional cost of about 10,000/.
714. {Capt. Ryder.) Making 20,000/. altogether ?
— Yes. But the Commissioners being of opinion that
all the purposes of navigation would be served by
having a light on Gruna did not see the propriety of
placing it on Bound Skerry. However the Trinity
House and the Board of Trade considered the outer
spot preferable. The Commissioners explained their
views very fully at the time, and those views were
generally that this light was intended to mark the
geographical position of a long group of islands ex-
tending 15 miles from the mainland of Shetland,
and not to indicate a local danger, and they could not
see the object in removing the light so very small a
space as 600 or 700 yards seaward of the site
I. 1
proposed at such an expense, the exposure of the ^1. Cuningham,
outer site rendering very substantial and costly ^'•l-
works necessary, and a constant extra annual cost ■ '^"^'"«'".
in keeping up the light. The other difference of ''^'
opinion was as to Lamba Ness and Muckle Flugga 23 Jan. 1861.
in the north of Shetland. The Commissioners had
put up a temporary light there lor the Baltic fleet.
715. At both of those places ? — No ; at Muckle
Flugga. But they had, before putting up that tem-
porary light, expressed their opinion that Lamba
Ness was a proper place at which to establish a light,
and their reason for doing so was that the light on
Lamba Ness would complete along with ^\■halsey
Skerries the lighting of the whole of the eastern
coast of Shetland, whereas were the light placed on
Muckle I"lugga it would be cut of}' by Lamba Ness,
and would leave a large portion of intervening
coast dark. lu this they were overruled, the Trinity
House and the Board of Trade agreeing that Muckle
Flugga was the fiivourable point. The light has
been erected there at a cost of about 32,000/., the
estimate for the light on Lamba Ness, where the
Scotch Board wished the light to be, was 11,000/.
or 12,000/.
716. So that an injury has been done at a cost of
20,000/. ? — There can be no doubt that such is the
difference of cost. The Commissioners were of opinion,
after a full investigation of the matter, and they
remain so now, thai a light on Lamba JSess would
have been far more efRciunt than a light on Muckle
Flugga, In fact, my opinion is that to complete
the lighting of that coast a light at or near Lamba
Ness is still necessary'. The Commissioners were
memorialized in favour of Lamba Ness by the
shipping interest at Peterhead, and thereafter they
took the opinion of the different shipping interests
on the coast ; they applied to Hull, Aberdeen, Dundee,
Leith, Frazerburgh, and I believe that all of those
ditferent interests concurred in thinking that Lamba
Ness was a better site than North Unst. The first
question about the estimates, or about the cost of
works was with reference to this light at Muckle
Flugga. We reported that a permanent light there
would cost 27,500/., and Mr. James Walker, the
engineer of the Trinity Board, was consulted. The
Board of Trade thought that a smaller estimate might
be stated, and the plans which we made were sub-
jected to the review of Mr. James Walker, with whom,
as there was a question of some little dithculty as to
the safety of temporaiy buildings on that rock, and
the best structure for a permanent tower, we very
gladly at once agreed to co-operate in the matter.
We had a good deal of correspondence with Mr. Walker
on the subject, and after in.specting the plans we had
prepared Mr. Walker says, " as respects the general
" design of the tower and the dwellings the principle
" of economy appears to me to have been very strictly
" attended to." Those works have been since exe-
cuted, and the actual cost is 32,478/., it having been
estimated by us at 27,500/. exclusive of the landin<^
place and stair up to the top of the rock. However,
whether the Commissioners in these questions as to
the best sites for Whalsey and Unst were right or
wrong, they are settled now, and the only reason
for referring to them is to show that the Commis-
sioners were actuated by a desire to do as much
good as they could for the navigation, and at the
same time to do it without expending what they con-
sidered to be an unnecessary sum of money. Then
the next questions had reference to Ushenish, Rona,
Kyleakin, Isle Ornsay, Sound of Mull, and Rhu
Vaal Tlie Commissioners were asked by Admiral
Beechey to prepare plans for those on as economical
a scale as they could possibly be prepared, and the
only diflbrence between the sort of work employed at
Muckle Flugga and that adopted at these new lights
was that instead of having roofs of lead the Com-
missioners were asked by the Board of Trade to
adopt slate. We reported that in some situations
slate might be used, but in others we conceived that
it would be not at all a saving ultimately to employ
slate, but that lead ought to be adopted. After a
good deal of difficulty the Board of Trade agreed
to adopt lead for Ushenish, but for the other lights
slate was adopted.
717. Can you state the difference in price Vetween
178
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEX BEFOHE THE LOMiUSbXONKRS Al'POlNTEU TO
A. Cii'iiiir/!:am,
D. Sfet'cnsoJiy
23 Jan. l^Cl
a slate nntl a lend roof? — 240/.. incliuliiig the cost of
iron beams instead of wood.
718. On each site ? — Yes, there being 240/. diffe-
rence on each site. Those plans, after being all
arranged, ivere sent to the Board of Trade, and. on
returning them, a statement was made, tliat " the dc-
" signs were made out with due regard to economy."
tFo. Be good enough to supply the date when that
statement was made ? — oth March 1855. Those lights
were executed, and, with reference to one of them,
Khu Vaal, it is right to say that the original site which
the Commissioners projiosed was nearer to the en-
trance of the Sound of Mull.
720. Which entrance ? — The north entrance : but
Admiral Beechey. wishing to open up the Sound
between Islay and Orousay, suggested that the site
of the light 'should be moved further out, and that
the height of the tower should be raised for that pur-
pose. That increased the original estimate by, I
think, a sum of 1,500/. Those lights were all ar-
r.inged and executed, and, after that, I had no reason
to suppose that the Commissioners would liave had
any further difficulty on the subject of the estimates
with Admiral Beechey, as they had come, to a sort
of understanding as to the style of the building
and the character of the work, and all the details
of it. Hov.-ever, in the meantime. Captain Sullivan
was appointed the successor of Admiral Beechey,
and then the question came fo be considered with
regard to Phladda, Corran, and Macarthur's Head ;
biU, with reference to those in jiarticular, the
plans that we made out for those lighthouses were,
as regards materials and workmanship, the very
s.ame as the plans which had been executed under
the sanction of the Board of Trade. There was
no difference in their style or size, and those on
being sent to London were objected to by the Board
of Trade on account of their expense. It was sug-
gested that all the cut stone should be taken out of
them, for there was cut stone round the windows and
round the doors. It was also stated that all the cor-
nices that were in the rooms round the ceilings should
he dispensed with. The removal of the cut stone
made a dilierence in the estimate of .^bout 170/.
721. On each site?— Yes, and the cornices <,i
about 11/., making together about 180/. on each site.
After a great deal of correspondence the lights of
Macarthur's Head, Phladda, and Corran Avere ap-
proved, and, with this alteration they were executed.
Subsequently to that, the Iron Rock and Stour Head,
and Butt of Lewis, were also ordered, and the plans
for those were submitted to the Board of Trade ;
and, with reference in particular to the Iron Rock, as
has been already explained, that work has been
stopped cu account of the estimates being higher
than their lordships were disposed to s.auction. I
may ex|ilain that those plans which were submitted
are' exactlv the same in character and style in every
respect asMacarthur's Head, Corran, and Phladda ;
and the estimates, in fact, are made out exactly on
the same principles as the estimates for those other
works which had been executed within the last two
or three years.
722. llave you removed what they call the orna-
mental work from the estimates for Skervuiie ? — Yes ;
everything. And I cannot conceive how' Captain Suli-
van could say that these houses to which I refer were
more like gentlemen's hou.ses than lightkeeper's dwell-
ings, as he did in his evidence before the Mevchant
Shipping Committee. lie must, in my oi)ihion, have
made some mistake. The houses are simple brick
cottages of the plainest kind, with slated roofs, with-
out any cut stone at doors or windows, while the
interior is simply plastered, without cornices or any
kind of ornament, aud the woodwork is plain nd
simply varnished, and there is no paintwork em-
ployol. The Commissioners were asked by the Board
of Trade to restrict the estimate of Skervuile to
6,000/. ; and here, I think, it will be probably right
to sav that my brother and I have done all that we
could' to meet the views of the Board as to the matter
of keeping down the estimtites ; but after doing all
that we could we saw that the thing in the case of
Skervu'le was .simply imjjossible, and represented it
to the Commissioners, and as a proof of the impos-
sibility of it we referred to the neighbouring work
of !Macartluu'":. Head, v.-liicli had been sanctioned bv
the Board of Trade only a year before, which has a
tower, only 30 feet high, and houses only for Iwo
keepers, the whole of it on the mainland, the sanc-
tioned estimate for which was 5,700/. ; whereas this
work, which- the Conmiissioners were^ told was not
to exceed 6,000/., consisted of dwellings ashore
for three lightkeepers, and a detached tower, with
lightkeepers' accommodation also, on a rock three
miles from the land. We naturally thought that
there could be no difficulty in seeing at once that
such a thing could not be done, and so we reported ;
but we said that the only way of meeting the views
of the Board of Trade was to make on the rock a
timber erection ; and after making sketches and con-
sidering the thing, we found that we could make such
a timber erection lor a sum not exceeding 6,000'., in-
cluding the bouses ashore, and we so reported to the
Commissioners. However, the Board of Trade in
reply objected to the use of timber, and stated that
they had no objections whatever to the plans, but
they objected to the estimate, and that unless the
estimate coulJ be restricted to 6,000/. the work must
be abandoned. They also rei'erred to houses in Ire-
land, which thej' said had been built at a much less
cost than those estimated for at Skervuile. A cor-
respondence was accordingly opened with Ireland, and
it was found, from the data which we obtained, that
the Irish houses, as measured, taking the area of the
house accommodatiou, were actually higher than the
estimates v.hich we had given for those to be erected
at Skervuile, our estimate being 18s. od., and the
Irish houses 18*. 9d. per square foot. I understand
that the cost per foot for the North Foreland dwell-
ings was '25s. -id. ; so that if my information is
correct, the Scotch prices instead of being the highest
arc the lowest of the three.
723. Do you mean per square foot ? — Y'es. So
that in that respect it would a])pear that the Board of
Trade had realh' gone upon imperfect or inaccurate
data. We adhered to our opinion, that the works
conld not be executed under the estimate that we
had given ; and here I should like just to say, that
really an estimate is of no value at all, in fixing the
ultimate cost of a work, although it ought to indicate
to those undertaking the work th.e total cost of the
undertaking ; what 1 mean is, that an engineer's
estimate cannot regulate what the cost of the work
is to be. That is purely a contractor's question, and de-
pends upon -the view which the contractors take of
the site, and the capabilities of tiie locality. It is
th.e contractor's business to consider tl.at. In taking
such offers from contractors, the Board of Northern
Lights pursue the very same course which is followed
in all the public Boards with which I am connected,
and which is also followed by all the public com-
panies with which I have been connected as engineer,
and that plan is, that after the plans are made, and
the estimates prepared, these estimates do not go
into the hands of the contractors ; the contractors do
not see them, but they are ])ut in possession of the
])lans and the specifications, and then each contractor
for himself makes his own estimate of what the value
of the work is. Sometimes the contractor's offer is
exceedingly erroneous ; for example, the very last
tenders that we had for the masonry, &c., of a light-
house at Monach, ranged from 7,048/. to I7,c6o/.,
our estimate being about 8.000/.
724. {Ctipt. Bi/dcr.) Is it possible that any infor-
mation can reacli the contractors, as to the estimate
that has been made ? — No. I do not see that it is ;
nor if it were, could it in tlie least degree influence the
tenders for works of masonry in diflicult localities,
seeing that it :s open to competition, and that con-
tractors are numerous. But at all events, there is no
cure for it, and it is done with every work in the
kingdom. The problem, which, in jwint of fact,
the Board of Trade have asked the Commissioners
to solve, as to the Iron Rock, is neither more nor
less than to alter the physical circumstances of the
locality, seeing that they object to timber, for nothing
else will alter the amount of the estimate. I wish
further to state, with reference particularly to Cap-
tain Sulivan's evidence before the Merchant Shipping
Committee of last year, and in support cf what I
have already said, with reference to the views of the
15QUIEK INTO THE CONDITION' AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
179
Board of Trade regarding estimates, that lie tlierc
draw^ ^ comparison between a lightliouse at Harwieli,
proposed to be erected by the Trinity House, and the
proposed lighthouse on Holboru Head. -He states the
estimates of the Harwich lighthouse and buildings at
800/. and the api)aratus at 4001., being together 1,200/,
and that at Holborn Head, which he styles a similar
lighthouse, at from 4,000/. to 5,000/., and he ad-
duces this in pro >f of the greater expense of the
establishments, erected by the Commissioners of
^Northern Lighthouses. But it so happens that tl\e
two cases are not -^iisceptilile of comparisoii at all.
On writing to the Trinity House, the Northern Light
Commissioners were informed, that the estimate
for the lighthouse at Harwich was 1,000/. instead of
800/., as stated by Captain Sullivan, and that the
light was a small lixed light, the apparatus illumi-
nating 168 degrees of the horizon, the apparatus being
already in their i)ossessioii, and, therefore, not in-
cluded in the estimate.
7'23. Is there a tower ? — Xo ; at Harwich it is a
light exhibited from a window in the dwelling house.
The estimate for Holborn Head submitted by the
Commissioners is4,21o/., and this is for dwellings for
two light keepers ; for a raised tov/er 10 or 12
feet above the dwelling from which to exhibit tlie
light, this being necessary because the arc of illu-
niiuation is 22ij degrees ; a road of communication
to the liglithouse which is estimated at 5.50/. ;
the land at 200/. ; the revolving apparatus and
machinery for a Hashing light, and also 10 per
cent, for incidents to cover inspector's wages and
other contingencies. The only items, therefore, Avhicli
can be compared are the cost of the dwellings,
those in the case of Harwich being, as I have stated,
1000/., and those in the ease of Holborn Head being
12.j0/. The increase of 250/. is due mainly to the
additional cost consequciit on a tower being necessary
in order to illuminate the larger arc. That appears
to be the only item that can be compared in the
two cases, and they are estimated .seemingly yery
ne!;rly upon tlie same terms, instead of Vieing so
widely dilfijrent as has been represented. In proof
of the correctness of the estimate which we made
for Holborn Head, I hive further to state that when
tiie work was advertised for tender there were eight
otfers ; the lowest offer for the work, including
dwellings, road walls, &c., was 2,104/., being 48/.
below our estimate.
72G. Can you submit a list of the estimates for the
different, works executed by the Commissioners of
Northern Lights, and of the sums for which they
have been completed ?
Estimate
of
Actual
Messrs.
Cost of
AVork.
Stevenson.
£
£
\im\ lip-'.ithouse ...
5,500
4,D60
K;. :rar.i:; r'::i;bouse - - .
5,500
6,108
1 iv ( Mn:: ly li;;hthouse
4,500
4,462
L■^il;•ni li li_:l)tbouse -
11,500
9,176
bound of :^^uU liglithouse
5.000
6,202
Sounil of Islay lighthouse
6,500
7,437
Kantickhcad lighthouse
5,200
6,GG1
Bressa Sound liulithouse
5,000
5,163
Whalsey Skerries lighthouse -
2ii,S18
21,450
Unst lighthouse
27,500*
32,478t
.Stroma Skerries beacon
1,000
1,191
Vasa beacon - - . .
300
139
loch Inver beacon . . -
700
710
Pabba beacon
500
502
Calliach Stone beacon
SO
115
Tuesdale beacon - - _
400
313
Brander Eock beacon
160
119
Start Point lighthouse, repairs
SCO
::MuU of Kintvre lighthouse, repairs -
1,924
2,422
Sanna lighthouse, repairs
450
431
Duiiglas Head, alterations
500
530
Total
103,532
110,374
works, on which about 60 different contractors were
employed. They were estimated at 103,532/., and
have cost 110,374/., being a ditlerencc of 6,562/.,
which may be accounted for by additional work in
landing place and stair at North LTnst, not included in
original estimate, fov that work in our original estimate
was stated in our report of 9th April is'oo, to be only
a "_ general idea of its probable cost " in consequence
of its difficulty.The whole has been finished without
any legal question with any of the contractors. There
are seven lighthouses at iirosent in progress, which
have been estimated as follows, but he accounts not
being closed their cost cannot, as yet, be stated, viz. : —
£
- 4,240
A. Cunitigham^
D. S eienson^
Es,,.
23 Jan. 1861.
4,760
5,740
4,215
8,(i00
8,600
14,400
1,300
£
,9,700
.9,603
* Exclusive of landing place and stair.
T Inclusive of landing place and stair.
This list embraces ten lighthouses, seven beacons,
four alterations and repairs at stations, bcin" 22
Corran ....
Phladda ....
McArthur's Head
Holborn Head - - . .
Butt of Lcii-is - - . .
St. Abb's Head - . . .
Monach Isles - - . .
Sound of Harris Beacons
Estimated but not sanctioned.
Stour Head, lighthouse and road, 3 miles
Iron Rock Lighthouse - - .
727. Do you think it possible in this case of tender-
ing for a large engineering work, that there could be
any agreement between the persons tendering as to
the ]>rice to be ofiered, which might secure to them,
in rotation, the execution of expensive works ? I do
not tiiink that that is jiossible in this instance, and I
may state further, in corroboration of this, that all
the works referred to in the table have been let
for sums, which my own experience tells me are
just about the sums they ought to have been let
for. I know, for example, one of our works, Dcvaar,
which was done before we had anything to do
with the Board of Trade at all ; in that case the
contractor shewed me his books, and I was satis-
fied that he had lost 500/. by that contract. He
aslced me to bring it before the' Commissioners to see
whether anything could be done, and I did bring it
before them, but nothing could be done. The con-
tr.actor for the Butt of Lewis, now in progress,
offered, verbally, 1000/. if the Commissioners would
rid him of his contract ; and this offer was verbally
communicated to Captain Sulivan.
723. Are contractors, who the Commissioners may
suppose to have lost by their contr.acts, ever remuner-
ated for the loss ? — Never within my own knowledge I
thiuk with one exception. I may also add that the plan
of remuneratiug contractors, who have under estimated
their work, is certainly not a good one, as it only
holds out an inducement for "contractors not to
go into their offers with sufficient care, in the
hope that, if they have made a mistake, they
will not suffer by it. In other words, it is not a
fair competition ; there should be a bona fide under-
standing between the employer and the contractor
that his offer is the sum for which he is to do the work.
With reference to the acceptance of a tender, the
Commissioners have also had considerable difficulty
with the Board of Trade. In issuing advertisements,
the Commissioners invariably say that they are not
bound to accept the lowest tender, the obje'ct of this
is quite intelligible, it being to prevent people from
tendering who have no intention of finishing the work,
or who from want of experience have misunderstood
its nature, and it is too commonly the case for such
people to do so. However, instead of aciing upon that
principle, the Board of Trade always, in eugiucerin"-
works, have insisted that the Commissioners shall
accept the lowest tender, and this has given rise to
much correspondence and diflereuce of opinion. And
here I would state that in all my experience as an en-
gineer, I never kiiew any instance of public companies
or other Boards for whom I have acted, rejectiii"- the
opinion of their engineer as to the acceptance of the
tenders— it beinghis business — and his responsibility to
inquire into the necessary acquirements of the diflx-rent
offerers, and also into their experience and stability ;
in fact, their general reputation as contractors ; and to
advise accordingly. However, in some cases with the
IS'i
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIOXERS APPOINTED TO
A. Cuningham, J3,,5rd of Trade this li.Ts not been done ; for example, to
r> c7*'' t;ike an instance of a. very important and expensive
If. oterenson, , , i , i ' i ^ i ,»■
£sn ligl't, "e recomineuded that the second lowest otierer
ought to be accepted, for reasons which we specified,
23 Jan 1S61. as we considered that the lowest offerer had not ex-
perience in such works, and had taken so mistaken a
view of some parts of it, that we did not feel war-
ranted in recommending him to be entrusted with so
important a work. There were some of the items of
his tender which at once convinced us that ho had not
given a sufficient amount of utteutiou to the peculi-
arities of the work, and ail this we stated. The
Commissioners reconmiended the rejection of his
offer, but the Board of Trade, directed it to be
accepted. The contractor, however, withdrew his
tender, and we again recommended, that the next
lowest offer should be taken ; and, after further cor-
respondence, it was agreed to. Another instance I may
mention, where tenders were given, and where we
felt ijuite convinced that the amount of the lowest offer
would not suffice to purchase the materials. We repre-
Bented this to the Commissioners, and recommended
the third lowest offerer. Our motive was this : the
second and third offerers were very near in price ;
but the third one being resident in Edinburgh, and the
second one at a distance, we thought we should be
better able to secure the work being properly done,
having it so near our own eye ; but the Board of
Trade directed that the loiresf offerer was to be
accepted.
729. What was the difference between the ofier you
recorameuJed and the lowest ? — The third offer which
we recommended was 47/. 10s. above the lowest.
That lowest offer was, however, accepted, and in reply
the contractor stated that he had made an error in his
calculations, and he wished an addition to be made to
his estimate, which addition brought him above the
third offerer ; we again reported that the third
offer ought to be accepted, but the Board of Trade
directed the second offer to be accepted, and he got
the work.
730. Is there any other instance ? — Yes ; with
reference to another work, we recommended that the
second lowest offerer should be accepted, and repre-
sented that the lowest offerer had evidently committed
some error, as his price was too low. The Board of
Trade directed that the lowest offerer should be
accepted, but he afterwards withdrew his offer, stating
that he had made an error in his calculations, and
the second lowest was then taken.
731. Is there any difference in the time of lighting
and extinguishing in Scotland as com]>ared with Eng-
land and Ireland ? — Yes. The late Mr. Robert Ste-
venson, after consulting Professor Henderson, the
professor of practical astronomy, proposed to alter the
time of lighting and extinguishing from " sunset till
sunrise " to " the going away of daylight in the even-
ing till the return of daylight in the morning," and
that change was introduced after observations had been
made at a great many lighthouses on distant objects.
A table applicable to the site of each lighthouse is
calcidated and hung in the light room, stating the
times of lighting and extinguishing for every day in
the year; ami upon a calculatioii made we find that
the annual saving due to that alteration is about
1,600/. a year. In order further to show that the
Commissioners are desirous to effect economy in every
possible way, I may state that, in six condensing
lights erected in the Sounds of the Western Islands,
an annual saving of 384/. has been effected. In
this particular apparatus, which was the suggestion
of my brother, Mr. Thomas Stevenson, by using a
small burner, and condensing the rays in the direc-
tion of the greatest distance at which they require
to be .seen, you have, for a small expenditure of oil,
the light due to a larger lamp and apparatus. The
saving of 3S4/. is for oil and five |)cr cent, interest
on the amount of first cost save 1 which was about
1,000/. for the six lights.
732. {Chaiivvin.) Have you ever had occasion to
call the attcution of the ligtitkeepers to their not
burning sufficient oil ? — Yes. With regard to the
dioptric lights there is an instruction to the light-
keepers ; we know from experience that when that
instruction is acted up to, a certain quantity of oil
should be expended ; not less than a gallon in
five hours ; and when we find that it does not come
up to that, then the attention of the lightkeeper is
called to the fact.
733. Are there any instances of the lightkeepers
neglecting to burn sufficient oil ? — {Mr. Cuningham.)
There have not been many instances that it would be
worth remarking upon. There are certain of the
lightkeepers who we see do not burn the quantity, but
it is difficult to find fault with them, for they are apt
to think too much about it, and they may therefore
waste the oil. Where we find that they are decidedly
not burning enough then we call their attention to it.
In point of fact within the last six months that has
been done, for there have been one or two cases
in which the lightkeepers have not kept up a proper
flame.
{Mr. Stevenson.) I might add, to what Mr.
Cuningham has stated, that in each light room there
is a diagram showing the height of the flame to
be kept up ; and when, from the consumption of the
oil being low, the Commissioners have reason to
suppose that the flame has not been fully kept up
to the size they have had occasion to represent this
to the lightkeeper. When the mechanical lamp was
first introduced, indeed, the Commissioners gave a
premium of 1/. annually to certain lightkeepers for
keeping up a good flame, but the practice is not
continued now.
734. Do you believe that the flame is almost uni-
versally maintained at its very highest ? — Yes ; at or
very near it, that is my firm belief. It requires skill
as well as watching. A lightkeeper's duties cannot be
performed without a course of regular training, and
the efficiency of the light is due to the manner in
which these duties are performed. We find that
where the best flame is kept up the fewest glasses are
broken, and the fewest wicks used. The same lamp
glass has been known to last seven years, and the
same wicks five or six nights.
( Chairman.) What is the material j'ou employ
in the construction of your buildings ? — Before
the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses were
put under the Board of Trade, they had adopted
brick, on account of its being a cheaper material
than stone or iron, at certain situations : and they
had, for the same reasons, recommended that the
recent lighthouses .should be built of brick ; but
the Board of Trade have invariably suggested that
the stoue of the place might be cheaper, and more
advantageously employed than brick. We were of a
different opinion, believing that the brick would be
the cheaper material of the two. This is consequent
upon the great expense of opening quarries, and
paying damage to the proprietors, and other expenses
contingent upon qitarri/ing operations, as well as the
uncertainty of getting suitable materials even after
the quarries have been opened, the great object of
the contractor being, in all these situations, to do as
little work as possible on the spot, so as to save taking
men, and maintaining them there, for that is a great
part of his expense. On all occasions we have put
it in the option of the contractor to employ cither
brick or stone, and we have never got an ofl'er
as far as I recollect, in which the contractor did
not undertake to make erections of brick cheaper
than of stone, and that brick brought from consider-
able distances. I have further to state as to brick,
that the brick that we employ is not common brick, it
is composition brick, prepared for the purpose. The
Board of Trade have suggested to use common
Vjrick, but the Commissioners have represented that it
would be very injudicious to employ common brick,
more esjjecially as the extra cost of employing the
su])erior brick is only 60/. for each lighthouse and
buildings.
73j. Are there any communications going ou with
respect to the lighthouse at Holborn Head ? — The
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
181
last communication with reference to Hollorn Head
had regard to the estimate for the lighting aj paratus,
iron parapet and lantern, &c. which we estin.at;d at
l,13o/., tlie Board of Trade stated that they had
received a lower estimate of a similar light from
Mr. Willvins, and desired the Commissioners to alter
their estimate to 600/. ; on this being represented to
us by the Commissioners we at once stated that we
couhl not alter our estimate, for an engineer's esti-
mate is made out on the professional responsibility
and reputation of the engineer making it ; he cannot
make an estimate in any respect diflerent from
what he believes to be its true valne ; and that the
true plan by which to test Mr. Wilkins' estimate
would be for Mr. Wilkins to give in an offer for the
work when about to be contracted for, and then it
would be seen at what cost it would be executed. At
the same time we added that Mr. Wilkins had made
several offers for apparatus to be supplied to the
Northern Light Commissioners, but he had not as
yet succeeded in being the lowest offerer, and con-
sequently, had done no work for them, and further
that the plans and specifications were not ready for the
lishting apparatus for Holborn Head. The Board of
Trade then wrote, saying that they wished those plans
and specifications to be forwarded to them for further
consideration, when they were prepared, and that is
how the matter stands.
736. Mr. Wilkins, therefore, had never seen the
plans or specifications ? — No.
737. What is the character of the light at Eona ?
— A flashing light, of the natural colour.
738. The red shade then has been removed ?^
Yes.
739. Was Admiral Beechy acting for the Board of
Trade, when the character of that light was decided
upon ? — Yes ; he was their adviser.
740. Did he recommend any change ? — We recom-
mended to the Commissioners, and the Commissioners
to the Board of Trade, that it should be a flashing
light, showing white all round the Sound of Apple-
cross. That was submitted to the Board of Trade,
and Admiral Beechy recommended that it should
show red down the Sound of Applecross. This
was ordered to be done by the Board of Trade, and
we prepared the red shades for that purpose, and
afterwards, upon a visit by Captain Sulivan, before the
light was exhibited he conceived that it was better that
it should be white down the Sound of Applecross as
we had originally designed it, and accordingly the red
shades were ordered to be removed, and kept for some
other place where a red light was needed.
741. Then in this case who was the authority who
first suggested the change in the colour of the light ?
Admiral Beechey was the first who, to my personal
knowledge, suggested the change.
742. Under what section of the Merchant Shipping
Act 0^18.54 do you conclude that the Board of Trade
proceeded to give directions as to the colour of the
light ? — That I do not know. I have never studied
the Act myself.
743. {To Mr. Cuiiing/iam.) How does the light
appear marked on the Admiralty chart now ? — In
the chart, published eighteen months ago, it was
stated to be red, as originally proposed by Admiral
Beechey.
744. Have yon represented to the Admiralty that
that is a mistake ? — Yes ; that was immediately re-
presented.
745. Has it been altered ? — I cannot say whether
the chart has been altered or not.
746. Did they ever answer your letter ? — No, they
never did.
747. The Commissioners of Northern Lights are
in the habit of communicating with the Admiralty
upon matters relating to lighthouses ? — Yes.
748. Frequently ? — Not very frequently.
749. {Capt. Ryder?) Upon what kind of questions?
— It is more in relation to the changes. We revise
the list of lights every year ; but it was in the course
of going round in the Pharos that it was pointed out
that this light was described as red, and from the first -^^ '^^J''?*'^"!.
port we touched at I sent off a letter to the Ad- jy Stevenson
miralty, as the chart had just then been published ' Esq.
I have no doubt that it is now corre.ct.
750. Was the original plan of the Commissionera 23 Jan. 1861.
of Northern Lights with regard to the height of the
beacon at Cairnbulg carried out ? — (To 3Ir.
Stevenson.) It was originally intended to be higher,
and estimated at 1,000/., but by the directions of the
Board of Trade the beacon was cut down, and cost
720/. Diminishing the height reduces the cost very
little, for all the expensive work of foundations, &c.,
remains the same.
751. How many feet was it cut down? — About
15 feet.
752. Did the Harbours of Refuge Commissioners
visit the neighbourhood ? — Yes, they did.
753. Did they express any opinion as to the height
of that beacon ? — It was stated in evidence at Fraser-
burgh that it was considered to be too low ; and Cap-
tain Washington asked me at Peterhead why the
Cairnbulg beacon was not higher, and I told him that
it had been reduced by the direction of the Board of
Trade.
754. Has there been any light built at Kirkwall ?
— No ; not by the Commissioners.
755. Have they had any project before them for
building a light there ? — Not at Kirkwall, but in the
Sound leading into Kirkwall, on Hellyar Holm.
756. Has that project been adopted, and if not, why ?
— ( To Mr. Cuni7igham.) — It has not been adopted.
There was a very strong opinion expressed by the
Trade as to two stations ; one on Thieves Holm, and
the other on Hellyar Holm ; and the Commissioners
without expressing any very decided opinion, although
tliey stated their general preference for Hellyar Holm,
communicated those tv/o stations to the Trinity House
in the terms of the statute, to submit the matter to
the Board of Trade, and the Trinity House wrote back
and inquired about the shipping at Kirkwall. The
Commissioners sent them an answer to say that there
were 471 vessels, of an aggregate tonnage of 49,331,
and then came a replv from the Trinity House,
declining to submit the light to the Board of Trade.
The Commissioners replied to that letter, stating their
opinion that the Trinity House in refusing to submit
the plans to the Board of Trade had overlooked
their functions, as defined by the Act.
{Some correspondence was handed in.)
757. {Chairman.) This Commission have notified
to the Commissioners of Northern Lights that they
would have some questions to put about the difference
between the Board of Trade and the Commissioners
of Northern Lights in the matter of the Pabba beacon;
but as the whole of the correspondence relative to
that subject is now before the Commission, as given
in the evidence of Mr. Farrer, the secretary to the
marine department of the Board of Trade, this
Commission will not now trouble you with any ques-
tions on the subject ?---Very well.
758. In his evidence Mr. Farrer has done full jus-
tice to the engineers of the Scottish Board, in being
at the pains to state that the cost of the works upon
which they had been employed in general has ap-
proximated very closely to the estimates. {To Mr.
Stevc}ison.) — Have you any observation to make
about the Tuisdale beacon ?• — -We survej'ed the rock
and recommended a cast iron beacon in that situation
as being a proper structure, considering the exposure
and the nature of the rock. That rock is at the
entrance of the Sound at the Calf of Man, and is
exposed to very heavy seas, as I know from having
in 1835 attended an engineering work going on
for a whole season at the place. The Board of Tradj>
stated that they conceived the estimate for this
beacon, which was 800/., to be too high, and we
reported that we could not see that a beacon of
that sort could be reduced in height, so as to make
any notable difference in the estimate, and that the
only plan was to erect a malleable iron beacon ; at
the same time we pointed out that iu that exposed
182
MIXUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COSmiSSIONERS APPOINTED TO
A. Cunnlgham, Bituation, where the beacon would be submerged
^^9- somewhere about nine teet iu a very heavy sea, we
X». S^icnson, coy^eived that a malleable iron structure, from its
'^ vibration, was not so good as a cast-iron one.
2.3 Jan. 1861. "i^^- T'*^ msilleable iron beacons you make are
" ' much weaker than cast-iron ? — Yes, much weaker,
as they are comparatively light and cheaj) ; and the
Board of 'I'rade after much correspondence determined
upon putting up a malleable iron beacon ; but it is
quite an experimental structure, seeing that tho
malleable iron has not been exposed to such seas,
and it may be many years before it is exposed to the
maxinumi waves due to the exposure. In that case,
our opinion ss engineers, was overuled by the Board
of Trade.
7G0. {Capt. Ryder.) You said just now that be-
cause of the exposure to which the beacon would be
subject you recommended cast iron in preference to
malleable ? — Y'es.
761. (Cfiairman to Mr. Cunhigham.) In reference
to the correspondence with respect to Korth Unst,
already before this Commission, have any steps been
adopted to facilitate the communication between the
lighthouse and the shore ? — No ; the matters remain
exactlj' as they were when that correspondence was
reported.
7G2. Do you consider that the men in the light-
house are secure ? — If I did thero would be end of the
f|uestion, but I do not consider myself iu the slightest
degree responsible for their security.
763. {Capt. Ryder.) Is it of great importance that
a signal should be made and seen every day that aU
is well in the lighthouse ? — It is.
764. Do you "feel coutident that the present arrange-
ment is sufficient, and that the man who is directed
to go every day to look for the signal does so ? —
No ; and I have numerous complaints from the light-
keepers on shore of the toil that is endured in making
a journey of five miles every day over a very rocky
headland without any shelter. But in justice to the
lightkeepers, I have no reason tn doubt that they
do it. On one occasion, during the winter of 1S59,
one of the lightkeepers was nearly lost in tho sno-,v.
765. What was the estimated expense for tho
footway and sentry-box ? — 7oO/.
766.' What was the estimated expense of the c!ce-
tric commtinication ? — 600/. The Board of Trade
wrote and said that they would permit t!ie placing
of an electric communication, provided the Com-
missioners would dismiss their attending boatman,
which the C'lmmissioners declined to accede to, as
the boatman's services were required to convey the
lightkeepers backwards and forwards. Although the
island is 195 feet above high water, and the lower
50 feet more above that, the sea has on several occa-
sions passed in pretty large masses of water across
the top of the rock.
767. (Chainiuin to Mr. Stevenson.) In the state-
ment lately made by you it appears that jour
estimates for the lighthouse and buildings at Xorth
Unst were remitted to the engineer of Trinity House
for an oi)inion. AVere any objections made by you to
your estimates l-eing referred to a third party ?-—
Xot in that jiarticular case. Seeing, as is stated in
my evidence, that there was a difterence of o])inion
as to tho safety of the temporary buildir.gs to be
erected on Flugga, and seeing that there was no
experience whatever of the nature of the seas there,
we cordially agreed that iSIr. Walker should be con-
sulted, and we acted in that as we have done in all our
business whenever a question of difficulty has occurred.
We invariably readily ])roposo that the opinions of our
brother engineers should be taken ; and I may mention,
that in our business we have had occasion to consult
Mr. Walker, Mr. Kcndell, Jlr. George Kennie, Sir
William Cubitt, and Mr. James Leslie, of EdinbuTgh.
and other engineers in that way. But when Admiral
Beechey proposed, when these Sound lights we'e
to be erected, that our plans and specification
should pass under the review of another engineer,
we at once said to him, and said to the President of
the Board of Trade at the time, that we could not
agree to any such supervision, and that we supposed
that Admiral Beechey was not aware what was the
j)raclics of engineers in such matters.
768. I think it was stated to this Commission when
they were on the West Coast of Scotland that slates
had been tried for keepers' dwellings, and that it was
found impossible to keep the roofs in an ctfective state
in very exposed situations where slates were triete,
for they were being continually blown off", and slaters
had to be sent for from a great distance and at awk-
ward times of the year ? — In some sheltered situations
I have no hesitation whatever iu employing slates —
but we have stated over and over again to the Com-
missioners of Northern Lights that in such places as
Kona for example or Cantick Head, where the
lights are placed near the brow of a hill, the wind
acting on the face passes up and strikes the roof of
the house at such an angle that the water is blown
under the slates, and in such a situation as that we
cannot possibly keep the inside of the roofs dry. In
such situations I have no hesitation in saying that I
do not think it is judicious or advisable to employ
slates because the rooting of the house must within a
very short time decay from the constant damp caused
by the water passing under the slates. The comfort
of the keepers is aft'eeted if it goes to a great extent ;
it has not fortunately gone (o a great extent in any
of these buildings yet : but they are ueveitheless
damp and we cannot make them dry.
769. You require, do you not, a heavy coping of
stonework to keep lead down ? — Y'es ; the roofs are
llat and the lead is kept dov.ii by a coping of stone.
Wliere these leaden roofs have been applied, I think,
probably for 30 years, we have not had any trouble with
them ; hardh- any repairs have been required, and in
situations where, if there had been slates, v.-e should
have constantly been obliged to repair, which it would
be very difficult and troubiescme to do in such situa-
tions. At the Butt of Lewis when the Board of
Trade desired us to adopt slate they expressed an
opinion that it might be repau-ed. We said that
there was no town neai-er than Stornaway, some 30
miles oil, where any tradesman resided, and that of all
places in the world that was just the place to apply
lead. The Board of Trade on the.se recommenda-
tions acceded to it, and there is to be a leaden roof at
the Butt of Lewis, but at St. A'ubs Head, though very
exposed, they would not sanction it.
770. In their visits to the various lighthouses in
Scotland this Commission have observed that many of
tho lighthouses .and the buildings attached to them are
not painted white or whitewashed, as is the case gene-
rallv in England : can you give any reason for the
lishthouse towers and buildings in Scotland being so
froquentlv left of the natural colour of the stone, when
there can be no doubt that in those latitudes, and in
the ordinary state of our atmosphere a great white
jiatch permanently ]iresented to the eye by a white
li"-hthousc and buildings and walls is of the utmost use
to the mariner iu sailing along the coast or making
the land ? — I can give no reason for it ; I quite con-
cur that all brick towers at all events should be
painted white. Vrith reference to many of the
northern light towers I may say that from being
built of whitish coloured stone they probably do not
so niucli require it.
{Mr. Cuningliam.) The prevalence ot snow at the
most inclement seasons of the year is one great ob-
jection, and they would never be seen at all if white.
771. Would not that be a reason for their being
painted lilack or checkered ? — Y'es, of course ; but
we have no complaint of their not being perfectly
visible.
772. Are you aware v.hcther there is any intention
on the part of the Commissioners of Northern
Liahts to erect any permanent beacon on the Skairs
of "Cruden or Ilattray Briggs or Scotstownhead ? —
I think not. Tiie Commissioners have recently sub-
mitted to the Board of Trade a proposal which ema-
IXQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
188
iiated from tlio Adiuirahy to ciU ofi' (he li.srht on
Buchaii Xoss :iii<l Kiuuiiini's Head in such a way as
to clear Rattray Briggs, the arrangements for that are
now in progress, and if that succeeds probably the
whole ol)iect may be attained by mooring a l)uoy at the
end of the Briggs, whether it will ride there remains
to be seen ; they are to darken the coast line of light.
Messrs. Steyeusoii are now constructing screens for
that purpose, and it will be carried out in the ensu-
ing season. I am not aware that any application has
been submitted for marking the Skairs of Cruden.
773. I suppose it may liaye been reported to the
Commissioners of Northern Lights, or they may be
aware that many vessels do go on the Kattray Briggs
in the day time ? — Yes.
774. Then masking the lights of Kinuaird Head
and Buchan Ness is so far good that it will be of
service to mariners for navigation by night ; but you
think )'ou will be able to place a buoy of sufficient
size and sufficiently secure to guide mariners in pass-
ing along the coast by day ? — Yes.
775. {Captain Bi/ilcr.) What kind of buoy are you
going to ]iut there ?— ^^'e have yet to consider that.
77(3. {Chairman.) Is there any intention to place
such a buoy ? — Yes ; and a beacon has been spoken
of ; but the scheme has not yet been matured.
777. It has been already stated in evidence, in
the case of North Unst, that something like a
reproof was conveyed to the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses from the Board of Trade,
on account of their having taken the sense and
opinions of the passing trade as to the superior
recommendations of the site at Lamba Ness, pro-
posed by the Northern Commissioners, over the
site at North Unst, proposed by the Trinity House
and Board of Trade. You are aware that in the
early statutes giving power to the general lighthouse
authorities to erect a light, the very essence of that
power was made to consist in representations hav-
ing been made from those engaged in the passing
trade as to the necessity for a light in a particular
position ; do you suppose that this essential element
towards establishing a light has been at all abolished
bv the INIerchant Shipping Act of 1854, under which
the Board of Trade has found fault with the Northern
Commissioners for the course they took in this in-
stance ? — I do not consider that it is abolished ; but
it has fallen into disuse.
778. {Captain Ryder.) Do the Northern Commis-
sioners, before they suggest any lighthouses, seek the
opinions of the passing trade ? — The opinions of the
Commissioners are generally founded upon applica-
tions from the passing trade, which render it unneces-
sary for them to seek those opinions.
779. Opinions as to particular sites ? — Yes.
780. Under what circumstances was the opinion of
the passing trade solicited, with regard to the position
of the lighthouse at North Unst as compared with the
proposed site at Lamba Ness ?— With regard to a
remark made in a letter from the Board of Trade,
dated the 1st of March 1855, that the Commissioners
canvassed for the opinions of ship-masters on the
matter referred to, the following are the circumstances :
— The Commissioners did not ask any o))inions on the
subject until it was brought before them anew by a
memorial from the shipping masters of Peterhead,
pointing out the peculiar advantage of placing a
lighthouse on Lamba Ness, and it was remitted to
Mr. Stevenson to report on that memorial ; the
Commissioners then thought it their duty to ascer-
tain the views entertained on this subject in other
sea ports carrying on the chief trade with Greenland
and the North of Europe by communicating with
Aberd(!en, Frazerburgh, Dundee, Leith, and Hull.
This course, instead of licing unusual, has been
frequently adopted by the Commissioners with re-
gard to other proposed lighthouses, and the Com-
missioners in soliciting the opinion of the passing
trade were very careful not to show that there was
any diiference of opinion between them and the Board
of Trade, or what site the Commiesion^rs themselves
preferred.
lH\. Keferring to the abstract of the correspond-
ence with regard to the proposed erection of a light-
house at St. Abb's Head, wo have observed that the
Board of Trade disapprove of the proposal of the
Commissioners of Northern Lights to make a survey
tor the site of the proposed lighthouse. Will you
explain what survey was necessary in the case ? —
The first letter which the Commissioners addressed
to the Board of Trade was quite general, and the
reply stated that the communications should have
come through the Trinity House in terms of the
statute. The Commissioners answered that they
would immediately cause a survey to be made, in
order that they might ascertain the precise position
of the light to submit to the Trinity House and to
bring it liefore the Board of Trade, and the Board of
Trade refused to sanction the Commissioners making
such a survey. The consequence of this is, that
unless the Commissioners are authorized to survey,
in order to ascertain the site they would recommend,
it becomes impossible for them to make any recom-
mendations to the Trinity House to be submitted to
the Board of Trade, as provided by statute.
782. Since that correspondence are you prepared
to say that you have made any more suggestions for
sites ? — None ; since that correspondence the com-
missioners have made no proposals for new light-
houses, the sites of which had not been surveyed pre-
vious to that correspondence, but in regard to that of
Hellyar Holm, I may explain that that emanated
from memorials from different ports in Orkney, which
the Commissioners remitted to their engineer to report
upon, and having received that report, they trans-
mitted the substance of it to the elder brethren.
783. What steamers have the northern commis-
sioners now ? — The " Pharos."
7S4. What size is she ? — 250 horse-power and 500
tons over all.
785. Have they any other steamer ? — Yes ; another
steamer which is not in use, the old " Pharos."
786. She is under repair ? — No ; she is lying in
the docks at Leith.
787. Out of repair ? — No ; she is kept in repair.
She is lying in Leith docks, under directions to be
sold.
788. Could her services be usefully applied ? — I
think they might be, and I have directions at this
moment from the Commissioners to report to them in
detail upon that subject. I think that by dispensing
with an equivalent number of attending boats on the
west coast, and substituting the old "Pharos" to do
their duty, while there are numerous departments of
work that she could do, no extra cost would be
incurred.
789. Can you use the old " Pharos " without per-
mission from the Board of Trade ? — No ; we have
solicited that ])ermission, and it has been refused.
The employment of the old " Pharos " would be an
additional expense of about 1,700/. or 1,800/. a year,
but I believe the saving of boat hire on the west
coast would exceed that sum.
790. Do you inspect the lighthouses ? — I do.
791. Do j'ou visit each of them once a year ? — No ;
from their number I cannot overtake that now.
792. How often do you visit each lighthouse ? — I
visit each lighthouse at all events once in every two
years.
793. What portion of the year is occupied by you
in inspecting lighthouses ? — July and August, and
sometimes September.
794. Do you go alone, or do you go with the Com-
missioners ? — Sometimes with the Commissioners
and sometimes alone.
795. Do you think that such an amount of inspec-
tion as is made is suincient ? — With a competent stafT
under mo the amount of inspection might be sufficient,
but the lighthouses arc increasing so rapidly that I
think it would require a second inspector of Light
Eoom repairs. The present man cannot possibly
overtake the whole of the lighthouses in one year ; ho
cannot get at them in winter, and during the summer
Z 4
■1. Cuninnham,
D. Stevenson,
23 Jan. 1861.
184
MINTJTKS OF EVIDENCK TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONEKS APPOINTED TO
A. Cuninghuvi, season he ha? not time to overtake tlieni and to exc-
^^1- cute the necessiiry repairs at all the establishments, so
D. Stevenson, . .. • - . _ .. . .
23 Jan. ISGl.
that we are obliged to m.ake ii selection of lighthouses
for him to visit everv year.
796. What were your qualifications for inspecting
lighthouses ? — None originally ; I was educated as a
writer to the Signet, and in that capacity was secre-
tary of the Commissioners, but I had no education
which qualified me for discharging the engineering
duties of the department. My long service, however,
and frequent visits have enabled me to pick up a good
deal of information as to my duties.
797. What option was given you as to accepting these
duties ? — None ; if any option had been given me I
■would never have accepted tLem at the salary at
whicli they were imposed upon me.
798. Do the duties of Secretary and inspector in-
terfere with one another ? — Yes, to a^ certain extent
they do ; as during my absence my more legitimate
duties as secretai} are in a great measure at a stand
until my return.
799. (J/r. Gladsloiie.) AVhat are the various duties
of the Foreman of Lighthouse Repairs ? — He goes
round the various establishments with an assistant and
executes repairs upon the burners of the lamps, and
different things in the light rooms, and that occupies
his time, as 1 have ah-eady stated, constantly ; he
makes a regular tour.
800. Does he make any inspections ? — He as well
as the Superintendent have instructions to report
anything that they see out of order immediately to
me ; he does not make any authorized inspection.
801. Have yon adopted a uniform system of
buoyage in all the channels under your jurisdiction ?
— Yes, we have.
802. ( Captain Ryder.) Has that met with general
approval ? — Very general approval.
803. Have you had any objections made to it ? —
None ; except by the Trinity iJoard.
804. (Mr. Gladstone.) It has been objected to
your system of placing red buoys on one side, and
black buoys on the other, that the red buoys are not
to be distinguished from the black in twilight ; in-
deed I have heard it stated by scientific men that red
is not very discernible in a f\iint light : are you aware
of any practical difhculty having thus arisen ? — None,
for there has been no complaint whatever of the system;
I may mention that several improvements have been
suggested, but in consequence of the disapproval
of the Trinity House the Commissioners saw that it
i\'as of no use proceeding any further at present until
matters were brought into some kind of shape, in fact
until this Commission should have rejiorted. The
improvements which have been suggested are amongst
others the numbering of the buoys with large numbers,
BO that a man when he gets into a channel has only to
lower his boat and send to the buoy and ascertain the
number, wjien he knows exactly where he is. That
is one recommendation, but I have had no complaints
of the red colours with the exception of the conversa-
tion that I had w'ith Captain Sullivan, who approved
of the system of beacons and buoys being uniform,
but proposed to change the colours.
805. Have you made any experiments on Herbert's
buoys ? — We have had one in use for several years,
but we do not approve of it ; we find them ride
heavily, and they drag very much.
806. (Captain Iti/der.) Do they drag or break ? —
Both : 1 know that we have had to bring up a buoy
from its moorings and to put another one down ; that
is in the Firth of Forth.
807. (Mr. Gladstone.) Have you applied the same
system to beacons that you have applied to buov's ? —
No; that is a very difficult subject, to indicate by colour
on which side the Vjeacon should be passed ; we liave
in narrow channels adopted the system, for example,
iu Loch Fine.
808. (Captain Ihjder.) Are you the author of a
Code of Tidal Signals for day and night ? — Yes.
809. \\\\\ you be so good as to send a copy to the
Commissioners ? — Yes.
810. (Mr. Gladstone to Mr. Stevenson.) You em-
ploy in several instances revolving lights alternately
red and white, and on the side that shews red vou
place a larger number of burners : have you reason
to think that this obviates the ditiiculty arising from
the reduction of the light by means of the absorbent
red glass ? — Yes ; it is possible to equalize the beams,
for it was done at the Bell Rock, where experiments
extending over four years shewed, that as viewed from
Arbroath, 12 miles of!', there were only four nights
each year on which the white light was seen when
the red light could not be seen ; but by equalizing the
beams you restrict the power of the white light, and
in some situations it may be more advantageous to
adopt the more powerful white beam so that the light
may be sooner picked up at a distance, and the weaker
red beam be seen on a i:earer approach, when the
light appears red and white alternately. This is a
well-known principle widel}' recognized in lighthouse
engineering, in particular in the French fixed light,
varied by flashes and all such arrangements where
lights of unequal intensity are employed.
811. (Chairman.) When in Edinburgh last you
called my attention to a notice by M. Reguaud and
M. Degrand iu the '" Comptes Rendus," as to the pene-
trating power of red and white lights under certain
conditions, as far as my memory serves me it was
made out by those gentlemen that the conditions
would not be very difiicult, under which the red
might be made to penetrate under certain circum-
stances even beyond the white light ? — I believe it
to be perfectly possible, to make the red penetrate
further than the white ; but to cflect that you must
necessarily employ a very weak white light. The
statement that they make is that having a red
and white beam of equal intensity the red beam has a
greater penetrating power than the white beam.
812. What is the proportion of red which is neces
sary to give equal intensity ? — We have found at the
Bell Rock five to three, as formerly communicated to
the Commissioners. The five are 21 inch reflectors,
.and the three 2.j inch, the burners all the same size,
but it depends on the kind of medium employed.
813. What is your opinion of the eflect at the
horizon ? — I have no doubt that, at the horizon, in
some particular states of the atmosphere, the white
light will be seen before the red light, but practically
speaking, I think it is a red and a white light, and is
so seen for all practical purposes.
814. What is the proportion at Cape Wrath ? —
There the white beam is stronger ; but if the li^ht
now building at Butt of Lewis were made revolving
it would be necessary to equalize Cape Wrath,
which would then be regarded more as an iniier or
subsidiary light.
815. (Mr. Gladstone.) Have you any red and
white revolving dioptric lights ? — No. Hitherto no
red and white revolving dioptric lights, with one
great central lamp, so far as I know, have been con-
structed.
816. (Capt. Rijder.) Not even in France? — No,
not that I am a^\■are of. They have_/!r.rfrf lights varied
by red flashes.
817. (Chairman.) In the return sent to this Com-
mission from Edinburgh there is a report of yours
and your brother's, of experiments on red lights.
Have you made any further experiments since the
date of that report ? — None. We considered that we
had arrived at a satisfactory result, as to the best
method of producing a red light in a first class fixed
dioptric apparatus, and that it was unnecessary to
make any I'urther experiments.
818. (Capt. Rt/dcr.) That was on the best kind
of red glass? — Yes. By using bright red chimneys
of homogeneous gold ruby glass, for first order
dioptric apparatus, instead of panes of red glass,
which formerly were used, and applied to the win-
dows of the lantern, the objection to that being that
there was condensation between the red and the
white glass, and that interfered very much with the
light.
819. What, in your opinion, is the most powerful
illuminating apparatus for the exhibition of a re-
INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
185
volviug light ? — The best apparatus in use is ibe
Holophotal revolving apparatus, as exhibited at
2<orth Ronaldsay and Whalsej'.
820. Can you f'urnisli the Commissioners with any
statistics, showing the vahie of tliis Ilolophotiil
arrangement, in comparison with the ordinary catop-
tric or dioptric apparatus, the consumption of oil
being the same ?— Not exactly, but according to the
experiments and calculations we have made, we con-
clude that the upper and lower Holophotal panels on
each face of the apparatus are together nearl}' equal
in power to tlie lens, thus nearly doubling the light
in each flash, an increase which is very much greater
than that due to the corresponding auxiliary portions
of the catadioptric light, even in the most improved
form, the consumption of oil remaining the same.
821. How many intermittent lights are there in
Scotland ? — Three.
822. Is there not a necessary loss of light from
adopting this principle, and, if so, how much ? —
The intervals are 2^ minutes light and half a minute
dark, so that one-sixtli of the light is lost.
823. Was this method adopted for the purposes of
distinction only ? — Yes. Tlie light exhibited has the
same intensity as a stationary catoptric light, and is
thus preferrable to the fixed red as a distinction.
824. Would you now in any new works adopt this
principle ? — Not if it could be avoided, but still it is
preferable to a fixed red light ; and tliere is no doubt
that the intermittent is a distinction which shows very
well.
825. (C/iainnan.) Are the Commissioners of North-
ern Lights at all in favour, or have they considered
the propriety of introducing gas where practicable ?
— Yes ; that has been brought before them, and has
been considered, but the difficulties of establishing
a gas manufiictory at almost any of the northern
lighthouses is such as hitherto have rendered it im-
possible for them to adopt it.
826. Then I may assume that where it would be
practicable there is at present no objection ? — No
objection whatever.
827. Of course if the gas were not manufactured
specially for the lighthouse, but could be obtained
from a neighbouring source, it would lie chea])er
than oil ? — Yes, perhaps it would ; but it would be
necessary, of coarse, still to be prepared with] a lamp
in case of gas failing.
828. {Mr. Gladstone to Mr. Cmtingham.) Ton
have furnished the Commission with details of the
expenses of the ditfi?rent lighthouses in respect to the
cost of repairs and building ; the cost of the repairs
of the illuminating apparatus, the cost of painting,
oil and wicks, the keepers' salaries, and you have fur-
nished us with the total expenditure for each light-
house for 1858. Now, on comp.aring the sums of
those items with the total expenditure, I find a great
discrepancy; for instance, the average expenditure of
the first order of dioptric lights in Scotland I find to
be 380/., while the sum of the items is, on the aver.age,
only 263/. ; to what is the remaining 117/. due ? — •
There are various sums included in the total account
which are not included under any of the separate
items, such as rent of ground, allowances in place of
ground, boat attendance — a heavy item, and several
others which make up the ditierence.
829. ( Capt. Ryder.) ^Vhat is the expense of tho
management of the Scotch lighthouses? — In reference
to the revenue of the Board I make it to be about
2 per cent.
830. Can you give us the items ? — Yes. Salaries
of the establishment for ordinary management, sta-
tionery, &e. This statement has been made already
to the Commission in reference to Captain Sullivan's
evidence, that the expense of management by the
Commissioners was 16 per cent, upon their revenue.
831. {Chairman.) Does that include expenses for
collection? — I cannot imagine what is included
under the 16 per cent.
832. Have you got as a separate item the expenses
of collection ? — I think so ; but our expenses on this
head are not above 50/. a year. The collectors aie
I. A ;
now forced to collect the light dues without any A. Ciminrjham,
remuneration. Esq.
833. While on the subject of expense, from the ^- *''<''•<''«"".
length of time that you have been secret.ary to the
Commissioners of Northern Lights, you can probably
state to this Commission how nmch the correspond-
ence of your office has been increased in consequence
of the system established by the provisions of the
Merchant Shipping Act, and to what extent the office
is charged with the expense consequent on such an
increase of correspondence ? — The increase of tlie
cerrespondence has been very great, and probably
the correspondence with the Board of Trade itself
amounts to all the others put together, but the increase,
beyond the stationery, has cost the Board nothing.
834. (Captain Bi/der.) What power of interfer-
ence have the Commissioners in Scotland with the
local authorities, in the matter of lights, buoys, and
beacons ? — The Commissioners have power, with the
sanction of the Board of Trade, under the 394th sec-
tion of the Act, to compel any local authoritv to
remove or discontinue the lights ; and no local autho-
rity is to erect, or discontinue or remove any lights,
without the authority of the Commissioners.
835. Do you, under that clause, take a power of
inspection ? — No, we do not conceive that to be con-
ferred.
836. Do the Commissioners think that such powers
might be beneficially conferred upon them ? — The
Commissioners did think so ; and they proposed
clauses to the Board of Trade upon the introduction
of the first Merchant Shipping Act, which they de-
clined to adopt. I will send 3'ou the clauses.
837. Have you frequently lieen called upon to
exercise the powers which you say the Commission-
ers have under the Act ; the limited power of inter-
ference ? — We have had numerous applications from
local authorities for authority to exhibit their lights,
and which the Commissioners have sanctioned, either
with or without modification.
838. Do you know of any cases in which tolls are
levied for lights by local authorities, and where no
light is exhilnted ?— I think there are some cases of
tolls being authorized to be levied by local authorities,
who are directed by the Acts to erect lights, and
which is not done ; but I am not aware that any
specific toll for lights is authorized to be levied, or
which are levied without there being a light.
839- Does not the Act that you refer to, give power
to local authorities to place "their lights under the
control of the Commissioners for Northern Lights ?
Yes, by section 395, if any local authoiity fails to
obey any direction.
840. That empowers vou to take it from them ?
Y'es.
841. Therefoi-e their power is to be exercised
W'heuever the local authority fails? — Yes. They
have only to fail, and for the Queen on the applica-
tion of the authority to say that we are to take up the
matter.
842. Has this power been exercised ? — No.
843. In no case ? — I do not know that it could be
called the exercise of a power ; but we have arrsmged
for assuming the Douglas Head Light, at the Isle of
Man. Certainly, under those clauses, by arrangement
with the Commissioners of Harbours, and theBoard
of Trade have sanctioned a toll for the public light,
and we levy that toll.
844. H.ave j-ou any power under the Act, to oblige
a local authority to ]iut in an efficient state auv
buoy? — I do not think so. That question arose
the other day in the Solway Firth, where the Com-
missioners upon the occasion of visiting a light-
house there, were very much struck with the inade-
quacy of the buoys, and they applied to and obtained
the sanction of the Board to call upon the authorities
to put their buoys in a better state. It then .appeared
that the buoys were beyond the limits of their harbour
in the open sea, where they had no right to be placed,
and the Commissioners then said that the only thing
to do was for them to assume them. The Board of
Trade have decided that they are to be left alone.
Esq.
23 Jan. 18G1.
186
JlINUiES OF EVIDKKCE TaKEN BKIORK THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
A. Ciininghum,
Esq.
T). Slevens:ui,
Esq.
23 Jan. ISCl.
845. {Chairman to Mr. Stevenson.) Can you
state geuerally what the ditierences ai-e which
have arisen between the general authorities on tlie
character of the Hhu Vaal light ? — The Commis-
sioners of Northern Lights considered that it was
unsafe to sliow a light through the Sound, between
Oronsay and Islay, so as to open it, iu consequence
of the intricacy, slioalness, and hazard of the naviga-
tion. The Board of Trade took another view, and
conceived that it would be advisable to open up
this passage, and accordingly the light was |)laced in
such a situation, and at such a height, as to enable
us to do that. A plan was proposed for openiug up
this channel, and the matter was referred to the
Trinity House, aiul the Trinity House .agreed with
the Commissioners for Northern Lights that it was
not advisable to open up the channel as a navigable
channel, but they believed it wouhl be advisable to
show a light through this channel as a danger light.
The Commissioners remained of opinion that it would
be betier not to tb.row a light through that channel
at all, so as to run any chance of leading vessels
towards it ; but they said that now that a light was
erected there, and that the light was to be shewn, it
ought to be a distinct danger light, — a red light ;
the Trinity House .and the Board of Trade both
agreed tliat it ought to be a white light, so as to
show i'.s far as possible, and to warn all vessels of
their approacli towards this passage. The light was
accordingly arranged iu accordance with the direc-
tions of ^hc Board of Trade and the Trinity House,
and miide so as to rhow a white light through the
passage and a red light towards Colonsay, and the
no ices v.-erc drawn accordingly. The Commissioners
poinlel out that if the notice, as drawn, remained as
it was, that part of the red light would be seen over
ihe island of Oronsay, and might occasion inconveni-
ence or danger. The notice was accordingly altered,
and so tlie light remained. Subsequently to its exhi-
bition. Captain Dedibrd wrote to the Commissioners,
and to the Admiralty too, I think, to state that two
vessels had been misled by seeing this light over the
laiid. This wa.s represented to the Boanl of Trade,
and the Commissioners received directions to alter the
1 ight after its exhibi;ion, and to mask it, so that no red
lisrht should be seen over Oronsay ; that alteration was
made, .and the light was I'e-advertised. But, even as
exhibited now, it is not in accordance witli either of
the views held by the Commissioners, which were:
first, that the light should not be shewn through
that passage ; and, second, that if it were, it should
be red and not white.
84G. In the additional correspondence, regarding
Rhn Vaal, which the Secretary has placed before this
Commission to-da}-, there is a notice to m.ariners as to
the character of this light, in which notice it would
appear that the white light to the eastw!ird is to be a
leading light, .and the white light to the westward a
danger light. By whom were those instructions drawn
up ? — By the Trinity House, I believe.
847. Then is it the custom of the Trinity House
to draw up directions gener.ally as to .all lights,
whether under the Commissioners of Northern Lights
or Irish or English lights ? — No.
848. You have stated that the shewing of a white
light, for the purpose of opening up the passage,
originated with the Board of Trade ; where does it
appear in the .Merchant Shipping Act that the Board
of Trade have the power of originating any proceed-
ing ? — It originated in the form of a suggestion,
which I think the Board of Trade have the power to
make.
849. (Captain Ryder.) Are the Commissioners to
understand that the light, as now exhibited at l{hu
Vaal, carries out the wishes and intentions of the
Board of Trade, which was to light up the Sound of
Oronsay and invite mariners into it at night, and also
carries out the intentions and wishes of the Trinity
House, by acting as a danger liglit, to warn mariuers
out of tlie Sound of Oronsay, a:id is in direct oppo-
sition to tlie views of the Northern Commissionera
ulif^wina; a light through the .Sound of Oronsay, which'
they thought should be kept dark, and by being a
white light instead of a red one, as is the practice of
the Northern Commissioners in all other parts of
.Scotland ? — The only thing is that of course it is not
a leading light, inasmuch as they have distinctly
stated in their notice that it is a warning light, and
the Board of Trade have in point of fact, for the
present at least, agreed to the suggestion of the Trinity
House that it ought not to be a leading light but a
warning one, and so far the Board of Trade have de-
ferred to the opinion of the Trinity House as the light
now stands ; both having gone against the opinion of
the Scotch Commissioners.
8.50. {Chairman.) So far as it appears to this
Commission, the Northern Commissioners need not
have existed at all, so far as carrying out their yiewa
are concerned in this particular instance, for the Tri-
nity House and the Board of Trade have done the
thing for them ? — That is practically the state of
the case in the instance of Khu Vaal ; they altered
the site, they altered the height, and they altered the
character of the light, and they di-ew up the sailing
directions.
S5L {Captain Ryder.) Will you furnish this Com-
mission with a list of the principal works in which
j'ou have been engaged ? — I carry on business in
partnership with my brother. We are joint engineers
to the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses. W'e
have also acted for many years as consulting engineers
to the Board of Works at Newfoundland, and designed
and superintended (he execution of lanterns and appa-
ratus for six lighthouses for that country. We also
designed the appar.atus for the Horsburgh lighthouse
at Singapore, and are now advising as to the erection
of two lighthouses in India. We also act as engineers
to the Fishery Board, and have executed harbour works
lor that Board on all parts of the coast of .Scotland, there
being very few harbours in Scotland on which we have
not been employed. We acted as engineers for the
improvement of the navigation of the rivers Kibble,
Dee, Lune, T.ay, Forth, Fos.sdyke in Lincolnshire, and
others. We have .also been extensively employed as
harbour engineers both in England and Ireland, and
have been employed by the Admiralty, the Treasury,
the Woods .and Forest.', .and other public boards and
private companies.
Adjourned.
Statement by the Sherifl' of Ayrshire to the Koyal
Commission on Lights, &c.
I avail myself of the permission of the Commis-
sioners to give an explanation and statement of the
ScDtti.sh Lighthouse administraticm. which has been
the subject of severe and unjust animadversion by
Captain Sulivan, the nautical advi-ser of the Board of
Trade, in his evidence before a Committee of the
House of Commons on Merchant Shipping.
The general purport of his evidence is that the
Scottish Board is not qualified for discharging its
duties, and that in its conduct it has been the cause
of both serious expense and of trouble to the Bo.ards
as.sociated with it. A most unfavorable contrast is
also presented of the Scottish Board and its man.age-
menl with those of both England and Ireland, de-
scribing in p.articuli;r its rate of expenditure as 50
per cent, more than that of England, and 100 per
cent, than that of Ireland.
Perhaps the best general answer to this general
attack is to refer to the condition of the Northern
Lighthouses and of the establishment as they fell
under the observation of the Royal Commissioners.
If they were found to be inferior to those of England
and Ireland let them be condemned, but if cquah still
more if superior, the sweepins: condemnation of
Captain Sulivan can be regarded as neither correct
nor just.
2nd. In reg.ard to his special objections, the first
is as to the composition of the Scottish Board, as
consirtiug of lawyers solely in its .attending members,
who are called on to decide questions upon which
alone it is said a nautical man is competent to give
an opinion.
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BOITYS, AND BEACONS.
187
The Boiu-d, it may be mentioned, consists of the
the Lord Advocate and Solicitor General, the
sherifts and cliiel' magistrates of the principal mari-
time counties and cities of Scotland, and comprises
among its former members eleven out of the thirteeu
supreme judges.
The first answer to Captain Sulivan's remark is,
that if his criticism is just, this evil has been aug-
mented by the Board of Trade in injudiciously
depriving the Scottish Board of their salaried
engineer, who used to be present at every Board
meeting. AVith his great experience and intimate
knowledge of everything relating to Lighthouses,
Mr. Stevenson was an adviser equal at least to any
nautical man.
It may be stated that the Northern Light Commis-
sioners have never been insensible to the value of
nautical opinions, and that before being placed under
the Board of Trade they invariably, prior to erecting
a Lighthouse, took into consultation the most expe-
rienced navigators they could procure in cases of any
difficulty.
The objection of Captain Sulivan to the constitu-
tion of the Scottish Board is the more extraordinary
that it applies with even greater force to the Board
of Trade, of which he is the adviser, seeing that its
members are also civilians, with various and impor-
tant duties to discharge, and subject to such frequent
changes as to place them at great disadvantage iu
acquiring a sufficient knowledge of Lighthouse ad-
ministration. In eight years there have been six
Presidents of the Board of Trade, giving only an
average of 16 months attendance to each.
The constitution of the Board of Trade is con-
sidered to be one great cause of the evil and diffis-
rences which have arisen for the necessary conse-
quence of the various duties of its frequently
changing members is tliat a great deal too much
authority is unavoidably devolved on their naval
adviser, who, the Scottish Commissioners are given
to understand, transacts the greater part of the
business, giving orders in engineering matters out of
his sphere, and corresponding always iu name of the
Board. It is obvious if this statement be correct,
of which the Royal Commissioners may satisfy them-
selves, that it is an extremelj' inexpedient arrange-
ment giving the nautical adviser too much unacknow-
ledged jjower, and enabling him, when writing in the
name of the Board, to avoid a free discussion as well
as the publicity and consequent opeTi responsibility
for Ills individual management and correspondence.
It has always been felt an extremely delicate
thing to comment on communications uoniinally from
the Board, but which the Scottish Board believe to
be exclusively of the naval adviser.
The evil of an anonymous or undisclosed individual
exercising such extensive powers is so great that the
general opinion is that the control over the Lighthouse
Boards would be more properly entrusted to a special
British Commission or to the Board of Admiralty
rather than to the Board of Trade.
In the case of the Admiralty there would be a
mixed board of naval men aud civilians, all acting in
their own proper names, and with avowed respon-
sibility.
3rd. It cannot be admitted that civilians are unfit
to discharge their duties as Commissioners of Light-
houses. It may be conceded that they are not so
well qualified as naval men to point out in the first
instance the sites for Lighthouses and Beacons, but
on the other hand it is not a very recondite matter
to Aveigh and to decide upon the evidence regarding
sites when there is difference of opinion.
If, however, there is any force in the objection to
the competency of the Scottish Board, it applies even
more strongly to the interference and orders of the
Board of Trade through their successive naval advisers
in matters where neither they nor any other unprofes-
sional man can possibly have the necessary knowledge.
Reference is here made to their opinions and dic-
tation as to buildings, the plans and estimates, the
structures, whether they ought to be of masonry, iron,
or the like ; the materials, whether of stone, and the
A a
the roofs, whether Commissioners
of Aorthern
description of stone or brick iic
to be of lead or slate.
It is needless to point out how injurious to the
Board of Trade as a board of control and authority,
such dnterfeience in details must be. It is indeed
scarcely credible that the Messi'S. Stevenson, men of
undoubted eminence, aud at the very head oi iLei'
profession as lighthouse engineers, should in theii
own department be controlled and overruled, and
have their plans and works altei-ed by a single naval
gentleman.
Then, upon the point of expense. Captain Sulivan
iu his evidence censures the Scottish Works as more
expensive thaii either the English or Irish, aud in
proof of that quotes the expense of some Harwich
buildings for a light where there is no tower, and
contrasts the cost with the cost of a Scottish complete
lighthouse and all its appendages atllolboru Head and
he repeats the contrast in the case of a proposed
lighthouse on the most outlying of the Monacli
Islands, where there is neither stone, sand, lime, nor
even water, and no inhabitants.
There is evidently in such matters no one point of
resemblance. As well might the cost of the Harwich
buildings be compared with that of the Bell Rock or
Skerryvore Lighthouse.
4th. Some notice is now required of the special
difi'erences between the Board of Trade and the
Scottish Board, of which the two most important
instances relate to the Flugga, or North L^nst Light-
house, aud that of Whalsey, to which Captain Sulivan
in his evidence is understood to allude in terms dis-
paraging to the opinions of the Scottish Board.
In regard to North Unst, the subject is fully before
the Royal Commissioners, and need not be resumed
here, further than to say, that the Scottish Board
considered the site of Lambanness to be preferable
to that chosen for the Lighthouse, even though it
could have beeu constructed at the same cost,
and iu this they were confirmed by their engineer
and by the unanimous opinion of the shipping interest
of Peterhead, Aberdeeu, Hull, Leith, &c., whose
commanders of ships are the chief navigators of
these seas, and are of a class comprehending such
men as Scoresby, Penney, and others.
But the excess of cost of building on the site chosen
was more than 20,000/., the actual sum expended
being about 32,000Z., while JMr. Stevenson's estimate
for a light on Lambanness was 10,000/.
To a person accustomed to give due weight to the
opinions of those diftering from him, it would have
occurred as a more judicious course not to incur au
extra expense of 20,000/. (which would have sufficed
to erect two additional lighthouses), where competent
judges actually preferred the Lambanness site as
preferable in a nautical point of view, but it cannot
be disputed, that in a case where there were such
authorities on either side, it was a most unfortunate
instance to be selected as a proof of the actual in-
competency of the Northern Lighthouse Board.
oth. As to Whalsey, the dittereuce of expense
(above 8,000/.), was greatly in I'avour of the site
advocated by the Commissiouers. It is true that
Admiral Beechey's site was about 700 yards more in
advance, but it must be kept in view that the object
of this light was uot to point out any particular rock
or local danger, but to indicate the geographical
position of the great group of islands called the Out-
skerries of AVlialsey, and to enable vessels to give
them a large offing. Moreover, the tower on the
Inner Island as suggested by the Commissioners,
while answering equally well all the purposes of that
forced on them at an extra cost by the Board of
Trade, would liave opened up from its superior
height a larger space of sea. Ou both questions, the
Royal Commissioners have full evidence before tiiem,
and are the best judges of the controversy ; but it
does seem a strange conclusion at which Captain
Sulivan arrives, that the Northern Commissioners
are the opponents of economy, and the advocates of
useless expenditure. As au element for judging on
the subject, it may be stated that the sacrifice of cost
made in selecting the present sites of the two Ii<;ht-
L'qhtho
188
5IINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMSnSSIOXERS APPOINTED TO
Con missioners jjouggg jn question over those submitted by the Com-
of Northern jj^i,:;onci-s. is not less thau 50.000/. The additional
LijiMouscs. ^^^^ ^^^ buildin.ir is 30,000/., and the additional annual
expense of maintenance will be 600/. per annum at
Unst, and 400/. at Whalsev, which is equivalent to u
capitid sum of 20.000/. at "least.
tith. There is another lighthouse, that of Rhu Vaal,
in the Sound of Islayl regarding which great
differences of opinion have arisen on several points
between the Board of Trade and the Scottish Board,
in which the former seem to be clearly in error. The
whole of the discussion on this subject is also before the
Eoval Connnissioners, from which they can form their
opinion, and it is thought that they will not hesitate
in deciding that the change of site and consequent
raising of the lighthouse tower, at au extra cost of
1,500/!, so as to admit of being seen through the
sound, and its beingmade visible across to Oronsay, was
injurious, and that from the same lighthouse to shew
a "white licrht to indicate that one passage was .s.-ife,
aud that another was dangerous, has a great tendency
to mislead vessels.
7th. There has been a stop put to the erection ot
several lighthouses, viz., one on the Iron Rock in the
Sound ofJura, another on Holbornhead (though this
last is now conceded), a third on Stourhead in Suther-
laudshire, for reasons of the most unsatisfactory
character.
At Holliornhead the proprietor claimed compensation
for his ground, and that a road should be made from
the neighbouring harbour of Scrabster. He offered
a reference of the former point to arbiters, and the
Commissioners recommended the acceptance of his
terms to the Board of Trade. The Board of Trade,
however, thought the ])roprietor's demands were
unreasonable, and after a lengthened correspondence
on tliis subject, the erection of the lighthouse was on
this ground indefinitely postponed, the necessity for
the ifght having been "admitted. Surely this was a
great mistake.
After a delay of three years the lighthouse has
been sanctioned by the B"oard of Trade, and the
proprietor's claims have been virtually acceded to.
It has now been contracted for.
In regard to the lighthouse on the Iron Rock, the
reason tbr suspending it is equally groundless. The
necessity for a lighthouse has beeu admitted, and the
plans have been approved of, aud submitted with an
estimate to the Board of Trade, but while the plans
were approved of, the estimate was olyected to as too
hiffh, and the Commissioners were required to give
lower estimates. Messrs. Stevenson stated that they
could give a cheaper plan, of an inferior description,
but that they could not estimate the cost of the approved
plan at a les^ sum thau they had mentioned. Tho
Board of Trade reject the inferior str'jcture, but insist
upon lower estimates, and thus the erectiou of tho
lighthouse has been suspended upon the most insuf-
ficient ground. It is not the estimate whether high or
low. but the contract price which regulates.
Most people, when building, prefer to have full and
safe estimates.
When the high reputation of Messrs. Stevenson, as
lishthouse engineers, equal to that of any engineers
in the world," is considered, it is a singular mark of
distrust not to proceed upon their estimates, but
rather to leave for an indefinite time the coast unpro-
tected.
8th. Two recent acts of the Board of Trade are de-
serving of notice, as exercising an undue control over
the Scotch Board. On opening up the tenders
lately, Messrs. Stevenson recommended in two in-
stances that the lowest offer should not be accepted.
The Coinmissionrrs gave effect to their recommen-
dation, proceeding onthe ground in one instance, that
they were satisfied from the lowuess of the tender,
that the contractor must have made some serious
error in his calculation, and in the other, that they
did not approve of the contractor.
The Board of Trade altered the decision of the
Scottish Board, and appoinle.l ihe lowest tenders to
be accepted. What is tlie use of an cngiurer, if his
opinions on such jioints are to be disregarded .•"
After the contractors' offers were accepted by the
Commissioners under the direction of tlie Board of
Trade, the one contractor acknowledged havins; made
an error, and was liberated, while the other asked
leave to withdraw, which was granted by the Board
of Trade.
9th. One other topic remains relative to Captain
Sulivan's statement that the Irish buildings are
cheaper than those in Scotland. The subject was
slightly touched upon before, in regard to the cost of
the Harwich buildings, but the present remarks apply
to the general contrast between the expense of build-
ings in Ireland and in Scotland, which is represented
to be 100 per cent, cheaper in Ireland. Inquiry has
been made, and the report to the Board of Northern
Lights is, that taking buildings in localities which
admit of comparison, the Scottish buildings cost
actually less than those of Ireland. That result was
intimated to the Board of Trade, and was neither ad-
mitted nor denied.
Silence in relation to so grave an animadversion
was not the proper mode of disposing of it, aud tho
fact goes far towards settling Ihe complaint of im-
proper interference 'o}- the Board of Trade, or their
otticials.
In Captain Sulivan's evidence there is a statement
bv him to the effect of the accommodation given to
the lighthouse keepers being unnecessarily large as
well as fine in the workmanship. So far is that from
being the case, that the houses recently built with
three rooms and a kitchen, and without proper out-
door conveniencies are not sufficiently commodious.
Of this the Commission can form a judgment from
their own inspection. One thing at all events is
clear enough, that to describe these dwellings to be
like gentlemen's houses is more of the nature of a
figurative expression, than of evidence to a fact.
There is given in an Appendix a statement fur-
nished at the request of the Commissioners, by
Messrs. Stevenson on the result of the recent im-
])rovements in lighthouse illumination, which have
been made for the Board.
In conclusion, it may be observed that the great
object of the Board of Trade, or their advisers, seems
to be to consult au economy (it is thought a false
economy) in mere original outlay without due con-
sideration of the solidity and i)ermancnce of the
■works.
The Northern Lighthouse Board have ever been
studious of true economy, and as instances they may
refer to the avoiding the waste of light by the use of
the mechanical lam]) of Fresnel, insteadof tlie lamp
used in England and Ireland, and to the abridging of
tho daily period of illumination of lighthouses founded
on observations by their engineers of the precise time
when ihev become or cease to be visible, instead of
adopting the period from sunset to sunrise.
John" Chhistisok.
AVc concur in the above — •
George Dingwall Fokdyce,
Sheriff' of Sutherland and Caithness.
Thomas Cleghorx,
Sheriff' of Argyllshire.
E. D. Sandfori),
Sheriff of Wigtown and Kirkcudbright.
1 concur gener.ally in the preceding statement,
F. ijRo^vx Douglas,
Lord Provost of Edinburgh,
Note as to Improvements on Lighthouse Illumi-
nation peculiar to the Northern Lighthouse
Board, by which a saving of expenditure is
annually efiected.
Having been instructed by the Board to report on
these improvements on Lighthouse Illumination, by
which an annual saving is effected, and which are
believed to be still peculiar to the Northern Light-
houses, we now beg leave to submit the following
statement.
XQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
189
We do not think it necessary to do more than
allude to the introduction of the holophotal system, by
which the principle of total reflection was applied to
revolving lights, or to refer to other improvements
tending to increase the efficiency of the lights, as
those plans are now in general use. We ])ass on,
therefore, to the following annual savings which liave
been effected by the adoption of improvements which
are perhaps still peculiar to the Scotch Lights.
1st. By a system of tables furnished to each Light-
house, by which the unnecessary burning of the oil
during daylight has been prevented. The S3stem
(elsewhere adopted) of lighting at sunset, and keeping
the lamps burning till sunrise, occasions a needlessly
large expenditure of oil in our northern latitude.
During the long periods of twilight, more especially
in the summer months, there is broad daylight, which
not only renders Lighthouses unnecessarj', but even
though they were at such times necessary the light
emanating from them is not visible at any considerable
distance. The tables furnished for the guidance of
the lightkeepers are calculated for every day in the
year, and are based on actual observations which were
made at different lighthouses on the times after sunset,
when certain distant objects ceased to be visible. By
the adoption of this plan an annual saving results of
not less than 1,600/., representing at 5 per cent, a
capital sum of 32,000/.
2nd. B}' the adoption at Stornoway Bay of an Appa-
rent or Beacon Light, placed on Arnish Point, and
lighted by a strong beam of light thrown from a
lighthouse on the mainland, nearly the same efficiency
has been secured as if the tower had been erected on ^- Cumncjham,
Arnish Reef itself, which is a sunken ledge of rocks n i',"''' „
projecting from the shore into the iairway which leads Esq.
to the bay or anchorage. _^
The petitioners for the Stornoway Light were of 23 Jan. 1S6I.
opinion that the tower should be erected on the
Arnish Reef, but the apparent light has answered
every purpose, and a saving has in this way been
effected of at least 3,000/., which, at 5 per cent.,
gives an annual saving of 150/.
3rd. By the adoption of the plan of Jzimuthal
Condensing Lights at Kyleakin, Oronsay, Sound of
Mull, Carran Phladda, and McArthui-'s Head, a
great saving has been effected. The practical effect
of this arrangement is, that with a burner consuming
but a small quantity of oil, a light is obtained in the
only directions in which great power is required,
equal to a first order light. Taking the most limited
view, the saving, on the supposition that reflectors
were used to supplement a light of the common kind
in particular directions would amount to 3.S4/. Ms. ;
but as at four of the stations above named, there is
reason to doubt whether reflectors could (owing to
local peculiarities) be applied at all, the total saving
would amount to 8.35/. per annum, representing the
capital sum of 17,100/.
From the above statement it appears that the
Northern Lighthouse Board has, by the adoption of
improved methods of illumination, been enabled to
effect an annual saving amountinsr, on the most
moderate supposition, to about 2,000/., which repre-
sents the capital sum of 40,000/,
Friday, 1st February 1861,
Kear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hajiiltox, R.N.
JoHx Hall Gladstoxk, Esq.
Samuel Robert Graves, Esq.
Rear-Admiral William Alexander Baillie Hajiilton in the Chair.
Captain Bartholomew James Sulitax, R.N., examined.
852. {Chairman.') You are the professional member
of the Board of Trade ? — Yes.
853. How long have you been in that position ? —
Four years.
854. What do you consider to be your position at
the Board of Trade with respect to the management
and control of lighthouse authorities ? — I am the pro-
fessional adviser of the President of the Board of
Trade on all points that may be considered nautical
and professional connected with lighthouse autho-
rities, and pilotage authorities.
855. The Commission will be obliged to confine
their examination of you to this day, as time is
pressing, and they are desirous of presenting their
report to the Queen as soon after the meeting of Par-
liament as possible ? — As I have had notice only since
yesterday afternoon I have had very little time indeed
to go through the evidence* in order to be prepared to
answnv such parts of it as I feel require to be
answered.
856. With reference to your letter of last
Wednesday, requesting that you might be examined
by this Commission, it is right I should state, that it
has always been our Intention to examine you, but
we deferred doing so until the evidence from the
lighthouse authorities was in print, so that the officers
of the Board of Trade might see that evidence, and
have an opportunity of making any statement that it
might be thought desirable to make. If you have
seen that evidence, although you may not have
had much time to go into it, and have any obser-
vations to make upon that evidence, the Commis
sioners will be glad to receive those observations
now ? — J will confine myself to a few principal points,
as I really have not had time to make all the obser-
vations that I should have wished to make on the
evidence, and which I think are necessary. I will
begin with the evidence of Sir James Dombrain, and
will refer, in the first place, to question 145, which
relates to the fitness of the " Midge," schooner, for the
duties she had to perform.
857. Do you call her a schooner ? — Yes. It is
stated in the evidence that she is wholly unsuited for
the purpose for which she was intended, because she
could not tow the '■ Kish," light vessel ; and it is also
stated, in answer to question 147, that the Board of
Trade did know that she was required to perform
that duty, that is, to tow light vessels. I must give
first the most positive contradiction to that state-
ment, and I will briefly state what gave rise to this
vessel being built. The duties of the buoy service
had been performed by a small sailing buoy vessel ;
they required a new vessel, and without alluding to a
steamer at first thej' asked our consent to a sailing
schooner of 100 tons for the buoy service, and
exclusively for the buoy service; that was immediately
sanctioned, tenders were obtained, several of which
were sent in from good builders for a schooner.
Before any final steps were taken, — and in the first
instance, privately between myself and Captain
Roberts — Captain Roberts, either personally or by note,
told me that he should be very glad, or that the Eal-
0<rt. B. J.
Suiiva„, n.y.
The oral evidence of the three lighthouse authorities.
A a 3
100
MINUTES OP EnOENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONEKS AVPOIXTED TO
Ciipt. B. J
SuUvan. B.y.
last Board would, if they could get a small engine put
in the vessel, so that a small iiuxiliary screw vessel
miaht be had instead of a sailing schooner, in order to
facilitate the buoy service. After discussing it with
him, and thinking it a reasonable proposition, as they
had no steam vessel on that coast, and particularly
because I thought that a sailing vessel would be com-
parativeh' useless when the water was calmer and more
smooth, "which would be the very best time for
examining and shifting the buoys, I first spoke to
the President about it, and asked him to sanction an
increased estimate for a steam vessel instead of a
sailing vessel. Having arranged that this should
be sanctioned, application was then officially made,
which was of course sanctioned, and the first esti-
mates I think that we received from our own
surveyor, or from Caiitain Roberts — I do not re-
member which — were for 3,500/. for a small screw
schooner instead of about 2,000/. for a sailing
schooner. We asked them to try for tenders for
building this vessel, if they wished it, in Dublin, or
we would obtain them for them in London, and wo
offered them the assistance of our surveyor for the pur-
pose. This was principally done privately between
myself and Captain Roberts, who had come over as
nt^ent lor the Ballast Board ; but, on examination, it
was found that we could only, for the sum fixed ujion,
obtain a vessel of the second class, that although the
frame would liave been equally sound she would have
to be ])hiuked with inferior material, and would not
therefore have been a first-class vessel. Upon that a
requisition was made that an increased sum — from
3.500/. to 4,000/. — might be sanctioned, in order to
have a first-class screw schooni^r instead of a second-
class one. I should like to show the Commissioners
how perfectly wrong the statement was, but which
was apparently confirmed by the Earl of Meath, that
we refused the additional sum in order to furnish
them with a better vessel. I will just read one
sentence to show this : -'In reply, T am directed to
" acquaint you th.it their lordships have no objection
" to expend the sum of 4,000/. in order to obtain a
" first-class vessel."
858. {Mr. Graves.) What is the date of that
letter ?— The 31st October 1857. We go on to say
that tenders have been obtained from Mr. Langley, a
builder in London, and which have been the lowest,
who was ready to complete a vessel of that class for
about that sum of money. No other request, that I
am aware of, was ever made by them for a better
vessel. Every request relating to her was complied
with from the first — from a sailing schooner to a
steamer — and again from a second-class vessel to a
first-class vessel ; but throughout the whole there
never was the slightest allusion to her being fit for
towing light vessels. On the contrary, the buoy
service was alone alluded to ; aud I know that at thi^
time the City of Dublin Steam Packet Company had
a contract with them, which was never altered, to
tow light vessels with one of their steamers whenever
required ; and I was therefore perfectedly surprised
when I saw that an attempt had been made to tow a
light vessel with a little schooner of 25 horse power.
I'think that the Commissioners will see the very great
difference between a vessel being fit for the buoy
service, which had been previously done by a little
vessel of 60 tons, and a vessel that was fit to tow
light vessels in that sea.
859. It was before you becnnie the jirofessional
member of the Board of Trade that the Aigus Irish
steamer was sold ? — It was.
860. Then you cannot probably inform this com-
mission why she was sold, or answer the question that
we are desirous of having answered, whether it
would not have been the more advantageous course,
seeing that the Argus had been built and paid for,
and was peculiarly adapted for the service for which
she was intended, if the Irish Board had been com-
p(ill>-d to use her. and employ her for the pur))Os;'S for
',\liicli she was built, rather than that she should have
been sold at the end of 3 or 4 years at a sacrifice of a |
sum of 8,000/. or 10,000/. ?— Not having been en- |
gaged in the matter, I cannot of course answer posi-
tively ; but after I had come to the Board of Trade,
and an application was made by the Ballast Board
for a new steamer, irrespective of the Midge, for a
new large steamer; not knowing what had occurred
about the Argus, I gave a very decided opinion
that a steamer was even more required ibr Ireland
than for Scotland, as they have many more lights and
light ships, — of which the Scotch have none, — and
more buoys, and I recommended that the request
should be complied with. But when I spoke to
the ]iresident and secretary about it, I found that
tlu-y had had a steamer, and that she had never been
used for the purpose for which they professed to want
one, and that she had been sold in consequence
of suggestions emanating from their own body to the
President of the Board of Trade ; that of course
altered my opinion, and I could not then have re-
commended that those who having the steamer, and
had not used her, and who themselves suggested that
she should be sold, at a great sacrifice, should
again come to have a large sum taken out of the
Mercantile Marine Fund to supply them with a
steamer. With respect to the power that we had to
make them use their steamer,I doubtwhelher any such
power is given, as long as we could not show that the
lights were inefficient, or that some work had been
neglected ; our power has refei'ence to controlling
the expenditure, and as less was perhaps being ex-
pended Ijy the vessel lying there, altliough it pre-
vented their having a sufficient inspection of the
lights, I do not see how we could have interfered to
say how they should do their work ; for that certainly
would have been carrying interference far beyond
what has been strongly objected to as too much in-
terference. The only reason that I see we could have
given for it would have been that we had seen that
expense was incurred for work that this vessel might
have done.
861. (3/r. Graves.) You have stated that tenders
were made in London ; may I ask you whether those
tenders were received at the request of the Ballast
Board, or by the Board of Trade direct ? — So much
was done privately between me and Captain Roberts,
who came over here with their authority to act, that
we were really more assisting them. Our engineer,
and shipwright surveyor, gave them all the assist-
ance they could at the request of Captain Roberts,
both in designing the vessel and the engines, and ob-
taining contracts, and in inspecting the vessel when
built."
862. Were the tenders referred to received by you
direct, or did they go the Ballast Board in Dublin ? i.
— The tenders were obtained through our surveyor, |
I believe, and forwarded to the Ballast Board ibr
their consideration.
863. With reference to the Midge ; do you consider
her thoroughly adopted for a buoy vessel, for the
purpose of taking out buoys and replacing them ? —
I have always considered her so ; and when we con-
sider that the same work had been done by a vessel
of half her size, and therefore she has much more
room for stowage, and in carrying out buoys, in
addition to the steam power, which gave her a speed
of above eight knots, and she could go out in fine
weather when a sailing vessel would have been in-
efficient ; I think there is no doubt that she was fi:r
superior to anything they had had before, and per-
fectly sufficient for the purpose.
864. {Chairmnn.) You have just now spoken of
the engineer and shipwright surveyors as having
aided you in the specifications and contracts for the
Midge ? — Y'^es.
865. I think you mean that tliis connnission slioiild
understand that the management of lighthouses, and
lighthouse business generally, so far as the Board of
Trade has to do with it, devolve upon you ? — So far
INQUIRE INTO THE C0NI>ITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS,
19J
as advising the President on all practical points ; but
on points connected with the powers given by the
Act to control expenditure, he would have the advice
of Mr. Farrer and Mr. Booth.
866. Referring to what you said about your
engineer and shipwright surveyor; wlio would you
say you had to assist you in the business of lighthouse
nianagemeut at the Board of Trade ? — In connexion
with the lighthouse work, those persons do not apply at
all; it was entirely- an extra thing their doing this for
the Ballast Board. In connexion with the lighthouse
authorities we have only the opinions of their own
engineers to guide us. So far as it applies to light-
houses, I think we have means quite suflicient to
enable us to form an opinion upon those subjects that
we are called upon to form an opinion ujion : and I
believe that the lighthouse engineers would object to
their plans or estimates being submitted to ,any other
engineer.
867. {3Ir. Gladstone.) When a general lighthouse
nulhority proposes to change a catoptric for a dioptric
light, and applies to you for the requisite funds, what
determines your approval or disapproval ? — In all
cases that have occurred of that kind the question
for consideration has been whether that light required
to bs restored. If it was still a good light on the
catoptric principle, and did not require repair or res-
toration on that principle, I should not I'ecommend
that the expense of putting a new dioptric light
::hould be incurred. But I think there has bten
only one instance in which, on those grounds, we
Iiave refused. I think one Irish case. Those which
the Trinity House, and some which the Ballast Board
have asked for, I know have been granted imme-
diatel)'. From the time that I first came to the
i'.oard of Trade, and first studied and understood the
subject. I have been very partial myself to the dioptric
light; and in fact have not recommended the sanc-
tioning of one catoptric light since I have been at
the Board of Trade. On the contrary, the first thing
I did, after studying the subject, was to stop a
catoptric light that had been already ordered for a
colonial lighthouse under us, recommending that the
engineer should provide a dioptric light; and therefore
the feeling has been to encourage the dioptric light
everywhere, to sanction no others for a new light,
and to sanction no others when a change takes
place ; that is, not to make a change from a good
catoptric to a dioptric merely for the purpose of
making a change, if the catoptric light was still in
good order.
838. Then do you consider a dioptric light superior
to a catoptric light under all circumstances ? — I think
there are some advantages in it which make it desi-
rable to adopt it in all circumstances where a
large arc has to be lighted. If it was to light only
a narrow band of light in a channel I would still,
for the sake of economy, light it by a reflector
and a small lam]) ; but where a large arc has to
be lighted I think there is no question, from the
simplicity, more than the extraordinar}' power of the
dioptric light, that it is desirable to adopt it ; but it
is ]iarticularly so with fixed lights, because you
overcome the intermittent character of the fixed
light, consequent on your changing your position
from the focus of one reflector to the interval
between two reflectors. If you compare the
dioptric light with the catoptric fixed light, when
you ai'e in the focus of a reflector, I do not think
there is any superiority in the dioptric ; but the
advantage of a continuous equal light is so great
that I should never sanction its being applied
any longer to fixed lights. With respect to revolving
lights, I have no doubt that a good catoptric light is
better ibr the sailor, in some respects, than the dioptric.
The advantage of the slow revolution and the gradual
coming in of a fine large light, which shows longer
A ;
and goes out again gradually, I think, gives it a su-
periority over even the longest flash, as you must call
it, of the dioptric light. And were ons only to con-
sider that ]ioint, I think I should still prefer for Ihe
revolving lights, where a large number of reflectors
was used, a catoptric light. But when you consider
the extra expense of maintenance, and the simplicity
and facility of keeping clean the glass, instead of hav-
ing to polish the reflectors, I think that, on the whole,
I would decide to give the preference to the dioptric,
even for revolving lights. I observe that one witness
has endeavoured to create an impression that the
Board of Trade had rather discouraged the use of
dioptric lights, and I would wish to point the attention
of the Commissioners to a paper which was drawn up
by my suggestion, — after obtaining the opinions from
different Boards, — for the use of the colonies, in order
to endeavour to prevent their sending home any
longer for catoptric lights, and, therefore, giving a
decided opinion in tavour of the dioptric light ; and
it has been only in one case, I ihiiik at Cork,
where the Irish Commissioners could not show us
that ths light, as a catoptric light, was a bad one,
and was requiring repair or alteraticn, that we
refused the money to place a new 'dioptric appa-
ratus there. My remarks on this subject now ^^iil
save me from going into that subject again. The
Tory Island light was alluded to by one of the wit-
nesses, and that, I think, is another proof that the
witness must have quite mi junderstood the whole
thing, for he has made a great mistake. The Tory
Island light being a great sea light for the Western
Ocean, the change was sanctioned, I believe, to a di-
optric light almost as soon as the application was
made to us — at all events with very little delay— and
there has been, as there generally has been, with the
Irish Board, unusual delay in carrying it out, after
our sanction has been given ; but certainly no delay
has been caused by us, that I can recollect, in getting
the best possible light for Torj' Island. I may
state, in addition, that I should have hesitated much
longer in adopting dioptric revolving lights had we
only possessed the original revolving light of Tresnel,
as there was not on\j a loss of light in that light, but
a very serious evil, 1 believe, which I think has not
been sufticiently seen by tliose who fix on the character
of the lights, and I was glad to find that Mr. Stevenson
confirmed my opinion, which is, that alight should not
show a different character at different distances ; that
whatever the character is that is given for a light,
whether you see it first on the horizon or through a
fog close to you, that character should never vary.
I am, therefore much opposed to intermittent lights
fixed and flashing, which some of the French
lights, I believe, are. But the original dioptric Fre-
snel's light was an entirely fixed and flashing light ;
it gave, at short distances, a fixed light with a flash at
iutervals, and beyond a certain distance, or in a fog
at a short distance, you saw only the flash. When I
consulted Mr. Stevenson on the subject, he gave me
one instance of a vessel having been lost through
that very thing. Mr. Stevenson's beautifid holophotal
light having done away with that, and also increased
the power of the light in a considerable proportion,
has, I think, done away with the objection. There-
fore I have no hesitation, if the holophotal light is
used, in recommending always that a revolving light,
as well .as a fixed light should be dioptric.
869. Would you therefore veto any proposition to
put up a fixed and flashing light ? — Certainly, as far
as our power went of objecting to it ; but as no pro-
position of the kind has been made since I have been
at the Board of Trade, with the views which I think
are now generally entertained, I should doubt whether
any proposition of the kind would be made again. 1
believe that wc should confine ourselves to two lights
— a fixed light, if possible, and where for distinction
a revolving light was necessary, I would confine it to a
holophotal light — because, although Frcsnel's liihs
i4
192
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMIS^^IONERS APPOINTED TO
Cap
, jj J are all, to a certain extent, flashing lights, I think
n ay. it i^ best to consider them all as revolving lights,
— merely regulated by the diflerent intervals ; and, as a
I. ist">l. rule, the larger the lens and the fewer the lenses
on a circle that you have, where a quick flash is not
absolutely necessary, the better.
870. You said just now "'fixed if possible;" do you
consider a fixed light superior to a revolving light? —
Excepting in a iQW ]).irticular instances of per-
haps great sea lights, where the power of a flash
would be valuable, I think as a rule it -would be
better to have fixed lights only, where distinction
was not necessary, as, from the simplicitv and the
expense, they are decidedly pref. rable. But
there are some few great se:i stations, some
points that ships make when homeward bound, par-
ticularly on our south-west coasts, where, if the most
powerful revolving light could be put, without inter-
fering with the character of any lights near it, I
sliould, in those cases, put it in preference to a fixed
light.
871. Your objection would depend somewhat on
the length of the interval between the flashes, ])ro-
bably ? — I thinkthat if you reduced the interval much, —
that is, if you multiply the flashes, — you would also
reduce the power so generally, that you would lose the
advantage, for such stations, of a revolving light.
There is no doubt that any one of the large lenses, with
8 on the circle, gives a far more powerful revolv-
ing light than what would be considered first-class
flashing lights ; but in which the amount of light is
divided among 16, 24, or 32 lenses.
872. Would not the question of the period of the
interval of the light depend very greatly upon the
rapidity with which the apparatus turned ? — What-
ever interval is given to it (I am speaking of the
power of the light while it was showing), I believe
you lose a good deal of the power when you mul-
ti])ly the circular lenses to give a flashing light.
873. (J/r. Graves.) The great inferiority of the
Cork light has been very prominently brought before
this Commission, and it appears now that vou refused
to sanction its improvement by substituting a diop-
tric light. Will you be good enough to state what
steps were taken by the Marine Department of the
Board of Trade to satisfy themselves of the necessity
or otherwise, of that change ? — I have not liad time to
refer to the papers on that question, but tlie papers
will show the correspondence that took place. I have
not a doubt myself, judging from what we have done
in other eases, that we asked them their reasons for
wishing it to be changed, and that they did not satisfy
us that it was because the light was a bad one and
requiring repair or chauge,and therefore we refused it.
874. Has the Admiralty forwarded to the Board of
Trade any memorial from the Cunard Steam Companv
relative to the inefficiency of the Cork Light ? — I re-
collect a complaint of the liglit being made — not of
its deficiency, but of the light being neglected in
some way. My impression, judging oidy from recol-
lection, is, that on the occasion referred to it was not
any defect in the quality of the light itself, but that
there had been neglect.
875. May the Commission infer that no communi-
cation was made by the Admiralty to you on the sub-
ject ? — No ; I recollect a communication being made
respecting a Cunard steamer, on a certain ni<rht,
complaining of that light ; but I lielieve that tliere
was nothing in it to show tl:at the light wanted
change.
870. In vetoing the recommondation of the Ballast
Board on so important a subject, would you nil
consider it necessary to have personal observations
made on the subject, in advising the Bo.ard of Trade
to refuse its sanction, or would you simply act uptm
the reasons given for the change? — On the corre-
spondence.
S77. {Mr. Gladstone.) What are the descriptions
of illuminating apparatus which have been recentlj
put up in the colonial lighthouses under your juris-
dictiou ? — There has not been an but the dioptric
light s.anctioned for the colonies since I have been at
the Board of Trade. There were lights that had been
sanctioned and made, before I came to the Board of
Trade, that have been sent out since, and which were
too far advanced to be stopped ; but the only one
that was ordered and not too far advanced I stopped.
878. Have you confined yourselves to a fixed diop-
tric light, and to Jlr. Stevenson's holophotal revolv-
ing light ? — I think most certainly ; I am not aware
of any other class of light that we have put up our-
selves in the colonies.
879. What description of lamp do you employ ? —
The four wick lamp for the first-class lights with the
centre wick removed; but we have .adopted, instead of
the mech.inical principle for feeding it, on the recom-
mendation, I think, of ilr. Wilkins — .and I believe it
has also been adopted by the Trinity House — the
ordinary cistern for feeding the lamp by gravity,
which is more simple than the mechanical apparatus.
880. Do you have returns made to you of the
quantitv of oil which has been burnt ? — We have had
most perfect returns from the colonies in answer to a
form sent to all the colonies, not only as to those
lights we have put up, but as to all their own lights,
and I believe that those returns have been laid before
this Commission.
881. What are the instructions which you give to
the keepers about the quantity of oil to be burned ? —
All the lights that we put up .are entirely managed
by colonial authorities — we have none of them in our
own hands. They have had instructions similar
to those of the Trinity House sent out for their guid-
ance, and the management has been entirely left to
the colonial authorities. In some fc^Y instances, at
their request, we have sent them out competent per-
sons from England.
882. As far as you are aware the plan adopted is
the same as that of the Trinity House in such
matters ? — I think so. I should not feel so confident
al)Out adopting that mode of feeding the lamp in pre-
ference to the mechanical apparatus at home, but I
have thought it preferable for sending lights abroad,
where there would lie more doubt about getting per-
sons to repair tliem if the lamps got out of order, and
where perhaps the lightkeepers would not be so
good.
883. You have not eft'ected the s.ame saving of oil
as has been efti-cted in the Scotch lighthouses, by
lighting and extinguishing the lamp when the sun is
a certain distance beneath the horizon ? — I supposed
that the regulation everywhere was, that the lights
were lighted from sunrise to sunset. I can fancy that
in the much longer twilights of Scotland, particularly
in summer, a great sum might be saved ; but in the
colonies, ]).articularly those which are more tropical,
the change to twilight is so quick that it is not so
important.
»84. {C/iainnaii.) You have spoken of your po-
sition as guardian of the pecuniary interests of the
merchant ship])ing trade ?— I think the Board of
Trade is the guardian of the interests of the shipping
by which the light dues are paid.
885. Just so. As guardian of the pecuni.ary in-
terests of the merchant shipping, and considering the
necessity for economy in the application of the Mer-
cantile Marine Fund, do you con^ider that those in-
terested in the merchant shipping would object for
one moment to tlie expenditure of anj' reasonable suii.
of money to secure the best possible light, or that they
would not rather object to anything like parsimony or
economy, if the principle of economy were carried out
so far as to stand between the shipping and their
being supplied witli the best possible light that science
r:in ])roduce ? — I do not suppose that they would ever
object to such expenditure as you have mentioned.
Keither would the Board of Trade ever object to an
expenditure of that kind. The Bo.ord of Trade, I
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
19Vy
lielicve, liaa always acted on tliis ]ivinripl(' — that
where tlie etiicieiicy of important lights was coiK^erned,
no money question should be allowed to interfere. I
may mention two instances which gave I'isc to a
ditference of opinion, before I came to the Board
of Trade, with the ;Scotch Commissioners, as to
two lights in Shetland, the Whalsey Skerries and
North Unst. In both those cases, although at
a considerable additional expense, the Board of
Trade agreed with the Trinity House in placing
ihe lights on the most expensive but certainly best
stations for the shipping interest, that is, nearer
the outer danger, contrary to the recommendation of
the Northern Light Commissioners. And I think
that shows that where the efficiency of the light
and the safety of the trade was concerned, inoney
was not thought of as the most imjjortant point. It
has been only on points where the efficiency of the
light or its value to the trade was not for one moment
in question that attempts have been made to cut
down the expense. The next matter that I would
refer to is the Berehaven buoys. Upon tliat point Cap-
tain Ryder puts this question, — " Then, because men-
•' of-war frequent the harbours on the coast of Ireland,
" the merchant shipping is deprived of buoys ?" I
must say that he quite misunderstood the question if
that is his impression. The Admiralty apj)lied for
the buoys because large men-of-war were frequenting
more than ever Berehaven ; and so much was it a
question of men-of-war, and not of the general trade,
that one buoy in the harbour was on a 4-fathom patch
that nothing but a line of battle ship could touch ;
and we, is the guardians of the merchant shipping
interest, thought, as this was required for the fleet
frequenting Berehaven, it was fair, if not all, at
least that a great portion of the expense of putting
those buo3's should be borne by the Admiralty, and
not by the ]\Iercantile Marine Fund. And I think
that decision was perfectly right. But that because
the men-of-war frequented the harbour of Berehaven
the merchant shipping were to be deprived of buoys
is ipiite erroneous, and I cannot understand how
such an opinion could have been formed ; the
Admiralty would not provide the expense of the
buoys, or a portion of the expense, and the men-of-
war have been deprived of the buoys. But the
merchant shipping interest, I believe, had never ap-
plied for buoys there, and therefore they have not
been deprived of them. And when we think that
men-of-war have the benefit of all the lights,
without paying anything towards them, surely it is
not too much to expect that, where buoys are required
more especially for men-of-war in one port, that a
portion, if not all the expense of those buoys should
be borne by the Admiralty. And the principle has
been carried out in Portsmouth, where a portion of
the expense of the Warner lightship has been borne
by the Admiralty, as it is equally valuable to the
merchant shipping coming to the Motherbank and
to the men-of-war coming to Spithead. In the an-
swer to that question allusion is made to two buoys
in the Port of Londonderry, and a complaint is made
that we would not sanction those buoys being taken
under the Mercantile Marine Fund. I may state, as
a rule, that the principle is not to grant the expense
of harbour lights and buoys out of the Mercantile
Marine Fund. In Ireland, before the Board of Trade
had an)'thing to do with it, the Ballast Board had
lighted and buoyed a great many harbours, such as
would never have been done by the general fund in
England or Scotland, and an arrangement was made
that those should be maintained, but that no new
ones should be put down, except on the principle
that they must be in some way more or less beneficial
to the passing trade, as well as to the harbour.
Whenever the passing trade is so far interested that
a ])lace may bo used for refuge, we have .always
consented to a portion of the expense, and in some
eases all of it, being borne by the Mercantile Marine
Fund ; but if we granted all the. lights and buoys
I. B
required for the small Irish ports out of that fund)
we should be doing a great injustice to the general
trade, who would have to pay for this. And the
same observation applies to several other objections
made to our interference, in the evidence of the
Ballast Board Commissioners.
886. You have spoken of two buoys in the Port of
Londonderry ; you do not, I suppose, allude to the
Tuns buoy at the entrance to Loch Foyle ? — Yes.
887. Do you consider that the Tuns buoy is in the
Port of Londonderry ? — It is so far in it that it was
under their jurisdiction, I think. I now speak from
recollection.
888. Are you aware that some time back there was
an act of parliament, at least so I have been given
to understand, defining the limits of the Port of
Londonderry, and that the Tuns buoy, as I can well
understand, from its position, was excluded from the
port, and considered to be in the open sea, and that
therefore they had not a power to levy dues on ship-
ping entering the port to maintain a buoy beyond
their jurisdiction. And further, I would ask whethei
it is not the case that the Tuns shoal is a most dan-
gerous shoal lying in the way of vessels working to
the westward, aloug the north coast of Ireland, es-
pecially those seeking shelter, and so working under
head, as that shoal lies in their way ; and I would
also ask, if the Trinity House has a general
authority, and can buo}' the entrance to the Tees,
and support buoys which are purely local, although
they cannot be of assistance to the passing trade,
how it is that the Tuns buoy, which is now excluded
by Act of Parliament from its local place as belong-
ing to the Port of Londonderry, can be otherwise
considered as a buoy marking a sea shoal along the
coast ? — Without a chart before me, I should not like
to answer positively some parts of the question ; but
I am (juite sure that we, in deciding as we did,
adopted the general rule, and that my conviction was
at the time that they could not fairly be considered
necessary for the general trade, but were necessary
for the trade of the port. Whatever buoys the
Trinity House may have, under similar circumstances,
certainly if they were to apply to us now for any buoys
that were as much necessary for the entrance of a port
as I believe these to be, we should not grant them
out of the Mercantile Marine Fund. The next point
that I have to notice, is the question of the gun in the
Kish light vessel, and to that i-eally the same argu-
ments would apply as those which I have used with
respect to the buoy. I cainiot think a gun in the
Kish light vessel necessary for the passing and
general trade, and it has only been specially asked
for by steamers crossing between Dublin and Holy-
head. If a gun is only required for them, on the
same principle that it has been generally adopted,
they should pay for it, or the Post Office that they
have a contract with. In the case of the gun at
Holyhead, the Admiralty having jurisdiction in
Holyhead Harbour, we considered that they should
pay what we thought a fair proportion of the ex-
pense for the steamers coming to Holyhead Har-
bour ; but as much as the gun on Holyhead Moun-
tain might be valuable to vessels coming round the
Stacks, or coming up or down tb'^, channel in a
fog, we thought it might be fair to pay half
the expense out of the general fund, lieeause the
general trade would be partially interested. But,
with regard to the Kish light vessel, I cannot see
that the gun would assist the general trade at all ;
and I think it is possible that it might be mistaken by
vessels which were out of their reckoning in the
Channel coming from the southward, and, if it were
so, it would be very dangerous ; for instance, if they
mistook it for the Holyhead gun. No person having
the responsibility there should sanctioia the gun
unless a distinctive signal is made by that gun — I
mean distinct from the Holyhead gun ; and in giving
our sanction to its being put, which we have lately
done, provided the expense does not come out of the
b
Ciipi. B. J.
Sulwan, Ji.N
104.
MINUTES OF EVIDENCE TAKEN BEFOBE THE COJISIISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Capl. B. .1.
S„lir,m, Jl.\.
Mercaiitilc ^Marine Fund, wc liavo made a ooiidilion
that the gun shiilllie lired twice at short intervals ior
each signal, instead of once as at Holyhead, in order
to prevent the possiliility of a mistake ; and if the
expense is not borne by the Mercantile Marine Fund,
we ha^ e not the slightest objection. But that double
discharge will make it very expensive. The Holy-
head gun, with its single discharge, is a far greater
expense tiian any one would suppose The powder
costs from 150/. to 200/. annually, which would
of course be double for the Kish gun ; and that
it should be paid out of the general fund, by
dues levied on the general trade, which is utterly
uninterested in it, would certainly not be fair. And
therefore, although we did not oppose the gun
being put there if the parties interested, and who
want it will pay for it, we do object to its being
put there and being paid for out of the general fund.
889. (Mr. Graves.) The gun you are referring to
was applied for, I believe, two or three years back.
Did the application come through the Trinity House
to the Board of Trade, or direct from the Ballast
Board? — I tiiink that the applications have been
principally made from the Dublin Company. Some
of them ha\ e been made verbally by the chairman of
the Dublin Steam Packet Company ; but there have
been applications through the Ballast Board.
890. Did not the Ballast Board recommend that
a gun should be placed there ? — I think they did.
Thev certainly have required it, and we objected to
it at first on account of the great expense of the
guu, the gun being fired twice at every signal, as it
must be for safety, and to the ex)iense coming out of
the Mercantile Marine J"und. We have recently ob-
jected again to the gim being placed there at the ex-
pense of the Mercantile Marine Fund.
891. Is it according to the usual course of business
that an application of this kind should be received or
not direct from the Board of Trad(> without going
through the Trinity House 'f — I think it has come
regularly through tl»e Trinity House. I do not
recollect at this mcnnent, for I have not got the
papers; but we have had so many personal interviews
with Mr. Watson, I think, on the subject, such direct
communications, that I do not now recollect every-
thing that has taken place.
892. The reason why I ask you these questions is,
that I hold in my hand a letter from the Board of
Trade, in which it is stated, as their ground of
objection, that the guu on board the Kish light
ship might possibly be mistaken for the gun on
Hohhead ^Mountain. Has the opinion of tiie Trinity
House been taken on that ]>articular subject ? — Cer-
tainly if we were called upon for our opinion we
should give it without consulting the Trinity House.
If the Trinity House had sent, or whoever may have
asked for the opinion, if the opinion had been sent
tlirough the Trinity House, and communicated to
us by them, we should have conferred witli them on
the subject.
893. In tliis letter it is also stated, that steamers
crossiug the channel could not mistake one gun for
the other, but that vessels passing up and down the
channel might jiossibly do so if they were out of their
reckoning ? — Yes.
894. Does not tlmt lead to the inference that
passing vessels would take advantage of it ? — No ;
but that they might mistake it.
895. You are still of opinion that that is a good
objection to tlie gun ? — A good objection to the ex-
pense being borne by the Mercantile Marine Fund ; it
is no olijection to the gun if the expense is to be
borne by others, and a distinctive signal is given ;
but if you have two distinct guns firing, two signal
guns so near to each other, 1 think they would be
as dangerous as having two lights next to each other
of the same character.
896. There is a now fog Ijell l)eing made, is there
not, for that ship ? — We, from the first, stated that we
would sanction an estimate for any more powerful
bell that they wished to have. At thni time the
Trinity House had adopted the bell of Mr. Wilkins,
which was supposed to be much more powerful, and
^yo believed would answer the purpose of this light
%essel better, than the gong now there, and therefore
we otfered to sanction the estimate necessary for such
a bell, and to adopt it iu preference to the guns, and
an arrangement was made with Mr. Wilkins for
such a bell ; but we have since been informed that
further experiments with this bell had rather raised
a doulit as to its eflieiency in such a jwsition, and
while the Trinity House still think it would be useful
on shore for the lighthouses, the Ballast Board have
thought it necessary to give up the idea of the bell,
Mr. Wilkins having requested them to withdraw the
contract for it.
897. Then has the cancelling of the contract with
Mr. Wilkins for this bell been done at the request of
the Ballast Board ? — I think so. We were informed
by the Ballast Board that Mr. Wilkins had requested
them to withdraw the contract for the bell, as he
thought it would not answer the purpose.
898. At what distance has he stated in his first
estimate that this bell could be heard ? — I think three
miles.
89.9. Do you believe such a thing possible ? — Yes ;
certainly, from what we have heard. 1 believe that the
Trinity House are still of opinion that it wiU answer.
900.' {Mr. Gladstone.) 1 see that there are bells at
Poolbeg, Bailey, ."-ud Kingstown, near the Kish light ;
do you not think that it might be mistaken for one of them
if it rang a bell ? — It is impossilile that they could be
mistaken for this peculiar hell of Mr. Wilkins's, as it
was to be struck by a revolving hammer with several
blows per second, so as to make a continuous ringing
sound instead of the blows of the ordinary bell.
901. You would have an objection to an ordinary
bell under the circumstances in the Kish light ? — It
would of course depend upon what Ijells were near it,
whether it could be mistaken for any other.
902. There appear to be really three others veiy
much nearer than the gun at Holyhead ? — This bell
could not have been mistaken.
903. (Mr. Graves.) You stated that the principal
ground of your objection to this gun arose from con-
sidering that it should not be maintained out of the
Mercantile Marine Fund; do not the steamers that
pass from Holyhead to Dublin, carrying Her Ma-
jesty's mails, and a very large number of passengers.
daily pay toll for the Kish light ? — Yes.
904. Is it not therefore reasonable that any expen-
diture of a moderate kind, which would rather lessen
the risk to life and property and the mails, should be
borne out of the Mercantile Marine Fund, when those
vessels carrying the passengers and mails contribute
so large a sura annually for the maintenance of that
light ? — I cannot alter the o]iinion that I have given,
that the additional cost of a gun placed in that vessel
for two special lines of steamers should not be borne
by the Mercantile Marine Fund, which is principally
supported by the passing trade. I may take an
instance with regard to the vessels at the other end
of their journey — the Admiralty there pay a portion
of the exj)ense of the gun for their coming into
Holyhead Harbour, — for that is just on the same
principle.
905. Have you any idea of the amount of the light
dues that the mail steamers pay .innually for the use
of the Ki.sh light ' — No ; I have not. The funds are
now all amalgamated, so that it is almost impos-
sible to separate them ; we have no means of separ-
ating them ; without we got a special return from the
steam companies we could not ascertain exactly what
they ]iaid I may add that if out of the ^Mercantile
Marine Fund a gun is maintained in the Kish light, I
do not see how it could be refused for every light
vessel on the coa.sts of England and Ireland, and
which would enormously increase the expense. The
next point that I would refer to is to be found in the
evidence of the Earl of Meath. He illustrates what
IXQUIRE IXTO THE CONDITION AND JUNAGKMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYP, AND BEACONS.
liio
ho con.-iilers to be the improper refusal of the Board
of the Trade to grant money out of the IMercantile
Marine Fund, by the case of Copeland Island; and by
his evidence it would be supposed that the Ballast
Board and the "^'rinity House agreed that the light-
iiouse should be changed from one island to another,
and tliat the whole should be done at the expense of
the Mircantile Marine Fund, but that the Board of
Trade had refused the money contrary to the opinion
both of the Ballast Board and of tlie Trinity Board.
I may say that I entertain great doubts myself if there
would be the least advantage in making this change.
The light is now on the highest island, and although
a low island extends to the eastward of it some little
distance, and therefore vessels coming from the east-
ward would find the light best if on that low island,
yet vessels coming from the westward — for instance,
from Belfast towards Copeland Island — would cer-
tainly then have the light in the worst position for
them, and having it now on the island that is nearest to
them in their eastern course is, I think, an advantage.
Anotlter difficulty would be that the high western
island would mask the light in a certain direction ;
that is, to vessels coming from the westward. Therefore
I cannot consider the change desirable (^ven for the
trade of Belfast. For the passing trade there is no
question whatever that it is utterly unnecessary, and
so decided is the opinion of the Trinity House on
this point, that while they give their consent to the
change proposed, they do it on this condition : In a
letter to the Ballast Board, sent in the ordinary course
for the information of the Board of Trade, they
state that, " having regard to the alteration being for
" the benefit of the local trade, it appears to this Board
" that the expense of the change should be met by an
" increase of toll for the light upon vessels entering or
" departing from Belfast Lough." The Trinity House
have made their consent conditional on that, and in
taking the same view we are only acting iu accordance
with the expressed condition of the Trinity House.
Therefore the statement of Lord Meath is directly
contrary to the fact that we have set both tlfeir
opinions on one side. The next point I would refer
to is at Question 258, put to Lord Meath, as to the
money expended bj^ the Board of Trade for Irish
lighthouses. His answer is, " About 40,000/., in-
" eluding the Calf Rock, the estimates for which have
•' not yet been approved, although recommended by
•' the Ballast Board, amounting to 17,000/." I can
only say that such a statement by Lord Meath shows
that he can know nothing whatever of the proceed-
ings of his own Board on this subject. The facts are
these : On the 18th of March 1858, the plans and
estimates were sent to the Board of Trade for their
approval, and they were returned with the sanction
of the Board of Trade to the plans and estimates on
the 27th of March, within nine days of our receiving
them, with a request that tenders might inunedi-
ately be obtained to carry on the work ; the dwellings
were not included in those estimates and plans,' and
we suggested that they should be at once proceeded
with iu order that the works might be combined. No
reply was made to that communication I'or nearly
twelve months ; that is, from the 27th of March 1858
to the 10th of March 1859. On the 22d of March
we pointed out to them that the plans for the dwell-
ings required reduction. That is alluded to in
another place as a proof of how we unnecessarily
curtailed their desire to improve the dwellings of
their lightkeepors. ,The reduction was made on this
ground. They proposed to have six good rooms for
each keeper's dwelling — four being the outside num-
ber which had been given up to that time I lielieve in
any dwelling in England or Scotland, and I believe in
Ireland — and they stated their reason to be, not the
accommodation of the families, as Lord Meath states
here, but that " extra accommodation might be pro-
" vided for ship^\Tecked mariners if thrown on those
" shores." On the 22d of March we wrote to them
requiring them to reduce their plans to four rooms
B
each, the regular allowance that was made either in
Ireland or in Scotland, and we showed them that the
four rooms gave as large an amount of accommodation
as had ever been allowed to lighthouse keepers. I
may here remark that these are the very dwellings
that Mr. Stevenson calls in question in the compari-
son made with the Scotch dwellings as to the com-
parative estimates, and he states that the accommo-
dation was so much less and that my statement before
the Coimnittee of the House of Commons was wrong.
Before referring this back to the Ballast Board I
compared the amount of accommodation in Ireland
with the amount of acconniiodation in Mr. Stevenson's
dwellings, and I was quite satisfied that there was
the full amount of 400 square feet of area in each
dwelling as was given in the Scotch dwellings, and
it was on that ground that we refused them the extra
two rooms. Therefore I can positively say that the
accommodation in those dwellings was quite as great
when they were reduced, and when their estimates
were afterwards changed, as in any of the houses
provided by the Scotch Commissioners, and therefore
the comparison is a fair one, and not as Mr, Steven-
son said, made erroneously. The Ballast Board
Commissioners reduced their estimates from 2,000/.
for the four dwellings, which were equal to six dwell-
ings, to 1,500/. for the four dwellings when they
were reduced to the same size as the Scotch dwellings,
or 400/. per dwelling, a little more than half the
amount of Mr. Stevenson's estimates for similar
dwellings. The reduced estimates were sanctioned
by us in May 1859, two months only after first
receiving tho.se estimates, and from May 1859 as to
the dwellings and from March 1858 as to the buildings
nothing was sent to us in the shape of tenders, nor
was our consent asked to sanction any tenders for
proceeding with this work until the 22nd of November
1860, more than two years having been taken up by
the Ballast Board, or by their engineer, Mr. Halpin,
in carrying out what we had sanctioned. On the
27th November we referred them back for more
information, and we received that information, and
sanctioned their acceptance of tenders on the 10th De-
cember, so that the delay in carrying out the work rested
entirely with the Ballast Board, as their tenders were
not sent to us for approval till two years and a half
after we had sanctioned the plans and estimates.
I think it will be seen that this bears out what I
have stated before — that Lord Meath could not have
understood what had been done at his own Board on
the subject. A question was put by one of the
commissioners (question 254) to Lord Meath — " Had
" there been a local trade there it would have
" been benefited by that beacon. Do you think,
" judging from yotu- experience as to other applica-
" tions, that the Board of Trade would have con-
" sented to placing beacons there ?" By that it is
inferred that if the local trade would be benefited
as well as the passing trade, it would stop our granting
any outlay from the Mercantile Marine Fund. That
is totally erroneous — such an idea has never been
expressed in any communication that we have had
with the Ballast Board. If the local ti'ade alone was
interested, we should not sanction the outlay. But
however largely the local trade might be interested,
if the passing trade would be interested in being able,
by these beacons, to use the place as a port of refuge,
the application would have been granted as it was in
this case. At question 259 a similar opinion is ex-
pressed— " Are the commissioners to understand that
" the Board of Trade, as a general rule, have no
" objection to marking or buoying bays which maybe
" considered, or which may serve as harbours of
" refuge, provided there is no port inside them, but
" that they refuse always to light those harbours ?"
That is also quite an erroneous impression, and I
need, I think, only instance the case of Galway.
Although there is a harbour inside of Galway Bay,
two new lights, at a great expense, have been sanc-
tioned by the Board of Trade for better lighting th*-
b2
Cupl. B. J-
>-tr,van, K.N.
196
MINUTES OF EVIDEN'CE TAKEN BEFORE THE C05DUSSIOXERS APPOINTED TO
1 Feb. 1861.
Capt. B. .1. entrance to Gahvay Bay. wluch is iu itself a large
Suhvaii. li.y. port of refuge. They have been sanctioned and
built. Thev are on the Arran Islands, at the en-
trance of the bay, and it is only a second harbour light
in Gahvay Harbour itself that has been refused on
the principle that it was purel_v a local light for a local
harbour. The whole of the entrance to that bay and
harbour has been lighted at the expense of the JNIer-
cantile Marine Fund, out of which fund the harliour
light on Mutton Island is also maintained ; but an
additional local light in the harbour inside, not re-
quired for nndving the bay or for the purposes of
refuge in the bay, should not come out of that
fund.
906. {Mi: (h-avca.) Are not the lights in the en-
trance to the bay used, to a very large extent, as coast
lights ? — The passing trade round there is very small.
For the coast trade only ])assing, the one light on
Arran Island, as before, would have answered every
purpose ; but it was thought for that trade safeh' en-
tering Galway Bay for refuge, or for the trade of
Galway Bay entering it safely, that the two lights, one
at each passage, were much safer than one large cen-
tral light, and they were unhesitatingly sanctioned by
the Board of Trade, at the expense of the iSIercantilc
Marine Fund, and were just completed when I canu'
to the Board of Trade, I think in 18o(>. It was
before my time.
907. Is it not notorious that vessels seekiug shelter
run up till they anchor in the roads close to Mutton
Island in Galway Bay ? — One favourite place of shel-
ter is, I think, under the Arran Islands— they anchor
under the Arran Islands. But the light that was
asked for at Black Rock was entirely asked for, I
believe, ibr the new Galway stetuners; and certainly
the .Southampton Dock people might just as well
expect the Mercantile Marine Fund to light the
entrance to their docks, as at Galway Harbour for
the mail steamers to expect that the Mercantile
Marine Fund should place another light for their use.
908. Did not the Commissioners of Galway Harbour
express their willingness to allow a toll to be collected
for that light, if it were erected out of the Mereanlile
Marine Fund? — I do not recollect at this moment.
909. Did the Ballast Board reconunend that a light
should be placed there to be maintained out of the
Mercantile Marine Fund ? — I think they did. I can-
not speak jjositively about it, but the principle, I am
convinced, was perfectly right, not to sanction that
light out of the Mercantile Marine Fund — that is,
supposing that the priuciiile on which we have gene-
rally acted in sanctioning expense out of that fund
is a right one; because we cannot make a diU'erence
between one place and another. Question 284 refers
to keepers for rock stations : " How many keepers
"are there at the rock stations? — We have just suc-
" ceeded in getting permission fiom the Board of Trade
" to have a third man always present at a rock station
"where the families arc not able to be accommodated;
■' the onlv exception is the Black Rock in the entrance
" to Sligo, the reason being that it was too near the
'•main land." It appears to be inferred that there has
been a difficulty iu getting that from us. I may say,
as a rule, that we have always sanctioned three or
four men for rock stations, and I am not aware that it
has ever been objected to for a moment; where fami-
lies could not reside with them — there has never been
a difference of opinion, that I am aware of, ou the
subject.
The evidence goes on in this way : '• How long
"were you in obtaining that permission ? — I think wo
" have been applying for it for three years."
That is au extraordinary thing. I do not recollect
any queslion arising between us unless it has been a
question where a family has resided ou a rock or au
island, and to a liglithouse in that case, as a rule, we
should not saui'tion three keepers ; because there is
not a case, 1 believe, under the Trinity House in
which there are more than two keepers where the fa-
milies reside on the spot ; but if they arc cut off from
the dwellings by sea, I have no hesitation in saying,
that we should uot think of refusing au additional
keeper. I have not had time to look into this case,
but I do not recollect ever having refused a keeper
to a light for three years. I have nothing more to
say, I think, upon the evidence given liy the mem-
bers of the Ballast Board.
910. In July ]8o9, the Irish Board proposed certain
buoys for Lough Swilly ? — They did.
911. In August 18.)9, that proposition received the
sanction of the Board of Trade, excejit as regards
colours ? — It did.
912. .The Board of Trade, it appears, suggested
that one buoy should be checkered on each .side ? —
That I do uot recollect.
913. Did the Ballast Board propose any particular
mode of colouring those buoys ? — 1 think thev recom-
mended that they should !)e red ou one side and black
ou the other.
914. Did the Board of Trade make any alteration
'n the recommendation of the Ballast Board? — The
Board of Trade suggested that two dark colours
should not be used to mark the two sides of a chan-
nel, but that there should be on one a dark colour, and
a parti colour on the other, such as black, and black
and white, or red and rc<l and white, which would
better murk the sides of the Channel.
915. Under what clause in the Merchant Shipping
Act has the Board of Trade power to originate or
require the colour of the buoys to be changed
from the recommendation of one of the govern-
ing bodies ? The alteration was a suggestion
from us for their consideration — not exercising any
power to make them alter it, but a suggestion from
us for their consideration — whether this psu'ticular
class of colours for buoys would uot be better than
two dark ones. That suggestion was agreed to, I
believe, both by the B.allast Board and the Trinity
House ; but I believe, had we desired to exercise an
authority, we had perfect power to do so under the
Merchant Shipping Act, in one way by refusing to
sanction the outlay necessary for those buoys if
our views had not been adopted ; .ind we might,
although we have never exercised such power, have
gone still further, and directed what should be doni-
in placing those buoys, and they must have followed
our direetious.
916. {Chairman.) But although you say you have
never exercised that power — namely, the power of
directing what should be done ; jet you do conceivi
that the ^Merchant Shipping Act gives vou that
l)Ower ? — Certaiulv ; by the 406th section of tin-
Merchant Shipping Act, it is stated — "In order -to
" obtain such sanction as aforesaid, the Trinity
'• House .shall forward a copy of their notification.
'• accompanied by copies of all comraunications thai
'■ have passed between the Trinity House, and the
" said commissioners or corporation to the Board of
" Trade ; and such Board shall have power to give
" any directions they may think fit in relation to the
'• matters submitted to them by granting or with-
" holding their sanction, either wholly or partiallv.
'• and either with or without modification." The
407th section then goes on — " The Trinity House
■• shall forthwith connnunicate the direetious given
" by the Board of Trade, in relation to the matters
" aforesaid to the said commissioners or corporation
" and the said commissioners or corporation shall.
" upon the receipt of such directions, be bound to
'■ act in conformity therewith, and to do or forbear
'' doing anything thereby directed to be done or for-
" borne." That power has never once been exercised
inider those two clatises l)v the Board of Trade. 1
have before said that on these points the President
would have the legal advice of the Secretaiy and
Assistant Secretary ; and I should not venture to
speak decidedly on the subject did I uot know their
opinions.
917. Then you consider that the Merchant Shi])-
ping Act virtually puts an end to all independent
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
ly?
authority on the part of the three general lighthouse
hoards ? — Independent authorit}- certainly ; so far
that they have no power to act independently of the
Board of Trade in placing any new light, Ijiioy, or
beacon, or in doing anything, or in altering any
lighthouse, buoy, or beacon, that requires an additional
outlay. That must be applied for to the Board of
Trade.
918. Then their fuuctions resolve themselves
simply into that of being officers of the Board of
Trade ? — Xo ; I think not, because they originate all
new works ; luit let me say that this applies entirely
to the two Boards and not to the Trinity House ; the
two Boards having communicated through the
Trinity House. We have power to give instructions
to the Trinity House with reference to the applica-
tions of those two Boards. Those two Boards are
certainly not independent authorities so far as exer-
cising any independent power goes, for they are
subject not only to the objection of the Trinity
House, but also of the Board of Trade ; but the
Board of Trade has power to decide between those
two Boards if they should differ on any point.
919. Then would it not simplify matters if the
Scotch and Irish Boards were made de facto part of
the esfablishnient of the Board of Trade, because,
although you have said that they may originate
matters yet that may be said of the officers of every
department ; you may require this or that officer to
originate a scheme because it is his duty to do so ;
but if you are at the Board of Trade to be the over-
ruling power, it comes to the same thing, whether it
be originated in your own office, by your own officers,
or nominally in another office by persons supposed
to be distinct authorities ? — The Northern Light
Commissioners have, or the Ballast Board have, cer-
tainly hitherto always so far acted indi^pendently that
they have never been by any authcirity of the Board
of Trade compelled to do anything fliat they olijected
to do ; so far the power has never been exercised.
920. Would you say that that applies to the action
taken in the case of the light at Rhu Vaal ? — The
character of the light at Rhu Vaal was altered
certainly, liut by the opinion of the Trinity House
and the Board of Trade conjointly on a purely
nautical question, which nautical question there is
reallv no person competent to give an opinion upon
in the Scotch Board.
921. But I think an opinion was given on the sub-
ject bv the surveying officer on the station ? — There
was ; but I am quite convinced that he was wrong,
and the Trinity Brethren who were there and myself
quite concurred on the point that the Scotch propo-
sition was entirely ^\Tong. There was some little
diffiijrence at first between us as to which would be
the best plan. I differed in one respect from the
Trinit}' House, but I eventually agreed with their
opinion, and I am quite convinced that no persons
having the responsibility of fixing the character of
that light could, doing their duty and understanding
nautical matters, have left the light in the way it was
projjosed to be left by the Northern Light Commis-
sioners. The facts are these : a channel seven or eight
miles distant from that light has dangerous rocks in
it, and the question is, should that light be made use
of to warn vessels from running into that danger or
to guard them through it, or, on the other hand,
should it be left dark, and should vessels be allowed
to run on these rocks within the range of the light
wliich they are denied the use of. I was perfectly
astonished to find that any proposal of the kind
could be made, and more particularly by a nautical
man. I think I can illustrate the point very clearly
by taking the case of the Scilly Islands. For many
years the St. Agnes light was the only Scilly Island
light, and vessels bound up channel, making Scilly,
had a dangerous reef of rocks to avoid, six or
seven miles seaward of St. Agnes light, on cer-
tain bearings, and, according to the Scotch Commis-
B
sioners view of the case in that dangerous direc-
tion the St. Agnes light should have been darkenedj
and should only have shown a light in the direction
that a vessel could have approached it safely. Now,
would any one for one moment have taken the
responsibility of darkening the St. Agnes light over
the Bisboiis and Western rocks of Scilly, or would
tliey not have said it is important to have a light
showing as far as possible over those rocks, in order
that by its bearing a vessel might know her danger
and haul out in time to avoid those rocks. Now,
on that hinges the whole question. I am convinced
that no sailor, who really iniderstood the question,
would say that dangers seven miles from the light in
the exact direction that vessels are likely to approach
it, are better left dark than that a bright light should
be used, if possible, to guard them from the
dangers.
922. Was not it a question of the colour of that
light ? — The first question is, a light at all,
or darkness. The next question is, supposing it
was allov.'ed that the Scilly light should warn vessels
from those western rocks, seven miles off, should that
be done by colouring the light over those rocks
that would reduce its extent of range one third,
or should it be made to show as far as possible over
those rocks. I have no hesitation in saying, that
99 seamen out of 100 would say, let us see the
brightest light as far as possible over those rocks,
instead of a red one, as the rocks might be
sometimes guarded at a distance of a mile or
two beyond them by a bright light. If that
light was a red one it might only show to a
mile or two inside them, and so vessels might
get on the rocks for want of seeing the red light
when a bright light would have saved them.
Then there is a third question. Suppose a passage
for a ship through those rocks, would j^ou use
that light, not only for a warning liglit, in order to
clear them, but would you endeavour to use it,
so that if a vessel could not haul up in time to
avoid them it should enalile her to take a safe
passage through them ? Now, in this case, the
passage through them was two or three miles in
width, and if a red light had been shown alone it
would have often left the rocks outside the light,
when a bright light might have enabled a vessel to
haul up and weather Oronsay. But my own view
was, that while the danger should have been guarded
against with a bright light — that is, that a bright
light should be shown over the dangerous lines of
approach — the clear central channel should be left
with a red light, because while a vessel was in dark-
ness outside the red light she would be in perfect
safety ; if she saw the red light she would be in per-
fect safety. But the danger would be guarded by the
most powerful light, and she would soonest, in thick
weather, see the light that would save her. If you
adopted the red light as the danger light you would,
in the case of a distant danger, often throw the
bright light in the clear channel, where it would be
less important, and leave the danger unguarded by the
red light. Whereas, if you guard the danger by a
bright light, you ensure, at all times, the greatest
protection in the direction of the danger. If the red
light was obscured at a certain distance, a vessel in
darkness would be in safety, and if in danger would
have the most powerful light to guard that danger.
If the danger is quite close to the light, so that the
comparative range of the red and the white lights is
unimportant, it may be a question whether to make
the red a danger light ; but certainly it would in-
crease the danger where that danger lies at a dis-
tance of some miles from the light. We have instances,
I think, of the red light marking the clear channel ; on
the Irish coast there is one leading inside the Cope-
land Islands. Harbour lights are often red, and if
a principle is to be laid down not to be departed from,
then I would certainly adopt a bright light for a
b 3
Capt. B. J.
Sulivan, R.\.
1^
MINUTES OF EVIDE.VCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMHISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Cap'- B. J.
Salicaii, J{.X
danger liglit, aiul a red light for a safety light ; be-
cause, while one might lead a vessel astray daiigcr-
oush', the other could not; aud, therefore, as there
was a good light uear this channel, although I would
have warned vessels against using that channel, had I
had the sole responsibility of lighting the channel, I
would have placed a bright light there only over the
dangerous rocks, and then Iiave had a red band ol'
light in the clear channel.
923. Have you not, in point of fact, assumed that
very responsibility, in having the light according to
your own wish in this respect, ditferent from that
which was proposed by the Scotch Commissioners ? —
No ; certainly not. The Board of Trade have san'--
tioned the plan proposed by tlie Trinity House, which
Board therefore shares the responsability, and which
is a plan that makes the light a warning light, but
which does not act as a leading light through danger,
if necessary.
924. Still the fact remains the .same ; although, as
you have stated, you have not overruled these two
Boards, yet, in this case, there would seem to havo
been an exception ? — In this case, with the conseiit
of the Trinity House, or in supporting the view of
the Trinity House, we certainly have overruled them
in the character of this light. I may also say that
before I came to the Board of Trade, in the same way
with the Trinity House, the Board of Trade had
overruled the Scotch Commissioners on the position
of those two lights in Shetland that I previously
alluded to. But, by saying that we had not overruled
those Boards, I meant that we had not exercised that
authority, under the 406th and 407th clauses, which
I think we had power to do — to make them do a
thing which the Trinity House and the other Board
conjointly had differed from the Board of Trade ujion.
925. You think that you were still acting within
your authority when the Board of Trade overruled
the Commissioners for Northern Lighthouses in the
selection of the illuminating apparatus to l>e used at
the Butt of Lewis ? — That was again a question of
the character of the light, and I have not the slightest
doubt that the Trinity House and the Board of Trade
have adopted the rigiit distinction. To show this, I
will state, as a rule, that it would be desirable to have
revolving lights and tixed lights alternately on the
coast ; and as Cape Wrath, the next great sea light, is
a revolving light, the Butt of Lewis, under ordinary
circumstances, should be a fixed light, particularly
as there is no outlying danger, aud as it is a light
that vessels can boldly run for ; therefore there is
another reason why it should be a fixed light.
When I first thought that the Butt of Lewis should
be a fixed light the Mouach lighthouse was not
yet decided upon. I had already marked a position
somewhere on that west coast for one more light.
when asked by the President of the Board of
Trade what more would be watited to complete the
lighting of the coast. Therefore I knew that a
light, that ought to be a revolving light or flashing
light, would come somewhere midway on that
western coast, which was another reason why the
Butt of Lewis .-liould be a fixed light. Another
reason was, that the light that would come next again
to the Monach light, although an intermittent light,
is so likely to be mistaken for a fixed light, but never
can be mistaken for a revolving light. If a fi.xed
light had been |)laced on the Monach group we might
have had two lights near each other that might be
mistaken. When a man sees a light for two min\ites
and a half not varying he may not take the trouble
to look for the short interval when it is darkened,
but he may have satisfied himself that it was a fixed
light. He could not mistake a quick revolving
light for Bnrra Head, but he might mistake Barra
Head for a fixed light. The corresi)ondencc will
show that that oj)iDion was expressed to the Trinity
House before they had decided on the character of
those lights, and they immediately acquiesced in that
view. They agreed with us that a revolving light
for Monach, aud a fixed light for the Butt of Lewis,
were the best.
926. When you state that it would only be over
the Northern Coramissiouers and the Ballast Board
that you would be likely to exercise the absolute au-
thority given to you under the 406th and 407th sec-
tions of tlie Merchant Shipping Act, yet some such
authority seems to have been practically exercised in
the case of Godrevy, because the Trinity House had
selected a site originally, aud that was not the one
finally adojjted by the Board of Trade ? — I can
assure the Commission that this is quite a mistake.
It is true that eventually there was a difi'erence of
opinion between tlie Trinity House and the Board of
Trade, and the Board of Trade exercised an authority
under the power given to them, of not granting the
money for what was required, for a more expensive
site. So far as we have a control over the money,
we have a cei'tain power ; but so far was it in
reality from • that site having been selected by the
Board of Trade contrary to the opinion of the Trinity
House, that the papers published on the subject will
show a totally different state of things. The facts
are these : the Trinity House, in January 185.3,
forward a number of memorials for the light in ques-
tion to the Board of Trade, and they state that they
will give their o])inion upon it when the committee
has examined the site. The memorials consist of
eight from all the ditferent ports in the west of Corn-
wall, where the trade is interested in this light, and,
without exception, those memorials ask for the light
on CTodrevy Island, where it now stands, or one in a
still worse position, on the mainland, and not one of
them asks for a light on the Stones. The Trinity
House having sent their Committee to examine into the
question forward to the Board of Trade the report of
that Committee in July 1855. That Committee
having discussed the question of the site, both on
Godrevy and on the Stones, come to this conclusion ;
" That the erection of a lighthouse on the former (tho
" Stones) would be an undertaking whicli, even if
'■ practicable, would require a larger outlay of money
'• than would be considered comp.atible with the object
'• in view, and they are of opinion also that the site on
'• Godrevcy Island will indicate the immediate vicinity
" of the ' Stoues,' with sufficient ju-ecision to warn
•• vessels approaching the coast off the danger. In that
•• position it will also be most valuable to vessels steer-
•' ing along the coast, .and particularly to those bound
•■ iuto or coming out from St. Ives or Hayle, as a leading
" mark through the safe channel between Godrevy
" Island, and the southernmost ' Stone.'" They also
state — " Under all the circumstances, therefore, the
•' Committee resolved unanimously to recommend the
" Court to adopt the site on Godrevy Island as the
•• most suitable for a lighthouse. They .are of opinion
" that a tower of moderate elevation will be suHicient,
•• and they trust that the facilities afibrded at St. Ives,
" or llayie, for carrying on the work will enable the
" Corporation to accomplish it at a reasonable outlay,
" and within a short period of time." Now, nothing
can be plainer than that, after considering the whole
question, the Tiinity House came to the conclusion,
and recommended to the Board of Trade, that the
light should be put on Godrevy Island as the best of
the two positions asked for by all the memorials ; and
if the Board of Trade had, without any further
discussion, approved of that suggestion, — which I
allow I should havV" recommended to have been done,
— then the light would have been exactly where
it is, on the recommendation and responsibility of
tho Trinity House alone, sanctioned by the Board,
and no question of error as to that position would
ever have been raised. But, before sanctioning that.
Admiral Beechy raised a question, by a minute of his.
as to a further consideration of the practicability of
putting it on the Stones if possible before sanction-
ing what might be an inferior position, and the
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF IJGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
199
<|uestion wiis referred to tlie surveying officer of
the neighbourhood. That led to more investigation,
and the result was, that it was ascertained that
if the liglit could be erected there (for there was
some doubt even to the last whether it would Ijb
practicable), it would be done at a cost of something
lil^e 50,000/.. instead of about 8,000/. in the other.
Tlie result of tliat was, that the Board of Trade de-
cided to adliero to the first recommendation of the
Trinity House. In that decision, I confess, after
visiting the spot and going cai"efully through all
the opinions, I quite concurred, and I will go still
further, and say, that even if there had not been that
difference of expense, or <any doubt about the practica-
bility of it, for the sake of opening the small channel
inside the Stones, I would have preferred putting the
light in the present position. I have consulted seve-
ral masters of coasters — I think three on one occasion
in St. Ives and Hayle — and they all three of them
told me that for their coasting trade, and for
steamers, which always use that channel, a light is
nuich betler on Godrevy, to ecable them to use that
channel at night than if put on the Stones. I can
(juite understand that, and I believe that for over-
.sea vessels the light is quite near enough the danger,
and for the advantage of keeping that channel open
for the coasting vessels by night, I should have de-
cided the disputed point as it has been decided, under
any circumstances. We have heard of no accidents
of any kind since the light has been erected on God-
revy.
927. You will conclude, I imagine, that my reason
for putting the question was as a sequence to the
answer given to the Question 429, by the deputy
master of the Trinity House ? — Yes ; but I think it
is impossible that any one can dispute this fact, that
if the Board of Trade had not existed as a con-
trolling authority over the Trinity House, and they
had been left entirely to the memorials and their
own decision, the light would have been in the very
same spot as it is now. I may add, that the differ-
ence of opinion which arose with Admiral Beechey
and the Trinity House was as to whether the light
raiglit not have l)een put on St. Ive's Point, and
made a leading light past the Stones. The Trinity
House objected, .and Admiral Beechey at last coin-
cided with them. I think that in that case the
Trinity House were right, for I would much prefer
putting the lighthouse where it is ; but at the same
time, as there was a doubt about the site, it was
a cpiestion that should have been opened and dis-
cussed.
928. With reference to what has just passed, I
■would ask j'ou whether you are aware that the
Board of Trade, as exercising that authority which
you have just spoken of, have any fixed principle
or rule as to the placing a light, if it be possible,
on the most extreme point of danger to be guarded?
— Most certainly, as a rule, they would prefer, as
they have in two cases in Scotland, to put a light
as near the danger a.s possible. Had the Stones
been a continuous reef extending from Godrevy
Island, I should have recommended, if practicable,
regardless of expense, that a light should have
been put on tlio Stones ; but that case is entirely
altered when the navigable channel used in pre-
ference Ijy the coasters exists so close to the
light that they can now pass it quite close, and be
sure that they are iuside of the dangerous rocks.
I will now proceed with mj' general remarks.
In answer to Question 404, " Is it the case that
'• the Board of Trade requires the Trinity House
" to furnish tliem with the specification.?, in all
" instances, for ilhimiuating apparatus ?" — The de-
put}' master of the Trinity House says "Yes." This
is a mistake on tiie part of Admiral Gordon. The
plans and estimates were sent for our approval, but
I am not aware of our ever having asked the Trinity
House to send us their specifications before we .ap-
B
proved. We have on two or three occasions, when
we have been engaged in colonial lighthouses,
asked !hem to send us their specifications for our
assistance in framing specifications for colonial light-
houses. Admiral Gordon .says, in answer to 410, that
he thinks the general estimates for the year should
be submitted only to the Board of Trade, and not the
special estimates for the difTerent outlays. Now,
supposing that the Board of Trade is to exercise the
control given to it by the Act of Parliament, it would
be impossible to take the whole of the estimates and
to inquire into every case mentioned in those esti-
mates, to enable us to get the information necessary,
with plans and estimates for them all, and to enable
us to give an opinion on the whole estimates at
once for the year. We give a general approval of
the estimates, which are rough estimates before the
plans and specifications have l!)een made out, with the
understanding that each specific ivork is to have its
plans and estim.ates sanctioned by us when the case
arises. It would be impossible to exerci.se anv con-
ti-ol over them, or to offer any opinion ujjon tlieni, if
any other plan was adopted. At Question 436 I find
this : "As the matter now stands, was the action of
" the Board of Trade, in suggesting the particular ap-
" plication of the light, in your opinion within the
" meaning of the Merchant Shipping Act ? — I dou'nt
" whether it was strictly in accordance with the
" spirit of the Act." I may say that since I have been
at the Board of Trade I have endeavoured as much as
pos.sible to settle those points that we each have to
give an opinion upon without correspondence, and to
ende.avour by meeting on the spot to .settle everything
by discussion on the spot before a formal propos.al is
made ; and I am quite sure that we have reduced the
correspondence, and the difficulty also of agreeing,
veiy much by doing so ; and therefore many of the
things, particularly relating to Scotch lights, that
have been decided upon, have been decided in the
first i)lace by discussion between the parties. I have
on two occasions accompanied the Trinity Board to
meet the Scotch Commissioners, or Mr. Stevenson,
to settle these points, and on both occasions we have
settled the points that had previously given rise to
correspondence, and would have given rise to much
more correspondence ; we have settled them in one
day without any difficult}'. Although this may ont
be strictly in accordance with the Merchant Shipping
Act, what we agreed to has afterwards been sent
in the usual form, thi'ough the different Boards.
But I believe that had we chosen to direct that
alter.atiou in the light it would have been in strict
accordance with the spirit of the Statute ; but in
this ca,se, as we were acting in conjunction with the
Trinity House, I cannot see how Admiral Gordon
should think that we were .going beyond the spirit
or even the letter of the Act. There is one point
in Admiral Gordon's evidence that I wish particularly
to explain. In one answer he speaks of my having
gone with the Trinit}' House Committee in their
steamer, as if it was not their wish that I should
go, but that they did not like to refuse the request
of the Board of Trade that I should go with them,
I was ver}' sorry to see that, because the first
time that I accompanied them, I did so at the request
of Captain Shepherd, the then Deputy Master, and he
certainly agreed with me that it would be desirable
that we should go down and see those things on the
spot, with the Northern Light Commissioners, and so,
if possible, settle them. He certainly expressed his
wish that I should accompany them, and had I not
supposed that on every occasion I have been with them
I had gone with that understanding, or had I supposed
for a moment I was considered to bo only tolerated on
board because the Bo.ard of Trade liad requested
it, I certainly should not have accompanied them. —
Referring to the 464th question, this is what is said ;
" Adverting to the question put at your last ex.ami-
" nation relative to the light at Rhu Vaal, and to
b 4-
Cdpl. B. J.
Sulimn, R.N:
200
MINUTES OF tVIDEXCE TAKEN BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Capt. B. J. " the intorpretation wliirli woulil appear to have
SuUian, R.N. " hceu put "Ml eh»\ise 422 of the Merchant Shipping
'• Act, as to the controlling power of the Board of
1 Feb. 1801. i; Trade in lliat instance, and seeing fliat in case of
•• a difterence of opinion between the Scotch Board
•' and tlie Trinity Board tlie Act makes the Board
" of Trade the uhimate referee, are j'ou of opinion
•' that inconvenience to the public service might
" arise from the power given to the Board of Trade
" by tliat Act being so interpreted? — Yes; it is
" not desirable that the Board of Trade, who are
" the ultimate referees, should intei-fere until ap-
" pealed to ; but courtesy to the naval adviser of
" the Board of Trade has induced the Trinity House
' not to decline being accompanied by him whilst
" employed in preliminary inspections." The next
point is the Iron Rock. Question 467 is put to Ad-
miral Gordon as to the site of the Iron Rock for a
lighthouse, and the expense of that lighthouse, which
led to its being refused by the Board of Trade. If
the Commissioners will refer to the previous corre-
.spondence on that subject, they will hnd that Cap-
tain Bedford had recommended Dunan's Head,
abreast of the rock, as the site ; that Mr. Stevenson
had recommended a site somewhere on the main, on
account of the expense of putting it on the Iron
Rock, and that while Goat Island would be the best
for leading to the small anchorage, Dunan's Head
would be the best position for lighting vessels in
safety past the Iron Rock, and therefore agreeing
with Cajitain Bedford. After that, the representa-
tives of the three Boards met on the spot, and with-
out any reference to the cost of the thing, or to the
trade for which it would be erected, it was decided
that the best site would be the Iron Rock, and no
one can doubt that if no other thing was considered,
the Iron Rock would be the best site ; hut when the
Northern Light Commissioners sent the plans and
estimates for it to the Board of Trade, we found
that it would cost nearly 10,000/. ; above 6,000/.
for the light, and 3,400/. for the three keepers
dwellings on shore, together with the necessary
storehouse and road and enclosure that would
have to be made. It was then certainly the duty of
the Board of Trade to consider, whether such an
outlay from the Mercantile Marine Fund would Ik^
justifiable for the amount of trade using that channel,
and it was ascertained that, even if charged for a
rock station, the tolls that could be levied for the
light would only amount to 75/. a year, and there-
fore the remaining cost, — besides the first heavy cost —
of 300/. or 400/. a year at least, must have been a
permanent charge on the shipping of the United
Kingdom, to enable the small trade of that channel
to have this light on the Iron Rock. The decision
come to was, that unless it could be i)ut there for
very much less, something like 6,000/. or 7,000/.,
we should not feel justified in granting the money
for it. That question also raises the jjoint of the
cost of these dwellings ; the estimate for three
keepers dwellings of four rooms each was, as I said
before, with the necessary outworks, 3,400/. ; but if
we separate the bare dwellings from the rest, I
think it would amount to something vxcT 2,000/.
Now, the accommodation given by Mr. Stevenson's
buildings for keepers, compared with their cost is,
in my opinion, after having carefully considered the
whole matter for a long time, not in jn-oportion to
what it is in Kngland or Ireland ; and although
Mr. Ste\enson disputes the i)oint with regard to a com-
parison with one of the worst rock stations in Ireland,
■which we hajipencd to have before us at the same
time, I repeat that the actual comparison is this, — that
for dwellings of rlic same size, with just as much
acconnnodation in Ireland as they pro])0.sed to give
in Scotland, while Mr. Stevenson's estimates ex-
ceeded,! thiidi, 2000/. for three dwellings, (he Ballast
Board's estimates were l.oOO/. for four dwellings.
The (piestion bad arisen before with regard to several
other lighthouses, and when I first went down, I was
surprised to see at Rhn Vaal the most expensive
style of dwelling that it is possible to conceive ; that
is, dwellings on one floor, of cour.se entailing double
the foundation and double the roof for the same
amount of accommodation. Except it were in a
very exposed position, I do not think that we should
be warranted in sanctioning such an outlay, because
it has not been found necessary in England. On the
most exposed positions, such as the Lanil's End or
Lizard Point, the Trinity House has always put
double dwellmgs of two stories, and 1 believe, every
other thing being equal, that the difierence would
.amount to something like 30 per cent. By per.son-
all}-, in the first instance, explaining to Mr. Steven-
son, and afterwards in writing, they were told that
we should not again, except in special cases, sanction
the cost of putting the dwellings on one floor, and
that they should be put on two floors. It was done
in two out of the three next lighthouses sanctioned: but
we were asked to sanction a singh? stored' dwelling at
Pladda, as it might require the light to .show over it,
and that was immediately sanctioned ; the Board ot
Trade therefore first reduced the expense l)y making
them build on two stories. I mention this case
because in a letter written to this Board. I believe
by the Northern Light Commissioners, thej' have
stated that they have brought the expense down as
low as possible; but, in fact, what they have brought
it down to was done by the Board of Trade, and not
by them, because the Board of Trade said, you must
build them on two storeis ; and also said, you must
have no ornamental cut stone or cornices in the
rooms, which I see Mr. Stevenson allows, in his
evidence, amounts to 180/. for one small dwelling. It
is by these means, our objecting to the items, that
the expenditure has been reduced to what it is ; but
after all that, we find the amount comes to about
700/. a dwelling, for the three keepers dwellings on
the island of Jura, for the Iron Rock Lights. I do
not think that the Board of Trade would be justified
in sanctioning such large estimates for dwellings,
unless they are perfectly satisfied that dwellings
perfectly good and strong in every respect could not
be built for a lower sum. I have no doubt what-
ever in my own mind, that these Scotch dwellings
cost a very unnecessar}- sum, comparing them with
the English and Irish dwellings. I can come to no
other conclusion, notwithstanding what Mr. Steven-
son has said. And I have another means of compa-
rison. The coast-guard authorities have lately been
building new coast-guard cottages round the coast of
England, and I have had their plans and specifica-
tions sent to me. I could not find the large drawings
to bring with me, but this little sketch {exhibiting
the same) will give an idea of them ; and there is,
as nearly as ])ossible, the same area in the ground
floor, and they give nearly the same amount of accom-
modation as the Scotch and English dwellings ; hut
tliey are divided diflerently, for instead of two rooms
of 12 feet, giving an area of 12 feet by 24, which is
about the size of the Scotch, where they have a
staircase outside, they give one larger room, and
divide the bedrooms into three instead of two, which
I think is a better arrangement. Those dwellings
appear all to be constructed of the best material,
quite good enough for any class of man that a light-
keeper can possibly be. As far as durability goes,
they have been constructed without regard to ex-
pense on that point, and they have been built as solid
and good dwellings for the coast guard ; and I think
we may fairly compare those with what, in similar
situations, a lighthouse dwelling should cost.
929. You are speaking of the dwelling houses in
connexion with the lighthouse on the Island of Dura,
but in general I should think they would hardly
admit of a comparison with the dwellings f'oi' the
coast guard, as you wnuld uatm'ally select a sheltered
place for them on a wild coast, whereas for a light-
IXQX'IRE IXTO THE CONDITIOX AND MANAGEMEXT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, .V^'D BEACOXS.
201
bouse you must take the most exposed place on that
coast r — The coast guard are as close to the coast as
the lighthouses, and the being a little more or loss
exposed would not affect the price, if the distance
from labour and material is not greater, and the
facility of obtaining materials the same.
930. {Mr. Graves.) Are these buildings built of
brick or stone ? — They are of brick in some places,
and stone in others.
931. Would you sanction the construction of dwell-
ing houses iu Scotland of brick ? — They use it by
preference.
932. (Chairman.) Is it solely on account of the
cost of the dwellings, and not of the lighthouse, that
the Board of Trade has declined to go on with the
lighthouse on the Iron Rock ? — Certainly not. The cost
of the lighthouse is the principal reason. The cost
of these coast-guard cottages per pair in the different
localities varies from about 3oO/. a pair to 700/. orToO/. ;
the latter, I think in one case only, where the material
has to be drawn seven miles; the average is about
500/. a pair for dwellings, as to which I have had
the opinion of the engineer officer attached to the
Board of Trade, Captain Galton, and which opinion
is, th.at although not as expensive in many cases as
the Scotch specifications, they are quite enough for any
class of men of that kind. He winds up his opinion,
having compared the plans and specifications of the
two, in these words : — " There cau be no doubt that
" the cottages proposed for the coast guard are amply
" adequate for the class of men who inhabit them,
" and, consequently, any expenditure incurred to
" obtain more expensive dwellings is a waste of
" money."
933. Is it not the case that you have approved of
the plans sent in by the Scotch Board ? — The plans
and estimates came together.
934. Have you approved of the plans ? — We have
not approved of the plan for the lighthouse on the
Iron Rock, but it is not that which gave rise to it ;
we have approved of similar plans for dwellings in
other phu'es.
935. Who is to prepare the plans if the Scottish
Commissioners are not to prepare them ? — There has
been no question as to whether they are to make
them or not. We have suggested an alteration in
the plans to this extent— after I saw Rhu Vaal ; — at
the same time we suggested that the dwellings should
be of two storeys ; we also suggested that the light-
kee]>ers should have not less than four rooms instead
of three rooms.
936. I am speaking of the plan of the lighthouse
which you say you did not approve ? — The only
objection to the plan of the lighthouse on the Iron
Kock is its cost ; we think that it is out of projDOrtion
to the wants of the tr.ade iu that place.
937. Ai'e you of opinion that there is any one
more capable of forming a just estimate for such a
work, when the plans have been approved, than the
engineer employed by the Commissioners of Northern
Lights, or that there is any set of men more capable
of judging of the reasonableness of that estimate
than the Scotch Commissioners themselves ? — I be-
lieve that, although the plans may be very good, they
may be carried out in an expensive way, and that the
Scotch dwellings have cost more than dwellings for
those keepers need have cost. I have formed that
opinion after making all the inquiries that I can,
and seeing the dwellings myself ; and I may instance
this : I made one inquiry through a friend at Oban.
I saw some very good houses that were built for gen-
tlemen there — one for the surveying commander at
Oban, and I thought I should like to know the cost of
such houses. I wrote to him, and sent him an exact
sketch of one of the double storied houses in
question. I asked him to inquire of the builder who
built his house what a gentleman could get such
a cottage built for at Oban, of the very best material
and workmariship, well finished, enough for a gentle-
man's small house, to be thoroughly strong, and to be
I. C
a good winter residence iu that climate if necessary ; Capt. B. J.
and the answer was to this efl'ect, that they had only Sulwan, iJ.A.
one builder at Oban, and, therefore, he was an cxpen-
sive one, although a very good one, and he said that he ' Fcb^lSGl.
could not build such a house at Oban under 400/. ; or,
if cut stone were used for cornerstones, which would
have to be brought from Glasgow, 460/. This would
have been an exactly similar dwelling to the one at
Corran Point, for which I think the estimate was
1,400/.
938. But Oban is a town, the workmen and ma-
terials being all convenient, and CorranToint is in an
exposed situation where there would be great diffi-
culty in getting either the one or the other ? — I men-
tion Corran Point because it has not the objection of
being an outlying island, for there is a village
for workmen to live in, close to it, and it is not much
more isolated than Oban. I would take HolbornHead
as an instance. The original estimates for Holborn
Head were, I think, 4,600/. for a small harbour light ;
and the dwelling, taking the criterion of the other
lights for that, would in the same way have repre-
sented about a sum of 1,400/. It was suggested to
the Scotch Commissioners that, for a small harbour
light like that, a house with a light at the gable of
the keeper's dwelling would answer all the purpose,
and so, save a tower. The Trinity House, without
any suggestion, adopted that verjf plan shortly after-
wards for a harbour light at Harwich. I had sug-
gested it for Holborn Head before, as I had seen even
first class lights, when height was not required, on
the Danish coasts, of the same kind, where onlv
half a circle required to be lighted, the lantern was
fixed at the end of a gable, and it answered all the pur-
pose ol' a tower at a much cheaper rate. And if I had
been responsible for erecting lights, in the case of
all harbour lights, and in several cases I think on the
west coast of Scotland, where the height of a tower
was not required, I would, at much smaller cost,
have given the necessary efficiency to a light in that
manner. At Holborn Head the Commissioners
adopted our suggestion to a certain extent, but they
have connected a small tower with the dwelling which
has reduced the cost to 1,200/. or a little more than
that. At Holborn Head there is every facility for
building keepers' cottages as cheaply, I believe, as you
can build one in any place in England. The old red
sandstone that would have to be cut out for the foun-
dation is a good building stone. No material from
a distance would be required of that kind. There is a
village close at hand, where people would reside, and
a town a small distance off, and I cannot fancy any
place therefore where works ought to be executed at
a lower rate than at Holborn Head. The lighthouse
on Languard Point, at Harwich, is of brick material,
which has to be conveyed there, it is on a shingle point
requiring a more expensive foundation. For that
foundation they asked 2001., and for the house 800/.
more ; the light will be placed in the gable, and allow-
ing that a fourth-class light, which is the only one
in question, could be placed for aliout 600/. in that
gable, which I am convinced it could be, or certainly
for 700/. or 800/., the wliole expense of that would
be reduced to about 1,600/. or 1,800/. Now at Hol-
born Head there is the additional cost of a road
and walls, but certainly in no way could that run up
an additional 2,000/., and from the tenders that have
been made for the building portion of the work the
cost will, I think, be consider.ibly under the original
estimate although probably not the amended estimate
that was made after we had discussed the question
in correspondence with the Light Commissioners. I
am convinced that a much cheaper class of dwelling
and building altogether, with equal Btren"th and
durabilit)", might have been adopted for this class of
light ; and the more I have seen and gone into the
question, and discussed it with Messrs. Stevenson, the
more I have heard their objections the moie am I con-
vinced that we have not taken a wrong view on these
points, and I am sure that there is no reason why the
202
MIXirrES OF EVIDEXCE TAKEX BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
Capt. B. J.
Sulivan, li.X
ings in Scotland should cost so much more than in
England or in Ireland. I mentioned this subject to
a gentleman of property residing in the highlands in
an out of the way place, and he was astonished when
I told him what the dwellings cost. He told me that
he had just had two ornamental lodges, containing
four rooms each, built for his park, that they were
built of the best materials, and handsomely con-
structed, and that they had cast him 5001. a
pair. And surely, if these are facts, it cannot
be necessarj', at least in a place like Corran or Holborn
Head, that more than double that sum should be
spent for two keepers' dwellings. I think that taking
the average of the Trinity House dwellings they cost
about 1,000/. a pair, or something less; but in one very
exposed place at Sennen's Cove four dwellings for
the keepers have been built for 1,000/. That is an
out of the way place on the Cornish coast, and farther
from a town than Holborn Head is. An application
was made, at first privately to me, from parties who
were interested in a harbour light on the west coast
of Scotland on an island ; all I could do was to refer
them to the Scotch Board. I was told that the late
Mr. Stevenson had long ago selected this very
site for the purpose, but that it had been given up.
I said that we had no power, and that it must come
through the Scotch Board ; but I was anxious to see
what means existed in this island for erecting these
buildings, and I asked a person moving in the matter
whether they had the means of building, in the is-
land, the necessary works. He said that there was
a very good builder there, that there were persons iu
the island, who were interested in getting this light,
who would render every assistance, and that he was
Bure it could bo done at a cheap rate. I asked him,
whether he would ascertain from the builder there
what a dwelling for a keeper, with the necessary
fittings for a light, could be erected for ; that
it must be all of the best material, strong and
durable, and fit for a respectable keeper to live in.
Shortly afterwards he ent me a sketch made by this
builder of a dwelling i\ which he only gives two rooms
to each keeper, and a l.ttle tower attached to the dwell-
ing; there are four r.ioms, but the rooms are much
larger although fewer in number, tEey are 16 by 13
instead of 12 by 13. i5ut, allow that it is 40 per cent,
under what the accommodation for the Scotch houses
could be given for. Tiiere is a little tower proposed to
put the light on, and he olfers to build ;.that light-
building of the best material for 350/. Now I have
not any doubt that if I had the entire management of
putting a light in that island, that I would put a very
good harbour light there, with buildings as strong
and durable although not as handsomely finished as
Mr. Stevenson's, and that at the outside it should cost
no more, complete, than from 1,200/. to 1,500/. I be-
lieve 1,000/. I cannot have the slightest doubt about
it. And that, I think, goes entiiely to confirm my
opinion, that the style of those houses is unnecessarily
expensive. I may mention one thing that took place
in my presence when we entered those little houses
at lUiu Vaal, which only gave three rooms, although
too well finished for the keepers. One of the Elder
brethren who was with me exclaimed " I do not
wonder now at the Scotch dwellings being so
expensive when I see how they are finished; we
are content with iron bolts, but here, everything is
brass." Then merely on our representation Mr.
Stevenson allows in his evidence, that on two of
those dwellings, in ornament alone, in cut stone and
cornices to the rooms, the amount has been reduced by
181/. ; and I think that justifies the opinion we
had formed, that the original plans were unnecessarily
expensive, and that we were right in endeavouring to
reduce the amount before we sanctioned the expen-
diture.
939. (Mr. Graves.) Seeing that the Northern Com-
missioners assert that they cannot get an efficient
lighthouse and suitable dwelliugs built on the Iron
Eoek at a less cost than Mr. Stevenson's estimate, and
that the Board of Trade will not grant the snm re-
quired, the question is naturally suggested what will
be the practical issue of this difl^erence of opinion ?—
I believe it "tnight easily be settled if there were not
difficulties connected with the triple government
About two months since the Scotch Commissioners
wrote to us enclosing a letter from Captain Graham,
of the clansman, showing the importance of having a
light in Jura Sound. In the letter Captain Graham
particularly dwelt on his anxiety one night in passin"
the rock, because he did not know how far he wae
from Dunan's Head iu consequence of the darkness of
the night. On that we wrote to the Northern Light
Commissioners suggesting that as Dunan's Head would
really in a great measure answer as well as the Iron
Rock, at all events as the light could be put there
for half the cost of the light and dwellings lor the
Iron Rock, and might answer all the purposes required
of a light in that channel ; we suggested to them whe-
ther they could not re-open the question by proposing
a light on Dunan's Head, and that we should be
quite ready to grant the necessarv sanction for the
outlay as quickly as it could be done, that the light
might be proceeded with as soon as possible. Mv own
conviction was, and is, that that was the best way to
meet that difficulty, that while it would reduce the
expense greatly, both of the first cost and the main-
tenance, it would equally supply the wants of the
trade in that sound. The principal trade requiring a
light there consists of the few steamers that run two
or three times a week up and down that sound, and
only for them would the expense of the light be
justifiable, and on nautical grounds I am convinced
myself that a light on Dunan's Head would aftbrd
those steamers as mucb safety for passing the Iron
Rock, as if it were on the rock itself. I was iu hopes
that by suggesting this to the Northern Light Com-
missioners we might get over the difficulty, and get
the light so much wished for by Captain Graham and
his friends. The Scotch Commissioners replied to
the eU'ect that they could not re-open the question, as
it had been decided to be on the Iron Rock, in fact as
it were going on the difficulty of their re-opening the
question when the Trinity House and Board of
Trade had already decided that it should be in ano-
ther place ; at all events shewing that they would not
meet our views halfway in order to get this question
settled, and so it rests at present. Since that time I
have seen Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Cuninghani, and
they both expressed their opinion that they would be
quite satisfied with it on the rock. Mr. Stevenson
said that it was in accordance wit'u his previous
opinion, and that if we wished them to put it on
Dunan's Head, in order to save the expense,
they were quite ready to do so. But we could not
do that without exercising the power which we have
never yet exercised, and do not wish to do. But I
am in hopes, with the concurrence of the Trinity
House and the Northern Light Commissioners if they
will not stick on the formal point and will meet
us half way, that we shall get the light on Dunan's
Head instead, which will I believe answer all the
purposes of the trade, and be more in accordance as
to expense with the small toll obtainable and with
the trade of the place.
940. {Chairma7i.) Without impugning the reason-
ableness of the proposal made by the Board of Trade,
and without questioning the practical merits, nauti-
cally speaking, of that proposal,from what clause of the
Merchant Shipping Act do you gather that the Board
of Trade can take the initiative in a question of
placing Lights on or lighting our shores ? — Our letter
to the Northern Light Commissioners shows that we
distinctly wished them, in accordance with the Act,
to take the initiative by re-opening the question, and
by making a proposal through the proper channel, be-
cause we did not wish to exercise the authority that
we might exercise in directing them to place it there
without their doing so ; and that is the real difficulty
that we now labour under. As they rested their
IXQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIOHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
203
case so much upon the letter that was written by
Captain Gi'ahani, I was anxious to know his opinion
upon this point ; and I wrote to liim asliing him for
it, and this is his answer : — " In reference to the
" proposed light in the Sound of Jura, I am of
" opinion that the Iron Rock is the proiier site for a
" light in that locality ; but, under all consideration?,
" of the extra expense of building and maintaining
" the same, and also the higher rate of toll that
" wouhl be levied on ships passing, perhaps Dunan's
" Head would bo most advisable. I see no really
" serious objection against the light being erected
" on Dunan's Head. The steamers, which I am
" sure represent more than half the tniilic of the
" sound, would have no difficulty in passing by
" safely if the light was shown on Dunan's Point.
" On the night referred to in my communication
" to the Northern Light Commissioners I would
" have had no difficulty at all if the light had
" been shown on the Head." Now I think that
quite confirms the opinion that we had previously
expressed to the Northern Light Commissioners,
that if they would agree to this alteration it would
meet the wants of the trade, and do it at a cost more
in accordance with what would be justifiable for
such a trade. Captain Graham goes on to say : —
" I do earnestly hope that we will get a light some-
" where soon in that locality. I was born in sight
'•' of the Iron Rock, and still it gives me more
" anxiety to pass by it safely than all the other
" rocks between Glasgow and Stornaway." I may
say this, that the sailing vessels in that channel are
very few, and I have not heard of any accident
to one on the rock. There would be still the advan-
tage of a beacon on the rock, and a small band of
coloured light thrown from Dunan's Head across the
rock would keep vessels, working up and down,
clear of it when standing across. That it is
only a reasonable proposition that this saving should
bo made, I think is shown by a case on our own
coasts, where a somewhat similar point was decided
by the Trinity House alone. Those who know
Falmouth harbour will recollect the Black Rock, in the
middle of the harbour, which, on a small scale, is ex-
actly like the Iron Rock in the middle of Jura Sound ;
but, as the channel is much narrower than Jura
Sound, it is of course more dangerous to vessels
than the Jura Sound channel. If cost had been set
aside, there is no doubt that a lighthouse on the
Black Rock would h.ave been the best position for
vessels entering Falmouth harbour, because it would
liaht both channels for vessels coming in, and would
enable them to go as near the rock as was safe ;
but the Trinity House put the light on the main point,
and put the l:)cacon on the Black Rock, and that has
answered the purposes of a very large trade ; so
much so that in 24 hours I have known 170 vessels,
both during the day and night, pass in safety into
Falmouth harbour. For that immense trade a
beacon on the rock, and a light on the point, are
sufficient ; and certainly for a very small trade, that
will not pay one eighth of the cost of maintenance,
a similar arrangement would be quite sufficient. If
the Northern Light Commissioners would not stick
to the ex.act form on this question, but would be
prepared to meet us half way for the sake of getting
this light there, I have no doubt that it could be pro-
ceeded with next summer. I may add fairly that
this shows the great inconvenience of dealing with
two, and still more with three, governments.
941. {Mr. Gladstone.) The Irish lighthouses have
been constructed usually at about as great an ex-
pense as the Scotch lights. Have you had any
occasion to complain of the expense in recent erec-
tions in Ireland ? — The only erection in Ireland
since I have been at the Board of Trade that has led
to a question of expense, I think, is the case I have
alluded to ; namely, the dwelling on the Calf Rock,
in which case we n^ido them reduce the expense.
But, judging from the estimates of the cost of the
C
lighthouses on the Calf Rock and on the Black Capi. B J.
Rock, and comparing those with such lights as those Sulivan, ./?.A.
of North Unst, the Butt of Lewis, and the pi'oposed ^ T.-lT^gei
light on the Jlonach Islands, I should think the cost ______'
of the Irish lights very much less in proportion than
the Scotch lights ; for instance, if we take the Calf
Rock, it is a rock very much exposed, that can
only be landed upon occasionally, with the whole
Atlantic Sea coming in against it, and affording, I
should think, at least as difficult, if not a more diffi-
cult, site than North Unst. But I speak of North
Unst with more reserve, because I have not been
there. I judge only b}' the estimated cost, which is
confirmed b)- the tenders that we have now sanc-
tioned, and whicli is, I think, not more, but much
less, than the cost of North Unst ; the estimate for
the Calf Rock is only 17,400Z. That is the
sanctioned tender, both for the lighthouse and all the
works necessary on the shore, including the dwelling
houses. For Black Rock, I think, the tenders are
15,000/.; very little more than the estimated cost of the
Monach Island and the Butt of Lewis Lights, the
former, I think, being 14,000/., and the latter being
12,000/., while there is no comparison as to the
difficulty of the situation. The estimate for the
dwellings on the Black Rock, where the difficulty of
landing is so immense, and where everything will
have to be taken up, I believe, on inclined planes, is
only 1,500/., no more th.an for the ordinary dwellings
of the Scotch lighthouses in small stations, such as
Pladda and Carran, and less considerably than the
estimates for the dwellings either on Monach or the
Butt of Lewis. While I have been speaking of the
cost of the Scotch dwellings as 1,400/. .and 1,500/.,
I have been taking the lowest rate of estimate.
For the Monach group the estimate alone is above
2,000/., for the Butt of Lewis somewhere about
the same ; and jet in the Monach group there is
a beautiful landlocked cove, where vessels can lie
in perfect safety. Everything could be landed
close to the spot, while at the Black Rock everything
has to be landed with the greatest difficulty, only
in fine weather, and to an extent that cannot be
compared with the difficulties on Monach and the
Butt of Lewis. At Question 74 this appears : —
" Were they all Scotch tenders ? — Yes. In other
" cases the commissioners are prohibited from adver-
" tising by the Board of Trade for their tenders,
" such as for lanterns and apparatus, and they are
" directed to transmit the specifications to certain
" specified houses in England and Scotland." That
is quite a mistake. We have, as a rule, said that as
to buildings it should be done by general tenders,
but we have never said that the more important
works, such as lanterns and apparatus, should not be
done by general lenders. Then Question 750 and
the answer .are these — " Was the original plan of the
" Commissioners of Northern Lights with regard to
" the height of the Caimbulg beacon carried out ? —
" It was originally intended to be higher, but, by the
" directions of the Board of Trade, the beacon was
" cut down." Mr. Stevenson there alludes to a beacon
having been cut down. It is true that we requested
them to reduce the expense, which would reduce the
beacon from 40 to 30 feet. A reef of rocks extends
a very short distance from the land, and there are
many parts on our coasts which are quite as dangerous
without a buoy or beacon, and if it were not such rn
exposed coast it is a place where a buoy would answer
every purpose, and no more than the expense of a
buoy would be justifiable. Therefore, a be.acon that
will always show from 15 to 20 feet, I think, above
high-water mark, and which will be so much more
conspicuous than any buoy would be, certainly
answers all the necessities of the case, and therefore
it was a case in which we might fairly ex])ect to get
it done at a more reasonable cost than that at first
proposed for a 40 feet beacon, and that was the reason
for wishing it to be cut down. There is another case
of the Tuesdale beacon in the Isle of Man. Mr. Steven-
c 2
204
MINUTES OK EVIDEXeE TAKEN" BEFORE THE COMMISSIOXERS APPOINTED T(J
Capt. B. J.
Sulaan, jR N.
Bon proposed one of those large and expensive east-
iron beacons ; it is in a narrow channel where it is
not wanted to guide a vessel to the Channel — the land
does it, and it is only when close in, that a vessel
requires to pass the danger, and therefore a large
beacon is not necessary. A short time before, the
Scotch Board had erected a small class of wrought-
irou beacon, costing, I think, only 80/. on the
Calliach Kock, and" it seemed to the Bo.ard of
Trade that a beacon something of that class, which
would be less expensive, would answer the pur-
pose better. Mr. Stevenson gave a plan and esti-
mate for a beacon of that construction, which he said
he would not recommend, as he preferred the other,
as he considered it in the light of an experiment ; but
the estimate was, 1 think, a little more than half the
cost of the first proposed beacon, and the size of it
would answer all the purpose. The Board of Trade
considered that it would be a fair case for testing one
of the new wrought-iron beacons, which was so much
cheaper, in a site of that kind, and therefore that
they would approve of that beacon, notwithstanding
Mr. Stevenson not being answerable for its durability,
as a desirable experiment; but, if it succeeded, it
might lead to reducing the cost of the beacons ; and
I think that tliat was a proper thing to do under
existing circumstances. The next ease that I have
to refer to is that of the Uust boatman. It was pro-
posed to run a telegraph from the island to the shore,
and a permanent boatman had been sanctioned for
that shore station on the ground of his being required
to go up the hill, I think, to look out for signals daily.
We said that if this telegraph was carried to the
houses of course this man would lie unnecessary ; and
as for a rock station alone, I do not know of any
case where permanent boatmen are kept, but that
boatmen are hired for the occasion, or it is done l)y
contract ; it was thought that if he was not necessary
for a signal man, which was the ground on which he
was made permanent, his expense might be saved
annually, and so make np somewhat for the cost of
the telegraph. The Scotch Commissioners refused
the telegVaph on tliose conditions, and they said that
the boafman was necessi-.ry. Xow as fishermen can
be hired there to man the boat, I see no reason why
the boat's crew could not be hired periodically, or
when required, as they are at other stations both in
England and Ireland, and I believe in Scotland, where
no permanent man is kept. And therefore, because
they still insisted upon having this signalman to look
out for signals under the name of a boatman, we re-
fused to sanction the cost of the electric telegraph.
Tiie road for the signalman, if lie was retained, was
not necessary over jihiin open moor ground like that ;
and we stated that if there were any difficult passes
where little bridges were required, we should liavo
no objection to the outlay ; but that to make a road
of that distance to the hill, to en.able him to walk over,
we tl'.ought unnecessary, and we refused it.
912. Was it not the case that he was upon one
occasion nearly lost ? — I am not aware of that ; but
it was distinctly stated to them, that if tliere
were any difficult passes or water-courses which
made it dangerous for him to cross, we had no objec-
tion to the expense of making them safe, but that a
road over the open was not required. My recollec-
tion is that that followed the telegraph ; but at all
events, if the telegraph was adopted, it was certain
that tlie road would not be wanted. If the telegraph
was adopted, I cannot see why tlie signalman was
wanted ; the signalman was asked for and sanctioned,
not as a boatman, but distinctly as a signalman ; and
it was only wlien the telegraph question was raised
that it was said he was wanted to be retained as
a boatman. Then came the question of beacons and
buoys, as to colours ; and I wish merely generally to
state that 1 am quite certain, as a general principle,
that it is not safe to mark tlie sides of channels bv
red and black buoys. I have had probably as much
experience as auy person in marking channels ; for
example, in the Baltic, where we had an immense
deal of that to do, putting down marks for vessels to
go through, at short notice ; and we found nothing
60 good to prevent a mistake, whether for large or
small vessels, as a parti-coloured buoy on one side,
and a dark-coloured buoy on the other, because they
could not possihh' be mistaken ; and I adopted, there,
red, and red and white, or black, and black and white.
I believe, with regard to red and black, that they are
apt to be mistaken for each other, and I cannot con-
sider them safe, and that is why I should not recom-
mend their being sanctioned without clearing myself
of the responsibility of adopting those colours. I may
instance, in order to try the question, that when going
down the Swin, with the Elder Brethren, dis-
cussing this point, after Lord Clarence Paget had
mooted the (luestioi;, I was asked suddenly by one of
the Elder Brethren of the Trinity House, '• YMiat
colour is that buoy ?" AVe were ai)proachiug it in a
certain light. Others were asked ; and I think we
were evenly divided in opinion, for about half said
red, and the other half said black ; but as we drew
up to it and got it in another light it was seen, I
think, to be black ; but there was quite a difllerence
of opinion until then. In going into Barnstaple,
in the " Banshee," with tlie Harbour of Refuge Com-
missioners on board, we were approaching a buoy,
and I asked all the gentlemen on the paddle-box the
question, " Is that a black or a red Inioy ?" Some pro-
nounced it black, and some pronounced it red; but as
the light changed some of them changed their opinions,
and as it came alongside I think that it proved to be
a red buoy. It was utterh' impossible for a stranger,
who had to pass on one side of a black buoy, and on
the other side of a red buoy, that he could have
known on which side safety lay. Whether you use
red or black is of less importance, so long as you
have the other side stripes or checkered. I am con-
vinced that the best is to have black on one side
and checkered on the other, or red on one side and
checkered on the other — and it was on that ground
that ^\-e susirested it to the Ballast Board for Loucrh
Swilly.
943. (Mr. Graves.) Do you approve of one general
system of buoys ? — I think it is desirable to lay down
one uniform system ; that is, I would endeavour, iu
buoying all new places, to establish this system, —
that black or red buoys sliould be on the one
hand, and black and white or red and white on
the other. In the same way, if buoys have
beacons on them, on one side, where tiie one colour
is, there should be one ball, and on the other side,
where the two colours are, there should be two balls.
That .system has now, at my suggestion, been added
to our naval signal books for buoying and beaconing
channels, and I drew it up at the request of Admiral
Hope and others who were employed to revise the
signal book. I am sure it is the right system ; but I
would not think of breaking up the old and well-
established system of buoys in places where every
man iu a coaster knows them well, merely to
change them to this system ; I would trv to bring
it about wherever I could, and always adopt it in new
places : but I would not try to break up so well-
established a system as that at the entrance to the
Thames, where there are several channels.
944. (Chairman.) Witli resjiect to going in to
Barnstaple, Mr. Campbell wislies you to be asked
whether there was any other buoy that might be
compared with the one colour which you were uncer-
tain about ? — I do not recollect at this moment ; but
I may say that a black buoy gets rusty, and a red
buoy becomes black as it gets dirty, and that in-
creases the difficulty, particularly in different lights.
94o. (Mr. Gladstone.) Do you think that your
objection applies equally in a bright light as in a dull
light ? — It is more difficult, in the bright light of the
sun, to distinguish them, than in any other ; but I
cannot fanc)' anyone mistaking a striped or checkered
buoy for a dark buoy of one coloar.
INQUIRE INTO THE COXDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
205
946. {Mr. Graves.) How do you mark the centre
danger .according to your system of buoyage ? — The
only point tliat would require a ditTcrent class of buoy
would be the divergent point at the two ends of a
bank, which could ahv.iys be mirked by a particular
beacon buoy, and perhaps a white buoy ; I do not
like them generally ; but they might answer the
purpose with beacons. Where you have a divergence
forming two channels, you would follow the rule in
each channel as in a single channel.
947. The Commission have taken the eTidence of
(i.J7 mariners on the question of the colour of buoys,
and 40S out of that number have given their prefer-
ence for black, and only 13 have expi-essed a prefer-
ence for checkered ? — I should quite accord with
them if I had merely to decide what one buoy to mark
one danger should be — the darker the buoy the better,
and therefore black. But if they had been asked
what buoy would you place on the opposite side of
a channel ? I think the majority of them would have
told you, a black and white buoy of the same kind, in
preference to a red buoy.
948. Seeing that you rather agree in the fact that
it is difficult to alter the established system, is it not
reasoinible to ask you why you should not adopt the
most approved system of existing buoyage rather than
adopt any one ditferent from what is carried out in
England, in Ireland, and in Scotland ? — I do not
think, that because a parti-coloured buoy is adopted,
it can be said that we should adopt a new system.
It is very much used on the coast of England, more
perhaps where there are single channels, for example
I may instance Yarmouth. The Scotch system has
only been adopted recently, or within the last few
years, I think, so that 1 do not believe it is an old
established system. The Irish Board had certainly
commenced no system of the kind until. I think, they
proposed to adopt it in that very place vvdiere wo
suggested the other alteration.
There is another point, with regard to the ex-
penses of management which will be found at
Question 830, and which has been called in question
b}' the Scotch Commissioners, as to the per-centage.
In giving my evidence before the committee on
merchant shipping I took roughly the whole ex-
pense of the maintenance of the lighthouses, and
the cost of management. I did not allude at all to
the outlay on new works, as comparing the actual
expense of managing the lights with the expense
of maintenance during the year ; I have now, in
order to sec whether I was wrong, made a more care-
ful estimate. If 3'ou take the actual cost of the
maintenance of the Scotch lights, buoys, and beacons,
it amounts to 19,400/.'; the salaries, superannuations,
and office expenses, due to the management alone,
amount to 3,868, so that the actual per centage of
management, compared with outlay on maintenance,
is 20 per cent., instead of 16 as I said before. If you
include new works also, and so take the whole outlay,
and then the expense of management, and add the
engineer's expenses, which I have not included, and
the miscellaneous expenses to the others, and compare
that with the whole outlay, I iind that the cost is 11
per cent. I find that taking the same comparison of the
Trinity House under the first head it would be about
21 per cent, for management, and under the second
head, if the new works are all included, 15 per cent.,
both of them higher than the Scotch. If I take the
Irish, I find that under the first head it is only 7 and
3 lOtlis per cent., only one third of the Scotch, and
under the second head o and 7 lOths. ]\Ir. Stevenson
has made a mistake in saying 16 per cent, upon their
revenue — my comparison was on the outlay. Mr.
Stevenson has said that we objected to the cost of the
lantern at Holborn Head because we had had an esti-
mate from Mr. Wilkins of a lower amount. It
might appear that we had had an estimate from
Mr. Wilkins for a similar lantern to compare withMr.
Stevenson's, but we had nothing of the kind. I only
took what we had last paid Mr. Wilkins for a similar
c
ordered for the colonies, and compared it with that. Caot. B. J.
There is one point, and one which I have only recently Suhuan, R.N
discovered myself. In some cases for colonial lights, . _, ,
wlien the principal makers of the apparatus and _______
lights have recently competed for a light at home,
in order to save time and trouble, if the one who
gained that was willing to t.ake the one for the
colony at the lowest tender that he had taken for
the other, we have given it to him also, and in
asking Mr. Wilkins if he would take the light that
we were ordering for the colony at the same cost as he
had taken and made a lanteru for the Ballast Board
he said no, because this light was to be done on the
Trinity House specification, and he could not do it.
I asked him what the difference was, and be said,
that the Trinity House had the metal filed
smooth, and the Irishj Board had the rough
casting painted. I was perfectly astonished to find
that this finishing alone cost more than one third the
value of the lantern. I then asked him whether
if we had these lights finished, not on the Trinity
House specification, but on the Ballast Board speci-
fication in the rough, he would take it on the Ballast
Board cost of the lantern, and he did it directly. I
asked him whether there was any advantage in the
other mode ; and he said that it was in the finish only,
but he thought th.it it took the paint better when
rough; it was not painted when finished ; but in use
and durability there was no difference. That may
give rise to a question with the Trinity House. I
think that the lantern is just as good in the rough
painted, and we have adopted it since for those
that we have ordered for the Red Sea. I think it is
a fair thing to ask the Trinity House and the North-
ern Light Commissioners to do the same, in order to
save the expense in lanterns in future.
949. {Mr. Graves.) Have you formed any opinion
as to the adv.antage of Herbert's Fair Way Light, or
of the possibility of keeping it moored ? — Yes, we
have given our opinion upon that, and it is an
unfavourable one. The first principle, as to lighting
a channel, I think is a question quite open to dis-
cussion, but my opinion at present is against it.
I would rather light the shores than mid channel.
9.30. {Chairman.) I thought th.at this was a
principle of keeping shore lights, and adding the
mid ciiaunel ? — Where there is no danger in the
channel I would not add lights merely to mark the
roadway. Another proposal for using such a light
was the to mark the dividing point between the two
channels, or to give, as it were, a landfall to vessels
coming into soundings. I think that would be a better
use for the light than merely to mark the centre
of the channel, but I do not think it is necessary.
We have now a good light exactly on the dividing
point at the outer danger at the Scilly Islands, and the
only advantage in a light further off would be that it
might prevent a vessel occasionally getting on the wrong
side of the Scilly Islands ; but if the weather is so
thick that she cannot make the Bishops light so as
so as to know which side she is going of the
Scilly Islands, it is hardly possible that she would hit
the other vessel, in that weather, further outside ;
and, therefore, the only time apparently tliat the more
advanced light would be wanted, the chances are a
hundred to one almost against her making that light.
Then, again, with regard to the class of lightvcssels
proposed, however much some may approve of Her-
bert's plan of mooring beacons, or even light vessel.?, I
can hardly fancy any one adopting such a plan for
such a position as that, in preference to a well-tried
form of light vessel, which would be, I believe, far safer
generally than such a structure as that. In the first
place, if they break adrift, a lightvessel is manageable,
and there is no danger to her crew ; l)ut ifone of these
break adrift it may cause the destruction of every man
in her, and, for that reason, the Board of I'rade was
against trying it in such :; position, for instance,
ns the Stones off Godrevy, because we would not take
the responsibility of risking men's lives in a structure
206
jnNTTES OF EVTDKNCE TAKEX BEFORE THE COMMISSIONERS APPOINTED TO
whicli, if it did break adrifr, must take them to cer-
tain destruction, w'aeveas a lightvessel can lioist her
sails and make for a place of safety. Then another
reason why I do not think any one would be justified
in trying such an experiment is, that the large bea-
cons which have been constructed for the purpose of
frying it have not yet had a satisfactory trial. The
one that was tried on the Goodwin Sands disappeared,
and I believe has never been discovered. The one
that was moored off the Godrevy Reef broke adrift
soon after being placed there, and therefore I think
that shows that it would not have done to risk men's
lives in a structure of that kind. I had forgotten one
thing in connexion with Godrevy, which is, tliat in
addition to the light which the Trinity House recom-
mended, the Board of Trade suggested that a large
buoy or beacon should be placed on the Stones to
add to the safety of vessels rounding it.
9.51. {Chairman.) Can you state to the Commis-
sion when there will probably be any exhibition of
the electric light for illuminating a lighthouse ? — The
time entirel}' rests between the Trinity House and
the patentees ; all that the Board of Trade has done
has been to sanction the necessary outlay'. I believe
there has been some new idea of placing .another
tower for it, which was started by the patentees ;
that is, a person very much interested in the matter
called upon me to ask whether such a thing would be
sanctioned, under the idea that an iron tower, of 120
feet in heiglit could be placed on a loose shingle
foundation at Dungeness, for about 1,400/. ; and when
I stated that an iron tower of that height, without a
lining — a plain skeleton tower — erected in the maker's
yard in London for inspection, and delivered on board
a vessel, cost above 6,000/., and that to that would
have to be added all the cost of the foundations in
Dungeness shingle, I think the opinion was entirely
altered, and I have not heard anything further on the
subject. It therefore rests with them. There is one
point in Admiral Gordon's evidence, touching upon
that, that I should like to make a remark upon.
There appears to have been some doubt whether
Dungeness was a proper site for trying that electric
light. At first my own idea was, that such a point
as the Start ■v\ould have been a better point; but
when I understood that neither those Elder Brethren
who had witnessed the trials nor Professor Faradaj
were sufficiently satisfied with its capabilit}' for a
revolving light, to warrant the experiment, I com-
pletely gave up my opinion : and as it had to be
tried upon a fixed light, and us Dungeness lan-
tern and light were at that time about to be changed,
it seemed, although not the most important position
on the coast, a right and proper position in which
to try the electric light, because, if it did not answer,
less expense would be incurred in doing it.
952. i'ou are a memlier of the Thames Conservancy
Board, are you not ? — Yes.
953. Do not the duties you have there to perform
necessarily occupy a good deal of your time ? — It
generally takes me two days a week. If theie is
anything important that I know of at the Board of
Trade I give up the Conservancy for that day, and
go to tlie Board of Trade in preference ; or if the
■work has accumulated, so that I have left any
papers unfinished the day before, I should probably
endeavour to get awny early from the Conservancy
Board and finish the day at the Board of Trade ; but
that rarely occurs. I am generally cm])loycd the
greater portion of the d.ay at the Conservancy Board,
and that leaves me quite time enough, on the other
days, to do the work at the Board of Irade.
9.34. I SCO that the Thames Conservanc)- has placed
D, very effective light at Northfleet, which you arc
obliged, by courtesy to the Trinity House, to' call an
illuminated beacon, and it is lighted with gas at a
very small expense. From the experience that this
light alone, which is uiuler your own conservancy,
has aflbrded you, would you not be favourable to the
introduction of gas where possible in lighthouses ? —
I have not seen that light lighted, not having been
down there by night, but I have seen gas in liirhts
on the coast, and I should certainly be favourable to
the introduction of gas wherever it could be intro-
duced, on the score of expense. I do not think that
experiments have been made up to the present time
sutficicntly to tell whether it would equal the power
of a first-class light, but I do not see why arrange-
ments should not be m.ade for making gas answer all L
the purpose. I think that if I had to give an opinion I
npon the point, and a lighthouse was to ba lighted
where gas was within reach, I should hesitate before
I recommended that the expenditure for a lamp
should be sanctioned, if gas could be obtained.
9.JO. 1 may assume, that if the Trinity House or
any lighthouse authority came to the Board of Trade
with a request, that a certain small sum might be
allowed for experiments in gas, that the Board of
Trade would be quite ready to sanction it ? — Most
decidedly. I think there lias been no instance of
any sum that has been asked for, large or small,
for experiments, being refused. I cannot recollect
an instance, from the smallest sum up to the sum
necessai'v for the electric light.
906. Can you inform this Commission whether any
lighthouse authorities have applied to the Board of
Trade for permission to make experiments in gas ? —
Xo ; I am not aware of any. While on that point I
should like to say one thing. As I have, on several
occasions, to a certain extent, called in question
Mr. Stevenson's estimates, and the expense of his
structures, I wish to put on record my opinion that
his works are most beautiful ; that they are, I think,
equal, if not su]>erior, to anything I have seen, and
that it is to Mr. Stevenson we owe the present state
of our lighthouse illumination — for the improvements
on the P'resuel light which he has made have really
given us the superior class of lights that we have
now in England. All that has been done, that I can
see. to improve on the system, and to give us a belter
class of dioptric light, has been done by Messrs.
Stevenson, and I believe that that is quite the feeling
of every one at the Board of Trade.
907. Are you quite satisfied with the machinery
which has been at your disposal hitherto, for coij-
ducting the business connected with the erection of
lighthouses in British possessions abroad ?— I think
that Ave require more fixed engineering advice. I
think that anv Board that has to carry out lighthouse
work should have a permanent engineer attached to
it, whose duties would be confined to that subject, and
who would do it satisfactorily. Hitherto the Board
has, in carrving out colonial lights, obtained what
was considered the best class of professional assistance
in London ; but 1 do not think that on the whole it
has been satisfactory. The system of erecting lights
in the colonies with materials, as well as the working
start", sent out from England has not. I think, been a
good one. I will take the instance of the Bahama
lights. The Great Isaac's light was handed over to
the Board of Trade by the Admiralty ; but the
Cay Lobos light, at the suggestion of the engineer
engaged bv the Board of Tri de, was erected of iron,
sent out from England, together with its whole
foundation, and the working staft' to erect it. The
cost of that iron tower and buildings has altogether
exceeded 24.000/., and I believe that lights can vciy
often be erected, with material and means to be
found on the spot, at a much lower cost tlian in the
way in which they have been erected by sending
the material from England. I was told that it had
been done in consequence of the Bahamas not .afford-
ing any material fit for erecting a lighthouse ; but,
on the question being put to an engineer resident in
the Baham.as, he gave a very decided opinion, that
all the material necessary, both in stone and wood,
was obtainable in the island. And for a particular
site, at our request, he furnished us with an estimate
for building a tower and dwellings for a lighthouse
at about 5,000/., which, with the lantern and appa-
INQUIRE INTO THE CONDITION AND MANAGEMENT OF LIGHTS, BUOYS AND BEACONS.
207
ratus sent from England complete, would not exceed
8,000i. I believe, judging from the Cay Lobos
light, that if an iron tower, necessary for the light
in question, were sent from England, with people to
erect it, it would cost nearly double that sum.
The engineer employed by our consulting engineer
to erect the Bahama lights was requested to furnish
us with a report on the sites recommended for new
lighthouses before he returned, and he gave us a very
valuable report on the different sites, with plans and
sections ; but he reported, in nearly every case, that
there was no material to construct the towers, but
that iron towers must be sent from England. In proof
of his statement he brought home specimens ot the
stone ; and in the case of the verj'worstquality of stone,
which the reporting engineer had pronounced to be
lotallv untit, but which the colonial engineer declared
to be quite fit for the purpose, we have had it tested as
to its strength by Mr. Coode, the engineer of the
Portland breakwater, who has pronuuced it capable
of bearing a weight seven times as great as that
which it could be called upon to bear by being used
for building, and therefore confirming the opinion
of the colonial engineer. There are other qualities of
stone in other sites, which are still superior ; and
there can be no question that, in a hot climate, a
stone tower is far superior to an iron one, on account
of the heat ; and I cannot fancy any case in which
an iron tower, sent from England, can be desirable,
unless iu a case where there is no material to be
found. The onh' instance in which we have sent
out material which has been erected at a cheap
cost has been in the case of King George's Sound,
where a small tower was sent out, but no work-
men or statl', from England. It was erected and
dwellings built round it by local means, and a
second dwelling for a small harbour light with
the same means, and the works were erected under Capt. B. .1.
the superintendence of a sergeant of sappers, who SuUran, n.N.
acted under the orders of an officer of engineers
on the station ; and the larger light of the two has ' ^^"^^ '^^^
been erected with its dwellings, and the smaller light
jilaced in a dwelling in the harbour, at a cost alto-
gether of 5,000/., which is the cheapest work of the
kind that has been done. To the Cape of Good Hope
iron has also been sent out, and I think quite unne-
cessarily, for I believe the stone on the spot might
have answered all the purposes for one at least" of
the two lighthouses. Another iron lighthouse has
also been sent to Cape Eace, and certainly there are
great complaints of it for that climate ; and I do not
think it is likely that the Board of Trade will a" ain
erect a single lighthouse in a colony where, by any
means, material can be found on the spot, and superin-
tendence, material, and workmen. I should not myself
advise the use of iron lighthouses anywhere where
they can be possibly avoided. I may mention, as an
instance, Vancouver's Island. We decided to have
two lighthouses constructed by colonial means, and
I gave, roughly, a very low estimate for the con-
struction of those lighthouses, compared with what
iron lighthouses had cost. Both of them are on
small islands, one some way from the main, and
they have been erected with local means. The
lanterns and apparatus were sent from England ; and
although labour has been unusually high, from the
state of the colonv, exceeding II. a day for some
workmen, the cost has not very much exceeded
our original estimate. I think that the two lisrht-
houses, one being on a tower of 80 feet high, with
a second-class revolving light, and the other, a
harbour fourth-order light, on a low tower, will not
cost altogether above 12,000/.
The witness withdrew.
Mr. TnoMAS Stevexsox, C.E.,
958. (Chairman.) From your experience of the
Board of Northern Lights, do you consider that it js
necessary that an engineer should be present at every
meeting of the Board ? — In my estimation such con-
stant attendance is not absolutely called for. The
whole ordinarj' management of the lighthouses, stores,
and shipping are quite foreign to the profession of
civil engineering. It seems to be sufficient that the
engineer should attend en presenting a report on any
matter that may have been remitted to him, or in
laying before the Commissioners reports on new
works in progress. I often found it to be a very
great waste of time to be obliged to make arrange-
ments to attend meetings when my presence could be
of no use whatever.
959. Do you think it is an advantageous arrange-
ment to restrict the engineer to a Board from
examined, received February 4th. ,^ j,
engaging in general business? — No, I do not ; and it ■^'f^^^jw. C'.£.
is not consistent with my knowledge that Boards or 4 y^^ jggi
public companies employing engineers do so restrict "
them. If a man is so isolated he is very apt to lose
energy and fall behind in his professional knowledge,
whereas, if he engages in general practice he is
brought into contact with the men in his professsion,
his view.s and experience are enlarged, and he is the
better able to deal with the difficulties he may meet
with. It generally happens too that one branch of
engineering throws light upon another. For example,
if the lighthouse engineer be also a harbour engineer,
he will find that the knowledge of the action of the
waves which he is constantly acquiring in his
experience of harbour works, will be of the highest
value to him in designing beacons and light towers in
exposed situations.
Captain Sdlivax re-examined.
960. Have you any observations to make in reply
to the statement of the Commissioners of Northern
Lights, a copy of which has been shown you ? — ^^I
think nearly every point in that statement has been
answered in my previous evidence, but there are two
mistakes in the statement which I must correct.
AVith respect to the land at Ilolborn Head, the pro-
prietor at first required two roads to be made, which
would have caused an unnecessary outlay i'rom the
Mercantile Marine Fund for his advantage. We
refused to sanction any expense for roads beyond
what was necessary for the lighthouse communication
and the result was that one road along the shore
sufficient for this purpose, has at last been agreed to!
The second mistake is, that I objected in my evidence
to the lightkeepers having so much accommodation.
On the contiary, I pointed out that three rooms were
not sufficient accommodation ; and since I have been
at the Board of Trade, a fourth room has been given
in every new dwelling.
Capt. B. J.
SuUvan, R.N.
Cc4r
208
APPENDIX TO P.EPOKT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
ILLUMINATING APPARATUS.
Trinity House, London. K.C.
Sir, libth December, 18()0.
1 All directed to transmit to you, for the infonnatiou
of the Royal Commissioners on Lights, Buoys, and
Beacons, a List of Contracts for the supjily of Illuminatinuf
Apparatus to the Trinity House, or to other Boards throufrh
the Trinity House, since 1st January, 1853, m conformity
with the Kequisition dated 21st ultimo.
1 ha\-e, &c.
P. II. Bertiiox.
J. F. Campbell, Esq.
&c. &.C. &c.
List of Contracts for the supply of Illuminating Apparati'S to the Trinity Hon.^e, or to other Boards through
the Trinitv House, since 1st JanviaiT, 185^.
Date
of
Adver-
tisement.
Situation illuminating
apparatus "was designed
for, and order of ditto.
Estimate
made
Names of
Contractors who
tendered.
Amount
of
Tender.
Tender
accepted.
Lundy, Holophotal Cata-
dioptric.
* Bishop, Catadioptric -
* Whitby— South. Cata-
dioptric.
Do. South and North
do.
* Yi'hithy— North, Cata-
dioptric.
* Needles, Catadioptric
North Torcland, Cata-
dioptric.
f Cani Ivocks 2nd order,
Fixed Dioptric Appa-
ratus.
t Vancouver'.'! Island,
Hace IJock (2nd
order).
Chance, Bros.
vr. -n-ilkins
De Ville & Co.
TTilkins & Co.
J I. Sautter
Chance, Bros.
Wilkins & Co.
JI. Sautter
Chance, Bros.
JI. Lepaute
Wilkins & Co.
JI. Sautter
Chance, Bros.
Wilkins & Co.
JI. Sautter
Chance, Bros.
Chance, Bros.
JI. Lepaute
Sautter & Co.
Wilkins & Co.
Chance, Bros.
Wilkins S; Co.
Wilkins & Co.
De Tille & Co.
Chance, Bros.
With Stevenson's
improved revolv-
ing apparatus - 1,690
Without do - 1,495
- 1,635
-2,150
L.IIS 10
1,391 0
1,225 0
2,028 0
1,087 10
1,192 0
1,1)20 0
Apparatus
Ittflcctors
Optical portion SOG 0
Other Portion and
Liinteru.
£1185 15s. T<7.
Total
- 1,055
0
Apparatus
Reflectors
- 1,160
32
0
0
Total
- 1,192
0
Apparatus
- 1,1G5
0
Do.
Reflectors
964
54
10
0
Total
- I.OIS
10
Optical
Part.
£ s. J.
1,132 10 0
I 1,355 0 0
I
I 1,030 0 0
Framework,
£ s. d.
371 17 0
GOO 0 0
oS5 0 0
Chance, Bros.
1,495/.
Wilkins & Co.
l,313i 10.«.
Chance, Bros.
778/.
Chance, Bros.
l,OOSi,
Wilkins & Co.
1,087/. 10.V.
Wilkins Ss Co.
1018/. 10s.
Chance, Bros.
S06/.
Wilkins & Co.
U8.5/. 15s. "(/.
Optical Part,
Chance, Eros.
1,030/.
Framework, &c.,
Wilkins & Co.
371/. 17s.
1856:
June 30.
1858 :
Feb. 8.
April :
April.
March,
• The tenders for these four stations were invited together, and re.eard being had to the necessity of providing lighting apparatus
ot the bcst material and manufacture required for the very important stations at the Bishop and the Needles, and Inspecting
Committees having expressed doubts as to the equality of Jlessrs. Chance's lenses witli those which have been supplied by
Messrs. Wilkins. the Board resolved to accept the tenders of Jlessrs. Wilkins, although not the lowest, for the apparatus required at
those two stations, also to accept Messrs. Chalice's tenders for the apparatus required at the Whitby lighthouses, although not the
lowest, in consideration of the non-acceptance of their tenders, for the reasons above stated, for the Needles and Bishop Lights.
t Procured at the request of the Board of Trade.
ILLUMINATING APPARATUS.
209
Bate
of
Adver-
tisemen
Situation illuminating
apparatus -was designed
1 for, and order of ditto.
Amount
of
estimate
made
in
Names of
Contractors -who
tendered.
Amount
of
Tender.
Tender
accepted.
Dale
of
Contract.
1
Office.
/
f Esquimault Harbour.
(4tl> order).
]
f
Wilkins & Co. -
De Ville & Co. -
Chance, Bros.
Optical
Part,
Framework,
&c.
Optical part,
Chance, Bros.
89/.
Framework, &c.,
Wilkins & Co.
72/. 18.S-. Id.
£ s. d.
101 15 0
108 0 0
S9 0 0
£ .V. d.
72 18 7
112 0 0
82 0 0
1859:
August.
do.
t Trincomalee, Ceylon ;
Elephant Island (4th
order).
2
Wilkins & Co. -
De Ville & Co. -
Chance, Bros.
117 10 0
145 0 0
115 0 0
25 10 0
50 0 0
27 0 0
Wilkins & Co.,
Optical part,
t U"/. 10*.
Framework, &c.,
25/. lOs.
November.
1
1
t Foul Point (2nd
order).
Smalls (1st order)
1 i
o
K
Wilkins & Co. -
De Ville & Co. -
Chance, Bros.
Wilkins & Co. -
Chance, Bros.
1,115 5 0
1,260 0 0
1,060 0 0
369 15 0
562 0 0
411 0 0
Optical part,
Chance, Bros.,
1,060/.
Framework, &c.,
Wilkins & Co.,
369/. 15s.
Optical part.
Chance, Bros.,
1429/.
Lamps, &c..
Wilkins & Co.,
174/. 15s.
do.
do.
Optical
Part.
Lamps, &c.
V
£ ... d.
1,49G UP 0
1,429 0 0
£ s. d.
174 15 0
190 10 0
1860:
June
do.
Trinily House
contracts and
tenders.
f Procured at the request of the Board of Trade.
i This tender accepted, it being considered that the gain of 4 weeks in the time of manufacture counterbalanced the small
additional cost of 2/. 10.s'.
Light Vessels, &c.
Between the 1st January, 1853, and June 1860, catopric
apparatus was supplied by Messrs. Wilkins, and when in-
tended for a light vessel was included with the lantern in
one estimate. The ajiparatus for the Guntleet Lighthouse
in 1855, was distinct and the price for a " revolving appa-
" ratus showing red light bv 3 Iam])s, and parabolic reflectors
" on each face of a triangular frame " was 49-1/. 4s. Since
1857, the price of catoptric apparatus has been included in
Messrs. Wilkins' price lists, extracts from which are sub-
joined, \iz., —
1858.
1859.
18G0.
£ s. a.
£ s. d.
Argand lamps,
— Lifrhthouse
1 12 9
1 12 9
1 12 9
Liiyht vessel
2 9 3
2 9 3
Il«(lector3
Lighthouse
21 7 t!
21 7 0
Light vessel
4 9 0
4 9 G
Burners - -
liighthouse
13 1!
12 6
Light vessel
12 6
1 2 U
12 6
The apparatus for the Varne light vessel was included in
the same tender as the lantern, but was supplied pursuant
to public advertisement, as under.
Date
of
Adver-
tisement.
Situation illuminating
apparatus was designed
for, and order of ditto.
Amount
of
Estimate
made
in
Office.
Names of
Contractors who
tendered.
Amount
of
Tender.
Tender
accepted.
Date
of
Contract.
1860.
Jlay
Varne light vessel, float-
ing light, lantern, and
revolving apparatus.
No
Estimate.
Wilkins & Co. -
De Ville & Co. -
384/. 2s. 3(/. in six weeks.
449/. in 18 weeks.
Messrs. Wilkins
1860
June,
Trinity House,
I'bth December, 1860.
P. H. Berthox,
Secretary.
Dd
210
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
SPECIFICATIONS FOR ILLUMINATING APPARATUS BY THE THREE
LIGHTHOUSE BOARDS.
arranijement is styled " Azimuthal condensing," and was
contrived by Mr. Stevenson. A light of this kind was visited
and seen alight by the Commissioners in the Sound of Skye,
and was found to be effective ; a comparatively small lamp
giving a verj^ brilliant light where required, and being
effectually masked elsewhere.
The apparatus at St. Abb's Head is of a less complicated
description. It is a revolving light, with eight panels, and
shows less design.
The apparatus for Rona is revohnng, and consists of a
series of reflectors of a peculiar form, fitted with lenses in
front, an arrangement called "' Holophotal."
All these are working drannngs, the designs of Messrs.
Stevenson, the engineers employed by the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses, but who are not permanently
attached to the ser-(-ice.
The written specifications contain full details as to the
constiiiction of nearly all parts of the apparatus, including
glass, metal, and machinery.
" Northern Lighthouses Office,
" Sib, Edinburgh. 11th April, 1S60.
" With reference to your letter of the 28th ulto., I am
now directed by the Commissioners I'f Northern Lighthouses to
state, that the course pursued by the Commissioners in obtaining
tenders for an illuminaKngl lenticular apparatus, used to be by
advertisment ; but now, under orders from the Board of Trade,
the specifications and plans are printed, and sent to certain trades-
men pointed out by them, viz ; —
Simpson and Co., Deville and Co., London ; Chance,
Birmingham ; Sautter and Co., of Paris.
'* I also send herewith specifications and working drawings —
1 and il. St. Abb's Head — machine and glass work.
3 and 4. Drun, Cautickhend, and Brcssey Sound —
machine and reflectors.
5. Mac .\rthur s Head — apparatus.
" These are accompanied by eight working drawings, among
which will be found the drawings prepared in the case of
]\Iac.\rthur's Head, to enable the light to be properly arranged in
the light-room, and cutt-off'and changes of colour to be effectually
laid off, so that the light may fulfil the objects for which it was
designed. ' I am. Sir,
Your most obedient Ser%-anl,
Specifications On the I'Sth March, 18()(>, a letter was addressed to the
/or illuminating three Lighthouse Boards, of which the following is a copy : —
apparatus. jj^^j.^j Commission, Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, iliilbank Street, S.W., London,
S,r., March 28, 1860.
1 am directed to request that you will move the Elder
Brethren of the Trinitv House (the Commissioners of Northern
Lighthouses) (the Ballast Board) to cause the Commissioners to be
intiirmed — what is the course pursued by them in ordering a lenti-
cular illuminating apparatus for a new sitefrom the manufacturer;
and to furnish the Commissioners with copies of the plans, specifi-
cations, &c., actuallv submitted to the manufacturers in ordering
the last two sets ol' lenticular apparatus of large size, or peculiar
form, which have been purchased.
I am also to request that similar information may be furnished
with reference to catoptric apparatus, and with as little delay as
possible.
1 am. Sir.
P. H. Berthon, Esq. 'Sour obedient Senant,
S.C. ic. &c. ' J. F. CA5IPBELL, Sccrctarv.
On the 3rd of April the reply of the Trinity House was
sent. The commissioners of Northern Lighthouses sent
their reply on the 1 Ith, and the reply of the Ballast Board
was sent on the loth of December.
The letter of the Trinity House was as follows, and the
forms and drawings referred to therein were printed forms
and lithographed drawings.
In the case of the North Foreland and Whitby Light-
houses, the specification consists of one of the forms filled
up, with the number of horizontal degrees intended to be
illuminated, and the number of panels required, and in each
See CircularX.ca.se provision is made for large reflectors to be fitted in
Vol IT. ' the " vacant central refractor panels.' The dimensions are
given, but the Uthograjihed drawings do not include the
reflectors, and no mention is made of the elevation at which
the light is to be placed above the sea level.
In the case of reflector lights, as stated in the letter,
there is no departure from the old system, which is, to
direct Messrs. Wilkins to supply a certain well-known form
of apparatus.
Trinitv House, London,
Sir, ' 3rd April 1860.
I am directed to transmit to you the enclosed Return in
replv to your letter dated 2Sth ultimo,' relating to the mode of pro-
cedure ill ordinary lighting apparatus.
I have the honour to be.
Your most obedient servant,
J. F. Campbell, Esq.,
&c„
Roval Commission i
P. H. Berthon.
Trinily Hjuse.
Scotch Board.
" Return to REijirisiTioN, dated 28th JIarch 1860.
" The course pursued in ordering a lenticular illuminating ap-
paratus for a new site trom the manufacturer, nnth copies of the
plans, specifications, &e., actually submitted to manufacturers, in
oidering the last two sets of lenticular apparatus of large size, or
peculiar form, which have been purchased. Similar infoimation
with reference to catoptric apparatus.
" .\s regards lenticular apparatus, the course would be to send
copies of the enclosed Forms A. and B. to Messrs. Wilkins and
Messrs. Deville, Lcndon, and to Jlessrs. Chance, Birmingham, and
of A. only to Messrs. Lepaute and Messrs. Sautter (Letourneau),
Paris.
" Copies of plans and specifications actually submitted to manu-
facturers in ordering the last two sets — thos'e for the North Fore-
land and the Whitby— are transmitted. These were sent to the
firms above mentioned.
•' The Commissioners will observe that in these the optical
portion is not separated from the lamps framework and fitting up
at the station. The plan of dividing the work has not yet been
cirricd out at any of the Corporation's own lighthouses, but has
been adopted wiih cconomv and success in regard to apparatus
for certain foreign and colonial lights which the Elder Brethren
have procured at the request of the Board of Trade. This course
has been pursued with the view of including the French firms in
the competition. The manufacturer of lamps, frames, &c.. being
an entirely distinct speciality to that of glass, advantages both as to
qualitv and cheapness result from ilealing with each separately.
" In the case of catoptric appatatns. the romse pursued would
be to order Messrs. Wilkins to furnish it, in comformily with the
List of Prices offered by them, and approved by the Board, at the
commencement of each year."
Trinity House, London, P. H. Bekthos,
3rd April 1861). Secretary.
The letter of the Commissioners of Northern Lighthouses
was as follows, and was accompanied by nine large and very
well executed drawings of the apparatus ordered for
St. Abb's Head, and MacArthur's Head, lens lights; and
for Rona, a reflector light.
The apparatus for Mac.\rthur's Head consists of numerous
ingenious contrivances for throwing light of various colours
and intensities in different directions so as to use advanta-
geouslv as much as possible of the light produced. The
Secretary."
On the 18th December 1860 the following letter was
received : —
Ballast Office, Dublin,
Sir. 15th December 1860.
I am directed by the Port of Dublin Corporation to stale to
you in reply to your letter of the 2Sth March 1860, *4s^ "''" '' '^^
not the jiractice of the Corporation to give a specification for a
lenticular apparatus. When such are required forms of tender are
sent to parties competent to supply such, of whom there are only
two or three in the United Kingdom, setting forth the arc intended
to be illuminated, the number of panels and zones required, and that
the apparatus shall be of the best quality and fitted together
correctlv, holding the manufacturer responsible for its efficiency.
Copy of a tender for a first order apparatus is sent herewith.
No catopric apparaus has been erected by this Board for many
years, nor is it intended again to have recourse to that mode of
light. I am, &c„
W. Lees, Secretarj-.
day of 186
propose to supply to the Port of Dublin Corporation for a fixed
light ot' the order dioptric apparatus to light all
round the horizon with lamp, ventilating tube, stand, &c.
Of the optical portion, the glass to be of the best quality used
for such apparatus, and free from any faults which would lessen
the efliciency of the light ; all the parts to be truly formed and
finished in the best manner.
The eight panels forming a portion of a cylinder around the
light, and the panels comprising the upper and lower tiers of
catodioptric zones are to be securely mounted in gun metal
frames supported on wrought iron framing aud uprights fitted to
the cast iron stand. The whole to be fitted together in the best
manner and to admit of being adjusted with perfect accuracy for
the sum of sterling for apparatus, two 1-imps, two
spare burners, ventilating tubes, stand, double packing cases, car-
riage to stores, and all charges included. The apparatus to be
completed and delivered at the lighthouse stores, Northwall, Dublin,
within from date ot acceptance lender being notified,
and to be paid for within weeks after full completion of
the contract.
(Manufacturers are requested to forward to the Engineer of the
Corporation an outline plan, section, and specification of apparatus
proposed to be supplied.)
(Signed)
(Residence)
To the Secretary, \
Ballast Office. J
The Corporation will not hold themselves bound to accept the
lowest tender.
This tender, sealed, is to be delivered (through post) at the
Secretary's Office, before 12 o'clock noon, on day of above date.
The practice then of these three authorities differs widely. See Report,
p. 30.
CASES OF CONVICTION FOR OFFENCES.
211
CASES OF CONVICTION OF LIGHT KEEPERS FOR OFFENCES;
TRINITY HOUSE.
The folloiving Jietiiryi s/ioivs the State of Discipline of the Light Service in Etigtnnd.
Trinity House, London, E.C.,
Sir, 1st February 18(J1.
I AM directed to transmit to you for the information
of the Royal Commissioners on Lights, Buoys, and Bea-
cons, a list of the cases in which keepers of lighthouses or
lightships have been convicted by the Corporation of
Trinity House of offences or derelictions of duty since
1853, \\\i\\ a statement of the course pursued in these
cases, in conformity with your requisition dated 29th No-
vember last.
I am, &c.,
J. F. Campbell, Esq., P. H. Berthon.
&c. &c. &c.
A List of the C.\ses in which Keepers of Lighthouses
or Lightships have been convicted by the Corpora-
tion of Trinity House of Offences or dereliction of
Duty since 1853, with a Statement showing the course
pursued in these cases.
1854.
Lighthouse Service.
irth January. — Principal keeper. — Receiving lodgers at
his dwelling contrary to regulations.
Reduced to assistant and superannuated as such.
Assistant at same station. — Receiving lodgers at his
dwelling contrary to regulations.
Put back two steps in promotion. Severely reprimanded
and cautioned.
Assistant at same station. — Receiving lodgers at his
dwelling contrarj- to regulations.
Removed to another station. Severely reprimanded and
cautioned.
11th April. — Two assistants. — Disagreement and bad
feeling between them. They had not spoken to each other
for \2 months.
Both reprimanded and cautioned to live on good terms
for the future ; directed to give a joint assurance of their
intention to do so, and to perform their respective duties in
a pro])er and peaceful manner, and acquainted that if they
persist in their present course they will be removed.
1856.
9th October. — Principal. — Having communicated direct
with the commandant of a neighbouring fort without the
Bo.ard's penni.5sion to do so.
Charge investigated by Visiting Committee, and being
substantiated, accused was reprimanded for such iiTegular
])roceeding. Cautioned to be more circumspect for the
future, and desired to send any representation he may have
to make to the Board through the agent.
1857.
21st and 28th May. — Assistant. — Having made use of
very abusive language to principal keeper, being the worse
for drink ; want of cleanliness, disrespect to agent, and
general unfitness for the charge of a lighthouse.
Dismissed with one quarter's pay.
18th August. — Assistant keeper. — Occasionally giving
way to intoxication.
Discharged from the service.
1st September. — Assistant keeper. — Absence from duty
during three nights and days, caused by drunkenness ;
charge admitted and reason assigned, that he was led away
by bad company to witness a regatta.
Dismissed the ser\'ice.
1858.
18th May. — Principal and assistant keeper. — Light appa-
ratus found by an Inspecting Committee in a dirty and
inefRcient condition.
Both reprimanded and cautioned as to future conduct.
Assistant put back two steps in his promotion, and removed
to another station.
Sth June. — Assistant keeper. — Having struck the other
assistant because the latter had charged him with neglect of
duty, and being generally quai-ielsome.
Dismissed the service.
7th October. — Assistant. — Neglect of duty, &c.
Reprimanded and admonished as to hi§ future conduct.
1859.
"th June. — Assistant. — Leaving lighthouse from 9 a.m. conuicions of
until midnight on one' occasion, and continually absent- servants.
ing himself from the station to work as a carpenter at a
neighbouring farm house, and his disrespectful behaviour
when spoken to on the subject by principal keeper.
Severely reprimanded, and threatened with removal to a
rock station on a suitable opportunity.
19th July. — Principal and assistant keeper. — Coming on
shore for the day once a month ^^^thout asking leave of the
agent beforehand.
Both were informed that they had incurred the displeasure
of the Elder Brethren, and the surprise of the Board was
expressed to the assistant that the caution given him on a
former occasion should not have been attended \rith a better
result.
30th August. — Principal keeper. — Charged by assistant
with being asleej) in the house during his turn to keep
watch, the light in the lantern nearly out, and ndth using
threatening and abusive language on the assistant awaking
him.
Having admitted Ijeing absent from his post during his
watch, he was reduced to rank of assistant, and removed to
another station.
Sth September. — Assistant keeper. — Tliat the foregoing
charges «ere brought by him against the principal keeper
from private and malicious reasons.
Removed to another station.
17th November. — Assistant keeper. — Complaint by
master gunner of neighbouring fort of his proceedings in
depriving him of certain perquisites, and causing bad feeling
on the pai't of the military towards himself (the master
gunner).
Cautioned as to his future proceedings.
15th December. — Assistant keeper. — Having been seen
in a state of intoxication when on shore.
Being called upon for explanation of his conduct, he for-
warded a petition, stating, that if his offence were over-
looked in this instance, he would never again be guilty of
similar misconduct ; whereu])on he was re-instated in his
position with a se\'ere reprimand and caution.
1860.
2fith April. — Principal and assistant keeper. — Gross
neglect of duty and want of cleanliness of the establishment
(reported by an inspecting committee).
Expression of Board's extreme displeasure conveyed to
both.
Principal cautioned that if reports of future Committees
do not show that a decided improvement has taken
place he will be removed to a station where he will be
under more immediate supervision, and reduced to the
rank of assistant keeper during pleasure.
Assistant cautioned and informed he will be expected to
use his best exertions in placing the establishment on a
footing in regard of cleanliness with the other lighthouses
of the corporation.
yth May. — Assistant keeper. — Commanding officer of
neighbouring garrison i'e])orted the conduct of the assistant
keeper in stabbing one of the corporals in the mouth when
under the influence of liquor, and in subsequently giving
him a severe blow in the eye which knocked him down,
and also for taking his men out of barracks at night on a
previous occasion contrary to orders, which had been re-
ported to the principal keeper.
Assistant was at once dismissed the ser\'ice, and the
principal severely reprimanded for not having reported the
fii'st offence of the assistant.
21 St June. — Principal and assistant keeper. — An officer
of Royal Artillery preferred a complaint against one of the
keepers for demanding a fee of Is. for showing the light-
house.
Explanation ha\'ing been required of principal keeper,
and the same being unsatisfactory, both keepers were
severely reprimanded, and a notice of the circumstance, and
the occasion of it, sent to each establishment, with a caution
that any keeper demanding payment for showing the light-
houses wUl render himself liable to dismissal from the
service.
7th August. — Principal and assistant keeper. — Con-
tinued and systematic neglect, the visiting committee
having found that this light is the solitary exception to the
high state of ciSciency in which ail tl'.e other stations were
found.
Dd 2
212
ArPEXDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Principal cautioner! tliat unless improvement take place
he will be removed and reduced to rank of assistant durbg
pleasure.
Assistant reprimanded and removed to another station.
23rd October. — Principal keeper. — Disagreements with
assistant keepers and boatmen, occasioned in some measure
as agent states, by the disposition of keeper's wife and her
dislike to the jilace.
Cautioned that any further complaint being made of his
conduct, or that of his wife, he^^^ll be disrated and removed,
and also reminded of his having been under the Board's
displeasure when stationed elsewhere.
Officers and men reprimanded for not keeping a better
look out. Superintendent directed to caution the officers
and crew of eveiy lightvessel that similar instances of ne-
glect on the part of those who may have the watch will not
be overlooked in future.
1857.
10 November. — Seaman. — Ha\'ing absented himself on
several occasions without leave, and not proceeding on
board with the rehef.
Dismissed the ser\-ice.
Li'jhtvessel Service.
I85i.
14th February. — Carpenter. — Ha\-ing on two occasions
absented himseljf for several days without leave, and not
making his appearance until after the rehef had left.
Dismissed the ser\-ice.
25th April.— Crew of a lightvessel. — Refusing to relieve
the keeper of the spare hghtvessel when on shore.
Ordered to take their turn in spare lightvessel, as cus-
tomary, and acquainted that any one refusing will be
immediatelv dismissed the service.
9th May" — Two of the same crew.— Refusing to obey
the order to relieve the ship-keeper.
Dismissed the service.
23rd May. — Six of the same crew. — Refusing to obey the
order to relieve the ship-kee])er.
Dismissed the service.
20th June. — Seaman. — Drunkenness and abusive lan-
guage.
Dismissed the service.
25th July and 8lh August. — Four seamen. — Fighting on
board the hghtvessel.
One dismissed, the other three removed to the most out-
lying stations.
*2Sth November. — Seaman. — Having heard of the death
of his wife in London, tjuitted his vessel to see her biu-ied
without obtaining leave of the officer in charge.
Reprimanded for so aljseuting himself, btit under the
circumstances retained in the service.
*3l3t August. — Master carpenter, two lamplighters, two
seamen. — Found by visiting committee asleep in their
hammocks and off watch, about mid-day.
Removed to outlying stations.
5th December. — Two seamen. — No signal shown on the
" Irene " passing, that the steamer was observed before her
boat had been lowered down, the accused ha\-ing the watch
at the time.
Both fined one week's pay for their neglect.
1855.
12th April. — Laraphghter. — Complaint by mate of his
insubordinate conduct when proceeding out with the relief,
and of his being occasionally given to acts of intemperance
when on shore.
Dismissed the service.
27th September. — Seaman. — Misconduct and insubor-
dination reported by master of lightv'essel.
Superintendent having stated that he is a good working
hand, has been sc\-eral years in the service, and is not
given to drink, and that no previous complaint has beeu
made against him, he was retained in the serrice with a
reprimand and caution.
1856.
8th January. — Lamplighter. — Instd^ordinate and nolent
conduct when in a state of intoxication, on board the hght-
vessel (reported by the master).
Discharged from the service.
12th February. — Seaman. — Improper language and con-
duct towards master of the hghtvessel.
Having been ordered to attend the Committee, and de-
cUning to so he was discharged.
(ith May. — Seaman. — Complaint by mate and crew of
lightvessel, of insubordinate and unbecoming conduct.
Period of service of accused being adverted to he was
exchanged into another lightvessel, and cautioned that on
any renewed comjilaint he would be dismissed.
17 June. — Seaman. — Having been informed by agent
(when on duty in the tender) of the hour of saiUng, he did
not come on i)oard at time ajipointed, and had been on
shore drinking.
Having previously committed himself in the same manner
he was discharged from the service.
14 August — Masters oroflicers in charge and those of the
crews on duty, on board three lightvessels. — Reported by
committee for not keeping watch on the morning of 2r)th
July 1856.
1859.
(j January. — Seaman and Carpenter. — Disjiute betn-een
them while a shipwTecked crew were on board the light-
vessel, in the course of which the language they used
towards each other was stated to be the most disgraceful.
These statements ha\'ing been considered, the seaman
was put back two steps in his promotion, and removed to
another lightvessel. ITie carpenter was continued in the
original vessel, and both were severely reprimanded.
22 March. — Seaman. — Hanng altered the date of his
certificate of birth for the purpose of bringing himself
within the regulation in regard to the age of persons eligible
for appointment to the service.
Correct date being ascertained he was discharged.
7 April. — Seaman. — Insubordination in refusing to re-
main on board the lightvessel the third month in his turn,
in consequence of another of the crew having been rendered
unfit for duty by accident.
Dismissed the sen'ice.
12 July. — Seaman. — Reported by superintendent for
having approjjriated a piece of plank, the property of a
builder at work on the wharf.
Sus])ended from duty, but the owner of the wood having
stated that he considers it was taken through mistake, the
seaman was reprimanded and cautioned to be more circimi-
spect, and re-instated.
13 December. — Four seamen. — Comjilaint by mate of
insubordination and neglect of duty when on board the
lightvessel.
Charges having been investigated by committee, two of
the four men who were then on shore were dismissed at
once ; the other two as soon as they could conveniently be
landed.
1860.
2.9 March. — Two seamen. — Complaint by master of the
disobedience of his orders.
Both were dismissed the sennce.
8 May. — Two seamen. — Report by mate of a fight bet^veen
them.
Both reprimanded, one removed to another lightvessel.
1!) July. — Two seamen. — Accused of taking old stores
and selling them.
Prosecuted at the assizes, and acquitted for want of
evidence ; subsequently discharged from the ser^'ice.
1 1 December. — Two seamen. — Report by master of
steamer that he had the signal displayed for the boat from
the lightvessel to come to him for 20 minutes, but that it
was not observed until the steamer was nearing the
light.
Explanation required of master of lightvessel, and the
accused who had the watch at the time were severely repri-
manded, and cautioned against the repetition of a similar
neglect of duty.
27 December. — Carpenter. — Taking away from the hght-
vessel, on his coming ashore and quitting the sernce,
certain tools the property of the corporation.
Articles having been recovered, accused was allowed to
go free after a suitable admonition, agent ha%Tng stated
that he seemed much impressed by his situation and the
impropriety of his conduct.
1861.
10 January. — Seaman. — Rejiorted by the mate to have
disobeyed his orders, and used abusive language.
Reprunanded for his conduct, and removed to another
vessel.
Number of men in hghthouse service - ISfi
„ in hghtvessel service - 391
Total
547
Trinity House,
31st January 1861.
OBSERVATIONS OF THE DEPUTY-MASTER OP TRINITY HOUSE ON SCILLY, &C.
213
OBSERVATIONS OF THE DEPUTY MASTER OF THE TRINITY HOUSE ON THE RELIEFS
AND EXPENSE OF KEEPERS' DWELLINGS AT SCILLY.
Royal Commission, Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, Millbank Street, S.W., London.
Dear Admiral Gordon, 23rd February 1861.
I BEG to forward extracts from a letter addressed to
me as Chairman of this Commission. They include the
expression of certain views regarding Lighthouse manage-
ment, accompanied by something like strictures on parti-
cular points of that management.
You would greatly obHge me if you will obtain for me in
general terms, and as concisely as practicable, the observa-
tions of the Elder Brethren on the accompanying remarks.
Some of them I can quite anticipate, but on one or two
points, such as the undue expense of the residences of the
Bishops Lightkeeper, and how those residences came to
he fixed at St. Mary's instead of St. Agnes, I can, of
course, only be enlightened by the Elder Brethren.
As the writer of the letter from which I send extracts has
every claim to attention, I have thought it right to
furnish you with his remarks ; and I should ha very glad
of as early a reply to them as the business of the Elder
Brethren would enable you to furnish me with.
Believe me,
Yours vei-y truly,
W. A. B. Hamilton.
Rear Admiral Robt. Gordon.
Trinity House, 4th March 1861.
Dear Admiral Hamilton,
With reference to the questions contained in your
letter of the 23rd December, it will perhaps be suiBcicnt if
I say that the system of distinct classes for lighthouse
keepers, and the crews of light vessels, is the result of long
])ractical experience with hghtvessels on all parts of the
coasts of England, and that " mental and physical inferi-
ority "' in their crews has never yet heen apparent to the
Elder Brethren.
The " Seven Stones " Lightvessel is within signal dis-
tance of St. Martin's Head, near Trescow, where the Agent
resides, and where the cutter is stationed. The crew of the Keepers^
" Seven Stones " also live there in readiness for any dwellings cost.
emergency.
It requires seamen and men of some ner\'e to be useful
in the e\-ent of the vessel breaking adrift in one of those
gales to which she is exposed.
Applications for removal always receive due considera-
tion. The men themselves are quite satisfied \vith the
arrangements as to the reliefs.
The regulations for promotion ensvire the utmost fairness
to all employed in the service.
The junior keeper at St. Agnes was sent there after 12
months probation (with others) at the wharf at BlackwaU.
I cannot learn that there was any particular reason for
sending him to St. Agnes.
The regulations now in force would place the recipient of
3, first appointment in a Hock Lighthouse.
The clweUings for the keepers of the Bishop Rock Light-
house were built at St. Mary's, because we have no spare
ground at St. Agnes, and because difficulties were overcome
by obtaining ground from the Government on favourable
tei-ms. The cost of these dwellings is considerably more
than those built at " Senan Cove " for the Longships Light-
keepers. The former, 2,100/. (including 1,100 feet of stone
houndary), and they are in every respect perfect in their
construction and accommodation, and are likely to be
durable for many years to come ; whereas the Longships
dwellings were built by local contract for 1,374/. Ss. 3f/., in
order to meet the views of the Board of Trade in respect of
economy.
They are already constantly requiring repairs, and
wiU, I fear, prove in the long run very costly.
I em not a^^■are of having overlooked any material point,
but I shall be ready to give any further explanation you
may require.
Believe me,
Y'our's very truly,
Robt. Gordon.
Rear Admiral Hamilton.
CIRCULAR XIII.
THE FOLLOWING CIRCULAR LETTER WAS SENT TO THE OWNERS OF STEAMBOATS
AVHICH P:iSS WHITBY LIGHTS.
Royal Commission, Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
Sir, 7, Millbank Street, S.\V., London.
I HAVE to request that you will be pleased to desire the Masters of Steamers belonging to your Company, who are
in the habit of passing the Whitby Lights, to make observations on the present appearance of those Lights, in the
following form ; as a change has been made in one of the Lights, and the Royal Commission are anxious to ascertain the
effect of the alteration.
I am. Sir,
Y'our obedient Servant,
(Signed) J. F. CAMPBELL, Secretary.
Return from
, Cajjtain trading between
of the appearance of the Whitby Lights.
and
Date.
Time.
Weather.
Compass
Be.iring of
Lights.
Estimated
Distance.
Comparison.
f much brighter than. ~|
South 1 rather brighter than 1 North
Light. -1 as bright as )■ Light.
1 ratlier less bright than |
(^much less bright tiian J
Specimen.
1860.
Dec. nth
Dec. 15th
10 P.M.
•2 A.M.
-
S.W. I S.
S.S.W.
About 15 M.
About 3 M.
Soutii much brighter than north.
South much less bright than north.
Note, — It is requested that this Return may be sent by post, unpaid, to the address on the back of the page, without fail, by
December 25th, or earlier, if six observations on different nights have been made,
Dd3
214
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
Whilby Lights.
Evidence of
Mariners.
Circular XIII.
Return from the " Wans1)eck." Captain Thomas Butcher, trading between London and Newcastle, of the appearance of
the Whitby Lights.
Comparison.
Date.
Time.
Weather.
Cotnpass
Bearing of
Estimated
Cmuch brighter than
South J '^•,'"'.^):,"ehter than Ijj^^^
T - u^ "i ^ bnent as S t ■ i_
^'g'"- 1 rather less bright than f ^'S*"-
Lights.
Distance.
l^much less bright ihan
1860.
Dec. 10th
6 P.M.
Fine but dark.
N.W.
4 M.
South much brighter than north.
„ 12th
8 P.M.
Fine starlight.
S.S.W.
10 M.
South brighter than north.
„ 17th
9 30 P.M.
Cloudy wealher.
N.W.
11 M.
South brighter than north.
..
H P.M.
..
W.
4 m.
North as bright as south.
Ge.ntlemes, — My personal remark is that the south is brighter than the north ; as on several times I have passed remarks
on the difference of the two lights. I a"", Gentlemen,
Thomas Bl'tcher,
Return from the " Earl of Aberdeen " Steamer, Captain Thos. Howling, trading between Aberdeen and London, of the
appearance of the Whitby Lights.
1860.
Dec. 13th
5 P.M.
Clear.
N.W.
About 13 M.
Soutli rather brighter than i
orth.
6 15 P.M.
W.
About 8 M.
South as bright as north.
7 20 P.M.
Cloudy.
S.W. i s.
About 12 M.
South as bright as north.
Dec. 20th
4 50 p M.
Clear.
s.w. i w.
About 14 M.
South as bright as north.
5 30 P.M.
W. bv N.
About 6 M.
South as bright as north.
" "
7 0 P.M.
N.W. by N.
About 13 M.
South as bright as north.
Gentlemen, — I was careful in observing those lights on all bearings between N.W. and S.S.W., and could not observe ar
difference in them. I consider them to be splendid bright and clear lights. Your's respectfully,
Thos. Howli.sc, Master.
Return from the "Neptune " Steamer. Captain William EUiott, trading betneen Hull and Newcastle, of the appearance
the Whitby Lights.
1860.
Dec. 2d
Hazy.
W.N.W.
About 8 M.
South rather brighter than north.
Dec. 8th
6 P.M.
„
S. bv W.
About 6 It.
South rather brighter than north.
Dec. 1 3th
Clear.
N.W.
About 12 M.
South much brighter tlian north.
Dec. 13th
8 30 P.M.
W.
About 5 M.
South much brinluer than north.
9 45 P.M.
S.W.iS.
About 10 M.
South rather brighter than north.
Dec. 16th
5 15 P.M.
N.W. by N. iN.
About 10 M.
South much brighter than north.
Dec. 23rd
1 1 30 P.St.
N.W. by N.
About 12 M.
South much brighter than north.
Dec. 24th
2 0 A.M.
W. bv S.
About 7 M.
South rather brigliter than north.
3 30 A.M.
S.W. by S. A S.
About 14 M.
South rather brighter than north.
Return from the " Countess of Lonsdale," Captain W. Phillips, trading beh^'een London and Edinburgh, of the
appearance of the Whitby Lights.
I860.
r 6 P.M.
Cloudy.
W.N.W.
From 3 to T
Dee. nth
\ till
to
about 12 \
South light as bright as north light.
L 9 p.Jr.
S.W. by S.
miles.
r 6 30 P.M.
Clear.
S.S.W.
From about
Dec. 16th
\ till
to
15 miles I
South light as bright as the north light.
[ extinguished.
W.S.W.
to 3 miles.
It may not be impertinent to add. that having been requested to pay particular attention to the appearance of Whitby lights myself
I,wilhout making such known to officers and passengers, called their attention to them, requesting them to tell me which of the two
they considered the brighter light, wlien all agreed with me that both were good, and one no less bright than the other. W.P.
Return from the " Al)erdeenshire," Captain Wm. Talbot, trading betAveen Aberdeen and Hull, of the appearance of the
Whitby Lights.
I860.
Dec. 12th
5A PM.
South rather brighter than north.
Return from the " Brilliant," Captain Gardner, trading beUveen Leith and Hull, of the appearance of the
WTiitby Lights.
1860.
Dec. 13th
Clear.
.W.
About 8 M.
Both alike bright.
Dec. 19th
S.W.
„
Dc. do.
i W. by N.
About 10 M.
South much less brighter than north.
Dec. 25 th
3 A.M.
„
W. by S.
About 8 M.
South not much less brighter than north.
1861.
(sic.)
Jan. 5th
AV. by N.
About 10 M.
South much less brighter than north.
11 A.M.
W.
About 8 M.
Both alike bright.
"
12 P.M.
"
S.S.W.
About 16 M.
South light not visible, north clear.
Summitry of
this Evidence.
This circular was intended to test practically the result of the changes which had been made at the instance of the Com-
mission in the .setting of the ai)paratus, &c., and in the lamp at South Whitby. See accounts of these proceedings (ante).
These obser\-ations iniroc generally with those made by the Commission after the change, in that the soiitli light showed
much brighter than the north tit short distances, and" brighter generally. l"he difiBculty of ctimparing two distant lights
of nearly equal power, even placed side by side, is very great, and re(|uires practice or some instrument to assist the eye.
The result, however, was not so favourable as had been' anticipated, and it was thought desirable to try to discover a reason.
See jiapers which follow.
CONSUMPTION OF OIL AT WHITBY, &e.
215
CONSUMPTION OF OIL AT WHITBY.
Wldtby Lights.
Trinity House, London, E.C.,
Sir, 2Jd October 1860.
I am directed to acknowledge receipt of your letter
dated 20th instant, relative to the consumption of oil at
the Whitby Lighthouses, and in reply, I am to transmit to
y(m the accompanying return.
I have, &c.
J. F. Campbell, Esq., P. H. Berthon.
&c. &c.
CoNSUMPTio.v of Oil at the North Whitby Lighthouse
on the undermentioned nights.
October,
Time of
LightinR.
Time of ex-
tinguishing
the Light.
Oil consumed.
1860.
Hrs.
Mill.
Hrs.
Min.
Gals.
Qts.
Pints.
4Pts.
Gills.
5th.
5
31
6
8
2
_
1
Gth.
5
as
B
10
2
1
1
7th.
5
!>B
6
11
2
1 1
—
8th.
5
22
6
IS
2
1
—
9th.
5
22
«
15
2
1
—
lOth.
5
19
«
16
3
—
—
11th.
5
15
6
18
3
—
—
—
12th.
5
13
H
20
3
1
—
1
13th.
6
11
H
21
3
—
—
l«h.
6
8
6
25
3
—
1
15th.
5
R
6
25
3
—
1
Itith.
S
4
6
26
3
—
17th.
5
-
C
38
3
~
~
1
Consumption of Oil at the South Whitby Lighthouse
on the undermentioned nights
7th.
8th.
9th.
10th.
11th.
12th.
13th.
14th.
15th.
16th.
17th.
Time of ex-
tinguisliing
the Light.
Gals. Qts. Pints. iPts. Gill:
Trinity House, London, B.C.,
23d October 1860.
P. H. Berthon,
Secretary.
were subsequently sent of the consumption of Consumption of
\orth and South Whitby lighthouses dm'ing the "''•
Returns ■
oil at the North and South Whitby lighthouses ctm'ing
month of December, from which it appeared that the total
quantity consumed was
North — 71 gallons, 3 cpiarts, li pint, 1 gill.
South — 71 do. 3 do. 1 do.
In consequence a letter was written to which the following
is a reply : —
Trinity House, London, E.G.,
Sir, February 14, 1861.
I AM directed to acknowledge receipt of your letter,
dated 31st ultimo, with reference to the returns called for
by the Royal Commission on Lights, as to the consumption
of oil at the Whitby Lighthouses in December and January
last, and expressing the great surprise of the Commissioners
that the consumption (for the month of December) is
71 gallons, 3 quarts, 1 pint, and 71 gallons, 3 quarts, 1 pint,
1 half pint respectively, and inquu'ing whether any, and if
any, what instructions were given to the keejjer of the
South Light as to the maintenance of a high flame after
the recent change in the lamp ; and whether any, and if any,
what notice has been taken of the circumstance of the con-
sumption of oil in the mechanical lamp being identical or
almost so with the consumption in the North Lighthouse ;
and in reply I am to state, for the information of the Com-
missioners, that Mr. James Chance, in his report to Pro-
fessor Faraday, dated 17th November last (with a copy of
which the Commissioners ba\'e been furnished), informed
that gentleman that he bus at present provided the South
Lighthouse temporarily with two good mechanical 4-wick
lamps, but that he proposes sending ultimately two pressure
4-wick lamps, which he prefers ; and that, pending the
completion of this arrangement and the result of the ex-
periments with pressure lamps still under consideration at
the Trinity House, the Elder Brethren have not deemed it
necessary to give the keeper at the South Lighthouse any
specific instructions beyond that of keeping up a good
flame, nor to take any special notice of the consumption
being equal in the two lamps for the month of December.
I am further to observe, that in Mr. Faraday's Report,
dated 19th October last, the proportion of consumption
between the two lights was stated to be 15 pints for the
South Light to 13 for the North Light, and that the oil
bills for the entire month of January, copies of which are
now enclosed, show a proportion nearly similar, viz., 77
gallons against 70 gallons, 1 quart, 1 pint.
I have, &c.,
J. F. Campbell, Esq., P. H. Berthon.
&c. &c.
From this it appears that the advantage of the new lamp Summary of
was lost by burning a small quantity of oU, and that the this Evidence.
advantage gained was due solely to the setting of the appa-
ratus. See an /e accounts of visits to Whitby, and several
papers on Whitby.
ADMIRALTY CO-OPERATION.
Admiralty Co-operation in preparing Lists of
Lights, Notices to Mariners, Corrections in
Charts, &c.
Royal Commission,
Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, Millbank Street, S.W., London,
December 15th, 1860.
Sir,
With reference to a letter from the Board of Trade to
the Admiralty, dated 8th December, 1854, in reply to one
from the Admiralty, dated 6th December, to the Board of
Trade, the Commissioners would be obliged if you mU
inform them, —
(1) Whether the Official Lists of Lighthouses published
by the Admiralty is dependent for its accuracy, as regards
the United Kingdom and Colonies, on the " fuU record "
which the Board of Trade, in the above letter, says will
'■ be kept in their office ot all lights in the Queen's
dominions," and if so, in what shape, and at what periodical
inter\'als, the alterations of old bghts, the erection of new
lights, &c., are communicated to the Board of Admiralty
by the Board of Trade ; and if not, then u])on what infor-
mation, whence obtained, &c., is the official list that is pub-
D
lished by the Board of Admiralty, as far as regards above-
named lights, formed and corrected.
(2] I am fm'ther directed to inquire, \vith reference to the
latter portion of the same paragraph, 7, of the above-named
letter, whether the Officers of Her Majesty's Navy have
special orders to " report to the Admiralty upon the effici-
ency of the several lights," and to request that a copy of
any order or circular to that effect, that may have been
addressed to the Officers of the Na\'y, may be sent to the
Commissioners.
(3) I am further directed to inquire whether the above
reports have been " communicated to the Board of Trade
with a \-iew to their registration by that Board."
(4) I am directed to request that you will permit the
Commissioners to see the original reports from the Officers
of Her Majesty's Nai-y that have been received since the
date of that letter, 8th December, 1854.
For the con\-enience of their Lordships, I am directed to
enclose a printed copy of the correspondence abo\-e referred
to.
I am, &c.,
J. F. Campbell,
Secretary.
The Secretary, Admiralty.
d4
216
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, EtJOYS, AND BEACONS :
Admiralty. s,jj_ Admiralty, February 1, 18G1.
With reference to your letter of the 15th December,
requestinjj infonuatiou on the subject of lighthouses in the
United Kinstdom and Colonies, I am commanded by my
Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to acquaint you that
the subject has been referred to their Lordshijjs' hydro-
^apher, a copy of whose report is inclosed herewith, for the
information of the Royal Commission on Lights, Buoys,
and Beacons.
I am, &c..
J. F. Campbell, Esq., AV. I'ennell,
&c. 6L-C. Pro Secretary.
Ix accordance with the Board Minute, to report in rejily
to the queries respecting the Admiralty Lists of Lights, &c.
contained in the letter of the Royal Commission on Lights,
Buoys, and Beacons, dated the 13th December last, I have
to submit the follo\^'ing statement : —
L ITie Admiralty list of lights is now, and has been for
the last few years, in a great measure dependent for its
accuracy, as regards the lights of the United Kingdom and
Colonies, on the record kept by the Board of Trade. On
ever)- occasion of reprinting the Admiralty List (generally
once a year), the jjroof sheets are sent to that Board, who
take the trouble to examine them carefully, and correct any
error which they may discover.
IL It is not at any " periodical inten-al," but immediately
on an alteration taking jjlace in any existing light, home or
colonial, or on the exhibition of any new light, that the
Aohce to Board of Trade (or in case of a home light, the Trinity
Mari7ters. Board) at once communicates the fact, with all particulars,
to the Admiralty, who forth«'ith issue a printed notice to
mariners (a co])y of which is enclosed), and distribute from
750 to 1000 copies of it, as the case may be. And with re-
spect to the "shape" in which the information is commu-
nicated by the Board of Trade, no time is lost by them in
copying it, but the original document is ti-ansmitted or
rather brought to the Hydrograiihic Office of the Admiraltj-,
so that not an hour should be lost in making it ])ublic.
in. The Admiralty Lights List, as already mentioned, is
mainly dejjendent for information respecting home lights
on the Board of Trade and tlie Trinity House, and for
colonial lights on the Board of Trade alone ; but in addi-
tion the Admiraltj- gets information direct through its own
surveying ofiicers by special correspondence, and not un-
frequently from colonial newspapers ; for, notwitlistanding
the Board of Trade letters to the Colonial Office of I5th
August, 1855, and 28th July, 1856, requesting that infor-
mation might be sent, and the Colonial Office Instructions
to the Governors of the respective colonics thereupon, some
of the colonies are remiss in sending home the required in-
formation, or send it tardily ; and if the Admiralty did not
get it from the sources specified, we sometimes should not
get it till very late, or perhaps not at all.
IV. No special order or circular to report on lights
beyond the general printed instructions has been issued to
the navy. It would be the duty of a captain to report to
his commander in chief anything wrong in a light that he
might observe, but if the light was apparently in good order
he would not notice it. In the General Xa\-al Instructions
now under revision, their Lordships have directed that the
captain sliall cause each light on passing to be compared
with the official hst ; and if found not to be coiTcct it is to
be immediately reported. In some special cases lights have
been reported on by naval officers, as the Cerigo fight by
Captain Spratt, at the request of the Board of Trade, and a
copy of the report was sent to that Board. .Surveying
officers have general orders to report upon the lights on
their respective stations, and this they frequently do in their
correspondence with the hydrographer.
Reports on lights, however, require to be received with
great caution. Some training is necessary to watch lights
with accuracy. Flashing lights will frequently be reported
as Revolving lights, and rice rersd, and the intervals of
flash or revolution, which nmst be carefully reckoned by
seconds, are often given very vaguely. The French or
general continental character of a "Fixed and Flashing"
light is fre(piently mis-stated. No one who has not had
some experience in lights would befieve the erroneous state-
ments occasionally reported officially. As an illustration I
may mention the case which has just occurred of the Port
Said Light, on the coast of Eg}^)t. First, then, this light,
which is only 25 miles from Alexandria, had been exhibited
some months before anything was known of it in Europe, or
at any rate in England, until I accidentally visited the sjiot
and saw it in October last. 2ndly, upon inquiry being
made tlirough the proper channels, this light was oJiciaUy
reported as revoh-ing, showing alternately a red and green
light. Knowing, fortunately, from ray own inspection that
such was not the fact, I «Tote to Alexandria to institute
further iquiries, and only a few days since it was again
officially re])orted and proved to be a fixed white light (as I
knew it to bei, and as such it is inserted in the Admiralty
charts and lights lists.
V. Having re])lied to the queries of the Royal Commis-
sion on Lights, with respect to home and colonial lights, it
may not be irrelevant if I go into some little detail as to the
Admiralty lists of fights in general, the means available to
keep them correct, the steps taken to make public any new
light or alteration in an old light, and the course pursued
to ensure its insertion in all the Admiralty charts that it may
affect.
1st. Tlie existing lights, as far as we are aware, home,
colonial, and foreign, amount to about 2,290 in number ;
and the Admiralty list and description of them is contained
in ten pamphlets, divided according to the respective naval
stations. It is the special duty of the 3rd naval assistant
in the hydrographic office to keep these lists complete by
everj' means in his power. At the request of the Admiralty
some years since the Foreign Office issued a circular to all
British Consuls, to report any alteration of lights or any
exhibition of a new light in their several districts. By these
means, by correspondence with all colonial and foreign
lighthouse Boards, and by searching in foreign periodicals,
as the Monitetir dc la Flotte for France, the Morskoi Sbornik
for Russia, and others, we endeavour to keep the list correct ;
but even these sources frequently fail us ; only yesterdaj-, a
Russian officer called at the hydrographic office, and told
me that two new lights in the Black Sea would be exhibited
in the course of the spring, one at Sikhura Kaleh, and the
other at Eupatoria, in the Krimea, whereas we had never
heard even that lighthouses were building at these places ;
and not a week ago I learnt for the first time that a light
existed at Manda\'i in the Gulf of Kutch lonly 300 miles
N.'W. of Bombay), which, as far as I am aware, has never
appeared or any Indian or European chart, or hst of lights
hitherto published.
2ndly. The steps taken to make pubhc the exhibition of
a new light.
Immediately on the receipt of information of an alteration
of any consequence in an old liglit, or the placing of a new
light, a " Notice to Mariners " fsuch as enclosed) is pre- Jfotire to
j)ared in the hydrographic office by the 4th naval assistant, Mariners.
whose special duty it is to do so. When a proof of it has
been carefully examined and approved by the hydrographer,
from 750 to 1,000 copies of it are printed and widely dis-
tributed. Of these, 150 copies are sent to the Custom
House in London, one copy to be exhibited at each Custom
House throughout the United Kingdom, 70 copies to the
Board of Trade, 10 copies each to the Trinity Houses of
London, Leith. Dublin, Newcastle, and Hull; to Lloyds',
to the London Gazette, the Shipping Gazette, to the
Chambers of Commerce at Liverpool, Glasgow, &c. ; to all
Foreign Consuls ; to the Governor of the Colony it may
affect ; to the naval commanders in chief for each ship in
their resjjective squadrons ; to the various depots of charts
at the oiitports, as Portsmouth, Plymouth, Cork, Gibraltar,
Malta, Cape of Good Hope, &c. ; and to the principal
agent and sub-agents for the sale of Admiralty charts
throughout the countiy. And in order to facilitatethe cor-
rection being made, the number and title of ehach cart that
it affects is printed on the face of the notice.
Enclosed is a copy of the notices issued during the Four jS'otica^
present year, and of the hst of Boards and individuals to q„j. jr,,s(
whom distributed.
Lastly. — The course ])ursued in order to ensure the in-
sertion of a new light in all the Admiralty charts which it
may affect.
As soon as a notice is received it goes to the assistant
hydrographer, or chief draughtsman, to insert the new
light or correction on the chart, and so to the engraver, and
if not a very extensive correction, it is the duty of the
junior draughtsman to insert by hand the correction in all
the charts on the shelves of the hydrographic office. The
notices, as before mentioned, are widely distributed and
sent to all Commanders-in-Chief, to place in the chart
boxes in depot, and to all agents for the sale of charts, who
are required eitiier to insert the correction in the chart, or
to sup])ly a co])y of the printed notices along with every
copy of any chart affected by it that they may sell. If aii
extensive correction is necessary, the former edition of the
chart is cancelled ; the agent for the sale of charts has in
that case a standing order to return all the copies he has
in hand to the Hydrographic Office (where they are torn
into eight pieces to prevent their getting into circulation
ADlIIRAI/rV CO- OPEEATIOX.
217
again*), and copies of the new edition supplied free of cost.
Hydrographic notices, such as enclosed, are treated in the
same way. \\ hen a chart is corrected for a new light, &c.,
the chief draughtsman sends it to the .'Jrd naval assistant,
for examination ; if correct, he signs his initials to it as a
guarantee for its accuracy, before it is brought to the
hydrographer, for his final examination and imprimaUir.
The enclosed printed label, shows the ordeal that a chart
has to pass through before being issued to H.M. shijis, and
to the public. I am not aware of any other cb.cck that can
be desired, or I would willingly take advantage of it.
(Signed) J. Washington,
28th January, 1861. Hydrographer.
From Malbv and Sons.
First print. No. Is it ready for press ?
Is Mr. Potter to have notice that this chart is corrected '
Is this edition to supersede those at the office?
Is this edition to supersede those in the chart lio.xes ?
Capt". Bcchcr for general examination.
Con"i''.Dunsterville for lights and notice.
Mr. Burdwood for tides.
Air. Evans for variation.
Plate received from Mess" Walker.
Hydrographic Notice. — No. 5.
AusTK.\LiA. — East Coast. — Outer Route.
The following are the results of the recent exploring
cruise of H.M.S. " Herald," Captain Denham, in the Coral
sea, Australia, between the months of January and June,
1860.
Passage. — The passage from Port Jackson to the southern
confine of the Coral Sea in the month of January was com-
menced under a north wind and a southerly current, in the
full confidence, from former experience, that on making an
ofling of 1.50 miles to the eastward a north-easterly set
would be found, and the skirt of the south-east trade
attained ; anticipations which were duly realized, and
placed the shij) at the MeUish reef on the tenth day.
Hellish Rerf. — Found the skeleton triangular beacon
which we had erected here in September, 1859, from the
debris of the French steamer " Duroc," still standing, but
made quite white by birds, which prevents its being so
easily seen.f It is 32 feet above the mean levtl of the sea,
and should be visible from the deck of a ship eight miles.
Verified former positions of the reef in 17° -■!' ^9" S., and
155° 52' 45" E., and re-rated chronometers. (The drawing
is omitted.)
Lihoii Re.ffs. — Crossed the Outer route to the westward,
to resume the examination of the Lihou chain of reefs and
cays from where the "Herald" tracked it to in 18 5!), and
by now determining its northern ell)ow in 17° 10' 30" S.,
152° 12' 20" E., it became e\-ident that it was identical «-ith
the Alert reef, which had been rejiorted as a distinct reef,
but which might now be expunged from the charts. The
Diana reef may likewise be expunged; it could not be
traced after most diligent search.
The Willis Group consists of two grassy islets elevated
■"5.3 feet, and a low sand cay spreading 10 miles North and
South. The cay and its reef form the northern extreme of
the grou]), and hence a salient feature upon the western
side of the Outer route in 16° 7' S., 150° .3' E. The mag-
netic variation here is 7° 1'' E., and the tide hour 8 o'clock,
with a rise and fall of 6 feet. Abundance of turtle will be
found here, as well as upon the Lihou cays at this season
(Fel)ruary), and a shelf of anchorage soundings will be
found upon the westei-n aspect of this group but no sound-
ings along its eastern face.
Corinrja Cays. — The north-eastern of the two Coringa
islets jiroved to be m 16° 55' 52" S.. 149° 12' 56" E. ; they
are grassy, and elevated 2.3 feet, situated 31 miles apart,
upon the bearing of S. 55° 30' W.
The Mndelaine Cay, with its belt reef, is in 16° 30' 17" S.
long., 150° 17' 12" E., a grassy islet, of 23 feet elevation
lies 5 2 miles S. 30°. E. A 25 fathom shelf of soundings
sjireads 4 miles off the western face of this group, but no
soundings offer upon its north-eastern asjjcct. The Coringa
and Madelaine dangers may be considered as guarded from
the Outer route by Willis group.
A'o Bougainrille reef could be traced anywhere between
tiie parallels of 16° 20' and 14" 40' S., within the meridians
* Formerly cancelled charts were returned to tlie Stationery
Office untorn, they wtre sold as waste paper, and after a short
time they were found in circulation again as Admiralty Charts ;
to obviate the possibility of such an occurrence every large chart
is now torn into at least eight pieces, before it leaves the
the Admiralty.
■f- As this beacon >s only a temporary erection, the mariner is
cautioned that it is uncertain how long it may remain standing.
i. E
147° lO'and 14S" 50' E. If Bougainville has been quoted ., • ,,
a degree wrong in latitude, the Holmes reef of 1854 may ""''' ^'
be what he saw, at all events his jiosition presents no reef. rj,.j . . , .
Osprey Reef, the next and only boundary danger between ^Yo'li'cei'."^""'
Willis group and Raine island entrance to Torres Strait, '
was found to l)e of triangular form, subtending five-mile
sides, its margins awash, witli its most jirotruding elbow
regarding the Outer route navigation, situated in 13° 51' S.,
146^^ 35' 20" E. ; the magnetic variation 6° 23" E., and a r ; .
tide hour of 8h. 36m., with a rise and fall of 6 feet. No
soundings at a ship's length around this reef.
The Rain Islu7td sea-mark was duly sighted upon a N.W.
by W. course from Osprey, alter a 200 mile run, a course
^^■hich was not affected by any current though passing
through fields of drift wood. A smooth water anchorage
was taken up round the Great detached barrier reef, 7 miles
S. by A\'. 7} \V. from Raine island, whence the necessary
visits were made to the island to rate chronometers, to land
supplies of provisions* for distressed voyagers, and to in-
spect the state of the sea-mark, the dome of which had
become decayed and fallen in, but as it still presents a sub-
stantial tower it needs no restoration until it shall become
a lighthouse, which the now determined Outer route ques-
tion suggests. t (The drawing is omitted.)
Tlic chief part of the 13 days' detention at this anchorage
(March 21st to April 3rd) arose fron; the calms which pre-
ceded the eastern monsoon, but as soon as a v.'orkinn- breeze
sprang up the narrows were easily cleared upon one ebb
tide, and MeUish reef regained in a 26 days' beat against
the S.E. trade.
Passage. — From MeUish reef, with fresh chronometric
data, and under (at this season) the unvarying south-easter,
a passage was made to Sandy Cape vicinity upon the port
tack, fetching through between Sir James Saumarcz reef
and "Herald's" extreme of the Great Barrier reef, and
thence, by courting the southerly set, which runs at
14 knots along the east coast of Australia, at a 25 mile
otfing. Port Jackson was regained under a continued beat
against the southerly %vind, in 15 days from MeUish reef
demonstrating that a sailing ship can effect the Coral Sea
passage in 4l days from Torres Strait to these colonies,
after the western monsoon has ceased tt the Strait to help
her on her first stage to the eastward.
Outer Route. — Tliis cruise of the " Herald," in connexion
with her previous examination of the Coral Sea, goes to
show that a clear route of 150 miles wide, free from current,
with five positively defined tlangers on the eastern hand
and six upon the western, is now open to vessels bound to
India from any of our Australian, Tasmanian, or New
Zealand colonies, by simply taking up a point of departura
in 24° South, intersected by the meridian 157° East, and
then steering the foUomng courses : —
N. by W J W. 240 miles to lat. 20 0 S.
N.W. -1- W. 700 „ ., 1136,, (the parallel of
Raine island).
W. 4 S. 220 „ 'to Raine island (upon its paralle)^
On the East Side the boundary dangers are, —
BeUona - 21 52 22 S. + 159 25 30 E. Var. 9 30 E.
Breaker - 21 26 36 „ 158 46 41 „ „ 9 19
Booby - 20 57 0 „ 158 31 53 „
MeUish - 17 24 39 „ 155 52 45 „ „ 8 30
On the West Side the boundary dangers are, —
Cato
- 23 15 32 S.
155 37 20 E.
Var. 9 23 E.
Wreck
- 22 10 30 „
155 28 41 „
„ 9 43 „
Kenn
- 21 15 24 „
155 50 35 „
.,9 0 „
Lihou
- 17 10 30 „
152 12 20 „
.-, 8 3 „
WilUs
- If) 7 0 „
150 2 59 „
.. 7 11 „
Osprey
- 13 51 0 „
146 35 20 „
„ 6 23 „
• The following provisions were landed from H.M.S
"Herald's" stores on the aiith Jfarch ISGO : — Biscuits "snlbs."
Chocolate 104 lbs., Pork 320 lbs.. Flour 210 lbs.. Preserved Meat
48 lbs., Hice 20 lbs., Picldes 6 bottles, Candles 61bs., Wate.^
2 casks.
t The Raine island sea-mark was erected in the year 1844
by the crews of H.M. ships "Fly" and "Bramble," Captain
Francis Blackwood, R.N., assisted by the Government of New
South Wales. It is now 60 feet high, and should be visible
8 miles clear weather.
J The longitudes of these positions have been adapted to the
meridian of Fort Macquarie, Sydney, assumed to be in 151^ 14'
Fast of Greenwich, as all the Admiralty charts are gradu.ited to
that position. 'Ihe recent observations of the Astronomer at
Sydney place Fort Macquarie in 151° 15' 33". Captain Denham
uses 151" 14' 40" ; but as said before, all the longitudes in the
present and former Hydrographic Notices are m acordance
with the Admiralty charts.
21S
APPlCNDtX TO REPORT ( ).N l.lOIHs, BIOYS, AND BEACONS :
The above courses are by compass, and the positions
apply to th2 mist salient features of the several reefs m
regard to the Ojter route fairway, a route now available for
sailing sh'ps to Jr from India, accordino; to the mansoons,
and at all seiijns for steamers, which would thus shorten
the rassa'i betweea Sydney and Siuwapjre by one-fourth,
in sinojch water, and hence in smaller vessels than are now
fraployed to face the Indian Ocean round by Cape
Leeuwin.
It is understood that Captain Dennam's suggestion of
forthwith establishing a fi\ed white light upon the Kenn
leef and upon R:iine island has met with the favourable
attention of his Excellency Sir WiUiam Denison, the
Governor-General of Austraha and its dependencies.
Hydrot^raphic Office. .Admiraltv, London,
" 12th August, I8(i0.
This Notice affects the following Admiralty Charts and
Sailing Directions : — General Chart of Australia, No. 1,042 ;
Inde.\\"hart of N.E. coast ot Australia, No. 2,3^5 ; General
Chart of Indian Ocean, No. 2,483; Sheets 5 and 6 of
Pacific Ocean, Nos. 2,4(j3, 2,464 ; Hydrographic Notice
No. 4, Australia, East Coast ; and Chap. 7-, Australia
Directory, vol. 2.
Hydrographic Notice. — No. 6.
Australia.
Torres Strait.
Campbell Reef.— The ship " Storm Cloud," in a recent
passage throu^'h Torres Strait by the Great N.E. channel,
when°running from the Ninepin ro~k to Wednesday island,
passed about three cables' length from a reef, which ap-
peared to be a very narrow ridge trending in a N.E. and
S.W. dh-ection, arid ab.)ut half a mile in extent.*
The reef is nearly in line between the easternmost and
highest Double Island and .Mount Ernest Island, distant
about 5i miles from the former and 6* miles from the latter
island.
C3«/ion.— As this newly discovered danger is in the
route occasionally used by vessels bound through the
Prince of Wales Channel from the eastward, and has
hitherto escaped the vigilance of suri-eying officers, and as
its exact position is yet uncertain, the utmost caution is
required in using this passage.
The prompt attention of the commander of the '• Storm
Cloud" in reporting this danger to the Lords of the
Admiralty, is acUnowledged by their Lordships naming it
after the discoverer.
East Coast — Outer Route.
On the East Side boundarj- dangers, the position of
Booby reef is stated in Hydrographic Notice No. 5. to be
in long. 158= 19' 23" E. ; it should be 158= 31' 53" _E.
Barapt'on Reef (omitted) south-west end is in lat. 19= b-2'
22' S. and long. 158" 19' 23" E.
Hydrographic Office, Admiraltv, London,
4th October 18:itl.
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
No. 1.
Mediterranean — Coast of Egypt.
Fixed Light at Port Said.
Information has been recsived at the Admiralty, that a
light has recently been exhibited from a hghthouse at Port
Said, 2") miles S.E. of the Damietta mouth of the Nile,
coast of Egypt.
The light is a fxed white light, placed at an elevation of
66 feet abo\-e the main level ot the sea, and should be seen
from the deck of a ship at a distance of 9 miles in clear
weather.
The illuminating apparatus is dioptric or by lenses, of
the third order.
The lin-hthouse is a skeleton tower of wood, and stands
in lat. 31° 16' 0" N., long. 32° 19' 30" East from
Greenwich.
(The Bearings are magnetic. Variation 6" 10' West in
1861.)
By Command of their Lordships,
John Washi.vgton,
Hydrographer.
Hydrographic Office, Admiralty, London,
2d January 1861.
This Notice affects the following Admiralty Charts: —
Mediterranean General, No. 2158; scale, d=l'l inch;
Mediterranean General, No. 2718=; Coast of Egyj)t,
No. 2573. Also Mediterranean Lights List, No. 324*,
May 1860.
• Sec Admiralty Chart, Torres Sirail, Western Channels,
No. s al e d=30 inches, on which this danger is marked.
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
No. 2.
Baltic — Gulf of Finl.\nd.
.\LTER.\TI0N of LiGHTS AT KrONSTAT.
The Imperial Ministry of Marine in Russia has given
Notice, that the following alterations will be made in the
lights at Kronstat, prior to the opening of the navigation
in the spring of 1861 ; —
The three fixed lights in the centre of the Fort of
Emperor Paul I. or Risbank Fort, will be discontinued.
The eastern light on Nicholas battery at Kronslot, which
is now 45 feet above the mean level of the sea, wiU be
raised 58 feet above the same level, and should be visible
from the deck of a ship in clear weather at a distance of
12 miles.
The western light, which is now 21 feet above the mean
level of the sea, will be raised 23 feet. This increase of
height will make no alteration in the horizontal arc through
wliijh the light will be visible.
Werko M.\t.\l.\ Beacon off Biorko.
Also, that a red beacon has been placed on the south-
east side of the Werko Matala or bank, near the entrance
of Biorko Sound ; with the tower on Pitko-nemi or point
W.S.W. ^ S. and the north-east point of Biorko N.W.
noitherly.
The white beacon on the eastern part of the bank will
be removed.
(The bearings are magnetic. Variation at Biorko, 6° 20*
West in 1861.)
By Command of their Lordships,
John Washington,
Hydrographer.
Hydrographic Office, Admiralty, London,
Uth January 1861.
This Notice affects the following .•Admiralty Charts:—
Bahic Sea, No. 2262; Baltic, Sheet 7, No! 2192; St.
Petersburg Bay, No. 2279; Kronstat, No. 2215 ; Kronstat
to St. Petersburg, No. 2215a. Also Russian Lights List,
No. 190 and 191.
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
(No 3.)
■ Baltic — Gulp of Finland.
New Beacons in thf. Gulf of Riga.
The Imperial Ministry of Marine in Russia has given
notice that the following beacons have been erected in the
Gulf of Riga : —
Two new mast beacons have been placed to show the
direction of the channel into Riga. These beacons are sur-
mounted by a triangle with the apex upwards, and a small
barrel placed horizontally above. They stand respectively
85 and 87 feet high, and 478 yards apart, in a direction
N.W. by W. i W. The N.W. 'beacon is higher, and its
base larger than that of the S.E. beacon. They can be seen
from a distance of 10 miles.
Also, that the lower light at Riga has been turned 30°
to the westward, so as to be seen from N. J W. to
N.W. i W.
And that the following beacons will be placed prior to the
opening of the navigation in 1861 : —
On the south side of the banks of Kuno S.W. J S. 6i
miles of the church of St. Nicholas, a red broom turned
downwards.
At 3i miles to the southward of the extremity of the
Sorkholm reef, a red broom turned downwards.
On the coast of Livonia on a 9-feet shoal, which lies
S.W. by W. 2 miles in advance of the cape Taker-ort, a
black broom turned downwards.
On an I'-feet shoal, W. by N. \ N. 4 miles of the
village of Kablukula, a double broom red above and white
below.
On a 17-feet bank, which lies N.W. by N. 3* miles of the
farm of .\inensch, a white broom placed upright.
On the extremity of the reef which extends off the
entrance of the river Att SaUs, about 6i miles from the
beach, in a depth of 26 feet, a double broom white above
and red below.
[The bearings are Magnetic. Variation at Riga 8° 15'
West in 1861.]
By Command of their Lordships,
John Washington,
Hydrographer.
Hydrographic Office, Admiralty, London,
17th January 1861.
This notice affects the follow ing Admiralty Charts : —
Gulf of Riga, Nos. 2,194 and 2373; Entrance to the Gulf
of Riga, No. 2,263; Mouth of River Dwina to Riga,
No. 2,256. And Russian Lights List, No. 165.
ADMIRALTY CO-OPERATION.
213
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
(No. 4.)
Mediterranean — Adriatic.
Fixed Light on the Pedagne Rock.s Brindisi.
The Department of Piililic Works at Naples has given
Notice, that on and after the 31st day of January ISfil, a
light will be exhibited from a lighthouse erected on the
north-western of the Pedagne rocks at the entrance of
Brindisi harbour.
The light is a fixed white light, varied by a flash once
every three minutes ; the flash is preceded and followed by
a short eclipse. The elevations of the light is 72 feet above
the mean level of the sea, and it should be seen in clear
weather from the deck of a ship, at a distance of 13 miles.
The illuminating apparatus is dioptric or by lenses of
the fifth order.
The tower is a column rising from a small circular
building 36 feet high and coloured white. Its position is
given as lat. 40° 3!H' N., long. 17° o9' .'32" E. or 2 miles
westward of the longitude in the Admiralty Charts.
Revolving Light on Point Torre di Penne.
Also, that a light will be exhibited from a lighthouse
erected on point Torre di Penne, near Brindisi, on the
south-east coast of Italy.
The light is a revolving white hght, attaining its greatest
brilUancy every half minute ; the elevation of the light is
1 29 feet above the mean level of the sea, and should be seen
in clear weather from the deck of a ship, at a distance of
20 miles.
The illuminating apparatus is dioptric or by lenses of the
third order.
Tlie tower is circular, 82 feet high, and coloured white ;
and at the foot of it is a rectangular building Its position
is given as lat. 40° 41' 05" N., long. 17° b(t' 18" East of
Greenwich, or 3 miles westward of the longitude in the
Admu-alty Charts.
By Command of their Lordships,
John Washington,
Hydrographer.
Hvdrographic Department, Admiraltv, London,
18th January 1861.
This Notice will affect the following Admiralty Charts : —
Italy, South-east Coast, Sheet 5, No. 198 ; Brindisi Har-
bour, No. 1492 : Mediterranean General, Nos. 2158 and
2718 ; Adriatic General, No. 1440; and Adriatic, Sheet 6,
No. 205. Also Mediterranean Lights List, Nos. 198 and
202.
List
of Bo.^rd.s and Individuals to whom Notices of
Lights are furnished by the Admiralty.
Commanders in Chief, Home Stations.
Cop
5.
es.
Woohvicn.
5.
Chatham.
,5.
Sheerness.
15.
Portsmouth.
15.
5.
Devonport.
Pembroke.
5.
Queenstown.
Commanders in Chief or Senior Officers', Foreign Stations.
0. Baltic.
40. Mediterranean.
10. Lisbon.
20. West Coast of Africa.
10. Cape of Good Hope.
50. East Indies, China.
10. Austraha, Sydney.
15. Pacific.
10. Brazils.
10. West Indies.
15. North America.
Governors of the Colonies.
5. Of those notices which apply to their own Govern-
ment.
Master Attendants.
10.* Portsmouth.
10.* Devonport.
6.* Sheerness.
6.* Pembroke
150. Custom House.
70. Board of Trade.
London.
Copies.
80.* Coast Guard.
20. Lloyd's.
Trinity House.
Lond'in Gazette.
Shipping Gazette.
Potter J. D., 31. Poultry, E.C.
Potter, D., 11 King Street, Tower Hill.
Stanford, Ctiaring Cross.
Malby and Son, 27, Parker Street.
Nautical Magazine.
Mercantile Slarine Magazine, 30, Trinity Square,
Tower Hill.
Wilkins and Co., 24 Long Acre.
Chance & Co.. Birmingham.
LiDerpool.
Chamber of Commerce.
Mercantile Marine Association.
Linderwriters Room.
B. J. Thompson, Esq., 20, Water Street.
J. C. Johnstone, Custom House Agent.
Jev'itt and Co., South John Street, Agent.
PhilMp and Son, South Castle Street, Agent.
Walker, South Castle Street, Agent.
Newcastle, Trinity House.
R. Thompson, 40, Quay Side, Agent.
Sunderland, Reid and Co., High Street, Agents.
Hull, Trinity Board. — R. C. Appleby, Custom House
Agent.
Bristol, Chamber of Commerce.
Hill and Price, Broad Quay, Agents.
Cardiff, Wilhams, Bute, Docks, Agent.
Edinburgh, Commissioners of Northern Lights.
Do. Chamber of Commerce.
Leith, Trinity House.
Reid and Son, 36, Shone, Agents.
Dundee, Seamen's Fraternity.
Glasgoic, Chamber of Commerce.
McGregor, 8, William Street, Agent.
Greenock, McGregor, 8. William Street, Agent.
Oban. — Commander Bedford, R.N.
Dublin, Ballast Office.
Hodges and Smith, 104, Grafton Street, Agents.
Belfast, Chamber of Commerce.
Cork, Committee of Merchants.
Hugh Cale, Queens Town, Agent.
VVaterford, Chamber of Commerce.
Foreign Hydrographers.
10.
1.
1.
5.
5.
5.
1.
1.
1.
1.
5.
3.
3.
3.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
10.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
5.
6.
5.
5.
3.*
10.
5.
5.
10.
5.
5.
Paris, Depot de la
Marine.
Madrid.
The Hague.
St. Petersburgh.
Foreign Consuls.
Stockholm.
Copenhagen.
Christiania.
U. S. Washington.
France.
Spain.
Portugal.
Sardinia.
Two Sicilies.
Tuscany.
Austria.
Greece.
Turkey.
Belgium.
Netherlands.
Denmark.
Sweden and Norway.
Hanseatic Republic.
Prussia.
Russia.
United States.
Mexico.
2.
Haiti.
Grenada.
Venezuela.
Brazils.
Argentine Confedera-
tion.
Uruguay.
Chile.
Bolivia.
Peru.
Jacob Swart, Amster-
dam.
Messrs. Blunt, New
York.
Superintendent Coast
Survey, New York.
Lighthouse Board,
Washington.
Foreign Agents for the Sale of Charts.
Malta.
Cape of Good Hope.
Algoa Bay.
Mell)ourne, Australia.
Adelaide.
New Zealand.
Auckland.
Port Cooper.
Wellington.
5. Buenos Ayres.
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
5. Picton.
5. North Sydney.
5. Charlestown, P.
Island,
o. Gulf of Canso.
3. Mirimachi.
E.
* Only the Home Liglus.
Ee 2
220
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, -VNU BEACOXS
BUOYAGE.
Buoyage r/shm. SC'HKME proposed for general adoption by Commander
Bedford, of the Admiralty Survey, Oban. The
large charts showinij the application of the system in
the mouths of the Thames have been placed together
with the drawings collected by the Commission.
Admiralty Survey, Oban.
Froi^ Mull,"july 29th, 1859.
My de.\k Sir,
Aptek I had parted from you in the Sound of
^luU I felt that my visit had been too short, and I feared
I had not made myself clearly understood upon the several
points submitted to me. 1 have illustrated the two projio-
sitions, one made liy yourself, the other by Captain Ryder,
U])on the proposal for uniformity' of buoyinu^.
The arrantrement is local, and I bebeve will be considered
to offer no difficulties.
I have written to the Hydrographer for charts of the
mouths of the Thames, to which I will direct my attention
immediately on receij)t. I should feel much obhged if you
would kindly give me a rough limit of time for sending
it in, as I should of course not wish to jeopardise, by a
hurried consideration, a system which, if carried out, will be
of so much benefit to navigation.
* * le * * * *
I beg to enclose dates of several letters referring to lights
and buoys. Those of a prior date I will also send when I
return to head quarters.
I have, &c.
E. J. Bedford.
Rear-Admiral \V. A. B. Hamilton.
&C., i-C, I've.
Second List of Dates end Addresses of Letters
relating to Lights, Buoys, and Beacons.
Dates and Addresses of Letters relating to Lights
Buoys, and BEACo.\s,bet>veen Julv IS57 and 1859.
Nov. 12, 1857 Secretarj- of the
Admiralty.
17 „ I Kditor of Nautical
JIagazinc.
21 „ I Ditto ditto
» 26 „
Mar. 24, 1858
April 2, „
„ 1", „
>. 20, „
Oct, 28, „
Nov. 4, „
„ 13. ..
„ 25, „
Dec. IS, ..
May 6, 1850
Secretary, North-
ern Lighthouse
Commissioners.
Ditto
Ditto
Ditto
Secretary, Admi-
ralty. '
Ilydrographer as
Commissioner of
Harbour of Re-
fuge.
Ditto -
Secretarj- of Admi-
ralty.
Ditto . - -
Ditto -
Secretary, IJoyal
Conmiission on
Lights, &c.
Ditto -
Ditto -
Subject.
Proposition for uniformity
of buoying.
Ditto.
Lights on this coast gene-
rally, printed inaccu-
rately.
Islay Light showing over
Oronsay (did not appear
iu print).
Buoying of the Tay.
Ditto, Sound of JIull.
Ditto, general district pro-
position.
Ditto, ditto, Yarmouth
lioad (illustrated).
deferring to J>ord C. Pa-
get's Motion iu the House
of Commons.
Islay Light showing over
Oronsay.
Ditto.
Dttto.
Buchanncss and Kinnaird
Lights.
Islay Light.
G encral questions answered.
Surveyor's experience not
recognized.
DubhHertach, Islay Sound
Li[;lits, &c.
JIar. 29,
1854
Hdyi-ographer
June 20,
Ditto -
Aug. 12,
••
Ditto .
Oct. U,
Dec. 4,
Secretary, North-
ern Lighthouse
Commissioners.
Ditto -
June 25,
1S55
Ilydrographer
General Subject.
Jan. 24, 1S5C] Messrs. Stevenson
April 14,
May 24,
Mav 2G,
June
PeK
Mar. 12,
Secretary, Admi-
raltv. '
Sir Arch. Camp-
bell, Bart.
Ditto -
Secretary, North-
ern Lights.
Ilydrographer
Secretary, North-
ern Lighthousas.
Ditto -
Secretary,
House.
Trinity
Jan. 12, 185G; Ilydrographer
Secretary, North-
ern Lights.
Improvements proposed for
the navigation of Islay
Sound.
Objections to the proposed
Islay Light.
On the Board of Trade's
decision respecting the
site for Islay Lighthouse,
argument against.
Ditto.
[Loss of "Chevalier," and hs
bearing on Islay l.,ight-
I house.
I liemonstranee against the
limit proposed by the
' Board of Trade for the
! Islay light.
On Dubh Ilertach and
I general neglect of the na-
I vigation of the Sounds of
.Tura, &c.
I On the lighting of the west
I coast of Scotland, Isy
Sound particularly.
I Reply to Sir Archibald
' Campbell, Bart., 5I.P., on
I his observations relating
\ to Islay Light.
t On the dangerous effects
j likely to be produced irom
the proposed limits of
Islay Light ; also propo-
sition for other lights, in-
cluding Dubh Hcrtach.
i Lighting the west coast of
I Scotland generally.
' Neglect of Jura Sound.
Ditto.
Lighting of the west coast
of Scotland (south).
Tobermory Light, exten-
sion of green light.
Lighting Sound of Jura,
&c.
Relates, with other matter,
to the wreck of another
steamer, and the neglect-
ed state of the naviga-
tion.
On uniformity of buoying.
E. J. BiiDFOKD, Commander,
Copy.
Bournemouth, Poole,
Dear Sir, 19th August, 1859.
There is one expression in your letter of the l.'ith
received yesterday, which I forgot to refer to, and which I
think oi' i-alue; viz., where you allude to the want of
the faculty in some [)ersons to distinguish one colour from
another. I had no idea till I had to give some attention
to it, how many there are more or less deficient in that
faculty ; antl it is a inisi'ortune, I fear, that the red is the
colour most frequently uncertain in its power of impression.
Where a red light, for instance, has shown a briUiant and
most marked colour to my vision, some of my companions
have scarcely recognized the shade.
BUOYAGE SYSTEJI.
221
It is a serious question, to say the least of it, and one
that v.'ill have to be gone into with care some day. In the
meanwhile, as for as my own senses go, red and black would
seem to be the best colours generally for buoys ; I was more
struck with this in the Channel leading to the port of
Dublin than anj'where, the buoys being fresher coloured.
I am not prepared to advocate the chetiuered jjlan.
.Vftcr all, it is but an exaggeration of the .Shepherd's plaid,
which is about the most invisible of mi.vtures.
I am, Sec,
\y. A. R. Hamilton.
Rear-Admiral.
Commander E. J. Bedford, R.X.
Admiralty Sm'vey, Oban,
De.vu Sir, 23rd February, 1860.
I BEG to submit to the consideration of the Royal
Commissioners a tracing of part of the West Coast of
Scotland to illustrate the jirinciple of district arrange-
ment proposed for adoption in carrying out the uniform
system of buoying and beaconing.
I am, &.O.,
E. J. ReuI'OKd,
Commissioner.
The Chairman, Royal Commission on Lights,
&c. &c. &c.
Adniiralty Survey, Oban,
De.-.k Sik, 1.3th August,"l85.').
I DEG to enclose a second list of dates, &c. of com-
munications relating to lights and buoys. Referring to the
])roposition for uniformity in the latter, I do not recommend
the colours as for an arbitrarj' adoption, for I think experi-
ments should be made under the various aspects of distance,
light, and shade, and a decision founded thereon, issued
for general guidance. Nothing can be more variable than
the opinions entertained by different jjarties upon the sub-
ject, whilst there are some who do not possess the faculty
fur distinguishing one colour from the other. I instance
the following cases, illustrating difference of opinion :— Buoyagesyitem
At Hartlepool lohite is preferred to red, as being supposed
to be more readily distinguished ; whilst Captain Sulivan,
I believe, considers xohite nearly useless for the purpose ; he
thinks chequered better than red. Mr. Stevenson, on the
contrary, objects to the former, giving preference to the one
decided colour. Captain Sulivan mentions two cases where
neither black or red could be distinguished one from the
other, and yet in Liverpool (a tolerable good and practical
test), requiring S3 buoys to mark its dangerous approaches,
red and black have been the favourite arrangement for 25
years. No doubt, if black is permittted to become rusty,
and the red be of too dark a shade, errors under certain
lights may arise, but they will be errors from neglect not
from colour.
I am, &c.
E. J. Bedford,
Admiral W. B. Hamilton, Commissioner.
&c. &c. &c.
Oban, 2;.'d August 1859.
JJeak Sik,
Ln your letter of the lyth instant you refer to the
buoying of Dublin River as a favourable example of the
adoption of the plain colours red and black, but you
perhaps have also obsen-ed that they are placed just the
reverse from what they are in the opjjosite and more im-
portant ])ort of Liverpool, and it would be no diORcult
matter to illustrat;- the disadvantage and probable injury
that might result therefrom.
From plans before me I find at Cork both black buoys
and red ones are placed on the starboard hand ; white oni'h.&
port.
At Wexford black — white o.nd red are used apparently
without any order whatever.
I am, &c.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, E. J. Bedford.
&c lie. &c.
CiilCULAR Xi\ .
QUESTIONS FOR C.iPTAINS OF STEAMERS FREQUENTING THE PORT
OF BOULOGNE.
The Commissioners appointed by the Queen to inquire into the condition and management of Lights, Buoys, and
Beacons, namely, Willi.\m Alexander Bailliu Hamilton, Esq., Rear-Admiral, R.N. ; Alfred Phillipps
Ryder, Esq., Captain, R.N. ; John Hall Gladstone, Esq. ; Duncan Dunbar, Esq., Chairman of the London
Local Marine Board ; and Samuel Rorert Graves, Esq., Chairman of the Liverpool Local Marine Board; by
\-irtue of the authority vested in them by Royal Warrant, request that the accompanying Forms may be filed up with
as little delay as possible, and that you trill retvrn them through the Post Office (unpaid).
J. F. Campbell, Secretary.
7, .Millbank Street, S.W., London,
November 26th, 1859.
1. ^Vhat is your opinion as to the usefulness and efficiency of the bell now used as a fog signal at the extremity of the p„n signal
west ])ier at Boulogne ?
2. In thick weather can you find your way into the port by the sound of the bell alone ?
.3. Can you hear it at sufficient distance for all practical purposes ?
4. Have the goodness to give your name and the name of the vessel which you command ?
1 . My opinion is that a bell on Boulogne Pier is a great
assistance in taking a vessel into the harbour in foggy
weather, and that a larger bell than that now in use would
be still m.ore effective.
2. No ; but in approaching the harbour the sound of the
bell is valuable, in conjunction with the use of the lead, in
ascertaining the ])osition of the vessel.
3. A larger bell, which could be heard at a greater dis-
tance, would, in my ojiinion, be desirable, as ordinarily the
present one can only be heard on approaching close to the
jiier.
4. George James Grant, Master of the " Rainbow."
1. Not having been to Boulogne at any time in foggy
weather, and not continuously for many voyages, I cannot
speak to the usefulness of the bell on the west pier, but
having some acquaintance w-ith the port of Ostend, I have
annexed herewith some particulars relating thereto.
■1. J. Watts, Master of the General Steam Navigation
Company's Steamship " Holland."
December 1st, 1859.
Steamship " Holland,"
SiK, December 1st, 1859.
My opinion as to the usefulness of the bell at East
Pier of Ostend as a fog signal is, that it is as good as the
gongs on board lightvessels, and has the same object in
viev.', to acquaint vessels with the position they are in, and
to prevent collision with the pier at tide time.
In thick weather I should say it was not possible to find
the way into the port without some other guide, such as
seeing some part of the pier on one side or the other, and I
think it is not always possible to know exactly the point
from which sound in foggy weather comes so as to ad\'ance
towards it with confidence sufficient to enter a harbour
across which tiie tide sets very strong.
The sound can be heard a good distance off; I cannot say
how far.
I rem.ember the " Triton " got on the east side of the pier
in foggy weather, in the summer of 1851, from, I should
s.iy, not hearing the bell at sufficient distance, or not being
able to tell in what direction the sound came.
I remain. Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
Martin Pratt, Esq. J. Watts.
e3
222
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS :
F ^ 1 . Mv opinion is that the sound of the bell is at all times
E^iZc" Cir- a very "g^at assistance in taking the harbour in foggy
cvlnr XIV. weather, but that the present bell is not sufficiently large for
the purpose. , , ,
2. Yes. with the assistance of a well kept lead.
3. In niT opinion no.
4. Samuel Wood ; " Rhine."
1. ITie bell is useful, if near enough to hear it, as a guide
in a fog and little surf on the shore to dnll the sound of
the bell.
2. I think not at the same time as the soundings are
regular. The bell is very useful.
3. I think yes. as far as I have had experience to judge.
4. John Targett, Steamship " Seine," General Steam
Navigation Company.
1. Ha\-ing been but a short time on the Boulogne station,
I have not had an oppartunity of testing the usefulness of
the bell, and I have not yet had a fog off the harbour to
render that assistance necessary when entering.
4. Gilbert Scott Marshall, General Steam Navigation
Company's Ship " Albion."
1 . The bell on the West Pier Head is useful in indicating
the position of the port.
2. If near enough to hear the bell there would be no
difficulty in finding the pier, providing the weather be
calm.
3. Yes, if the bell was larger there would be a greater
difficulty in tracing the direction of the sound at the in-
creased distance.
4. Henry Stranack, '■ Concordia," (S.)
1. The bell is exceedingly useful, and of great help when
heard ; but in my opinion a larger one is certainly required,
as it is necessary to be very close to the pier heads to hear
the one in present use.
2. Yes, with the assistance of a good lead.
3. In my opinion, no.
4. John William Reader, " Panther."
This bell is placed in the focus of a reflector, and Summani oA
the evidence goes to shew that it is not heard at any Evidence.
great distance. 2nd. that sound alone is an insufficient
guide for direction.
COAST LINE MEASUREMENTS.
France.
yieasurement of Coast lAne.
South Coast ■)
Mediterra- | J- From Nice toC. Ccrbere -
neau. I )
North Coast From Kersaint to Pass de
Zuydcoote
Coast Line of British Isles.
England.
East Coast •
South Coa,st
West Coast -
West Coast -
North Coast
East Coast -
North oftst
East Coast -
South Coast
West Coast-
Berwick to Dungeness
Dungeness to Lands End
Lands End to Solway Firth ■
Isle of Ma
Annan (Solway Firth) to
Cape Wrath
Duncansby Head to Bnn\ick
Hebrides Islands
Orkney
Shetland „
Ireland,
Fair Head to Camsore Point | {i^£is
Carnsore Point to Durscy fCoast
Island - • - • > Islands
Dursey Island to Farland f Coast
Point - - - (.Islands
SUGGESTIONS FOR INSPECTIONS.
The follo\ving are some points which should be included Capt. Ryiier,
ill the Official Report of the Inspector of Lights, but will
require to be completed : —
1. Name ; date.
2. Nature of lamp and of illuminating apparatus (catop-
tric, dioptric, or catadioptric.)
3. Order ; if catoptiic. number of burners.
4. Character ; (fLxed. dashing, revoh-ing) ; colour.
5. Cleanhness (carefully examine store room, lightroom,
opening all doors, drawers, &c., state of paint).
*). Orderliness ; note condition uf store room ; order
with which stores are stowed away ; look at account books.
7. Lightning conductor.
8. Fog signal, and need of one ; do ships approach close
when there is a fog ?
9. Telegraph or signals; tide signals, and the need of
them.
10. Water for drinking ; filter.
11. When last inspected, and by whom.
12. Medicine chest.
13. Medical attendant : distance of ; and how paid.
14. Situation ; healthy or otherwise.
15. Neai-est town ; nearest Coast (iuard station.
1 6. Wrecks ; if any within twelve months.
17. Instruments; thermometer; barometer; clock dial:
rain gauge.
18. Birds; fish; names; quantity.
19. Books ; Ubrary, when changed.
20. Time for lighting ; time for extinguishing ; whether
strictly adhered to.
21. Names of keepers; ages; period at this lighthouse ;
previous station : pay.
22. Oil ; appearance ; does it freeze in winter ; is there
a filter.
23. Tools ; complete ; in good order.
24. Hourly consumption of oil since last inspection.
25. DweUings ; how situated ; accommodation ; cleanli-
ness; order ; gardens and land ; live stock.
26. Chimney ; how many broken in last twelve months.
27. Ventilation ; note appearance of inside of dome ;
whether smoky or otherwise.
28. Paint ; when last painted inside and out.
Scientific Inspection.
Requisites — String, foot rule, ivory scale, book pencil,
small level and focus indicator.
1. Take off chimney glass and lower portion of metal
tube ; screw do^n wicks.
2. Note appearance of wick, if it has been cut dorni since
the lam]) was extinguished. If the overflow has been well
maintained the wick ought not to be much charred.
3. Stretch tivo strings at right angles attaching them to
the screws placed for the purpose. Note where intersection
is. It ought to be in the centre of the centre wick, and
touching burner. If not, note amount of error.
4. Place level on platform ; note any deviation from
level.
5. Then number the lenses and prisms, and looking
through each ; note by aid of the focus indicator where the
SUGGESTIONS FOR INSPECTIONS, &C. &;c.
223
image of the sea horizon appears to cut or pass near the
burner. To perform this with the greatest accuracy, if there
is no focus indicator, a graduated card or ruler may be
placed vertically on the burner's centre. This will answer
for lenses and lower prisms. The portion of the image of
the horizon as seen in upper prisms must be noted.
6. Note the character and quality of glass.
7. Note whether image of horizon as seen in lens, main-
tains a straight line, when the eye !is raised and lowered,
or whether it cUngs to the side of the glass.
8. At what distance outside the flaihe the foci are placed.
The correct position for foci ought to be always registered
at each Ughthouse by the constructor, in a book that can lie
referred to by the inspector.
9. \Vhen the eye is constrained to look at prisms through
a fixed point (the intended focus), note how the prism is
divided between sea and water.
10. Note whether frame is diagonal or otherwise.
11. Note length of chimney (metal), where are first
openings in metal chimney.
1 2. Note shoulder of glass chimney.
13. State of reflectors as to shape.
1-1. Light lamp ; measure flame's height above burner
when at its best.
15. Shift lamp, and time the operation.
16. If there is any metalhc catoptric portion, note position
and state of mirrors.
Inspection.
Nightly inspection by coast guard to be noted in En-
gineer's Register Report.
N.B. — -Entrance by master key.
Form of Report.
1 . Flame : condition of ; bright or not ; height by
gauge.
2. Keeper on alert or not.
3. Oil in lamp, clean or not ; reservoir, clean or not.
4. Lenses clean or not.
5. Lantern glasses, clean or not.
Form to be filled up and despatched once a week through
controller of coast guard, or immediately, in case of any
neglect on part of keeper.
Floating Lights.
Depth of water, length of chain, nature of moorings, and
when she last broke adrift, should be added to those of the
above inquiry that are applicable to floating lights.
A. P. Ryder.
LAMP.
Royal Commission,
Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, MiUbank Street, S.W., London,
SiK, 12th March 1861.
In a letter to the Chairman of this Commission
received from Mr. James Chance on the 8th instant, occur
the following passages : —
" I have Captain Ryder's note concerning experiments
" with different lamps ; and I -vn]! at once give orders about
" this very important matter."
" Until "the points of the height of the flame and of the
'• wick are settled, all other questions remain indeter-
" minate."
" This is evident from the difference between the results
" as to the position of the most luminous section obtained
" at Edinburgh and Birmingham respectively."
" I infer from what Capt. Ryder says, that you purpose
■' sending me a French pump lamp to complete the
" series."
The French lamp referred to is one that was sent over
from the Calais Lighthouse to the Commission by M.
Reynaud, for the purpose of some comparative experiments Proposed ex-
shat were then contemplated ; subsequent events led them periment on
to consider it unnecessary that they themselves should lamps.
perform these experiments, though they always hoped that
the question of the best description of lamp would receive
a full and cai-eful investigation.
The Commissioners now understand that the Elder
Brethren are taking the matter into their consideration, and
that Mr. Chance is desirous of deciding the points in
question ; they, therefore, beg to offer to the Elder Brethren
the loan of the French lamp for the aforesaid purposes, and
they doubt not that M. Reynaud, who was ready to send
over a lightkeeper to attend to the lamp at any time that
the Commissioners might desu-e, will, if requested, exhibit
the same willingness to forward the purposes of the Trinity
House.
I am, &c.
P. H. Berthon, Esq. (Signed) J. F. Campbell,
Secretary.
ADJUSTMENT OF APPARATUS.
The following correspondence with the Commissioners of
Northern Lighthouses shows that previous to the investi-
gations of the Light House Commissioners the engineers
employed by the Scotch Board had not made any adjust-
ment of the burners of dioptric lights with reference to the
height of the light above the water : —
Royal Commission,
Lights, Buoys, and Beacons,
7, MiUbank Street, London.
Sir, December 1, 1860.
The Commissioners have received a report from the
Astronomer Royal of his visit to Girdleness ; also a copy of
Mr. Thomas Stevenson's report of that \'isit, as also of his
(Mr. Stevenson's) \-isit to AVhitby and the North Foreland.
The Commissioners have also before them Mr. Thomas
Stevenson's work on Lighthouse Illumination, 1859, second
issue, and the rephes he has been so good as to send to
printed questions sent to him by them and also Mr. Alan
Stevenson's Rudimentary Treatise, 1850. In the first of
these works Mr. Thomas Stevenson speaks (p. 78, 79) oi a.
" dipping hght ;" and he appears to think it suitable for
high lighthouses, and in fogs, to direct the rays (ordinarily
directed to the horizon) to points nearer at hand. He pro-
poses that the apparatus should be hinged, and moveable
under the control of the keepers. Mr. Alan Stevenson
proposes (70, 124) that in very high hghthouses the " lenses
should have a slight inclination outwards so as to cause
the most brilliant portion of the emergent beam to reach
the visible horizon which is due to the height of the
lantern."
In p. 126 Mr. Alan Stevenson says, " In other cases,
where the whole horizon has to be illuminated, and great
vertical divergence is at the same time desirable, a sUght
elevation of the burner, at the expense, no doubt, of a small
portion of light, is sometimes resorted to, and is found to
E
produce with good effect the requisite depression of the
emergent rays."
The distance prescribed by Fresnel for the burner of a Ibst
order dioptric light to be placed below the focus for
parallel horizontal rays is 28m. or I'l in. In a first order
dioptric light placed at a height of 185 feet (Girdleness) the
dip due to that height being 15' 37", and the tangent for
the focal distance of that angle being 3'5m., the image of
the horizon would be looked for and would be expected to
appear at 2Sm. -f- 3'5m. =;31"5 ra. or 1'23 in. above the
burner.
The Astronomer Royal states that he found the image of
the horizon 3-8ths inches too high (or at 1 ■6m) above the
burner, and that he recommended the lamp to be raised
half the error, or 3-16 in. The upper and lower prisms ap-
peared to be well adjusted to the erroneous position of the
lamp, and the Astronomer Royal recommended, therefore,
that the lamps should only be raised 3-16 in., or one-half of
its error. It would probably affect the adjustment of the
upper and lower prisms if the lamp was to be accurately
placed/ It would appear, therefore, that the burner at
Girdleness was lou-er even than Fresnel's position by 0.25in.
(one quarter of an inch), and not higher, as it should have
been, by 0'13 of an inch.
No conclusion, however, can be drawn from the experi-
ments as to whether or not the lamp at Girdleness was
originally adjusted to the visible horizon, because the burner
appears from Mr. Stevenson's report to have been replaced
without supervision.
Conversations with Mr. Thomas Stevenson have left an
impression on the mind of the Commissioners (but they
may be mistaken) that in no iUuuiinating apparatus de-
signed by him has he ever intentionally adjusted the lamp
or apparatus to the height of the hght above the water, or
displaced the position of the lamp, as prescribed by Fresnel.
e4
22tt
APPENDIX TO REPORT OX LIGHTS, BUOYS, AND BEACONS.
viz., the burner to be I'l in. below the focus for parallel
horizontal rays in first-class dioptric lights.
The Commissioners desue to be informed, (1) what was
the original position of the burner as regards the focus of
the lens referred to in each of the first class dioptric lights
erected by Messrs. A., Thos., and D. Stevenson, and by the
late Mr. Stevenson in Scotland; and (2'l, further in detail,
what course, if any, the Messrs. Stevenson adojrt in adjust-
ing the position of the lamp i^with reference to the snid
focus) to the height of the light above the water, naming
the lights in which this adjustment has been made, and its
amount in each case ; also (3) what course, if anj-, they
adopt if they make the above adjustment, in making the
further adjustments of the hiver prisms, so that their said
foci may not be in the metal burner when the lamji has been
raised considerably in consequence of th.e light l)eing a con-
siderable height abo\-e the water, and also naming tlie
lights in which the adjustment has been made ; and also
(4) what course they adopt in the above case in adjusting
the upper prisms that then- foci may not, when the lamj)
has been considerably raised, be in a different section of the
flame from that jireviously selected by Fresnel, naming the
lights in which the adjustment has been made ; and also
(5), whether in any case they have altered the position of a
lens or prism after the illuminating apparatus has been
erected at a lighthouse, and if so, in what cases and for
what reasons ; also (6) what precautions are taken when
old bm-ners arc replaced by new burners, to ensure the
correct jiosition of the flame being accurately preserved.
I am, &c.
Northern Lighthouse OIBce,
SiK, Edinbiu'gh, December 10, 18(i0.
I AM directed by the Commissioners of Xorthern
Lighthouses to acknowledge receipt of your letter of 1st
current transmitting various queries as to the ])ractice of
Messrs. Stevenson in regard to the lamps prepared by them.
Having laid this before the Commissioners, they directed
me to communicate it to Messrs. Stevenson, and I am now
instructed to fonvard a copy of their answer.
I am. Sir,
Your most obedient servant,
Alex, Cunxixgh.a.m,
The Secretary SecrefaiT.
Royal Commission on Lights, &c.
f.'ojiy.
DE.iR Sir, Edinburgh. 7th December 1860.
We have received the letter addressed to the Commis-
sioners by the Royal Commission on Lighthouses, dated 1st
December lS(iO, and we iiave, as requested by you, to make
the folloiving replies to the queries therein contained : —
\st Querij. What was the original position of the burner
as regards the focus of the lens referred to in each of the 1st
class dioptric lights erected by Messrs. A. T. and D. Ste-
venson, and by the late Mr. Stevenson in Scotland ?
Answer. In all of the lighthouses erected by Messrs.
R. A. D. and T. Stevenson, tlie burner in 1st class dioptric
lights was originally placed in the position shown in the
engraved diagram, which is hung up in the light rooms for
regulating the position of burner and size of flame. In that
diagram the top of the burner is 1 J^ inch below the plane
of the focus.
2d Query. Further in detail, what course, if any, the
Messrs. Stevenson adopt in adjusting the position of the
lamp (nith reference to the said focus) to the height of the
light above the water, naming the lights in which the
adjustment has been made, and its amount in each case ?
Answer. Messrs. Stevenson have not made any adjust-
ment of the burner of dioptric lights with reference to the
height of the lights above the water. The highest of the
dioptric lights iu Scotland is 316 feet, and it was not con-
sidered necessary in these cases to adopt any special adjust-
ment. But the necessity for such an adjustment when the
elevation was great was recognized by Mr. Alan Stevenson,
in his " Treatise on Lighthouses,"' and was adopted by the
late Mr. Robert Stevenson in the high catoptric lights, such
as Barrahead, where the reflectors are dipped.
3d and 4th Queries. What course, if any, they adopt, if
they make the above adjustment, in making the further
adjustm.ents of the loiver prisms, so that their said foci may
not be in the metal burner when the lamp has been raised
considerably in consequence of the light being a considerable
height above the water, naming the lights in which this
adjustment has been made, and also (4) what course they
adopt in the above case in adjusting the upper prisms, that
their foci may not when the lamp has been considerably
raised, be in a different section of the flame from that pre-
viously selected by Fresnel, naming the lights in which the
adjustment has been made ?
Answer. For the same reason no special adjustment has
been made of the upper or lower prisms.
oth Query. AVhethcr in any case they have altered the
position of a lens or prism after the illuminating apparatus
has Ijeen erected at a lighthouse, and, if so, in what cases
and for ^^'hat reasons^
Answer. No alteration has been made after the final
a<ijustraent of the light.
6//( Query, ^^'hat precautions arc taken, when old burners
are replaced by new burners, to ensure the correct position
of the flame being acciu-ately preserved ?
Answer. The only ])recaution which is taken in renewing
btirners, is the employment of careful workmen, and the
inspection of the foreman of lighthouse repairs, whose duty
it is to see that the position of the burner is conformable to
the engriived diagram.
In fiu-ther ex-]ilanation we have to state, that in all cases
the apparatus is carefully insi)ected and tested before it
leaves the workshop, and that before a new light is consi-
<lered as finally adjusted in the light room and ready to be
exhibited, observations are made upon it from the sea at
various distances, and in various azimuths, when any im-
perfection that may be detected is rectified.
We arc, &c.
(Signed) D, & T, Stevenson.
A. Cuningham, Esq.,
Secretarv. Northern Lights Board.
L.VTEK OBSERYATIOiN'S 01s THE MAG^ETO-ELECTEIC LIGHT
AND STEAM EOG-SIGNALS.
0/jscrra(ii>n.« by Since tlie oral examination of Professor Hohnes, I have
Dr. Gladstone, visited his works at Northfleet. The electi-o-magnetic ma-
chine there is a smaller one than that used at the South
Foreland Lighthouse, but the lamj) is a great improvement
on that previously employed. It appears to resemble in
]>rinciple the lain)) of M. Serin which he exhibited to me at
Oxford last .luly. It seems simple in construction, and
certainly gave a beautifully steady light, without tlte neces-
sity of any attention. The only fluctuations in the inten-
.sity of the light were probably due to the presence of iron, or
some other im])erfection in the carbons. By means of the
refracting goniometer I made a prismatic analysis of the
light, and determined the foUonnng points, which have some
bearing on lighthouse illimiination : —
1st. The light presents a continuous spectrum, that is, it
includes rays of every refrangibility, and that throughout a
range exceeding the range of bright sunshine in England,
both at the red or least refrangible and at the \iolet or most
refrangible end. 'I'lie character of the light closely resem-
bles that of the sun, but with a larger jiroportion of violet.
2d. \ thick sheet of Mr. Chance's red glass jilaced before
the lamp was found to jiroduce a beautiful red light. On
analysis this was found to consist of a very large amount of
red and orange rays, with a small quantity of gre^n and
blue.
3d. Sheets of green and blue-green glass from Mr.
Chance's works gave rise to green and blue-green lights.
Cobalt blue glass produced a fpurple light, with great re-
duction of the himinosity, and not so striking a modification
of the colour as to render it advisable to employ it as a
means of distinction. Cobalt glass also has this serious
disadvantage for lighthouse jmrposes, that a bright light
seen through it might be altered by a fog from puqile to
red.
-1th. Much \-iolet light of high refrangibility is emitted
from the carbon points. As such light is known not to pass
freely through glass, I particularly examined whether it
formed so large a proportion of the rays as to render thick
dioptric apparatus objectionable, and to incline the experi-
menter to turn his attention to apparatus arranged simply
on the ])rinciple of reflection. 1 found, ho«'ever, that the
interjiosition of a piece of good plate glass about an inch
thick, ])roduced little sensible diminution of the light thrown
on a sliect of white paper held at various distances. By
special contrivances with the jirism, however, I was able to
determine that this glass did make a difference on the ex-
treme violet rays, but so slight that it may fairly be disre-
garded. The light seen at the distance of a mile on a clear
night still exhibited a \'iolet ray. of a refrangibility scarcely
known in sun light, notwithstanding the absoriieut effect of
the atmosphere on such rays.
EXPLANATION OF THE DKAWINGS.
225
The matjneto -electric light is perfectly continuous, and
not a rapid succession of sparks.
Professor Holmes exhil)ited it also in one of the large
reflectors that he proposes for revolving lights. These as
yet are somewhat roughly made, and their reflecting surface
is tin-foil and not silver ; but the elipse and parabola axe
made with considerable approach to correctness, and tlie
apijaratus was fully capable of demonstrating practically
that by this means Mr. Holmes is able to bring all the rays
emitted from the carbon points on to a space subtending
only a few degrees, and to cause very few rays to be sent to
the sky, while the sea and the horizon are brilliantly illumi-
nated." The whole apparatus revohang will cause the hori-
zon to be illuminated in every azimuth by turns, and the
light is not a waxing and waning one, bui commences and
temiinates with a flash. There is another reflector con-
trived so as to give a series of flashes during the period that
the light remains in view ; but the effect of this was not
practicaDy exhibited.
The effect of the light shining in the focus of an ordinary
silvered parabolic reflector was exhibited at night. The
brilliancy of the illumination obtained at the distance of a
mile was" surprising, and the beam from the mirror was com-
prised \vithin very small Umits — not many paces.
Professor Holmes exhibited his steam trumpets also, which
he proposes for use as fog signals. My attention was first
attracted by the noise when within an hotel more than a
mile distant. It was subsequently found that the origin of
the continuous sound had given rise to many conjectures
among the inmates of the said hotel. At the works there
are three of these instruments, the construction of which
was explained, and which require but a small quantity of
steam to produce the sound. A steam whistle also on the
same premises requires a much larger quantity of force to
work it, and produces less noise. The trumpets can be
tuned at will, and so made as to produce whatever note is
found to be heard at the greatest distance. When one of
them was blown in the direction of the Thames, and the
steam suddenly turned off, a double reverberation was
heard from the hills on the other side of the river.
J. H. Gladstone.
Foif xiyjiaL
CIRCULAR TO ADMIRALTY CHART AGENTS,
The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty being desir-
ous to take steps for ensuring that the Admiralty Charts
in the hands of the several chart agents be kept corrected
up to the latest date, and with a view to placing the sale
of the Admiralty Charts generally on a better footing, so
as to render them more accessible to the public, have sanc-
tioned the following regulations, a copy of which is here-
■with transmitted for your guidance.
1. The Admiralty Charts are to be sold at the prices
engraved respectively on the face of them.
•2. The charts in future will be supplied backed and
labelled, and the lights coloured, and no charge is to be
made for the backing.
■3. A commission of 33 per cent, will be allowed on sales,
which is to cover all expenses.
4. Printed copies of Notices to Mariners respecting new
or altered hghts, and Hydrographic Notices of any shoal,
or rock, or channel discovered, that affect your neighbour-
hood, will, in future, be transmitted to you as soon as
published at the Admu-alty. All those printed since the
beginning of the present year are sent herewith.
5. Immediately on the 'receipt of such notices you are to
employ a competent person to insert neatly the necessary
correction in each copy of the chart affected by it that may
be in your possession. In case of a new light it is to be
coloured as are the other lights in the charts.
6. You are strictly enjoined not to sell a copy of the
chart in question until this has been done. And you are
also to give the purchaser a copy of the notice, and to call
his attention to the correction.
7. In order to faciUtate the insertion of the above cor-
rections, the titles and nos. of the charts affected are
marked on each notice. Generally speaking a single copy
of a chart can be corrected in a few minutes. When the
corrections are extensive the chart ivill be cancelled, and
new chart \\'ill be sent to replace it.
8. Cancelled charts are in all eases to be immediately
returned to the Principal Chart Agent in London, when
their cost will be allowed for.
9. A moderate charge for time employed in correcting
the charts may be deducted from the account of sales and
accounted for in the bill.
10. You are to stamp or paste upon the face of every
chart a label containing your name
and address, and write in the date on
which it is sold, as for example :
11. You will place in some con-
spicuous part of your premises a board
or placard with the words "Agent for
the Sale of Admiralty Charts," painted
thereon . ""
By command of their Lordships,
John Washington, Hydrographer
Hydrographic Office, Admiralty,
London.
5 February 1861.
W. Johnson,
Liverpool.
1 March 1861.
ELECTRIC LIGHT.
Further Remarks by the A.stronomer Royal on the
Adoption of the Magneto-electric Light.
Royal Obser\'atory Greenwich,
My dear Sir, London, S.E., 9th April 1861.
I have perused the evidence of Professor Holmes,
given to the Commissioners on January 2d, and have
been much interested with it. It proves beyond doubt the
practicability of the application of the magneto-galvanic
hght to all the purposes of lighthouses for illumination of
the distant horizon ; for illumination of the near sea, and
for tlie purposes of revolving lights. In regard to the last,
I am surprised that any difficulty has presented itself ; the
galvanic hght is as applicable to revoh-ing Ughts as to
fLxed lights, requiring only pretty good mechanical work-
manship in the rotatory parts.
In some of the optical explanations given in the evidence
to which I allude, there is a little inaccuracy. Thus, the
rule given for the adjustment of the central lens in the
answer to question GIO is erroneous ; the position of the
inner surface as reflecting back the Ught being very unim-
portant, while in reality all depends upon its elevation with
reference to the elevation of the lamp. And the rides for
adjusting the prisms are not perfectly accurate.
In fact, I found by internal inspection of the South
Foreland high lighthouse, and also l.iy external comparison
of the light of the high hghthouse 'with that of the low
hghthouse, that the optical parts of the high lighthouse
even now are ill adjusted, though probably in a better state
than before Professor Holmes examined them.
I entirely agree with Professor Holmes in his strong con-
demnation of the selection of the Dungeness hghthouse as
a place for trial of the magneto-galvanic light. It is cer-
tainly the worst station for that purpose (except, perhaps,
the Spurn) in the whole circumference of Britain.
I am, vc.j dear Sir,
Yours very truly.
Admiral W. A. B. Hamilton, G. B. Airy.
&c. &c. &c.
ELECTRIC LIIJHT TO BE USED IN FRANCE.
The following paragraph states that the French Govern-
ment are about to use the electric light to some extent.
The Commission ha.-e no time to inform themselves of
the facts; but they reprint the paragraph in order that
attention may be drawn to the subject.
" The Minister of Marine has decided to estabUsh eight
" electric lights on the coast of the department of the
" Seine Infe'rieure. These eight lights are to be placed at
" Cape de la Heve, Cape Antifer, Etretat, Fe'camp,
" St. Valery-en-Caux, the point of Adly, Dieppe, and
" Treport. The object of these hghts is to maintain a
" communication with ships mthiii sight of land, and to
" transmit the news rapidly to the interior. A contract
" was concluded at the Mai-me-office at Havre on Saturday
" last for the construction of these eight lights."
Ff
226
APPENDIX TO REPORT ON LIGHTS, EUOTS, AND BEACOJiS.
EXPLANATION OF THE DRAWINGS.
Plate I. LiGHTHOcsE Flames and Teansparext
Landscape.
The transparent landscape is traced from photo-
graphs taken for the purpose at Whitby on the 9tli
of August 1860, and subsequently enlarged to scale.
The small circles on and above the horizon represent
the sun at various altitudes, and are taken from a
photograph made July 13, to give a scale. The image
is of the same size as that which is formed in the focus
of a first order lighthouse lens, and roughly repre-
sents half a degree on a circle with a radius of 0' 920
niillcmetres, which is the focal length of such a leus.
The South Whitby Lighthouse, which is represented,
was photographed from a point a few inches above
the top rail of the North Lighthouse, which is on the
same level, and distant 774 feet.
The elevation of the light above the sea level is
240 feet. The top rail is the level or geometrical
horizon. The place where the sea horizon cuts the
tower marks the angle of dip.
The height of the South Lighthouse from base to
vane is 48 feet.
The passing ships were either represented in the
photographs, or their positions were marked on ground
glass placed on the burners in the Lighthouses.
The wreck was not seen, but a wreck had taken
place near the spot shortly before the Commissioners
visited Whitby, and sailors complained that the light
was hidden, by " the gallery," as they imagined.
The lines parallel to the horizon give a scale of
degrees, constructed from a circle with a radius equal
to the focal length of the Lighthouse lens ; and from
this scale, distances on the sea can be ascertained by
inspection of the table calculated by Mr. Chance from
data furnished to him by Captain Ryder.
The drawings of Lighthouse flames are of the full
natural size.
The original drawings were taken either from
enlarged photographs of the flames, or from drawings
made by eye, and by measurement in the several light-
houses named, or l>y tracing, on ground, glass the
image of the flame formed by a small lens.
This last method was suggested by Professor
Faraday on the 13th of October 1860, and was used
by him in preparing the drawing of the Whitby
flame, which is copied from his report to the
Trinity House.
The six drawings of Lighthouse flames are so
placed that a straight line cuts them all at the distance
above the burners at which the image of the visible
horizon was actually formed by the lenses of the
several lighthouses named, when they were visited
and inspected by the Commission.
The transparent landscape is so placed that the sea
horizon coincides with the straight lines which cut
the flames, and the circle in each flame marks the
chief focus, and the position and size of the sun's
image in the flame, when it is lighted at sunset, if the
sun is visible in the proper direction on the sea
horizon.
The whole is intended to show roughly, but with
tolerable accuracy, what portions of the landscape
would be illuminated by flames of various shapes and
sizes, which really existed in the lighthouses named —
if such flames were placed in the North Whitby
Lighthouse, at an elevation of 240 feet above the sea
level, and there placed with reference to the refract-
ug portions of the apparatus, and the visible horizon
ot the image formed by it, in the same position as
the flames in question really occupied when they
were drawn.
Thus an observer above the South Whitby Light-
house would see a good light, and one at the end of
the dwelling-house would see light from the points of
the flame in the North Lighthouse, through the refract-
ing band ; and an observer in the field near the lower
wall would see no light from such a flame ; but if the
limdscape be turned over the Calais flame, the points
reach nearly to the nearest wall, and such a light so
jilaced with reference to the horizon, would be seen
from the wall where the small flame was invisible
while an observer on the horizon would see the
brightest part of the flame.
The image of a steamer passed along the ground
glass which was placed on the burne- at the North
Whitby Lighthouse on the 9th of August, 1860,
while the Commissioners were making their observa-
tions. The position of the image of the steamer was
marked with a pencil, and it is represented in the
transparent drawing, three inches above the burner
at the Start. No light at all could have reached that
steamer through the refracting bands of the apparatus
at the North Whitby Lighthouse, from flames such as
those which were found at the Start and Minehead,
and hardly any light could get to the steamer from
the lamp actually used at North Whitby (see
drawing).
These drawings are fair representations of the
flames produced by using a fountain lamp, and sup-
pressing one of the four wicks, — which was the almost
imiversal practice in using dioptric apparatus in
England and Ireland, when the Commission was
appointed. The practice was different in France and
in Scotland.
It will be found on reference to former pages,
that observations made by day from within were
tested at night by looking at the lighthouse from
ascertained points outside, and that the observations
so made proved each other.
This drawing relates only to the refracting por-
tions of the apparatus, but similar drawings could be
made for all parts, and sketches have been made.
Plate 2. Drawings op the average Scotcu and
English Flames and of the Electric Light.
These were taken from jihotographs, and may bo
here compared with each other, and with the diagram
(No. 3), which shows the consumption of oil in each
lighthouse under the three General Lighthouse Au-
thorities.
The electric light is represented of fuU size, beside
the full-sized lighthouse flames as now exhibited in
France and Scotland, and in England and Ireland. The
drawing shows how unfit the large apparatus con-
structed for large flames, must be for such a minute
spark as the magneto-electric light, and how necessary
it was to make some special arrangement to cause
vertical divergence at the South Foreland, when the
electric light was exhibited there in a first order
dioptric apparatus.
It will be seen that the light is rather smaller than
the image of the sun on the scale, which is placed
near it for comparison ; and it follows that in a well
made large lens, no light could reach the sea from
such a light, placed on a level in the focus.
An enlarged representation of the electric light is
also given to show its general appcai'ance more dis-
tinctly. It is magnified about 25 times.
The scale was thus constructed : — a photographic
camera (with a small stop touching the lens outside)
was directed towards the sun on a clear day, aliout
noon, and carefully focused ; and a sensitive plate
was placed in the slide in the usual way.
The cap of the lens was then taken off and re-
placed instantaneously, and the time noted ; and the
operation was repeated at intervals during 20 minutes;
after which the plate was developed in the usual
way.
EXPLANATION OF THE DRAWINGS.
227
The sun's apparent semi-diameter on the meridian,
for tlio day in question, is given in the nautical alma-
naclv ; and gives tlie sun's apparent diameter as
31' 32". 4, or very nearly half a degree on the centre
of the sensitive plate, and it gives a scale for all
photographs taken with that lens, at that focal
dist.ance.
The sun moved half a degree .along a given path
in two minutes of time, a whole degree in four
minutes, and live degrees in twenty minutes ; which
gives another scale of degrees of a smaller circle
nearly parallel to the equator.
All the landscapes were taken with the same
camera, at the same focal distance as the solar
scale, but they were taken on a flat surface, and
they arc consequently distorted to a certain amount.
The lens was small, and the pictures had to be
enlarged to represent the image formed by a Light-
house lens.
The length of half a degree on a circle, with a
radius equal to the focal lengths of a first order
Lighthouse leus, (0"920 millemeters, as given in
the French returns), being ascertained, the solar pho-
tographic scale was enlarged in a camera with the
same lens reversed, and it was enlarged so that the
diameter of the sun's image nearly coincided with
half a degree, and the scale so enlarged was photo-
graphed, and is given in Plate 2.
A negative of a landscape was then substituted for
the negative of the solar scale, and printed by the
same process, at the same distance, and a tracing
was made from the photographs so taken, and the
result is given in Plate 1.
The Landscape represents the image formed by the
lens.
The instrument used was not such as to ensure
very great accuracy, but the result is not far from
the "truth.
Plate 3. DiAGRAJf snowiNG the Consumption of Drawings.
Oil inLightiiousks under thk three General •
Authorities. (To face Plato 2.)
The vertical scale in this drawing represents the
number of gallons consumed in 1857, and each coluinu
a Lighthouse. The horizontal scale corresponds with
the numbers on tlie Ma]) ; thus I. is the Fern, tlie
first in England ; LXXXIII., the Calf of Man, the
first in Scotland; and CXXIX., Pool Beg, the first
in Ireland.
Plate 4. represents the same lighthouses arranged in
the same order. The vertical scale shows the incoino
and expenditure for each light. See page 120, Vol I.,
for remarks on this diagram.
Plate 5. Map of the United Kingdom, — showing
stations of coast guard ships of war, head quarters of
divisions, and " coast guard stations."
Plate 6. Index Map, — showing, 1st, the position,
range, character, and colour of lights in the United
Kingdom.
2d. The names of places at which there are local
authorities having charge of lights, buoys, and
beacons. See explanation on the map itself.
The whole of these drawings are shaded on one
principle. Oil is shown as light on a dark ground ; as
that from which light is produced. The flames, as the
sources of light, are shown light on a dark ground, and
the ranges of the lighthouses are represented as disks
and portions of disks of light on a dark sea.
The radius of each circle on the map shows the
distance at which " a light is visible from the horizon,"
in clear weather ; as shown on a map published " by
order of the Board of Trade."
LONDON:
Printed by Geokge E. Evre and William Spottiswoode,
Printers to the Queen's most Excellent Majesty.
For Her Majesty's Stationery Office.
^
X. ^.
\
=- ^
— ^
-r -^
Z'.
[^
■ =i,-*s
-I >,
*i
XS. t'
5='^l
5
^"5
•i
•- i 5
— :
5 2$
^
= f
^
-r ;
5^fl
<
^ s-
:6;
=
•4
6£:
i k\ii''
pnn^^:
r4*kA#^-^^^-^-f-tl^$%7f
r,/
-\.\ Hi M^:i
fsl
i
If
MituUi's efti/ne, m iJw SumpiitJuluhl.i'^'Iftec. P/tUct/rri/L^iM
fnmUu'Siin &mlar(/iul to sniliin a canieni Jf=OMin//hmttfvs
^ ^ i 5 ^
nil
W^^y-M^
■SW^.A.-f
%.
\
</)
1-
•^
X
^
o
UJ
•^
z
~v.
•^
"<^
lJ
■~^
1
:^
X
^
-I
■s
1-
S:
Li.
:^
5,iH 1857
Ifi.X) - -^i
H- ■''■
.. :fr^pfi];4
, .,.+. -4-^~ .J^
Sfotliuid 7;\i-
FniJice - 78f> "
Rcdulaliun
li„j.-h«,<l 474 |&;irxrli
Irelmid - 4+;
Dipi SanjAlXfW t^ QoMtv.
■^®
-^^ik-^-'^^r-v^
liil^ 1141 ll-S'^3 ^g^fj^^
^i
2-7
3