This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project
to make the world's books discoverable online.
It has survived long enough for the copyright to expire and the book to enter the public domain. A public domain book is one that was never subject
to copyright or whose legal copyright term has expired. Whether a book is in the public domain may vary country to country. Public domain books
are our gateways to the past, representing a wealth of history, culture and knowledge that's often difficult to discover.
Marks, notations and other marginalia present in the original volume will appear in this file - a reminder of this book's long journey from the
publisher to a library and finally to you.
Usage guidelines
Google is proud to partner with libraries to digitize public domain materials and make them widely accessible. Public domain books belong to the
public and we are merely their custodians. Nevertheless, this work is expensive, so in order to keep providing this resource, we have taken steps to
prevent abuse by commercial parties, including placing technical restrictions on automated querying.
We also ask that you:
+ Make non-commercial use of the files We designed Google Book Search for use by individuals, and we request that you use these files for
personal, non-commercial purposes.
+ Refrain from automated querying Do not send automated queries of any sort to Google's system: If you are conducting research on machine
translation, optical character recognition or other areas where access to a large amount of text is helpful, please contact us. We encourage the
use of public domain materials for these purposes and may be able to help.
+ Maintain attribution The Google "watermark" you see on each file is essential for informing people about this project and helping them find
additional materials through Google Book Search. Please do not remove it.
+ Keep it legal Whatever your use, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that what you are doing is legal. Do not assume that just
because we believe a book is in the public domain for users in the United States, that the work is also in the public domain for users in other
countries. Whether a book is still in copyright varies from country to country, and we can't offer guidance on whether any specific use of
any specific book is allowed. Please do not assume that a book's appearance in Google Book Search means it can be used in any manner
anywhere in the world. Copyright infringement liability can be quite severe.
About Google Book Search
Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers
discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web
atjhttp : //books . qooqle . com/
*
^*Jr
,iifk
X^r
Jr ^
» SjTn-
i
A M
*
* **•»
y&*
m
w
• - ^- JF
-"
- T -
*jr
Digitized by
1
i
If*
r;**
/
TRANSACTIONS
OF THfi
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY,
HEtD AT - •
PHILADELPHIA,
FOR PROMOTING
USEFUL KNOWLEDGE.
VOLUME VL
PUBLISHED BY
C. AND A* CONRAD AND CO* PHILADELPHIA. CONRAD, LUCAS AND CO.
BALTIMORE. SOMERVELL AND CONRAD, PETERSBURG, AND BONSAL,
CONRAD AND CO. NORFOLK.
[JANE AITKBN, FftIVTEB'3
Digitized by
Google
L Se^ -^fcSS"' \0Q
Itro
Digitized by
Google
District of Pennsylvania, to wit:
(L. & ) BE IT REMEMBERED, That on the first day
of July, in the thirty third year of the Independence of the Uni-
ted States of America, A. D. 1809,
C. & A. Conrad and Company, of said district have deposited
in this office, the title of a book, the right whereof they claim as
proprietors, in the words following, to wit :
" Transactions of the American Philosophical Society, held at
" Philadelphia, Jbr promoting useful Knowledge. Vol. VI."
In conformity to the act of the Congress of the United States,
intituled "An Act for the encouragement of Learning, by secu-
ring the copies of Maps, Charts, and Books, to the authors and
proprietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned,"
And also to the act entitled, "An Act supplementary to an act
entitled "An Act for the encouragement of learning, by securing
the Copies of Maps, Charts, and Books, to the authors and pro-
prietors of such copies, during the time therein mentioned," and
extending the benefits thereof to the arts of designing, engraving
and etching historical and other prints.
D. CALDWELL, Clerk of the *
District Court of Pennsylvania.
Digitized by
Google
t> ut Uvvowv\v& are we ^\*5L* aA.o^V«A W \Xu, <vov>e/m
xmkA, cX v)ow.w\VU^ Vw vim, cWce cX foatam V*
^vtbi. u(^$W, \Xvt (vymotv^ cX \%& ^mimllUe*
cccuo\ce cX toato/v* Xat \Jae to/re^ ^uouXA avu*au& w
uvae Vmtarclaixce or ^VwvvOlaVvlu cX VUe fruWcA^ <yr
cclue a&*>au\aQA«u& TftOuiw/r cX VrcaVvna va«/m^ mvaoufc
u ^e\tf/u&Y\vai I© aixawer^ or \a maU vae &oc\&Vu au-
U bwvxQJwb*) Wr \,we cwcVavufcu cX \X\e Wcta^ w ^cW\*W
^ cX vtae wafccnvvtxAA^ cwvWiiuA, m vae frew/raV* faa^*"*
ccer vjAxvmfcu\> cX Vawc w&tafcYwe auva&Y*.
occoxxAXal. cc(>)\iaV mwiwr \J(\& o©c\fcV\w wot Vtve
^^otwwvA\m> cX vae ta/te^ &© «a>w cvtwvaevr ctavwum
ua& a wA/\u utawv auu Jhato/v \Xveu mau itawU&u^
cc or ufaon. auu *\wwc\> cX *PQy\ or J>a\wte« \WV come*
Digitized by
Google
TRANSACTIONS
OF THE
AMERICAN
PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY,
HELD AT
PHILADELPHIA,
FOR PROMOTING
USEFUL KNOWLEDGE.
VOLUME VWPART L
PHILADELPHIA:
FROM THE FRE83 OF THE LATE R. AITEEH.
BY JANE AITKEJV, JVb. 20, WORTH THIRD STREET.
1804.
Digitized by
Google
' • 1,00
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS
OF VOLUME VI.~ PART L
I. AN Account qfthe Langmgeof Signs, among certainNorth
American Indians. By William Dunbar, Esq. of Nat-
chez on the Mississippi; Member of ttie Society ; communi-
cated by Thomas Jefferson, President qf the Society. 1
II. Meteorological Observations for one entire Year, ending tfie
Slst qf January 1800, made by William Dunbar, Esq.
: at the Forest, 4.J. miks East of the Mississippi, in Lat. 31*
28' N. and Long. 91° 30' W. of Greenwich; on an
Eminence about 150 Feet above t/ie Level of the highest Wa-
ters qfthe annual Inundation of the Mississippi. Commu-
nicated by the President of the Society. 9
III. inscription qf a singular Phenomenon seen nt Baton
Rouge, by William Dunbar Esq. Communicated by the
4 ' President of the Society. 25
IV. A short and easy Rule for finding the Equation for the
Change of Sun9 s Declination, when equal Altitudes are used
to regulate a Clock or other Time-Keeper. By Andrew
EUkott, Esq. Communicated by the Author. 26
V. Account of an extraordinary Flight qf Meteors (commonly
called shooting Stars). Communicated by Andrew EUkott
Esq. as extracted from his Journal, in a Voyage from New-
Orleans to Philadelphia. 28
VI. An improved Method qf projecting and measuring plane
Angles. By R. Patterson. Communicated by Andrew
Elhcott Esq. 29
VIL Sur la Theoriedes Vents. Par M. Dupont de Nemours. 32
d
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS.
No. P*«*
VIII. Extracts of a fatter from William Dunbar Esq. of the
Natchez, to the President of the Society; relating to jowl
Bones found in Louisiana, and to Lunar Rainbows observed
West of the Mississippi. 40
IX. Meteorological Observations, made by Wdliam Dunbar
Esq. at the Forest 4 Miles West of the Mississippi, in fat.
31*. 28'. tf. and fang. 91°. 30'. W. of Greenwich,
for the Year 1 800 — with Remarks on the State of the Wea-
ther, Vtgetatioh, Kc. calculated to give some Idea of the
Climate of that Country. 4S
X. Abstract of a Communication from Mr. Martin Duralde,
relative to fossil Bones Kc. found in the Country of Apebu-
sas, West of the Mississippi — to William Dunbar lEsq. of
the Natchez, and by trim transmitted to the Society. 55
XI. Observations made on a Lunar Eclipse, at the Observato-
ry in the City of Ptuladelphia, on the 2 1st of Septemer
1801; by R. Patterson and A. EllicotL 59
XII. On the Hybernation of Swalbws; by the late Colonel
Antes. Communicated by Dr. Barton. 59
XIII. Astronomical Observations made at Lancaster, Penn-
sylvania, chiejly xtith a View to ascertain the Longitude of
that Borough, and as a Test of the Accuracy with which the
Longitude may be found by Lunar Observation; in a fatter
from A. Ellicoit to R. Patterson* 61
XIV. Notices of the Natural History qfthe northerly Parts of
- Louisiana; in a Letter from Dr. John Wat kins to Dr. Barton. 69
XV. On two Species of Sphex, inhabiting Virginia and Penn-
sylvania, and probably ex(endi?ig through the United States.
By Benjamin H. Latrobe. 73
XVI. Memorandum of a new Vegetable MuscipUla. By
Dr. Barton. 1*
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS.
H*. Page,
XVII* On the Claying of Sugar — describing a new and eah
nomical Mode tf conducting tikat Process. By Jonathan
Williams Esq. 82
XVIII. An Account of some newty discovered Islands and
Shoals in the Indian Seas. By Mr. Thomas, an Officer on
board the American Ship Ganges. 87
XIX. First Report of Benjamin H. Latrobe, to the Ameri-
can PhMosoptdcal Society ', in Answer to the Enquiry, "whe-
ther any, and ufhat Improvements have been made in the
Construction of Steam-Engines, in America?" $&
XX. An Account of the Fusion of Strontites, and Volatilim-
tion of Platinum; and also qf a new Arrangement of Appa-
ratus. Communicated by -Robert Hare, jun. a Member of
the Society. 99
XJKI. An Account ondDes^tion^qf^C^k^khtu^Ptrfh
rations, contrived to obviate the Necessity qf a Vent»Peg% in
tapping air-tight <Gasks< % Helbett Bare, jm. 105
XjKII. Some Account of a new Species of North American
Lizard. By Dr. Barton. 108
X^III. Continuation tjf Astronomical Observations, made at
Lancaster, Pennsylvania; in a Letter from A. Ellicott, Esq,
to R. Patterson. 113
XXIV. Observations and Experiments relating to equivocal,
or spontaneous Generation. By J Priestley, L. L. D.
F. R. & n»
XXV. Observations on the Discovery qf Nitre in common
Salt, which had been frequently mixed with Snow; in a Let-
ter to Dr. Wistar,fromJ. Priestley, L. L. D. F. R. S. 129
XXVI. A Letter on the supposed Fortifications of the Western
Country; from Bishop Madison of Virginia, to Dr. Barton. 1 32
Digitized by
Google
XXVII. Supplement to the Account qf the Dipus America
nus, in the IV Vol. of the Transection* of tlie Society,
No, XII, By Dr. Barton. 143
XXVIII. Hints on tlie Etymology qf certain English Words,
and on tlteir affinity to Words in the Languages of different
European, Asiatic, and American (Indian) Nations; in a
Letter from Dr. Barton tq Dr, Thomas Beddoes, 145
XXIX. Astronomical Observations, made by Jose Joaquin
de Ferrer, chiefly for the Purpose of determining the geo«
grap/tical Position qf various Places in the United States, and
other Parts of North America. Communicated by the Au*
thor. 158
XXX. Description of the River Mississippi and its Delta,
with that of the adjacent Parts qf Louisiana; by, William
Dunbar Es<j, qf the Natchez. Communicated by the Au-
thor, through the President of the Society. 165
XXXI. Abstract of Meteorological Observations for the Years
1801, 1802, and 1803, made at the Natchez; by Wil-
liam Dunbar Esq. 188
Proceedings qf the Society on the death qf their late eminent
Associate, Joseph Priestley, L. X. Df F. R. S. # 190
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS.
OF VOLUME VI.— PART IL
Nb, Page,
XXXII. APPENDIX to Memoir No. XXX, of the 1st Part
of this Volume,, on the Mississippi. — By fFUHam Dunbar, of
Natchez. 191
XXXIII. Demonstration of a Geometrical Theorem ; by Joseph
Clay Esq. qf Philadelphia. 201
XXXIV. An Account and Description of Capt. W. Mugford**
Temporary Rudder, and for which the Extra Magellanic
Premium was awarded. 203
XXXV. Facts and Observations relative to the Beaver of North
America ; by Mr. John Heckewelder, in answer to queries pro-
posed to htm by Professor Barton. 209
XXXVI. Memoir on the occultation of Aldebaran by the moon,
on the 2lst of October, 1793 ; by Jose Joaquin de Ferrer. 213
XXXVII. The Geographical position of sundry places in North
America, and the W. indies; calculated by J. J. de Ferrer. 221
1. From an occultation of the 1st Satellite of Jupiter by
the moon; observed at New- Orleans by Mr. A. Ellicott, and at
the Royal Obs. of the Island of Leon by Don J. Ortis de Cane*
las, and at the naU obs. Pans by M. Mechain, on the 15th day
qfJan. 1799. # 225
2. From the passage of Mercury over the disk of the sun,
May 7th, 1799. 226
3. From an Egress of Mercury, from the sun's disk ; ob- •
served by Mr. A. EUicott, at Miller's place, Coenecuch River. 230
Determination of the diameters of the Sun and Mercury,
conjunction in the ecliptic, and error of the tables in longitude. 232
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS.
Mo. p^
XXXVIII. Continuation of the Astronomical Observations, made
at Lancaster, in Penn. by Mr. A. EUicott. . 23S
XXXIX. A Description of a cave on Crooked Creek, with remarks
and observations, on nitre and gun-powder ; by Samuel Brown,
M. D. of Lexington, Kentucky. ' \ 235
XL. Ah Essay on the ver million colour of the blood, and on the dif-
ferent colours of the metallic oxides, with an application of these*
principles to the arts; by S. F. Conover M. L>. 247
XLI. Observations of the eclipse of the sun, June 16th 1806
made at Lancaster, by A. EUicott, Esq. 255
XLII. Observations of the same ; made at the forest near Akf-
chez ; by William Dunbar Esq. 260
XLIII. Observations on the same eclipse, made at Kinder hook, in
the state of N. York; by J. J. de Ferrer and J. GarnetU 264
XLIV. Observations on the same, made at Bowdoin College, in
the district of Maine; by a member af the society. 27 S
XLV* On finding the longitude from the moon's meridian altitude;
by William Juunbor. 277
&LVI. An account of the Freestone quarries on the Potomac and
Rappaharmoc rivers ; by B. H. Latrobe. 283
XJL.VII. Further observations on the eclipse of 16M June, 1806,
a determination of the longitude of Natchez and New-Orleans,
also, an investigation qfthe semi-diameters qfthe sun and moon;
by J. J. de Ferrer. 293
XL VIII. Observations on the same eclipse; made by Aimeon de
Win E$q. <f Albany, State of New-York. , 300
XLIX. Description and use of a new and simple Nautical Chart,
for working the diffeitnt problems in Navigation; for which
the Extra Magellanic Premium was awarded; by John Gar-
nett Esq. of fifew~Brunswick, New- Jersey. 303
L. Observations to serve for a mineralogical map of the State of
Maryland; by S. Oodon. 319
LI. Memoir on the meteoric stones which fell from the atmo-
sphere,, in the state tf Connecticut, on the 14*A of December
1 -
Digitized by
Google
CONTENTS.
He. ^ • Page-
1807 ; by Benjamin SUKman, professor of Chemistry in Yale
College, and Mr. James L. Kingsley. 323
LII. Observations on the comet winch appeared in September
1807 ,in the island of Cuba ; made by J. J. de Ferrer. 345
Continuation of the Astronomical Observations, made by
him at the same place. 347
Also the following Calculations by him —
Solar eclipse -of June 16th 1806, in the City ofHaoama. 351
Longitude ofHavamia, by the observations compared with
the new tables, published at Paris in 1806. 352
Passage qf Venus over the disk of the sun, June Sd 1769. 352
Passage qfMer. over the disk of the sun, Nov. 12th 1782. 356
Passage ofMer. aver the disk of the sun, Nov. 5th 1787. 356
Annular eclipse — April 3d, 1791. 357
LIII. Notes, with corrections, to be applied to the geographical
situations inserted from page 158 to page 164, in the first part
of the present Volume of Transactions ; by J. J. de Ferrer. 360
Additional Observations on the Solar Eclipse of 16th June,
1806 ; by the same. 362
Appendix to memoir XXXVI— observations of the dead-
tation of y * on October 2lst, 1793 ; by the same. 354
LIV. Observations on the comet, 1807 — 8 ; by TV. Dunbar. 368
LV. Correspondence between Capt. William Jones of Philadel-
phia, and WiBiam Jones Esq. Civil Engineer of Calcutta, re-
lative to the principles and practice of Building in India. 375
LVL Observations on the foregoing correspondence ;* by1 B. K.
Latrobe, Surveyor of the Public Buildings of the U. States. 384
LVII. A general method of finding the roots of numeral equations
to any degree of exactness, with the application of logarithms
to shorten the operation; by J. Garnett Esq. 391
LVIII. On the best angles for the sails of a Wind-mitt; by John
Garnett Esq. 394
Digitized by
Google
Content's.
LIX. Extract of a letter from a member of the Society, relative
to the great cold in HaUoweU, Massachuscts, in 1807. 401
LX. Statement of deaths and diseases in the City and Liberties qf
Philadelphia for 1807, 1808 — Communicated by tine Board
<f Health. 403
LXI. An account qf l Experiments made on Palladium, found com-
bined withtmre gold; by Joseph Cloud, an officer cf the Mint
of the U. States. 407
LXII. Observations on the Geology of the U. States, explanatory
qfa Geological Map ; by W. Maclure. 411
LXIII. Astronomical Observations made at the Havanria, 1809 ;
by J. J. de Ferrer. 428
(D* Notice of a new machine Jbr steering vessels. 428
DONATIONS,
Received since printing the preceding list.
Humboldt (Le Baron de,) His ouvrage sur le nivellement baromi*
trique de la Cordillera des Andes, Paris, 4to.
Dublin Society, the following Statistical Surveys, 8vo.
Of the county of Armagh by Sir Charles Coote, Bart. 1804.
ditto Kildare, by Thomas J. Rawson Esq. 1807.
ditto Wexford, by Robert Frazer Escj. 1807.
Observations on sowing spring wheat, publ. by their order, 1807.
Catalogue of their Library, classed under proper heads, 1807.
Sketch of Lectures on meadow and pasture grasses, delivered
in the. Botanical garden of the Dublin Society ; by Water
Wade Esq. Yrof. of Botany, 1808.
Digitized by
Google
District of Pennsylvania. To wit :
(L. S.) Be It KtmttribtXtt). That on the twenty-
third day of March — in the twenty-eighth year of the Indepen-
dence of the United States of America — Jane Aitken of the
said District hath deposited in this office, the Title of a Book, the
right whereof she claims as Proprietor, in the words following to
wit:
44 Transactions of the American Philosophical Society* held at
" Philadelphia, for promoting useful knowledge."
VOLUME VI.— PART I.
In conformity to the Act of the Congress of the United States, en-
tituled, " An Act for the encouragement of Learning, by securing
the copies of Maps, Charts, and Books to the* Authors and Pro-
prietors of such copies during the times therein mentioned" And
also to the act entituled €i An Act supplementary to an act enthuled,
u An Act for the encouragement of Learning by securing the
copies of Maps, Charts and Books to the Authors and Proprie-
tors of such Copies during the times therein mentioned" and ex-
tending the benefits thereof to the Arts of designing, engraving and
etching historical and other prints."
4
D. CALDWELL,
Clerk of t/ie District of Pennsylvania.
Digitized by
Google
[ fr 1
ADVERTISEMENT.
The following are the Rules adopted for the govern-
ment of Committers j& the choice of papers for
■ publication*
First. " That the grounds of the Committeers
a choice of papers for the press, should always be
u the importance oe singularity of the subjects,.
a or the advantageous manner of treating them,.
** without pretending to answer* or to make thor
" the society answerable, for the certainty of the
'* facts, or propriety of the reasonings, contained
c< in the several papers so published, which must
" still rest on the credit or judgment of their re-
u spective authors..
Secondly. "That neither the Society, nor the
" Committee of the press, do ever give their
u opinion as a body, upon any paper they may
u publish, or upon any subject of Art or Nature
* that comes before them."
Digitized by
Google
C * J
LIST op the OFFICERS
•F TKB
1
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY,
For the Tear 1804.
Patron. Thomas M'Ke an, Gwbrko* of the Stats of ¥%mm**HtM*
President.. Thomas Jefferfon.
Vice-Presidents.
SECRETARIES,.
COVKCBIXORS.
CinurroM*
Teeasdrbu
r Robert Patterfbnv
/Cafpar Wiftar.
Q Benjamin Smith Bartom
{John Redman Coxe.
Adam Scybert.
Thomas C. James.
Thomas T. Hewfon..
r James Woodhoufe.
Benjamin H. Latrobe*
Samuel Duffield.
Jonathan Williams*
Andrew Ellicotu
Samuel Magawv
Nicholas Collin*
Tench Coxe.
William Whiter
. Jonathan B. Smitfi.
Adam Kuhn.
Peter S. Duponceau.
SC W. Peak.
Robert Hire, Jun.
John Church.
Joha Vaugjun*
Digitized by
Google
[ * ]
«HHHHBHHS»
LIST of the MEMBERS
or TM
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIEIY.
Sieged £nce April 1801.
American Members.
Thomas Cooper, Northumberland.
William BamweH, M. D. Philadelphia.
William Stephen Jacobs, M. D. do.
James Mcafc, M. D. - do.
Philip S. Phyfick, M. D. dou
John Church, M. D. do;
John Garnett, Brunfwick New Jcrfey*
Robert Hare, Jun. Philadelphia.
Benjamin Dearborn, Bofton.
Francis Nichols, Philadelphia.
David Ramfay, M. D. Charlefton, S. C.
Merewether Lewis, Virginia*
Robert Gilmor, Jun. Baltimore.
David Humphreys, Rhode Ifland;
Jpflma Gilpin, Philadelphia*
Foreign Members.
Jarvis Roebuck, M. D. St. Croix.
William Roxburgh, M. D. Calcutta.
El Marques de Casa Trujo, Minis. Plenip. & Envoy Extra, from the Court
of Spain, to the U. S*
Peter Blecher Olfen, late Danifli Minis. Res. and Cons. Gen. to the U. S.
Letombe, late Cona. Gen. from the French Republic.
Philip Rofe Roume, member of the French National Inftitute.
El Cavallero Don. Valentin de Foronda, Cons. Gen. from the Court of
Spain, to the U. S.
Benjamin Count of Rumford, of Great Britain.
Jean Baptifte Jofeph Delambre, one of .the Secretaries of the National In-
stitute of France.
Daniel Melanderhjelm, member of the Royal Swedifh Academy of Sciences.
Eric Profperin, profeflbr of Aftronomy in the Univerfity of Upfcrf.
Digitized by
Googie
L vii ]
Conditions of the Magellanic Premium.
M. JOHN Hyacinth De Magellan, in London, haying fometime ago
offered as a donation, to the American Philofophical Society held at Phi*
ladelphia for promoting ufeful knowledge, the fum of two hundred guineas,
to be by them veiled in a fecure and permanent fund, to the end that the
int. reft arifing therefrom (hould be annually difpofed of in premiums, to be
adjudged by the fociety, to the author of the bed difcovery, or mod ufeful
invention, relating to navigation, aftronomy, or natural philofophy (mere
natural hiftory only excepted) and the fociety having accepted of the above
donation, hereby publifh the condicions, prefcribed by the donor, and
agreed to by the fociety, upon which the faid annual premiums will he
awarded.
1. The candidate (hall (end his difcovery, invention, or improvement,
addrefled to the Preddent, or one of the Vice-Prefidents of the fociety,
free of poftage or other charges; and (hall diftinguifti his performance by
fome motto device or other fignature, at his pleafure. Together with his
difcovery, invention, or improvement, he (hall alfo fend a fealed letter, con-
taining the fame motto device or fignature, and fubfcribed with the real
name, and place of refidence of the author.
2. Perfons of any nation, fe&, or denomination whatever, (hall be ad-
mitted as candidates for this premium.
3. No difcovery, invention, or improvement (hall be entitled to this
premium, which hath been already publilhed, or for which the author hath
been publicly rewarded elfc where.
4. The candidate (hall communicate his difcovery, invention, or improve-
ment, either in the Englifh, French, German, or Latin language.
5. All fuch communications, (hall be publickly read, or exhibited to the
fociety, at fome dated meeting, not lefs than one month previous to the
day of adjudication; and (hall at all times be open to the infpc&ion
of fuch members as (hall defire it. But no member (hall carry home
with him the communication, defcription, or model, except the officer
to whom it (hall be intruded; nor (hall fuch officer part with the fame
out of his cuftody, without a fpecial order of the fociety for that pur-
pofe»
6. The fociety having previoufly referred the feveral communications.
from candidates for the premium then depending, to the con fi deration of
the twelve counsellors and other officers of the fociety, and having re-
Digitized by
Google
«••
rill MAGELLANIC PREMIUM,
ceived their report thereon, (hall, at one of their dated meetings in
the month of December, annually, after the expiration of thi9 current
year, (of the time and place, together with the particular occaGon of
which meeting, due notice (hall be previoufly given, by public advertife-
ment) procted ,to the final adjudication of the faid premium: and after
due confederation had, a vote {hall firft be taken on this queftion, viz.
Whether any of the communications then under infpe£tion be worthy of
the propofed premium? If this queftion be determined in the negative,
the whole bufinefs (hall be deferred till another year: but if in the affir-
mative, the fociety (hall proceed to determine by ballot, given by the
members at* large, the difcovery, invention, or improvement, moft ufe-
ful and worthy; and that difcovery, invention, or improvement, which
(hall be found to have a majority of concurring votes in its favour (hall
be fuccefsful; and then, and not till then, the fealed letter accompany-
ing the crowned performance (hall be opened, and the name of the author
announced as the perfon entitled to the faid premium.
7. No member of the fociety who is a candidate for the premium
then depending, or who hath not previoufly declared to the fociety, either
by word or writing, that he has considered and weighed, according to
the bed of his judgment, the comparative merits of the feveral claims
then under confideration, (hall fit in judgment, or give his vote in awarding
the faid premium.
8. A full account of the crowned fubjeft (hall be publi(hed by the
fociety, as foon as may be after the adjudication, either in a feparat^
publication, or in the next fucceeding volume of their tranfa&ions, or in
both.
9. The unfuccefsful performances (hall remain under confideration, and
their authors be confidered as candidates for the premium, for five years
next fucceeding the time of their presentment $ except fuch performances
as their authors may, in the mean time, think fit to withdraw. And the
fociety (hall, annually, publilh an abftraft of the titles, objett or fubjeft
matter of the communications fo under confideration j fuch only excepted
as the fociety (hall think not worthy of public notice.
10. The letters containing the names of authors whofe performance*
(hall be teje&ed, or which (hall be found unfuccefsful after a tryal of five
years, (hall be burnt before the fociety, without breaking the feals.
11. In cafe there (hould be a failure, in any year, of any communi-
cation worthy of the propofed premium, there will then be two premiums
to be awarded in the next year. But no accumulation of premiums (hall
entitle an author to more than one premium for any one difcovery, invention,
or improvement.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. IX
12. The premium (hall confift of an oval plate of folid ftandard gold,
of the value of ten guineas ; on one fide thereof fiiall be neatly engraved
a fcort Latin motto, fuited to the occafion, together with the word*
The premium of John Hyacinth de Magellan, of London, eftablifhed
in the year 1786. And on the other fide of the plate (hall be engraved
thefc words. Awarded by-the A, P. S. for the difcovery of ■■■ »
A. D.—
And the feal of the (beiety (hall be annexed to the medal, by a ribbon
palling through a (mall hole at the lower edge thereof*
DONATIONS
Received by the American Philosophical Society, since the Publica-
tion of the Fifth Vol. of their Transactions.
FOR THE LIBRARY.
TROM THE RESPECTIVE SOCIETIES.
NOVA Acta Acad. Scient. Imp. Petrop. Tom. 12. 1801, 4to.
Nouveaux Memoires de L* Academie Royale dcs Sciences et Bel-
les Lettres, pour les Annges, 1786—1798, Tom. 1 — 9. Ber-
lin. 4to.
Memorias de la Real Academia de la Historia, Tom. 1 — 3. 1796,
1796, 1799. Madrid, 4to.
Catalogo de los individuos actuates. Madrid, 1803.
Oracion funebre por £1 Exc°. el Conde de Campomanes,
por Don J. Traggia. Madrid, 1802.
— : — Dos Oracioftesal Rey, 1785, 1788.
Nucvos Estatutos de la Real Academia. Madrid, 1792.
Juntas publicas de la Real Sociedad Economica de Amigos del
Pays, de Valencia, celebradas 1799, 1800. 2 Tom. 4to.
Verhandelingen van het Bataafsch Genootschap, der proefonder-
vindelyke Wysbegeerte te Rotterdam, Deel. 7, 8, 10—12,
1793—1798, 4to.
Nieuwe Verhandelingen, &c. Deel. 1, 2. Te Amsterdam,
1800, 1801, 4to.
Memoires de L'Institut National des Sciences et des Arts, 3me et
4me, Tomes, pour les Annges, 9, 11. Paris, 4to. The
1st & 2d vol. were sent, but have miscarried.
— — Memoire sur les Collections de Voyages des de Bry et de
Thevenot. Par A. G. Camus, membre de l'Inst, L'an. 11,
Paris, 4to. Printed at the expence of the Institute.
b
Digitized by
Google
X DONATIONS TOR (THE XJBRAR3T.
Gottingensis Reg, Soc, Scien. Nov! Commentarii. Tom. 5—8.
1774—1777, 4to.
— Comn^ntationes. Tom. l-*-14, 1778-r— 1799, 4tQ.
Transactions of the Society of Arts, Manufactures and Com-
merce, 1—20 Vol. JLond. i783-?-18Q2, 8vo.
Transactions of the Linnean Society, i-*-~6 VcJ. Lond. 1791—
1802, 4to.
Archaelogia, or Transactions of the Society of Antiquaries of Lon-
don, 1—13 Vol. 1779^1800, 4ta
Transactions of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, 1—4 Vol.
and 1st & 2nd part of 5th Vol. 1788 — 1802, 4to.
Transactions of the Literary jand Philosophical Society of Man*
Chester, Vols. 4th & 5th, 2 parts each, 1793 — 1802, 8va
Transactions of the Historical Society of Massachusetts, l-~8
Vols. Boston, 1792-T-1795 & 1798—1802, 8vo. Also a
catalogue of their Library.
Prospectus, Charter, Grcjinanoes, &c. of the Royal Institution
of G. Britain; with lists of Proprietors, &c. Lond. -1800, 4to.
Communication from the Pennsylvania Society for the encourage-
ment of manufactures and the useful aits. PhilacL 1804, avo.
The Transactions, of the Royal Irish Academy, 2-^8 Vote, 4to.
and of the Haarlem Society, 1—42 Vols. 8vo, are on thei*
way, but are not yet received.
Batavian Republic; By the Council ofche Interior.
The Flora Batava. Drawings by J. C. $c$p fie Son* JQe-
scription by J. Kbps. Numbers 1—12. Amsterdam. Cotumen-
ced 1800.
FROM INDIVIDUALS.
Adams (John — L. L. D.). The 2d & 3d, vols, of his Defence of
the American Constitutions; to complete the work. London.
1787, 1788, 8vo.
Aitken (Jane). The present laws of the College of New Jersey. Phi-
lad. 1802. 8vo.
Ramsay's (Dayid — M. D.) History of the American Revo-
lution, 2 vols. Philad. 1789, 8vo.
Linn's (Rev. J. B.) Discourse on the death of the Rev. Dr.
John Ewing. Philad. 1802. 8vo.
Digitized by
Google
9ONATI0NS FOR THE LIBRARY, XI
Roscoe's (William) Life of Lorenzo de Medici, 1 — 3 vols.
Philad. J803, 8vo.
Bridges (Robert), Murillo Velarde's Historiadela Prov. dePhU
lipinas, de la Compama de Jesus, 2da parte. Manilla, 1749, fol.
Vicente de Salazar's Historia dc la Prov. de Philipinas,
China, y Tunking. 3a parte. Manilla, 1742, fol.
Barnwell (William M. D). His Physical investigations and deduc-
tions from medical and surgical fadts, Philad. 1802, 8vo.
Bradford (& F). Sir William Jones's Asiatic Researches 1 — 6 voL
Lond. 1801, 8vo.
— Poeseos Asiatics Commentarii. Au6lore Gulielmo Jones,
A M. Lond. 1774, 8va
Barton {William— A. M.). His Dissertation on the freedom of na-
vigation and maritime commerce. Philad. 1802, 8vo.
— — Observations on the Trial by Jury, with remarks on Jurispru-
dence, By an American. Strasburg, 1803, 8vo.
Barton (Benjamin Smith, M. D.) His Supplement to a memoir, on
the fascinating quality of the Rattle-snake. Philad. 1800, 8vo.
The 1st & 2d parts of his Cclle&ions for an essay towards a
materia medka of the United Statesv Philad. 1801,
1804, 8vo.
- — His Elements of Botany parts 1st & 2d> Philad. 1803, 8vo.
— ^— Rittenhouse's (David, Lrite President of the A. P. SO Oration
delivered before the Society. PhMaA 1775, 4ta
La Cepede's Discours cPouverture du Cours de Zoologie
de Pan 9. Paris 4to.
Belknap's { Jeremiah, by his widow) 2d vol of American Biogra-
phy. Boston. 1798. 8va
Birch ( W. Yv) & SmaU (A,). RusscPs (WO History of Ancient
Europe. 2 vote. Philad 1801, 8vo.
_Russel's(WO History of Modern Europe. 1—5 vols. Philad
phia. 1801, 8va
-h— Waikh*s (A. F. M.) Domestic Encyclopedia, Edited by
James Meas6« M. D. 5 Vols. Philad 1803-4, 8vo.
.Brown (S— M. D.) A plan of the Muscle shoals in Tcnessee river.
Buchan (Earl cff Dryburg Abbey, Scotland). The Plan of the
City of Washington presented to him by Genw Washington.
Byrne (Patrick). HarWan's (R.) Essay on Manures, Dublin,
1801, 8vo.
Culley's (G) Observations on Live-stock. Dublin, 1789, 8va
Careys (M). Artowsmisth's Map of the discoveries m North Ame»
rica. L*4& M9&
Digitized by
Google
XU DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Priestley's (Joseph, L. L. D — F. R. S.) Biographical Charts
to the present time 4to. Description, 8vo. Philad. 1803.
Campbell (Rose). Quinologia b tratado del arbol de la quina &c. por
Don Hipolito Ruiz, primer Botanico del Expedicion del Pe-
ril. Madrid, 1792, 4to.
Unanue's (Don J, H.) Disertacion sobre el cultivo, &c.
dela planta Coca del Peri, with a specimen of the leaves^
Lima, 1794, 4to.
Chauncey (Charles). The Transactions of tlie Agricultural Socie-
ty of the State of Connecticut. 4to,
Collin (Nicholas, D. D). Prospering (Erico) " Dissertatio de
Cognitione Probabili, Uplandi, 1767, 4to.
— — Serenus's (Jacob) Dictionary of Swedish, Latin & English.
Hamburg, 1734, 4to.
Conrad (I. & Co). Volney's Lectures on History. Philad. 1801,
8vo. . %
— -ChaptaPs Elements of Chemistry. Philad. 1801, 8vo.
Coxe (J. R. — M. D.). His Practical observations on Vaccination.
Philad. 1802, 8vo.
Ackerman Suardy & Co's Analitical Hints on their pro-
cess, to render Cloth &c. water-proof. London, 1801, 8vo.
On Vaccination; several small publications from England;
with an account of the Royal Jennerian Institution establish^
ed for the extermination of the small pox. London. 1803.
Dana (Francis). Catalogus Bibliothecae Harvardianae Cantabrigiae
Nov. Anglorum. Bostoniae, 1790.
Dalton (J). His Meteorological Observations & Essays. Lond.
1793, 8vo.
Drayton (John). His View of South Carolina as respects natu^
ral and civil concerns. Charleston, 1802, 8vo.
Dobson (Thomas). Smith's (Carmichael) Essay on nitrous fumi-
gation. Philadelphia 1799 8vo.
Foronda (Le Chev. Don Valentin de) Cons. Gen. from Spain to
the U. S. The following works of which he is the Author or
Translator.
Cartas Sobre la Economica Politica y sobre las leyes crimi-
nates, 2 Tom. Madrid, 1789, 1794, 8vo.
— — Coleccion de Varios discursos; 2d Ed. Madrid, 1793, 8vo»
Lecciones Ligeras de Chimica. Madrid, 1791v 8vo.
Cartas sobre la Policia. Madrid, 1801, 12mo.
Reflexiones sobre la Memoria de Don Gabriel de Ciscar
tocante a los neuvos pesos y medidas decimates.
Digitized by
Google
• • •
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. XU1
-—Carta sobre la que debe hacer un Principe que tenga colonias
& gran distancia. Philad. 1803, 8vo.
Carta sobre contribuciones. 18.00.
Memoriae sobre la Fabricacion de Hosphales; leidas en la Real
Academia de Paris. Traducidas al Castellano, 8vo.
Traduccion (con muchas notas) de las Instituciones Politicas de
Bielfield, tratando delos Reynos de Portugal y Espana^
Burdeos. 1781.
La Logica de Condillac puesta en Dialogo ; 2d Ed. Madrid*
1800, 12mo.
Fahlburg (Samuel, M • D). An additional map of St. Bartholo-
mews, shewing a dangerous Shoal in its vicinity.
Fothergill (Ant. M. D. — F. R. S.). His Essay on the preserva-
tion of shipwrecked mariners. London, 2d Ed. 1800, 8vo.
Annual reports of the Royal Humane Society for 1801, 1803.
■ Anniversary Sermons before the R. H. S. by Dr. Valpy Lon-
don, 1802, 8vo. by the Bishop of Glocester London,
1803, 8vo.
—Pocket Instructions from the R H. S. for the prevention of
premature death.
■ An Engraving and account of the Marine Spencer.
The Philanthropist, a play, by M. Jenkins.
Rules, Orders and premiums &c. of the Bath and West of
England Society. Bath, 1802.
Garnett (L). His plain and concise Projection for clearing the Lu-
nar distances from the effects of parallax and refraction. Bruns-
wick N. J. 1801.
Printed specimen of a Table of Logarithms, Idem 1803.
His Edition of " Clarke's Seaman's desiderata." Brunswick
N. J. 1803.
Gregoire. il PApologie de Barthelemy de las Casas." Paris
Pan. 8, 4to.
Groff (J). Aikin's (C. R.) Concise view &c. of facts concerning
, the Vaccine or Cow-Pock. Philad. Ed. with a new Ap-
pendix 1801. 12mo.
Hatchett (C). His Analysis of a mineral substance from North-
America, containing a metal hitherto unknown. From the
Transactions' of the R. S.Lond. 4to. •
Haygarth (John, M. D). His Medical Transactions, 1—4 Vol.
Bath, 1801, 8vo.
Hupsch (Le Baron de). " Description de machines et remedy
pout detroire les Insectes nuisibles," Colog. 1797, 12mo,
Digitized by
Google
XIY DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Hupsch(Le Baron de). "Nouvelle decbuverte, d'tlne methode
efficace de traiter les hommes qui nc sont morts qu*en appar-
ence," Cologne, 1789, 12mo.
" Patriotische Vorschlage die Ausbreitung der jets herschen-
den landesvcrderblichen Hornviebseuche." Cologne,
1776, 12mo.
Proposal to exchange objects of Natural History &c. Cologne
1802.
4< Tablettes Synoptiques et Systematiques de son Cabinet des
Curiosites Naturelles." premiere partie. Regne Mineral
Cologne, 1797, 8vo.
Brion's (C. L. I. de) Relation du Cabinet et de la Biblioteque,
consacres a 1'usage public, par M. Le Baron de Hupsch.
Cologne, 1792, 8vo.
Idem — Historischer und pragmatischer Beweis der grossen
und vielfachen Verdienste des. Freyh Von Hupsch. Go--
logne, 1799, 8vo.
Humphreys (J). Parke's (Mungo) Travels in the interior of Afri-
ca 1795—7 with Majbr Rennd's Geographical Illustrations*
Philad. Ed. 1800, 8vo.
Robertson's (Wm. D. D.) Hist erf N. Am- Philad. 1799, «vo.
—Parkinson's (James) Chemical pocket booh with an appendix :
by J. Woodhouser M. D. Philad. Ed. 1801, 12*1*
——Gleanings of Husbandry Gardening Sec. from 2d London Ed,
with remarks by a gentleman: of Philad. 1803, 8vo.
——Graves's (Robert M. D.) Pocket Conspectus of the Lon«
don and Edinburgh Pharmacopoeias. Philad. 1804, 12mo.
Jacobs ( W. S- M. D ). His Student's Chemical Pocket Companion*
Philad. 1802, 12mo.
Knox (Rev. S.). An Essay on the means of improving public
Education- Fredericktown, 1803, 8vo.
Laforgue (L.). "PArt du Dentiste" Paris, Pan. 10, 8vo.
Latimer (J.). Mereurio Peruano de Historic, Lheratora 8tc. pot
una Sociedad Academica de Atoan&s dd Pays, fi Totnos,
Lima, 1791, Enero & Agosto, 4ia
Leslie (R). Wm. Tatham's Political Oeconomy of Inland Navig*.
tkm. Philad. 1799, 4to.
Repertory of Arts 1—12 Vol. to the year 1800, Lond. 8vo*
Lettsom f John Coakley, M. D.). His Essay on the Cow Poju
Lond. 1801, 4to.
—Hints to promote Beneficowe, Ttmpenmcc,, Ac ]**-d^Vti&
Loud 1801, ffvo*
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOE THE LIBRARY. XV
— Haygarth's (John M. D.). Enquiry how to prcvcnHhe Small*
Pox. Bath, 1801, 8vo.
Levingston (R. R. — Am. Minis, in France). Exposition PuWique
des produits de l'industrie Fran^oise. Paris Pan. 10, 12mo.
Morgan (J). Sir Alexander Mackenzie's Voyage through the con-
tinent of North America to the Pacific ocean, 2 Vol* Phila*
1802, Bvo.
—— Forsyth's (WO Treatise on the culture and management of
Fruit Trees, with plates. Philad. 1802, 8vo.
Moore (Thos). His exposition of the great error of American
Agriculture. -Baltimore, 1801* 8vo.
Essay on Ice-houses, and an account of a newly discovered
Refrigerator. Baltimore, 1803, 8vo.
Mosely (Benj. M. D.). The 2d Ed. of his Medical Tracts. London,
1800, 8vo.
Ormrod (J). Win. L. Browned Essay on the natural equality of man.
Philad. 1803, 8vo.
Poulin(J). Les Saisons de Thompson traduites en Vers Francois.
2 Vol. Paris, 1802, 8vo.
Pugh (S). Six copies of his " Observations sur les moyens de
perfectkomer les Barometres." Rouen, Pan. 8, 4to.
Proud (R). His History of Pennsylvania. 2 Vols. Phila. 1797, 8vo.
Peale (C. W). His Epistle to a friend on the means of preserving
health. Philad. 1803, avo.
Peale (Rembrant). His account of the Skeleton of the Mammoth.
Lond. 1802, ?8vo.
Historical disquisition on the Mammoth- Lond. 1803, 8 vo.
Priestley (Joseph) F. JL S. — L. L. B.). His History of Early opi-
nions concerning Christ, 4Vok. Birmingham, 1786, 8vo.
—Discourses on various Subjects. Birm. 1787, 8vo.
~-— Miscellaneous Observations on Education, 2 Ed. 1788, 8vo>
Letters to Burke. 1791, 8vo.
. Letters to the Philosophers of France, &c. Lond. 1793, 8vo.
—-*- Answer to Paine's Age of Reason. Lond. 1795, 8vo.
Letters to the Inhabitants of Birmingham. 1790. 8vo.
Two appeals on the Riots of Birmingham. 1792, 8vo.
Forms of Prayer, &c. for Unitarian Societies. Birmingham,
1783, 8vo.
— —Remarks on Wakefield & Evanson, in letters to a young man.
Lond. 1st part, 1792, 2d part 1793.
—Lectures. on History, with a Chapter on the Constitution
of the U. S. 2 Vol Phila. 1803, 8va
Digitized by
Google
XVI DONATION'S FOR THE LIBRARY.
Sermon on a Fast day, April 1793, at Hackney. Lon. 1793.
Doctrine of Phlogiston established, 8vo. Northd. 1803.
Collins on Human Liberty, re-published with a preface by
J. P. 1790, 8vo.
Spalding (Lyman, M. B). Bills of Mortality for Portsmouth, New-
Hampshire, for 1801-2-3, collected and arranged by him.
Smith (Richard, of Huntingdon). Dobb's (Arthur). Account of
the country adjacent to Hudson's Bay, Lond. 1744, 4to.
Maupertuis on the figure of the Earth, and measurement of a
degree of Longitude. Translation. London, 1788, 8vo.
Ustaritz (Don G. de). On the Theory and Practice of Com-
merce. Dublin, 1752, 8vo.
Coxe's (Tench) View of the United States. Phila. 1794, 8vo.
Account of the Establishment of Washington College Mary-
land. Phila. 1784, 8va
■ ■ Missionalia or pieces relative to the Missions to the Africans,
and American Indians. London 1727, 8vo.
Smith (Wm. L. L. D.), Dickinson (John). Their Essay on
the Constitutional Power of G. Britain over America.
Philad. 1774, 8vo.
Smith (Chas. Lancaster). Pitisci Lexicon Antiquitatum Roman-
orum. Tomi. 2, Leovardiae, 1713, fol.
Murray's (S. Alexr) True Interest of Great Britain and Ire-
land and the Plantations ; and proposals for an union.
London, 1740 fol.
Widow and Children's fund, of the Church of England in
Scotland. Edinb. 1748 fol.
— i — iEliani Sophistae Variae Historian, cum versione Justi Vulteji,
et Jacobi Perizonii commentario, Lugduni, Batav. 2
Tom. 1701, Svo.
Limborch (Philip, a) de veritate religionis Christianas. Godae,
1687, 4to.
Kersey's (John) Elements of Algebra. London, 1673, fol.
Frv (Joseph and Son's), specimens of printing Types. Lond.
1785, Svo.
Parker's (Richard) History and Antiquities of the University of
Cambridge G. B. London, 1622, 8vo.
Star rat's (William) Doctrine of projeftiles applied to Gunne-
ry. Dublin 1733, 8vo.
Grew's (Thcophilus) Tables of the sun and moon fitted to the
meridian of Philadelphia. Manuscript, 1746, 4to.
Ali Ben, Ali Taleb Carolina Arabice et Latine edidit et notis
illusttavit Gerardus Kuypers. Lugduni Batav. 1745, 8vo.
* Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. XVli
Smith (Charles). Sullivan's (Thomas) Journal of the American
War from 1775 to 1778, Manuscript, 8vo.
Smith (Jon. B.) White's (John, Surgeon Gen. to the Settle-
ment). Journal of a Voyage to New South Wales, with 65
plates of natural productions. London, 1790. 4to.
Tracy (Destut). " Project D*Elements d'Idiologie" (2 copies)
Paris, Pan 9, 8vo.
Vaughan (Sam. J un.) Dictionaire, Orient. D'Herbelot. Mastricht,
1776, folio.
Supplement, par Visdelou and Galand, 1780.
Pere Duhalde's description of China and Chinese Tartaiy I^o-
rea and Thibet, 2 Vols, with the Charts bound separate.
London, 1738, 1748, folio.
Aikin's (John, M. D). Description of Manchester and its
environs. London, 1795, 4to.
Vaughan (Benj). Geo R. Minot's continuation of the History of
Massachusetts Bay, from 1748 to 1763. 2 Vols. Boston, 1798,
1803, 8vo.
Vaughan (John of Delaware). Valedictory Lecture to the Philoso-
cal Society of Delaware * Wilmington, 12mo.
Vaughan (John of Philad.) Kliyogg of Switzerland, or an account
of the Rural Socrates. Hallowell, Maine, 1800, 8vo.
— Smeaton's (John). Experimental enquiry concerning the
powers of water and wind to turn mills. London, 1794.
-rChalmer's (Geo). Estimate of the Comparative Strength of G.
Britain. London, 1783, 4to.
Priestley (Joseph, L. L. D. — F. R. S.) 3d Vol. Experiments
&c. on Air, to complete the set Birmingham, 1780, 8vo.
Comparison of the Institutions of Moses with those of the Hin-
doos. Northumberland, 1799 8vo.
Ramsay's (David, M. D.) History of the Revolution of South
Carolina 2 Vols. Trenton, 1785, 8vo.
Medical Register for 1802 Charleston, S. C. 12mo.
Seward's (Wm. Wenman) Topographia Hibernica. Dublin*
1795,. 4to.
Hutchinson's (Thomas) History of Massachusetts. 2 Vols.
Salem, 1795, 8vo.
Covering's ^Robt). Essay on the Construction of Chimnies,
3d Ed. London, 1793, 8vo.
Waterhouse (Benj. M. D.) Two pamphlets on the Variolse
Vaccinae orCow-Pox. Boston, 1800, & 1802, 8vo.
-—Publications by the Board of Agriculture, Massachusetts, 8vo.
c
Digitized by
Google
¥V4{1 pqNATtlQNS FOR THE LIBRARY*
Vaughn (John pf PbiW.) Eddy's (Thomas) account of the State
Prison of New- York. 2d Ed. I8QQ, Sva
— . — \Yinkehqan's Duitcn a^d German pict. Amst. 1796, 8vo.
— — -Dutch and Germap Gran>niar. Rotterdam.
Binns's ( Johu) Treatise on practical farafiiqg, and the use of
Gypsuijn Frederick-town, 1803, '8va
Valentin (Louis, M. D.) M. de Commere, sur la Culture de }a Ra-
cine de #sette ou Betterave Champetre. Paris, 1798.
Lettre du CommittS medical de Paris, sur Pirmowtytion dc la
Vaccine, Pan 9.
■" Resultats de l'innocul^tron de la Vaccine cl^ns quatre depart-
ments d? France." Sjrasburg, 18i02t 8vo.
Wilkinson (Greo. ofG. B.) His Experiments and observations on
the Cortex Sialic^ J^xifcliau Ne^-Ca^tle, Tyne. 1803*. 8vq,
UNi'VHBEBrrar *o? itbnnsyi/vania.
INAUGURAL DISSERTATIONS.
Fpr the degree of X>Q&ov ia Medicine, presented by the aij-
thors or the professors qf that institution. PbilajdL 8yo.
Ashton (Henry, Viig.) On the remitting ac4 intermitting bilious
Fever of some counties ity Virginia, 1803.
Carter (Robert Virg. J Comparative enquiry into the pr<verties
andus^sof Qpium, 1803.
Dorsey (Jqfui. S. Philadelphia). On $he Ljthontriptic Virtues of the
Gastric Liquor, 1802.
Downie (\*(m. lyfaryland). On the properties of the Sanguinaria
Canadensis or ruccoon, 1803*
Duval (Grafton, Md) On the M,elig Azedarach of Linnaeus, 1802.
Geddy (John C. of Virg.} On the absorption of Medicines, 1802*
Holmes ( Robert, Virg, ) On the properties of the Bignonia Catal-
pa of Linnaeus, 1803,
Hutchinson (Jam^s, Philad.) On the conversion of Chyle into
Blood, 1803.
Jackson (H. Geo.) On the efficacy of external applications, 1802.
Jacobs (Wm. S. Brabant). On Urinary and Intestinal Calculi, 180 L
Logan {Geo. S. Carolina). On the Hepatic State of Fever, 1802.
Mace (John, Maryland) On the Proximate caupe of Disease, 1802.
Macrery (Jos. Del.) On th$ principle of Animation, Wilming-
mington, 1802.
Martin (John, Delaware). On the Vitality of the tyood, 1802.
Massey (T. Virg.) On the properties of the Poly gala Senega, 1803.
McDonald (Thompson, Virg.) On the Cynanche Trachealis,1802.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. XiX
Meredith {Charles of Penns.) On Phthisis Pulmonalis, 1802.
Mitchel (John S. PennS.) On the Arbutus Uva Ursiand Pyrola
umbellata and maculata of Linnaeus, 1803.
Morris (Chas. Virg.) On the Primus Virginiana, or Wild Cherry
T>ee, 1802.
Nelson ( Wm. Virg.) On the management of Peruvian Bark, 1 802.
Oswald 'John, & Carolina). On the Phenomena of suspended
animal life, 1802.
Pendegrast (G. E, Natches). Physical and Topographical Sketch of
the Mississipi Territory, Lower Louisiana, and part of West
Florida, 1803.
Price (Thomas D. Virginia). On the Magnolia Glauca, or com-
mon White Laurel tree, 1802.
Roebuck (Jarvis, St. Croix). Experiments and observations bfrtht
Bile, 1801.
Rogers (P. Kerr, Philad.) On the properties of the Liriodendron
Tulipifera, or Poplar Tree, 1802.
Rowan (Thomas of N. J.) On the Hydrocephalic state of Fever,
1803.
Semmes (Thos. Virg.) On the Effects of Lead in Medicine, 1801.
Spencer (Oliver H. New-Orleans). On Digestion, 1803.
Stephenson (G. Gordon, Md>. On the disease of Gonorrhoea, 1803.
Scott (Franklin). On the Means of counteracting the deleterious
effects of opihm, 18&2.
Thomas (George G. Virg.) On the Kalmia Latifolia and Angus-
tifblia, 1802.
Thompson (Hedge, N. Jersey). On the Spigelia Marilandica or
Indian Pink, 1802.,
Wahnsley (Thomas* Pfenns.)! On Glandular Appetency or the Ab-
sorption of Medicines, 1802,
Walker (John M. Virginia). Comparison between the virtues of
the Cornus Florida and Sericea, and the Cinchona officinalis of
Linnaeus* 1803.
Washington fWm, Virginia). On the Diabetes, 1802.
Whiteford (Hugh, Maryland). On the Catataenia, 1802.
Wilson (Daniel, Virg.) On the Morbid effbets of Opium, 1803.
Young (John RL Maryland). On the principles of nutrition and the
digestive process, 1803.
FOR THE CABINET.
Armenteros (Josef Garcia de). A valuable collection of Shells from
Manilla, ("presented through the President of the Society .J
Digitized by
Google
XX DONATIONS FOR THE CABINET.
Barton (Benj. S.) A medal struck by order of Congress, in com-
memoration of the surrender of Gen. Burgoyne to Gen. Gates.
A Specimen of Earthen Ware, formed fromClay procured from
Lancaster County.
A Specimen of the Argilla Porcellana, from the foot of the Ke-
tocton Mountain, Near Hagers-Town, Maryland.
Brown (John, Kentucky). A Portion of the Cranium and part of
the horn of an animal supposed to be of the Bison kind — from
the root of the Horn to the middle Suture, measures 7
inches; and the horn is 22 inches in circum. at the root. It
was found in a Creek falling into tht Ohio River.
Brown (Samuel M. D.) An Amulet (Roman Catholic) found a
considerable depth under ground near Nashville, Tennesee.
Campbel (Rose) An Arrow Belt with Poison'd arrows, with a
Tube to blow them through, 7 feet in length, from Peru.
Coxe (J. R.) Cast in Profile, bionzed, of Lavoisier.
Coates (Joseph) Two Bezoar or Serpent Stones from Hydrabad in
Indostan.
Levingston ( R. R.) Specimens of Pyrites from Flanders, which
when burnt are used as manures; also specimens of clay s and
spar used in the China manufactory at Seves near Paris.
Poyntell (William). A Storm Glass with observations thereon du-
ring a Voyage from Europe, 1803.
Sanson (Joseph). A Cast Bust of Franklin, first President of the So-
ciety. By Flaxman, from Houdon.
Shaw (H. G.) and Duplessis (P. B.) Calculus weighing 181b.
found in the Duodenum of a horse.
Smith (T. P.) late Associate of the Society. He left to it by Will,
numerous Specimens ol minerals, collected in various parts
of Europe. 80 whereof from the French Council of mines,
others from Hauy, Watt, &c.
Smith (Geo.) Two fine Specimens of Rock Chrystal, from La Plata.
Vaughan (J. Philad.) 32 Specimens of copper Coins or Medall-
ions from the Soho Mint, England.
Williams (Jonathan). A Patent right to a new Mode of refining
Sugar of which an account will be found in No. XVII of the
present Volume. It is free for public use, and further experi-
ments are invited.
Morris (R. H.) Some building materials towards making an alter-
ation in the Hall of the Society.
Digitized by
Google
( XX* )
LIST
or THE
OFFICERS
OF THE
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY,
*0R THE YEAR 1809.
Patron. Simon Snyder, Governor of the State of Pennsylvania.
President. Thomas Jefferson.
("Robert Patterson.
Vice-Presidents. < Caspar Wistar.
(.Benjamin Smith Barton.
Secretaries.
COTJNCELLORS.
Thomas C. James.
^ TThomas T. Hewson.
* 1 Nathaniel Chapman.
*-Mahlon Dickerson.
fWilliam White.
Peter S. Duponceau.
Jonathan Williams.
William Short.
John M'Dowell.
Zaccheus Collins*
Jonathan B. Smith.
Nicholas Collin.
Andrew Ellicott.
Benjamin Rush.
William Tilghman.
James Woodhouse. (lately deceased.)
fCharles W. Peale.
Curators*..... < Robert Hare Jun.
(John R. Smith.
Librarian
and
Treasurer.
i
John Vaughan.
Digitized by
Google
( *xii )
LIST
OF THE MEMBERS
OF THE
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY,
ELECTED SINCE JANUARY, 1804.
Members resident in the United States.
William Short, Virginia.
Joseph Willard, D. D. late Pres. of Hav. Coll. Mass. (since deceased.)
Zaccheus Collins, Philadelphia.
John Maclean, M. D. Professor of Natural Philosophy and Chemistry in
the College of New- Jersey*
Edward Miller, M. D. New-York.
Rev. John Prince, Salem, Massachusetts.
Captain William Jones, Philadelphia.
Charles Smith, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Samuel Webber, President of Havard College, Massachusetts-
Samuel Moore, Philadelphia.
F. Adrian Vanderkemp, State of New- York.
Benjamin Silliman, Professor of Chemistry and Natural History, Yale Col-
lege, Connecticut.
William Tilghman, Chief Justice of Pennsylvania.
Bushrod Washington, Mount Vernon, Virginia.
Joseph Cloud, Philadelphia.
Rev. Samuel B. Wiley, Philadelphia.
William Dubourg, D. D. President of St. Mary's College, Baltimore.
Joseph Sansom, Philadelphia.
Samuel F. Conover, M. D. Philadelphia.
Mahlon Dickerson, Philadelphia.
Irene Dupont de Nemours, Wilmington, Delaware.
Nathaniel Chapman, M. D. Philadelphia.
John M'Dowell, Provost of the University of Pennsylvania.
Ferdinand R. Hassler, Math. Prof, at the U. S. Miht. Acad. West Point.
George Izard, Pennsylvania. '
James Gibson, Philadelphia.
Archibald Bruce, M. D. Prof, of Mineralogy in the University of N. York.
Edward Penington, Philadelphia.
Horace Binney, ditto.
Rev. William Staughton, D. D. ditto.
Robert Fulton, New-York.
Digitized by
Google
t
UST OP AMERICAN MEMBERS. XXiir
Silvaii^ Godon, Philadelphia.
Gebrge William .Featherstonhaugh, Duanesborough, New- York,
Rev. D. B. Warden, State of New- York.
Robert M. Patterson, M. D. Philadelphia.
Thomas Moore, Maryland.
James Winthrop, Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Nathaniel Bowditch, Salem, Massachusetts.
Joel Barlow, District of Columbia.
Foreign Members.
The Prince de la Paz, of the Kingdom of Spain.
Don Pedro Cevallos, ditto.
Don Antonio Josef de Cavanilles, ditto, (since deceased.)
Edward Jenner, M. D. London.
William Hawes, M. D. London, (since deceased.)
Baron Alexander de Humboldt, of Berlin.
Destut Tracy, Paris.
Qlaf Swartz, Professor of the Bergian Institute of Horticulture in Sweden.
M artinus Van Marum, M. D. Secretary to the Batavian Society of Scien-
ces, at Haarlem.
Francisco de Borja G. Stockier, Secretary of the Royal Academy of Sci- .
ences, Lisbon.
Adrian Giles Camper, Anatomist, Friesland, Holland.
John Eric Forstrom, St. Bartholomews.
Charles Philibert de Lasteyrie, Paris.
Ross Cuthbert, of Lower Canada.
F. Anttre Michaux, M. D. Paris.
CONDITIONS
OF THE
EXTRA MAGELLANIC-PREMIUM.
M. DE MAGELLAN having fixed at ten Guineas, the sum tb be an-
nually disposed of as a Premium, according to the strict terms of the dona-
tion, and tne Magellanic Fund having been so managed as to produce an
annual surplus, the Society, with a view to promote as far as may be in their
power the liberal intentions of the donor, have determined that the above
surplus shall be disposed of under the following
REGULATIONS.
1. The surplus Magellanic-Premium may be awarded at such stated
meeting of the Society, as shall be agreed to, at a previous stated meeting,
due notice being given thereof to the members.
Digitized by
Google
1
XXIV EXTRA MAGELLANIC-PREMIUM.
2. Every communication which shall have been offered with a view to
the Magellanic-Premium, and to which the same shall not have been award-
ed, shall (except such as the Society shall not think at all worthy of notice)
be again taken into consideration, with a view to the awarding of the surplus
premium ; and if such communication shall, at such meeting, be thought
within the general view of the donation, and to be sufficiently valuable to
deserve a public reward, a surplus premium may be awarded to the author
thereof.
3. The surplus premium shall consist of a gold medal, of the value of not
less than twenty dollars, nor more than forty-five dollars, engraved with
a similar device to that of the original premium, except that it shall contain
the words " Extra Magellanic-Premium," or at the option of the success-
ful candidate, the value of such medal in money, accompanied with a Di-
ploma on parchment, with the seal of the Society.
4. All the rules and regulations concerning the application for the award-
ing of the original Magellanic-Premium, shall be adhered to in the case of
the surplus premium, in so far as they are not hereby modified or derogated
from ; unless, in very special cases, for the rewarding of some essentially
useful discovery or improvement, two thirds of the members of the Society
Present at a meeting, appointed for the awarding of the surplus Magellanic-
'remium, shall, by their votes, taken by ballot or otherwise, direct.
5. The Society shall propose and publish, as often as they think proper,
such a number of subjects as they think fit, to which they shall call the at-
tention of the candidates for the original and surplus Magellanic-Premiums,
and invite their communications thereon,. informing them at the same time,
that although communications on such subjects will be acceptable to the So-
ciety, yet they shall not entitle their authors to a preference over more me-
ritorious communications on other subjects, equally within the strict or ge-
neral view (as the case may be) of the Magellanic donation.
6. The surplus-premium will not be exclusively applied to actual inven-
tions or improvements, but will also be extended to such valuable commu-
nications, within the general view of the donation, as may lead to useful
discoveries, inventions or improvements.
The Society have thought proper at present to propose the following
subjects :
1. The best experimental essay on native American permanent dyes or
pigments, accompanied by specimens.
2. The best means of navigating our rapid rivers against the stream.
3. The best essay on the general natural history of the ranges of Ameri-
can mountains in tne country east of the river Mississippi.
4. The best essay on the natural history and chemical qualities of the hot
and warm springs of the United States, or of any one of them.
Digitized by
Google
( XXV )
DONATIONS
Received by the American Philosophical Society, since the Publication
qfVoL VI, Part I, of their Transactions.
FOR THE LIBRARY.
FROM THE RESPECTIVE SOCIETIES.
NOVA Acta Acad. Scient. Imp. Petrop. Tom. 13, 14, 15, 1802,.
1805, 6. 4to.
Nouv. Memoires de L'Acad. Roy. des Sciences et Belles Lettres,
Ann6es, 17&9, 1800, I. Berlin, 4to.
Memorias de la Real Acad, de la Hist. Tom. 4. 1805, Madrid, 4to.
Junta publica de la R. Soc. Econ. de Valencia, 1801, 4to.
Verhandelingen van de Hollandsche Maatschappy der weetenscfaappen
te Haarlem. 1—30 Vol. in 42 parts, 1754 — 1793, 8vo.
Natuurkundige verhandelingen &c. te Haarlem, 1 vol. in 2 pts.
Amsterdam, 1799 — 1801, 8vo.
— — Werktuig en wiskundige Verhandelingen etc. te Haarlem, Am-
sterdam, 1802, 8vo.
Kongl. vetenskaps Academiens Nya Handlingar vol. 1 — 25^ and 1st
trimestre, 1805. 1780*— 1805, Stockholm, 8vo.
Der GesellscKaft in Uern Sammlungen von Landwkthschaftlichen
Dingen, 2 vol. 1760, 2 vol. 1761, Zurich, 8vo.
Abhandlungen der CEconomischen Gesellschaft zu Bern, 17 vol.
1762—1773, Bern, 8vo.
Neueste Sammlung, &c. &c. Bern. vol. 1, 1796, 8vo.
Neue Sammlung Physisch— oeconomischer schriften, Bern,
1779, 1782-5. 3 vol. Zurich, 8Vo.
Memoires de PInstw Nat des Sci. et des Arts. Tom. 5, fen 3 parties
Paris, L'an 12. — Tom. 6 Sci. Mat. et Phys. 1806. — Pour les
ann6es 1806-7. Sci. Mat. et Phys. 4to.
M6moires presents a l'lnst. par des S^avans Etrangers. Tom.
1. Paris, 1805, 4to.
Base du Systeme M6trique Decimal par Mechain et Delambre.
2 vol. Paris, 1806-7, 4to.
Notice des travau x de la Soc. des Amateurs des Sciences Physiques
Ire. annge Paris, 1807, 8vo.
b
Digitized by
Google
XXVI DONATIONS FOR THfi LIBRARY.
The Roy. Acad, of Sci. of Lisbon, by the Chev. Cypriano Ribeiro
Freire. The following works, printed by order of the Acad.
Mem. da Acad. R.— T. 1. 1780—1788, 1797.— T. 2. 1799, fol.
, DeLitteratura Portuguesa. Tom. 3 to 7, 1792, 1806, 4to.
— — De Agric. premiadas pele Acad. Tom. 1, 2. 1787-90, 8vo.
~p Para a Historia da Capitania de S. Paulo, Brasil. Por Fr. Gaspar.
1797, 4to.
-Sobre a cultura das Oliveiras em Port. Por J. A. Dallabella,
1786, 4to.
Diccionario da lingoa Portuguesa Tom. lro A. 1793, fol.
Catalogo dos livros de ler para continuagam do Dice. 1799, 4to.
Collegam de livros ineditos de Historia Portuguesa por J. C. da Serra
Tom. 1, 1790. 2d, 1792. 3d, 1793.
Observa^oens sobsce as causas da decadencia dos Portug. na Asia,
escritas por D. do Coutro-Curante a C. do Amaral, 1790, 8vo.
Documentos Arabicos de Historia Portuguesa copiados dos originaes
da Torre do Tombo, por J. de Sousa, 1790, 4to.
Observ. Historicas e criticas da diplomatica Portuguesa, Ira part.
por J. P. Ribeiro, 1798, 4to.
Collec^am dos principaes Historiadores Portug. por F. B. de Brito,
1806, 4 Tom. 8vo.
Vida do Infante Dom Duarte, por A. de Rezende, 1789, 8vo.
Flora Cochinchinensis, labore J. de Loureiro, 1790 2 vol. 4to.
Dominici Vandelli vidriarium Grisley Lusitanicum Linn. nom. illus-r
trat. 1789, 8vo. ' '
Ord. Inst. Juris Crim. Lusitani— .Par J. M. Freirii. 1794, 4to.
Fontes proximas do Codigo Filippino por J. J. Ferreira Gordo,
1792, 4to.
Indice Chronologico — dalegislagam Portuguesa posterior a publica-
5am do Codigo Filippino, por J. P. Ribeiro. 2 vol. 1805, 4to.
Tratado da educacjam fysica dos meninos. Por F. de Mello Franco,
1790, 4to.
Ephem. Nauticas, 1789, 1790, 1, 2, 4, 5. Por G. de Villas Boas,
1796, 7, 8. J. M. Dantas Pereira, 4to.
Supplem. Tab. Logarith. et Trigon. Curante Ant. Felkel, por J. H.
Lambert, 1798, 4to.
Taboas Logarith. calculadas ate a setima casa decimal, por J. M.
D. Pereira, 1784, 4to.
Tratado de agrimensura, por Estevam Cabral, 1795, 12mo.
Introducgam ao methodo das' Fluxoes, por J. F. de B. G. Stockier.
1794, 8vo.
Breves instruc^oens para formar hum museo nacional 1781, 4to.
Advertencias sobre 6 legitimo uso das agoas mineraes das Caldas d^
Rainha, porF. Tavares, 1791, 4tp.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY* XXVll
0
A chemical analysis of the waters of Rainha (with a Portugl Transl.)
. by Wm. Withering, M. D. 1795, 4to.
Compila§am a cerca das causas e remedios dos doengos dos exerci-
tos. 1797, 12mo.
Advertencias dos meios para presevarse da peste, 1801, 2d Ed. 12mo.
Avisos interes. sobre as mortes apparentes — recopilados^ 1790, 12mo.
Principios de tactica naval, por Man. de Santo Limpio,'1787, 12mo.
Obras Poeticasde F. D. Gomez; 1799, 4to.
Osmia Trag. de assumpto Port, coroado pele Acad. 1788, 1795, 4to.
Hippolyto de Euripides vertido do Griego em Portuguez, 1803, 4to.
Poezias de P. de.Andrade Caminha, 1791, 8vo.
Transr. of the Roy. Soc. 1801, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, P. 1, 1807, Lond. 4to.
Trans, of the Linnean Society, vol. 7, 1804. vol. 8, 1807, Lond. 4to.
Archaelogia, or Trans, of the Soc. of Antiq. 15 vol. Lond. 4to.
with a fac simile of the_ Greek Inscription on the Stone dis-
covered in Egypt by Col. Turner, and 8 other Engravings.
Journal of the Royal Inst, of G. Brit. vol.!,. and 2 No. vol. 2, 1803.
Trans. Bath and West of England Soc. 9 vol. 1783 — 99, Bath, 8vo.
Trans. Lit. and Philos. Soc. of Manchester, vol. 1, 2d ser. 1805, 8vo.
Medical Soc. of Lond. A Catalogue of their Library, 1803, 8vo.
Trans. Royal Irish Academy, vol. 2 — 9, Dublin, 1783-1803,"ittx /
Trans. Dublin Society, 5 vol, 1800-6, 8vo.
Catal. of the plants cultivated in their Bot. Garden, 1804*
Syllab. of Lect. in Chem. Bot. &c. read in the Soc. 1802.
Asiatic Researches, vol. 1 — 9, Calcutta, 1788 to 1807, Royal 4to.
Transactions of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, vol 2,
part 2, Boston, 1805, 4to.
Trans. Historical Society Massachusetts, vol. 9, 1804, Boston, 8vo.
Massachusetts Agricultural Society, 1804, Boston, 8vo.
Pharmacopoeia of the Mass. Medical Society, Boston, 1808, 8vo,
Communications to the Society r vol. 1, Boston, 1808, 8vo.
Havard College, Cambridge, Mass. Professor Webber's eulogy on
President, Rev. Joseph Willard.
Transactions of the Society for promoting Agriculture and Useful
Arts, vol. 1, 2d Edition, 1801, vol. 2, 1807, New- York, 8vo.
Pennsylvania Hospital, a Catalogue of their Library, Phil. 1806, 8vo.
, Philadelphia pity Library Comf>aiiy, idem. 1807, 8va
Batavian Republic; By the Council of the Interior.
The Flora Batava. Drawings by Sepp & Sfcn; Descriptions by
J. Kops, 17 to 22, Amsterdam, 1806.
Digitized by
Google
XXViil DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
FROM INDIVIDUALS.
Abercrombie (Rev. James D. D.) A collection of his publications.
Alden (Timothy) His account of the Religk&s Societies at Ports-
mouth N. H. Boston, 1803, 8vo.
Allison (Rev. Burgess D. D.) Retrospect of Philosophical &c. Dis-
coveries 1 vol. Lond. 1806.
Anderson (A.) A general History of Quadrupeds, the figures engraved
by himself in wood, N. Y. 1804. 8vo.
Anonymous, On the utility of Inland Navigation in America. The
author, 8vo.
Barlow (Joel) His Columbiad, a Poem, Philad. 1807. 4to.
Baron (George) True principles of common Navigation, New- York
1803. 12mo.
A Treatise on Spherical Trigonometry by John Howard, New*
Castle, 1798, 8vo.
Barton (B. S.— M. D.) Travels in N. A. by J. Carver, Phil. 1796, 8vo.
His Facts and Observations relative to the Generation of the
Opossum of N. A. Philad. 1806, 8vo.
— — Discourse oil the principal desiderata of Natural History, deli-
vered before the Linnaean Society— -Philad. 1807, 8vo.
■ His account of the Siren Lacertina, in a letter to J. G. Schneider.
Philad. 1808, 8vo.
Ramsay (David M. D.) Oration on the cession of Louisiana-—
Charleston, 1804, 12mo.
Barton (William A. M.) The Constitutionalist, 8vo.
Bradford (Thomas & W.) Collection of Medical Theses, selected by
Charles Caldwell M. D. 1 vol. Philad. 1805, II vol. 1806.
Bradford (S. F.) M6moire sur les arbres forestiers de L'Am. Sep.
par F. A. Michaux, Paris, 8vo.
Beauvois (Palisot) Flore d'Oware et de Benin, Ire Livraison, Paris
L'an 12, 4to.
Beaujour (Felix De) His Tableau duCommerce de la Grece, 1787,
and 1797, Paris 2 vol. 8vo.
Betton (Samuel Junr. M. D.) A dictionary of the Malay tongue (and
English,) preceded by a Grammar, by James Howison M. D.
Lond. 1801, 4to.
Persian Lyrics, from the Diwan — i — Hafiz, with English
Translations, by J. H. Hindlcy, London, 1800, 4to.
*Biot, Observations sur les variations du magnetismc terrestre, par
Mess. Humbold & Biot, Paris* 1805.
Digitized by
Google
fiOKATIOtfS FOR THE LIMtAftY. *X«
Bioren (I. & T. L. Plowman) The history of the Wars arising out of
the French Revol. by A. Stephens, 2 vol. Philad. ed. 8vo.
Blodget (Samuel) His Economica or Statistical Manual of the United
States, Washington, 1806, 8vo.
Bronson (E.) His edition of the Life of Leo X, by William Roscoe,
4 vol. Philad. 1806, 8 vo.-
Bowditch (Nathaniel) His New American Practical Navigator, New-
bury Port, 1797, 2 vol. 8vo.
— — His observations on the Comet, Boston, 1807, 4to.
Brunnmark (Gustavus M. A.) His short Introduction to Swedish
and English Grammar, Lond. 1805 12mo.
Callet (Francis) His Tables of Logarithms, Stereotype edition, by
Firmin Didot, Paris, 1809, 8vo.
Chapman (Nathaniel M. D.) His collection of Select Speeches foren-
sic and parliamentary, 5 vol. 8vo.
Christian (A. — M. D.) His "Mfcthode Iatroliptice; remedes externes
pour les maladies internes." Montpellier,* 1804, 8vo.
Cointeraux — TraitS sur les arts reunis de Cultures et de Batisses
en Pis 6. Paris, 8vo.
Collin (Rev. N.« — D. D.) Catechism of Luther in Swedish, with a
Translation into the Virginian American language, Stockholm,
1697, 12mo.
Collins (Z.) Travels in Egypt, by C. S. Sonnini, Lond. 1800, 4to.
■ Embassy from G. Britain to Chiya, by Sir George Staunton,
2 vol. Philad. 1799, 8vo.
Conrad (John & Co.) Modern Geography, by John Pinkerton. The
article America augmented by. Dr. B. S. Barton, Philad.
edition, 2 vol. and atlas, 1804, 8vo.
■ Volney's view of the Soil and Climate of the U. S. of America.
Translated by C. B. Brown, Philad. 1804, 8vo.
Cossigny (I. F. C.) His Observations sur " Tart de faire des vins, de
M. Chaptal," Paris, 1807, 8vo,
His Recherches Chimiques &c. sur la fabrication de la poudre a
N Canon, Paris, 1807, 8vo.
Cottineau (D. L.) His Geographical compilations for the use of
schools, 2 vol. Baltimore, 1806, 12mo.
Cloud (J.) Metallurgic Chemistry by C. E. Gellert, Lond. 1809, 8vo.
Coxe {J. R. — M^D.) Philadelphia Medical Musasum, conducted by
him, vol. 1—5 — 1805 — 8, 8vo.
■- His American Dispensatory, Philad. 1806, 8vo.
. — ^His Philadelphia Medical Dictionary, 1808, 8vo.
Cunningham (Mat. — M. D.) A Grammar and Vocabulary of the
corrupt dialect of Hindostan ; by G. Hadley, Lond. 1796, 8vo*
Digitized by
Google
XXX DpNATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Dearborn (Benjamin) No. 1, vol. 1, and Constitution of N. England
association of Inventions, Boston, 1807. % ' . *
Decandolle (A. P. — M. D.) Essai sur les proprietes medicales des
plantes, comparSes avec leurs formes ext€rieures, Paris, 1804, 4to.
Delambre (M.) Base du systeme mgtrique decimal, par M, M.
Delambre & Mechain r&dige par le premier, Paris, 1806, 2 vol.
1807, 4to.
Dewees ( W. P. — M. D.) Joannis Swammerdami Historiainsectaruni.
Fol Leyden, 1737, (vol. 1. p. 1.)
Dobell — vide Wistar.
Dobson (Thomas) Supplement to his edition of the Encyclopedia,
3 vol. Philad. 1803? 4to.
Dpunous (J. J. Combes) His Translation from the Greek bf the
Dissertations de Maxime de Tyr, Philos. Platonicien. Paris,
1802, 2 vol. 8vo.
Dufief (N. G.) Collcccion de 'las obras de Elocuencia y de poesia
premiadas por la Real Acad. Espanola, Madrid, 1799, 12 mo.
His nature displayed in her mode of teaching language to man,
adapted to the French, vol. 1, 2, Philadelphia, 1804, 8vo.
Dupont(de Nemours) His memoires sur differents sujets d'histoire
naturelle &c. Paris, 1807, 8vo.
DuPonceau (Peter S.) Plan de Paris grave en 20 planches par ordre
des Echevins de Paris, exhibiting an elevation of all the build-
ings, Paris, 1739, fol.
Travels in Egypt and "Nubia, by Frederick L. Norden, 2 vol,
fol. in one, London, 1757.
Ebelings (C. D.) His Erdbeschreibung und Geschichte von Ame-
rica, Tom. VI, Penn. Hamburgh 1803, 8vo.
Echard (T. I.) A Chinese almanac & a Chinese map of that Empire.
Elliot (Rev. John) Discourse of Dr. Lathrop before die Society for
propagating the Gospel, Boston, 1$04, 8vo.
Discourse of T. Thatcher on the death of S. Adams, Bost. 1804.
Evans (Oliver) His Young Miller and Wheelwright's Guide, Philad.
1797, 8vo.
Ewell (James M. D.) His Planter's and Mariner's medical companion.,
Philad.^ 1807, 8vo.
Fayette (M. de la) Projet d'Elements d'Ideologie par Destut Tracy,
' vol. 1, 1801, vol. 2, Grammaire, 1802, Paris, 8vo.
Filicchj (A.) Observazioni sulla malattia febrile dominante in Livorno
Del Dr. Gaetano Palloni, 1804, 8vo.
—— Collezione di ordini per la deputazione di Sanita in JLivorno,
1804, 4to.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. xtfxi
Fessenden (T. G.) His Register of Arts, Phitad. 1808, 8vo.
Foronda (Le Chev. Don Valentin de) His Coleccion de maximas
&c. para los Intendentes &c. 8vo.
Cartas presentadas a la Soc. Philos. de Philad.— assuntos.
Fievre amarilla — el Guaco — Hospitales — Enfermedades de Nu-
eva-York y de Philadelphia— ^Lengua Inglesay Castellana,
1807, 8vo.
Fothergill (Anthony M. D.) His Cautions respecting the poison of
leaden and copper vessels, Bath, 1790, 8vo.
A sermon on premature interments, by Rev. S. Cirle,Lond. 1804.
Reports of London Humane Society, 1804, 5, 7, 8. '
—Account of London Jennerian Society, and of the Society for
superceding the use of chimney-sweepers.
: Valpey's (Dr.) Reply to the ©ritish Critic, London, 1804.
Hobesii vita auctore seipso, London, 1679.
Sermon containing a sketch of the life of the Bishop of St.
Asaph : by R. Dickinson, 4 edition, London, 1806, 8vo.
Case of Joseph Lockyer, struck with lightning, living on water
only, by Thomas Creaser, Bath, 1806.
Garnett (John) His edition of Nautical Almanacs, from 1803 to 1807,
Brunswick N. Jersey, 8vo.
Graves (BartholQmew) Hist, revfew of Ireland from Henry II, to the
jinion with G. Britain in 1801, by F, Plowden, 5 voh Philad.
edition, 1805, 8vo.
Gregoire (L'ancien Ev6que &c. Paris) His Essai hist, sur Petat de
Pagriculture au 16me Siecle en France, L'an 12, 8vo<
His observations critiques sur la Colombiade, 1809, 8vo.
De la literature des negres, 1808.
Rapports de J. D« Lanjuinais sur plusieurs ouvrages interes-
sants, Paris, 8vo.
M6moires et rapports de PInstitut, Paris, 4to.
le PEveque sur les marges dans les ports de France, 1803.
Camus sur la pinte, mesure de Paris.
Ameilhon sur Proscription Grecque trouvee a Rosette, 1803.
Sur ie sy steme de Craniologie de Gall. 1808.
D'un voyage au bas Rhin par A. G. Camus, L'an XL
Notice des travaux de la Qiasse des beaux arts, 18^7.
Prix proposes par PInstitut.
Sur PElection au Scrutin, par C. F. Daunou, Paris, 1803.
Industrie ou les Arts ; Ode, par M. Chaussard, 3d ed. Paris,
1806, 4to.
Connoissance des temps, pour les annSes 1808, 9, 8yo.
Gernon (Patrick) Tableau du Rc^ne vegetal d'apres Jussieu* par E«
P, Yentenat, 4 vol. Paris, L'an 7, 8vo,
Digitized by
Google
XXXti DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Gilpin (Joshua) Brathwaite on the use of the ox. mur. acid in the
scarlet fever, London, 1804, 8vo.
Reports and proceedings &c. of the Delaware and Chesapeak
canal company, 8vo.
Hamilton (William) Samtliche Papierversuche; nebst mustern und
Kupfertafeln, von J. C.'Schaffers, Regensburg, 1772, 4to.
Hamilton (Talbot) English translation of the Geometry of Peter
Ramus, Hanover, 1612, 8vo*
Lexicon Technician or Dictionary of Arts &c. by John Harris,
London, 1704, fol.
Alstedii Encyc. voL 1, 4, Herborn. 1630, fol.
Mathematical magic3 London, 1648, 8vo.
Elements of Astronomy by David Gregory, M. D. London,
1726, 2 vol. 8vo.
Theory of the construction and properties of Vessels by Leo-
nard Euler, translated by H. Watson, London, 1790, 8vo.
Hassler (F. R.) A Geographical and Mineralogical map of the Gla-
ciers, Swisserland, by Gruner. Fourteen detailed maps of the i
Swiss Cantons, by Walser and others; also, Carte de la Suisse,
from the plans of Gen. Pfyffer. German.
Von der Regiment der lobiiches (Helvetisches) Eydgenosschaflt;
von Josia Simlero, Zurich, 1722,,4to.
Hay garth (John M. D.) Plan to exterminate casual small-pox from
England, 2 vol. 1793, 8vo.
Hawes (William) Treasurer of the London Royal Humane Society,
An account of Dr. Goldsmith's last illness. — Warren on Cow-
Pox. — Account of Margate Infirmary. — Of the Literary Fund
Society. — Of the Receiving House, Hyde Park. — Sermons of
- Dr. Barry and Dr., Glass before the Royal Humane Society.
Hillegas (Michael) Het nieuw Neder-Hoog-Duitsch en Hcog-nedec.
Duitsch Woordenboek, door Mat. Kramern, Leipzig, 1759, 8vo.
Hoppe (E.) Explanation of his improved Sextant and Azimuth
Compass, London, 1804, 12mo.
Hunter (William A. M.) Secretary to the Asiatic Society. — His
Diseases of the Lascars in Long Voyages, Calcutta, 1804, foL
Humphreys (David) His Miscel. Works, JNew-York, 1804, 8vo.
Valed. Oration before the Cincin. of Connect. Bost. 1804, 8vo.
Humphreys (James) His Philad. Editions of the following works.
Travels in Turkey, Egypt, &c. by Wm. Wittman, M. D. 1804.
Hist. Civil and Com. of the British W. Indies, by Bryan Ed-
wards.— Account of the Bahamas, by Dr. M'Kinner, 4 vok
and Atlas, 1806, 8vo.
- Conversations on Chemistry, 2 volumes in 1, 1806, 12mo~
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. XXXiU
*
Humphreys (James) Chemical Catechism, by S. Parkes, 1807, 8vo..
Medical uses of hot and cold water, by James Currie, M. D.
1808, 8vo.
James (T. C. — M. D.) A collection of early Philad. Almanacs, 172t
and 1748, edited by Benjamin Franklin and others.
Thesaurus medicus ; dissertationes delectae de Gul. Smellio, 2
vol. Edihb. 1778, 9, 8vo.
Pearson on Vaccination, translated into Chinese by Sir George
„ Staunton, Canton, 8vo.
Jefferson (Thomas, President of the Society) Abstracts of public
Documents relative to Louisiana ; with an appendix.
Relative to the late discoveries in exploring the Missouri, Red,
and Washita rivers, Washington, 1806, 8vo.
Description of the Sonde de Mer, ou Bathometre, par A. Vao.
S. Luis«jius. La Haye, 1805, 4to. Accompanied by a model.
Traitg des moyens de d6sinfecter Pair de pr6venir la conta-
gion & d'en arrgterte progres. par L. B. Guyton Morveau,
Paris, 1805, 8vo.
■Trait6 sur les Betes- i-laine d'Espagne, par C. P. Lasteyrie,
Paris, 1807, 8vo.
— — Histoire de leur introduction dans les divers Etats d'Europe, et
au Cap de Bonne Esperance; Par le me me, Paris, 1802, 8vo.
Du Cottonter et de sa culture, Paris, 1808, 8vo.
". k-Sur les plantations des cannes-sl-sucre en France, par Cossigny.
His Notes on the State of Virginia, 1802, 8vo.
Jones (Capt. William) Five books 6f Chinese Paintings, in water
colours, 4to.
—Miscellaneous pieces relative to Asia, by Sir William Jones and
others, Lond. 1792, 2 vol. 8vo.
Kunze (John C.) His Tables of a new construction for calculating
the solar eclipse of June 1806, New-York/1806, 8vo.
Kimber Conrad & Co. Their edition of Accum's mineralogy, Phil,
1809, 12mo.
Lafon (Barth.) His Map of the Louisiana Territory, 1807.
Lang (John). Catalogue of the Library of the writers of the Signet ;
sent to him by W. Patterson, Edinb. 1808, 4to.
Lasteyrie (C. P.) Transl. of TEssai pour diriger les recherches des
voyageurs, par le Comte de Berchtold, Paris, 1797, 8vo.
His Trait6 sur les Betes-a-laine fine d'Espagne, Paris, 1799, 8vo.
Histoire de leur introduction dans les divers Etats d'Eu-
rope &c. Paris, 1802, 8vo.
Pu Cottonier et de sa culture, Paris, 1808, 8vo.
Histoire de l'Acad. R. des Sci. Ann6e 1^06, Paris, 1787, 4to.
c
Digitized by
Google
XXXIV. -DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Lownes (Caleb) £anoptikon or the Inspection Prison-house, by J.
Bentham, 2 vol. Lond. 1791. 12mo.
Comparative view of the Penitentiary, and of the Transportation
System, by the same, Lond. 1802, 8vo.
M'Mahon (Bernard) His American . Gardiner's Calender Philad.
1806, 8vo.
M'llhenny (W. Junr.) Testamen Caharreco eta Berrico Historioa,
Translated from the French of Larregy by Royaumontec, Bay-
onan, 1777, 2 vol. 12mo.
M'Nevin (W. J.— ML D.) His Ramble through SwisserlaAd, Dub-
lin, 1803, 8vo.
Cours destruction d'un sourd-muet de naissance, par R.
A. Sicard, 2d ed. Paris, 1803.
Maclure (William) Voyage dans L'Egypte pendant les Campagnes
de Bonaparte, par Vivant Denon, 2 vol. Imperial folio edition of
Didot, Paris.
Journal de Physique, 63 vol. 4 No. of 64tht from the commence-
ment to April 1807, to be continued by him.
Mathematical Correspondent, vol. 1, New- York, 1804, 8vo — The
Proprietors. ^ *
Maxwell (Hugh) Vol. 1, 2, of the works of the late William Smith*
D.D. Philad. 1803, 8vo.
Mease (Mrs.) Choix des mgmoires de Pacad. Roy. des Inscriptions
K & Belles Lettres, 3 vol. Lond. 1777, 4to.
Me&se (James M. D.) French Memorial in reply to the English, rela-
. tive to the war of 1755, including G. Washington^ Journal!
Philad. 1757, 8vo.
La BibliotecaLettera; de Giovanni Fabbroni, Modena, 1803. fol.
Meade (R. W. of Cadiz) Sobre las variedades del Vid Comun en
Espagne, por Don S. Roxas Clemente y Rubio, Madrid,
1807, 4to.
Meredith {William) Present State of Nova Scotia, and a short ac-
count of Canada &c. Edinburg, 1787, 2d ed. 8vo.
Michaux (F. A.) His voyage & POuest de PAilegheney &c. United
• States, Paris, 1808, 8vo.
Miller (Rev. S. — D. D.) His Brief Retrospect of the 18th century,
New- York, 1803, 2 vol. 8vo.
Mirbel (C. F. Brisseau) Son Traitg d'anatomie et de physiologic
des plantes, 2 vol. Paris Pan. 10, 8vo.
■ ■ Exposition de la Theorie de Porganisation Vegetale, 2d ed.
Paris, 1809, 8vo.
Moore (Dr. S.) Atlas antiquus Danvillianus Norimbergae, 1804. fol.
Mosely (Benjamin M. D.) His Treatise on Tropical diseases, 4th;
ed. Lond. 1803, 8vo.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR- THE LIBRARY.* XXXV
Nichols (Francis) His Edition of Elements of Geonietry, containing
the 6 first books of Euclid, by John Playfair, Philad. 1806, 8vo.
Patterson (Robert) Le grand Porte-feuUle Politique en 19 Ta-
bleaux, par M. Beaufort, Paris, 1789, fol.
Peak (Rembrandt) Memoire surle Mineral Arragonite, par L' Abbe
Hauy, Paris, 4to.
Manuel Typographique de Fournier le Jeune, Paris, 1764,
2 vol. 12mo.
Pedersen (P. — Charge d' Affaires de S. M. Danoise) Tableau des
Etats Danois, par J. P. Catteau, 3 vol. 8vo, and a map sepa-
rately bound, Paris, 1801.
Pictet (Marc, Aug.) Bibliotheque Britannique, of which he is Editor,
No. 303 a 306—311 a 320, Geneva, 1808, 9.
Plowman, vide Bioren.
Poyntell & Co. (William) Their Edition of the Life and Correspon-
dence of Sir Wm. Jones, by Lord Teignmouth, Phil. 1805, 8vo.
Price (Jonathan) and Strother (John) Their Map of North Carolina,
. from actual survey, 1808.
Regnaud (A.) Le Voyage dans l'Egypte, par Vivant Denon, 2 vol.
& vol. Planches, Lond. 1802, 4to,
*Richetson (Shadrach, M. D.) Transactions of the Society of Agri-
culture, Arts, &c. part 2d, New- York, 1794, 4to.
Rivardi (Major) A Vocabulary in eight languages, 12mo.
Rogers (Wm. — D. D.) Primitiae Orientales, vol. 2, 3, Fort William
College, 1803, 4. — An Account of the Institution. — Some of
the Theses in the Oriental Languages, with transl. — Gosjpel of
S. Matthew in the Mahratta language. — Bengalee Hymn Book.
— Catechism, and several short religious Tracts in Bengalee.
Rose (Robert,. M. D.) Guida perle antichit* de Pozzuoli, di G.
D'Ancora, Napoli, 1792, 8vo.
Rosseter (Captain John) Tables of Logarithms, by Michael Taylor,
London, 1792, fol.
. Instructions concerning Arnold's Time-keepers. — Seaman's Va-
de mecum, by R. Liddel, London, 1764, 8vo.
Roxborough (William, M. D.) Grammar of the Sungskrit language
by Rev. Wm. Carey, Serampore, Missionary Press, 1806, 4to.
Rush (Benjamin, M. D.) His Medical Inquiries and Observations,
2d edition, Philad. 1805, 4 vol. 8vo.
St. George (Henry) Statistical Observations relative to the County of
Kilkenny, Ireland, in 1800, i, Dublin, 1802, 8vo.
Short (William) Memoires Hist, et Pol. du regne de Louis XVI,
par J. L. Soulavie, 6. vol. Paris, 1801, 8vo.
Digitized by
Google
t \
\
iXXVl BO NATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Short (William) Recueil des pieces trouvees dans l'armoire de fer,
3 vol. Paris, 1798, 8vo.
De la Balance du Commerce; et du Commerce Interieurde
' France, par M. Arnould, Paris, 1791, 2 vol. 8vo, Atlas 4to.
— — Systeme Maritime et Politique des Europeens, pendant le 18nu
Siecle; par le meme, 1797, 8 vo.
■ ■ Traite d'Economie politique et de Commerce des Colonies, pax*
P. F. Page, 2 vol. Paris, 1802, 8vo.
Etats Unis de PAmerique a la fin du lStaie Siecle, par J. E. Bon-
net, Paris, 2 vol. 8vo.
Relation abrfegee du Voy. de la Condamine fek dans PAmerique
m Merid. Maestricht, 1778, 8vo.
Etats des Finances de St. Domingue, par B. <ie Marbois, Parisj
1790, 1 & 2 partie. 4to.
——Observations & lui personelles, pour y etre joint, par le meme.
Memoire du meme sur une denonciation des Deputes de St.'
Domingue.
■ i Tableau Statistique de L'Europe, par Beaufort, in 4 sheets
first wanting.
Smith (Jonathan B.) Statistical Essays, by Stepheu Hales, London,
1733, 3 vol. 8vo.
An Essay on the investigation of the first principles of nature.
By Felix O'Gallagher, London, 1786, 2 vol. 8vo.
— — Andreas Argoli Ephemerides ab anno 1641 ad 1700, Lugduni,
1659, » vol. 4to.
Spalding (Lyman, M. B.) Bills of mortality for Portsmouth, New-
Hampshire, 1804 to 1808.
Stockier (F.de B.G.) Obras de, Vol 1, 1805, Lisboa, 8vo. — Reponse
aux objections a sa methode des limites des Fluxions, 1800, 8vo.
Stretch (Thomas) Scarce Tracts of Eminent Persons, London, 176S
— 1770, 4 vol. 8vo.
Alcoran of Mahomet, from the French Translation of Du Ryer#
London, 1649, 4to.
——Assertion of the Seven Sacraments against Martin Luther, bf
Henry, King of England, 1688, 8vo.
Commentaries on the Laws of England, by Sir Wm. Rbckstone*
Oxford, 1766, 4 vol. 4to.
Tardieu (P. F.) His Carte des Etats Urns, in 4 sheets,- also die
same reduced, 1808.
Carte des Indes Occidentales et Golfe de Mexique, Paris, 1808.
Tuppiiti (Dominique) His Reflexions sur Petat de l* Agriculture &c*
dans la Royaume de Naples, Paris 1807, 2d edition.
Tussac (F. R. de)His Flore des Antilles avec planches dessinges, gnu
vfces et coloriees par lui meme, Tom* 1, Livr. Ire, Paris, 180&
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. / XXXTli
Valentin (Louts, M. D.) His Traitfc de la ficvre jaunc d'Amerique>
Paris, 1802, 8vo.
Vaughan (William^ Narrative of his sufferings among the Malays,
by Capt Woodward fan American) London, 1804, 8vo.
Trans, of the Horticultural Society Lon. vol 1, p. 1, 1807, 4to.
Vaughan (John) Atlas Homanianus Germanise Spec. Noremb. I 753.
New and complete System of Geography, by John Payne, New-
York edition, 1800, 4 vol. 8vo.
Census of Spain, taken by order of Government, in 1803.
— — Recherches Physiques sur le feu, par Marat, Paris, 1786, 8vo»
— — Lettres Physiques et Morales &c. par A. De Luc, 5 vol. 8vOb
Lettres sur la Suisse & sur le climat d'Hieres idem, Paris,
1778, 8vo.
-Hints to Gentlemen of landed property; by Nathaniel Kent,
London, 1779, «vo.
— — Husbandry and Trade improved) bv L Houghton, London,
1787, 4 vol. 8vo\
——Complete herbal of Physical plants, by John Peckey, Londop,
1707, 2d edition, 12mo.
——Botanical Harmony delineated by J. B. de Saint Pierre; transla-
ted by Henry Hunter, Worcester, Am. 1797, 8vo. .
— — Hier6glyphica Animatium terrestrium fee. qu» in Scriptoria
Sacns inveniwtur, Auct. Arch. Simpson, Edin. 1612, 4to.
— — Palladio's Architecture, translated by Ware, London, fol.
— — -Phraseologk Anglo-Germanka, Strasburg, 1798, 8vo.
- Letters to Joseph Priestley by the Rev. D. Madan, Lon. 1787.
Reptirfo of the London Humane Society, 1799, 1800, 5, 6.
Review of the Constitutions of Europe and United States of
America, by De la Croix, London, 1792, 2 vol. 8va
-—Nat Hist, of E. and W. Florida, by Bernard Romans, vol. 1,
New- York, 1775, 8vo.
Hist of New- Jersey* by Samuel Smith, Burlington, 1765, 8vor
—Travels through Canada, by Pere Charlevoix, Lon. 1763, 8vo. ,
Hist of Louisiana, by Le Page du Pratz, Lon. 1774 j 8vo.Transl.
""'■ New Voyages to North America, by Baron La Hontan, Lond.
1783, 2 vol. Bvo. (Translation.)
——Map of Pennsylvania, by Nicholas Scull, Philad. 1759.
Hist, of America, by Wm.« Robertson, Lon. 1803, 4 vol. 8vo.
■ The British Empire in America— Islands- and Continent, Lon^
don, 2d edition, 1741, 2 voL #vo.
Hist, of the British Empire in America, by Mr. Wynne,
London, 1770, 2 vol. 8vo.
-Lettres d'un Cultivateur Americauv par St. JeandeCrevec6ew>
Paris, 1787, 3 vol. 8vo*
Digitized by
Google
XXXVlll DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
Vaughan (John) The Remembrancer or Impartial Repository of Pub-
lic Events, connected with the differences between Great Britain
and America, London, 1775 a 1782, 13 vol. 8vo.
Interesting authentic .papers relative to Great Britain and Ame-
rica, 1764 a 1775> 8vo. -
Histoiredes Incas Rois du Perou, par G. de la Vega, traduit par
Jean Baudoin, Amsterdam, 1715, 2 vol. 12mo.
American Annals or Chronological History of America, by Abiel
Holmes, D. D. Cambridge, 1805, 2 vol. 8vo.
Pamphlets relative to the United States, Lpn. 1775 a 1786, fivco.
Idem Lon. & Am. 1806, 2,8.
— — Journal of a Corps of Disoovery to the Pacific Ocean, by ordu: of
the Government of the U. S. under Captains Lewis & Clarke,
. in 1804, 5,6, by Patrick Gass, Pittsburg, 1807, 8vo. 1 _
The American Coast Pilot, by Captain L. Furlong, Newbury-
Port, 3d Edition, 1800, 8vo.
Vicary (Cant.) Gram. Lat.-Tamulica, Tranquebar, 1738, 8vp.
Translations of small Tracts into Bengalee.
Warden (Rev. D. B.) His Translations of the Kulogiums — of Pr*
Priestley, by G. Cuvier, Paris, 1807, 8vo. — Of Marcus Aureli-
us, by M. Thomas, Paris, 1808, 8vo.
— — Promotion des Sciences utiles &c. par C. Lippi, Paris, 1806.
12 Gravures des Vases Ceramographiques, vulgairement ap-
pelles Vases Etrusques; gravges, par A. Dener, decrites
par A. J. Millin, pubises par M. Dubois Maisonneuve,
Paris, 1808.
Wayne (C. P.) Life of Washington, by John Marshall, Philadelphia,
1804-7, 5 vol. 8vo.
Webber (Samuel, A. M.) Mathematicks, compiled by him for Ha-
vard College, Cambridge, Boston, 1801, 2 vol. 8vo.
Williams (Col. Jonathan) The Complete Farmer, Lond. 1793, fol.
— — Theory and Practice of Gardening, translated from the French,
by John James, London, 1712, 4to. — Essay on the Military-
constitution of Nations, 1808. — Extracts from the U. States
Military Philos. Society, 1806. — His Transl. of Kosciusko's
Horse- Artillery, for the use of the U. S. — N. York, 1808*
Wilson (Bfrd) The Works of his late Father, James Wilson, Judge
of the Supreme Court of the U. States, Phil. 1804, 3 vol. 8vo. .
Wistar (Caspar, M. D.) Received by him from Peter Dobell of Can-
ton; Vocabulario de la Lengua Talaga, por Fr. Domingo de los
Santos, Manilla, 1794, fol.
Compendio de la Arte de la Lengua Talaga, por Don F. Gas-
par, Manilla, 1703, 4to. , _ .
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY, XXXIX
Yrujo {Marquis de Ca.sa) Historia de la Conquista de Mexico, par
^ A. dc Solis, 2 vol. Madrid, 1784, 4to.
Historia Verdaderade la Conquistade la nueva Espana por Bernal '
Dias del Castillo, 1st, 2d, 4th vol. Madrid, 1795, 12mo.
— Compendio de la Historia Natural y Civil del Reyno de Chile
por Juan Ig. Molina, traducida por D. J. Mendoza, 2 voL
Madrid, 1st vdL 1788, 2d vol. 1795, 4to.
— — Reflexiones Sobre el Commercio de Espana con sus Colonias de
America en tiempo de Guerra, with an English Translation,
Philad. 1799, 8vo.
■ ■ Codigo de las Costumbres maritimas de Barcelona, vulgarmente
. Uamado libro del consulado, traducido por Don A.
de Capmany, con appendice, 2 vol. Madrid, 1791, 4to.
Historia del descubrimiento et de h. Conquista de las Indias
par los Portugueses, Anvers, 1554, 12mo, por H. L. de
Castaneda.
— Expedicion de los Catalanes y Aragoneses contra Turcos y
Griegos por el Conde de Osona, Madrid, 1777, 8vo.
■ * Alfabeto de Vapones famosos, por Juan de Sedeno. Medina del
Campo, 1551. foL
Breve description de la Fiebre amarHlaen Espana 1800, 1, 3,
4, Por J. M. de Arejula, Madrid, 1806, 4to.
■ , Cartas families dando noticia de un viage en Italia, 5 vol. Ma-
drid, 1791, 12mo. Idem, noticia de la literatura de Vienna,
1794, 12mo, por el Abate Don Juan Andrez.
— — Dictionnaire Flamand et Frangbis, par F. Halma, la Haye, 1791,
4th ed. 2 vol. 4to.
•^ — Origines de la Poesia Casteihna por L. L de Vdasqu£s, 2d ed.
Malaga, 1797, 8vo.
Colleccion de Poesias Casfceflalias anterioFes al Sigla XV, por
T. A. Saftdies, Madrid, 1779, 4 voK 8vo.
Jahel, Tragedia por Don J. L. de Sedano, Madrid, 1763, 12mo.
; Cartas7 philologic^s, 2d ed. 8vo.— Tablas Poeticas, por Fran*
, cisco Cascales, Madrid, 1779, 8vo.
- — ^Philosophia de Eloquencia por Don ;Ant. jOainpany Madrid,
1777, 8vo/ "'■'!.
La Poetica«de Ari6toteles traducida a lc^Lengua Castellana, por
Don Alonso Ordonnez, Ms$rid, 1778, 8yo.
Nueva Idea de la tragedia Antigu# rd'illust*acion de la. Poetic*
de Aristoteles, por J. A. Gonsales de Salas, Madrid, 1778^
2 vol. 8vo.
2ach (Francis Baron de) His Tabulae motuum Softs — supplenv ad
Tabulas, 1792— Gotha, 1804, 4tp.
Digitized by
Google
M DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY.
UNIVERSITY O* PENNSYLVANIA.
INAUGURAL DISSERTATIONS.
• For the degree of Doctor in Medicine, presented by the Authors,
or the Professors of that Institution. Philad. 8vo.
Arched (J. Md.) On the Carbonates of Lime, Magnesia & Pot. 1804.
Atlee (E. A. Pa.) On the mfluenee bf Musift fcft Diseases, 1804.
Barton (W. P. C. Pa.) On thfc Pftjfterties of Nit. Ox. Gas, 1808.
Bloodgood (Joseph, N. Y.) On Haemoptysis, 1806.
Brown (Rich. Va.) On the use of Physiognomy in medicine, 1807.
Brochenbrough (Austin, Va.) On two native L&torus, 1804.
Bryarly (Wakeman, Md.) On Lupulus com. or common Hop. 1805.
Burwell (Lewis, Va.) On Digitalis Purpurea Or Pox Glove, 1805.
Claiborne (D. J. Va.) On the Medical use of Artificial Drains, 1806.
Camp (John H. Va.) On the use of Mercury in Fevers, 1804.
Champneys (Benjamih, N. J.) On the Dysentery, 1805.
Cleave* (Isaac, Pa.) On Cataract, 1805.
Creager (Lewis, Md.) On the Dysentery, 1806.
Cocke (John, G?a.) On Jaundice, 1805.
Cocke (James, Va.)On Inflammation in Wounds, 1304.
Cocke (C. — Va.) Oh the Identity of Gout and Rheumatism, 1806.
Cooke (J. E— Va.) On the Inflam. Bilious Fever in 1804, in Va. 1805.
Cunningham (R. M. Penn.) On ditto at Lancaster 1805.
Daingerfield (Henry P. Va;) On Cutaneods Absorption, 1805.
Darlington (W. Pa.) On the mut. Influ. of Habits & Diseases, 1804.
Drayton (Charles, S. C.) On the Inversion of the Uterus, 1809.
De Butts (Elisha, Md.) On the Eye, and on Vision, 1805.
Dewees (W. P. Pa.) On lessening the Pains of Parturition, 1806.
Douglas (John, Va.) On Mercury, 1805.
Doyley (Daniel, S. C.) On the Vesiculae Seminales, 1806.
Dudley (B. W. Ky.) On the Med. Topog. of Lexington, 1806.
Evans (George, S. C.) On the~Rheumatic state of Fever, 1805. .
Ewell (Thomas, Va.) On the Stomach and Secretion, 1805.
Ffirth (Stubbins, N. J.) Oti non-Contagion in Fevers, 1804.
Floyd (John, Ky.) On the Med. prop, of the Magndlia, 1806.
Gray (H. M. Va.) On Cynanche Trachealis or Croup, 1805.
Green (E. A. — N. J.) On the structure of the Lurrtbricus Terr. 1806.
Gibbons (W. Pa.) On Hypochondriasis, 1805.
Griffith (Elijah, Pa.) On, Ophthalmia, 1804.
Hall (Richard W Md.) On Medical Electricity, 1806.
Hart (John, N. CA On Sensation and Motion, 1806.
Hartshorne (J. — Va.) On the effect of air, on living animals, 1805.
Hopkins (John, Va.) On Dysentery, 1804.
Digitized by
Google
DONATIONS FOR THE LIBRARY. xli
Howard (W. Va.) On the hydropic state offerer, 1805.
Jackson (Samuel, Pa.) On suspended animation, 1808.
Jenks (P.-N. Y.) On the analogy between plague & yellowfever, 1804.
Klapp (Joseph, N. Y.) On cutaneous absorption, 1805.
Legare (D. — S. C.) On the use of tobacco fumes in cases of suspend-
ed animation, 1805.
M'Call (E. L. — Ga.) On the mutual subserviency of different parts
of the body, 1806.
M'Farlane (J. H. Pa.) On angina pectoris, 1806.
Madison (James C. Va.) On the medical properties of iron, 1805.
Matthews (S. Va.) On the effect of music in diseases, 1806.
Miller (P. Pa.) On lessening the pains of parturition, 1804.
Miller (R. Va.) On the medical effects of cold, 1807.
Mitchell (G. E. — Md.) On the puerperal state of fever, 1805.
Massey (R. D. — Mass.) On cutaneous absorption, 1809.
Newcombe(D.- N.H.) On the theories of the cause of conception, 1806.
Parker (John, N. C.) On fractures of the leg, 1804.
Parrish (Joseph, Pa.) On the medical influence of the passions, 1805.
Pugh ( W. H.-N. C.) On the cure of dis. by the powers of nat. 1804.
Rees (J. T. — Md.) On the medical theories of Brown, Cullcn, Dar-
win and Rush, 1805.
Robertson (F. Ten.) On Chorea Sancti Viti, 1805.
Rush (John, Pa.) On the causes and prevention of sudden death, 1804.
Rush (James, Pa.) An inquiry into the use of the omentum, 1809.
Savin (R. L. — Md.) On the effect of external cold in fevers, 1805.
Shaw (W. Pa.) On the Philadelphia epidemic of 1803, 1804.
Selby (W. F.— Md.) On the analogy between plants &, animals, 1806.
Simmons (W. — S. C.) On contusions of the head, 1806.
Smith (T. St. Croix.) On wounds of tjie intestines, 1805.
Thornton (G. A. — Va.)Onthe progressive state of med.sci. 1807.
Tucker (S. — N. J.) On the effects of labour in chronic diseases, 1806«
Tucker (Wright Junr. Va.) On the medical effect of cold, 1806.
Wacker (Jacob D.) On hydrocephalus internus, 1806.
FOR THE CABINET.
From the Asiatic Society, The skeleton of an elephant.
FROM INDIVIDUALS.
Brown (Samuel, M. D.) Specimens of earth and saltpetre rock,
from a cave in Kentucky. — A cranium, tooth, and other bones
found in that cave. — Bones of the head of a new animals— Pure
native saltpetre, — Gold and silver ore from Mexico.
Barton ( Wm.) An engraved portrait of Leonard Euler.
d
Digitized by
Google
xiii DONATIONS FOR THE CABINBT.
Carey (Mathew) Materials from which he compiled the maps of his
edition of Guthrie's Geography. k '
Clifford (J. D*)y Minerals, chiefly from the Island of Elba,
Cloud (Joseph) Various minerals. — Zinc rolled under his direction.
Davis (Dr.) A Chinese compass.
Davy (John) Minerals and shells from Ava.
Dearborn (Benjamin) A machine to compute interest. h.%*%
Dewitt (Simeon) A painting by E. Ames of the solat eclipse, 1806,
when central near Albany.
Durouchail (P.) Model of Homer's head, from a bust found in Egypt
Proofs of engravings in wood, executed by him.
Ferrer (J. J.) Silver ores and other minerals from Mexico. j
Fothergill (Anthony, M. D.) Specimens of — Otaheitian cloth. — Bri-
tish paper of cheap materials. — Minerals and earths, collected in
the U. S. — Indian ornaments found near the Lehigh.
Gocton (S.) Minerals illustrating his Memoir, page 319, also, other
minerals collected m the United States, &c.
Haines (Engraver) Engraved portraits of Professors Rush & Barton.
Hamilton (Talbot) Model of a Life Buoy, of his inven. — Medallion of
Franklin cast in iron. — Mag. iron ore. — Various nat. pigments.
Hassler (F. R.) A model of the glaciers of Swisserland. — -Horns of
the Chamois. — Models of chrystals ; system of Rom6 de Lisle.
Hembell ( Wm.) Native sulphat of Magnesia, from Virginia.
Hewson (T. T.~ M. D.) Preparation of the eyes of a goose, exhi-
biting the membrane of aqueous humor.
Huiings (Wm. E.) Marine shells from the mountains of Pennsylv,
James (T. C. — M. D.) An engraved portrait of Richard Price, D. D. ^
Jefferson (Thomas, President of the Society) 150 Roman bronze
coins, from the reign of Augustus to that of Theodosius, a space
of 400 years, sent to him by Weenweck, Sec'y. to the R. S. of
Heraldry in Denmark, and by him to the Society.
A horned lizard in a dormant state from Upper Louisiana.
A Sonde, de Mer, invented by Luis^ius, Holland, 1805#
Disinfecting apparatus of Guy ton de Morveau.
A skeleton head of the Maryland marmot, or a^etomys-monax
of Linnaeus, found in a cave, in Virginia. ,
Kinloch (Cleland) Marine shells from the high hills of Santee, S. C.
Latimer (James) Gold and silver ore from South America.
Lewis (Capt. M.) Specimens of plants, earths, seeds, and minerals,
collected by him in his expedition from St. Louis up the Mis-
souri to the Western Ocean, and back, 1804, 5, 6. ..
Livingston (Robert R.) Volqanic minerals from Italy.
Maclure (Wm.) A col. of minerals made in Europe & the U. States.
Digitized by
Google
DONATION'S FOR THE CABINET. , xlilt
Mease (James, M. D.) Specimens of lead ore from Perkiomen and of
minerals from Ireland, collected by Donald Stuart, who collects
for the Dublin Society.
Mugford (Capt. Wm.) A model of his rudder, described in page 203
of this volume.
Newell (Capt. Andrew) Some rare shells and corafls from Sumatra*
Partridge (Wm.) Specimens of copper ore from Perkiomen.
Pey rouse (M.) An Indian earthen vase from Upper Louisiana.
Pichon (L. A.) Disinfecting apparatus of Guy ton de Morveau.
Rogers (Maurice) Specimen of crude platina.
Ross (Charles) Lava from the Isle of Ascension.
Rivardi (Major) An Indian hatchet.
Rose (Robert, M. D.) Minerals, coralines &c. from Niagara &c. and
coal from seven counties of Pennsylvania.
Sansom (Joseph) Two silver medals of Washington, one as Pres. of
the U. States, one as Commander in Chief. Engraved by Reich.
Smith (J. R.) A marble bust of Franklin, executed at Florence.
Smith (R. Sec. of the Navy of the U. S.) A bronze medal of Comm.
Preble. The die engraved by Reich, by order of Government.
Traquair (A.) Two large specimens of slate from the Penn. quarry.
Tanner (Benj.) An engraved portrait of the R. R. Bishop White.
Tarascon (L. A.) The lower jaw bone of the Mammoth.
Vaughan (John) Specimens of native gold from Cabarrus county,
North Carolina, purer than the standard of the United States.
——Specimens of gypsum from Nova Scotia and France.
Woodhouse (James, M. D. Late Professor of Chem. in the Univ. of
Penn.) By Will, — His collection of minerals.
Worthington (Thomas) Vitrified substance from an ancient Indian
fort. — Chilicothe.
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.
There are deposited in the Cabinet of the* Society, by Mr. John Vaughan,
and by him purchased from Mr. F. R Hassler (Mathematical Professor
at the U..S. Military College, West Point, and a member of the Society.)
1. Exact copies of two French toises, made of small bars of iron. They
have been compared with thosex sent by M. Lalande to Mr. Bird of Lon-
don, on the occasion of the measurement of a degree in Maryland, by Ma*
. son and Dixon.
2. A toiseoi Canivet bearing the inscription uToise de France etalonee
le 26 Oct. 1768 a 16° de thermometre de Reaumur. On the back of this
toise is marked the double length of a pendulum near the equator. v
3. An exact French Metre. It bears the general mark ot the Committee
pi Weights and Measures ; heing examined by them.
4. A French Kylogramme, also examined by the Committee.
Digitized by
Google
Xliv WEIGHTS AND MEASURES, &C,
5. A Standard Troy pound, carefully compared &c.
These deposits are accompanied by a memoir, stating in detail the resujt
ef a number of comparative experiments, to ascertain their accuracy, toge-
ther with the following books relative to the same subjects, also deposited
by M. Vaughan in the Library of the Society.
La figure de la terre determine e par des observations fakes au Cercle
Polaire, par M. de Maupertuis, Paris, 1738, 8vo.
Idem, par des observations de M. M. Bouger & de la Condamine aux en-
virons de Pequateur, par M. Bouger, Paris 1749, 4to.
Degre du meridien entre Paris & Amiens, determine par la mesure de M •
Picard, &c. Paris, 1740, 8vo.
Mesure des trois premiers degres du meridien dans l'hemisphere austral,
par M. de la Condamine, Paris, 1751, 4to.
La meridienne de PObserv. Roy. de Paris, verifiee par M. Cassini de Thi-
ery, Paris, 1744, 4to.
Observations astronomiques & physiques faites, pour determiner la figure
de la terre, par Don Geo. Juan & Don A. de Ulloa, Amst. 1842, 4to.
Voyage astron. & geograph. dans l'Etat de l'Eglise, par les P. P. Maire
& Boscovich, Paris, 1770, 4to.
Journal d'un voyage au Nord. 1736, 7, par M. Outhier: Paris, 1744, 4to.
Relation de deux voyages en Allemagne par rapport a la figure de la terre
&c. par M. Cassini de Thiery, Paris, 1763, 4to.
Rapport fait a PInst. Nat. de France sur la mesure de la meridienne de
France, avec le discours prononce, lors de la presentation des e talons pro-
totypes du metre & du Kilogramme, Paris, ran. 7, 4to.
Method proposed for determining the relative situation of the R. Observ.
of Greenwich & Paris, with observations on the magnitude and figure of
the earth, by Major General Wm. Roy, London, 1787, 4to.
Translation into French by M. De Prony, of the methods of measuring the
Base at Hounslow Heath by Major General Wm. Roy, Paris 1787, 4to.
An account of the trig, operations employed to determine the difference of
the Observ. of Greenwich and Paris, by Maj. Gen. Wm. Roy, 1790, 4to.
Operations faites en France, 1787, pour la jonctiondes observatoires de Pa-
ris & de Greenwich, par Cassini, Mechain, & le Gendre, Paris, 1789,4to.
Le systeme des nouvelles mesures de la France mis a la portee de tout le
monde, par Aubry, 5me ed. Paris, Pan. 7, 8vo.
Beschreibung der Ausmessungs — methode, welche bey den Danischen geo-
g-aphischen Karten angewendet worden, mit Kupfern, von Thomas
ugge, Dresden, 1787, 4to.
Schriften-Maasse und Gewichte betreffend, der Helvetischen Regierung
vorgelegt, 1801, 8vo.
Report of Thomas Jefferson, when Secretary of State, to Congress ; on the
subject of establishing a uniformity in the weights, measures and coins of
the United States, New- York, 1790, 8vo.
The above may be considered as valuable data, whenever the Go-
vernment of our country shall undertake the necessary task of establish-
ing a general standard of -weights and measures for the United States.
Digitized by
Google
TRANSACTIONS
OF THE
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, Kc.
No. I.
On the Language of Signs among certain North American Indians.
By WiVfotirn Dunbar, Esq. of the Mississippi Territory, com-
municated by Thomas Jefferson, President of the Society.
Natchez, June 30, 1800.
. SIR Rctd 16th January, 1801.
Mr. NOLAN'S man of signs has been here, but was
*o occupied that a long time elapsed ere I could have s an
opportunity of conversing with him, and afterwards falling sick
was seized with such an invincible desire of returning to his
own country, that I had little hopes of gaining much upon
his impatience.
A commencement however we have made, and although lit-
tle has been done, it is sufficient to convince me, that this lan-
guage by signs has been artfully and systematically framed. In
my last I took notice of some analogy which I conceived to sub*
«st between the Chinese written language and our Western
language by signs; I had not then read Sir George Staunton's
account of the British Embassy to China. I will here beg
your permission to transcribe a paragraph or two from that
work, which appear to strengthen my ideas of the probability
of their' common origin. " Almost all the countries border-
A
Digitized by
Google
2 ON THE LANGUAGE OF SIGNS AMONG
" ing on the Chinese sea or Eastern Asia, understand and use
" the written Chinese, though not the oral language. About
" 200 characters mark the principal objects of nature; these
" may be considered as roots of language, in which every other
" word or species in a systematic sense is referred to its proper
" genus or root. The heart is a genus represented by a curve
" line, somewhat of the form of the object, and the species
u referable to it, include all the sentiments, passions, and af-
" fections, that agitate the human breast, each species being
" accompanied by some mark denoting the genus or heart."
Now Sir if the commencement of this extract was altered and
we were to say " Almost all the Indian nations living between
the Mississippi, and the Western American ocean, understand
and use the same language by signs, although their respective
oral tongues are frequently unknown to each other," the re-
mainder of the paragraph would be perfectly descriptive of the
organization of this language by signs, and would convey to an
adept a full and complete idea of the systematic order which
has been observed in its formation. Permit me to refer you
to the short and very imperfect list of signs enclosed, where
you wrli find water to be a genus, and rain, snow, ice, hail,
hoar-frost, dew, &c. are species represented by signs more or
less complex, retaining always the root or genus as the basis
of the compound sign.
We are also informed that " if any uncertainty remains is
u to the meaning of a particular expression, recourse is had to
4t the ultimate criterion of tracing with the finger in the air or
" otherwise, the form of the character and thus ascertaining at
" once which was meant to be expressed :" here also is a strong
analogy between the language and practice of those countries
so far separated from each other, for those Western Indians are
so habituated to their signs that they never make use of their
oral language, without instinctively at the same time tracing
in the air all the corresponding signs, which they perform with
the rapidity of ordinary conversation. I cannot avoid con-
cluding that the custom of the Chinese of sometimes tracing
the characters in the air, is a. proof that this language by signs-
was at early periods of time universally used by them and by
*U the nations of the east coast of Asia; and perhaps if enquiry
Digitized by
7
Google
CERTAIN NORTH AMERICAN. INDIANS; 3
be nude it may be found that the usage of this universal lan-
guage is not yet totally neglected. In- the above-mentioned ac-
count of the.embassy, we aje told only, I think, of three Chinese
characters, the sun represented by a circle, the moon by a cre-
scent, and man by two lines forming an angle representing the
lower extremities ; those three signs are precisely the same which
are used by the Western people : in order to represent the two
first meqtioned, the thumb and fore-finger of the right hand
are formed either into a Circle or Crescent, and die sign of man
is expressed by extending the fore-finger of the right hand and
bringing it down, until it rests a moment between thejower ex-
tremities.
It is probable that Chinese Sailors or others, m^y be found
in your maritime towns, who, might give some useful-informa-
tion,; and it cannot I suppose be difficult to procure a collection
of Chinese characters with English explanations, which would
afford an opportunity of .making farther comparisons upon a
future investigation of this curious subject. I think Captain
Cook says, some where, that in some <?f the Islands of the
Western pacific he found persops who possessed a great facility
of communicating their idea$,by signs and made much use of
gesticulations : this was probably rto other than the language by
sigps ; and if it is found that the Chinese actually use at this day
upon some occasions a language by signs, actual experiment
alqne will convince me that it is not the s;une which is used
by our Wesjtern Indians. Hence would spring forth an analo-
gy and connection between the' Continents of the New and Old
eWorld which would go directly $o the decision of your question,
without being invplved in the ambiguity arising from the im-
perfect resemblance of words.
WILLIAM DUNBAR.
Thomas Jefferson, President A. P. S.
Digitized by
Google
ON THE JLAKQUAJSm 0* SIGNS AMONG
Signs made use of by the Indian Nations ta the West of the Mis-
sissippi, refered to in the foregoing letter.
«
White* with the under side of the fingers of the sight hand*
rub gently upon that part of the left hand which corresponds
with the knitting of die bones of the fore-finger and thumb.
-Egg. The right hand held up wkh die fingete and thumb
extended and approaching each other as if holding an Egg
within/
Stone. The right hand shut give several small blows on the
left
The same or similar to what went before* Place the two fore-
fingers parallel to each otter and push them forward a little.
Water. The hand formed into a bowl and brought up to the
mouth passing a little upwards without touching the mouth.
Bain. Begin with the sign df water, then raise the hands even
with the forehead, extending the fingers outwards and give
a shaking motion as if to represent the dripping of water.
Snout. Begin with the sign of rain, then the sign of air or
cold and conclude with the sign of white.
Ice. Begin with the sign of water then of cold,, then the earth
and lastly a stone wkh the sign of sameness or similarity.
Hail. Begin wkh die sign of water, then the sign of cold*
next the sign of a stone, then the same, then the sign of
white and lastly conclude wkh the sign of an Egg ; ail
which combined gives the idea of hail.
Frost. Begin with the sign of water, then the sign of night
or darkness* then the sign of cold* then the sign of white*
and lasdy the earth.
Cloud. Begin wkh the sign of water, then raise the two hands
as high as the forehead and placing them with an inclination
of 15o let them gently crosB one another.
Fire. The two hands brought near the breast touching or ap-
proaching each other and half shut, then moved outwards
moderately quick, the fingers being extended and the hands
a little separated at the same time, as if to imitate the appear-
ance of flame.
Bring, fetch or give me. The hand half shut wkh the thumb*
Digitized by
Goggle
CSBCAIK KttRTH AMBMCAW INDIANS. 5
presing against the fore-finger, being first moderately ex-
tended either to the right or left, is brought with a moderate
jerk to the opposite side, as if something was pulled along
by die hand. Consequently the sign of water preceding this
sign wopld convey the expression " give me water."
Earth. The two hands open and extended, brought horizon-
tally near each other opposite to either knee, then carried
to the; opposite side and raised in a curve movement until
brought found and opposite to the face.
Air. The right hand held perpendicularly upwards and
brought forwards with a tremulous or vibratory motion until
it passes beyond the face.
Big, great or large. The two hands open placed wide apart on
each side the body and moved forwards.
Fear, to be afraid to cause fear. The two hands with the fin-
gers turned inwards opposite lo the lower ribs, then brought
upwards with a tremulous movement as if to represent the
common idea of the heart rising up to jhe throat, the three
last sigpsplaoed in the *>rder given, would convey the idea
of a violent hurricane.
&cn. The thumb and finger forming a circle elevated in front
towards the face.
Moon. The thumb and finger open are elevated towards the
iright ear; this last sign is generally preceded by sign of the
night or darkness which
iiight is the two hands open and extended crossing one another
horizontally.
Heat. The two hands raised as high as the head and bending
forwards horizontally with the points of the fingew curving
a litde downwards.
QM. The same sign, as for air, but when applied to a per-
son the right hand is shut and held up nearly opposite the
shoulder and put into a tremulous motion.
jf . The lingers of the right hand laid against the breast. Thi*
last sign with that preceding placed after it would signify I
am cold.
Smoak. Begin, with the sign of fire then raise the hand up-
ward with the fingers open as if to represent smaak.
Digitized by
Google
6 ON THE LANGUAGE OF SIGNS AMONG
Clear, The hands are uplifted and spread, both ways from the
head. , v
Bow, The left hand being a little extended, the right hand
touches it and makes the motion of drawing. the cord of the
bow:
Thunder. The sign of rain accompanied by the voice imita-
ting the rumbling sound of thunder.
lightning. First the sign of thunder, then open 05 separate
the hands and lastly bring the right hand down towards the
earth in the center of the opening just made.
Cow. t The two fore-fingers brought up to the side of the head
and extended outwards so as to represent the position of the
horns.
Male and Female. Note, to distinguish between the Male and
Female in all cases add for the male a fillip with the fore-
finger of the right hand on the cheek and for the female,
bring the two hands open towards the breast, the fingers
approaching and then move them outwards.
Gelt. Bring the fingers and thumb of the left hand together as
if something was held by them, then approach the right
hand and make the motion. of cutting across what is suppo-
sed to be held in the left hand, and then draw off the right
hand as if pulling away what has been. cut.
Dunghill fowl. Bring the thumb arid fingers of the right hand
together, and holding the hand moderately elevated, move
h across imitating the motion of the head of a cock in walk-
ing.
Turkey. The open hands brought up opposite. to the shoulders
and imitating slowly the motion of the wings of a bird, to
which add the last sign.
Duck. The last sign, then the sign of water, and lastly the
sign of swimming which last is performed by the fore-nnger
of the right hand extended outwards and moved to and fro.
Horse. The right hand with the edge downwards, the fingera
joined, the thumb recumbent, extended forwards.
Deer. The right hand extended upwards by the. right ear,
with a quick puff from the mouth.
Man with the fore-finger of the right hand extended and
the hand shut describe a line beginning at the pit of the
Digitized by
Google
CERTAIN NORTH AMERICAN INDIANS. 7
* stomach and passing down the middle of the body, as far as
the hand conveniently reaches holding the hand a moment
between the lower extremities. ""
Woman. The finger and thumb of the right hand partly open,
and placed as if laying hold of the breast.
pteld. , Bring the fingers and thumb of the right hand and
place them against the lips, then draw them away and bring
the right hand against the fore arm of the left as if holding
an infant. Should the child be male, prefix the sign of a
man before the last sign, and if a female, do so by the sign
of the womkn.
Boy. Bring the fingers and thumb of the right hand to touch
th&lipfc, then extend the hands and make the sign of man,
then raise the hand with the fingers upwards and placed at
the height of -a boy.
Girl. Begin with the above sign and make the sign of wo-
man, and then raise the hand to the height of the girl.
YoUW The hand open held upwards obliquely and pointing
forward. r / r.
He; or another. The fore-fingers extended, and . hands shut,
and fingers brought • over onte another, or nearly touching
and then separated mod^ately (fuickl
Many or much. The flat of the right hand patting on the
back of the left hand ; which is repeated in proportion to the
greater or lesser quantity.
Know. The fore-finger of the right hand held up nearly op-
posite to the nose, and brought with a half turn to the right
and carried a little outwards. Place any of the articles be-
fore the last sign ; which will then signify, I know, you
know, he knows ; — both hands being made use of in the
manner described, implies to know much.
Now, or at present. The two hands forming each an hollow
and brought near other and put into a tremulous motion up-
wards and downwards.
Come here. The hand stretched outwards with the palm under,
and brought back with a curve motion downwards and incli-
ning to the body.
Go. The back of the hand stretched out and upwards.
Digitized by
Google
8 OK TH3^ LANGUAGE OF SIGNS AMONG
What say you. The pah* of the hind upward* and carried cir-
cularly outwards and depressed.
No, nothing, I have none. The hand held up before the face,
with the palm outwards, and vibrated to and fro.
From whence came you, say. First the sign of you, then the
hand extended open and drawn tp the breast and lastly, the
sign of, what say you ?
Come. The fore-finger moved from right to left with an in-
terrupted motion as if imitating the alternate movement of
stepping.
Mine. The hand shut and held up to the view.
House. The hand half open and die fore-finger extended and
separated, then raising the hand upwards and give it a half
turn, as if screwing something.
Done or Finished. The hands placed edge up and down par-
allel to each other, the right hand without which latter is
drawn back as if cutting something.
Spring Season. The sign of cold, to which add the last sign o£
being done or finished.
Body. The hands with the fingers pointed to the lower put
of the body and then drawn upwards*
Hair. The movement of combing.
Digitized by
Google
No. II.
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
FOR ONE ENTIRE YEAR.
MADE by William Dunbar, Esq. at the Forest four and a
half miles east of the river Mississippi in North Lat. 31<> 28' and
Long. 91° 30' West of Greenwich, on an eminence about 150 feet
higher than the level of the highest waters qf the annual inunda-
tion of the Mississippi; beginning on the 1st day of February 1 79£,
end ending the 3 1st January 1 800, inclusive.
Communicated by Thomas Jefferson, President of the Society.
Head 16th January, 1801.
IN Ithe following observations, the strength of the wind is
divided into four degrees, viz. No. 1. indicates & light Zephyr.
No. 2. a brisk breeze. No. 3. a very strong wind. No. 4.
a tempest or hurricane. When the course of the wind is
noted, but the strength omitted, it is to be understood that
the direction of the wind has been observed by the gentle
movement of the clouds, or, perhaps, by the progress of smoke,
while to the senses a perfect calm reigns below. When two.
currents of air have been observed, they are noted, the strength
referring always to the latter current
B
Digitized by
Google
10 Meteorological observations.
A mercurial thermometer of the best kind made in Lon-
don, with £ arhenheit's scale adapted, consisting of divisions
of one line to the degree, was suspended to the inner part of
a column of the northern gallery of a large dwelling house
nine feet from the earth, in such a manner that the thermo-
meter was not in contact with the column, being twelve feet
distant from the wall of the building, and entirely defended
from the sun-beams by surrounding forest trees, while a free
circulation of the atmosphere prevailed below. Frequent ex-
periments shewed that during the hot hours of a summer's
day, the thermometer being removed into a hall within the
building and suspended twelve feet from the wall, the mer-
cury fell from two to two and a. half degrees, although a' free
circulation was maintained by two large open windows and one
door in each of the opposite walls* of the building.
It may be proper to remark further that the summer of
1799 was accounted cool, the thermometer never having ri~
sen above 92 a whereas during the warm* season of 1800 it was
often at 96° and 97°; though at the same time if the therr
mometer was placed under a deep shade of surrounding trees,
it would fall to 91Q, It aopears that the proper situation
for the thermometer, is such as is completely, shaded from
the direct sun-beams, but not so as to exclude all influence by
reflection from the surface of the earth, being thai which
will best indicate the influence of atmospheric heat upon ve-
getation, which is what ha3 been attempted to be shewn in
the following journal.
Norm. The Society have been induced to publish this Journal mtlre, as it is certainly the firs*
that has been kept with so much accuracy and attention, in that part of the world, and may serve
m a standard with which to compare future observations.
Digitized by
Google
MADE IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.
11
Days*
Fri.
1
HOURS.
6. 3. 9.
Th. Bar.
58
66
61
29 58
29 53
39 69
Sat.
2
Son.
- 3
Thar.
7
Pii
8
41 »74
574 29 71
55 29 71
W75
PTS.
FEBRUARY. I
x . State of the weather.
£
N W
NW*
W
0.25
29 87
29 93
VV:NE
E
305
52 30 13
44J30 13
*34 3D 12
57 30 12
52 30 10
N
NE
N
*5 »36
62 29 68
59j 29 75
55 29 63
524 29 70
42| 29 85
31 30 00 InW
44 30 10
34 30 22
Drizzly.
Moderate rain.,
Cloudy, calm.
Clouds dispersing.
Thin white clouds.
Clearing up.
Clear.
Very clear.
Thin clouds.
s
W:NE1
lENE
Thin veil of gr ddsT
Lt. thin white clouds
Hazy.
ESE i
s 1
sw
Sn.~sh. thr' a wht. hze.
Do. the air grs. damp.
Cloudy, damp.
1.80
Overct with dk gr cf
Rain
Rain, thun, & light'g,
SE
NW
ENE 1
3.14AUoud
S*.
9
Son.
10
38 30 26
36 30 25
45 30 244
NW
NW
HTJT
N .
Wed.
13
26 30 21
55 30 15
4230 14
26(30 14
64 30 04
57 30 04
50 30 00
54 2999
50 29 99
VT
50 30 00
54 29 99
51 29 99
W
W
tr
E
E
iy, Ok. wit. rain.
Clouds dispersing.
Cloudy.
CEar.
VeTy clear..
Very dear.
Some wh. elds, nr. hor
Very dr. wh. cL nr. h.
Very dear.
Ck. ab. thin wh.cn.h.
Clouds increases
Cloudy.
Somedouds.
Thin white douds.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
0.74>Raiiu.
51 30 025 E
55 29 99 N
48 29 98 ENE
Rain.
Cloudy.
0.15 Rain.
HOURS.
6. 3. 9.
Days. Th. Bar.
Pts.
Fri.
15
Sat.
16
Sun.
17
Mon.
18
Tues.
19
"4B~29r57\£
43 29 94 ENE
41 29 94 E N E
Str.
In.
3ST2f~g5*bX"
41 29 86 W
35 29 86 N W
~30 » fiff'.flTW — I
59 29 98 NE 1
49 29 98
"5T96
0.16
Drizzly.
Drizzly.
Rain.
1 0.66
64
60
29 88
29 80
S1~
SW
SW
Wed..
20
TEur.
21
Fri.
22
Sat.
23
Sun.
24
Mon.
25
Tues.
26
Wed.
27
Thur.
28
# »t5
70 29 62
67 29 62
S W
67 29 62
45 29 66
39 29 78
3ft »83
26 29 83
24 29 94
Tsrwm
32 30 09
27 30 09
27 30 00
46 3000
33 30 02
284 30 05
60 30 05
47. 30 03
46 U.M
61 29 80
6L 29 80
66 29 64
75 29 56
71 29 59
TT59
ir — r
NW 1
NW 1
"KI55
NW
N W
NW
E
SE
NW
S
SE
SE
54 29 /4
55 29 71
58 29 71
■arte*
59 29 59
48 29 73
WW
NE
1
1
£
NW 1
•NW 1
1799.
State of the weather.
Drizzly.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Clear wh dds. nr. hor.
Clear.
Grey clouds.
Grey douds increase.
Rain commences.
Kai^
Cold & drizzling.
Drizzling.
now.
Small sleet or snow.
Clear.
Very dear.
Clear wh dds. nr. hor.
Very dear.
"Nfery dear.
Thin white douds.
Clear.
blear white douds.
A few white douds.
Clear.
Grey and blackish cL
Clear.
Drizzly.
FW 1 0.10 Drizzly, sun shi. at ti.
S W 1 Some douds.
S W Clearing up.
£Iear.
Cloudy.
107 Rain
KanT
Rain.
Clearing op.
REMARKS.
February 1st, Peach and plum trees in bloom. 3d. Peas in bloom. 13th, The strawberry blossoms. 17th, The horse
Digitized by
Google
12
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
HOIKS. j
6|. 3. 9. J WIND8'
MARCH.
HOURS.
6J. 3. 9.
WlIfDS.
>
as
1799.
Days.
Th. Bar.
Pts.
Str.
Ik.
State of the weather.
Days.
Ta.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
1*.
State of th« wcatfser.
Fri.
1
41 29 83
51 29 97
41 30 03
NW 1
N W 1
Clear.
Clear,
Cloudy.
Sun.
17
5d 2983
75 29 90
44 29 90
N 1
N 1
N
|Cle»r.
Clear.
Clear.
Sat.
2
41 30 05
59 30 13
41 30 09
N
N
N
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
18
29 29 90
57 29 86
50 29 80
It 1
SE
SE
Clear, very dear.
Very dear.
Cloudy.
Sun.
3
35 30 12
60 30 19
51 30 14
N
N 1
Very clear.
Very clear.
Tues.
19
50 29 68
66 29 57
66 29 53
SE
E 1 0.11
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
Mon.
4
36 30 14
60 30 14
52 30 14
W
N 1
NE
Light dds. at the hor.
Grey clouds.
Wed.
20
64 29 59
48 29 68
48 29 80
E l
NW 1
N 1 2.91
Katn.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
5
41 30 19
60 30 19
53 30 24
N£ 1
i
Clear.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Thurs.
21
51 29 92
39 29 94
M W i
NW
Cloudy.
Clear.
Very dear.
Wed.
6
41 30 $4
70 30 15
S3 30 10
W l
SW 1
Clear.
Clear.
Friday.
22
33 36 65
56 3005
42 30 05
N W
N.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Thur.
7
41 30 K>
72 29 96
61 29 96
NE
S 1
Very dear.
Grey clouds.
Rain.
Satur.
23
33 30 21
67 30 13
49 30 13
H '1
N 1
Very dear.
Very dear.
Cloudy.
Fri.
8
57 29 88
67 29 754
67 29 75
E
N 1
0.26
Ram.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Sundav
24 '
3* 36 13
70 30 04
55 30 04
N
NE 1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sat.
9
5* £9*1
70 29 84
56$ 29 84
W l
W:NE 1
N
White douds & dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
25
43 30
72 29 91
57 29 91
S
s
White clouds.
White douds.
Clear.
Sun.
10
49 39 $6
75 29 95
56 29 95
riE i
NE 1
N
Clear white cl. at hor.
Clear.
Halo round the moon.
Tues.
26
45 29 91
72 29 87
53 29 87
& &tt
Foggy.
White clouds.
Clear.
Mon.
11
45 29 95
75 29 90
56 29 85
N 1
NW 1
NW
Very clear.
Whjte douds.
Cloudy, halo.
Wed.
27
45 2467
76 29 87
63 29 87
N
Clear.
Very dear.
Tues.
12
54 29 *3
66 29 77
64*29 80
£
S 1
0,13
Rain.
Drizzly.
Overcast.
Thurs.
28
50 3006
70 30 08
53 30 08
NE
E
W
Light fog.
Grey douds.
Cloudy.
Wed.
13
54 29 88
70 29 89
57 29 93
NE
N 1
Dark grey douds.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday.
29
461 3666
68 3000
58 29 95
vV
w
w
Grey dona's.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thur.
14
43 »94
60 29 86
55 29 86
tfk ' i
E 1
0.32
Drizzly-
Cloudy and rain.
Cloudy.
Satur.
30
52 29 90
75 29 70
65 29 70
w
W 1 0.03
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Friday.
15
44 29 80
56 29 84
49 29 88
N 1
N 1
N
brizzly.
Clearing up.
Qlear.
Sunday
31
63 26 5^
75 29 63
64 29 59
w
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Satur.
16
39 29 88
75 29 83
58* 29 77
NE
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear. A Halo.
.
REMARKS.
1st. Wild cherry buds. 5th, The yellow poplar, red oak, and dogwood in flower. 15th, Trees in general shew
buds or blossoms, excepting the walnut species, including the pacawn and hickory. 26th, Commenced planting
having planted corn with the beginning of the month.
Digitized by
Google
MADE IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.
13
ho oat.
5. 3. 9.
W1UDS.
10
APRIL.
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
winds.
*
a*
1799.
Days.
TH.
Bab.
Pts.
St*.
In.
State of the weather.
Days.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of die weather.
Mon.
1
75
64
29 54
29 54
29 53
§
NW
W
1
3 0.50
Rain.
Rain and hail.
Clearing up.
Tues.
16
& 29 51
73 29 51
68 29 51
S
ssw
1 0.26
Cloudy.
Rain.
Clouds thinner.
Toes.
2
50
68
57
29 80
29 80
29 80
N
1
I
Very dear.
Very dear.
Wed.
17
4& 2^ 63
M 29 68
64 29 74
ssw
ssw
1
1
Clds. disp» almost dr.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
3
47
72
61
59 80
29 82
29 82
S
Clear.
Grey douds.
Thurs.
18
61 29 83
78 29 85
70 29 87
N
NW
NW
1
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Thurs.
4
55
68
50
29 86
29 86
29 48
tffi "
ENE
E
1
1 0.13
Rain.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Friday
19
56 29 87
76 29 91
68 29 96
NW
NW
NW
1
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
5
41
55
44
35
64
50
29 90
29 94
29 94
29 94
29 94
29 94
W
N
Cloudy.
Clear.
Star light.
Satur.
20
51 & 94
72 29 94
64 29 85
E
S
2
1
1
Clr.with thin we. vap.
More clouds. '
Rain commences.
Satur.
6
NW
NE
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sunday
21
64 29 61
78 29 58
72 29 58
5
S
S
i 1.140
1
1
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Sunday
7
37
71
60
^94
29 84
29 84
SW
SW
w
1
1
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
22
72 29 55
83 29 51
79 29 51
SW
SW
SW
1
2
Cioudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
MOIL
56
73
68
29 84
29 76
2*) 76
w
w
1
2
Clear.
Cloudy.
Stars give dim light.
Tues.
53
6"$ »70
76 29 76
68 29 82
NW
NW
NW
1
3
Very dear.
Clear.
Very dear.
Tues.
9
55
66
50
30 00
29 97
29 97
SE
w
2
2
Clear.
Clear. •
Clear.
Wed.
24
58 29 82j
83 29 82
78 2982
S
s
1
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
10
44
63
62
'WW
29 84
29 82
w
w
1
Clear.
White clouds.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
25
81 29 82
74 29 82
s w
s
s
I
2
1
Clear.
Thin white douds.
Cloudy.
* Alton,
11 .
55
70
66
29 72
29 70
29 68
w
1
0.02
X. few douds.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Friday
26
68 29 67
78 29 54
75 29 60
SE
S
1 0,795
2 0.125
Rain.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Friday
12
64
76
72
29 70
29 74
29 74
E
(Cloudy.
[Cloudy.
[Cloudy.
Satur.
37
65 29 67
81* 29 67
71 29 70
SW
s w
1
1
Clearing up.
Clear.
Very dear.
Satur.
13
68
81
76
29 74
29 74
29 83,
SW
[Cloudy.
[Cloudy,
(Cloudy.
Sunday
28
58 29 77
86 29 77
77 2977
ssw
s
s
2
1
1
Very dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sunday
14
71
78
71
29 88
29 88
29 86
w
SE
IFine rain.
[Fine rain.
[Cloudy.
Mon.
29
Tues.
30
74 29 84
87 29 84
78 29 79
s
s
8
1
Thin grey douds.
Clear.
Clear.
BffotL.
68
78
73
29 80
29 72
29 64
SE ""
SE
1 [Cloudy.
2 'Cloudy,
i Cloudy.
80 29 63
77 29 73
64 29 80
s
1
2 -
Grey douefcs.
Some drops of rain.
Ram.
REMARKS,
1st. The hail was of a spheroidal form f Inch In its equatorial diameter, and {inch In its *xb, very transparent
and fell with a N W wind. 10th. Strawberry redens. 12th. Walnut and hickory trees begin to bud, also Linn. Grass
pastures begin to furnish abundance of food in the wood lands. 13th. Young artichokes formed and shooting up.
16th, Strawberry ripe. 20th, Green peas and artichokes ripe. 22d, Grubs mnd caterpillars devour the young cotton,
corn and Irish potatoes, &c.th* cottro shoots from rnany of the old alaika. 36th, Windsor beans nt to gather.
Digitized by
Google
14
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS. .
Days.
Th» Bar. i * Pts. Str. In.
Wed.
1
Thurs.
2
Friday
3
Satur.
4
Sunday
5
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
64 29 90
70 29 95
60 30 00
NW
N W
NW
77 30 00
64 30 00
NW
NW
56 30 00
74 30 00
64 30 00
WW
NW
NW
55 30 04
74 30 00
60 30 00
56 30 00
74 30 00
68 29 96
Mou.
6
Tues.
7
Wed.
8
Thurs.
9
Friday
10
Satur.
11
Sunday
12
Mon.
13
Tuet.
14
Wed.
15
Thus*
16
61 29 97
82^ 29 99
Tl 29 99
65 2*99
83 29 98
71 29 98
W
S
S
S
S
65 29 98
83} 29 98
71 29 98
84 29 99
71 29 99
# 29 $6
85 29 93
74 29 87
64 29 90
84 29 90
72 29 85.
65 29 90
86 29 88
73 29 87
65 29 90
84 29 88
73 29 85
69 29 81
80- 29 67
75 29 67
7!TWW
83 29 67
78. 29 64
TGTW7T
83 29 68
72 29 83
State of the weather.
NT
NW
N W
NW
ssw
WNW.1
W
w—
w
sw
ssw
si — r
WWK-1
SE 1
W
w
rw. — r
0.21
MAY.
Clear,
aear.
Vcty clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very dear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very dear.
Very thin we. doi
Thin white clouds
Thin clouds.
uds.
Clear.
White douds*
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
White dds. at the hor.
Clear
Foggy.
Clean
Clear*
Slightly hazy.
Thin veil o£ white els.
Stars shine dimly.
Grey morning;.-
Grey douds.
Cloudy.
Grey clouds.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thin douds.
1 Thin white douds.
Fine veil of white dds
Dark douds, rain.
Cloudy & rain.
Clouds disperse.
Days. Th
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
Bar.
Friday
17
Satur.
18
Sunday
19
Mon.
20
Tues.
21
Wed.
22
Thur
2a
Friday
24
Satur.
25
29 70
29 74
29 77
WINDS.
Pts.
"WW
29 88
29 88
w
w
Str.
Ijc.
N W
N W
N W
T
2
29 90
29 90
29 90
W
80
73
WW
29 90
29 88
8»
76
29 94
29 92
29 89
75-
86
76*
WW
29 87
29 83
~WW
29 81
29 80
S
SW
W
SW
SW
w
86i
77
WW
29 75
29 73
W
86
29 74
29 77
29 70
Sunday
26
Mon.
27
Tues.
28
Wed.
29
Thurs.
30
Friday
31
82
•72
29 75
29 76
29 76
85
72
2985
29 85
29 85
86
72
"WM
29 91
29 93
69
84
75
29 88
29 87
29 86
■ST
85
74
ITSo"
29 82
29 79
lor
29 81
29 79
N
N
S W
w
sW"
s
T
2
1
T
W
W
N W 2 0.58 Rain
WN W
WNW 1
W
SW 1
W SW 1
w
0.02
£
SSE
1799.
State of the weather.
Thin white douds.'
Clear.
Clear.
Very dear.
Very clear.
Very dear.
VeryclearT
Very dear.
Very dean
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Grey douds. """**
A few white clouds. .
Clear,
Grey douds.
White douds.
Clear.
Some white douds. *
Clr, with some wh.a
Clear.
Some Grey clouds."
Clear.
Clear:
Stars shine dim.
Some white douds.
Grey douds.
Star light.
Clean
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
White douds.
Cloudy small rain.
Cloudy.
Thin douds.
Thin douds.
Thin douds.
Thin white douds.
Stars shine dimly.
Clear, some douds.
Clear.
Clfar.
REMARKS:
5th, Poppies in flower. 10th, Black mulberry ripe ; gathered ripe turnip teed and Cabbage seed ; grubs and caterpft^
lars disappear in our field. 12th, French beans fit to eat. 18th, Rye and wheat fit to reap-
Digitized by
Google
MADE IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY*
IS
Day*
Th.
Satur.
1
Sunday
2
Mon.
3
Toes.
4
Wed.
5
Thur.
6
Friday
7
Satur.
8
Sunday
9
Mon.
10
Toes.
11
Wed.
12
Thurs.
13
Friday
14
9atnr.
15
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
Bar.
87 29
78 29
Pts.
In.
W
W
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
69 29
87 29
79 29
74 29
87 29
72: 29
7&> 29
89$ 29
67 29
WW
92 29
82 29
W 2§
92 29
80 29
83"
72 29
88 29
79 29
71TW
87 29
76 29
73TW
87 29
70 29
70 29 80
89 29 90
73 29 94
6* 29 96
84 30 02
79 30 00
73 30 00
90 29 96
76 29 94
72 29 94
91 29 90
76 29 87
» 29&
88 29 83
79 29 80
72 29 82
92 29 85
77 29.88
SE
NE
NE
W
N
N
N
W
sw
w
sw
w
SE
IT
.2
SE
s w
SE
NE
3 012
JUNE.
State of the weather.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Cleat.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clr. dome drops of rain
Clear.
Clear;
Clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Light clouds.
rain.
Clouds.
0.10 Light
Cloudy.
Cloudy;
Clear.
Light grey clouds.
Lightgrey clouds.
Clear.
Clear.
Grey clouds.
Clear.
Rain.
Rain.
Clear,
Days.
Th.
Sun.
16
Mon.
17
Tues.
18
Wed.
19
Thurs.
20
Friday
21
Satur.
22
Sun.
23
Mon.
24
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
Bar.-
Tues.
25
Wed.
26
Thurs.
27
91 29 88
78 29 88
72 29 89"
91 29 90
80 29 89
71 29 91
92 29 90
78 29 89
73 29 92
91 29 91
79 29 90
70 29 93
92 29 92
79 29 91
69 29 94
92 29 94
65 29 93
70 29 97
92 29 97
75 29 97
71 29 98
89 29 98
65 29 98
Friday
28
Satur.
29
Sunday
30
73 29 98
87 29 98
89 29 97
76 29 96
90 29 96
77 29 96
73 29 98
SO 29 97
77 29 96
77 29 98
87 29 97
762996
79 5$ a
B$ 2*97
74 29^96
73 29 98
86 29 97
76 2*96
W 29 $S
86 29 97
75 29 96
Pts. Str.
In.
SE
SE
dear.
Clear'
Clear.
S W
s w
SE
SW
SE'
s w
SE
SE
0.82
0.10
Light clouds.
Cloudy and rain.
Rain, thundergust.
ST
SE
SE
ST"
SE
SE
ST"
SE
SE
S
SW
sir
sw
sw
s\F
S 1
S 1
0.71
0.21
SE
SE
SE
1799.
£sate of the weather.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Hazy.
Light clouds.
Light clouds. .
Hazy.
Light clouds.
Clear.
Hazy.
Light clouds.
Dull star light.
ight clouds.
Light clouds.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clouds & sunshine.
Cltudy.
CloudsT
Flying clouds.
Cloudy.
Ci«S!
Drizzly.
Clear.
Clear.
Clouds & fine raiir.'
Clear.
CleaT
Ram.
Rain.
Clear.
Rain.
Rain.
Clear-
Rain.
Rain.
REMARKS.
10th, Tender Indian corn fit for use ; also, earliest peaches just beginning to ripen. 12th, Cotton in blossom. -
Digitized by
Google
Iff
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
HOURS.
4f. 3. 9.
WINDS.
>
♦4
JULY.
Day*.
HOURS.
4J. 3r 9.
WINDS.
91
1799.
Days.
Th.J Bab.
Pts. |Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Mon.
1
70 29 98
86 29 97
77 29 96
S 1
SE 1
0.22
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Wed.
17
73 29 84
89 29 83
74 29 82
SE 1
S W
Clear.
Clouds & sunshine.
Clear & fine.
Tiies.
2
73 29 96
89 29 95
74 29 95
SE
S E 1 0.02
SW
Clouds.
Rain.
Clouds.
Thurs.
18
72 39 84
89 29 83
73 29 82
SE 1
SW
fine.
Clear.
Fine.
Wed.
3
73 29 95
89 29 94
74 29 93
S 1
Clouds.
Clouds.
Clouds.
Friday
19
70 29 83
90 29 82
72 29 81
SW 1
fine.
Some clouds.
Clear & fine.
Thur.
4
74 29 94
90 29 93
73 29 92
SE 1
Clouds.
Clouds.
Clouds.
Satur.
20
72 29 81
91 29 80
80 29 80
sW
SW 1
SW 1
Clear & fine.
Some clouds.
Very fine.
Friday
5
70 29 90
84 29 87
70 29 86,
SE 1
1.05
Clouds.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Sunday
21
1$ »83
SO 29 82
77 29 80
<> W i
SW 1
Very fine.
Very fine.
Very fine.
Satur.
6
75 2$ 65
87 29 84
80 29 83
SE 1
0.01
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Mon.
22
ii 2Mi"
92 29 82
83 29 83
w
s
Very line.
Very fine.
Very fine.
Sun.
7
70 59.82
88 .29 81
78 29 81
Cloudy.
Small rain.
Cloudy.
Tues.
23
70 29 83
914 29 78
78£29 78
NW
N W 1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
8
75 29 80
89 29 80
89 29 79
E 1
0.10
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Wed.
24
71 & rt
89 29 80
80 29 81
NE 1
6lear. ""
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Toes.
9
73 29 79
86 29 80
77 29 82
E
E
0.2*
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
25
72 29 84
90 29 88
80 29 90
NE 1
Cloudy.
Clear.
Clear;
Wed.
10
74 29 83
90 29 83
76 29 84
E 0.10
E
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Friday
26
70 29 94
91* 29 97
98 29 91
S
S 1
SW
Clear.
Fine.
Fine.
Thur.
11
73 &*5
89 29 86
77 29 86
E
Clear.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Satur.
07
t6 »tt
92 29 92
82 29 91
SW 1
SW 1
Clear. *
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
12
73 29 86
90* 29 87
83 29 86
E
NE I
SW 1
•
Clear.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Sunday
28
75 29 92
91* 29 91
82 29 91
SW 1
SW
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
13
"W 29 86
89 29 85
73 29 84
SE
s w
0.10
Cloudy.
Cloudy & rain.
Clear.
Mon.
29
75 29 93
91$ 29 92
73 29 91
SE
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Sun.
14
76 &86
89| 29 85
72 29 84
SE 1
S W
Clear.
Clouds & sunshine.
Clear.
Tues.
30
H 2d 93
92 29 92
73 29 92
S E 1 0.12
SW
Cloudy.
Rain.
Clear.
Mon.
15
75 29 85
90 2984
73 29 83
SE 1
S W i
Fine.
Clouds & sunshine.
Very clear.
Wed.
31
74, &£4
89 29 92
73 29 90
SE
Clear. *
Clear.
Fine.
Tues.
16
'74 29 84
87 29 83
75 29 82
SE 1
SW
0.15
Clear & tine.
A shower.
Fine.
\
REMARKS.
Cotton pods as large as a walnut, on the 15th.
Digitized by
Google
MADE IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.
17
HOURS.
4J. 3. 9.
1 *
WINDS. 1 £
I ?
AUGUST.
:
HOURS.
4$. 3. 9.
winds.
>
5
*
1799.
Days.
Th.
Bar.
Pts. |Str. In.
State of the weather.
Days.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In
State of the weatheiv
Thur.
1
72 29 90
87 29 88
78 29 86
SE 1
Clear.
Fine.
Fine,
Satur.
17
\75 29 81
84 29 80
73 29 79
W
N 1
Clear.
Thin clouds.
Clear.
Friday
2
76 29 86
85 29 85
75 29 85
S W
S £ 1 0.03
E
Light clouds.
Light shower.
Cloudy.
Sunday
18
69 29 79
84 29 78
72* 29 77
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Satur.
3
70 29 85
86 29 85
73 29 86
E 1
NE 2 1.77
Rain.
Mon.
19
65 29 78
8U 29 78
69 29 78
NE
N E 3 0.05
Very fine.
Thnndergust & rain.
Clear.
Sun.
4
72 »&"
83 29 86
75 29 84
W
Clear.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Tues.
20
65 29 78
79 29 77
68 29 77
E
E 1
E 0.40
Rain.
Rain.
Rain.
Mon.
5
71 29 86
88 29 86
73 29 87
NW .
Cloudy. .
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
21
65 29 82
75 29 80
72 29 79
E
£ 1
E
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
6
69 29 89
87* 29 89
73 29 88
NW
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
22
66 29 80
82 29 82
72 29 83
E
SE 1
Cloudy.
Cloudy, drops of ram.
Cloudy.
Wed.
7
68 29 88
90 29 90
78 29 91
N
SW
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
23
68 29 85
83 29 87
74 29 88
SE 1
Cloudy.
Cloudy, drops of rain.
Cloudy.
Tkur.
8
71 29 92
89 29 92
72 29 92
S 0.02
SW
Clear.
Some clouds & rain.
Cloudy.
Satur.
24
72 29 99
86 29 96
72 59 98
S 1
S 1 0.77
CI. a st. wth heav. ra.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
9
69 29 94
86 29 93
75 29 92
S
S ^ 0.72
SW
Cloudy.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Sunday
25
68 29 97
86 29 96
76 29 95
S
NW
Clear.
Some clouds.
Clear.
Satur.
10
87 29 90
79 29 90
S
S 1
S W
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Mon.
26
69 29 91
87 29 88
79 29 87
NE
E , 1
s 1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sim.
11
75 »#>
89 29 89
82 29 89
S 1 0.05
S W
Cloudy.
Cloudy & rain.
Cloudy.
Tues.
27
72 29 88
89 29 87
79 29 86
E
SE 0.01
Clear.
A small shower.
Clear.
M(m.
12
iS & 89
85 29 89
80 29 89
SW 1
SW
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
28
79 29 87
84 29 88
79 29 89
E 0.03
E 1
S
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
13
76 29 89
88 29 88
76 29 88
SW 0.01
SW
Cloudy.
Fine rain.
Clear.
Thure.
29
75 29 91
87 29 91
77 29 91
E
E 1
S
Foggy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
14
70 29 86
90 29 85
794 29 85
SE
Cloudy.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
30
75 29 91
87 29 92
78 29 91
E
E 1
E
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thur.
15
73 29 84
89 29 83
79 29 82
SW
Clear.
Some clouds.
Clear.
Satur.
31
73 29 90
87 29 90
80 29 90
E
E
Cloudy.
Cloudy
Cloudy.
Friday
16
76 29 82
89 29 81
82 29 81
Thin clouds.
Thin clouds.
Clear.
REMARKS.
31st. Picked cotton.
D
Digitized by
Google
18
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
HOURS.
4J.3. 9.
WINDS.
SO
>
SEPTEMBER.
HOURS.
44.3. 9.
WINDS.
>
%
1799.
Days.
TH.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Days.
Th.
Bab.
Pts. |Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Sunday
1
76 29 9J
90 29 94
81 29 92
E 1 Thin whiie clouds.
S E 1 Some white clouds.
S 1 Clear.
Mon.
16
72
78
75
&> &5
29 79
29 78
E 0.53
Cloudy, drops of rain.
Rain.
Cloudy.
Mon.
2
75 29 91
87 29 90
79 29 90
E Cloudy.
E Cloudy.
S Clear.
Tues.
17
75
80
74
29 77 IE
29 ?6 |E 1
29 75 |E 0.20
Cloudy.
Cloudy & rain.
Rain.
Tues.
3
75 29 88
86 29 87
77 29 86
Some clouds.
S E 0.53 Rain.
S Cloudy.
Wed.
18
72
70
65
29 75 IE
29 75 IN W 2
29 78 'NW
Rain.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
4
75 29 85
87 29 80
78 29 79
76 29 79
83 29 78
76 29 78
S Cloudy & fog.
S E 1 -Cloudy & thunder.
S IClear.
Thurs.
19
55
66
29 84
29 84
29 84
N VV 1
NW 1
N
Clear.
Clear.
Cloudy & damp.
Thurs.
5
E .Clear.
S E 1 |Some clouds,
S W Some clouds.
Friday
20
62
84
66
29 83
29 83
29 82
NE
N W 1
Cloudy.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
6
73 29 78
87 29 78
79 29 77
NW
NW 1
NW
Some clouds.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
21
66
81
74
29 80
29 83
29 85
NW
w 1
NW
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
7
72 29 77
86 29 77
79 29 77
NW
s w 1
NW
Clear.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Sunday
22
Y6
83
75
29 84
29 82
W
w 1
Clear.
Clear.
Cloudy.
Sunday
8
72 29 80
86 29 81
77 29 82
w
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
23
72
76
75
29 80
29 74
29 70
E
£ 2
W 1.31
£kmdy 8t dark.
Rain.
Rain.
Mon.
9
70 & &
90 29 85
78 29 87
sw
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Tues.
24
70
79
70
5$ 64
29 65
29 66
W 135
W 1
Rain during the night
Cloudy.
Cloudy 5c sunshine
Tues.
10
72 29 87
90 29 88
79 29 89
SW 1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
25
69
78
70
£9 66*
29 70
29 72
E
s 1
sw
Cloudy & sunshine.
Cloudy.
Cloudy, sunshine.
Wed.
11
7$\ 2d 67 '
87 29 85
79 29 83
E
S E 1 0.16
N
Clear.
A little rain*
Clear.
Thurs.
26
69
75
72
29 4
29 76
29 80
w
w x
w
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
12
75 29 86
85 29 87
77 29 87
E
E 1
E
Thin clouds.
Cloudy.
Cloudy,
Friday
27
66
83
72
29 85
29 89
29 88
N
N 1
N
very clear.
Very 6ne.
Very clear.
Friday
13
73 29 85
84 29 84
75 29 83
E 1
E 1
E 0.33
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Rain.
Satur.
28
61
81
71
29 93
29 92
29 90
N
N 1
N
Very fine.
Very fine.
Very fine.
Satur.
14
73 29 84
82 29 84
73 29 84
E
E 1
E 042
Cloudy, i
Cloudy.
Rain.
Sunday
29
62
83
72
29 90
29 90
29 89
N
N 1
N
Very fine.
Very fine.
Very fine.
Sunday
15
7(> to &5
83 29 85
74| 29 85
E 0.03
E 1 0.015
E
Rain last night, d up.
Cloudy, some rain.
Cloudy.
Mon.
30
64
84
73
29 88
29 87
29 86
N
NE 1
E
Very fine.
Very fine.
Very fine.
REMARKS.
2d. Cotton harvest commences.
Digitized by
Google
MADE IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY,
IS
Days
Tucs.
1
Wed.
2
Thurs.
3
Friday
4
Satur.
5
Sunday
6
Mon.
7
Toes.
8
Wed.
9
Than.
10
Friday
11
Satur.
12
Sunday
13
BCon.
14
Tuea.
15
Wed.
16
4J.3. 9.
Th. Bar.
Pts.
69 29 86
85 29 85
73 29 81
Jstr.J In.
State of the weather.
& 2$ 66
83 29 80
74 29 77
S: E
S
ST"
|SE
S£
Clear, some white cl.
Man) white clouds.
A little hazy.
1 0.50 Rain.
71 29 78
82 29 80
75 29 82
71 29 87
81 29 87
74^ 29 86
NE
N
te 29 88
81 29 89
692993
6S 29 96
82 29 88
69 29 77
N
N 1
N 2
STe
NE 1
68
82
2915
00 00
00 00
68
82
69
29 82
29 79
29 76
60
52
E Cloudy.
S 1 Cloudy, a litt. shower.
SE 1 1.11 Rain.
^77
29 78
29 79
52
50
4§~
1¥
29 81
29 82
54
IT
77
70
29 83
29 83
29 83
■33-W
29 80
29 79
6T
75
70
29 79
29 78
29 78
29 79
29 80
29 85
29 88
29 88
29 90
"5T
75
65
39 90
29 90
29 90
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Cloudy,
ClouHyT
Clear.
Clear.
ClearT"
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
2 0.10 R;
N
NE
NE
NNE
E
S W
s w
s w
w
w
NW
WW
N W
N W
NW
NW
NW
OCTOBER.
Grey clouds.
Grey clouds.
Cloudy.
"ain.
Cloudy.
loudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clearing up.
Cloudy.
Overcast.
Lt. elds, with sunsh.
Hazy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clouds with moonsh.
Cloudy, damp 8c coldT
Cloudy.
Clearing up.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear,
Clear.
Clear.
Serene.
Days.
hours.
4}. 3. 9.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Thurs.
17
Friday
18
Satur.
19
Sunday
20
Mon.
21
Tues.
22
Wed.
23
Thurs.
24
Friday
25
Satur.
26
Sunday
27
Mon.
28
Tues.
29
Wed,
30
Thurs.
31
49. 29 92
72 29 89
56 29 87
47. 29 85
70 29 85
62 29 84
29 82
N W
N
N
Str. In.
N
N W
N W
60
76
69
29 82
29 83
66 29 64
75 29 84
64 29 85
55 29 94
80 29 94
65 29 94
60 29 94
82 29 94
65 29 94
55 29 94
82 29 94
65 29 96
68 29 99
81 29 99
73 30 00
66 30 01
80 29 95
71 29 94
76
63
29 90
29 86
29 85
47 29 84
66 29 83
56 29 82
45 29 66"
67 29 85
52 29 86
W
W
s
W
NW
n"W~
N W
N
S 1
SE I
sw
NW:E1
NW
NE
NE 1
NE
NE
45 29 99
71 29 99
56 30 05
iA son
68 30 08
50 30 07
NE
NE
NE
NE
NE
45 30 06
67 30 00
50 29 98
NE
NE
NE
1799.
State of the weather.
Clear.
Clear.
t Light clouds.
ight clouds.
Light clouds.
Clear.
Light clouds.
Clear.
Light clouds.
FoggyT
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Fine.
Fine.
Fine.
Fine.
Fine.
Fine,
Clear.
Clear.
little cloudy.
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Cloudy, sun at interr..
Dim star light.
Clear.
Clear.
Some light clouds.
Dim star light.
Blue fog. ~"
Clear & dry.
Blue fog, dry.
Clear! =
Clear.
Fine.
Fine.
Clear.
Blue fog.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear,
A few clouds.
Clear.
REMARKS.
10th« Cabbages begin to head ; and green peas in season.
Digitized by
Google
20
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
HOOKS.
5. 3. 9.
WINDS.
70
>
NOVEMBER.
HO
5.
Th.
W
78
67
URS.
3. 9.
WINDS.
>
as
In.
1799.
Days.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Days.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
State of the weather.
Friday
1
46
66
69
29 97
29 9*
29 95
NE
E
1
Grey clouds.
Sunshine.
Duskish.
Satur.
16
$0 63
30 01
30 00
SW I
Clear.
Some clouds.
Some clouds.
Satur.
2
66
74
66
29 94
29 93
29 92
SE
SE
E
1
Cloudy.
Dull heary atmosph.
Duskish.
Sun.
17
6*
76
71
29 98
29 86
29 86
S
S 2
S 0.01
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Rain.
5unday
3
60
63
56
29 96
29 97
29 93
N
N
2
Foggy, drops of rain.
Cloudy foggy & damp,
Duskish.
Mon.
18
45
53
45
30 07
30 07
30 07
S W:N 2
N
N
Driving grey clouds.
Clearing up.
Clear.
Mon.
4
45
68
ST
29 82
29 82
29 83
NW
NW
1
Clear.
Some clouds,
Duskish,
Tues.
19
25
57
41
30 12
30 10
30 08
NW 1
W
Very fine.
Fine.
Fine.
Tues.
5
54
73
52
29 84
29.86
29.87
NW
NW
NW
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
20
31
57
34
30 07
30 07
30 09
w
W 1
w
r'ine.
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Wed.
6
64
65
63
29 89
29 90
29 90
KE
NE
NE
N W~"
N W
N W
NW~
NW
N W
0.02
1
Cloudy, some rain.
Sunshine.
Dark.
Thurs.
21
37
65
53
30 09
30 09
30 09
w
W 1
w
Clear.
Light clouds.
Clear.
Thurs.
7
61
65
63
29 90
29 91
29 92
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
22
42
68
40
30 07
30 04
30 05
w
w
Light clouds.
Light clouds.
Clear.
Friday
8
61
64
51
29 90
29 89
29 89
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
23
40
78
65
30 00
29 95
29 90
w
W 1
E
Light clouds.
Light clouds.
Light grey clouds.
Satur.
9
46
67
58
29 89
29 88
29 88
N W
NW
N
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sun.
24
65
69
56
24 76
29 76
29 78
E 1 6.12
E 1
SE 0.40
Light rain.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Sunday
10
45
67
47
29 88
29 87
29 87
NW
NW
NW
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
25
42
54
48
30 00
30 00
30 05
NE
Clear.
Clear.
Some clouds.
Mon.
11
54
65
54
29 88
29 88
29 90
nE
NE
1
Clear.
Blue fog.
Fog.
Tues.
26
41
SS
41
36 05
30 00
29 99
w
Cloudy.
Clear.
Clear.
Tues.
12
41
54
40
30 13
30 07
30 07
N
N
1
1
Clear.
Fine.
Clear.
Wed.
27
41
51
49
29&
29 99
29 99
w
W 1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
13
31
60
51
30 00
29 98
29 94
NW
ss
SE
1
1
Very clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
28
49
60
38
36 66
30 00
30 00
NW
NW
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
14
46
71
62
46'
59
& 9$
29 99
29 99
30 06
30 06
30 05
SW
SW
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
29
2d
50
34
36 or
30 02
30 03
N W
NW 1
N W
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
15
SW
1
Very clear.
Very clear.
Very clear.
Satur.
30
26
44
50
30 05
30 00
29 80
NW
NE 1
Clear.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Digitized by
Google
MAJMB IN THE MISSISSIPPI TERRITORY.
21
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
WIND*.
3
DECEMBER.
HOURS.
5. 3. 9.
WINDS.
*
>•
3
1799.
I>AY8.
Th.
Bab.
Pts.
St*.
lie.
State of the weather.
Days.
Th.
Bak.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Sun.
1
50 »W
61 29 66
60 29 63
E
E
1 0.12
1
1.72
Fine rain.
Rain,
Rain,
Tues.
17
50
44
37
29 93
29 93
29 92
N
NE
E
1 0.72
1
Rain.
Rain.
Rain.
Mon.
2
60 29 63
56 29 78
55 29 78
E
N
N
0.02
Small rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
18
37
42
-4-
29 83
29 84
29 84
SE
SE
SE
1 0.63
1
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
3
51 »te"
63 29 85
50 29 82
NE
NE
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
19
39
43
42
29 85
29 86
29 88
SE
SE
N.
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
4
65 2971
56 29 71
NE
E
Cloudy.
Clouds & sunshine*
Cloudy.
Friday
20
59
40
39
2$ 86
29 88
29 88
N
N
N
1 0.11
Cloudy & drizzly.
Cloudy & rain.
Clearing up.
Thur.
5
64 29 71
71 29 68
55 29 64
E
E
1
1 0.61
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Satur.
21
37
42
33
30 00
30 00
29 99
NW
1
Cloudy.
Clearing up.
Some clouos.
Friday
6
"4d 29 74
50 30 00
42 30 00
NW
NW
NW
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sunday
22
29
50
40
29 96
29 95
29 93
SB
SE
1
Light clouds.
Clouds & sun.
Clear.
Satur.
7
32 30 12
59 30 00
45 30 00
35 30 00
55 29 88
49 29 80
n W
N W
N W
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
23
31
44
35
29 96
30 00
30 00
N
N
N
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sim.
8
N
NE
NE
1
Clear.
Cloudy.
Clear.
Tues.
24
26*
53
38
30 00
30 00
30 00
NW
NW
NW
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
9
38 29 76
66 29 76
63 29 75
E
E
SE
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Wed.
25
"35|
55
37
30 16
30 00
29 95
nW
NW
E
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Tues.
10
"64 59 H
74 39 73
71 29 72
S
S
SE
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Moon shine.
Thurs.
26
47
55
47
29 90
29 90
29 90
SE
SE
NE
1
Cloudy.
Some clouds.
Duskish.
Wed.
11
43 *72
40 29 80
37 29 80
SE
SE
S
1.24
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
Friday
27
48
58
54
24 66
29 81
29 80
E
E
E
1
Clouds & sunshine.
Cloudy.
Rain.
Thur.
12
35 £9 60
37 29 70
32 29 80
NW
NW
NW
1
Snow diss, on the gr
Cloudy.
Clear.
Satur.
28
59
49.
45
29 84
29 90
29 95
SE
SE
SE
9.61
1
Clearing up.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
13
26 29 85
5»l 29 87
42 29 88
N W
NW
N W
1
Clear.
Clear.
Fine.
Sunday
29
40
35
29 97
29 98
30 00
NW
N W
N W
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
14
29 30 03
58 3003
63 30 97
NW
NW
1
Very fine.
Fine.
Fine.
Mon.
30
Tues.
31
24
45
28
"2S~
52
42
30 11
30 12
30 12
30 00
29 69
nW~
NW
NW
1
1
Clear,
Clear.
Clear.
Sun.
15
41 30 05
55 30 02
45 3000
N
Clear.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
N
NE
E
1
Clear.
Clear.
Cloudy.
Mon.
16
46 29 95
66 29 93
65 29 92
N
N
N
2
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Rain.
-•
•
-REMARKS.
UTth. Observed the Mistletoe in fruit
JE
Digitized by
Google
22
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION*,
*
HOURS.
6. 3. 9.
WINDS.
10
5
JANUARY.
HOURS.
6. 3. 9.
WINDS.
>
M
1800.
Days.
TH.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
Days.
Th.
Bar.
Pts-
Str.Iin.
State of the weather.
Wed.
1
44
48
35
29 60
29 70
29 87
E
£
E
1
2
1 0.30
Rain.
Rain.
Rain.
Friday
17
3*
46
35
»66
29 85
29 87
WW
NW
WW
1*
Clearing up.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
2
26
38
31
20 &
29 83
29 81
N "
NE
SE
1
Clear.
Clear.
Hazy.
Satur.
18
23
53
39
29 93
29 93
29 93
WW
NW
N
dear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
3
21*
46
36
29 81
29 83
29 84
NW
NW
1.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sunday
19
28
61
51
29 94
29 95
29 96
WW
NW
N
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
4
30
55
39
29 90
29 95
30 00
N W
N W
N W
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
20
34
64
54
29 96
29 96
NE
NE
1
Clear.
Some clouds.
Clear.
Sunday
5
&
55
44
29 97
29 94
29 91
W W
N W
1
Tues.
21
34
57
46
29 96
29 95
29 94
E '
E
E
1
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Star light.
Mon.
6
33
66
53
29 90
29 80
29 74
N
SE
SW
1
Some clouds.
Clouds & sun.
Clear.
Wed.
22
35
60
57
20 64
29 80
29 80
E
E
E
6.65
l
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
7
42
55
36
29 80
29 83
29 85
SW
1
Clear.
A little cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
23
36
58
55
29 74
29 74
E
E
E
0.05
1
0.20
ftain.
Cloudy & light rain.
Rain.
Wed.
8
45
55
44
30 05
30 05
30 05
W
1
Clearing up.
Clouds & sunshine.
Clouds & sunshine.
Friday
24
45
46
40
id 86
29 82
29 84
NE
N
N
0.10
1
1
Rain.
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Thurs.
9
46
45
34
30 65
30 05
30 04
N
N
1
Clouds & sunshine.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
25
30
47
47
29 86
29 86
29 86
N
NE
NE
1
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Friday
10
30
40
29
30 05
30 04
29 94
NW
NW
N
1
Clear.
Very fine.
Clear.
Sunday
26
40
54
49
29 88
29 88
NE
NE
NE
1
1
1
Cloudr.
Drizzly.
Drizzly.
Satur.
11
23
47
41
29 95
29 96
29 96
nW
N W
N W
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
27
45
48
48
29 99
30 07
W
N
N-
1
1
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clearing up.
Sunday
12
33
49
42
$9 96
29 96
29 96
NW
NW
N
1
1
Clear.
Clear,
Clear,
Tues.
28
36
52
42
30 08
30 10
30 10
N
N
N
1
1
Clear.
SmaD clouds.
Clear.
Mon.
13
32
63
46
29 97
29 98
29 99
nW
NE
N .
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed.
29
'33
53
45
30 12
30 12
30 13
nW"
N
N
1
1
2
Clear.
Some clouds.
Cloudy 6c dark.
Tues.
14
36
66
47
29 99
29 95
29 91
E
E
E
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
30
35
47
41
29 §4
29 95
29 95
We
NE
E
2
1
Clear.
Clear.
Cloudy & dark.
Wed.
15
35
68
56
26ftft
29 80
29 74
E
E
E
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
31
32J
32
»«5
29 95
29 95
W
NE
NE
1
2
1
Snow,
Snow.
Rain.
Thurs.
16
U
60
45
&74
29 74
29 74
E
E
E
0.62
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
REMARKS.
31st. As the rain fell it froze, adhering to the branches of the trees in beautiful icicles, resembling some tzees in blos-
som : Many large limbs were broken down in the night and following day, by the weight of the ice.
Digitized by
Google
RECAPITULA TION.
THERMOMETEE.
BAfiOMETER.
RAIN.
p-3
2.?
Greatest
height.
Least
height.
Mean
height.
Deo.
Dec.
Dec.
Inches.
Inches.
Inches.
Inches-
February.
75
19*
47}
30 25
29 53
29 759
9 125
March.
76
29
51}
30 24
29 53
29 928
3 84
April
86
37
67}
30 00
29 51
29 772
2 970
May.
87
54
73
30 04
29 63
29 871
0 81
June.
92
65
79
30. 02
9 79
29 888
2 84
July.
92
70
79}
29 98
29 78
29 862
2 13
August.
90
65
73}
29 99
29 77
29 857
3 86
September.
90
62
7 S\
29 95
29 63
29 712
4 855
October*.
85
44
65*
30 11
2? 76
29 510
1 71
November.*
78
26
**i
30 13
29 76
29 966
0 55
December.
68
24
46*
30 16
29 63
29 970
578
1800, January.
66
21*
43*
i
30 13
29 60
29 900
1 30
Whole year.
92
19}
63f
30 25
29 51
29 833
39 770
Digitized by
Google
22
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATION*,
*
HOURS.
6. 3. 9.
WINDS.
10
5
JANUARY.
bo urns.
6. 3. 9.
WINDS.
>
M
1800.
Days.
TH.
Bar.
Pts.
Str.
In.
State of the weather.
DATS.
Th.
Bar.
Pts.
Stb.JIn.
State of the weather.
Wed.
1
44 29 60
48 29 70
35 29 87
E
£
E
1
2
1 0.30
Rain.
Rain.
Rain.
Friday
17
3* 2060
46 29 85
35 29 87
WW
NW
N,W
1*
Clearing up.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
2
26 20 $4
38 29 83
31 29 81
N "
NE
SE
1
Clear.
Clear.
Hazy.
Satur.
18
23 29 93
53 29 93
39 29 93
WW
NW
N
Clear.
(Hear.
Clear.
Friday
3
24 29 81
46 29 83
36 29 84
NW
NW
1.
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Sunday
19
28 29 94
61 29 95
51 29 96
KW
NW
N
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
4
30 29 90
55 29 95
39 30 00
N W
N W
N W
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Mon.
20
34 £0 06
64 29 96
54 29 96
NE
NE
1
Clear.
Some clouds.
Clear.
Sunday
5
34 29 07
55 29 94
44 29 91
tf W
N W
1
Clear..
Clear.
Clear.
Tues.
21
34 2996
57 29 95
46 29 94
£
E
E
1
Some clouds.
Cloudy.
Starlight.
Mon.
6
33 29 90
66 29 80
53 29 74
N
SE
SW
1
Some clouds.
Clouds & sun.
Clear,
Wed.
22
35 20 64
60 29 80
57 29 80
E
E
E
0.65
1
Rain.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Tues.
7
42 29 80
55 29 83
36 29 85
SW
1
Clear.
A little cloudy.
Cloudy.
Thurs.
23
36 20 74
58 29 74
55 29 74
E
E
E
0.05
1
050
Rain.
Cloudy & light rain.
Rain.
Wed.
8
45 30 05
55 30 05
44 30 05
W
1
Clearing up.
Clouds & sunshine.
Clouds & sunshine.
Friday
24
45 29 80
46 29 82
40 29 84
NE
N
N
0.10
1
1
Rain.
Cloudy,
Cloudy.
Thurs.
9
40 30 05
45 30 05
34 30 04
N
N
1
Clouds & sunshine.
Clear.
Clear.
Satur.
25
30 29 86
47 29 86
47 29 86
N
NE
NE
1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Friday
10
30 30 05
40 30 04
29 29 94
NW
NW
N
1
Clear.
Very fine.
Clear.
Sunday
26
Mon..
27
4ti 2987'
54 2988
49 29 88
45 29 92
48 29 99
48 3007
NE
NE
NE
1
1
1
Cloudy.
Drizzly.
Drizzly.
Satur.
H
23 29 95
47 29 96
41 29 96
N W
N W
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
N
N-
1
1
' 1
Cloudy.
Cloudy.
Clearing up.
Sunday
12
& $0 06'
49 29 96
42 29 96
NW
N
1
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Tues.
28
36 30 08
52 30 10
42 30 10
N
N
N
1
1
Clear. "
Small clouds.
Clear.
Mon.
13
32 29 97
63 29 98
46 29 99
nW
NE
N .
1
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Wed,
29
33 30 12
53 30 12
45 30 13
nW"
N
N
1
1
2
Clear.
Some clouds.
Cloudy fedark.
Tues.
14
36 29 00
66 29 95
47 29 91
E
E
E
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Thurs.
30
35 29 05
47 29 95
41 29 95
**E
NE
E
2
1
Clear.
Clear.
Cloudy & dark.
Wed.
15
55 208ft
68 29 80
56 29 74
E
E
E
Clear.
Clear.
Clear.
Friday
31
20 20 05'
324 29 95
32 29 95
NE
NE
1
2
1
Snow,
Snow.
Rain.
Thurs.
16
54 20 74
60 29 74
45 29 74
E
E
E
0.62
Cloudy.
Rain.
Rain.
REMARKS.
31st. As the rain fell it froze, adhering to the branches of the trees in beautiful icicles, resembling some tiees is Msjg
som : Many large limbs were broken down in the night and following day, by the weight of the ke.
Digitized by
Google
*^c
^Jrtrj
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
[ 25 ]
No. III.
Description of a singular Phenomenon seen at Baton Rouge, by
William Dunbar, Esq. communicated by Thomas Jefferson, Pre-
sident A. P. S.
Natchez, June 30th, 1800.
Read 16th January 1801.
A PHENOMENON was seen to pass Baton Rouge on the
night of the 5th April 1800, of which the following is the
best description I have been able to obtain.
It was first seen in the South West, and moved so rapidly,
passing over the heads of the spectators, as to disappear in tne
North East in about a quarter of a minute.
It appeared to be of the skze.of a large house, 70 or 80 feet
long and of a form nearly resembling Fig. 5. in Plate, iv.
It appeared to be about 200 yards above the surface of the
earth, wholly luminous, but not emitting sparks; of a colour
resembling the sun near the horizon in a cold frosty evening,
which may be called a crimson red. When passing right over the
heads of the spectators, the light on the surface of the earth, wasi
little short of the effect of suii-beams, though at the same time,
looking another way, the stars were visible, which appears to
be a confirmation of the opinion formed of its moderate eleva*
tion. In passing, a considerable degree of heat was fek but
no electric sensation. Immediately after it disappeared in the
North East, a violent rushing noise was heard, as if the phe-
nomenon was bearing down the forest before it, and in a few
.seconds a tremendous crash was heard similar to that of the
largest piece of ordnance, causing a very sensible earthquake.
I have been informed, that search has been made in the
place where the burning body fell, and that a considerable
portion of the surface of the earth was found broken up, and
every vegetable body burned or greatly scorched. I have, not
yet received answers to a number of queries I have sent on,
which may perhaps bring to light more particulars.
F
Note. The above communication was accompanied by an account of the first invention of the
Tekgraphe extracted from the works of Dr. Hook.
Mr. Dunbar was induced to forward this extract to the Society, as he supposed it had been less
noticed than it deserved to be. But it was deemed unnecessary to print the Paper/ as it may be
seen in the works above mentioned, and is referred to by Dr. Birch in his history of the Royal So-
ciety. Vol. 4th, page 299.
Digitized by
Google
26 RUHES FOR FINDING THE EQUATION FOR THJ*
NO. IV,
A short and easy rule for finding the equation for the change of tfie
sun's declination when equal altitudes are used to regulate a clock
or othei- time keeper^ Communicated by Andrew EUicott Esq.
Read January 16th* 1801.
FOR THE FIRST PART.
FIND the Sun's longitude, declination, and the change
of declination for 24* at the time of the observation, like-
wise find the proportional part of the change of declination
for the half interval between the forenoon and afternoon ob-
servations, then take the proportional logarithm answering to
the change of declination for the half interval, (increasing the
index by 10,) from which take the log. cosecant of the
horary angle; to the remainder add the log. cotangent of the
latitude of the place of observation, and take out the minute
and second from the P. Ls. answering to the sum (10 being
deducted from the index) which converted into time will give
the first part of the correction and will be deductive in North
latitudes, when the sun's longitude is 0, 1, 2, 9, 10, or 11, signs,
and additive in the others; but the contrary in South latitudes.
FOR THE SECOND PART.
TO the P. L. of the change of the sun's declination during
t^e half interval, add the log. cotangent of the sun's declination,
from that sum deduct the log. cotangent of the horay angle. —
Takeout the minute and second from P. Ls. answering to the re-
mainder, which turned into time will give the second part of
the correction ; this is common to all latitudes, and will be
additive when'the sun's longitude is 0, 1, 2, 6P 7, or 8, signs*
and deductive in the others.
Digitized by
Google
CHANGE OF T#E SUNS DECLINATION &C. £7
Example.
Suppose the following equal altitudes were taken in latitude 39*. 56'.
AT. when the sun9s longitude was 4s. 15*.
A. M. 8h. 32' 20"— P. M, S» 32* 24"
Add , , 12 0 0
15 32 24
Peduct forenooa's observation. . ........ 8 32 20
2 J 7 0 4
half interval :... 3 30 2
^dd forenoon's observation 8 32 20
Sun's center on the meridian nearly ' 12 2 22
FOR THE CORRECTION.
The sun's declination answering to 4* 15p of his longitude
is nearly 16° 21', and the change of declination at the same
time about ltf 55" in 24 hours, or 2' 28" during the half in-
terval.
THEN BY THE RULE.
r
Change of declination during
half interval 2' 28" P. L. 11. 8631.
Horary angle 52° 30* log. cosec. — 10* 1005
1. 7626
Latitude 39° 56' log. cotan.+10- 0772
P. L. 1. 8398=*2yS6"*glO"24*fo
time, being the first part of the equation, and additive by tha
rule.
Digitized by
Google
28 RULES FOR FINDIKO THB EQUATION FOR THE
FOR THE SECOND PART,
Change of declination during the ,
half interval 2' 28" P. L. 1, 8531
Sun'sdeclination 16° 21' log cotan.+ lO. 532g
12. 3957
Horary angle 52' 30' log, cotan.— 9, 8850
P' L'~ 2.5107^0' S3"«2'f 1 2"in
time, being the second part of the equation, and deductive by
the rule.
Application.
Apparent time of the sun's center on) 12* 2' 22* 0*
the meridian by equal altitudes nearly )
First part of the equation + 10* 24w
Second do.. — 2. 12 +8. 12
Sun's centre on the meridian 12. 2, 30. 12.
No. V.
Account of an extraordinary flight of meteors (commonly called
shooting of stars) communicated by Andrew EUicot, Esq. as ex-
tracted from his Journal in a voyage from Nexv-Orleans to PhUar
delphia.
Had lGth Januarjr, 18D1
" NOVEMBEft 12th 1799; about three o'clock, A. M. 1
was called up to see the shooting of the stars (as it is commonly
called.) The phenomenon was grand and awful, the whote
heavens appeared as if illuminated with sky-rockets, which dis-
appeared only by the light of the sun after day break. The
meteors, which at any one instant of time appeared as nume-
Digitized by
Google
CHANGE OF THE SUN'S DECLINATION, &C. 29
ious as the stars, flew in all possible directions, except from the
earth, toward which they all inclined more or less ; and some
of them descended perpendicularly over the vessel we were in,
so that I was in constant expectation of their falling among us.
My thermometer which had been at 86° of Farenheits scale
for four days, fell to 56° about 4 o'clock A. M. and nearly at
the same time the wind shifted from the South to the N. W.
from whence it blew with great violence for three days without
intermission. We were in latitude 25° N. and S. E. from Kay
Largo, near the edge of the Gulph Stream."
I have since been informed that the above phenomenon ex-
tended over a large portion of the West India islands and as
far North as Mary's in latitude 30° 42' where it appeared as bril-
liant as with us off Cape Florida.
No. VI.
Improved method of projecting and measuring plane Angles by Mr.
Robert Patterson communicated by Mr. Andrew ElUcott.
Read 6th March, 1801.
SIR,
THE laying down, and measuring of plane angles, con-
stitute so great a part of practical, geometry, that any attempt
to render this operation, more easy and.acurate than by the line
of chords, or any other method now in common use, will not,
1 presume, be deemed altogether unimportant.
The lines of chords on our common scales are in general
very inaccurately divided, and even if we suppose the divisions
ever so exact it will still be impracticable to take off the mea-
sure of an angle to greater accuracy then a half or third of a
degree at most ; as it is impossible to apply either the nonius or
diagonal method of subdivision to a line of unequal parts.
But in the method that I am about to propose a line of equal
parts only is used, and therefore the divisions and subdivisions
may, by either of the above modes, be made as minute and acr
curate as can be desired.
Digitiz-ed by
Google
30 IMPROVED METHOD OF PROJECTING
The radius of a circle of which the choTd of any given arch
shall contain just as many equal parts of the radius as the arch
contains degrees, is easily calculated. The one I have chosen
is that of a circle of which the chord of an arch of 25 de-
grees shall equal 25 parts. This radius is 57^ very nearly.
Now it will be found that of this circle the chord of any arch
ynder 30 degrees will never vary more than TfT part of a unit
from the number of degrees in that arch.
Hence to lay down an angle of any given number of de*
groes and parts you have only to take, with a pair of compasses*-
from any line of equal parts, 57.*., and with this radius describ-
ing an arch, apply thereon, from the same line, the chord of
the angles required, if not exceeding 30 degrees; (calling each
part or equal division of the line a degree) and the two -radii
drawn from the center to the points of application on th^ arch,
will contain the angle required. If the given angle exceeds 30
degrees, first apply the radius (which equals the chord of 60 de-
grees) and then taking from the line of equal parts the chord
of the difference between 60 degrees and the given angle, ap
ply it on the arch from 60 either forwards or backwards ac-
cording as the given angle is greater or less than 60 degrees.
The measuring of an angle being only the reverse of the for-
mer will consist in describing an arch round the angular point
as a center with a radius equal 57£, and then applying the
chord of this arch comprehended between the two lines inclu-
ding the angle, if not exceeding 30 degrees, to the same line
of equal parts from which the radius was taken. But if the
an^le exceeds 30 degrees you must first apply the radius, and
then measure the ajrch of exces3 or defect above or below 60 as
above.
* Though the above method of projecting and measuring an-
gles will never be liable to an error of more than five or six
minutes of a degree, which in practice may be safely neglect-
ed, yet even these small errors n>ay, when thought necessary,
fre allowed for as follows —
From 6 degrees to 21) u ., ^ , r . . (more)
From 28-5— to 3o}ca11 the angle 5 mmutes | ^ j
than it measures and if this allowance be made the error will
scarce ever exceed one minute.
Digitized by
Google
AND MEASURING frl^ANE ANGLES. 31
The diagonal scale of 20 parts to an inch will be of a very
convenient size for the above purpose — On this the half inch
is divided into 100 equal parts, each of whicji will correspond
to S minutes.
But this method of subdividing lines of equal parts, though
no doubt susceptible of great accuracy, is yet attended with in-
conveniencies which it would be desirable to obviate— such
lines occupy so much room on the scale, that but few of them
can be inserted, and among such a multiplicity of crossing
lines, the eye is liable to mistake one for another.
The following method «which is only an application of the
nonius division, is susceptible of even greater accuracy and
minuteness than the diagonal method, and yet free from all its
inconveniencies. — Let each of the larger divisions of the. line
be subdivided into 10 equal parts, as the line of inches on the
common scale; then if you would farther subdivide these, say
each into 10 equal parts, you must set off before the beginning
of the line, a space equal to 1 1 of the smaller divisions, which
divide into 10 equal parts, numbering them backwards 1, 2,
3, &c. and then each of these divisions on the nonius will
exceed one of the smaller divisions on the scale just T"v part of
the latter.
The manner of using this nonius in laying down or mea-
suring lines is sufficiently obvious — Thus if you would take off
witE a pair of compasses 27-,^ you must extend from 6 on the
nonius to 21 (27-6) on the scale, if you would take off 57 T^
extend from 7 on the nonius to 50 on the scale &c. But a still
more minute subdivision may be easily made by combining
the nonius and diagonal methods together — thus if each of the
lesser divisions, both on the scale and nonius were, by diagonals,
sybdivided into 10 equal parts, then each of the larger divisions
would in fact be subdivided into 1000 equal parts, and yet
none of the lines, even on the scale of 20 to an inch, would
be less than ^ of an inch assunder. Such a degree of minute-
ness can however seldom if ever be necessary, and therefore
the use of the diagonal scale may be entirely dispensed with.
In Plate in. Fig. 7. the nonius occupies a space equal to 13
of the smaller divisions on the scale, and is divided into 12-
Digitized by
Google
32 ON THE THEORY OF WINDS.
equal parts; and therefore, if this line be used as a line of
chords, the nonius will divide the degree into 12 parts or 5
minutes.
Lam, with sincere respect,
your obliged friend
R. PATTERSON.
Andrew Ellicott Esq.
No. VII.
Sur La Thtorie des Vents. Par M. Dupont de Nemours.
Read July 17, 1801.
Le Vent a trois causes: la dilatation de Pair par la chaleur,
qui le chasse de l'endroit oft cette chaleur est £prouv£e : la Con-
densation de Fair par le froid, qui le rappelle vers le lieu 06 ie
refroidjssement se fait sentir; etla revulsion qui, lorsqu'un couraitt
d'air s'est 6tabli par une des deux causes pr6c6dentes, attire des
parties environnantes une nouvelle colonne d'air k la place de
celle qui a £t& mise en mouvement.
La rotation diurne de la terre produit toujours une dilatation de
Fair, qui est successive dans tous les points du Globe oil le soled
paroit se lever et oil il passe jusqu'a son midi : dilatation que
TechaufFement de&terres entretient plus ou raoins longtemps au
delA de midi, selon la nature de cesterres. Et cette dilatation
est toujours suivie d'une condensation que le soir et la nuit ra-
meaent en chaque lieu jusqu'i la renaissance du nouveau jour.
C'est ce qui produit le Vent d'Est g£n£ral, qui est plus sensi*
bje dans la Zdne ofc la chaleur est plus d£velopp6e.
La ligne de la phis grande chaleur se maintient depuis deux
jusqu'£t quatre degr6s de latitude au nord de celle que trace le
cours du soleil, en passant d'un Tropique a l'autre et sur
TEquateur, parceque le Pole et rH6misphere austral, entour£s
de Mers, ne sont pas.sisusceptiblesd^chau£Ebment que rh£mis-
phere boreal ob il y a moins de mer que de terre.
Digitized by
Google
ON THE THEORY OF WINDS. 33
Pendant PEt6 de Ph£misph6re bor6al, le vent d'Est aliz£
intend depuis sept jusqu'k douze degr6s au nord de son Tropi-
que; Et durantPEt6 de Ph6misphere austral, le m6me vent
n'excede son Tropique, que d'environ quatre degr6s; mais dans
les deux hemispheres la rive du vent alize varie toujours de
PEteaPhiver.
Ainsi, au solstice d'Ete de Ph6misph6re Septentrional, le vent
aliz6 s'6tend jusqu' au trente cinquteme ou au trente sixieme
degr6; tandis qu'au solstice d'hiver il atteint k peine le Tropique,
et que c'est vers Phemisph^re austral qu'il s'61eve alors au vingt
huitieme degr6.
Dans les Equinoxes, le vent aliz6 ne passe gu&re le Tropique
du Cancer que de quatre degres, et se tient en g6n6ral au
niveau de Pautre.
Le coup de vent de PEquinoxe qui n'est violent qu'au delk
des Tropiques, est Peffet de la dilatation de Fair sur Phemisph£re
06 le soleil passe, & de sa condensation sur celui qu'il aban-
donne.
Le vent aliz£, partant dans les Equinoxes de PEquateur,
dans les Solstices d'un Tropique ou de Pautre, & dans leur in-
tervalle de la transversale courbee que le cours du Soleil decrit
de PEquateur aux Tropiques, prend dans toutes ces directions
un developpement spiral, lequel tient principalement au plan
incline, & toujours diminuant, que chaque .hemisphere lui
4>r6sente,
Sur les terres, le vent alize se trouve contrarie dans sa course
par mille obstacles qui Pinlervertissent & paroissent quelque fois fa
denaturer. II reprend un point de depart lorsqu'il quitte chaque
continent; et c'estde ce point qu'il s'etale en eventail spiral jus-
qu'^ ce qu'il arrive au Continent oppose. — C'est ce qui le rend
plus resserre vers la cote occidentale de PAfrique qu'k la cote
Orientale de PAmerique, et ce qui le restreint encore a la cote
Occidentale de PAmerique pour Peployer du Japon alanouvelle
Caledonie et au dessus.
Tous ces Vents generaux ont des Remoux qui deviennent
egalement generaux, Aucun fluide ne peut perdre un courant
sans que ce courant ne presse les parties avoisinantes de sa rive
& ne les oblige de former, pour lui ceder la place, un contre
courant en sen* oppose.
G
Digitized by
Google
54 ON THE THEORY OF THE WINDS.
Dans le vent general iPEst, le Rcfroidissement cause par le
retour de la nuit aide beaucoup au Remou, en appellant sans
cesse Pair de sa rive k remplacer celui que la chaleur du jour
a rarefie et pousse en avant. Et m6me quand il n'y auroit pas
de refroidissement anterieur, le simple deplacement du fluide
ameneroit la revulsion qui, prise sur un air moins echauffe,
causeroit elle -mdme aux Heux que le vent chaud a occupes
un refroidissement posterieur; mais les deux causes, la condensa-
tion & la revulsion se combinent & se fortifient reciproquement.
Ce sont cllcs qui, dans la Zdne mGme des Tropiques produi-
sent la Brise du Soir. Elle est Nord Est au Nord du centre de
la chaleur, et Sud-Est k son Sud; et ne pourroit avoir un autre
cours. Elle est Pemanation du vent de Remou nord Ouest &
sud-Ouest, et la voie naturelle de la revulsion par laquelle une
partie de Pair de ce vent de remou s'en detache et se remet k
la suite du vent alize.
Vers le quarante cinquieme degrfe sud, au delk de Pinfluence
du vent de Remou, commence k regner un vent de sud Est;
appelle vers le nord par la douceur des climats temperes & vers
POuest par la rotation terrestre. Ce vent, dont Pinverse, qui
existe certainement sur Pautre hemisphere, ne peut s'y manifes-
ter aux navigateurs pour des raisons qu'on appercevra plus bas,
ce vent polaire du Sud se fait sentir plus loin iorsque le soleil est
sur le Tropique du Cancer. II est repousse de plusieurs degres
pendant PEte austral. On voit de & comment la ligne caloriste
qui serpente d'un Tropique k Pautre doit deplacer, et deplace
avec le Vent aliztf, les vents de remou & ceux de revulsion qui
en d£rivent et m£me les vents polaires*
C'est cette ondulation, ce retrait akernatif du vent alize, du
Vent de remou, du vent polaire,. qui les substitue Pun k Pautre
fc qui produit les Moussons. Elles en suivent regulierement la
marche dans PAdantique, dans le grand Oc6an, dans la mer
des Indes, entre la nouvelle Hollande, Madagascar et la pointe
de PAfrique au sud de Madagascar, comme aussi dans celle qui
forme le golphe de Bengale* le golphe Arabique, et qui s'etend
jusqu'a deux degres de latitude sud pr6s de Sumatra, et de trois
degres de la mdme lltitude pr^s de la cote de Melinde.
II est bien singulier qu'entre ces deux parties de la mer des
Indes oil la theorie generale est, ainsi que dans tout le reste du
Digitized by
Google
0» THfc THEORY Of WINDS.* 3$
monde, confirm6e par le fait, il se trouve une bande, d'environ '
dix degr6s en latitude et soixante et- dix en longitude, oil la
mousson totalement difffcrente paroisse d6termin6e par le Solstice,
au lieu de T£tre comme k ses deux rives par F6quinoxe, et
que ce soit pr6cisement dans les mois oil le soleii agit sur cette
bande avec plus de force, que le vent y quitte son cours naturel
et devient Nord-Ouest.
» La cause de cette unique anomalie dans le ctfurs des vents
sur toute la surface du gldbe est encore ignor6e. On pourroit
pr6sumer qu'elle tient a quelque chafne de montagnes extrfr-
mement hautes et tr&s escarpee en Afrique, qui presque per-
pendiculairement frapp6e en cette Saison sur la plus part de
ses plans par des vents fort 61ev6s, tels qu'ils le sont naturelle-
ment dans c£tte partie du monde, les repousse a peu pr6s contre
leur propre direction.
C'est bien en Afrique que doivent 6tre les plus hautes mon-
tagnes de la terre. Elles y sont indispensables pour nourrir
dans ce pays brtilant les 6normes fleuves qui en arrosent une
partie : le Nil, le Niger, la Zaire et les autres. Et si ces mon-
tagnes sont assez 61oign6es de la Cdte pour que P6chaufFement
des terres et des sables ajodtant h Tardeur de la Zdne, y ait
eleve le Vent alize b une grande hauteur, et h une plus grande
intensite, ce vent recontrant une muraille de glaciers ne peut
qu'y tourbillonner avec une . fureur qui vraisemblablement en
lance une partie jusqu'aux Moluques dans cette extraordinaire
mousson. Tout eftet particulicr et local, dolt avoir une cause
locale et particulars
Nous verrons dans un autre memoire comment celle qiie
nous supposons ici doit, outre la fonte d'une enorme quantite
de glaces, produired eifroyables pluies qui contribuefitbeaucoup
aux debordcments de tous les grands ileuves Africains.
Jusqu'a ce que cette mousson Africo-Indique efit arr&e nos
regards, nous n'avions consid6re les vents que tels que les mouve-*
ments diurne et annuel de la terre les produisent sur les piers
Jihres, et les produiroient sur les terres m6me si la surface en
£toit aussi unie que celle des mers. Mais nous voiei conduits
& observer l'effet des montagnes qui repercutant le vent, des
montagnes tr&s elevees et en grandes chaines-qui lui opposent
une vaste resistance, et celui des vallon? oil U s'engouftre, qui
Digitized by
Google
$6 ON TH* TftPOftY 6f WINDS,
dirigeat ton cours et ea augmentent l'impetuoske comme des
tuyaux de soufljet; JLffets quelquefois aftbiblis par celui des
antiques For&s qiji par^lep* le v$»t et amortissent son courroux.
Le rebondisseipent est toujours en raison du choc. II est terri-
ble dans les pays montueux : dans ceux sqrtout dont les augustes
Pyrainides s'61£vent au dessus de la temperature o& les arbres
peuvent croitre. II prend une multitude de directions sukant
les diverses f^pes que lui presentent la position et la configura-
tion extr£mement variees de ces montagnes, qui toutes jenvoient
la portion qu'^Ues ont recue du vest general d'Est et des vent*
dc Remou d'Quest, ou in6me du vent polaire* par un angle
de reflexion egal a Tangle d'incidence. Dans {'hemisphere
boreal presque entierement tencestre, ces corps sol ides brisent
sans ces6e le vent general dp Remou, et encore plus le vent
polaire. %
Le vent-est quelque fois repvoy6 d'un plan de montagne a
un aufa^e; il y a des ricochets. Et chacun de ces vents de
reflet a, qomwe les vents generaux, son remou plus ou moin*
sensible,
Cette repercussion dereete Q\iJmcoltf'eir des vents g£neraux pan
les montagnes, etles remouxaux quels elledonne lieu^produisent
presque tous les vents particuliers, on en connott fort peu qui
aient d'aitfres causes.
En; yoici cependapt uneespece tres digne de remarque; et
qui esfc dm? k la revulsion, a cette mdme cause qui parmi let
vents.geqeiftux feitnaftre 1& brise du. soir, et entoetient eonstam-
meut le vent polaire.
Ce veitf local de revulsion a lieu dans les pays tn&s sabloneux
et ou les rayoqs du Soleil dardent perpendiculairement. — Le
s^ble de ces pays brdles contracte durant le jour une chaleur
si grande et si durable que la nuit ne peut y retablir Pequilibre.
— Cette chaleur conservee ajotite le lendemain k celle que le
joyr ramdne. L'air y e$t done perpetuellement dans un etat
de dilatation 6t le vent ne pouvant prendre, qu'& une distance
assez eloignee de ces sortes de foyers, sa direction horizontak,
ypqinte en elevation. — Cela.forme pour ainsi dire descheniinees
o& Pair des mers environnantes est continuellement.aspire.
C'est de Ik que resultent le petit vent qui, tout pr&s de la cote
Ocqdentale de l'Afrique, porte a terre, etles Calmes que You
Digitized by
Google
ON THE THEORY OF WINDS. 37
trouve ensuite jusqu'k cent lieues et plus de cette <m£me
C6te entre les Isles du Cap Verd et le Tropique du Capricorne.
Le vent diurne ne replonge sur la mer, et n'y repousse Pair
de PEst a POuest qu'k cette distance du rivage. — Or, entre un
vent qui conduit une portion de Pair dans une certaine direction
et la rarefaction qui en fait revulser une autre portion en sens
inverse, il s'etablit absence de vent : il y a calme. — Deux vents
opposes qui se heurtent ou qui se croisent font tcmpdte. Deux
vents opposes dont la direction est parallele comme celle des
vents de remou avec leur vent primitif, forment dans la ligne
de leur collision des TourbiUons et des Trombes. — deux vents
opposes qui se fuient, laissept dans leur intervalle Vimrrwbiliti.
Celle ci n'a que des inconveniens pour les lieux et pour les
hommes qui x>nt a p&tir sous son Sceptre de plomb, heureuse-
ment qjj'elle est rare dans le monde et n'y est jamais complette,
les vents sont des bieiifaits, les Tempfites qu'ils occasionnent
sont Xxbs utiles. Elles reversent et distribuent sur la terre la ma-
tiere electrique dont le mouvement de rotation du globe avoit
charge les nuages. Elles enrichissent les continens de celle que
les vents generaux ont recueillie sur les mers. La reaction per-
petuelle des vents particuliers contre les vents generaux et leurs
combats entre eux mGmes ctoient le meilleur moyen de repartdre
sur les lieux habites ce fluide vivifiant qui fait si fortement
pousser les plantes* et qui donne aux animaux, a I'homme,
Pcnergie de Fame et du corps.
Aucun des vents particuliers n'est uniforme, jamais ils ne
soufflent ni exactement aux m6mes places, ni avec la m£me m-
ten3ite, II en cesje kchaque moment quelques \ms. Il en re-
nait a chaque moment quelques autres. Deux grandes causes
produisent cet efFet. „
Les variations qu'on a recorinues dans Pobliqultc de PEclip-
tique deplacent chaque annee la ligne de la plus grande cha-
leur.
Et chaque jour les points de depart de la chaleur, de meme
que ceux de sa plus grande activite sont changes dans tous les
* Cest une experience commune qu'un seul coup de tonnerre fait monter de troit ou quatre pouces
toutes leilaitues d'un jardin, Et iln'est penonne qui ne soit a portee d'observer sur soi meme combien
on eprouve de fatigue et de malaise dans le moment qui precede un Orage, Combien on recount de
forces et de Tit quand Forage a reverse surla terre l'air electrique et oxigcn^,
Digitized by
Google
38 ON THE THEORY OP WINDS.
lieux du globe par une autre Loi non moins admirable et plus
icceler6e de la g6n6reuse nature. Cette belle et simple loi que
les anciens avoient entrevue, dont Newton a d6couvert et
calculi le principe, et de laquelle d'Alembert a d6velopp6 Pen-
chatnement et les consequences, fait que le temps qui s'6coule,
depuis un Equinoxe de printemps ou d' Automne jusqu'& PEqui-
noxe suivant de la m6me saison, est de vingt minutes, vingt deux
secondes plus court que le temps employe par la Terre k faire sa
revolution dans son orbite. C'est ce qu'on appelle la Pricessum
des Equinoxes. On a cru autrefois qu'elle embrassoit un P6-
riode de vingt six mille ann6es pour ramener PEquinoxe au
m&me point de PEquateur. C'etoit une tres belle observation
dans le temps oil elle a 6te faite, avec les mauvais instruments
qu'on avoit alors. Et son exactitude doit Conner, quand on
voit que sur un si long espace de temps, Perreur n'6toit que
d'un cent quatrieme. Les meilleures machines et les observations
plus sures des modernes ont conduit k savoir que ce Pcriode
n'est que d'environ Vingt cinq mille Sept cent cinquante ans.
Mais il n'en r&ulte pas moins de ce beau et curicux ph6no-
mine que durant vingt cinq mille Sept cent cinquante ans le Solefl
n'a jamais son lever ni son midi k la m6me place, et qu'il ne se
trouve jamais dans le m£me lieu a la m£me hcure d'un bon
Chrono?nctre. 11 y a tous les jours pour chaque lieu une petite
avance.
Ainsi Pondulation de PEcliptique et la Pr6cession des Equi-
noxes, combinant leur influence, font que e'est perpetuellement
sur des lieux diff6rents, k des heures diff£rentes, que le Soleil
fait eprouverk Pair atmospherique delaTerre Pimpulsion donh£e
par son lever et par son midi; qu'il lance sachaleurcroissunte;
et sa plusgi^ande chaleur; qu'il pousse avec elle le vent alize, et
que la spirale de celui ci determine son Remou.
Le point de depart du ventalize variant ainsi en chaque lieu
chaque matin, et sa plus grande vivacite chaque midi, les faces
immobiles des montagnes en sont necessairement frappees cha-
que jour sous un angle different. Tous les vents particuliers de
reflet direct, de ricochet, etde remou, changentdonc inevitable-
ment chaque jour leurs angles, leursdirectious, ieurs croisemens*
II n'y a pas un point de la Terre qui n'ait successivement ct
diversement part a la distribution et au renouvellement des dif-
ferentes esp^ces d'airs et de tousles meteores qui enresultent.
Digitized by
Google
ON THE THEORY OF WINDS. 39
II n'y a par consequent pas une espece d'animal ou de plante -
qui n'en profite au moins alternativement.
Quelques Savants ont paru ecrire, ont dit plus ou moins seri-
eusement, qu'on pourroit- prevoir les varfetes de ces vents, et
celles des temperatures qui s'y trouvent liees, si Ton avoitpour
chaque lieu une suite d'observations meteorologiques qui em-
brass&t tous les jours compris dans le Periode de la Precession
des Equiuoxes, et qu'alors, d'apres Texperience de ce qui se ser-
oit passe a pareil jour dans le periode precedent, il deviendroit
possible d'annoncer le temps qu'il feroit & le vent qui souffler-
oit chaque jour semblable du Periode suivant en chaque lieu,
Mais pour realiser une telle hypoth&se, il faudroit d'abord que
les variations dans Tobliquite de PEcliptique accomplissent leur
revolution pendant le mdme temps que la precession des Equi-
noxes; or celan'est pas: leur marche est beaucoup pluslente.
Et il faudroit encore que durant ce periode de vingt cinq millc .
sept cent cinquante ans, il n'y e&t aucune montagne abimee,
aucun Volcan ferme, ni eteint, aucun rivage de la mer avance,
ni recule, aucune grande for£t abattue.
Cependant nous savons que suivant des loix qui nous sont
encore inconnues, la mer ne garde pas constamment le m£me
lit. II nous est d6montre par les couches de la moyenne et de la
nouvelle terre, tantot littorales, tantot formees au sein des eaux
profondes, et se recouvrant Tune Pautre k piusieurs reprises,
qu'elle a d£ja fait un grand nombre de fois le tour du gldbe.
Nous connoissons beaucoup d'autres mutations, les unes dQes
au travail de la nature, les autres a celui de Thomme,nous pou-
vons douc6tre stirs qu'en raison m£me des rfegles tres constan-
tes qui dirigent sa course, le Vent, ses ravages, et ses avantages,
qui sont infiniment plus grands, varieront toujours.
II ne faut point inferer de la que les observations meteorologi-
ques soient inutiles, ni diminuer le merite des hommes estima-
bles qui s'y livrent avec un z&le, une activity, une patience
dignes d'eloges, elles servent a indiquer les rapports de Tatmos-
phere avec les maladies regnantes, et quelque lois avec Pabon-
dance ou la penurie des recoltes. Elles eclairent la physiologie,
L'economie domestique, et m^me Teconomie politique. Mais
elles doivent laisser aTaJmanach de Li£ge les predictions sur la.
pluie, le beau temps, et les vents de l'annee prochaine.
Digitized by
Google
L- 40 ]
No. VIII.
Extracts from a letter, from William Dunbar Esq. of the Natchez,
to T/tomas Jefferson, President of the Society.
Natchez, Aug, 22,1801,
Read December 18tb, 1801.
BY the present occasion I h^ve the honor of transmitting
you a monthly recapitulation of meteorological observations
for the year 1800; to which I have subjoined remarks calcu-
lated to convey some idea of the nature of our climate. — I
have also attended to a hint dropt in one of your letters respect-
ing the Mississippi, by preparing a short account of that river,
but my copyist having fallen sick, I am obliged to defer trans-
mitting it until next post.
I have some time since received notices of fossil bones dis-
covered to the west of the Mississippi, and lately an intelligent
French gentleman, Commandant of the Apelousas, informs
me, that at three 'different places of that country, bones have
been found which are supposed to resemble those of the big-
bone-lick near the Ohio, and at another place that lie is well
assured that in digging a well, a set of human teeth (la denture
d'un homme) have been found at the depth of 30 or 35 feet.
I have recommended to that gentleman to set on foot a diligent
investigation of those objects and if practicable to transmit me
specimens of the bones, particularly a jawbone with its included
teeth as little mutilated as possible. Should I prove so fortu-
nate as to acquire the possession "of any object worthy the at-
tention of the society I shall take an early opportunity of pre-
senting it. Mr. Nolan has formerly given me some intimation
of fossil bones of great magnitude being found in various parts
of New Mexico.
Your observation of a lunar rain-bow is entirely new to me,
but I have often observed a Phenomenon which seems to have
been overlooked by Philosophers; it is slightly noticed in
Brydone's tour through Sicily and Malta Vol. 1. p. 356. 2d.
Digitized by
Google ■
EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER* &C. 41
Edit. London. This curious and beautiful phenomerion miy
be seen every fine sumraertewemng' in this and perhaps in all
other countries* where serenity is united to a cloudless sky. R
is caused by the prismatic effect of the atmosphere upon thft
sun's departing rays. Soon after sun-set a belt of a yellowish
orange colour is seen to extend itself along th& eastern horizon,
this belt ascends in the same proportion as the sun descends,
being about one degree in breadth ; in contact with die fifsf,
appears a second belt below, of a dark blue colour, and about
the same breadth as the first, both belts being tolerably well de-
fined and of a uniform colour throughout: when the double
belt has risen a litde above the horison, the azure sky may be
seen below, and as the belts continue to ascend they become
fainter, until at length the prismatic rays meeting widi no va-
pors sufficiendy dense to reflect their colours, the whole pheno-
menon dissolves into pale celestial light; the belts disappear at
about 6 or 7°. of altitude. This phenomenon merits some
attention; it exhibits as upon a skreen that species of light,
which after a greater angular dispersion, arriving at the moon's
orbit, faindy illumines her disk during the time of a total
eclipse.
It would seem to result from the above appearances, that if
a prism were formed of atmospheric air, the solar ray would
be separated thereby into two colours only, a yellow orange,,
and a blue : it is known to opticians that the compound colour
of orange and yellow, and the colour which Newton calls indi-
go, comprise within themselves the seven primitive colours, that
is, united they ought to form white; we ought not therefore
to reject this effect of atmospheric air, because dissimilar to the
prismatic powers of such diaphanous bodies as are best known
to us; modern experiments have shewn that refracting bodies
possess very different dispersive powers; and when we reflect
upon the heterogeneous nature of our atmosphere, composed
of at least three ^permanently elastic fluids, with the adventi-
tious mixture of perhaps a hundred others, subject from che-
mical affinity to perpetual resolution and composition, disolving
at all times a great proportion of aqueous fluid, and the whole
pervaded by the electric fluid; shall we presume to doubt*
that nature has it in her power to compote a refracting body*
Digitized by
Google
42 EXTRACTS FROM A LETTER &C.
whose dispersive powers are equal with respect to the red,
orange, yellow, and green making rays, and though greater
with regard to the three remaining primitive colours yet perfect-
ly equal among themselves*
WILLIAM DUNBAR.
Thomas Jefferson, President, A. P. S.
Digitized by
Google
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS,
MADE by William Dunbar, Esq, at the Forest, four miles east of
the River Mississippi, in Lat. 31° 28' North, and in Long. 91*
3(y west of Greenwich, for the year 1800; with remarks on the
state of the winds, weather, vegetation, 8Cc. calculated to give some
idea of the climate of that country.
Natchbz, Aug, 22*1801,
Read December 18th, 1801.
MONTHLY RECAPITULATION.
YEAR, 1800.
THBBMOMBTBB.
BABOMBTBB.
BAIN.
If
f?
1-8
Greatesi
height.
Least
height.
Mean
height.
t
Deo.
Deo.
Dec.
Inches.
Inches
. Inches. Inches-
January.
68
21|
43*
30 05
29 60
29 90
1 1»
February.
72
25
42*
30 10
29 52
30 02
3 11
March.
78
28
584
30 00
29 38
29 79
1 53
April.
85
44
66J
30 07
29 65
29 62
29 84
692
May.
90§
61
72
29 95
29 76
394
June.
96
61
794
29 99
29 61
29 80
1 26
Jolj.
96
63
8I4
29 99
29 78
29 90
483
August.
96
70
82
29 99
29 71
29 86
035
September*
90
59
764
29 99
39 71
29 83
440
October.
87
36
66
30 29
29 78
30 19
040
November*
79
22
56
30 43
29 91
30 13
003
December.
75
12
474
30 30
29 74
30 05
300
Whole Tear.
96
12
<**
30 43
29 38
29 92
31 09
Digitized by
Google
\
[ 44 ]
REMARKS transcribed from the general daily Journal.
JANUARY.
THIS month has been attended with more regular con-
tinued cold than is usual in this climate, with a smaller pro-
portion of rain, which fell in moderate quantities on 7 or 8
different days; on the 31st. we were presented with a beautiful
appearance. As the rain and sleet felt, the branches of trees
were enveloped in a thin sheet of ice, and from every minute
protuberance or angle depended an elegant christalization,
which altogether produced an enchanting effect, giving to the
trees the appearance of the most resplendent blossoms. Many
large limbs >V€re brokeij dpwij with the weight of the ice.
FEBRUARY.
2d. This morning the ground is covered with snow, and
the trees beautifully spangled with ice. At 10 o'clock the snow
begins to melt away, although, the sun is yet veiled in clouds.
The SQ.Q3K to the depth of two inches is speedily thawed, in
exposed situations; but remains all day on dry grass, chips and
other bad conductors of heat, to the north of buildings, trees
&c buj no where on the-bare ground.
3d. Tliis morning^ the ground is white with snow, and the
trees compleatly glazed. One would: suppose himself rather
in Canada thajj in lat. 3 1 °. — The sun peeps otrt^ and- a moment
is granted to admire the most enchanting of pictures — The
eye is dazzled with the prospect of myriads of gems, beauti-
ful beyond imagination, with which the whole torest is deck-
ed, reflecting a comfritiation of the most vivid colours from
the facets of the icy ch*ystalizations---but another moment, and
all is dissolved. From the dreary depth of winter wfe emerge
at once to therenjpyment of the delkipus soffiies&.of a morning
in May. - " .
MARCH,
5th. J&xv Buckeye (horse^qjhesnut) andspice-wpod begin
to bud.
Digitized by
j
REMABKS TRANSCRIBED FROM
45
10th. Planted corn and rice.
12th. Dogwood displays its beautiful blossoms, as also the
red-bud. x
18th. Trees in general begin to shew their buds and blos-
soms, excepting the nut-bearing kinds, linden &c. — Planted
cotton the 22d. .
APRIL.
Continue to plant cotton daily. 7th. Good pasturage in the
wood-land.
lOthu Peas ripen — Hickory, Walnut and Chin quepin begin
to bud.* — 1 lth. Abundance of pasture in the wood-land. 13th.
Garden-peas gathered to eat. 15th. Roses blow. 25th. Wind-
sor-beans and Artichokes ripe. — Strawberries ripe since the
12th.
MAY.
5th. Irish potatoes begin to be fit to gather. 10th. Black
Mulberry ripe. Gathered ripe turnip and cabbage seed. 12th.
French beans fit for use.— 17th. Rye and wheat fit to reap—
The present is one of the most delightful months of the year,
being free from sudden storms, and agreeably temperate; it is
generally one of the driest months, but the present is an ex-
ception to that rule.
JUNE.
12th. Cotton begins to blossom and the weather becomes
hotter than usual at this season. When the Thermometer is
at 96°. under a gallery compleatly shaded, though exposed in
some degree to the influence of reflection from the bare surface
of the earth, if in such circumstances it be removed into a
deep shade, under lofty trees, at 3 hours P. M. it will fall to
91 or 92°. If suspended to a tree exposed to the full influence
of the sun-beams it rises quickly to 121°. — it perhaps might
have risen higher, but being unwilling to risk the bursting
of the Thermometer, as it is graduated only to 125°, I removed
it without farther trial. In a cellar under the house, dug 4£
feet into the ground, the Thermometer stood at 7 2°.-»— 15th;
Tender Indian corn fit to use.
Digitized by
Google
46 THE GENERAL DAILY JOUHKAL.
JULt.
This month yields a good deal of rain, — it begins to be
showery about the commencement of the month, sometimes
before; had not the course of providence thus ordered it, the
present and succeeding months would have become intolerable
from heat, and a period would have been put to vegetation;
but refreshing and cooling showers, which are almost periodi-
cal at this season, falling daily in some one part or more of an
extent of 20 or 30 square miles, render the mean temperature
of these two months much less than might have been expected
from that of the preceeding month of June, which is not tin-
frequently the hottest month of the year, though in the pre-
sent it is inferior to both the succeeding months; but it is re-
markable that much less rain fell than usual during the month
of August, the natural consequence of which is an increase
of temperature. I have anticipated the last observation res-
pecting the succeeding month as having an immediate con-
nection with the foregoing remarks.
AUGUST.
From the unusual heat of the season, the cotton harvest is
found advanced ten days earlier than in former years, and a
commencement was made on the 1 8th. to collect our valuable
staple commodity. In the beginning of the season while the
cotton is not yet abundant, a good labourer collects from 50 to
JBO pounds in the seed, but as the crop advances ttf greater
maturity and abundance, the task of able men and women
may be estimated from 80 to 140lb. which yields one quarter
clean cotton fit to be packed for market, when passed through
the ginning mill. The harvesting season may continue from
3 to 4 months; from which may be formed some estimate
of this very productive branch of agriculture.
SEPTEMBER.
This month is attended with a good deal of rain and intro-
duces the powerful influence of a second spring season upon
all vegetating bodies; the two grand agents, heat and moisture,
being now found in that due degree most favourable to rapid
Digitized by
Google
REMARKS TRANSCRIBED FROM 4?
vegetation. Seeds and grain which have been committed to
the soil, during the last and present month, start into life and
their organic parts are developed with a vigour unknown to
other climes. This is the propitious season for preparing and
perfecting the productions of the kitchen-garden, which are
to supply us with culinary herbs and roots, during the winter
and spring season.
OCTOBER.
The present is the most agreeable month of the year; its:
temperature is mild and refreshing, occupying the due medium
between the extremes of heat and cold. It generally sets in
fair during the first week or 10 days of the month, which-
continues for 6, 7 or more weeks — Nothing can be more fa-
vourable than this enchantipg season for the restoration of the
health pf the valetudinarian, who may have suffered from-
the autumnal intermittent, which generally attacks strangers,
soon after the river retires within its banks, about the end of
June or beginning of July, and which by the way does not
extend its influence beyond 4, 5 or 6 miles from the river
swamps, tho' probably when our forests, shall be cut down,
this annual visitant of our (otherwise) salubrious climate, will
penetrate farther into the interior. The cotton planter too has
cause to admire the dispensations of Providence, which facili-
tate the collecting a most valuable crop, which by an opposite
order of the seasons must be totally lost..
NOVEMBER-
The first half and sometimes the whole of this month con--
tinues remarkably fine; the present has been particularly so, a
few drops of rain having' fallen only the first day: about the
22d. and 23d. a north-west wind caused the thermometer to
sink below the freezing point, but it presently ascended again
and the weather continued mild to the end of the month, the
thermometer standing at mid-day from 60 to 70°. — The ewes
Begin to drop their lambs about the commencement of the:
month, and continue for three months.
Digitized by
Google
4S GENERAL REMARKS, &C.
DECEMBER.
The winter now being set in, the weather becomes variable,
and a considerable quantity of rain generally falls in the course
of the month. This year upon the whole has yielded less rain
than the year 1799 and the present month has produced less
than the same month of the last year by 2.78 inches. This
month has been particularly remarkable for a degree of cold
hitherto unexampled in the history of this country — on the
morning of the 12th. the thermometer was found sunken to
+ 12°; on that day it did not rise above the freezing point, and
next morning was at 17° — on that day it rose to 49#; and both
before and after was up to 72° — Cows begin to calve about
the commencement of the month and continue calving for 3
or 4 months. Mares are generally a month later in bringing
their young.
GENERAL REM ARKS respecting the wnds> weather, «7\
IT is with us a general remark, that of late years the sum*
iriers have become hotter and the winters colder than, formerly.
Orange trees and other tender exotics have suffered much
more in the neighbourhood of New Orleans within these 4 or
5 years than before that period; the sugar cane also has been
so much injured by the severity of the frosts of the two last
winters, as greatly to discourage the planters, whose crops, in
many instances, have fallen to one third or less of their expec-
tations. In former years I have observed the mercury of the
thermometer not to fall lower than 26 or 27°, but for a few
years past, it has generally once or twice in the winter fallen
as low as from 17 to 20°. and on the 12th. of December 1800
as above noticed it was found sunken to 12°. which has
hitherto no parrallel in this climate, indicating a degree of
cold which in any country would be considered considerable*
and probably may never be again produced by natural means
inlat. 314-°*
Digitized by
Google
CLIMATE &C, NBA* THS MISSISSIPPI. 49
As this apparent alteration of climate has been remarked only
for a few years and cannot be traced up to any visible natural
or artificial change of sufficient magnitude, it would be in vain,
to search for its physical cause. Doctor Williamson and others
have endeavoured to show that clearing, draining and cultiva-
tion, extended over the face of a continent, must produce the
double effect of a relaxation of the rigours of winter, and an
abatement of the heats of summer; the former is probably
more evident than the latter, but admitting the demonstration
to be conclusive, I would enquire whether a partial clearing
extending 30 or 40 miles square, may not be expected to pro-
duce a contrary effect by admitting with full liberty, the sun-
beams upon the discovered surface of the earth in summer,
and promoting during winter a free circulation of cold nor-
thern air.
The winds of this country are extremely variable in the
winter season, seldom blowing above three days successively
from the same point; the north-west wind brings us the seve-
rest cold. It may be considered as a general rule during
winter, that all winds blowing from the east of the meridian
bring rain, and those from the west dry weather; the east and
south east winds are most abundantly charged with moisture,
as the opposite points are always the driest; the north-east wind
during this season is moist chilly and disagreeable, but seldom
prevails for any length of time : the north-wind brings (though
rarely) sleet or snow. — After 2, 3 or 4 days of damp cloudy
or rainy weather, it suddenly clears up with a cold north-west
wind, which blows frequently with great force during the first
and sometimes part of the second day of the change, the nights
being generally calm ; after a like period of fair weather, of
which the two first days are clear and freezing, and the other
two fine mild and agreeable with a morning's hoar frost, it re-
volves again into the same circle of damp and rainy weather.
This may be considered as the general revolution of tlie win-
ter season, but with many exceptions. The frequent and ra-
pid changes in the state of the weather, during the winter in
this climate furnish an excellent opportunity of verifying the
vulgar opinion of the moon's pretended influence at her con-
junctions., oppositions and quadratures; but truth compels me
Digitized by
Google
50 DUNBAR'S REMARKS ON THE
to say (what probably may be said of many similar persua-
sions) that after a continued and scrupulous attention to this-
object, I have not discovered any such regularity of coinci-
dence, which might justify the reverence with which those
traditional maxims ate at this day received by all these whose
minds are not expanded by the lights of phdosophy.
With the month of February our spring season may be said
to commence and southerly winds prevail, as if propitious na-
ture was inclined to facilitate the operations of the husband-
man, by carrying ott* the superabundant moisture widi which-
the surface of the earth is drenched after the winter rains.
This salutary effect is much more apparent on tlie Hat lands of
lower Louisiana than with us. Those regular gales are also*
peculiarly favourable in facilitating the ascent of the commer-
cial boats, which at this season, with commencement of the an-
nual inundation" perform their yearly voyage to the Spanish
settlements in the higher parts of Louisiana.
As the spring and summer advance,, the winds blow chiefly
from between S. E. and S. W. with variations from all parts of
the compass. During the hot season, the winds are frequendy
remarked to follow the progress of the sun, being found at N.
£. or East in the morning and shitting, round, die away in
the evening at S. S. W. — The summer evenings are generally
still until between 8 and 9 o'clock when a line cool zephyr
sets in from the West or S. W. — It has been said that in the
lower parts of the territory near the Mississippi this refreshing-
nocturnal breeze blows from the East: hitherto correct obser-
vations have not been sufficiently multiplied in various parts
of the territory to furnish a satisfactory account of this object.
The month of June and about one half of July compose
the hottest season of the year. Daily refreshing showers of
rain commence in July and continue through August, which
diminish the excessive degree of heat that otherwise must
prevails this season. The weather continues showery through
September, but in October it setties fine, and there is yearly
almost without exception 6 or 7 weeks of the most delightful
season imaginable, the mean temperature being from 65 to 70*.
with variable winds from ail points of the compass.
Digitized by
Google
CLIMATE &C, NEAR THE MISSISSIPPI. 51
Before the close of November we are reminded of the ap-
proach of winter by a few cold mornings and evenings and
sometimes nipping frosts, which exhibit their destructive
power, first, in the vallies by killing tender plants, while those
on the adjoining hills xetain sometime longer their bloom and
verdure. This effect is to be accounted for by the greater
specific gravity of the condensed freezing air, which runs off
on all sides from elevated situations into the nearest vallies,
there forming a mass of great extent, while the hills are sup-
plied with air less dense and warmer from a superior stratum
of the atmosphere. The influence of this cause is so great at
the first approaches of winter that a difference of 10°. of
Farenheit's scale has been noted at the short interval of 3 miles
in the direction of East and West; one position overlooking
the great valley of the Mississippi 30 miles wide, while the
other was in the interior, environed by forests. On the morn-
ing of .the .13Jth, November 1799 the thermometer stood in the
fin* situation at 42°. and in the latter at 32°.
We are told that at Benares in the East Indies lat. 2S4.0. ice
is produced by natural agents artificially brought together,
sufficient for the purposes of luxury. Large excavations are
dug in an extensive plain, into which the condensed freezing
air is collected in a considerable mass, but which probably
might have formed upon the plain a stratum of a few inches
only, and consequently must have been speedily mollified by
the transpiration of the earth, without producing any effect;
but being thus accumulated into a body of considerable mag-
nitude it is found that in die stillness of a -fine night, water
contained in .shallow unglazed vessels, placed upon a stratum
o£*about a foot in thickness of some imperfect conductor of
heat, such as the stalks of Maize &c. on the bottom of those
excavations, is partially or totally converted into ice, according
to the degree of temperature of the atmosphere, while per-
haps the slightest hoar-frost is not perceptible on the natural
surface — perfect calmness is essential to the success of this
curious experiment; a moderate circulation of air counteracts
the laws of specific gravity, and restores the equilibrium of the
/Caloric in the adjacent strata of the atmosphere.
Digitized by
Google
52 DUNBAR'S REMARKS ON THE
The North and N. W. wind blows often with some severity
before the close of the month of November, shifting to the
East of the meridian with fogs and some rain : the fogs being
more remarkable in lower Louisiana and adjoining to the great
valley of the Mississippi. The winter now sets in with the
month of December and its duration may be estimated at two
months* although during its whole course* when the wind
continues for some time at S. and S. W. we enjoy a very
agreeable mild and some times warm temperature, the thermo-
meter often rising to 75«>. or more. Hence it follows that
our winter climate depends altogether upon the course of the
winds. South and S. W. winds involve us within a tropical
atmosphere corrected however by the accessions of cold which
we have received already from the North, aud which produ-
ces a most agreeable spring or mild summer temperature; the
productions of the garden now vegetate with vigour and if
long enough continued the fields assume a verdant hue — a
mild fall and moderate winter some times permit us to gather
from our gardens at Christmas^ gfpen peas and other summer
productions. But when on the othe« hand the winds Wow
from the N. W. and North we are at once plunged into the
rigors of a Northern winter; hence it is that tender shrub* and
plants are frequently destroyed here which might be expected
to withstand a more Northern clime. The human body, also
is extremely susceptihle of the sudden transitions which natu-
rally suggests the idea, that frequent pleuritic and inflammatory
diseases must be the natural attendants of our variable winter
climate, but experience demonstrates the contrary. Probably
the relaxation which the body undergoes during the extreme
heats of summer diminishes the oxygenation of the blood and
consequently renders it less susceptible of inflammation..
August and September are called the hurricane months^, and
I believe there never happens a hurricane of great extent Mid
duration at any other season* and this seldom reaches much
higher than New Orleans, sweeping along the sea coast Stormy
hurricanes, whirlwinds or tornados of small extent and very
short duration, happen at any season and from all points of the
compass. We ought perhaps to except the months of May
and October, least of all subject to sudden changes and which
Digitized by
Google
CLIMATE &C, NEAR THE MISSISSIPPI. 55
upon the whole are the most agreeable months of the year. Sud-
den gusts or storms of wind and rain generally proceed from
N. or N. N. E. and their , violence is only of a few minutes
duration, although in that short time, it frequently happens
that trees are torn up by the roots or snapt short off, houses
stript of their covering, fences thrown down and crops greatly
damaged and blown about in the air. — Since I have resided
in this country, two or three hurricanes only, of great magni-
tude, have ravaged New Orleans and its vicinity- Two of
them burst forth in the months of August of the years 17 70
and 1780; I was at New Orleans during the first of those two*
More than half of the town was stript of its covering, many
houses thrown down in town and country, no ship or vessel
cfrf any kind Was to be seen on the river, next morning. The
fiver which at this season is low was forced over its banks, and •
file crops which Were not yet collected, disappeared from the
fece of the earth. „ The forests for some leagues above and
below New Orleans assumed the dreary appearance of winter,
the woods dver large tracts were laid flat with the ground, and
k became impossible to traverse the forests, but with immense
labour on account of the multitude of logs, limbs and branched
wkh which the earth was every were strewed within the ex-
tent of the hurricane; which might be estimated at about 1 2
tittles chafe N&4h and South, New Otleans being in the centre
af its passage. The partial hurricanes which frequently travel
this territory do not merit the name and ought rather be called
WilirlVVmds, Which seldom last above 5 to 10 minutes, occu-
pying a nartrow *vfcih from 50 to 500 feet in width; whereat
dmt which I withessed at New Orleans was of some hours du-
ration; it continued blowing from the East or S. E. for two or
tiitfee hours with undescribable impetuosity, after which suc-
ceeded all at once a most profound and aWftil Calm, so incon-
ceivably terrific that the stoutest hekrt stood appaled and could
not look upon it without feeling a secret horror, as if nature
were preparing to resolve herself again into chaos,. The body
became totally unelastic and a disposition was felt to abandon
one'self prostrate upon the ground as if despair alone at that*
foment, could find abode in the human mind, entirely dives-
tW of ail energy. How is this extraordinary effect to be ac-
Digitized by
Google
54 DUNBAR'S REMARKS OK THE
counted for? It is generally believed by philosophers, that
hurricanes and perhaps the gentlest zephyrs are connected
with electrical phaenomina, may we then be permitted to sup-
pose that by the violent operation of natural agents (of which
we can form no conception) the electric fluid has been in a
manner abstracted from the central parts of the hurricane
X which we may consider as a vortex) and a species of vacuum
formed with respect to the electric fluid — hence that otherwise
unaccountable relaxation and dejection of spirits, similar to
(though infinitely exceeding) what has been observed of the
influence of the sirocco wind in Naples and Sicily upon the
human body and mind, no perceptible signs of electricity be-
ing discoverable in the atmosphere during the time x>{ its
blowing. — Happily the wind was arrested but for a short time,
by this horrid state of suspence, for in 5 or 6 minutes, perhaps
less, the hurricane began to blow from the opposite point of
the compass and very speedily regained a degree of fury and
impetuosity equal if not superior to what it had before ppsses-
sed. Floating bodies, which had been driven up the stream
with vast rapidity against the natural course of the river, now
descended with a velocity of which the astonished eye could
form no estimate, it rather resembled the passage of a winged
inhabitant of the air than that of a body born upon the more
sluggish element of water. Vessels were left upon dry land
or dashed in pieces against the shores. An American armed
ship being overset was precipitated into the ocean and never
more heard of; the officers and npen were chiefly saved by
leaping ashore, sometimes by t{ie assistance of rafts apd logs
of tnnber, watching the opportunity of the vessel impinging
against the bank as she darted from side to side of the river,
hurled along by the ungovernable fury of the torrent. From
every information I could procure, I believe the center of the
hurricane passed over the city of New Orleans, the general
progress of its course being at that time from about N. E. to
S. W. and as its first fury was felt in the direction of S. E.
nearly, and ended about N. W. it is evident that the circular
course of the vortex followed that of the sun's apparent diurnal
motion. — It is probable that if similar observations are made
upon all hurricanes, tornados and whirlwinds they will b,e fojind
Digitized by
Google
CLIMATE &C,. NEAR THE MISSISSIPPI. 55
universally to consistTbf a vortex with a central spot in a state
of profound calm, which spot will probably be greater or less
according to the magnitude of the vortex.
No circumstance occurred to me which might justify the
hypothesis of the celebrated Franklin who supposed the center
of a whirlwind or waterspout to be a true vacuum capable of
elevating water to th j height of 30 or more feet. It is by no
means decided * that those two phenomena are of the same
species. Whirlwinds are always perpendicular tq the horizon
and are,. I believe, never stationary: an intelligent friend of
mine once saw (what he supposed to be) a waterspout descend
from a low cloud into the Mississippi, it made a very consider-
able angle with the perpendicular and its inferior extremity
remained fixed to one spot during, the whole time of its ap-
pearance, the very gentle progress of the cloud seemed to
prolong the spout, so that at length it separated into two parts,
the interior division, which was by much the shortest, falling,
into the Mississippi, and the superior slowly ascending until it
became united to the cloud..
No. X.
Abstract of a communication from Mr. Martin Duralde, relative
to jossil bones, 8£c. of the Country of Apelousas west of the
Mississippi to Air. WiHiam Dunbar of the Natchez, and by.
lum transmuted to the. Society. Dated April l2A:th 1802.
Read Morch 4th. 1803-
THE Country of the Apelousas, although favoured by
the goodness of the soil and the salubrity of the climate, is
subjected to the disadvantage of not being furnished with
springs sufficiently permanent to supply the want* of the in-
habitants ahd their cattle; which renders wells necessary at
any distance from the rivers. In digging of these wells, which
are of considerable depth, bones and other articles have beea
discovered, some of which are ennumerated as follows.
At the widow Moreau's, a human scull, in a very decayed
state, was found at the depth of 30 to 35 feet below the sur~
Digitized by
Google
56 Duralde's communication
face of tlie ground. At Mr. Lewis Fontenot's, other bones
were found at the depth of 25 to 27 feet. Also at Mr. James
Dupr^s's at the depth of 1 8 feet; but in both these cases, they
were so much decayed, as to render it impossible to distinguish,
to what animal they belonged or even what bones they were.
At Mr. James Lafleur's, at the depth of 30 to 35 feet, was
found a piece of an Indian bowl, made of burnt shells, and ba-
ked after the Indian manner. M. Duralde in sinking a well
in his cow-yard found sound oyster shells, lying in an horizon-
tal direction, near to each other, at the depth of 22 feet. K
was also said that M. Fuselier of the Alacapas found the
horn of a Goat at the depth of 19 feet. Those of the above
discoveries which M. Buralde was not witness to, were attes-
ted to his satisfaction — and he supposes many others escaped
the notice of the workmen and proprietors.
About the year 1760 or a little after, some person was led
by chance to the margin of a small bay called Carancro and
observed there a large heap of bones; they were sound and
of an enormous size. He was struck with the discovery and
made mention of it; and as the news of it spread, the pub-
lic curiosity was very much excited. Their length, their size,
and above all one or two teeth, which were amongst them,
led the spectators to judge that this had been the entire skele-
ton of an Elephant. This soon became the generally received
opinion. They perfectly distinguished, the ribs, the verte-
brae, the scapulae, the tibiae, the thigh bone (which was
larger thao a ma&'s thigh,),and Jastly the hip boae, which had
a very distinct cavity for the reception of the head of the
thigh bone — M. Nerat the proprietor of the spot where
they were found, a man of strict varacity and residing near it,
declared that there were bones enough to load two, or at least
one very large cart; that he had taken, and during ten years had
made use ot\ the hollow of the hip bones, to press his indigo
in, that as well as he can remember there was one of the haunch
bones wanting, which forms apart of the eminence of the
bason, and that notwithstanding, it was so heavy, that it requir-
ed a very strong man to handle it.
Six years ago during the time of a great drought, Alexander
Fontenot perceived, and took up from the bottom of a brook,
Digitized by
Google
OK THE FOSSIL BONES, &C. 57
about five feet deep, an extraordinary tooth standing upright,
being part above and part under ground. The great size of
this, and a remnant of ivory which was found with it, indu-
ced the belief, that it had belonged to an Elephant, It was
already much decayed, and has disappeared from his yard,
after having been tossed about it, during three or four years.
The place was again thoroughly examined by directions of
M. Duralde, but without making any further discovery.
Mr. John Teston, a man of integrity, declared that about
15 years ago he found the remains of an enormous jaw-bone
in a brook on his plantation, weighing as he judged S£5lb. He
took it up, and shewed it to several persons, all of them un-
fortunately of little knowledge or experience in these subjects;
but, from a faint recollection of what had been discovered at
Carancro, they supposed that it must have belonged to an Ele-
phant He pointed out to M. Duralde the place from whence
it was taken, but there only remained some small pieces of
bone much scattered, none exceeding an inch in diameter,
and totally insufficient to lead the most intelligent observer to
any important conclusion. These two brooks are separated from
each other from 750 to 900 Toises, and distant from Carancro
about four or five leagues.
M. Duralde accompanies the above facts by the following
observations.
These bones, which were supposed to be those of the Ele-
phant, have been discovered, on the borders of brooks passing
through Prairies, in a clay soil at the depth of a few feet;
except those at Carancro, which were found heaped up on a
small point of sand, at the mouth of another brook of the
same kind as those mentioned, and which may have been
deposited there by the floods.
The inhabitants of this country think that the surface there-
of has risen visibly; because these marshes which were im-
passable to man and beast when they settled there, will at pre-
sent allow a tree passage over them even on horseback at the
end of summer and beginning ot autumn. This fact is
really so, and I believe there are two causes of the diminu-
tion of water; the one is the evaporation occasioned by the
sun, the other the travelling of the cattle; they wear the
Digitized by
Google
58 Duralde's communication
road and make a dust, which the rains carry off to these
places, by which the bottom becomes insensibly raised, when
it dries, and is hardened by the going and coming of these
animals. This, if I do not deceive myself, is the solution of
the problem; my opinion arises frbmthe inspection of certain
low places, which appear most certainly to have been moras-
ses formerly; for although they are now become firm and
solid, yet we can still observe the places of all the tufts of
reeds, with the intervals which have separated them, such as
we find them in muddy marshes. Whatever may be the cause
of this elevation, the nature of the soil warrants the opinion*
that it has not been caused by alluvions.
There is also an appearance in this raiige of country,
which is very common, but which continues to surprise me
every time I observe it; namely, the circular form of certain
marshes of different diameters upon the highest grounds. I
have not ascertained the fact mathematically, but the eye so-
well attests their regularity, that it seems as if art could
not have rendered them more perfect. These marshes are
not deep, and most of them dry up in times of great drought*
and the bottom deepens gradually from the circumference to
the centre. I have never observed them without endeavour-
ing to ascertain the cause of them; none other, equally satis-
factory, has presented itself to my mind, than that they were
cavities which have been thus excavated by some whirlpool, at
the time the whole surface was covered by water. I cannot
help avowing, even at the risk of being accused of temerity*
that the existence of these marshes, combined with the cir-
cumstance of finding these bones at such extraordinary depths,
and also with a tradition of the Alacapas (a neighbouring Indian
tribe) has almost convinced my mind that such a state of thing*
existed at some very distant period.
Digitized by
Google
I w 1
No. XI.
Observations made on a Lunar Eclipse at the Observatory in the City
of Philadelphia on the 21#, of September 1801, by Mess.
Patterson, and Ellicott*
Read Dec 18th, 1801.
The beginning of the eclipse, that of total darkness, and
the end of the eclipse, could, not be observed on account of
clouds; but the end of total darkness was observed as below.
End of total darkness as\ h f m
observed by Mr. Pattensonj 15 15 7 apparent tune
The telescopes made use of were both achromatic, and Mag-
nified about 90 times.
No. XII.
On the Hybernation of Swallows, by the late Colonel Antes. Com-
municated by Dr. Barton.
Read May 17th, 1802,
Philadelphia July 9th, 1801.
ABOUT 30 years ago, I was desired by Mr. Stettler,
vho lived in Frederick Township, (at the time in Philadelphia
county,) to lay off a level for the purpose of leading the water
of a spring upon a meadow. — The exact year I do not recol-
lect, but am positive it was in the month of February. — I be-
gan where the stream entered his ground, and before I had
proceeded far I struck a hollow about a rod square which
Digitized by
Google
60 ANTES ON HYBERNATION OF SWALLOWS.
was filled with wet mud and leaves. The labourers followed
my level, and dug the trench. On getting into the hollow
or pond, I observed that they direw up the body of a swal-
low. I took it up, muddy as it was, and having washed it in
the water, I put it into my pocket. In a few hours' I return-
ed to the house of Mr. Stettler, took the swallow and placed
it upon the wall of the stove, which was just warm. While
we were taking some refreshments, we were surprised by the
V chirping of the bird, which soon afterwards was flying about
^ the room, catching flies, and alighting from time to time upon
the furniture. From the time of laying it on the stove, to the
moment of its revival, was not more, I think, than about a
quarter of an hour. Mr. Stettler kept the s vallow in his house
till the weather became warm, and the swallows began gene-
rally to appear : he then gave it its liberty*
The stream, which was the object of my business /with
Mr. Stettler, was dry during the summer; but after a heavy
rain during the winter, and often during the summer, it flow-
ed over into the hollow, carrying into it the leaves and mud
which I found there, but did not flow through it. It had
been a very mild winter; — the swallow was buried perhaps a
foot, for the trench was no deeper; but it was certainly buried
below the frost. I did not observe in that place any other
swallows, the trench was narrow, and was carried near the
edge of the pond. I have many times since that period, seen
the swallows turned up out of the mud early in the spring;
although the particulars of these instances, are not so clearly
impressed upon my recollection. I have also often seen swal-
lows, especially martins, creep under the roots of trees on the
margin of creeks; 1 have then sought for them without suc-
cess, and believe that they were retiring for the winter.
FREDERICK ANTES;
Digitized by
Google
[ 91 ]
No. XIII.
Astronomical observations mddc at Lancaster f Pennsylvania, chiefly
with a w to ascertain the longitude of that borough, and as
a test of the accuracy with which the longitude may be found by
lunar observation; in a letter from Andrew Ellicott to Robert
Patterson.
Read January 21st, 1803.
Lancaster December 16th, 1803.
DEAR SIR,
IF you think the following astronomical observations of
sufficient importance, you have my permission to hand them
to the Philosophical Society. In making them I had princi-
pally two objects in view; first, the determination of the longi-
tude of this borough; and secondly, tBe correction of the theory
of the satellites of Jupiter, by increasing the number of obser-
vations on their eclipses. — The latitude of the place of obser-
vation is about 40° 2' 39'rnorthr.
Nov. 35th, 1801.
fimbs.
The observed times, and distances, between the sun and moon's nearest
Apparent time.
Means*
22 12 1 .
| 22 13 16 .
22 14 6 .
I 22 15 14 .
' 22 16 6 .
.22 16 53 •
22 14 3& .
110 29 0
110 28 20|
110 28 0 >
110 27 30 i
110 27 20 f
110 27 0,
110 27 52
add 15" for the error of the sextant.
37th, The observed times, and distances between the son and moon's nearest limbs.
Apparent tune.
i
h i It
23 19 20
23 20 19 .
23 21 10
23 21 45
23 22 17
23 23 0
3T5TT5",
o r a
88 11 10'
88 11 Oj
88 10 40^
88 10 20 i
88 9 50 I
88930
88 10 25
.add 15"for the error of the sextant.
Digitized by
Google
62 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
28th, The observed times, awl distances, betweenthe sun and moon's nearest limbs.
h I tt O * ft
24 77 51 20"
_ 2 24 7750401
Apparent time, J 21 3 13 77 50 20 Vadd 15'/ for the error of the sextant.
rr A M 3 51 77 49 40 f
4 37 77 49 20 !
21 5 39 77 49 0^
Means. 21 3 31 77 50 3*
121 1
121 2
.1 21 3
J 21 3
#21 4
\ 21 5
December 11th, The observed times, and distances, between the son and moon's nearest limbs,
h # H o / et
-2 42 39 80 29 20"
243 24 8030 0
k 2 44 11 8030401
ADDarent time. ^ 2 44 SS 803050 > add 15wfor the error of the sextant.
Fi^ >2 45 34 ..... 8031 Of
I 2 46 23 80 31 10 }
2 47 31 80 31 30>
Mean*. 3 44 57 80 30 39
12th, The observed times, and distances, between the sun and moon's nearestiimbs,
h i it <o t it
'l 28 36 92 48 20X
129 37 9248401 \
II 30 22 92 49 29 f
Apparent time, J \ 32 }o !! .'!.'» 50 20 >addl5"for tbeerrorof the sextant.
1 1 32 49 . . . ! 92 50 504
1 33 42 92 51 30 1
J 34 34 92 52 0J
Means. 1 31 39". . . . .9^ 50 3
The observed times, and distances, between the moon's western limb, and Aldebaran (<* Tauri,)
east of her. *
» / H o / «
'6 27 3 71 22 30*
6 28 14 ... .
I 6 29 14 ... .
Apparent time, < 6 29 56 71 21 30 V add 15" for the error of the sextant.
\ 6 31 15 ... . - - - r
6 32 16 ... .
. 6 33 5. . . . ___
Means. 6 30 9 71 21 29
24th, Immersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
12* 34' 27 " mean time, or 12* 34-' 13" apparent time. — The
planet and satellites well defined : — magnifying power of the
telescope 100.
Jan. 5th, 1802. Immersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter,
observed at 10* 15' 6" mean time, or 10* 9' 10" apparent
time. — The night fine and clear,— the belts and satellites well
defined: — magnifying power 100. *
Digitized by
Google
MADE AT LANCASTER. 63
25th, Immersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
9* 5' 7" mean time, or 8* 52' 19" apparent time.
Emersion of the 4th satellite of Jupiter, observed at 1 Ih 3<2'
42" mean time, or 11* 19' 53" apparent time. The night
was remarkably fine, — the belts and satellites perfectly defined :
— magnifying power 100.
February 6th, Immersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, ob-
served at 9k 5 1' 46" mean time, or 9* 37' 15" apparent time: —
The night a little hazy: — magnifying power 100.
9tb, The moon occulted a number of stars in the northern
part of that cluster called the Pleiades : the occultations of
the three largest were particularly attended to. — The immer-
sons were all instantaneous; but the emersions could not be ob-
served on account of the houses on the west side of the street.
Not having either the places* or characters of die stars obser-
ved, I have in Fig. 3d, Plate III, laid down the relative posi-
tions of the principal ones in the cluster, as nearly as I could
do it without the aid of any other instrument than my telescope,
and numbered those that were occulted.
h ' " h / u
No. I immersed at 10 23 54> 10 9 16}
2 - • do. - - 10 31 38Cmeantune,orat 10 17 0> apparent time.
3 - - do. - - 10 53 23 . 10 38 24 5
In the diagram, A B C E represents the dark part of the
moon's disk, and A E C D the enlightened part. When the
enlightened part was kept out of the field of the telescope,
the limb of die dark part was sufficiently visible, and well
defined; by which I was enabled, without fatiguing my eye,
to trace the approach of the moon to the stars, and pay that
close attention so very necessary at the instant of the occulta-
tion. The star No. 1 is very small, and seldom visible with-
out the aid of a glass. In each case the star appeared for a
few seconds well defined on the edge of the moon's disk. —
Various theories have been devised to account for this singular
phenomenon, but I am inclined to believe with La Lande, that
it is merely an optical illusion*.
* U arrive souvent dans les eclipses d' etoiles ou de pianettes par la lime, que i'astre e*clipse parok
tout entier pendant quelques secondes sur le disque £dair6 de la lune ; on a attribuc ce phenomene
a l*atmospbere de la lune, et M. Euler enterprend de prouver son existence par les eclipse* de solcQ
Digitized by
Google
64f ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
17th, About 9h 14' 9" mean time, or 8h 59' 47" apparent
time, the 1st satellite of Jupiter disappeared behind the body
of the planet : Jupiter being too near the opposition for the
eelipse to be visible.— Observations of this kind cannot be made
with great accuracy.
March 10th, Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, obser-
ved at 12" 26' 10" mean time, or 12h 15' 41" apparent time :
—night remarkably fine, magnifying power of the telescope
100.
lffth, Immersion of the 4th satellite of Jupiter, observed at
12h50; 1" meantime, or 12h 41' IS" apparent time : — the
night clear, but the moon was so near to the planet that her
superior light rendered the satellites less distinct; on which ac-
count I suspect that at least 10" ought to be added to the time
of the immersion, and which I have used in deducing the
longitude from this observation: magnifying power 100. .
2 J st, Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
8h 2' 53" mean time, or 7h 55' 32" apparent time: — the night
fine, — magnifying power of the telescope 100.
28th, Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
6h 5V 57" mean time, or 6h 52' 45" apparent time.
Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at 9h 57' 21"
mean time, or 9h 52' 12" apparent time: — night remarkably
fine: magnifying power 100,
April 4th? Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed
at 9h 34' 57" mean time, or 9h 31' 56" apparent time.
Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed at 1 lh 5 1' 36"
mean time, or llu 48' 36" apparent time. — Night uncom-
monly clear: magnifying power 100.
20th, Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
10h 9' 28" mear time, or 10* 10' 40" apparent time:^ — night
a little hazy, belts badly defined, magnifying power 100.
May 6th, Emersion of the Jst satellite of Jupiter, observed
at 8h 27' 5&* mean time, or 8U 31' 33" apparent time: — very
(Mem J* Berlin 1748/, 103.) M, dc I'lslc I'attribuoit a la diffraiHon ou a l'inflelUon des rayons qui
rasent les bords dc lalune (Mem, pour servir a 1'hibt. dc 1'astron 1738, p. 249.) : e phenomena, ob-
serve par Grimaldi et par Newton (Opt. pane 3d ) scrvoit sur-tout a M de Tlsle pour expliquer les
anneaux que Ton voit autour du soleil dans les eclipses totales ; pour moi, je pense que e'est une
simple illusiop optique occasioned par l'irradiation ou le debordement de lun.iere.
Astron. par La Lande Tom. 2d. art. J99J,
Digitized by
Google
M&Dtf AT DAKCASTEK, 65^
hazy, von which account I»havfc deducted 20* from the obser-
ved time of the observation in deducing; the longhtide from
it: — magnifying power 100.
The 2d satellite was expected to emerge about' 5 & minutes
after the 1st: after looking for it at least 4 minutes beyond the
calculated time, I discovered that it had emerged in contact
with the 1st.
15th. Emersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter, observed at'
9h 45' 8" mean time, or 9U 49' 7" apparent time : night clear,
— magnifying power of the telescope 100.
29th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
8h 40? 4" mean time, or 8h 43' 7* apparent time: — night
clear, , magnifying power 100. .
June 4th. In the evening, the mobh occulted two smalL
*tars in («) Cancer.
b / // h / //
Btamersion of the 1st, at 8 46 0">mMn . nr Cat 8 48 ll\mwnmwm^ ^,.
da, of the2d> at 9 11 12 |me*n tune' <* ^t 9 n ^ j apparent time,
The last immersion took place so near to the extremity of?
the moon's southern limb, that it did not appear probable the
moon's disk would extend 30" south of the star. — In each of
these occultations, the stars appeared plainly defined on the
edge of the moon's disk some seconds before the occultations
took place : — in the last case, the star, by being so near to the
southern extremity ofthemoon, appeared to be in contact with
her limb for nearly 10. seconds,.and for an equal space of time
defined on the edge of the disk.
5th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
10h 34' 55" mean time, or lbb 36' 53" apparent time. The
night clear, but the belts were scarcely visible, and the limb
of the planet uncommonly tremulous : magnifying ppwer 100.
21st. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
8h 52'- 41* mean time, or 8h 51' W apparent time: the
planet and satellites well defined, magnifying power 100.
July 14th, Emersionofthe 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed
at 9h 5f> 22" mean time, or 9h 0' 0" apparent time. The pla-
net was so low and tremulous that the belts were not discern-
ible:— magnifying power 100. This observation, as well a*
Digitized by
Google
66 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
those of May 6th, and June 5th, are not to be considered as
so accurate as some of the #thers.
Sep. 1 1th. Observation on the end of a lunar eclipse.,
hi// hit
) began to leave thr">6 ^ ^ mean time, ar6 58' 16 apparent time.,
earth's shadow at S
J dear of the pe- 7 6 57 15 mean time, or 7 0 44 apparent time,
mnmbra at x
Longitude by the lunar distances.
h k ih
Uoy. 25th, 1801. The 3 ftomthe 0 long. . . . 5 4 54}
Dec B^'^
-t 2th .... do. oo, . . . o * # m f
^ThcifromAldebaran(«kTauri)do. . . 5 4 58 ft
Mean, 5 4 45
Longitude west from Greenwich by the eclipses ofthe satel-
lites of Jupiter, as deduced from the tables ot Mr. Delambre,
and the British nautical almanac.
Longitadeby Eonjptqde6ythe
Delambre> T«Mei nauueal almanac.
Dee. 24th, 1801. Immersion of the 1* satellite » [ * A * 5 »
bM h ' »
Dee. 24th, 1801. Immersion et u>e «* _««* « 4 j ! .' | ! ! ! I 4 8
Jan. Sth, 1802 do 2d «t. | *
25th -do. l»t sat. » * ^
Emersion. ...4th eat * J» 5548
^.•^••••^S?:::S.S:::::::::55ir::::::5448
25* .do, j* «*■ 51 45 : : : : . . 5 2 n
Emersion. ...4th eat ,7m * « 4ft
w 6U,.....I«mer»on...2d.a,. • j *» ; ; • ; ; ; » « <f
^•19* £3™ • • • 4&Z:: : : : : 5 5,22 51 «
do **1 *** * * o* 55 3^
April «fc, Emersion of the 2d Mt « | 21 . • . • • - g
*» £2" 55 5 5 5 49
20th do. 1* sat. • | i4a 5 5 20
May 6A, do. £ JS"." .* .* | .' 5* J »H
l*h„ do. 3d sat ...... 5 5 18
29th do. 1st sat. 5447. ~ 5 5 9
June 5th .-do £•*• .55 1. 5S 8
2Ut do. 1* sat •. • 5 4 43 5 4 39
Jwy 14«h, do. 1st sat. J 7
Digitized by
Google
MADE AT LANCASTER. 61
Longitude jdeduced from the lunar eclipse »f Sept 1 1th,
If the time when the moon began to leave the earth's shadow? h / » v
he taken for the end of the eclipse, the longitude will be j 5 6 44 J
f Weit fro m
If the time of the moon's leaving the penumbra be taken for £ )► Greenwich,
the end of the ejdipse, thelongitudewill.be
.Mean,
br> ><
j5 4 16 1
n» 5 3 50 J
By our maps, the borough of Lancaster appears to be about
4' 29" in time, west from the city of Philadelphia, which ad-
dled to 5h 0/; 37",*he longitude of the latter west from Green-
wich, will give 5h 51 6" for the difference of meridians be-
'tween the borough of Lancaster and the observatory of Green-
wich; which differs but 24" in time from the mean of the six
lunar observations, and only 59" in time from the widest of
them. From this it is manifest, that very great dependance
maybe placed in the lunar observations, for Jhe determination
of the longitude,
In deterrtiining the longitude from lunar observations, me
have the advantage of increasing the number almost at plea-
sure, and rendering them so numerous, that the mean of all
the results shall be nearly as accurate as the lunar theory itself,
which seldom errs so much as 50y/ of a degrte, and generally
jnuch less.
By looking over the longitudes as deduced from the eclipses
of Jupiter's satellites, it will be seen that the results from De-
lambre's tables are much more uniform than those from the
Jiautical almanac, particularly of the 1st, 3d, and 4th satellites;
with respect to the 2d, the nautical almanac appears to have
the advantage; but it is to be remembered, that the observa-
tions made at this place have been too few, and the period
too short, to decide on a subject of such jiicety : it is never-
theless probable, that when the period is extended, and the
number of observations increased on the eclipses of the 2d
satellite, that Delambre's tables will be found to be the most
accurate*
If a mean of the longitudes deduced from the lunar obser-
vations, thex eclipses of Jupiter's satellites agreeably to Delam-
Jbre's tables, and the lunar eclipse be taken collectively, the
longitude of Lancaster will appear to be 5h 5* 0".6; and if
Digitized by
Google
68 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS.
a mean of the eight good observations on the eclipses of the
1st satellite of Jupiter beL taken, the longitude will be 5h 5' ln.$
which exceeds the longitude as taken from our maps but H.3
and that of a> mean of the whole collectively but 6" J. From
which it appears, that the longitude may be considered to lie
between fib' 0."6, and 5h5' 7".3 west from Greenwich,
without the possibility of a material errors I shall therefore for
the present call it 5h 5' 4"-
Obseryation on the going of the. Clock.
The pendulum-rod of the clock is made of wood, as being
the most convenient for transportation, and not so liable to ac-
cidents as the gridiron-rod in removing the clock from one
place to another, in which way it has heretofore generally
been used.
It was formerly supposed that wood neither expanded, nor
contracted, in the direction of the grain, with heat and cold;
but this is not strictly true, though the alteration appears much
less than from, wet and dry. When the atmosphere continues
for some time equally saturated with moisture, the clock has
always been found to go very regularly, notwithstanding the
great and sudden changes we experience in the United States,
from hot to cold, and from cold to hot. But the atmosphere
being charged at different times, wkh different degrees of mois-
ture, has a considerable effect, provided those changes from wet
to dry, and the contrary, are of sufficient duration : for it re-
quires several days* continuance of a damp, or dry atmosphere,
to produce any sensible effect. I have observed for several
seasons, that when the weather became warm in the spring,
the motion of the clock was accelerated; the contrary would
have been the case, had the pendulum-rQd consisted of one
single bar of metal, because it would have expanded or
lengthened, as the weather became warm ; but from the mo-
tion of the clock being accelerated, it is evident that the pen-
dulum-rod must have contracted, and this was probably oc-
casioned by the dry atmosphere, and drying winds, so preva-
lent at that season of the year, in this country.
Digitized by
Google
NATURAL HISTORY OP THE
69
It does not appear from the experience of several years,
that the clock would vary more than 12 seconds per diem,
with the extreme changes of winter -and summer, and wet
and dry in our climate; when a single rod of iron would
produce a change of 22 seconds per diem, and one of brass
.34. Hence a conclusion may be drawn, that wood (though
far from being perfect) is preferable Xo a single rod, either of
iron, or of brass.
^ I am, with great esteem,
your sincere friend,
and humble servant,
ANDREW ELLICOTT.
No. XIV.
Notices of the Natural History of the northerly parts of Louisiana,
in a letter from Dr. John Watkins to Dr. Tiarton.
St, Louis, Ilinois. O&obr. 20th, 1802,
Supposed latitude between 39° and 40°,
Read Jan- 1st, 1803.
DEAR SIR,
In the note which you gave me some time ago, relative
•to some of the animals, larger trees and shrubs, that are to
be found on the west side of the Mississippi; you requested
me, that as the questions were made without much regard to
order, to trouble myself as little as possible about the arrange-
ment of my answers, I shall therefore proceed, in the spirit
of that request, and in the plainest manner, without regard
to any particular arrangement, mention such of those ani-
mals, trees, and shrubs, as are here to be met with ; and state
to you as nearly as I can the part of the country where they
most abound.
The red fox (canis vulpes) is not known in this part of the
country, or any where on this side the Mississippi, immediately
Digitized by
Google
70 NORTHERLY PARTS OF LOUISIANA,
in our latitude. North of 44 degrees however, and at the
distance of seven or eight hundred miles west of the Missis-
sippi, this animal is very common. The beaver (castor fiber)
is very common here, and has been observed in great num-
bers as far west as the whites have penetrated; and agreeably
to the accounts of the savages,^ this animal is found in great
abundance in the mountains that divide the waters of the
southern from those of the Atlantic ocean.
The buffaloe (bos americanus) is common in all this country,
and is found in great abundance as far west as the country has
been penetrated. During the winter they change their range,
and ramble to a great distance in the south, returning again
in the spring to their more northern residence. In these ram-
bles they go together in immense droves, and the savages, by
watching them in proper passages, destroy great numbers with
little trouble and expense.
The elk (cervus* wapiti), the common deer (cervus virgi-
nianus), the raccoon (ursus lotor), the panther (felis coneolor),
the ground hog (arctomys monax), the grey fox (canis Virgi-
nian us), the minkf, the flying squirrel (sciurus volucella),
the ground squirrel (sciurus striatus), the grey squirrel (sciurus
cinereus), and the black squirrel (sciurus niger), are all found
in this country, and are common for many hundred miles to
Jthe west.
The opossum (didelphis opossum) is common here; and agree-
ably to the information of Mr. Choteau, a sensible well-infor-
med man, this animal is to be met with as far west as three
hundred and fifty leagues from hence, that is, following the
course of the Missouri, which is west one quarter of a degree
to the north; and that after passing a large river, called la
Riviere qui coule, the opossum disappears, and the Porcupine
(hystrix dorsata), which is not to be seen about here, becomes
common.
In mounting the Missouri, after passing the river qui coule,
that is 350 leagues west of the Mississippi, the country assumes
a different aspect. The river washes for several hundred miles
a barren ungrateful soil, destitute of timber. Nothing is to be
• Unknown to Linnjens* I call it C. Wapiti. B- S. B. f Mustek Winingus »#/, B. S. B4
Digitized by
Google
NATURAL HISTORY OP THE 71
seen but extensive plains of what is called natural meadow,,
and here and there, upon the borders of the rivers and creeks,
a few cotton wood (populus deltoide), hickory (juglans), and
shrub oak (quercus). Here it is that the white bear (ursus arctos?)
is found; to give you a just description of this animal would re-
quire more knowledge of natural history than I "possess. I shall
therefore only repeat to you, in general, what the most intel-
ligent and best informed traders and hunters have informed
me upon this subject. The white bear, as it is here called, is
found of all colours from a brown to almost a perfect white;
and, to use the hunters expression, differs as much in its colour
as the different varieties of dogs. It is much taller and longer
than the common bear; die belly is more lank, and the ab-
domen drawn up like that of a horse kept for the course. It
runs much swifter, and its head and claws are much larger,:
and longer in proportion than the common bear. It feeds
principally upon animal food, and is .considered by the sava-
ges as their most dangerous enemy. Itattacks universally;
kills, and devours human flesh. It is not in the above men-
tioned country alone that this animal is found; it is common
much farther to the north and wesV and occupies a wide and
•extensive range, upon all the waters that form the sources of
the Missouri.
I can verify, in part, the truth of the above account of the
white bear, particularly as to its size and external appearance.
My friend the Lieutenant Governor of the upper Louisiana
and commandant of Saint Louis* Mr. Dehault Delassus, has
nfew in his possession one of these bears of about six months old.
Its colour is that of a pale orange approaching to white, with .
a streak of dark brown along the back, and on the outside of
the thigfts. It i^ taller and longer than common bears of its ager
notwithstanding the manner in which it has been raised, and
its head and claws are much larger. It has been constandy
fed upon boiled indian jcorn, and pains have been taken to
render it as docile and good natured as possible. It has not
as yet shewn any symptoms of ferocity, but suffers its keeper
to beat and handle it as he pleases. In general it exhibits, in
its manners, nearly the same character with that of the com-
mon bear. This cub, with another of a different family and.
Digitized by
Google
72 NORTHERLY PAR'TS OF LOUISIANA.
colon f, was caught; when very young, by the Chayenne In-
dians arid presented to the Governor through some of their
ttaders. These Indians inhabit the .country upon the head:
waters of one of the principal branches of the Missouri, called7
lit Fourcfie, and their residence cannot be less than 450, or 500
leagues west of the Mississippi. Mr. Delassus made a present
not long sihse of one of these cubs, the smallest and darkest
coloured, to my friend Mr: Wm. Harrison Governor of the In-
diana territory, who informed me that he intended to present
it to the President of the Philosophical Society of Philadelphia.
There you will no doubt have an opportunity of seeing it, and
will be prepared to form a* much more correct opinion, as to
its proper place among the different tribes of bears, than can
pbssibly be done from the imperfect account given by hunters.
The buck eye (vEsculus flava), the paean tree (juglans pe-
can), black walnut (juglans nigra), our common species of
hickory, the sugar maple (acer saccharum), the persimmon,
(diospyros virginiana), and the coffee tree (guilandina dioica),
as it is called in Kentucky, are all common in this country,
and are to be found' as far west as 350 leagues from hence;
that is until you arrive at' la Riviere qui coule. The beech
(fagus ferruginea), the chinquapin (fagus pumila), the chesnttt."
(fagus castanea?) and the poplar with a tulip flower (lirioden-
dron tulipifera), are none of them to be found in this part of
the country or to the west of this, agreeably t6 the informa-
tion of the best-informed traders and hunters. The poplar
with a tulip flower however is found in abundance about one
hundred miles to the south of this, and on the west side of
the Mississippi.
JOHN WATKINS.
Digitized by
Google
[ 73 ]
No. XV.
On two species of Sphex, inhabiting Virginia and Pennsylvania,
and probably extending through the United States. By B.
Hen?y Latrobe.
Read January 21st, 1803;
Philadelphia January, 21st, 1803.
The two species of Sphex to which this memoir is confi-
ned, are well known under the names, blue wasp, mason, and
dirt-dauber. Among all the remarkable insects belonging to
the order of hymenoptera of Linnaeus, they appear to be most
distinguished by their singular and cruel mode of providing
for their young.
The two species are distinguished from each other in their
manner of building, and in the form of their bodies; but agree
exactly in their mode of life, in the materials of which they
build their cells, and the food provided by them for their off-
Spring.
The first, No. I. Plate I. is probably the Sphex coerulea of.
Linnaeus, of which the following is the description:
Coerulea, alis fuscis: habitat in America septentrional!.
This sphex, is by far the most common of the two species :
the antennae are pointed and stand up when he is at work.
His nose is furnished with a strong beak, with which he works
sideways, leaving ridges on his cells which make them appear
to be plaited; his thorax is thick, the abdomen petiolated.
From the scutum attached to the petiole, is extended a strong
hook, which is very serviceable to him in securing his prey.
His sting is not very painful, and soon ceases to be troublesome.
.The wings which Linnaeus describes as brown, play between
a beautiful green, brown, and blue. The joints of the feet
are yellow, the whole of the head, body, and legs are blue,
M
Digitized by
Google
74 ON TWO SPECIES OF SPHEX.
I have however seen some individuals which had yellow spote
on the thorax, in front of the wings.
The other sphex, No. II. Plate I. (probably the Pennsylva-
nia of Linnaeus) differs from the former in many particulars
of form and colour. Linnaeus's description runs thus :
Nigra, abdomine. petiolato atro, alis subviolaceis. Habitat
in Pennsylvania*
The specific difference^ are as follows :
The head is broad, the nose blunt and emarginate, his tho-
rax is longer in proportion, the petiole of the abdomen very
long, the hook is wanting, the abdomen conical and elegantly
formed. The general colour is a dark blue approaching to
black, but on the thorax are many yellow spots, and the leg%
thighs, and feet are also spotted with yellow. His antennae
are longer than in No. I. and he carries them less upright, and
often curls them. No. II. Fig. 2. is an enlarged view of his head.
The figures both of the coerulea and Pennsylvanica are ex-
actly the size of the live insects, and an attempt is made to imi-
tate accurately their manner when alighting on then? cells,
The cells both of the S. coerulea and Pennsylvanica are
built of clay collected in moist places; but their appearance,
and mode of conduction is very different.
The S. coerulea chuses, in the open air, the south side of
a rock, or of the trunk of a tree for his structure. He then
seeks by the side of a stream for his materials. He scrapes
the clay together with his feet, and working it into as large
a round ball as he can well carry off, he begins by plaistering
the stone or wood with a thin coat. He spreads the clay with
his head, uttering a shrill sound during his work. He then
flies off for another lump, and by degrees forms the upper
ridge of his cell. He afterwards adapts a second ridge to the
prst, working alternately on each side, frequently going into
the tube thus formed, and making it perfectly smooth in the
inside. In this manner he compleats a tube of 3 or 4 inchet
long, before any attempt is made to carry in provisions for
the young brood.
Digitized by
Google
/
A
ON TWO SPECIES OF SPHEX. ^5
In the inside of houses, nothing furnishes both these species
of sphex with a more convenient situation for their cells than
the backs of picture frames; for they are fond of building in
places which have a very moderate degree of light, and the
back of a picture frame lianging against the wall has also the
advantage of furnishing two sides of the cell. A hollow
moulding of a pannel has also its strong temptations, or the
internal angle of the frame of a table. In the wooden houses
of Virginia they occupy all these situations in great numbers.
I have seen the hollow space in the front of the books in a
library occupied Uy a whole tribe of the sphex coerulea, which
thereby saved themselves much trouble, as they had only to
close the space between the edges of the binding.
The sphex Pennsylvania differs exceedingly from the coe-
rulea in the construction of his cells. Instead of a series of long
tubes divided into separate cells, the former builds separate
horizontal apartments close to each other. They are perfectly
smooth internally, but roughly finished on the outside. See
No. II. Fig. 3 & 4?: of both these species, of cells the figures
give an exact representation, both as to size and form.
The food provided by both species for their offspring is
however exactly the same, namely spiders of every genus and
species, chiefly however of those who do not fortify them-
selves by extensive webs. There is a common yellow spider
which they collect in tRe greatest numbers. I have however
observed both the Pennsylvania and coerulea attack large
spiders, in the midst of their webs and of the dead bodies of
other insects which had fallen victims to them; especially in a
remarkable instance: the sphex flew nimbly at the spider and
stung him. He then retired to clean himself from the cobwebs.
This he did in the manner of a fly, using his hind legs to wipe
his wings, and his fore legs to his head. After several attacks
the spider at last attempted to escape by letting himself down
to the floor, by a thread. He then ran away, but his eneiiiy
followed him, and frequently stinging him attempted to carry
him off: but the spider was too large and heavy; and though
the sphex endeavoured to lighten his load by biting off the
spider's legs* he could not succeed while I observed him, which
was for at least half an hour.
Digitized by
Google
7 (J ON TWO SPECIES OF SPHEX.
The spiders thus collected are not killed; life enough
seems to be still left to preserve them from putrefaction or
drying. In all the cells which I have opened, they were in
a languid state capable of motion, but not of crawling along.
Nothing more cruel than their condition can well be conceiv-
ed. They are closely and indiscriminately packed together,
waiting to be devoured piecemeal by the young worm, for
whose support they are destined. See No. I 4, & No. II. 4.
Each of the cells of the sphex, Pennsylvania being sepa-
rately contrived to enclose a sufficient number of spiders, they
are separately made. But the sphex coerulea, having formed
a long tube, crams into it as many spiders as he judges suffi- *
cient, and encloses them, together with an egg, by a cross
partition of clay. He then puts a new head to the next cell
and having filled it, encloses it as the first. Thus he proceeds
to the amount sometimes ot 4 or 5 cells in one tube.
The egg appears to be soon hatched after deposition, though
I found, it impossible to ascertain the time between the closing
of the cell and the escape of the young sphex.
No. I. Fig. 3 & 4, exhibit the exact state in which I found
two ranges of cells at Ripponlodge in Virginia. The cells
were made at the back of a picture frame, from which I cut
them carefully with a table knife. The figure shows the side
next to the frame. Fig. 3, is an empty tube, ready to be di-
vided into cells. Fig. 4 a, is the last filled cell of the other
range. It is full of spiders, the worm having been just hatch-
ed, and eaten nothing, b. contains a worm more advanced
which has consumed half his store, c. contains another in a
still greater progress to maturity, which has but little provision
left. Fig. 5, exhibits the worm, which after consuming all the
stock of spiders, is prepared to spin its involucrum. Fig. 6,
represents the chrysalis, broken. The dots exhibit its full
size.
In the first range of the cells, No. I. Fig. 2; and in No. II.
Fig. 3, are seen the holes by which the young sphex escapes.
No. II. Fig. 4, shews the inside of two cells, carefully sepa-
rated from the board on which they were built.
Digitized by
Qoogle
ptf TWO SPECIES OP SPHEX. 77
As I had always found the number of spiders in each cell
unequal, but apparently regulated by their size, I opened a
range of cells of the sphex Pennsylvanica, and having weigh-
ing the contents I found the result as follows. See No. III.
The lowest contained 19 spiders and a small worm, graim.
which seemed lately hatched, and had eaten nothing.
See Fig. L — The spiders weighed 7-J.
The next contained 17 spiders and one empty skin,
the worm, Fig. 2, weighed ^ of a grain, the spiders 6^
The third contained 19 very small spiders and a few
empty skins, weighing ... . 5%.
The worm, Fig. 3, weighed . . . 4.
The fourth contained only the empty skins of the spi-
ders. The worm, Fig. 4, seemed lean and weak,
he was just beginning to spin. I think he must have
had a short allowance provided for him, or have
been sick: he weighed „ . . . • 3^.
The fifth contained an involucrum in which was a large
grub not yet changed to a chrysalis. The involu-
crum and worm beiqg heavier than the last, weigh-
The 6th and 7th cells were open at the point, the young
sphex having escaped.
This examination proves that the sphex exercises a nice
degree of judgment in the quantity of provision he lays up.
For the cell No. 3. must have contained 22 or 23 spiders,
and I have often counted only 6 or 7 in one, but they were
of a large size. It also appears that the full-grown worm
weighs about half as much as the food that jeared him.
If it be further necessary to break the line which has for-
merly been drawn between reason and instinct, *he economy
of the whole class of hymenoptera, and especially of the
sphex, will contribute towards it, I will relate a singular in-
stance of conduct in which instinct appears to be out of the
question.
In order to examine one of these insects (the Pennsylvanica)
at work, I raised a picture frame a little from the wall. In
doing this, I injured several of his cells, for the dirt sticking
Digitized by
Google
78 ON TWO SPECIES OF SPHEX;
to the wall was torn off, and left holes in them, through
tt&ich the spiders and young worms were visible. I kept the
Iftime about an inch from the wall so as to see plainly behind
■{it. In a few moments the sphex returned, bringing with him
a round lump of clay. He had just begun a new cell, but
seeing his former work disturbed!, he ran rapidly over the
cells, in apparent doubt what to do. At last- he put down
the clay on the margin of one of the holes, and began to
spread it with his nose, pushing it out before him with the
action of a hog which is rooting. While he did this he made
a shrill buzzing noise. Having plaistered up the hole very
perfectly and neatly, he flew away. In 4 minutes he returned
with another lump of clay. He put it down at once by the
next hole, and stopped it in the same manner. He. repeated this
four times, and having finished his repairs, and s&t&fied himself
by ranging over the cells several times, he flew for ano-
ther lump, with which lie proceeded to compleat his new
cell.
If reason be exhibited in the modification of conduct to
unexpected circumstances, this surely was an instance of rea-
soning. The sphex saw the unexpected dilapidation of his
work : it had happened in his absence : the clay he brought
was for the new cell : seeing however, the injury done to his
work, he thoroughly repaired the old cells, insteadof building
new ones. -.-y ...
For some insteresting notices concerning the insects which
are the subject of the proceeding paper, see a communica-
tion by Mr. John Bartram, a member of this Society, in the
Transactions of the Royal Society of London, vol. 43. No.
4,76, for the yeac 1745.
Digitized by
Google
ruu, j.
Sl>H£lL.
7V I. Caerulca.
3S
*d\-
-J?*
8.
JP? II. TinnsylvajiicA.
1.
Ed
j.
M
37J77.
I.
4.
:*«
#«ll
^' »m« *•.
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
[ 79 ]
No. XVI.
Memorandum concerning a new Vegetable Muscipula. By Dr.
Barton.
Read February 18th, 1803.
February, 16th, 1803,
The existence of an irritable principle in vegetables was
denied by Haller, by Gaubius, and by Wolf, but has been
completely demonstrated by the researches of many of the
botanists. This principle is now found to pervade almost every
part of the organized plant. It is particularly conspicuous in
the stamens and pistils, or male and female organs of genera-
tion, in vegetables. With respect to these organs, it would
indeed seem, that the irritability which they possess is almost
entirely subservient to the function of generation.
In many vegetables, the irritable power is very remarkable,
and some facts would lead us to believe, that it is accompa-
nied by the sense of perception. The wonderful faculty of
the Dionaea muscipula, one of the native plants of our coun-
try, is now pretty well known to every person who is studious
of the interesting subject of vegetable physiology. Each leaf
of the Dionaea is terminated by a glandular-like apparatus,
which immediately closes upon, and retains, the insect that
alights upon it. Something of the same kind has been dis-
covered in different species of Drosera, or Sundew.
We are by no means acquainted with the extent of the
irritable principle in vegetables. It will, doubtless, be found
to pervade the vegetable structure much more generally than
is now supposed. In particular, we. may expect to discover
instances of irritability in many vegetables, in which this attri-
bute has not, hitherto, been observed. In the summer of
1801, I discovered a vegetable muscipula in the vicinity of
Philadelphia, Having collected some branches, in flower, of
the Asclepias syriaca, or Syrian Swallow-wort, well known in
Digitized by
Google
80 MEMORANDUM CONCERNING A NEW
the United States by the names of Wild-cotton, cotton-plant,
&c*; with the view of making some experiments with the
milky juice of this plant, I was not a little surprized to find,
in the course of a few hours, a number of the common house-
flies strongly attached to the flowers; being secured, some by
their proboscis, and others by their legs : the greater number,
however, by their legs. I, at first, imagined, that the flies
were merely retained by the viscous juice of the flowers of
this Asclepias: but I soon found, that this was not the case
They were detained by the small valves of the flower, and I
observed, that the irritability of the valves seemed to reside
exclusively in one particular spot, not larger than the point of a
common sized pin. Neither in this spot nor in any other
part of the valve, could I observe the least vestige of a glutin-
ous or viscous quality. I think it sufficiently evident, that the
valve is endued with the irritable principle.
In the genus Asclepias, the valves which I have noticed,
are ten in number, being situated in pairs, so as to form five"
little fovia, the structure and uses of which are not sufficiently
known to the botanists.
A considerable number of flies, not less perhaps than sixty
or seventy, which alighted upon the flowers of my Asclepias,
were detained in the manner I have mentioned, a few by their
proboscis, the greater number, however, by their legs; and a
very few by their proboscis, and one or more of the legs.
Many of the flies, particularly the larger ones, were ena-
bled, after some time, 'to disengage themselves from their pri-
son, without the loss of any of their limbs or organs, or any
perceptible injury whatever. Many others effected their
escape, not however, without the loss of one or more of their
legs, or their proboscis. Not a few, after making long and
repeated efforts to regain their liberty, perished in their vege-
table prisons.
• This is a very common plant in every part of the United States, that I hare visited j via.
from the latitude of 43 to that of 38. It is a vegetable of considerable importance; and, accord*
inglT, it is cultivated, with much attention, in some parts of Europe, Paper, doth, and other
useful articles are made out of its stems, the silk-like matter in the follicles, &c. In Canada, a
good brown sugar is procured from the nectar of the flowers. In the vicinity of Philadelphia,
the plant flowers in June and July.
Digitized by
Google
VEGETABLE MUSCIPULA. 81
I cannot find, in any of the authors whom I have consulted,
any mention of the curious, property of the Asclepias syriaca,
which I have described : and yet this is a very common vege-
table, not only in America, but likewise in the old world. It
is evident, however, from a passage in the Genera Plantarum
of Mr. De Jussieu, that the fly-catching property of some
species of Asclepias has been noticed, before me. Ih describ-
ing the organa sexualia of this family of plants, the learned
French botanist has the following words : " An potitis circum-
scripta! sexu, non pro polline tanthm, sed pro antheris etiam
habenda corpuscula quorum valvulas contrahunt distrahuntve
cornua, vectium elasticorum more saep6 muscicapa, non aliia
nata laboribus." I may add, that the flowers of the Apocinum
androssemifolium, a North- American vegetable, very nearly
allied to the genus Asclepias, have been shown, by Dr. Darwin
and other writers, to be endued with the property of catching >
insects.
It is a curious fact, which may be worth mentioning, in
this place, that several of the Contorta, or Contorted plants, to
which the genera Asclepias and Apocinum belong, prove de-
structive to insects, in various ways. I- shall not repeat what
I have already said, concerning the two genera, just mention-
ed. It is a well-ascertained fact* that flies, mistaking it would
seem (for instinct often errs) ,the peculiarly fetid flowers of the
Stapelia variegata for putrid flesh, deposit their eggs upon the
petals of this plant. As this is not a proper nidus for the eggs;
the young ones, when hatched, soon perish. The common
Rosehay, or Oleander (Nerium Oleander) is another of the
Contorted plants. It has long been known, that this is a poi-
sonous plant. But I do not know, that any person than my-
self has observed, that this fine vegetable proves very destruc- •
tive to the. common house-flies. These insects visit the Oleai*-
der, in order to drink the fluid secreted in the tube of its
flowers. The liquor soon intoxicates them, and very few of
those which have gained admittance inta the blossom, ever re-
turn from it. So. great is the number of flies destroyed, in the
course of one season, by a single Oleander, that I have often
thougjht it would be worth our while to pay more attention*
N
Digitized by
Google
93 ON THE PROCESS QF CLAYING SUGAR.
than we yet do* to the cultivation of this vegetable; as, inde~
pendently on its beauty, it is so well calculated to lessen the
numbers of a mast common and trouhlesome insect
No. XVII.
On the Process of claying Sugar,. By Jonathan William. Esq*
Read Muck 4th, 1S0S.
The art of refining sugar consists of three operations;
the first is clarification, so well known in Pharmacy* by the
addition of a coagulable substance, and a gentle application of
heat. The second is chrystalisation* that is, evaporating the
superabundant water by a strong application of heat; the third
is merely washing away the colouring, mucus from the chrys-
talised mass, by a gradual supply, and minute distribution of
water. The last operation being alone the subject of this
paper* it is needless to enter into a detail of the preceding
ones, which are totally distinct from it.
The mould in common use is made in die shape of a cone*
and perforated at its apex. It is placed in the fill-house in an
inverted position, and filled from the coolers with the sugar
partially granulated, but not sufficiendy to separate the grain*
from the mucus; a great proportion being still held in solution
by heat. In this state the mould remains all night* and in
the morning is hauled up from the fill-house into a room
above, where it is placed upon a> pot, the apex of the cone
entering the mouth of the pot. The sugar is now become cool*
and forms a mass of grains and mucus; but care is taken to
keep the room warm enough to prevent the too great inspissa-
tion of the mucus. The surface of the sugar at the base of
the cone is made level* and having shrunk in consequence
of the first running of the mucus, there is sufficient space
within the mould to hold a quantity of clay, made, by ft
proper mixture of water, into a semifluid state* lessemhung
Digitized by
Google
ON THE PROCESS OF CLAYING SUGAR. &$
thin paste. Part of (he water, no doubt, will escape from the
superior surface of the day by evaporation; but by far the
greater part will be distributed over the surface, and gradually
descend through an immense number of interstices, forming
little currents all over the mass of sugar ; thus increasing the
fluidity of the mucus, and favouring its descent towards the
apex, where it issues in a single stream into the pot on which
the mould stands. To give a more ready issue to the mucus at
the apex, a perforation is previously made in the mass by a
small spear, called a pricker.
At the end of several days this clay becomes a dry cake,
being deprived of its water, in the manner above described:
it is then removed, and fresh diluted clay being put into ite
place, the operation of washing the mucus from the chrystals
recommences. This is repeated, till the loaf becomes sufficiently
white, when it is taken from the mould, by gently striking its
*dge against a block which causes the loaf to Ml into the
hand; being then dried in the stove, it becomes ready for con-
sumption.
It is evident that the water contained in the clay on the base
of the cone must, in descending to its apex, go on relatively
increasing, in proportion to the diminishing surfaces (that is,
inversely as the squares of the diameters) through which it pas-
ses, till at last it all assembles at a point and is discharged through
one hole. It is also evident, that these repeated operations of
washing the mucus from the grains or chrystals of the sugar,
dissolve and carry off a part of the sugar itself; it is accord-
ingly found in practice, that by evaporating the water of the
fluid that had fiitred through the mass, more sugar may be
obtained, but the mucus will of course bear a large proportion
to the grains; these sirups therefore are generally mixed with
die next bailing, and so on, till they at last run from loaves
of the lowest quality (called bastards) and finally become
treacle or molasses, which will no longer granulate.
The mould which was at first full, will now contain a loaf
of white sugar, the solid contents of which is not more than
half of what it was originally.
. Let Fig. 4. Plate III, represent the section of a mould, in
the shape of those at present in use, filled with 6ugar; it is
Digitized by
Google
84? ON THE PROCESS OF CLAYING SUGAR.
evident, by inspection, that only so much of the mucus of the
of the mass as does not exceed in diameter that of the hole
at the apex, can descend in a right line, yet. every drop m
the whole mass must issue frbm the same aperture.
Let us suppose this mass. to be divided into any number of
strata; — it is evident that each stratum not only sufters the wash-
ing and consequent waste incident to itself, but must also
be washed by the fluid issuing from all the strata above it.
If then the water from the clay be just sufficient to wash the
first stratum white, a further quantity must be added to whi-
ten the second stratum, which has now beside its own, the
colouring mucus of the first stratum increased in quantity by
all the water that had been added ; but this second supply of
water must pass through the first stratum where it is not wan-
ted, and here it must do the mischief of dissolving a part of
the whitened sugar. The third stratum again has three .time*
its own quantity, and thus the quantity of mucus accumulates
in a series of .proportional?, till the last stratum receives the
colouring mucus of the whole mass, and all the water that
had been added, if it be not before entirely dissolved. It must
too be considered, that a§ the currents of mucus are descending
along the sides of the cone, the loaf will constantly sink, en^
deavouring by its gravity always to keep in contact with the
mould; and thus will be. still more liable it to be dissolved by
these currents.
If at. the end of the operation, the loaf should be found only
two thirds of its original height, one third of the number of
strata must have been entirely dissolved; and as the vacant part of
the mould will be at the base of the cone, the deficient
strata will be those of the largest diameter, which shows a
real deficiency of mass, much greater than at first sight
might be imagined. It must be considered also, that the sugar,
thus returned to its former liquid state, will require to be
evaporated by the application of great heat (no evaporation,
going on in the pot, its mouth being closed by the mould)
which will inevitably deepen its colour; so that every opera-
tion of this sort makes the mucus darker and darker, till it
becomes almost black, the known colour of molasses or treacle.
Digitized by
Google
ON THE PROCESS Of. CLAYING StfGAR. 85
if proof of the latter fact were requisite, we need only look
at the juice of the cane, which is nearly colourless, and would
doubtless yield white sugar in the first instance, if the neces-
sary operation of boiling did not make it brown.
Let Fig. 5 represent a cylindrical mould of the same base,
and one third of the altitude of the conical one, Fig. 4; we
know that the solid contents of Jthese masses would be equal. It
is evident then that the same quantity of sugar in the cylindri-
cal mould would contain but one third the number of horizon-
tal strata with that in the conical one, and consequently that the
proportional series of accumulating mucus would extend to
only one third -die number of terms in the latter, that it did
in the former case. It is evident also that every descending
. current would describe a right line, save only the little varia-
tions in passing round the chrystals; all the horizontal strata
therefore being equal in diameter, none could receive any fluid
laterally, but all would be able to support an equal quantity
of water withput any additional cause of dissolution, except
the proportional series of the descending fluid, which, as be-
fore mentioned, would -only , extend to one third the number
oft erm$, and be unaffected with any increase from a constantly
diminishing surface, as in the cone.
The plain consequence of this difference in Jhe two masses
- is, that a greajter quantity of undissolved sugar must be retained
in the cylinder than in the cone, while the operation of whi-
tening, that is of washing away the colouring mucus from
the chrystals, is equally effected in both. ,
No attention is paid to the mere form of the loaf, because,
as it is always broken into pieces before it can be used, the
consumers would soon accommodate themselves to any one
generally adopted : and for all purposes of packing, the cylin-
drical shape would be most convenient. But as it might be dif-
ficult to " knock out" from the mould a cylindrical mass with-
out breaking it, so much deyiation from this shape might be
adopted in practice, as would favour this operation; the frustum
of a cone therefore as Fig. 6, Plate III, nearly resembling the
shape of a common flower pot, is recommended., Let the
smaller diameter of this mould be its bottom, to be perforated
Digitized by
Google
$6 ON THE PROCESS OF CLAYING SUGAR.
with as many holes as the matter of which the mould is made
will admit without breaking. Let a piece of leather or other
flexible substance be prepared, somewhat larger than the bot-
tom of the mould; let there be as many points or small spikes
through this leather as there are holes in the mould, and so
fixed that each point being within its corresponding hole
when the mould is set, may be withdrawn when it is ready
to be hauled up in the morning, by merely lifting the mould
from it; the operator's feet being on the edges of the leather
to keep it down. The mass then would be ready pricked, and
this operation would be saved.
Instead of a pot, let this mould be placed over a deep dish
like the bottom of a flower pot; 3 or 4 small knobs at the
bottom of the mould, near the edge, would be sufficient to
keep it above the mucus that would run into the dish, and
leave a free circulation of air over the surface: by this
means the evaporation of water from the mucus would be
spontaneously going on while it is collecting, and instead of
thin sirup to be boiled over again, a thick mass would be
found already in part granulated.
To ascertain the reality of the improvement here proposed,
.the following experiment has been made.
Two moulds were prepared; one such as is in common use,
with but one issue for the sirup, the other with many issues
as above described. Equal quantities of sugar from the cool-
ers were put into each, and both went through a like process
in every respect After being under clay the usual time the
sugar was taken out and weighed.
The loaf of the first mould weighed six pounds two ounces,
that of the second weighed seven pounds fourteen ounces,
making a difference of twenty eight ounces in ninety eight;
that is a saving (without any additional labour) of nearly twenty
eight per cent. To this saving add the spontaneous evaporation
from the surface of an open dish, which it is presumed would
lessen the quantity of fluid, that would require another boiling,
at least one half. The latter part of the experiment was not
tried for want of convenient apparatus.
Digitized by
Google
NEWLY DISCOVERED ISLANDS, &C.
87
As Ihe quantities of sugar in the moulds were determined
by equal dips of a ladle only, there may have been some in-
accuracy; but if the result in practice should give a saving of
twenty per cent, or even less, the manufacturer will be amply
repaid for changing the form of his moulds; especially as the
decrease by breakage might be supplied by the new form,
and thus eventually occasion very little additional expense.
No. XVIII.
An Account qf same newly discovered Islands and Sfioals, in the
Indian Seas. By Mr* Thomas, an Officer on board ttie Amen*
can Slup Ganges.
Reml April 1st, 1803.
SHIP GANGES, Fs». 15, 1803.
AT 6 P. M. passed between two Islands, lying WbN
and EbS, per compass, which we supposed to be Egmont and
Edgecomb islands, as seen by captain Carteret in the Swallow.
After running '25 leagues N bE'tE, passed by nine smali
islands entirely covered with wood, lying in a N W and S E
direction; in length about 15 leagues. These islands were not
qeen by captain Carteret, nor are they laid down in > the charts
which we had, either of Robertson or Dalrymple, nor in
any chart I have since seen. Being a breast of the northern-
most at *noon, had a very good meridian altitude ; — which
made us in latitude 9* 44rS* From distances of moon and
stars east and west of her, taken 14 hours after leaving the
land, I should lay them down in longitude 166* 43' E.
They are of a middling height, may be seen at the distance
of 8 or 10 leagues, and have no dangerous rocks or shoals in
their vicinity : having run so close in with the shore as to see
the natives on the beech, and their huts, with the naked eye.
Egmont Island is very erroneously laid down by captain
Carteret, in 11° 00' S. & 164° 5(f E. From my observations,
Digitized by
Google
38 NEWLY DISCOVERED ISLANDS, &C.
which I had a good opportunity of making, and which may
I presume be considered as tolerably correct, I should lay it
down in 10° 5tf S. and 166° 10' E.
MARCH 3d, 1802.
At 8 A. M. made several small low islands,, distant about
Cor7 miles: they are very dangerously situate, being level
with the water, and if it were not for a few cocoa-nut trees
growing on them, it would be impossible to see them 3 leagues
off, on the clearest day. They lie in a N W and S E direc-
tion, about 7 leagues long; and are entirely surrounded with,
rocks. A reef extends from the N W part into the sea about
6 miles, over which the sea breaks very high: there are but
very few dry spots on the whole of them; they consist of
white sand and coral. I make the northern extreme to lie
in 9* 55' N. and the southern in 9° 38' N. Longitude of the
middle of the shoal, from observations of sun and moon*
161° 2& E.
SEPTEMBER 7th, 1802.
At midnight made a shoal not twice the ship's length ofl£
arid steering right for it; immediately wore, and stood to the
N W till day light; then stood to the S E, in order to survey
the shoal. At 9 A. M. made the S W part, distant about 3
miles, and run along the N E part of it at the distance of
one mile, or a mile and a half: it runs about N E and S W
16 or 18 miles in length, and about 14. in breadth; the N E
part is the broadest, and on this part was the only dry spot
I could see from the mast head. Some large drift-wood ly-
ing on it, had much the appearance of black rocks.
It is a very dangerous shoal, and can not be seen until you
are very near it. From good observed distances of the sun
and moon, which I had the same afternoon, and good meri-
dian altitudes that day and the day after, when in sight of the
shoal, I have been able to ascertain ks situation with tolerable
correctness viz:
Digitized%by
Google
IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES. 89
The S W. extreme, Lat 2 52 N. Long. 131 07 E.
The N N. extreme, Lat 3 06 N. Long. 131 23 E.
These are all in the usual course to and from China, of ships
going round New Holland, and returning by the eastern pas-
sage-
No. XIX.
FIRST Report of Benjamin Henry Latrobe, to tfie American
Philosophical Society, hi Id at Philadelphia; in answer to the en-
quiry of the Society of Rotterdam, "tV/iether any, and what
44 improvements liave been made in the construction of Steam*
44 Engines in America f'
Philadelphia, 20th Mar, **>&
Gentlemea,
THE Report due from me to the Society, in consequence
of the enquiry made by the Society of Rotterdam, as to the
improvements made in America, in the construction of steam-
enginev would have been laid before you at a much earlier
period, had it not been my wish to submit several American
alterations in the construction of steam-engines, which pro-
mised to be very valuable improvements, to the test of expe-
rience; and this delay has not bjen without its use; for it has
been discovered that some of our innovations, the theory of
which appeared to be very perfect, have proved extremely
deficient in practical utility.
In this first report 1 will therefore confine myself to such im-
provements as have had a fair trial, in engines actually at work.
Steam-engines, on the old construction, were introduced in
America above 40 years ago. Two, 1 believe, were put up in
New-England before the revolutionary war; and one, (which
I have seen) at the copper-mine on the river Passaick, in
New-Jersey, known by the name of the Schuyler-mine. All
o
Digitized by
Google
90 IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES,
the principal parts of these engines were imported from En-
gland. With the Schuyleivmine engine, Mr. Hornblower*
the uncle of the younger Hornblower, who is well known as
a skillful and scientific engine-builder, and whose calculation*
on the power of steam are extremely useful, came to America.
He put up the engine, which at different times has been at
work during the last thirty years, and which, notwithstanding
its imperfect construction, and the faulty boring of its cylinder*
effectually drained the mine.
During the general lassitude of mechanical exertion which
succeeded the American revolution, the utility of steam-en-
gines appears to have been forgotten; but the subject after-
wards started into very general notice, in a form in which it
could not possibly be attended with much success. A sort of
mania began to prevail, which indeed has not yet entirely sub-
sided, for impelling boats by steam-engines. — Dr. Franklin pro-
posed to force forward the boat by the immediate action of
steam upon the water. (See his Works). Many attempts to
simplify the working of the engine, and more to employ a
means of dispensing with the beam, in converting the Librato-
ry into a rotatory motion, were made. For a short time a
passage-boat, rowed by a steam-engine, was established be-
tween Bordentown and Philadelphia : but it was soon laid aside.
The best and most powerful steam-engine which has been em-
ployed for this purpose, excepting perhaps one constructed by
Dr. Kinsey, with the performance of which I am not suffi-
ciently acquainted, belonged to a few gentlemen of New-York.
It was made to act, by way of experiment, upon oars, upon
paddles, and upon flutter wheels. Nothing in the success of
any of these experiments appeared to be a sufficient compen-
sation for the expense, and the extreme inconvenience of the
steam-engine in the vessel.
There are indeed general objections to the use of the steamr
engine for impelling boats, from which no particular mode of
application can be free. Tljese are: 1st, The weight of the
engine and of the fewel. SJd, The large space it occupies.
3d, The tendency of its action to rack the vessel and render
it leaky. 4th, The expense of maintenance. 5th, The nte-
Digitizes by
Google
I
' IMPHOVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES. 91
r
gularity of its motion, and the motion of the water in the
boiler and cistern, and of the fuel-vessel in rough water. 6th^
The difficulty arising from the liability of the paddles or oars
to break, if light; and from the weight, if made strong. Nor
have I ever heard of an instance, verified by other testimony
than that of the inventor, of a speedy and agreeable voyage
having been performed in a steam-boat of any construction.
I am well aware, that there are still many very respectable and
ingenious men, who consider the application of the steam-en-
gine to the purpose of navigation, as highly important, and
as very practicable, especially on the rapid waters of the Mis-
sissippi; and who would feel themselves almost offended at the
expression of an opposite opinion. And perhaps some of the
objections against it may be obviated. That founded on the ex-
pense and weight of the fuel may not, for some years, exist on the
Mississippi, where there is a redundance of wood on the banks:
but the cutting and loading will be almost as great an evil.
I have said thus much on the engines which have been con-
structed among us for the purpose of navigating boats, because
many modes of working and constructing them have been
adopted which are not used in Europe. Not one of them,
however, appears to have sufficient merit to render it worthy
of description and imitation ; nor will I, unless by your further
desire, occupy your attention with them.
The only engines of any considerable powers v\ hich, as far
as I know, are now at work in America, are the following.
1st, At New- York, belonging to the Manhattan Water-Com-
pany, for the supply of the city with water. 2d, One at
New-York, belonging to Mr. Roosevelt, employed to saw
timber. 3d, Two at Philadelphia, belonging to the corpora-
tion of the city, for the supply of the city with water; one of
which also drives a rolling and slitting mill. 4th, One at
Boston, of which 1 have been only generally informed, em-
ployed in some manufacture. In my second report, I will
notice the improvements made by the very ingenious Dr. Kih-
sey, who has erected, at New- York, an engine upoji a new
principle which is intended to be used in the supply of that
city with water; should it on experiment, be found to answer
Digitized by
Google
92
IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES,
the intended purpose. He has made other improvements in
the construction of steam-engines, of which I shall also give
you some account. Nor ought I to omit the mention of a small
engine, erected by Mr. Oliver Evans, as an experiment, with
which he grinds Plakter of Paris; nor of the steam-wheel of
Mr. Briggs.
1st. The Manhattan company's engine at New-York, is up-
on the principle of Bolton and Watt's double engines, without
any variation. It has two boilers; one a wooden one, upon
the construction of those first put up in Philadelphia, the
other of sheet iron, on Bolton & Watt's construction. The
tly-wheel is driven by a sun and planet motion, and the shaft
works three small pumps with common cranks.
'2d. Mr. Roosevelt's engine has all the improvements which
have been made by the joint ingenuity of Messrs. Smallman &
Staudinger, with the assistance of the capital and intelligence of
Mr. Roosevelt; and which have also been adopted to the
engines, belonging to the water-works at Philadelphia.
3d. The engines at Philadelphia, independently of these
improvements, act also upon a pump, the principal of which,
though not new, has never before, I believe, been used upon
a large scale; and which is worthy of being particularly de-
scribed.
I shall now proceed to describe these innovations, for expe-
rience does not permit me as yet to call them all improvements,
although I have no doubt, but that they will furnish hints
of use to bring the steam-engine to greater perfection.
1st. THE WOODEN BOILER.
Wooden boilers have been applied in America to the pur-
pose of distilling for many years. Mr. Anderson, whose im-
provements in that art are well known, appears to have first
introduced them in America. But it was found that the mash
had a very injurious effect upon the solidity of the wood : for
while the outside retained the appearance of soundness, and
the inside that of a burnt, but hard surface, the body of the
plank was entirely decayed. It was however still to be tried,
Digitized by
Google
IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES. S3
whether simple water and steam, would have the same effect;
and upon the hint of Chancellor Livingston, our present Am-
bassador in France, Messrs. Roosevelt Smallman and Hau din-
ger contrived the wooden boiler, which has been used for all
the engines in New York and Philadelphia; and not without
its great, though only temporary, advantages. The construc-
tion of the wooden boiler, will be best understood, by refer-
ence to the plan and section of the new boiler of the engine
in Center^square, Philadelphia, which is by far the best of
those which have been made. It is in fact only a wooden
chest containing the water, in which a furnace is contrived,
of which the flues wind several times through the water,
before they discharge themselves into the chimney.
In the plan and section, Plate II, Fig. 1, 2, 3, 4, A is the fur-
nace, B B B, are upright cylinders, called heaters, among
which the fire passes, heating the water within them, and
which, at the same time, support the roof of the fire-bed, or
lower passage of the flame to the flues. C, is the take-up, or
passage from the fire-bed to the flues. D the upper flue through
which the fire passes from the take-up to the register E, when
it enters into the chimney.
This boiler differs from the others, in the addition of the
upright cylinders of the fire-bed, and in the elliptical form of
its flues. The merits of this boiler are — that as the wood, in
which the water is contained, is a very slow conductor of heat,
a great saving of fuel is thereby effected; especially, as an op-
portunity is afforded, by means of the cylindrical heaters and
of the length of the flue, to expose a very large surface of
iron containing water to the action of the fire. An idea of
of this saving may be formed, by the quantity of coal consu-
med by the engine in the Center-square, which is a double
steam-engine, the diameter of whose cylinder is 32 inches.
The power of this engine is calculated to answer the future,
as well as to supply the present wants of the city; it is there-
fore kept irregularly at work, filling, alternately, the elevated
reservoir, and stopping during the time which is occupied by
the discharge of the water into the city. It may, however, be
fairly rated to go at the rate of 12 strokes, of 6 feet, per
Digitized by
Google
94 IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES.
minute, for 16 hours in 24,* during which time it consumes
from 25 to 33 bushels of Virginia coals of the best sort. Of
the amount of the saving, I cannot venture to make an esti-
mate ; on account of the great variety of coal with which
we are supplied, much of which is of a very*indifferent
quality. That there is a great saving is certain; and while the
wooden boilers continue stream-tight, (for that part which
contains the water gives no trouble) they are certainly equal,
if not superior, to every other. The wood, however, which is
above the water, and is acted upon by the steam, seems to
loose its solidity in the course of time; and steam-leaks arise
in the joints, and wherever a bolt passes through. The joint-
leaks may for a considerable time, be easily stopped, by screw-
ing up the bolts that hold the planks together; but it is not so
easy to cure the bolt-leaks; for the bolt, when screwed up,
bends the top or the sides inwards, and forces new leaks,
either along the corners, or at some other bolt-hole. I do not,
however, believe, that every thing has as yet been done, which
could be done, to obviate these defects. A conical wooden
boiler hooped would not be subject to some of them: such a
one has been applied by Mr. Oliver Evans to his small steam-
engine. During two years, which have elapsed since the
boilers of the public engines have been erected, much has
been done to improve them. Whether the last boiler will prove
as perfect in its wood-work, as it is in its furnaces and dues,
is still to be ascertained by experience. At present nothing
can work better.
I will only mention one other circumstance, the knowledge
of which may prevent similar mischief. — In the first boiler
erected in Philadelphia, oak timber was used to support the
♦sides, bottom, and lop of the boilers, the plank of which was
white pine, 4 inches thick. In less than ^ year it was discov-
ered, that the substance of the pine plank, to the depth of an
incli, was entirely destroyed by the acid of the oak. Means
were then used to prevent its further action, by the interven-
tion of putty and pasteboard ; and in most cases by substitut-
ing pine timbers in the room of those of oak.
^Digitized by
Google
IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES. 95
CAST-IRON BOILER.
Within the last few months, a cast-iron boiler- has been put
up, at the lower engine, which hitherto exceeds the expec-
tion, I had formed of the facility with which steam is* raised
and supported by it. The engine is a double steam-engine, of
40 inches cylinder, and 6 feet stroke. The boiler has straight
sides, and semicircular ends; it Is 17 feet long, and 8 feet wide
at the bottom; and nineteen feet long, and 10 feet wide at
die height of 5 feet 7 inches. At this heighty it is covered
by a vault; which, in its transverse section, is semicircular^ and
in its longitudinal section exhibits half of its plan. The bot-
tom is concave every way; rising one foot in the center. The
fire-place is 6 feet long, and at an average 4 feet wide; and
is under one extreme end of the bottom. The fire-bed is
arched, parallel with the bottom, leaving a space of one foot
high, for the passage of. the flame. At the end opposite to
the fire-place, the flame descends along the bottom of the
boiler, and, passing under an arch of fire-bricks, which pro-
tects the flanch of the bottom, strikes the side of the boiler at
its extreme end. Here it enters a flat elliptical flue, which,
passing into the boiler, follows its form, returning again and
coming out near the place at which it entered. The entering
part of the flue is separated from the returning flue, by a par^
tition of fire-bricks, v The flue, on coming out of the boiler,
turns short round, and is carried round the whole boiler until
it enters the chimney; as will be more clearly shewn by refer-
ring to Plate II. Fig.. 5,6, 7; the same letters on each figure refer-
ring to the same things. Fig. 5. C, a horizontal section of the
boiler, through, the center of the flues. Fig. 6. B, a transverse
section of boiler at the fire-grate. Fig. 7. A, a longitudinal sec-
tion. Fig. 6, 7. D, the fire-bed. K, a bridge-wall nine inches thick,
over which the fire passes to the passage E, under the bottom
of the boiler, being parallel both ways with the same. Fig. 7.
L an arch of fire-bricks to support and protect the flanch from
being. melted by the heat. Fig. 6, 7. The fire passes from D^
through the passage E, under the arch L, Fig. 7, to the take-
up E, Fig, 5, 7, where it enters the upper flue G, Fig. 5, 6% 7>
Digitized by
Google
90 JMFRQVSMBNT* ilf STBAM SNOINKS,
which passes through the boiler. H* the flue round the outside
of the boiler, wherein the fire is carried until it enters the
chimney at I, Fig. 5. The whole boiler is tied together inter-
nally by numerous braces, Fig. 10, which are forked and bol-
ted together upon the flanches, and are indispensable to pre-
vent the boiler from bursting. The flanches and joints of the
castings are represented Fig. 6, 7.
The boiler is composed of 70 plates of iron, cast with
flanches, and bolted together, so that the ftanch and bolts are
within the water of the boiler wherever the flame touches it;
otherwise they would be burned off in a few days. The pieces
are so contrived as to be of only I 2 different patterns. This
boiler consumed 50 bushels of coal, and 4. a cord of wood,
while rolling iron 12 hours, at 20 strokes peF minute,, and
pumping water 6 hours, at 12 strokes per minute.
I will only further observe, that this boiler requires a very
active fire-man; and it is my opinion, that if it were $ teet
longer, a more moderate fire would raise the same steam and
consume less fueL The permanence of this boiler renders it
very superior to the wooden one; and the difference of the
consumption of fuel in each, in proportion to the size of the
engine, is not great.
The further improvement of the engipe itself consists in a
new application of an improved construction of the air-pump. *
I will first remark, that by the air-pump of Bolton and Watt,
the condenser is only once emptied, of its water of conden-
sation and of the air produced, in every stroke. The supe-
riority of our air-pump consists in its evacuating the conden-
ser twice at every stroke, thereby creating a much better
vacuum, and of course adding considerably to the power of
our engine in proportion to the diameter of its cylinder with-
out encreasing friction. The drawing, Plate II, Fig. 8, will
best explain the construction of this pump.
A, is the pump-barrel. B, the piston which is solid* C, the
condenser. D, a pipe of connection between the condenser
and the lower chamber of the air-pump. E, a pipe of con-
nection with the upper chamber of the air-pump. F, valves
opening towards the air-pump. G, discharging-vglves into
Digitized by
Google
IMPIOVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES. 97
two hot-wells. The head of hot-water suffered to remain on
these valves must be moderate, or they will refuse to open;
for it must be remarked, that great part of the contents of the
air-pump is an elastic gazf whicfr suffers compression and is
not expelled, if the weight on the valve be too great. The
action of this air-pump is evident from the drawing. The
expulsion of the contents of each chamber creates a vacuum
in the other, which draws in the contents of the condenser;
and thus they act equally and alternately, agreeing in their
operation with the alternate condensation of the steam in the
opposite chambers of the cylinder. Experience proves this to
be a real improvement.
The principle which has been applied to the construction
of the air-pump, is that upon which the main pump of our
water-works is constructed. A section of this pump 16 an-
nexed which perfectly explains it.
This pump has so many advantages that, had the corpora-
tion of 1800 permitted its disadvantages, (of which I shall
presendy speak,) to be remedied by the means then proposed,
I have no doubt, but that I might now recommend its general
adoption, wherever a double steam-engine is used for pumping.
The drawing in Plate II, Fig. 9, will explain its construction;
A the working barrel. B the piston. C the feed-pipe. D thfe
rising main pipe. F the valves which supply the working barrel.
G discharging valves in the ascending pipe. H the air-vessel —
The valve E, in the rising pipe, and the air-vessel H, are not ad-
ded to our pumps. The want of one or other of them, has these
disadvantages : as long as the engine makes only 1 1 or VI strokes
per minute, no inconvenience whatever is perceived in the work-
ing of the pumps. But in the engine in the center-square, which
raises the water in an 1 8 inch pipe 5 1 feet, and which has less re-
dundant power than that on Schuylkill, the attempt to work
faster than 12 strokes per minute is vain; and, as it appears
to me, from two causes: 1st, whenever the piston is at its ut-
most ascent or descent, and makes a momentary stop, the
whole column of water follows the shutting valve, acquiring
momentum as it falls. The range of our valves is 16 inches,
the column therefore descends at an average 8 inches. It
p
Digitized by
Google
98 IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM ENGINES.
weighs near 3 tqns, and to open the opposite valve against the
momentum of such a column, gives the engine a shock that
seems to endanger every part of it. In endeavouring to work
with its full power at a speed of 20 strokes a minute, this
shock is so severe, as to occasion a very perceptible stop in the
return of the stroke, during which the water of condensation
mounts into the cylinder. Two -methods were proposed to
remedy this inconvenience, which amounts to a perfect use-
lessness of more than 4. of our power, 1st, to place a large
plug-valve E, Fig. 9, in the rising pipe close to the pump,
having as much water-way through its seat at a very small
rise, as the whole pipe. This valve would shut instantane-
ously at the end of the stroke, catching the falling column of
water, and nothing would oppose its immediate return. 2d, to
place an air-vessel so as to act on the whole column. By
this means the fall of the water would be entirely prevented,
I regret that though this apparatus was provided, and could
easily have been put up, in the course of a few days, circum-
stances prohibited the trial of them, and that I can only sub-
mit them as projects. — Could this pump be used with the same
speed as the single pump, one half of the power of every
double pumping engine, which works a single pump, would
be saved; for the beam would need no counterpoise, and all
the expense and friction of a second pump, where two
are employed to balance each other, would be avoided.
I hope shortly to deliver you a second report on this
subject, — and am with true respect yours.
Read May 20th, 1803. B HENRY LATROBE.
Since the above was read in the Society I have constructed
another :and. much larger iron boiler on this plan, the former
having fully, answered my expectation. In the' new boiler
I have passed the fire through a second flue above the other,
which is immersed in the steam only, from which I promise
myself great advantage. B. H. L.
The wooden boiler above described was planned and the erection of it commenced in
July, 1801. The cast-iron boiler was projected in the latter end of January* 1803.
Digitized by
Google
Fig. J
Fi9. f .
-r
Fi<
Fw. 7
,
I
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
[ 9? ]
No. XX.
Account of the fusion of Strontites, and volatilization of Platinum,
and also of a new arrangement of apparatus. Communicated
by Robert Hare, junr. member of the Society.
Read June 17th, 1803.
IT is known, I believe, to some of the members of the
Philosophical Society, that a memoir on the supply and ap-
plication of the blowpipe, which I had presented to the Che-
mical Society, was published in the commencement of last
summer*. This memoir contains a description of a machine,
termed an hydrostatic blowpipe, calculated to confine or propel
the gases, for the production of heat, or other purposes; also
an account of some experiments, in which by a concentra-
tion of caloric, till then unattained, substances were fused,
which had been before deemed infusible. It was mentioned
that alumine, silex, and barytes, were found susceptible of
rapid fusion, and that the fusion of lime and magnesia, though
extremely difficult, was yet, in a few instances partially attain-
ed. Platinum was described, as not only susceptible of fu-
sion, but even of volatilization.
Being induced, last winter, to reinstate the apparatus, by
which these experiments were performed, I was enabled to
confirm my judgment of the volatilization of platinum, by
the observation of Drs. Woodhouse and Seybert; for in the
presence of these skilful Chemists I completely dissipated
some small globules of this metal, of about the tenth of an
inch in diameter. In fact, I found platinum to be equally
susceptible of rapid volatilization, whether exposed in its na-
tive granular form, or in that of globules, obtained from the
orange coloured precipitate of the nitro-muriatic solution, by
the muriate of ammoniac.
• Republished in the 14th volume of Tillock's Philosophical Magazine, and also in the an-
nates dc Chimic vol, 45.
Digitized by
Google *
100 FUSION O* 8TRONTITES
About the same time, I discovered Strontites to be a fusible
substance; for, having obtained a portion of this earth pure,
from a specimen of the carbonat of strontites of Argyleshire
in Scotland, I exposed it on charcoal to the flame of the com-
pound blowpipe, after the manner described in my memoir
above alluded to*. It became fused into a blackish semivitri-
ous mass, in shape somewhat semiglobular.
In the performance of these and other experiments, I was
associated with Mr. Benjamin Silliman, a gentleman of science
and ingenuity, who had a short time before been elected Pro-
fessor of Chemistry and Natural History, in Yale College, Con-
necticut.
In the course of our operations, having occasion for large
quantities of the gases, we became desirous of avoiding the
inconvenience of lading water in and out of the pneumatic
tub, as this fluid rose or fell, in consequence of the filling
or emptying of large air-holders and jars. This induced us
to design an apparatus wherein this evil was avoided, and in
which the pneumatic tub and hydrostatic blowpipe were
united. This apparatus has since been executed by Mr. Silli-
man, in the laboratory of Yale College: and, as it proves to
be convenient in operations requiring large quantities of the
gases, I think it not improper to lay a drawing and descrip-
tion of it before the society. The drawing differs a little from
the original, in the arrangement of parts, where alteration is
obviously advantageous.
As the apparatus to be described, is little else than an union
of the hydrostatic blowpipe, and pneumatic tub, it will of
* In that memoir I ventured to distinguish this flame by the word gaaeout • This appellation
has been obje&ed to, as not sufficiently distinctive— an obje&ion since rendered valid, by the
discovery of the gaseous oxide of carbon, which had been confounded with hydrogen; and
also by the consideration, that it does not distinguish between the flame of the hydrogen and oxy-
gen gases when perfe&ly pure, and when contaminated by other substances held in a state of
solution or mixture.
Certainly the term gaseous is equally applicable to the flame of the gaseous oxide, and to that
of hydrogen gas ; but it is equally certain that it was in direA opposition to the theory now al-
most universally received, that the editors of the New-York Medical Repository, declared all flame
to be essentially gaseous : for it is well known that, with an exception for the combustion of
the permanently elastic fluids mentioned above, flame is not ignited gas, but ignited vapour.
However, as the term was badly chosen, I have written in the place of it, flame of the com-
pound blowpipe, the propriety of which will appear from an inspe&ton of the instrument by
means of which the flame is supported, (See plate III. Fig. 2.)
Digitized by
Google
AND VOLATILIZATION OF PLATINUM, 101
course be easily understood by every one, who is acquainted
with those machines. The pneumatic tub is necessarily fa-
miliar to every chemist; and for an explanation of the hy-
drostatic blowpipe, I beg leave to refer to my memoir before
mentioned.
There is a transparent representation of the apparatus at
Fig. 1, Plate, III. It consists of an oblong tub A, contain-
ing two chests B, C, which are open at bottom, and complete-
ly air-tight every where else. One of these chests B, is dou-
ble the size of the other; and is divided by the air-tight par-
tition K K, into two compartments. Thus three air-cells are
formed, one by the smaller chest C, and two by the larger one
B. These last mentioned cellj> communicate with the open
air l>y means of cocks and pipes a, b, The other cell .com-
municates with the air by means of the cock c. — At D, E, F,
three circular bellows may be observed, each furnished with
a suction-pipe, and pipe of emission. The suction-pipes may
be observed at d e, f g, h i, severally entering their respective
bellows; and the pipes of emission may be seen at k 1, m n, o p,
each issuing from the bottom of the bellows to which it ap-
pertains. The orifices of the pipes of emission k, m, p, under
the air-cells, and those of the suction-pipes within the bellows,
at e, g, i, are furnished with valves opening upwards. The
bodies of the bellows consist of hose-leather sewed water-
tight, and distended by iron rings. They are nailed to the
bottom of the tub, and to circular pieces of wood, which
constitute the tops of the bellows. These tops are loaded with
several pounds of lead, which keeps them depressed, when
they are not elevated by means of the handles and rods. The
table is affixed to the tub, by means of hooks and staples,
so that it may be removed at pleasure.
At G HI, HI, pipes of delivery may be observed. These
are furnished with cocks at H H, and conical mouths at I I.
which last, are calculated for the insertion of an adjutage, for
the purposes of an ordinary blow-pipe; or for the reception of
the compound blowpipe at Fig. 2.
In order to prepare this apparatus for use, let the cock of
the air-cell behind the partition K K, be closed, and let all
Digitized by
Google
102 FUSION OF STRONTITES
the rest be open. Then let as much water be poured into the
tub, as will rise half an inch above the surface of die chests,
and fill all the jars of the apparatus. The two air-cells
whose cocks remained open, will now be filled with water,
because the air had liberty to pass out of them : but the air-
cell behind the partition K K, will remain empty of water,
because, as its cock was closed, the air was confined, and the
entrance of the water thereby prevented. The air-cell thus
unoccupied by water, for the sake of distinction, I term the
regulator; the propriety of which will be seen presently.
In operating with the common pneumatic tub, as the large
jars and air-holders become filled with gas, it is necessary to
lade out of the tub, the water displaced from them, as it
would otherwise rise so high, as to overflow; and to float,
and overturn the jars, no longer holding water. But in
this new apparatus, this inconvenience is avoided, by al-
lowing an escape of air from the regulator, adequate to
the descent of water from the jars. For as this air, is necessa-
rily subjected to hydrostatic pressure ; it will escape if the
cock a be opened, and a proportionate quantity of water,
will subside into the regulator. When the jars and air-
holders, are again filled with water, there would be a defici-
ency of this fluid, were not that which had been allowed
to subside into the regulator, again expelled therefrom, by
the action of the bellows at D. By the extension of
these bellows, which Is effected by means of their handle and
rod, the valve of the pipe of emission at k, shuts; that of the
suction-pipe at e, opens, and the air enters the bellows. The
hand being removed from the handle, the lead on the top
of the bellows depresses them; and the air within being com-
pressed, shuts the valve of the suction-pipe, opens that of the
pipe of emission at k, and enters the regulator, from which
it expels a quantity of water equal to the bulk which the
bellows gained by extension: and as all this is repeated at
every stroke of the handle, it follows, that the water which
had been allowed to subside into the regulator, may be quickly
expelled therefrom.
Digitized by
Google
AND VOLATILIZATION OF PLATINUM. 105
The air-cell formed in front of the partition K K, and
that constituted by the smaller chest C, are used to contain
factitious air; especially to confine sufficient quantities of the
hydrogen and oxygen gases, for the production of intense heat,
or the composition of water. As the contamination of hy-
drogen gas with atmospheric or pure air, might be attended
with dangerous consequences, the air-cell constituted by the
chest C, should be employed fox this gas; as its separate
situation, renders it secure from this danger. In order to
prepare these cells for the reception of the gases, all the atmos-
pheric air should be allowed to pass out, so that they may be
completely filled with water. When they are to be filled
with gas, the syphons s s, annexed to the hoses 1 1, inserted
into the suction-pipes at d h, must be passed into the jars;
and the bellows E, F, must be extended. The air of the jars
will be drawn into the bellows, and from thence be expelled
into the air-cells, from which it will displace an equal bulk of
water. But, lest the expulsion of the water from the cells
should cause it to rise too high in the tub, and to overflow ;
a correspondent depression should be effected in the mean-
time, by the escape of air from the regulator.
Gas may also be made to pass into the cells immediately
from the retort, bottle, or matrass made use of in obtaining it
without the intervention of the bellows, for if an elastic fluid
be generated in the matrass at q, it must of necessity pass thro'
the syphon inserted therein, and enter the air-cell at r.
It must be obvious, that as long as the chests are covered with
water, any gases contained in the air-cells, will be subjected to
hydrostatic pressure, and that of course when the cocks H H,
are open, they will be propelled through the pipes of delivery,
and pass out through any adjutages, inserted into their conical
mouths at I, L
If the upper parts of the chests C, D, E, F, be made of thick
plank, they may be used as shelves to support the jars; as the
thickness of the plank, will alone depress the aeriform fluid
contained in the cells, sufficiently below the surface of the
water, to afford the necessary pressure. But if from any cause,
the pressure be not great enough, the chests should, be depresr
Digitized by
Google
104 FUSION OF STRONTITES, ^&C. "
sed until it becomes so ; and the tub should be furnished with
shelves at the usual height, to support the jars. Having sub-
jected the gas in the cells to sufficient pressure, the velocity of
efflux must be regulated by opening the cocks more or less.
For this purpose, the perforations in the keys should be narrow
and oblong ; so as to admit of a gradual increase, or diminu-
tion, of the quantity of gas emitted.
The compound blowpipe represented by Fig. 2, consists of
two common brass blowpipes whose points are made to meet
in a perforation in the conical frustum of silver a. Now if
the orifices b, c, of these pipes, be inserted into themouths
I, I, of the pipes of delivery, it is obvious, that on open-
ing the cocks H, H, any-gases contained in the ceUs from
Whence these pipes issue, will be forced through them by the
pressure of the water in the tub, and will meet in a point within
the frustum. When the hydrogen and oxygen gases are thus
made to meet, and are ignited, that intense heat is produced,
by means of which I was enabled to accomplish the fusions,
mentioned in a former part of this paper. But all this is fully
explained in my memoit, to which I have so frequently re-
ferred, in the course of this communication.
It seems not improper to subjoin, that when the frustutti of
the compound blowpipe a, Fig. t£, is inserted into a receiver, and
a supply of the hydrogen and oxygen gases is supported by
means of the hydrostatic blowpipe, or the apparatus described
in this paper, very convenient means are afforded of recom-
posing water— an operation of so much importance to modern
chemical theory, that it can never become obsolete, or un-
interesting to the cultivators of science. The advantage of
the method consists in this, that the gases mix in the frus-
tum before they become ignited, and must enter into the re-
ceiver in a state of combustion. This therefore is not depen-
dent on the quantity of azot, or other noxious gas collected
in the vessel ; and as the burning gases may be made to enter
under the pressure of a considerable column of water, the irti-
-jHire air, collected during, the process, may , be forced out
through a tube into a mercurial apparatus; the operation may
continue as long as desired, and the proceeds may be examin-
Digitized by
Google
J'tuti.2
.frrr -
^ --<-
-i.
.* •
« .1. . .
#
ria. 7.
•
*t .
-5* •" *o.-- , ,%, jo
T . | . !
4 »
i •
so
1 v - -
|Trt.TT
i u i^y: . r: : i i i ! »•
r i ! ii-i i i i r.
i i v\- 1 i i i i
i i i j !
#• . •
* *
• » •
♦
« •
.*' H
* *
Digitized by
Google
..... >
'«*, * ■'. *+< .*'
4
* «* - • * .*' .
'* % **
r
% ♦
-. 4
9
•
'.••*? ••
> >.
• *«
* - -M.
^ . •'
•1 ■ "• ^ % ... Digitized by LiOOQ IC
PNEUMATIC COCK. 105
«1 with the greatest accuracy. Mr. Silliman in recomposing
water by means of this instrument, in a manner nearly similar
to that which I have pointed out, found it extremely conveni-
ent and satisfactory.
No. XXL
AN account of a Cock with two perforations, contrived to obviate
tfie necessity of a vent-peg, in tapping air-tight casks. By Ro-
bert Han, jun.
GENTLEMEN,
CONSIDERED merely as an item added to the list of
philosophical contrivances the subject of the present commu-
nication would without doubt, be too unimportant to merit a
place in a volume of your transactions : but I submit it with
deference to the judgment of the society, whether as an ad-
dition, though a small one, to the comfort and convenience
of society at large, it may not obtain a place, to which in
any other light it can have no pretensions.
It is well known that an air-tight cask is usually tapped by
means of two apertures, ope in the upper part for the admis-
sion of air, the other below for the emission of the fluid ; or,
in other words, by means of a vent-peg and cock. This me-
thod would not be very objectionable, were the vent-peg al-
ways firmly replaced as soon as the admission of air becomes
no longer necessary ; but this is seldom attended to, and th6
consequence is the frequent sourness or vapidity of vinous
liquors. The quantity of liquor annually spoiled by the omis-
sion of vent-pegs must be immense ; and must be particularly
great in those families where tapsters are too numerous to be
responsible for neglect.
To obviate these evils, arising from the necessity of a vent-
peg, I have contrived a cock. Fig. 1. Plate IV. with two
Q
Digitized by
Google
106 PNEUMATIC COCK.
perforations, ABC. D E F. which are opened or shut by
turning the key, in the same manner as the single perfora-
tion of the common cock. When this newly invented in-
strument, which for the sake of distinction may be termed
a pneumatic cock, is inserted into an air-tight cask containing
a fluid, and the key properly adjusted, the air enters at the
upper perforation, and the fluid passes out at the lower one,
with a velocity proportionate to the depth of the delivering
orifice of the cock at F, below the point C, at which the
air enters the cask. It may be worthy of observation, that
as long as there is a sufficient quantity of fluid in the cask, to
cover the orifices C, D, of the pneumatic cock, the velocity
of its efflux will be always equable, not being dependent
on the height of the fluid in the cask, but invariably propor-
tionate to the depth of the point F, at which the fluid is emit-
ted from the cock, below the point C, at which the air enters
the cask. Hence if it be desired to augment the velocity of
efflux, it may be effected by encreasing the length of the
nozzle F* — For if a line be supposed to be drawn from the ori-
fice C of the upper perforation, to the surface G of the fluid in
the cask, and another be imagined to be let fall from the sur-
face of the fluid, to D the orifice of the lower perforation, and
from thence to be extended through the lower perforation to
the nozzle of the cock at F, these lines may be considered as
marking out the courses of two unequal columns of the fluid
acting on each other as if contained within the legs of a
syphon. Consequently the shorter column will be displaced
by the longer one, with a velocity proportionate to the excess
of the perpendicular depth of the latter, which is obviously
the same with the perpendicular depth of the nozzle F, below
C, the point at which the air enters the cask. But the velocity
with which the longer column G, D, E, F, displaces the
shorter column C, G, or with which it enables the air to dis-
Slace it, and with which it is itself thereby enabled to descend
irough the lower perforation to the point of emission, must
evidently be the same with the velocity of efflux. Of course
this last must be in proportion, to the excess of the perpendicu-
lar depth of the longer column, which is the same with the
depth of F, below C,
Digitized by
Google
PNEUMATIC COCK. 107
The cock is of a bended form, that the key may be situated
below the receiving orifice D, 50 that on Opening the cock,
the fluid may run into the nozzle with sufficient rapidity to fill
its full bore ; which is essential to the principle of the instru-
ment. For the same reason the bore of the nozzle tapers a
little from the key at E, towards the orifice at F.
. As the fixed air generated within air-tight casks containing
vinous liquors; sometimes more than counteracts the pressure of
the atmosphere, and forces these fluids through every aperture
which may be made for them; it is in such cases necessary
while the cock remains open, to close the orifice A, of the up-
per perforation with the thumb, which may be done with great
facility, while the fingers are employed in holding the key.
That the structure of the cock may be compleatly under-
stood, Fig. 2, affords a separate view of the key, and of those
parts of the upp£ r and lower perforations, which lie within it.
Fig. 3, is a representation of a cock executed in wood, on
the same principle with that above described. The dotted
lines A B C, D E F, represents the tracks of the upper and
lower perforations, of which the latter comes out through the
key. This is made unusually long in order to depress the de-
livering orifice, and thereby increase the velocity of efflux.
The lower perforation is considerably inclined below^ the hori-
zontal line, in order that on opening the cock the fluid may
run into the key with rapidity sufficient to fill the bore full.
This as before observed being essential to the action of the
pneumatic cock, Fig. 4, is a separate view of the wooden
key, with the parts of the perforations which lie within it*
Digitized by
Google
108 NEW SPECIES OF
No. XXII.
Some account of a New Species of North American Lizard. By
Dr% Barton*
Read, April 15th, 1803.
THE species of Lizard of which I propose to give the
Philosophical Society some account, and of which I have the
satisfaction of showing them not only a good drawing but alsa
a living specimen, was found at the distance of a few miles
from the city of Philadelphia, about eight weeks ago. It is
six inches and eight tenths of an inch in length from the end
of the nose to the extremity of the tail. The nose is very blunt,,
the head forming nearly an oval. The whole body is re-
markably smooth, somewhat glutinous to the touch, and of a
dirty purplish colour, a good deal similar to that of our fox-
grape. The whole under side of the body, the legs, the tail,
&c. is of a livid purplish colour, and very abundandy besprink-
led over with blueish white spots, of different sizes, but all of
them very minute. The upper part of the body is beauti-
fully marked with a number of spots of a fine yellow colour.
These spots are very irregularly distributed over the animal.
The most anterior of them are adjacent to the right eye. There
are no corresponding spots in the immediate vicinity of the
left eye. Some of the spots are nearly round, others are irre-
gularly oval. They are entirely confined to the upper part
and to the sides of the body of the animal, including the legs-
The largest of these spots is about the eighth of an inch ia
diameter.
A very minute description of the animal does not seem ne-
cessary, as the drawing in Plate IV. Fig. 6. will convey a much
better idea of it than the most finished description. In addition
to what I have already said, I shall therefore only observe, that
the mouth is very large, being more than half the length of the
head ; that the legs and feet are very small for the bulk of the
animal ; that the fore-feet are furnished with four toes, and the
Digitized by
Google
NORTH AMERICAN LIZARD. 109
bind feet with five toes; all of which are unarmed or destitute
of nails. The toes are marked transversely with blackish lines.
The tail is not round, but considerably compressed sideways.
This species of lizard is unnoticed by Linnaeus, Gmelin, La
C£pede, Shaw, or any other of the later writers (so far as I
know) on the class of amphibia. It may* from merely attend-
ing to the description, be mistaken for the Lacerta punctata of
Linnaeus, from which, however, it differs in several essential
respects. The general ground colour of the two animals is very
different : that of the punctata is brown (carpus fuscum, J while
that of this lacerta is a dirty purple or violet. The throat, the
sides and the belly of the punctata are of a dull yellow, while
the underside of this lacerta are a livid purplish. If these
were the only differences, I should not urge the difference of
species, for colour is known to be a very variable feature of ani-
mals, though I believe not remarkably so -in the tribe of lizards.
The two animals are spotted, but the spots of the lacerta punc-
tata are white : those of this species a fine yellow. It would
appear from Catesby's figure and description of the lacerta
punctata, that the spots of this species are confined to the back
and tail ; there being a double row upon the back and a single
one upon the tail. In my lacerta, the yellow spots are found
upon the h6ad and legs as well as upon the back and tail, and
they are very irregularly distributed. Catesby makes no men-
tion of any small ash-coloured spots, of which there is a great
number upon the belly and sides of my lacerta. Lastly^ the
tail of the lacerta punctata is round (cauda teres )% whereas the
tail of the animal which 1 describe is manifestly compressed.
Upon the whole, I do not hesitate to conclude, that the lacerta
punctata and my lacerta are two distinct species. Believing this
to be the case* I should be glad to be able to give an appropriate
specific name to the new species. I cannot, at present, think of a
better than one derived from the prevailing colour of the animal,
a colour inclining to violet or purplish. I beg leave, therefore,
to. name it Lacerta subviolacea, and would thus describe it for
the benefit of systematic writers, who often prefer a short des-
cription (ever liable, where the species of a family are nume-
rous, to mislead) to one more minute and extensive ;
Digitized by
Google
110 NEW SPECIES OF
Lacerta subviolacea: cauda compressa, mediocri; corpora
subviolaceo, glabro, viscido, poroso ; maculis flavis cinereisque
vario ; palmis tetradactylis, plantis pentadactylis, omnibus mu-
ticis.
The Lacerta subviolacea belongs to that section of the fami-
ly of lizards, which are designated by the name of Salaman-
ders (Salamandra*.) Its natural position in the system will be
near to the Lacerta Salamandra, to which, in several respects, it
is closely allied. Like that species, it emits from different
parts of its body, but particularly from the upper part of its
tail, a milk-like fluid, which escapes from the animal in globules
or drops of different sizes. This fluid is extremely glutinous,
or adhesive. It does not seem to be of a gummous nature, for
it is insoluble in water, but appears to be rapidly dissolved by
alcohol. The emission of this fluid seems to be a voluntary
act ; for when it is irritated, the animal discharges it in large
quantities.
I was desirous of knowing the effects of this fluid upon the
system. With this view, I have made a few experiments,
which are as yet too incomplete to be fully depended upon.
The following experiments, however, have been made with care.
Having pressed out from the tail of the animal, a small por-
tion of tfce white fluid, I applied it lo my tongue. It com-
municated almost instantaneously, the impression of a powerful
astringent, but was succeeded, in a very snort time, by a sense
of causticity, and a taste very similar to that of the muriate of
mercury, or corrosive sublimate. This last impression, notwith-
standing repeated washings of the mouth, remained upon the
tongue the greater part of a day. It occasioned a plentiful
discharge of saliva from the mouth. Some of my pupils
and other gendemen repeated the experiment, and with simi-
lar effects.
The peculiar taste, and particularly the salivation, occasioned
by this North-American lizard, induce me to believe, that there
is more foundation than many physicians have imagined, ibr
<the reports of the Spanish and other physicians, concerning
*" Salamandra* coipore nudo, pedibua muticia, pilau* totndactjtii," GomUb.
Digitized by
Google
NORTH AMERICAN LIZARD. Ill
the salivating property of certain species of lizards, and for
believing, that such lizards, eaten raw, as they are directed to
be, may have been found really useful, in the treatment of
siphylis, and other diseases^ On this curious subject, in addi-
tion to what is to be met with in different foreign publications,
I received some interesting information from my learned and
amiable friend, the late Mr. Julius Von Rohr, when he was
in Philadelphia, in the year 1793. The facts communicated
to me by that gentleman,, have left me no room to doubt,
that the uncooked flesh of some species of lizards in South-
America and in the West-Indies, induce a genuine salivation,
of some continuance, and which has been found beneficial
in lepra, and other diseases, particularly those of a cutaneous
nature.
I am sorry, that my account of this species of lizard is thus ne-
cessarily defective. Though the animal has been in my pos-
session for several weeks, I hare not been able to. make many
observations of consequence concerning it. It appears to be
an harmless animal, unless, which is highly probable, it may
sometimes prove injurious by emitting the white fluid which
I have mentioned. Though it has been much irritated by me,
it has never shown a disposition to bite. It seems extremely
unwilling to meet the light or heat of the day. When it is
removed from the wet moss, in which I have kept it, it
soon betakes itself to the same habitation, and nearly conceals
itself by drawing the moss about it I am not certain, that
it has eaten any thing since it came into my possession. I
have, however, repeatedly given it worms and other animals,
I believe it to be a water lizard, as it is so fond of affecting the
wet moss. Besides, when I put it into a bason of water, it
swarm with great rapidity and ease.
I weighed this animal at different times. On the 24th of
March, I found the weight to be 342 grains. In somewhat
less than an hour after, it weighed only S24 grains, having
lost eighteen grains. It had been recently taken out of the
W&ter. Its greatest weight was that which I have first montioned*.
It is a weH-ascertained fact, however, that the weight of many
• Or five drams, and forty-two grains,
Digitized by
Google
.JU2 ^KEJBT JSPKCTRS-OF UZAJtD. .
of the amphibia, particularly the frogs and lizards, is very
various at different times, even in the course of the same day
or hour. This difference of weight is often entirely indepen-
dent on any aliment, whether solid or fluid, being taken into
the stomach, and must be ascribed to the absorption of
water.
Philadelphia, April 15th, 180&
POSTSCRIPT.
I believe all the smaller species of lizards, as well those
which have a rougher, as those with a smoother skin, shed
their coats annually. I think every species sheds its -skin at
least once every year. Perhaps, some species cast their coats
twice a year, and tome facts lead me to believe, that different
individuals of the same species vary not, a little h* this respect.
The same irregularity is observable in the rattle-snake (Crotalus
horridus), as I know from my own observations." .. *^ ^
After the preceeding paper was read to the ^K:iet^;^|}^>
an opportunity of marking the progress of the d^uamati0&a!-;
or shedding of the skin of the lacerta subviolacea.\ On the' *
27th of April, it was first observed, that this process had com-
menced. The first appearance of the change was on the tail.
At 12 o'clock, the skin began to loosen on the side of the
thorax. At 4 o'clock it extended from the thorax to the tail,
where it had commenced.
~2Sth. -This -morning, the skin entirely- peeled -off the ta& —
and the abdomen, and was scattered about in shrivelled por-
tions. At 4f o'clock in the afternoon, the skin of the feet was
drawn off entire, having the appearance of a glove.
29th. This morning, the animal had entirely lost its skin.
r
I have now reason to believe, that the lizard never ate any
thing during the whole of the time it continued in my pos-
session^
Digitized by
Google
^p^^^p^fc
rt
?T&
— &
I
I
* .
■*p •.;*-
gitVze<
Google
■ s
r
Digitized by
Google
[ 1" ]
No. XXIII
Continuation of Astronomical Observations, made at Lancaster,
Pennsylvania. In a letter from Andrew Ellicott, Esq. to R.
Patterson.
Read 00. 7th, 1803.
Lancaster 0&. 1st, 18Q3.
DEAR SIR,
I now forward a continuation of my astronomical obser-
vations, made at this place : they would have been more nu-
merous had the weather permitted. The season has been re-
markably unfavourable for such pursuits.
The results of the observations on the solar eclipse of the
21st of February, the occultations the 30th of March, 27th
of May, and 23d of September last, I have not as yet
had time to make out : — the duties of my office admitting
of but litde leisure for scientific enquiries. — But to the obser-
vations.
Feb. 21st, 1803. Observations on the beginning of a solar
eclipse.
The day was cloudy till about half an hour before the be-
ginning of the eclipse; on which account I had made no
preparations to observe it. — A few minutes before the time cal-
culated for the beginning, I directed the telescope to the
sun; the lower limb was very tremulous, and indented in many
places by a waving, serpentine motion, which will frequendy
be observed when the sun is near the horizon : — these indents,
combined with other causes, produced an uncertainty of a
few seconds, (though probably not more than 10 or 12) in
the beginning, which I observed at 5h 4' 57" mean time, or
4* 501 57" apparent time.
*
Digitized by
Google
114 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
23d. Took the pendulum with the wooden rod from my
clock, and substituted a grid-iron one, which I had that day-
completed .
March 1st. Immersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, ob-^
served at 8h 31' 13" meantime, or 8b 18' 31" apparent time.
The planet tremulous, and the belts indistinct: — magnifying
power 100. At 9 o'clock in the evening the thermometer
stood at 6°.
11th. Immersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
10h 43' S5" mean time, or 10* 33' 18" apparent time: — night
remarkably fine: — magnifying power 100.
19th. Immersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
9* 18; 39" mean time, or 9* 10' 38" apparent time. — The
evening hazy; on which account, I think, that at least SO*
ought to be added to the observed time of the immersion;
which I shall therefore do in comparing the result of this
observation with those of the other satellites: — magnifying
power 100.
29th. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
7* 48' 16" mean time, or 7h 43' 18" apparent time: — the
planet and satellites well defined, and very steady : — magni-
fying power 100.
30th. Observations on the occultation of * n by the moon.
h I II h f it
Immersion at 8 25 8 "> mMn ^ C 8 20 29 ^.^ . ..
Emersion at 9 45 U J «» time, or£9 ^ ^ £ apparent time,
The above time of the emersion nlay possibly be 5 or 6
seconds too late; — not having my attention directed to the pre-
cise spot where the moon's limb left the star; but, when I
discovered it, the light of the star and the moon's limb appear-
ed to be nearly in contact. It is however to be observed, that
when die emersions happen on the moon's enlightened limb,
the observations may generally be considered doubtful, a few
seconds*.
* Lorsque la lune a passe* I'opposition, sa partie orientate est {claiief, sa partie occidentak est
obscure ; ainsi les immersions se font dans la partie eclairel, et leg Emersions se font dans la partM
•bsure j c' est-a-dire, a gauche, dans une lunette astronomi^ue— Jc crois <{wc ce font ti les seulea
Digitized by
Google
MADE AT LANCASTER. 115
April 5th. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed
at 10* 23' 29" mean time, or 10h 20' 41", apparent time: —
night very clear and the belts distinct: — magnifying power
100.
9th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
9h 9' 59" mean time, or 9h 8' 20" apparent time: — night
clear, and belts distinct: — magnifying power 100.
22d. Immersion of the 4th satellite of Jupiter, observed at
12h 41' 19" mean time, or 12h 42' 54" apparent time. At
the time this observation Was made, the night was very serene
and clear : — four belts were distinctly defined on the body of
the planet :— magnifying power 100.
Emersion of the above satellite was observed at 14h 52' 34"
mean time, or 14h 54' 10" apparent time. — The night had
become a little hazy, and the belts were scarcely discernable.
— The satellite appeared for a few seconds, and then became in-
visible for more than a minute. From the state of the atmos-
phere, and the slow manner in which the satellite acquired its
light, owing to its oblique way through the shadow of Jupiter,
it is my opinion, that at least 2 minutes should be deducted
from the observed time of the emersion; which deduction I
shall accordingly use in making out the result of the observa-
tion.
May 2d. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed
at 9h 21' 34" mean time, or 9h 24' 46" apparent time: —
night clear, and belts distinct:— magnifying power 100.
9th. Emersion of the 4th satellite of Jupiter, observed at
8h 39' 28" mean time, or 8h 43' 17" apparent time. — The
planet and satellites were well defined, and the observation one
of the most satisfactory I have made at this placa: — magnify-
ing power 100.
Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at 11^ 15'
46" mean time, or llh 19' 35" apparent time. This eve-
ning I began to pay attention to the decrease of Saturn's
ring.
emersions dont on puisse £tre bien assure; car quand 1' etoile sort de la partie e clairec de lalune, ia
lumiere, trop foible par rapport a ceOe de la lune, ne se distingue pas facilement au premier in-
stant de 1* emersion.
Astronomic parla Landc art. 1990.
Digitized by
Google
.116 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
llth. Saturn's ring well defined; the ansae are evidently di-
minishing : — two satellites visible.
14th. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
12h 4 11 54" mean time, or 12h 45' 52" apparent time : — night
clear: — magnifying power 100.
16th. Saturn's ring well defined: — the ansae not perceptibly
diminished since the 1 1th.
27th. Occultation of a star, supposed to be f Leonis (&)
observed at 8h 17' 53" mean time, or 8h 21' 10" apparent
time.
Saturn's ring well defined : — the ansae decreasing, and appear
more luminous towards their extremities than near the body
of Jupiter : two satellites very distinct.
. June 6th. The night very clear and fine; Saturn's ring was
particularly attended to: the ansae appeared more luminous
and sparkling toward their extremities, than near the body of
the planet:— three satellites were visible.
9th. Saturn's ring yet visible :— the ansae were distinct during
the twilight, but faint afterwards.
13th. Immersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter, observed at
9h V 56" mean time, or 9h 8' 25" apparent time: — the planet
and satellites tolerably distinct: — magnifying power 100.
15th. Saturn's ring decreasing: the ansae were scarcely d^-
scernable after the end of twilight.
17th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, observed at
9h 45' 43" mean time, or 9h 45' 21" apparent time. — The
night clear, and the planet and satellites well defined: — mag-
nifying power 100.
Saturn's ring very faint:— the ansae were invisible after the
end of twilight.
18th. Saturn's ring more faint than last evening: the ansae
disappeared before the end of twilight.
21st. Saturn's ring almost invisible :~the ansae would fre-
quently disappear for whole minutes, and then become visible
for a few minutes more.
22d. The ring of Saturn has almost disappeared : the western
ansa only visible, and that for but a few seconds at a time.
Digitized by
Google
MADE AT LANCASTER. 117
23d. The ring of Saturn invisible, though I looked for it
<w\th both telescopes* during the twilight, and half an hour
after. By the theory of Mr. Sejour, the disappearance of the
ring ought to have taken place on the £8thf ; and, perhaps,
with better telescopes, that would have been the case; for
much depends upon the goodness of those instruments, and
the state of the atmosphere at the time of making the obser-
vations.— With Mr. HerscheFs large telescope there is no real
disappearance. It is likewise possible, that the difference be-
tween the disappearance as resulting from the theory, and ob-
servation, may, in part, be owing to a small retrogade motion
, in the nodes of the ring.
Sept. ^J3d. The moon occulted a star at S11 43' 51" mean
time, or 8h 51' 28" apparent time. The star is in the con-
stellation of Sagittarius (/), and supposed to be the one num-
bered 712 in Mayer's catalogue: — it is of the 6th magnitude:
the star appeared to remain well defined 4 or 5 seconds on the
moon's limb, but the disappearance was instantaneous.
I shall now, after a preliminary observation, proceed to
$tate the results of the foregoing observations on the eclipses
of Jupiter's satellites, as deduced both from Mr. Delambre's
tables, and the British nautical almanac. — As a standard of
comparison I shaii consider the correct longitude of Lancas-
ter to be 5h 5' 4" west, from the observatory at Greenwich;
and which I am persuaded will not be found many seconds
erroneous;}:.
Long, by Delambre's tables. Long, by the naut. almanac
h t it h / //
1803, March 1st. Immer. 1st sat. 5 5 21 5 5 58
too great 17 too great 54
11th. Immer. 2dsat. 5443 5 6 28
too small ,21 too great • . . 1 24
* One of them a Reflector with a magnifying power of 300.
f Essai sur les phcnomdnes relatifs aux disparitions penodiques de 1' anneau de Saturn. Par
M. Dhttu Da Sejour. Pages 165 & 166, .
| Note, Agreeably to the tables of Mr. Delambre, the longitude of Lancaster, by a mean of
4he five observations on the eclipses of the 1st satellite of Jupiter, appears to be 5h 5' 10" west
from Greenwich ; which exceeds the assumed standard 6;/ :— And if a mean of all the determina-
tions, agreeably to the same tables, be taken collectively, the longitude will be 5h 5' 4" west from
Greenwich, which agrees exactly with the assumed standard.
Digitized by
Google
118 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
h / if % r *
19th..Immer. 3d sat. 5 5 27 5 13 55
too great. 23 too great 8 51
59th. Emer. 2d sat. . . 5 5 20 5 5 42
too great 16 too great 38
April 5th. Emer. 2d sat. 5522 5 540
toogjreat 18 . . . , . too great 36
9th. Emer. 1st sat. 55 4 5 540
too great 0 ..... too great. 36
22d. Immer.4thsat*. 53 28 44430
too small I 36 too small. 20 34
do. Emer.do. 5 4 16 5 6 55
too .small. ..... 48 too great 1 51
May 2d. Emer. 1st sat. 5 5 1 5 5 38
too small 3 too great 34
9th. Emer. 4th sat. 5 6 26 5 11 23
too great. ... 1 22 ..... too great 6 19
do. 1st sat, 5 5 16 : 5 6 4
too great. ..;... 12 too great 10
14th. Emer. 2d sat. 5 5 30 ....... 5 5 38
too great 26 too great 34
June 13th. Immer. 3d sat. 54 41 513 1
too small. ...... 23 too great 7 ST
17th. Emer. 1st sat. 559 5 5 58
too great. . ., 5 too great 54
On the 23d qf February the pendulum with a wooden rod
was taken from the clock and replaced by a grid-iron one ;
but, owing to the unfavourable situation of the clock, I did
not expect to derive any material advantage from the change;
in this however I have been agreeably disappointed; the ex-
treme variations from the mean rate of going for the whole
year, will not amount to 2 seconds, notwithstanding the con-
• The theory of the 4th satellite of Jupiter is a subject of peculiar nicety, and has required great
labour to bring it to its present degree of perfection ; for which we are principally indebted to the
genius, and industry of Mr. Delambre. An error so small in the inclination of the orbit of this
planet, or in the place of the nodes, as to be scarcely distinguished from the unavoidable errors of
observation, when the satellite passes through the center of Jupiter's shadow, will become very
considerable as It is leaving it at either pole ; because, those errors increase nearly in the ratio of
the squares of the satellite's distances from the center of the shadow. From the immersion, and
emersion of April 22d, to which this note refers, it appears, that the inclination of the orbit of this
satellite, is either stated too small in the theory used by the computers of the British nautical alma*
nac> or is subject to changes not yet introduced into these tables.
Digitized by
Google
MADE AT LANCASTER.
119
stent jaring of the building by the shutting of the doors be-
longing to it.
I am, Sir, with great esteem,
your friend and humble servant,
ANDREW ELLICOTT.
Mr. Robert Patterson,
V. P. of the A.
tterson, )
L. P. S. j
No. XXIV.
Observations and Experiments relating to equivocal, or spontaneous,
Generation. By J. Priestley, L. L. D. F. R. S.
Read, Nov. 18th, 1803.
THERE is nothing in modern philosophy that appears to
me so extraordinary* as the revival of what has long been con-
sidered as the exploded doctrine of equivocal, or, as Dr. Darwin
calls it, spontaneous generation*; by which is meant the produc-
tion of organized bodies from substances that have no organi-
zation, as plants and animals from no pre-existing germs of the
same kinds, plants without seeds, and animals without sexual
intercourse.
The germ of an organized body, the seed of a plant, or
the embrio of an animal, in its first discoverable state, is now
• Thus the tall oak, the giant of the wood,
Which bears Britannia's thunders on the flood ;
The whale, unmeasured monster of the main,
The lordly lion, monarch of the plain,
The eagle soaring in the realms of air,
Whose eyeundazzled drinks the solar glare,
Imperious man, who rules the bestial crowd,
Of language, reason, and reflection proud,
With brow erect who scorns this earthly sod,
And styles himself the image of his God ;
Arose from rudiments of form and sense,
An embrion point, or microscopic ens ! ! '.
Temple of Nature*
Digitized by
Google
120 ON EQUIVOCAL GENERATION.
found to be the future plant or animal in miniature, contain-
ing every thing essential to it when full grown, only requiring
to have the several organs enlarged, and the interstices filled
with extraneous nutritious matter. When the external form
undergoes the greatest change, as from an aquatic insect to a
flying gnat, a caterpillar to a crysalis, a crysalis to a butteifly,
or a tadpole to a frog, there is nothing new in the organization;
all the parts of the gnat, the butterfly, and the frog, having
really existed, though not appearing to the common observer
in the forms in which they are first seen. In like manner,
every thing essential to the oak is found in the acorn.
It is now, however, maintained that bodies as exquisitely
organized as any that we are acquainted with (for this is true
of the smallest insect, as well as of the largest animal) arise,
without the interposition of a creative power, from substances
that have no organization at all, from mere brute matter— earth*
water, or mucilage, in a certain degree of heat. Sometimes
the term organic particles is made use of, as the origin of the
plants and animals that are said to be produced this way; but
as it is without meaning, the germs of those specific plants
and animals which are said to come from them, and a great
variety of these organized bodies are said to arise from the same
organic particles, the case is not materially different. Still,
completely organized bodies, of specific kinds, are maintain-
ed to be produced from substances that could not have any na-
tural connexion with them, or particular relation to them.
And this I assert is nothing less than the production of an
effect without any adequate cause. If the organic particle,
from which an oak is produced be not precisely an acorn,
the production of it from any thing else is as much a miracle,
and out of the course of nature, as if it had come from a bean,
or a pea, or absolutely from nothing at all; and if miracles
be denied, (as they are, I believe, by all the advocates for
this doctrine of equivocal generation,) these plants and animals,
completely organized as they are found to be, as well adopted
to their destined places and uses in the general system as the
largest plants and animals, have no intelligent cause whatever,
which is unquestionably atheism. For if one part of the sys-
Digitized by
Google
ON EQUIVOCAL GENERATION. 121
tem of nature does not require an intelligent cause, neither
does any other part, or the whole.
As Dr. Darwin presses my observations on the green matter,
on which I formerly made some experiments, as producing
dephlogisticated air by the influence of light, into the service of
his hypothesis; I have this last summer given some attention to
them, and have diversified them with that view; and from
these it will appear that they are far from serving his purpose;
since none of this green matter, which he does not doubt to
be a vegetable, though of the smallest kind, is produced in
any water, though ever so proper for it, unless its surface has
been more or less exposed to the atmosphere, from which,
consequendy, the invisible seeds of this vegetable may come.
He says (Temple of Nature, notes p. 4. J " not only mi-
g€ croscopic animals appear to be produced by a spontaneous
« vital process, and these quickly improve by solitary genera-
" tion, like the buds of trees, or like the polypus and aphis,
" but there is one vegetable body which appears to be produ-
44 ced by a spontaneous vital^ process, and is believed to be
44 propagated and. enlarged in so short a time by solitary gene-
44 ration, as to become visible to the naked eye. I mean the
gt green vegetable matter first attended to by Dr. Priesdey, and
44 called by him conferva fontinalis. The proofs that this material
€€ is a vegetable are from its giving up so much oxygen when
" exposed to the sun shine, as it grows in water, and from its
" green colour/'
" D. Ingenhou? asserts that by filling a bottle with well-
" water, and inverting it immediately into a bason of well-
4g water, this green vegetable is formed in great quantity;
44 and he believes that the water itself, or some substance coi>-
44 tained in the water, is converted into this kind of vegetation
" which then quickly propagates itself/*
" Mr. Girtanner asserts that this green vegetable matter is
44 not produced by water and heat alone, but requires the sun's
44 light for this purpose, as he observed by many experiments,
" and thinks it arises from decomposing water deprived of
44 a part of its oxygen ; and he laughs at Dr. Priestley for be-
" lieving that the seeds of this conferva, and the parents of
Digitized by
Google
12$ ON EQUIVOCAL GENE* ATI OtfV
* microscopic animals, exist universally in the atmosphere, ancf
" penetrate the sides of glass jars/' Pliilosophical Magazine fot
May 1800.
. He further says, p. 9, " The green vegetable matter of Dr;
" Priestley, which is universally produced in stagnant water,
" and the mucor, or mouldiness^ which is seen on the surface
" of all putrid vegetable and animal matter, have probably
u no parents,, but a spontaneous origin from the congress of
" the decomposing organic articles, and afterwards propagate
u themselves/*
Let us now compare this language with that of nature in my
experiments. On the first of July I placed in the open air
several vessels containing pump-water, two of them covered
with olive oil* one in a phial with a ground glass stopper*
one with a loose tin cover, and the rest with the surface of
the water exposed to the atmosphere; and having found
(as may be seen in the account of my former experiment
on this green matter) that it was produced with the great-
est facility, and in the greatest abundance, when a small
quantity of vegetable matter, especially thin slices of raw pota-
toes, was put into the water, I put equal quantities, viz. twenty
grains of potatoe, into each of the larger vessels and ten into
each of the smaller. Into two very large decanters, the
mouths of which were narrow, I put fifty grains of the same,
one of them having oil on its surface, and the other none.
At the same time having filled a large phial with the same
water, I inverted it in a vessel of mercury.
In about a week the wide mouthed open vessel began to
have green matter, and the large decanter with the narrow
mouth had the same appearance in three weeks. On the first
of August the vessel which had a loose tin cover, coming
about half an inch below its edge, had a slight tinge of green*
and on the first of September the phial with the ground glass
stopper (but which, appeared by-some of the water escaping,
not to fit exactly) began to have green matter. But none of
the vessels that were covered with oil,, or that which had iis
mouth inverted in mercury, had any green matter at all on the
12th of September; when, having waited as I thought long
enough, I put an end to the experiment.
Digitized by
Google
4m EtttmrocAL generation 12$
Here we see that the wider was the mouth 6f the vessel,
the sooner did the green matter appear in it; but that in time
the germ (or whatever it may be called that produced it) found
its way through the smallest apertures, and were ascended into
ihe vessel with the tin carer before it could descend into it ;
-but that when all access to the water was precluded by a cover-
ing of oil, or a quantity of mercury, no green matter was
produced. These experiments, therefore, are for from fa-
vouring the doctrine of spontaneous generation, but are per-
fectly agreeable lo the supposition that the seeds of this small
wgetable float in the air, and insinuate themselves into wate*
ftf a kind proper for their growth, through the smallest aper-
tures.
Among the experimental facts, as Dr. Darwin calls them, in
the support of his hypothesis> he says, p. 3. "that one or
** more of four persons, whom he names, put some boiling
* veal broth into a phial previously heated in the fire, and
m sealing it up hermetically, or with wax, observed it to be
■" replete with animalcules in three or four days." But lie
should have said which oi these four persons made the expe-
riment, and have referred to the passage in their writings in
which it is mentioned. Otherwise no judgment can be formed
of its accuracy. And why did not the Doctor repeat the ex-
|>erinient himself, since it is so easily done ? Besides, we know
ihat even the heat of boiling water will not destroy some kinds
of insects, and probably much less the eggs, or embryo's, of
them.
He adds (ib.) that u to suppose the eggs of former micro-
** scopic animals to float in the atmosphere, and pass through
" the sealed glass phial, is so contrary to apparent nature, as
** to be totally incredible." But who does, or would suppose
this. That various animalcules, as well as the seeds of various
plants, invisible to us, do float in the atmosphere, is unques-
tionable ; but that they pass through glass I never heard before,
though in a preceeding paragraph it is ascribed to myself. Hfe
adds, " as the latter are viviparous, it is equally absurd to sup-
44 pose that their parents float universally in the atmosphere, to
* lay their young in paste, or vinegar/' To me, however,
Digitized by
Google
124 ON EQUIVOCAL GENERATION.
this does not appear to be at all impassible ; and it is observation
of facts, and not conjecture, that must determine the question
of probability.
" Some other fimg?' he says p. 9. " as those growing in
u close wine vaults, or others which arise from decaying trees,
u or rotten timber, may perhaps be owing to a similar sponta-
" neous production, and not previously exist as perfect organic
u. beings in the. juices of the wood, as some have supposed.
" In the same manner it would seem that the common escu-
u lent mushroom is produced from horse dung at any time,
u and in any place, as is the common practice of many gar-
" deners." This requires.no particular answer. Decaying
trees &c. may afford a proper nidus for the seeds of vegetable*
that are invisible to u§;.and that any of them previously exist
in the juices of the tree, was I believe, never supposed. The
horse dung also may afford a proper nidus for the seeds of the
mushroom. Besides these are only random observations, and
the. facts have never been investigated in an accurate philoso-
phical manner.
It is said by many, that the different kinds of worms which
are found in animal bodies have their origin there, and from
no worms of the same kinds, but from the unorganized mat-
ter of which our food consists. But according to later obser-
vations, most of these very worms have been found out of the
body, and therefore there is nothing improbable in the suppo-
sition of the seminal matter from which they came having
been, conveyed into the body in the food, &c. and if some of
them have been found out of the body, the rest may in time
be found out of it also. It is, besides, unworthy of philoso-
phers to draw important conclusions from mere ignorance.
Having recited these facts, and supposed facts, I shall con-
sider distinctly all that Dr. Darwin has advanced by way of
•argument in defence of the system that he has espoused.
. He supposes, what no person will deny, that " dead orga-
•4t .nic matter, or that which had contributed to the growth of
** vegetable and animal bodies, may by chemical attractions,
44 in the organs of plants and animals, contribute to the nou-
" rishment of other plants and animals." But he adds, p. 6.
Digitized by
Google
ON. EQUIVOCAL GENERATION, 125
m the same particles of organic matter may form spontaneous
u microscopic animals, or microscopic vegetables, by chemi-
" cal dissolutions, and new combinations of organic matter,
" in watery fluids with sufficient moisture."
But these microscopic vegetables and animals, there is every
reason to think, have as complete and exquisite an organic
structure as the larger plants and animals, and have as evident
marks of design in their organization, and therefore could not
have been formed by any decomposition or composition of
such dead matter, whether called organic or not, without the
interposition of an intelligent author. Besides, these microsco-
pic vegetables and animals are infinitely various, and therefore
could never arise from the same dead materials, in the same
circumstances, by the mere application of warmth and mois- "
ture. Each of these vegetables and animals must, according to
the analogy of nature, have proceeded from an organized
germ, containing all the necessary parts of the future plant
or animal, as well as the largest trees and animals, though
their minuteness elude our search, add though the manner
in which their seeds or germs are conveyed from place to
place be unknown to us. But the attention that is given
to this subject by ingenious naturalists is continually dis-
covering a greater analogy between these microscopic vege-
tables, and animals and those of the largest kinds. This ar-
gument from the production of minute plants and animals has
no force but from our ignorance.
" It is as difficult," he says, p. 7. u to understand the at-~
u traction of the parts of coutchouk, and other kinds of at-
" traction, as the spontaneous production of a fibre from de-
" composing animal or vegetable substances, which contracts
" in a similar manner, and this constitutes the primordia of
u life." But admitting that the power by which a fibre con-
tracts to be not more difficult to comprehend than other con-
tractions, and that fibres are the primordia of life, whence
comes the regular arrangement of these fibres, and the various
system of vessels formed by them, for the purposes of nutrition,
the propagation of the species, &c. in the complex structure
of these minute animals. There is nothing like that in thp
coutchouk, or any other substance that is not an animal.
Digitized by
Google
126 ON EfttflVOCAL oekeratiow.
Microscopic vegetables and animals remaining without any
visible sign of life months and years is no proof that they were
capable of deriving their origin from dead unorganized matter.
While their organization is not destroyed, the motions which
indicate life may be restored by proper degrees of heat and
moisture ; but this is not materially different from the case of
frogs and other animals, which discover no sign of life, a
great part of the winter, and reyiye with the warmth of
spring/
That any thing composing an animal or vegetable should,
after affording nutriment to other animals, attain some kind of
organization, or even vitality, may be admitted; because the
digestive powers of animals may not be able to destroy their
organization, or vitality. But if it remain uninjured, and be
afterwards revived, it cannot be any thing besides the very
same organization that it had before. So birds teed upon seeds,
which yet retain so much of their organization, and life, as
to be able to produce the plants from which they came, but
never any of a different kind. Beyond this no analogy in
nature can carry us.
u These microscopic organic bodies," he says, p. 6. " arc
4€ multiplied and enlarged by solitary re-production, without
44 sexual intercourse, till they acquire greater perfection, or
u new properties. Liewenhook observed in rain-water which
" had stood a few days, the smallest scarcely visible animal*
4i cules and in a few days more he observed others eight
u times as large." But this proves nothing more than an in-
crease in bulk, and no change of a small animal into a larger
of a different kind, which the argument requires. If it was
the same animal that assumed a new form, in a more advanced
state, it is no more than the case of a tadpole and a frog, or a
caterpillar and butterfly, That several insects are multiplied
without sexual intercourse is no proof of spontaneous generation.
Plants are several ways produced without seeds; and according
to Dr. Darwin's observations, this mode of animal re-production
has its limits. For that after a certain number of such gene-
rations the last discover the properties of sex, and then produce
others by sexual intercourse, so that it is probable, that if at
Digitized by
Google
ON EQOT VOCAL GENERATION. 187
that time they could be kept from sexual intercourse the re*
production would cease.
Dr. Darwin, and all other advocates for spontaneous gene*
ration, speaks of some animals as simple and others as complete,
some as imperfect and others as perfect; whereas, as far as we
can discover,' all animals, even the most minute that have been
examined, appear to be as perfect, and to have a structure as
wonderfully complicated, as the largest, though on account
of their minuteness, we cannot dissect them to so much ad-
vantage. Their organs are equally adapted to their situations
and occasions ; and what is more, they have as great a degree
of intelligence (which they discover by the methods of seeking
their food, avoiding, , or contending with their enemies) as the
largest animals: besides* it is never pretended that any large
species of animals^ though called imperfect* as crabs and
oysters, &c. are ever produced by spontaneous generation.
The larger kinds of the more perfect animals Dr. Darwin
does not pretend ta have ever been " produced immediately
u in this mode of spontaneous generation;" but he supposed,
what is even more improbable, viz. that "* vegetables and ant-
" mals improve by re-production; so that spontaneous vitality
" (p% 1.) is only to be looked for in the simplest organic be-
" ings, as in the smallest- miscroscopic animalcules, which peiv
u petually perhaps however enlarge themselves by re-produo-
" tion; and that the larger and more complicated animals
" have acquired their present perfection by succesive genera-
" tions, during an uncounted series of ages-"
By this he must have meant to insinuate, for it is not clearly
expressed (perhaps to avoid.the ridicule of it) that lions, horses*
and others, which he considers as more complicated animals,
though they are not more so than flies and other insects, may
have arisen from animals of different kinds* in the lowest state
of organization,, in fact, thai they were once nothing more thai*
microscopic animalcules.
But this is far from being analogous to any thing that we
observe in the course of nature. We see no plants or animals,
though ever so simple, growing to more than a certain size,
and producing tbeir Jike^ and never any others organized in a
Digitized by
Google
128 ON EQUIVOCAL GENERATION.
i *
different manner. Is it at all probable that lions, horses or ele-
phants, were ever any other than they now are ? Were they
originally microscopic ? And if they come to be what they
now are by successive generations, why does not the change
and improvement go on? Do we ever see any small animal be-
come a larger of a different kind ? Do any mice become rats,
rats become dogs, or wolves, wasps become hornets, &c. and
yet this is precisely the analogy that the hypothesis requires.
In order to obviate the prejudice against this doctrine of
spontaneous production, as favouring atheism, Dr. Darwin
says of the objectors, p. 1. " They do not recollect that
" God created all things which exist, and that these have
" been from the beginning in a perpetual state of improve-
" ment, which appears from the globe itself, as well as from
" the animals and vegetables which possess it. And lastly,
" that there is more dignity in our idea of the Supreme
" Author of all things, when we conceive Him to be the
" cause of causes, than the cause simply of the events
" which we see, if there can be any difference in infinity of
" power."
The Supreme Being is, no doubt, the cause of all causes;
but these causes have a regular connexion, which we are able
to trace; and if any thing be produced in any different man-
ner, we say it is not according to the course of nature, but a
miracle. The world is, no doubt, in a state of improvement;
but notwithstanding this, we see no change in the vegetable
or animal systems, nor does the history of the most remote
times favour the hypothesis. The plants and animals descri-
bed in the book of Job are the same that they are now, and
so are the dogs, asses, and lions &c. of Homer.
Vegetables and animals do not by any improvement, natural
or artificial, change into one another, or into vegetables and
animals of other species. It is, therefore, contrary to analogy,
or the established course of nature, that they should do so.
If miracles; which imply an omnipotent and designing power
(and which to the generality of mankind are the most stri-
king proofs of the existence of such a power, and a power
distinct from the visible parts of nature, the laws of which
Digitized by
Google
ON EQUIVOCAL GENERATION. 129
it counteracts) be denied, all changes that take place contrary
to the observed analogy of nature must be events without a
cause; and if one such event can take place, any others might,
and consequently the whole system might have had no supe-
rior designing cause ; and if there be any such thing as atheism,
this is certainly it
Dr. Darwin speaks of his organic particles as possessed of
certain appetencies, or powers, of attraction. But whence came
these powers, or any others, such as those of electricity, mag-
netism, &c. ? These powers discover as much wisdom, by their
adaptation to each other, and their use in the general system,
as the organic bodies which he supposes them to form ; so that
the supposition of these powers, which must have been impart-
ed ab extra, only removes the difficulty he wishes to get quit
of one step farther, and there it is left in as much force as ever.
There are still marks of design, and therefore the necessity of ,
a designing cause.
No. XXV.
Observations on the Discovery of Nitre, in common Salt, which had
been frequently mixed with Snow, in a Letter to Dr. Wistar, from
J. Priestley, L. L. D. P. R. S.
Read, December 2, 1803.
PEAR SIR,
WHEN I had the pleasure of seeing you at Northumber-
land, I mentioned a fact which I had just observed, but which
appeared to me so extraordinary, that I wished you not to
speak of it till I had more completely ascertained it. It was
the conversion of a quantity of common salt into nitre. But
having seen, in the last Medical Repository, an observation of
Dr. Mitchell's, which throws some light upon it, I think it
best upon the whole to acquaint experimentalists in general
with all that I know of the matter; that, as the experiments
must be made in the winter, they may take advantage of that
which is now approaching.
Digitized by
Google
130 NITRE DISCOVERED IN
In die winter of 1 799 1 made those experiments on the
production of air from the freezing of water, an account of which
is published in the 5th Vol. of the Transactions of the Philo-
sophical Society of Philadelphia, p. 36 ; And having made
use of the same salt, mixed with snow, in every experiment,
always evaporating the mixture till the salt was recovered dry,
I collected the salt when I had done with it, and put it into a
glass bottle, with a label expressing what it was, and what use
had been made of it.
This quantity of common salt having been frequently dis-
solved, and evaporated in an iron vessel, remained till the 26th
of last October ; when, having occasion to make a large quan-
tity of marine acid, and this salt appearing to be of little value,
I put to it an equal weight of acid of vitriol and about twice
the quantity of water, and began the distillation in the usual
way. But I was soon surprized to observe that red vapours
rose from it, first filling the retort, and then the adopter, &c.
and when the process was finished, returning to the retort, ex-
acdy as in the process for making spirit of nitre.
Not doubting, from this appearance, but that the produce
was the nitrous acid (though having used much water, the acid
was of course weak, and nearly colourless) I immediately
dissolved copper in it, and found that it yielded as pure nitrous
air as any that I had ever procured in the same way.
Examining the salt separately, I observed that when it was
thrown upon hot coals, whether those portions of it that were
white, or those that were brown from a mixture of the calx
of iron, it burned exacdy like nitre; so that from this appear-
ance, I should have concluded that it had been wholly so.
But that it contained some marine salt, and that the acid pro-
cured from it had a mixture of the marine acid, could not
well be doubted ; and this appeared to be the case both by the
acid becoming turbid by a mixture of the solution of silver in
nitrous acid, and by its dissolving gold with the application of
heat, so that it was a weak aqua regia.
This conversion of common salt into nitre appeared so ex-
traordinary, that I first thought there must have been some
mistake in the label, though few persons I believe are more
Digitized by
Google
COMMON SALT MIXED WITH SNOW. 131
careful in that respect than myself, But I never had any ni-
tre of that appearance, and least of all any that had in it a
mixture of common salt; so that I could not doubt but that
this was the same salt that I had used before for the pur-
pose above mentioned. That this change must have come
from the snow with which it had been dissolved, could not be
doubted; and therefore I resolved to repeat the experiment
with the next that should fall, but seeing that Dr. Mitchell
had procured an acid from hail stones, 1 was instantly deter-
mined to excite other persons to repeat the experiment as well
as myself, having now more confidence in my own.
What was the acid that Dr. Mitchell procured he did not
ascertain, mine was unquestionably the nitrous, and it must have
displaced that of the common salt by a superior affinity to its
base. This acid must be exceedingly volatile ; for I could not
produce the same effect by repeated solutions and evaporations
of the same kind of salt in snow water of long standing, a
quantity of which I have always had, to use occasionally in-
stead of distilled water.
The manner in which nitrous acid may be formed in the
atmosphere is easily explained on my hypothesis of the com-
position of that acid; since I have always procured it by the
de-composition of dephlogisticated and inflammable air, to-
gether with a small mixture of marine acid (which must there-
fore be formed from some of the same elements) as Mr. Cav-
endish procured it by the de-composition of dephlogisticated
air, both of us using electric sparks.
Now it is probable that, although most kinds of air, even
those that have no chemical affinity, will remain diffused
through each other, without any sensible separation, after be-
ing mixed together, yet in the upper regions of the atmos-
phere, above that of the winds, there may be a redundancy
of inflammable air, which is so much lighter than any other
kind of air, as Mr. Kirwan and others suppose, and that there
is a proportion of dephlogisticated air, in the same region can-
not be doubted. In this region there are many electrical ap-
pearances, as the aurora borealis, falling stars, he. and in the
lower parts of it thunder and lightening ; and by these means,
Digitized by
Google
132 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATION'S OF
the two kinds of air may be de-composed, and a highly de-
phlogisticated nitrous acid, as mine always was, procured. —
This, being formed, will, of course attach itself to any snow
or hail that may be forming in the same region at the same
time, and by this means be brought down to the earth ; con-
firming, in this unexpected manner, the vulgar opinion of
nitre being contained in snow. Wishing that a fact of so ex-
traordinary a nature, and which has probably more import-
ant consequences that I can foresee, may be farther investi-
gated by your presenting this communication to the Philoso-
phical Society*
I am, Dear Sir,
Your's sincerely, &c.
JOSEPH PRIESTLEY.
Northnmbciiand, Nor. 21st, 1603;
Dr. C. Wistar, one of the \
V. P. of the A. P. S.J
No- XXVI.
A Letter on the supposed Fortifications of the Western Country, from
Bishop Madison of Virginia to Dr. Barton.
Read Dec 16th, 1801
DEAR SIR,
HAVING lately visited that beautiful river, the Kanha-
wa, and a considerable part of the country, within its neigh-
bourhood, an opportunity was afforded of examining with at-
tention some of those remarkable phenomena, which there
present themselves, and which have been so much the subject
of conversation, and of literary discussion. To remove error
of whatever kind, is, in effect, to promote the progress of
intelligence; with this view, I will endeavour to prove to you,
that my journey has enabled me to strike one, at least, from
Digitized by
Google
THE WESTERN COUNTRY. 135
that long catalogue, which so often tortures human iage-,
nuity.
You have often heard of those remarkable fortifications
with which the western country abounds; and you know
also, how much it has puzzled some of our literati, who sup-
posed themselves, no doubt, most profound in historical, geo-
graphical and philosophical lore, to give a satisfactory account
of such surprising monuments of military labour and art. Some
have called to their aid the bold and indefatigable Ferdinand
Soto; others, the fabulous Welch Prince of the 12th, century;
and all have made a thousand conjectures, as lifeless as either
Soto, or the Prince, Had they first examined into the fact,
and endeavoured to settle this most essential pre-requisite, they
would soon have seen, that the inquiry might be very easily
terminated; and, that what had so greatly excited the admira-
tion of the curious, existed only in their own imaginations. No
one was more impressed, than myself with the general opinion,
that there did exist regular and extensive fortifications, of great
antiquity, in many parts of that vast country, which is watered
by the various tributary streams of the Ohio, and the Mississippi.
The first specimen which I beheld, was examined with an ar-
dent curiosity, and with a full conviction, that it was the work
of a people, skilled in the means of military defence. The
appearance is imposing; the mind seems to acquiesce in the
current opinion, and more disposed to join in a fruitless admi-
ration, than to question the reality of those fortifications. But,
as my observations were extended, and new specimens daily
presented themselves, the delusion vanished ; I became con-
vinced, that those works were not fortifications, and never had
the smallest relation to military defence. The reasons upon
which this conviction, so contrary to that which has been
generally received, was founded, I shall now submit to your
consideration. Only, let me first observe, that those supposed
fortifications differ as to area and form. Some are found
upon the banks of rivers, presenting a semirellipse, the greater
axis running along the banks: others are nearly circular, re-
mote from water, and small; their diameters seldom exceeding
forty or fifty yards* The first of these species is the largest;
Digitized by
Google
134 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATIONS OF
their longer axis, at a mean rate, may be estimated at 250
yards; their shorter, at 200 or 220. It is said, and I believe
upon good authority, that some have been found large enough
to comprehend 50 acres, and even more. Some are also
reported to be square; but I did not see any of that form. I
shall confine myself to those which I have seen, and which
are to be met with in the low grounds of the rivers Kanhawa,
Elk, and Guyandot, or their adjacent uplands; though I am
persuaded, the conclusion which I undertake to establish will
be applicable to all those works, which have been dignified
with the appellation of fortifications, in whatever part of the
western country they may be found ; since, from the informa-
tion which I have obtained, there are certain striking features
in which they all agree, and which indicate one common
origin and destination.
1. Those works were not designed for fortifications, because
many of them have the ditch within the enclosure, and be-
cause, the earth thrown up, or the supposed parapet, wants
the elevation necessary for a defensive work. Both these cir-
cumstances occur, without exception, so far as my observa-
tions went, in all those which present an entire, or nearly a
regular circle. The imaginary breast-work induces a belief,
that it never exceeded four or five feet in height. At present,
the bank seldom rises more than three feet above the plain ;
and it is well known, that in ground which does not wash, a
bank of earth, thrown up in usual way, will lose very little
of its height, in a century, or twenty centuries; one fourth
for depression would be more than a sufficient allowance. But,
we will not rest our argument upon what may, perhaps, be
deemed a disputable point. The ditch, even at this day, af-
fords, a certain criterion by which me. may judge of the origi-
nal elevation of the bank. Its width seldom exceeds four
feet, at its margin ; its depth is little more than two feet. Such
a ditch, making every allowance for the operation of those
causes, which tend continually to diminish its depth, whilst
some of them are at the same time, increasing its width, could
not have yeilded more earth, than would form a bank of the
elevation mentioned. If the width, now, be not greater than
Digitized by
Google
THE WESTERN COUNTRY. 135
that ascribed, we may be assured, that, originally it was a very
trifling fosse. But you will naturally ask; are there not some
found which present a different aspect, and which evidence
more laborious efforts? no, on the contrary, it is remarkable,
that the kind of which I am now writing have as constant a
similarity to each other, as those rude edifices, or cabins,
which our first setders rear. The description of one will an-
swer for all ; there is no anomaly, except, now and then, in
the diameter of the circle; and here, the variation will only
amount to a few yards.
Permit me now to ask, whether the military art does not
necessarily require, that the ditch should be exterior; and, whe-
ther, among any people advanced to such a degree of im-
provement in the arts, as to attempt defensive works by throw-
ing up earth, a single instance can be adduced in which the
ditch has not an exterior position. Again, can we believe,
that a work, having a bank or a ditch, not higher or deeper
than I have mentioned, could be intended as a fortification ?
The moment which gave birth to the idea of a defensive work
would also shew, that it must* in its execution, be rendered
adequate to the end contemplated. It is scarcely worth while
to go back to Livy or Polybius, upon this occasion. But they
both inform us, " that the Romans, in the early period of their
warfare, dug trenches, which were, at least, eight feet broad
by six deep; that they were often twelve feet in breadth; some-
times, fifteen or twenty; that, of the earth dug out of the
fosse, and thrown up an the side of the camp, they formed the
parapet, or breast-work ; and to make it more firm, mingled
with it turf, cut in a certain size and form. Upon the brow of
the parapet, palisades were also planted, firmly fixed and close-
ly connected/' The form of the fortification was always
square. System appears to have been the tutelar Deity of
the Romans. They always proceeded upon one plan. As
to the form, indeed there appears to be no reason why that
should not vary, not only among different nations; but with
the same nation, as different situations might require. The
Greeks generally preferred the round figure; but with them, f
the nature of places decided the question as to form. In
i
Digitized by
Google
136 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATIONS OF
'other respects; the decision must be made according to fixed
and unalterable principles. The same reasons which determi-
ned every particular as to height, depth, and position of the
earth thrown up, among the Romans, would equally deter-
mine the conduct of any other nation. What defence requi-
red ; what would oppose a sufficient obstacle to human agility,
was the point to be decided; and this point would be decided
in nearly the same manner by every people unacquainted with
gun-powder. The decision would not admit of such fosses
and parapets as we find dispersed over the western country.
Man in this new world, has lost no portion of his former agi-
lity.
2dly. Because, near to most of these imaginary fortifica-
tions and I think I may say, near to every one, which is formed
upon the plan first mentioned, in a direct line with the gate-
way, you will find a mound, of an easy ascent, and from 10
to 20 feet in height. These mounds effectually command the
whole enclosure. There is not a missil weapon, which would
not, from the height and distance of the mound, fall within
the fortification ; nor would they fall in vain. But, to rear a
fortification, and then build a castle or mound without, at the
distance of 40 or 50 yards, which would give to an enemy
the entire command of such a Fortification, would be as lit-
tle recommended by an Esquimaux, as by a Bonaparte. The
truth is, no such blunder has been committed ; there is no such
discordancy of means to be here found. On the contrary, we
may trace a perfect harmony of parts. Those mounds are,
universally cemeteries. Wherever they have been opened, we
find human bones, and Indian relicks. They have grown up
gradually, as death robbed a family of its relatives, or a tribe of
its warriors. Alternate strata of bones and earth, mingled with
stones and Indian relicks, establish this position^ And hence
it is, that we find near the summit of those mounds articles of
-European manufacture, such as the tomahawk and knife; but
never are they seen at any depth in the mound. Besides, it is
well known, that among many of the Indian tribes, the bones
of the deceased are annually collected and deposited in one
place; that funeral rites are then solemnized with the warmest
Digitized by
Google
THE WESTERN COUNTRY. 137
repressions of love and friendship; and that this untutored race
urged by the feelings of nature, consign to the bosom of the
earth, along with the remains of their deceased relatives and
iriends, food, weapons of war, and often those articles which
they possessed and most highly valued, when alive. This cu-
stom has reared beyond doubt, those numerous mounds. Thus
instead of having any relation to military arrangements, or in-
volving the absurdity before mentioned, they furnish, on the
contrary, strong evidence, that the enclosures themselves were
not destined for defensive works ; because, reared as these mounds
iiave been by small, but successive annual increments, they
plainly evince that the enclosures, which are so near to them,
have been, not the temporary stations of a retiring or weaken-
jed army, but the fixed habitation of a family, and along line
%of descendants.
That these mounds, or repositories of the dead, sometimes
also, called barrows, were formed by deposition of bones and
earth, at different periods, is now rendered certain by the per-
fect examination to which one of them, situated on the Rivanna,
was subjected by the author of the Notes on Virginia. His pe-
netrating genius seldom touches a subject without throwing
upon it new light; upon this he has shown all tliat can be de-
sired. The manner in which the barrow was opened, afford-
ed an opportunity of viewing its interior with accuracy. " Ap-
pearances, says he, certainly indicate that it has derived both
origin and growth from the accustomary collection of bones,
and deposition of them together; that the first collection had
been deposited on the common surface of the earth, a few
stones put over it and then a covering of earth; that the second
4iad been laid on this, had covered more or less of it in propor-
tion to the number of bones, and was then also covered with
earth, and so on. The following are the particular circumstances
which give it this aspect 1. The number of bones. 2. Their
confused position. 3. Their being in different strata. 4. The
strata in one part having no correspondence with those in another,
5. The different states of decay in these strata, which seem to in-
'dicate a difference in the time of inhumation. 6. The existence
of infant bones among them." p. 178. First Paris Ed. The
u
Digitized by
Google
138 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATION'S OF
number of bones in this barrow, or mound, which was only
40 feet in diameter at the base, and above VI in height, au-
thorized the conjecture that it contained a thousand skeletons.
Now, as all those numerous mounds, or barrows have the most
obvious similarity, we may conclude, that what is true of one
of them, is, ceteris paribus, applicable to all. The only differ-
ence consists in their dimensions. I visited one, situated on
the low grounds of the Kanhawa, which might be almost cal-
led the pyramid of the west. Its base measured 140 yards in
circumference; its altitude is very nearly 40 feet. It resem-
bles a truncated cone; upon the top there is a level of 12 or 13
feet in diameter. A tall oak, of two feet and a half in diame-
ter, which had grown on the top, and had long looked down
upon the humbler forresters below, had experienced a revoluti-
onary breeze, which swept it from its majestic station, appa-
rently, above 6 or 7 years before my visit. Within a few miles
of this, stands another, which is said to be higher. No marks
of excavation, near the mound, are to be seen. On the con-
trary, it is probable, from the examination which was made,
that the earth composing the mound was brought from some
distance; it is also highly probable, that this was done at differ-
ent periods, for we cannot believe, that savages would submit
to the patient exertion of labour requisite to accomplish such a
work, at any one undertaking. Near to this large one are several
upon a much smaller scale. But, if that upon the Rivanna,
which was so accurately examined, contained the bones of a
thousand persons, this upon the Kanhawa would contain forty
times that number, estimating their capacities as cones. But
who will believe, that war has ever been glutted with so many
Indian victims by any one battle ? The probability seems to be,
that those mounds, formed upon so large a scale, were national
burying places; especially as they are not connected with any
particular enclosure; whilst those upon a smaller scale, and
which are immediately connected with such a work, were the
repositories of those, who had there once enjoyed a fixed habi-
tation. But whether this conjecture be admitted or not, the in-
ference, from what has been said under this head, that those
enclosures could not be designed as fortifications, will, I think,
be obvious to every one.
Digitized by
Google
THE WESTERN COUNTRY. 139
5dly. Because those supposed fortifications, not unfrequent-
ly lie at the very bottom of a hill, from which stones might be
rolled in thousands into every part of them, to the no small
annoyance, we may readily conceive, of the besieged.
4thiy. Because, in those works which are remote from a
river, or a creek, you find no certain indications of a well ; and
yet that water is a very necessary article to a besieged army,
will be acknowledged on all hands.
5thly. Because those works are so numerous, that, supposing
them to be fortifications, we must believe every inch of that very
extensive country in which they are found had been most va-
liantly and obstinately disputed. For, upon the Kanhawa, to
the extent of 80 or an 100 miles, and also upon many of the
rivers which empty their waters into it, there is scarcely a square
mile in which you will not meet with several. Indeed they
are as thick, and as irregularly dispersed, as you have seen the
habitations of farmers, or planters, in a rich and well settled -
country, but, notwithstanding their frequency, you no where see
such advantageous positions selected, as the nature of the ground,
and other circumstances would immediately have recommend-
ed to the rudest engineer, either for the purpose of opposing
inroads, or of giving protection to an army which was too weak
to withstand an invading enemy. The union of Elk and Kan-
hawa rivers affords a point of defence which could, not have
escaped the attention of any people; and yet we find no forti-
fication at this place, but many dispersed through the low
grounds in its vicinity.
I could add many other reasons; I might observe that some
are upon so small a scale, whilst others are upon one so large,
as equally to oppose the idea of their being places of defence.
If one of 40 or 50 yards in diameter should be deemed too
small for a defensive work, what shall we say to that whose
outline embraces 50, or even an 100 acres? What tribe of
Indians would furnish men sufficient to defend such a breast-
work in all its points ? But I believe the reasons assigned, when
collectively ta£en, will be deemed conclusive ; or, as abun-
dandy establishing a perfect conviction, that these western en-
closures were not designed for fortifications. This was my ob-
Digitized by
Google
140 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATIONS OF
ject. What was the real design of them may be left to future
inquiry. It is true, that we want here a compass to guide us*
and are left to find our way through this night of time, in the
best manner we can. I have already said, that those enclo-
sures carried along with them strong evidence of their being;
fixed habitations. If so, then they were designed merely as
lines of demarkation, shewing the particular spot, or portion
of ground, which a family wished to appropriate; and indeed,
they may be considered as exemplars of the manner in which
land limits would be ascertained, previous to that period, when
geometry begins to point out a mode more worthy of intelligent
beings. This rude mode might, in a sequel of years, have intro-
duced a geometry among the Aborigines of America. Though
they had not a Nile to obliterate land marks, still the desire of
saving labour would produce in one case, what anxiety to pre-
serve property did in the other. If the same mode has not
been continued* it has arisen from the means, which Euro-
pean or American art has supplied, of accomplishing the same
end with much more facility.
The people inhabiting this country must have been nume-
rous. The frequency of their burying places is a proof. The
traveller finds them in every direction, and often, many in
every mile. Under a mild climate, a people will always mul-
tiply in proportion to the quantity of food, which they can
procure. Here, the waters contain fish in considerable abun-
dance, some weighing not less than 60 or 80 pounds. Not far
distant are those extensive and fertile plains, which were
crowded with wild animals. The mildness of the climate is
also remarkable. It appears to equal that of Richmond or
Williamsburg ; though the huge range of mountains which
attend the Allegheny have not yet disappeared, and though
the latitude of the place where Elk and Kanhawa rivers meet,
according to an observation which I made with an imperfect
instrument, is 38° it1'. All these circumstances were highly
favorable to population; and also to permanent residence.
Another circumstance, the face of the country, or locality,
would serve to prevent this increase of population from diffusing
itself on eveiy side, and consequently would condense a tribe;
Digitized by
Google
i
THE WESTERN COUNTRY. 141
for the Kanliawa and its tributary streams are hemmed in by
high and craggy hills, often approaching to mountains, and
beyond which, to a considerable extent, the country in general
is Jfit only for the habitation of wild beasts.
It is true, that on the N. W. side of the Ohio, there are
works, which seem to claim higher pretensions to the rank as-
signed them* They present more elevated parapets, deeper
ditches,, with other indications of military art. Perhaps, how-
ever, when more accurately examined, in all their aspects,
they will be found to be only the habitation of axhief of some
powerful tribe. The love of distinction prevails with no less
force Jn the savage, than the civilized breast, M'Kinzie, in
his unadorned narratives, mentions frequently the habitation
of the chief or king, as much larger, and even as commodi-
ous, when-compared with those of inferior rank. In latitudes
so high as those which he traversed* with heroic perseverance,,
necessity compelled the savage to contrive more warm and
durable habitations; but the same prinoipki which would give
marks of distinction to the residence of the chieftain in one
climate, would produce the same effect in any other, though
they might assume different appearances; Besides, it might
not be improper to recollect in an examination of those works,
that the French began to build forts in the Miamis, and Illinois
country, as early as the year 1680; and that they were after-
wards systematically continued until the loss of Canada.
I cannot conclude this letter, already, I fear, too long, with-
out mentioning another curious specimen of Indian labour,,
and of their progress in one of the arts. This specimen is
found within four miles of the place whose latitude I endea-
voured to take, and within two of what are improperly called
Burning Springs, upon a rock of hard freestone, which lies slo-
ping to the south, touching the margin of the river, and pre-
sents a flat surface of above 12 feet in length and 9 in breadth,
with a plane side to the east of 8 or 9 feet in thickness.
Upon the upper surface of this rock, and also upon the side,
we see the outlines of several figures, cut without relief, ex-
cept in one instance, and somewhat larger than the life. The
depth of the outline maybe half an inch; its width, threes
Digitized by
Google
142 SUPPOSED FORTIFICATIONS, &C.
quarters, nearly, in some places. In one line ascending from
the part of the rock nearest the river, there is a Tortoise; a
spread Eagle, executed with great expression, particularly
the head, to which is given a shallow relief; and a child, the
outline of which is very well drawn. In a parallel line, there
are other figures; but among them that of a woman only can
be traced. These are very indistinct. Upon the side of the
rock, there are two awkward figures, which particularly caught
my attention. One is that of a man, with his arms uplifted,
and hands spread out, as if engaged in prayer. His head is
made to terminate in a point; or rather, he has the appear-
ance of something upon the head, of a triangular or conical
form : near to him is another similar figure, suspended by a
cord fastened to his heels. I recollected the story, which Fa-
ther Hennepin relates of one of the missionaries from Canada
who was treated in a somewhat similar manner; but whether
this piece of seemingly historical sculpture has reference to
such an event, ran be only matter of conjecture. A Turkey
badly executed, with a few other figures may also be seen.
, The labour and the perseverance requisite to cut those rude -
figures in a rock so hard, that steel appeared to make but lit-
tle impression upon it, must have been great; much more so,
than making of enclosures in a loose and fertile soil.
B. S. Barton, M. D. one of )
the V. P. of the A, P. S.)
Yours, &c.
JAMES MADISON,
Digitized by
Google
L i« J
No. XXVII.
Supplement to the account of the Dipus Americanus, in the IV.
Vol. of the Transactions of the Society. See No. XII.
Read Dec. 16tk, 1803.
IN the 4th volume of the Transactions of the American
Philosophical Society, I have given an account of a new
species of Dipus, of Jerboa. When that paper was presented
to the society, I was not able to say, with absolute confidence,
though I thought it highly probable, that the animal which I
described was one of the lethargic species of Glires, or those
species which pass the winter-season in a torpid state. I have
now completely satisfied myself, diat the Dipus Americanus
does go into the torpid state, in the neighbourhood of Phila-
delphia.
In the month of August, 179^ one of these little animals
was brought to me from the vicinity of this city. It was put
into a large glass jar, where I was so fortunate as to preserve
it for near four months. Though it made many efforts to
escape from its confinement,, it seemed,, upon the whole, pretty
well reconciled to it. It continued active, and both ate and
drank abundandy. I fed it upon, bread* the grain of Indian
corn (Zea Mays), and the berries of the Prinos verticillatus,
sometimes called black-alder.
On or about the 22d, of November, it passed into the tor-
pid state. It ifr curious to observe, that at the time it became
torpid, the weather was unusually mild for the season of the
year, and moreover the animal was kept in a warm room, in
which there was a large fire the greater part of the day and
night. I sometimes roused it from its torpid state; at other
times it came spontaneously out of it. During the intervals
of its waking, it both ate and drank. It was frequendy most
active, while the weather was extremely cold in December;
but when I placed the jar upon a thick cake of ice, in the
Digitized by
Google
144? ON THE TORPIDITY OF JERBOAS.
open air, its movements or activity seemed wholy directed to
the making of a comfortable habitation out of the hay with
which I supplied it. It was sufficiently evident, however,
that the cold was not the only cause of its torpid state- It was
finally killed by the application of too great a degree of heat to
it, whilst in its torpor.
During its torpor, it commonly laid with its head between
its hind legs, with the claws or feet of these closely applied
to the head. Its respiration could always be perceived, but
was very slow.
The fact of the torpidity of this little animal is known to
the gardeners and others near the city. They call it the
u seven-sleepers," and assert, that it is frequendy found in the
earth, at the lower extremity of the horse-radish, and other
perpendicular roots. Does it use these as a measure of the
distance to which it shall go in the earth, to avoid the influence
of the frost?
I have said, that the Dipus Americanus becomes torpid in
the neighbourhood of this city. But this, I believe, is not
always the case. During the winter-season, this litde animal
and another species, which I call Dipus mellivorus, take pos-
session of the hives of bees, in which they form for themselves,
a warm and comfortable habitation, having ingeniously scoop-
ed away some wax. The materials of its nest are fine dry
grass, down or feathers, and old rags. It lives upon the ho-
ney, and seems to grow very fat upon it. I believe two indi-
viduals, a male and a female, commonly inhabit one hive.
They sometimes devour the greater part of the honey of a hive.
The circumstance just mentioned is not altogether uninter-
esting. It plainly proves what I have, long since, asserted,
that the torpid state of animals is altogether " an accidental
circumstance," and by no means constitutes a specific charao
ter. The same species becomes torpid in one country and nqt
in another. Nay, different individuals of the same species be-
come torpid, or continue awake, in the same neighbourhood,
and even on the same farm.
BENJAMIN SMITH BARTON.
Digitized by
Google |
I 1*5 ]
No. XXVIIL
Hints on the Etymology of certain English wards, and on their
affinity to words in the languages of different European, Asiatic,
ami American (Indian) nations, in a letter from Dr. Barton to
Dr. Thomas Beddoes.
Read 0& 21st, 1803.
DEAR SIR,
YOU were pleased to observe, that you take much interest
in my inquiries concerning Indian dialects. It is partly on
this account, but much more from the attention which it is
well known you have devoted to the subject of etymology and
language, that I trouble you with this letter-
In die course of my inquiries into the languages of the
Americans, I have discovered many instances of affinity be-
tween the words of Asiatic and American nations, and those
of the English. These affinities are sometimes very striking.
Of themselves, they have, I think, some value ; but when
they are taken in connection with innumerable other facts,
they seem to establish this important point, which I have not
a doubt will, ultimately, be the opinion of all philosophers,
either that all the existing nations of the earth are specifically the
same, or (for I do not positively contend, widi Blumenbach and
Camper, that all mankind constitute but one species J, that the
ancestors of all the present races of men, were once much more
intimately associated together than they are at present.
In adducing the words (or rather a small portion of them)
to which I have alluded, I do not deem it necessary to be very
methodical. I shall distribute them into three heads, viz.
Houns, adjectives, and verbs.
Section L
1. Tinder. " Any thing eminently inflammable placed to
catch fire." Dr. Johnson derives this word from the Saxon.
Digitized by
Google
146 ON THE ETYMOLOGY, &C.
In the language of the Irish, Tinne, and in the Erse of Scot-
land, Teine, is fire. The Welsh, the Cornwall ians, and the
people of Little^Brittany, call it Tan. These are all of the
Celtic stock. Other Celts of the old world call it Tan, and
Dar. Several of the North-American tribes unite the two
last mentioned words into one. Thus the Delawares, or Lenne-
Lennape, call fire, Tendcu, Tindey, Tindai, Tacnda, and Twen-
daigh : the Pampticoughs, Tinda, and the Sankikani (as early
as 1633) Tviteywe. — In the language of the Nanticokes
(a North-Americah tribe), Tind is fire. This is precisely the
English verb, to kindle, to set on fire.
2. Peat or Turf. Of this well known substance, so com-
mon in the northern parts of the old and new world, where it
is used as fuel, Johnson has not attempted to give us the de-
rivation. But I find, that the Naudowessies, or Sioux-Indians»
of North- America, call fire Peta.
N. B. The language of this, great tribe abounds in Finnic
words.
3. Morass, a fen, bog, or moor. According to Johnson,
from the French Harms. Perhaps, however, this word may
be better traced to the Permian word for the sea, Morae, or to
the Gipsey-word Moros, the sea.
4. Map, a geographical picture. From Mappa, Low-Latin.
Johnson. Several of the Asiatic tribes call the earth, Ma.
Such are the Permians, above mentioned, different tribes of
Vogoulitchi, or Vouguls, who inhabit the Oural-mountains.
The Gipsey name (or rather one of their names) is Poo, of Pu.
Does it not seem, that the Latin Mappa and the English map,
are composed of the Ma and the Poo, which I have mention-
ed ? But what is remarkable, the Chilese of South-America
actually call the earth Mapu.
5. Valley, a low ground, a hollow.between hills. Vallee,
French; Vallis, Latin. — The Kartalini, one of the nations of
Mount-Caucasus, call a valley, Velee: the Miamis, of North-
America, Walaick-kach-ki-kai.
6. Star. One of the luminous bodies of the heavens. The
Persian and Bucharian word is Star a: the Aganske, Sturee*
The Osetti call it Stela, which is very similar to the Latin.
Digitized by
Google
OF CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 147
7. Cascade, a cataract, a water-fall. From the French Cas-
cade, and the Italian, Cascata. — In the language of the Chee-
rakee-Indians of North-America, rain is Kasca.
8. Storm, a tempest. This word seems properly enough re-
ferred to the Welsh, the Saxon, the Dutch, and the Italian.
In the language of the Tchiochonski, Finlanders, or Original
Finns, inhabiting the borders of the Gulph of Finland, the
word is Storma. — It may be worth observing in this place, that
the Tchiochonski also call a storm, Sea, which may have some
relation to the English word Sea.
9. Pond, a small pool or lake of water. 4€ Supposed to be
the same as pound, Saxon, to shut up." Johnson. Paane is
water in the language of the people of Bengal and Decan.
10. Cot, Cottage. From the Saxon and the Welsh. In
the language of the Carelians and the Olonetzi, two Finnic nati-
ons, Kodee is a house: in that of the Laplanders, Kote; in that
of the Esthontans, Kodda, and in the dialects of three tribes
of Ostiaks, Kat, or Kaut.
11. Door, the gate of a house. From the Saxon, Dora,
and the Erse, Dorr is. Johnson. In the language of the Celts
of Little-Britany, and in that of the Welsh, it is Dor. In
the Persian and Bucharian, Dar, or Daur.
12. Court, apallace, hall or chamber, &c. Cour, French,
Koert, Dutch; Curtis, Low Latin. Johnson. In the dialects
of the &hiryane and the Permians, it is Karta. Both these
nations are evidently of the Finnic stock.
13. Kennel, a cot for dogs. Chenil, French. Johnson.
In the language of the Albanians, residing in Dalmatia, and in
some of the islands of the Greek- Archepelago, Ken is a dog.
14. Puppy; a whelp. Poupee, French. Johnson. In
the language of the Kottowi, a nation living on the Jenisea
in Siberia, Pup is a child. Papoos and Pappooz are the words
for a child, in the dialects of the Piankashaws and Narragan-
setts of North- America.
15. Cat, a quadruped. Katz, Teuton. Chat, French.
Johnson. Why not the Saxon? Kat. Kcto, in a dialect of
the Lesghis. Kate in that of one of the Vougul tribes. Katoo
in the Armenian and Immeretian. Kceta and Kata in the Ian-
Digitized by
Google
148 ON THE ETYMOLOGY, &C.
guage of the Kartalini. Kot in that of a tribe of the Toungu-
sians. Other affinities might be pointed out.
16. Cur, a dog. From the Dutch Korre. Johnson. The
Tchiochonski and the Carelians call a dog, Koeera, and the
Olortetzi, another Finnic tribe* Koeero: the Clieerake-Indians,
Keera.
17. Nap, slumber, a short sleep. From the Saxon to sleep.
Johnson. Naap is sleep in the language of the Ingush evtzi
and Tooschetti, who dwell on Mount-Caucasus. Nippa-loo in
the language of the Sawannoo, or Shawnese. In the language
of the Nanticokes, another American tribe, Nip-paan is to sleep.
18. Mucus, snot, &c. Evidently from the Latin Mucus.
But in the language of the inhabitants of Tamul, Mooka, and
in that of the Varugdsians Mookoo* is the nose. The Mala-
bar word is Moko.
19. Pen, a quill, or feather. This is most naturally refer-
red to the Latin, Penna. A tribe of Ostiaks call it Pooni. I
cannot help observing, in this place, that a tribe of Koriaks*
and the Tchouktchi or Tchuktschi, call a bird Gatla. I need
not remind you of the affinity of this word to the Latin Gallus*
and Galla.
20. Egg. Johnson refers this to the Saxon and the Erse.
It is remarkable, that the Lumpocolli, living between the rivers
Jenisea and Obe, call an egg, Eg!
21. Custard, a kind of sweetmeat. From die Welsh, Cws-
turd. Johnson. The Katahba, or Catauba Indians of North-
America, call bread Koostauh* and Coostaie* It is a fact, that
there are many Celtic words in the language of this (now al-
most extinct) American tribe. They call the earth Manna and
Mannooh (evidently Celtic), which may, perhaps, serve to illus-
trate a passage in the Germania of Tacitus. " Celebrant (Ger-
mani) " carminibus antiquis (quod unum apud illos memoriae
** et annalium genus est) Tuistonem deum terra editum, et fili-
" um Mannum, originem gentis conditoresque. Manno trisfi-
" lios assignant," &c. &C.-J- Tuetsch or Tuets is the earth in
the dialect of three tribes of Semoyads. Tue is the Chilese word.
* This is a Malabar dialect.
t C» Cornelii Taciti de Situ, Moribus, et Populis Germaaix Libeling
Digitized by
Google
OF CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 149
22, Salt. Gothick, Saxpn, Latin, French, This word,
with inconsiderable variation, is preserved among many nations
of the old world. Thus, the Tchiochonski-call it, Soola, Sola,
and Suola: the Esthonians, Sool: the Olonetzi, Soloo: the Per-
mians and a tribe of the Ostiaks, Sol: the Morduini and the
Mokshan, Sal: a tribe of the Vouguls, Sal. One tribe of the
Semoyads call it See.
2S. Mattock, a kind of toothed instrument to pull up weeds.
Mattuk, Saxon. Johnson. In the language of the Mahic-
cans, a North- American tribe, Matook, Metooque, and Mah-
tahhun signify wood. M it tic, Meticr Meteek are either
trees or wood in the dialect of the Chippewas^ The Algonkin
words are the same.
24. Harrow, an instrument of agriculture. Charroue, French,
and Haicke, a rake, German. Johnson^ It is easy to make a
ihuch nearer approach to the original of the word than the great
English Lexicographer has made. This instrument is called
Hara in the language of the Tchiochonski, and Harau in that
of the Cornwalhans.
25. Mall, a kind of beater or hammer, a stroke or blow.
Malleus, Latin. Johnson. Mai is one of the words for an axe
in the language of the Laplanders.
26. Cade, a barrel. Cadus, Latin. Johnson. — Johnson
seems not to hare known, that the Celtic word is Kad*. Thi6
is also the name in the language of one tribe of the Vouguls -r
and in Hebrew.
27. Canister, a small basket, &c. Cardslrum, Latin. John-
son.— The Seneca-Indians of North-America call a cup, Ka-
nista.
28. Pear, a fruit. Poire, French, Pyrum, Latin. Johnson.
In the Hebrew, Peree, and in the Syrian, Peerox is fruit.
29. Oak, a tree. Ac, Me, Saxon. — Johnson. I am quite
contented with this; but I must observe that the Lumpocolli
(the very tribe who have the English word Egg) call this tree,
Oksi, or OkL Oaks is the name of the Elm among the Tus-
carbras and Oneidas.
30. Bark, the rind or covering of a tree. Barck, Danish^
Johnson. — Barka is one of the Gipsey words.
• Gad is any kind of liquor in the Cornish language. Borlase,
Digitized by
Google
150 ON* THE ETYMOLOGY, &C.
3 1 . Book, a volume, Boc, Saxon, " supposed from boc, a
beach, because they wrote on beechen boards; as liber, in Latin,
from the rind of a tree." Johnson. In the language of the
Curdi, or people of Curdistan, Pak, is the leaf of a tree. We
find this word among the Americans. Thus, the Delaware
name for a leaf (folium) is Wurti-pak, or Wunee-pauk : the
Mahiccan word, Waunee-pockq. Here there can be no doubt
about the affinity of the Asiatic and American words : for a
part of the American is Pak, which is identically the same as
the Curdistan word*. Among the Americans, as well as the
Asiatics (and I suppose most other nations), we find numerous
instances of the change of P into B, and of B into P. . Thus,
the Pottawatameh, who speak a dialect of the Delaware, call
a leaf Tago-b6c. And thus, you see, that the Saxon word,
Boc, with very little variation, is preserved in America. I am
not afraid, that you will deem this a "risible absurdity/' or that
you will say what Johnson says of Skinner, " how easy it is to
4i play the fool, under a shew of literature and deep researches."
I am of opinion, that etymology (though it has often been
abused) is susceptible, in innumerable instances, of the greatest
certainty. The very word which I have mentioned above,
Wunee-pauk, is a proof of this. About the latter division of
the word, we cannot but be satisfied : but what are we to make
of the former part, or Wunee ? Hitherto, I have not been able
to discover that this is the name for a leaf in the language of
any tribe or nation of the old world. But, Vaunoo is the trunk
or stem of a vegetable in the language of a tribe of Semoyads.
32. Cap, the garment that covers the head. Cap, Welsh;
Cappe, Sax. Cappe, Germ. Cappe, Fr. Cappa, Ital. Capa, Span.
Kappe, Danish and Dutch ; caput, a head, Latin, — Johnson.
To this very satisfactory history of the word, permit me to add,
that Kapa is a cap in the dialect of the Kubeshanians, who in-
habit Mount-Caucasus.
33. Under this first head of nouns, I shall add only one
other word : and this is not an English one. In the Scottish dia-
lect, Beam is a child. This word, I think, is Saxon. It is also
• Sec my New Views of the origin of the tribes and nations of America. Comparative
Vocabularies, p. 75, 76. Philadelphia: 1798. /
Digitized by
Google
OF CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 151
Barn in the language of the Icelanders, in the dialect of the
ancient Dacians; and in Swedish. Thus much has been ob-
served by others. It is a curious circumstance, that Birna is a
pregnant woman in the language of the Jolofs, one of the
blackest of all the African nations. I have found Asiatic
words in this language, and one or two South-American words*.
Section 2*
1, Dank, damp, humid, moist, wet. Skinner derives this
from the German tuncien, to dip something into water, &c.
Dan is water in the language of the people of New-Guinea* and
Don in the languages of the Osetti and Dugori, on Caucasus.
The Wyandots, or Hurons of North-America, call a river
Yan-Dank-keh, and Yan-Daun-kee-ah. The two Asiatic na-
tions, just mentioned, likewise call a river, Don. — The En-
glish words, Tank, a large cistern, or bason, and Tankard, a
veseei to hold water, are unquestionably of Asiatic original.
The word Tank is used in India at this very day. There is a
river in Pennsylvania, the Indian name of which is Tunk-
hanna.
2. Naval, belonging to ships. The Kartalini, whom I have
already mentioned, and among whom we have found a spe-
cimen of an English word, call a ship or vessel, Navee.
3. Murky, dark, cloudy, wanting light. From the Danish
Morck, Johnson. Mcrkot is night in the Susdalien dialect.-}-
4. Dcmocratical. I think it has escaped the notice of the
English Dictionary-makers* that Demo is the name for men, or
people (liomines, populus) in the language of the old Persians* .
I find a great number of English, French, and American
(Indian) words in this old language, which Sir William Jones
has shown to be Sanscrit Philosophers will ultimately repose
in the belief, that Asia " has been the principal foundery of
the human kind;" and Iran, or Persia, will be considered as
# Sec New Views, &c. Preliminary Discourse, p. 73.
f " Susdal'temit dialectus variis graecis barbartsque verbis a mercaturam in Thracia facientibus.
" corrupt*, ita fere ad Rusicamlinguam se habet, uti ludaeo-Germanica ad Germanicam." Pailaa.^
Digitized by
Google
152 ON THE ETYMOLOGY, &C.
one of the cradles from which the species took their departure,
to people the various regions of the earth-
5. Peaked, sharp, acuminated. I do not find this word
(which is much in use among my countrymen) in Johnson,
who, however, giyes us, the substantive Peak, and the verb to
Peak. You will observe, that Johnson is not satisfied with his
own account of the verb, " We say (these are his words) a
" withered man has a sharp face ; FalstafF dying, is said to have
" a nose as sharp as a perf: from this observation, a sickly man
" is said to peak or grow acuminated, from pique.'9 We say
(in the United-States) of a person whose face is contracted by
sickness, he looks peaked.
Pakd in the language of the Indians of Moultan residing
at Astrachan, and Pukeetoo in that of the Andieskie residing
on Mount-Caucasus, signify sharp.
6. Sharp, keen, piercing, not obtuse, &c. From the Saxon
and the Dutch. — Johnson. You may smile, but I will ven-
ture to inform you, that Scfiarp is an axe or hatchet, in the lan-
guage of a tribe of the Vouguls.
7. Tiny; little, small, puny. Tint,Tynd, Danish. — John-
son, who says it is a burlesque word. Why so ? Teena, or Tina,
signifies small, or little in the dialects of two tribes of the
Lesghintzi, or Lesghis, who inhabit Mount-Caucasus. The
dialects of the Lesghis are arranged by Professor Pallas imme-
diately before the Tchiochonski and other Finnic languages.
There are many Lesghis words, nearly pure, in the languages
of the Americans.
8. Big, large, proud, swelling, great in spirit, lofty, brave.
" This word (Johnson observes) is of uncertain or unknown
etymology." Both Junius and Skinner have endeavoured to ar-
rive at some certainty on the subject. But their researches, in this
instance, have been extremely futile. I tread on ticklish ground.
In the language of the Toungusians who inhabit the eastern
coast of the sea of Baikal, Biga is God. In the dialect of other
Toungusians, and in the language of the Tschapogirri, who in-
habit the eastern bank of the river Jenisea, the word is Buga.
The word, Bog, which signifies God in the language of the
Russians, Poles, and other Slavonic nations, is nearly allied
Digitized by
Google
OF CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 153
to our English word. Pallas says Big is corrupt Russian (ma-
larossica.) It is a fact, that in the languages of many rude na-
tions, the same word not un frequently signifies both God and
large, great, or mighty. This is remarkably the case among
the American Indians. In the languages of different tribes,
the same word not unfrequently means God, and great. Nay,
more than this : it is easy to adduce instances of the same word
being used in Asia for God, and in America for great. I shall
mention a single instance. Certain tribes inhabiting the pe-
ninsula of Kamtschatka call God, Kootcha: now, Kutche,
and Kilchi, are very prevailing words, among the Americans,
for great or powerful. And it is remarkable, that they often
use it as an epithet for God: thus, Kitchi-Manitou, &c. the
Great-Spirit, in the language of the Chippewas, &c. %
Section S.
I. To Chirp, to make a chearful noise. " This, says John-
son, seems apparently corrupted from cheer-up." This is cer-
tainly a forced derivation. I think he would have been bet-
ter pleased with the one I am to offer. In the language of
the Ostiaks, of Narim, Ckurp is a bird. The Ch is to be
sounded like the Chi of the Greeks and the Ch of the Ger-
mans. I consider all the Ostiaks as having a Finnic original.
Unquestionably, a very great number of English words are
Finnic, as are also perhaps a still greater number in the langua-
ges of the North- American tribes.
H. To Bouse, to drink lavishly; to tope. Buysen, Dutch.
Johnson. This word and the adjective Bousy are to be met
with among very old English writers. Spencer speaks of the
" Bousing can." The word is evidendy of Asiatic original.
Perhaps, it maybe referred to the Asiatic word Boo, water, from
whence I suppose the American words, Bee, Beeh, Beh, wa-
ter. But I can furnish you with something much less equi-
vocal. According to Mr. Bruce, the Abyssinians make from
a species of millet, an intoxicating drink, which they call
Bousa. Josaphat Barbaro, a Venetian, tells us, as- early as
14S6, that the Tartars whom he visited, drink a kind of beer
Digitized by
Google
158 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS
completed. I have seen the First and Second parts, which
were printed at Petersburgh, in 1786, and 1789. Neither the
African nor American languages have any place in these vo-
lumes. My own labours have now put me in possession of
good specimens of at least one hundred American dialects, and
several African ones* These may, at some future peribd, be
offered to the public, as a supplement to the work begun by
Catherine and Pallas.
No. XXIX.
Astronomical Observations made by Jose Joaquin de Ferrer, cteefly
Jbr the Purpose of determining the Geographical Position of vari-
ous Places in the United States, and other Parts of North
America. Communicated by the Author.
Translated from<he Spanish, and read at different times.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS
ON THE ATLANTIC BORDER OF THE UNITED STATES.
Latitudes. Longitudes
W. of Greenwich,
o / * o / U
Cape Hatteras f 35 14 30 75 38 15 $
Cape Henlopen light-house $ 38 47 16 75 10 03 J
Cape May f 38 5& 46 74 56 54 $
Germantown market-house. • 40 02 29
Coast to the North of Cape-May i 39 39 00 74 16 35 $
Idem | 39 52 40 74 12 15 $
Idem • ... \ 40 07 30 74 12 15 $
Highlands 74 07 24 §
Town of New-Haven J 41 17 07 73 4 53 $
Town of Gilford f 41 18 16 72 51 00 §
(Falcon) Falkland-Island ± 41 14 50 72 50 15 $
New-London, Light-house J 41 21 08 72 12 15 §
Light-house, on the Easternmost point of Long-Island. . f 41 04 30 71 53 39 $
E. Hampton, in Long-Island + 41 00 00 72 15 50 $
Rocky Way in Idem f 40 28 00 73 12 55 $
Battery at New-York ...» 40 42 06' 74 07 45
f Latitude observed at sea, at some distance from the parallel, and calculated from a course of
4 or 5 hours from the time of observing.
| Latitude observed at sea, upon which dependence may be placed, and not differing ■} of a
minute from the true lat.
* Longitude determined by astronomical observations ; by the emersions of the first satellite
of Jupiter compared with the corresponding ones made in Europe, and by the occultation of
stars by the moon's disk.
| Longitude as referred to New-York, by a chronometer of Arnold.
Digitized by
Google
BY J, J- DE FERRER. 153
ON THE RIVERS OHIO AND MISSISSIPPI.
THESE Latitudes, which were ascertained in the months of
May and June 1801, were observed with a circle of reflection,
and an artificial horizon of Mercury; and the Longitudes by the
assistance of two chronometers ; one made by Arnold No. 396,
the othet by Earnshaw No. 306 suspended in gimbols. Their
going was carefully observed at Pittsburgh and at New-Orleans,
and from the regularity observed in their going, reliance is to
be placed on the exactness of the difference of meridians.
ON THE OHIO.
Latitude. Long, (in time)
W. of Greenwich,
o 9 m h f »
Pittsburgh 40 26 15 5 19 53
Great Kanhawa 38 51 54 5 28 32
Galiopolis , 38 49 12 5 28 41
Guiandot 38 25 00 5 29 16
Sciota River 384328 5 31 54
Vance Ville 383500 5 3300
Manchester 38 37 00 5 34 05
Cincinnati (Fort Washington) 39 05 54 5 37 50
Louisville 38 15 48 5 42 39
Falls of Louisville, (2 m. N. W. of L.) 37 17 14
Blue River 38 11 00 5 4453
Green River 37 52 42 5 49 42
Diamond Island , 38 14 16 5 49 28
Wabash River 37 49 15 5 52 02 '
Fort Massac 37 13 00 5 54 31
Wilkinson Ville 37 15 00 5 55 40
Confluence of the Rivers Ohio and Mississippi 37 00 20 5 56 24
ON THE MISSISSIPPI.
o / * h f *
Sand Island (arena) 36 27 28
NewMadrid 363430
East point of Devil's Island, with a Cliff on the East bank "> «r rt . rt A
of the River 5 35 24 24
Channel between two Islands 335800
Island 33 04 30
Island 32 36 22
Confluence of the Rivers Yazoo and Mississippi 32 28 00
Walnut Hills * 32 24 37
Grand Gouffre 32 04 30
Natchez 31 33 48
Spanish Limits .... 31 00 00
Red River 31 01 15
Point Coupee (1st Church). . . f . . 30 45 00
False River 30 42 00
The Yellow Cliffs (escapardo) ;, 30 40 00
Northern point of the last Island , 30 36 00
New Orleans , ••....295730
South West Pass 28 56 00
5
57 40
5
58 03
5
59 54
6
4 35
6
457
6
4 14
6
4 12
6
3 49
6
4 27
6
5 54
6.
6 43
6
7 11
6
5 56
6
5 32
6
5 24
5
623
6
038
5
57 56
Digitized by
Google
156 ON THE ETYMOLOGY, &C-
casian tribes, to which the Armenian is allied- Thus it is easy
to conceive, how many Asiatic words (a much greater number
than is generally supposed) are still preserved in Britain. They
were brought into Britain by the Asiatic colonies; they are still
preserved, and will be preserved for a long time, notwithstand-
ing the various admixtures of nations; because languages are the
most unperishable of all medals. They are as immortal as the
human race.
The Asiatic origin of the Greeks and the Latins has never
been called in question. There are many Latin words in the
English language. Some of these, I have no doubt, were in-
troduced by the Romans when they conquered and colonized
the island. But a much greater number, I suspect, are derived
by the ancient inhabitants of Britain from the same tree which
supplied the Romans with its fruit. An attention to the follow-
ing circumstances will render this not a little probable.
We find Latin words among many of the rude and other na-
tions of Asia, who are not known to have had any communi-
cation with the Romans. Some instances of this kind I have
painted out in a former part of this letter. But we find Latin
words among the Indians of America: and I think therein no
good foundation for suspecting, that the Romans had ever vis£
ted, much less planted colonies in, America. I will give an
instance or two. In the language of the Delawares, Pane is
bread. This is almost pure Latin. It is actually pure Italian,
Neapolitan, and Spanish. But whence, it has been asked, did
the Americans derive this word ? Doubtless, from the same
tree which, planted in the soil of Asia, has spread its branches,
or diffused its fruit, to every region of the earth. In the lan-
guage of the Curdes, of Curdistan, Pan is bread. This language
is nearly allied to the Persian. Thunberg informs us, that the
Japanese verb to bake bread is Pan-jakv. Now, I have shown,
that there are many Curde and Japanese words in the different
dialects of America. The same Delawares call a dog, Mi-kanne,
which is nearly Latin, but more nearjy still Italian and Nea-
politan. In this instance, also, we can trace the word to Asia,
ibr different tribes of Semoyads call a dog, Kanang, Kanaka
and Konak; and the Karassini call it Kannak.
Digitized by
Google
OF CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 157
It is unnecessary to adduce other instances of this kind,— r-
Many more might be adduced, and will be mentioned in the
Second Part of my New Views, which is preparing for the press.
If those which I have mentioned should be deemed of any im-
portance to you, I shall, in a future letter, communicate ano-
ther collection. I am well aware, that these inquiries are re-
mote from our immediate professional pursuits ; but they are not
remote from our inquiries as naturalists. The study of the phy-
sical history, that is of the figure, complexion, &c, of man-
kind, should go hand in hand with a comparison of the Ian*
guages of the earth. The most finished Anthropologia, such an
one as Pallas could give us, will be constructed, in a consider-
able degreS, upon the affinities of languages,
I am, Dear Sir,
with much respect,
Your Friend, &c.
BENJAMIN SMITH BARTON.
Thomas Beddoes, 5
M. D. F.
teddoes,*
«. R. S.)
Philadelphia, October 20th, 1802,
POSTSCRIPT.
You will observe, that the preceding words in the langua-
ges of the Americans are written in two different kinds of let-
ters, viz. Roman and Italic. The former, which are fewest
in number, were .all collected by myself: the latter are either
taken from printed books or have been collected for me by my
friends, in different parts of the United-States. Most of the
words in the Asiatic and other languages, are taken from
the Vocabularia Comparative of Professor Pallas. It is much
Jto be regretted, jthat this very important work has not been
Digitized by
Google
154 ON THE ETYMOLOGY, &C.
called Bossa. And Dr. Forster informs us, that " at this present
" time they have in Russia an inebriating liquor, prepared
" from millet, which is called Busa, and is very heady."*
3. To Tope, to drink hard ; to drink to excess. Toper, a
drunkard, " Topff, German, an earthen pot; Toppen, Dutch,
to be mad. Skinner prefers the latter etymology." Johnson.
I am far from being satisfied with this, and I think something
more satisfactory may be offered. In the language of the
Gipsies, Tepaoo is to drink. You are not ignorant that the
language of these vagrants has a most evident and intimate
affinity with that of the nations of Hindustan.
4. To butcher ; to kill. The Mandshuri, or Manshour —
Tartars, call death Bootschere, or Butchere. It may not be amiss
to observe, in this place, that Mort is death in the language of
the people of Bengal, How nearly similar is this to the Celtic
words, Mar, Mor, Mart; the Latin Mors; the Italian Morte;
the French, Mor, &c. ! !
5. To Ram, to drive with violence, as with a battering ram.
I find nothing satisfactory relative to the etymology of this
word, in our English dictionaries. After attending to the fol-
lowing, I hope you will not think I am forcing the subject.
In the language of the Tchiokonski, Ramo, and in that of
the Esthonians (both of whom I have often mentioned) Ramm
and Rammo are the words for our English force and strength
(Vis, Robur). Rammo is also the Esthonian word for power
(Potentia).
As I know not what value you may attach to the preceding
mite to extend our knowledge of the original of English words,
I shall not, at present, trouble you with any more of a similar
kind. Permit me, however, to make a few observations, which
seem to arise naturally enough out of this investigation.
Many English words do, unquestionably, exist among certain
• Asiatic nations, and even among the Indian nations of Ame-
rica. As it is difficult, at first sight, to give a very satisfactory
• History of the Voyages and Discoveries made in the North, &c p. 172, 173. Dublin Edi-
tion, 1786. Busa is also mentioned by Professor Pallas. He says, the inhabitants of Crim—
Tartary brew this " intoxicating," «« ill tasted and very strong beer from" Millet, or Tari. See
Travels through the Southern Provinces of the Russian Empire, in the years 1793, and 1794.
Vol. II. p. 360, 388, &c English translation. London : 1803.
Digitized by
Google
* OP CERTAIN ENGLISH WORDS. 155
explanation of this fact, superficial inquirers (of whom there
is always a large number, particularly in the crowd of those
who have written upon the origin of mankind) immediately
conclude, either that the affinities are entirely accidental, or
that they are owing to the commercial intercourse which, at
present, subsists between the inhabitants of different parts of
the earth. That such affinities are accidental, I am sure that
no man in his sober senses, will dare to assert. That they are
not to be accounted for from the commercial intercourse which
at present subsists between different nations is equally certain.
The difficulties which encumber this important subject will
vanish, when we extend our inquiries beyond the limited ho-
rizon of a few hundred years; and when we suffer ourselves
to be relieved from the numerous prejudices, which form as it
were our pillow in the cradle. The bpoks of Moses inform
us, that mankind were created in Asia. Ever since I have bu-
sied myself, and I may add, rendered myself happy, with in-
quiries into the languages of the Americans, I have ceased to
entertain any doubts of the accuracy of the scripture story,
so far as regards the Asiatic origin of men, and their dispersion
from a common centre. These two great facts, which consti-
tute corner-stones in the history of the species, are supported
by the more modern history of nations; and I am persuaded
will bear the strictest scrutiny of every research of humanity.
The original of nations may, in many instances, be deter-
mined solely by an attention to the languages of mankind. H^d
the books of Moses perished; had no memorials concerning
them escaped the numerous revolutions of our globe; had no
traditions concerning the origin of the species been transmitted
to us, the researches of philosophers, through the medium of
language (such is the pure certainty of science !) would have
conducted them to the great historical truth, that Asia has b( en
the cradle of the world. But history much more recent than
that of the Jewish lawgiver, kindly comes to our assistance.
Thus, not to mention other instances, the Saxon chronicle deduces
the first inhabitants of Britain from Armenia. Now, it is a fact,
that we find some English words in the language of the Aime-
nians, and in the language of the Kartaiini and other Cau-
Digitized by
Google
1*60 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS.
Occultation of o in Sagittarius, by the disk of the Moon, observed
by J. J. de Ferrer, in Veracruz, August <25, 1795, with an
achromatic Telescope of Dulland ii^feet long.
h 9 * b r «
Immersion in apparent time, 9 32 55, and in mean time 9 34 31. 4
Veracruz west of Paris 6 33 42. 8
Immersion in mean time at Paris ..... 16 8 14. 2
Right asotnsion of the sun at the time 154 46 10
c -^ • {Right ascension. . - . ~ .283 6 21. 2
o Sagittarius |s.*dcclination 22 1 18
Apparent obliquity of the ecliptic - 23 27 51
c ~- • CLongitude .282 08 9. 5
oSagittanus }s. la?itudc 0 53 28. 5
Proportion of equatorial and polar diameters of the earth.. .334: 333
o f * t n
Correct latitude of Veracruz = [19 11 53—6 23] 19 5 30
Logarithmic radius at Veracruz 9,999 859
Equatorial horizontal parallax of the <[ 55 50. 2
m
Apparent diameter of the ([—3 Inflection 30 47. 8
Parallax in longitude 16 56. 5
Parallax in latitude 34 38. 2
%>, latitude of the moon by the theory of Laplace 1 30 13. 6
On the 25th & 26th August, the moon was observed in the Royal obser-
vatory of Greenwich, and comparing these observations with,the theory
of Laplace, there results the following error in the theory.
$t m
On the 25th, in long : = X 0. 8 in lat. =X 6- 5
26th — 1. 6 XT. 9
It results from these elements, that the true latitude of the moon at the
moment of immersion was 13020.5
Difference of the apparent latitudes between the <[ & o Sagit 2 13. 8
True conjunction in Paris according to the Greenwich observations in * '
mean time 16 4 58. 9
Conjunction at* Veracruz, by the immersion 9 31 16. 1
Longitude of Veracruz, W. of Paris , 6 33 42. 8
There was no corresponding observation made in Europe,
but as on that and the following day, the transit of the moon
over the meridian was observed in the Royal observatory at
Greenwich, I was enabled to correct the error in the lunar
tables, and found the longitude of Veracruz to be (as above)
6* 33' 42". 8 west of Paris. Citizen Mechlin made the lon-
gitude, from the same observations, 6* 33' 54". 9. This dif-
ference, although very small, might happen, if he was unac-
quainted with a remark published by the Rev. Nevil Maske-
lyne : That the transits of the stars were observed by his assistant
D. K. and that of the moon by Maskelyne himself, who after
Digitized by
Google
ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS. 161
comparing the different observations, ascertained that his as-
sistant had contracted the erroneous habit of marking down
the transits, half a second after they had happened, from
which it became necessary to subtract 0". 5 of time, from the
transits of the stars., If I had omitted this correction, my re-
sult would have been similar to that of Citizen Mechlin.
The present observation has this advantage, that the staf pas-
sed but 2' , 13,; from the apparent centre of the moon, so that
if there had been an uncertainty of 10" in difference of lati-
tude, there could only be onfc of 3" m the difference of me-
ridians.
Observations of the Eclipse of the Svn on the 2 1st February 1 803,
made in the City of Havahna and at Lancaster in Pennsylvania,
U. S.
IN the Havanna the beginning of the eclipse could not be
observed on account of the clouds; at 4\ 18'. SO*, when the
9o4ar disk became clear, the indenture (cuerda) was perceptible.
The distance of the horns, was observed alternately, with an
excellent Heliometer of Holland, by Don Antonio de Robre-
do, ancf by Don Jose Joaquin de Ferrer.
Apparent time*. distance of the ftorn*.
\\POZtCQX 1
4 24 47 15 25
4 26 41 17 06
4 29 12 18 59. 2
Least distance of the Limbs.
k / m *
5 16 45 0 53. 2
O 9 »
Latitude of the Havatma by FerrfeV. 23 09 dp
Longitude W. of Greenwich by the same » • 5 29 16
Beginning of the eclipse in Zamafltr, as observed by Mr. A; £llicott.
h r *
Apparent time n 4 50 57
Latitude of* Lancaster .40 02 39 "> . ** fiiu^»
Longitude W. of Greenwich . 5* 05 03$ by Mr. Elucott.
Elements calculated by tte ttieor/df LafAace, at. 9 25 nW time in Paris.
Z
Digitized by
Google
162 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS*
• O I 0
Longitude of the C reckoned from the apparent Equinox. .11 2 19 24. 2
South Latitude of the C 30. 5
Horizontal parallax in Paris. 61 03. 2
Horizontal semi-diameter of ' the <£ 16 41. 5
Relative Horary motion . . — (37 46 7—2 30 9 —) 35 15. 8
Horary motion in Latitude northerly 3 29. 4
Longitude of the O -by the tables oi Lakmbre 1102 20 47.6
Horizontal semi-diameter of the 0 16 11. 4
Horizontal parallax of the 0 8. 6
Difference of Polar & Equatorial Diameters 1 -334th.
h t *
Conjunction in Paris by the tables, in mean time, 9 27 22
in apparent time 9 13 21 ,
it
«r _*• i a i Cat Lancaster. «■ — 10 09
Vemcal An*les- Jat Havanna. 7 26
From these elements are derived the following results.
b i 9
Conjunction at Lancaster, apparent time. ... 3 59 45
at the Havanna 3 35 08
Lancaster East of the Havanna. ...... 0 24 37
Havanna west of Greenwich 5 29 16
Longitude of Lancaster west of Greenwich. . . ~5 04 35
If we* suppose the eclipse to have commenced at Lancaster
12" earlier, which Mr. Ellicott suspected, in this case the dif-
ference of meridians between the Havanna and Lancaster will
be 24'. 25". and it would result that Lancaster was west of
Greenwich 5\ 04'. 51,"; differing from my result only 12",
which is as near as can be expected ; for as this determination
depends upon the exactness of the theory of the moon, it can-
not be relied on within SO" of time.
These observations may be very important to compare with
others of the same eclipse, which may have been made in
other observatories.
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS.
Without the boundary of the United States.
COAST OF CARACAS.
Latitude North. Long. W. of Greenwich.
o t 0 © t 9
La Guaira (wharf)* 10 36 40 67 00 08
Caracas (town-house) 10 30 24 66 57 18
C. Codera 10 35 36 66 01 44
New - Barcelona (Market.Place) 10 08 14 64 46 23
I. Blanca (S. W. point) 11 51 00 64 40 22
Digitized by
Google
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS.
163
WINDWARD ISLANDS,
Latitude North. Long. W. of Greenwich.
Saba, highest part. .......... 63 18 36
St. Martins, highest part ...18 0428 630627
Isle of Dogs, the westermost. ...... 18 19 00 63 22 15
St. Thomas the port 18 20 30 64 57 06
Sta. Cruz, (the capital). ........174408 644229
ISLAND OF PORTO-RICO.
City of St. John, the capital/ 18 29 10
N. W. point of the island 18 31 18
Watering place of St. Carlos (town). .... 18 27 20
Little I. Desecheo 182348
66
07
48
67
06
10
67
07
22
67
27
48
ISLAND OF
C. Satnana. . .
Altavela, rock.
Navaza L middle.
ST. DOMINGO.
.19* 16 30
17 28 11
18 24 47
ISLAND OF CUBA.
08 34
C. deCruz 19 47 16
Pico de Tarquino 19 52 ST
C. Bueno 20 06 10
C. Mayzi
Punta de Mulas. , 21 04 35
Cayo (Key) Verde 22 05 06
Confites 22 11 44
de Lobos . 22 24 50
Guiancho -....224400
Cayo Sta. Maria (the northermost) 23 12 00
Matanzas (city) 23 02 28
Castle St. Severino 230254
Punta Savanilla 23 04 30
Punta de Guanos 230927
Pan de Matanzas . 23 01 39
Moro Castle, Havanna* 23 09 07
Hill(Cerro)ofCuaijabon 22 47 46
77
44
OOC
76
51
30 c
74
10
45L
74
07
15
75
33
45
77
36
45
77
41
08
77
32
58
78
01
15
78
53
03
81
36
05
81
35
15
81
33
15
81
40
00
81
41
41
82
19
10
83
21
06
BAHAMA CANAL..
©
Cayo Largo. Jg £ ^ ^
Coast of Florida \ 27
Double headed Shot, N. W. point, (los roques) 23
In 10 fathom water on the bank .24
The Northermost of fresh water key. .... 25
Great Isaac 26
Little Isaac feastermost) 25
Memory Rock 26
57
30
80
35
26
52
00
80
33
36
10
00
80
05
45
59
44
80
23
30
38
15
79
07
HT
43
30
79
08
21
01
30
79
02
21
57
00
78
46
15
56
00
79
03
27
Digitized by
Google
16+ GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION?.
BAHAMA ISLANDS.
Latitude North. Long. W. of Greenwich.
• i * o / »
I. Abaeofl, N. E, point 262952 77 00 21
jtocky point in the tame 36 J7 20 77 03 25
Hole in the Wall (or Rock) . 25 50 19 77 15 45
New Providence (Nassau). ' . . ' 25 04 33 77 22 (X?
TheKorthwestermostofthel. of Berry 25 50 40 78 01 3$
the Easternmost, 'idem. ....... .25 22 00 77 41 15
9 fathom water, white sand 254400 78 14 45
24 do 25 44 00 78 39 45
3 do 24 53 00 78 51 45
4 do 24 45 00 78 58 45
ID do. ... 24 38 00 79 07 IS
GULF OF MEXICO.
O / 9
Campeche (great Square). 19 50 15
New Veracruz.* .• . 19 11 58
Mount Orizaba (pko) 19 02 17
Bernal Grande. " . % . T 19 39 42
Oallega Say, the north part. . ... . 19. ,13 . 2Q
Taraiagua (city) 21 15 48
Barra of New Santander. 23 45 . 18
Lake of St. Fernando (6 la Carbovera). ... 24 36 00
Opening, supposed Rio Bravo 25 55 00
Point in the coast , & 46 00
Notis. — • Longitude determined by observation.
( , LongHude determined by lunar distances.
The remainder of the Longitudes arc ascertained by chronometer^
The correctness of Latitudes may be fuUy depended upon.
90
30
37
96
04
20
97
09
20
96
21
05
96
03
49
9t
m
43
97
59
00
97
26
30
97
35
0#
Height of some Mountains in New Spdn, compared with the height
of tltat in Teneriffe.
French Toises.
f Height of the Peak of Orizaba,* above the level of the sea. . . 2795
New bpain. 4 of ^ Town of Xalapa# ggg
£ , Encero 515. %
• See Geographical Positions, in this page.
S Height of the Peak in the Azores according to J. J. Oe F. . . 1238
C according to Don Vizente Tofino.7 10|CA
~" "• jBrigadie? of the Spanish Marine. J ^
Mean height 1249 Toises.
JOSE JOAQUIN DE FERRER.
Digitized by
Google
[ ™5 ]
No. XXX.
Description of the river Mississippi and its Delta, with that of the
adjacent parts of Louisiana. By William Dunbar, of the Nat-
chez, communicated by the Author, a Member of the Society;
through the President.
Read April 6th, 1804
THE multiplicity of the rivers which are tributary to the
Mississippi, extending themselves over an immense tract which
comprehends nearly 20°. in lat. and 30°. in long, must render
this river, at all seasons, one of the most considerable on the
globe. The annual inundation, being supplied from so great a
variety of climates, must naturally be expected to be of long
duration; and may generally be estimated at nearly half the
year; beginning (com. anpts) to rise in January, and fall in
June; the two extremes being frequently extended by the
early autumnal and winter rains in the southern latitudes, and
by the protraction of the northern winters, which retards the
dissolution of the immense accumulations of snow in those
cold regions. At the landing of the Natchez (sfeo miles from
the mouth of the river) the perpendicular ascent of the waters
of the Mississippi, from the lowest ebb to the highest inunda-
tion, may be estimated at 50 feet. At Baton Rouge (200 miles
distant) it was found to be 90 feet; at New-Orleans (80 miles
above the mouth) it is about 12 feet; and at the mouth of
tjhe river* scarcely any perceptible change is observed, except?
ing by a stronger current charged with earthy matter rolling
into the ocean during the season of the inundation; at which
time, all the lakes and communications with the sea are re-
plenished with the waters of the inundation, and the ocean
itself is often repelled to such a degree, that fresh water has
been drawn up, out of sight of land. This great difference in
the perpendicular rise of the waters of the inundation is to be
accounted for from the prodigious number of natural canals
issuing from the Mississippi, and those immense sheets of water,
Digitized by
Google
166 OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
often unbounded by a single horizon, flowing over the banks
never to return, and inundating vast tracts of country which
owe their existence to the creative power of this grand river,
and which finally discharge themselves into the Mexican
Gulph by an infinite number of mouths, many of which
are, in apparent magnitude, equal to the Mississippi itself;
the space embraced by the Delta of this river on the sea coast
being, from information, not less than 3Q of longitude.
Table of the mean altitude of the waters of the Mississippi at
Natchez, from the lowest ebb to the lughest elevation.
Days. . Alt .feet. Days. Alt. feet.
January.... 1 25
15 30
February... 1 35
15 40
March 1 4*5
15 47
April 1 48
May 1 .49
15 50
Juhe 1 50
15 48
July 1 .45
15 40
August 1 20
15 10
September.. 1 ....• 7
15....; 5
October 1 0
15 0
November... 1 5
15 10
December... 1 15
15 20
It is not to be understood that the rise and fall of the Mis-
sissippi, in any one year, ever arrives to the extent of the above
table; it is found that years of least elevations will generally
be those of greatest depressions. The table is calculated only
, to convey some idea of the extremes which have been noted
in a series of years, and of the general progress of the inunda-
tion both in its advancement and retreat.
By information from the inhabitants of the island of New-
Orleans, about 25 leagues above the capital, in the year 1774,
it appears that the Mississippi had overflowed its banks yearly for
three years preceding, by which they had lost their crops, and
Digitized by
Google
AND ITS DELTA. 167
which caused great astonishment, because from the commence-
ment of their settlements, which exceeded 20 years, they had
rarely ever seen die Mississippi surmount the level of its banks,
and that an embankment, called by the french name of levee,
was required only in very few places. Since that period, from
year to year, the river has continued to rise higher and higher,
which' has obliged the inhabitants of Lower Louisiana to pro-
long and reinforce their levees; in so much that embankments
of 5 or 6 feet perpendicular are now required, where as many
inches were formerly sufficient. This increasing ascent of the
inundation may be naturally accounted for by the gradual ex-
tension of the levees on both sides of the river, which became
each succeeding year more necessary for the defence of the new
settlements against the encroachments of this great river.
Those establishments are now extended on either bank to the
distance of 60 leagues above the capital; it is not therefore won-
derful that high banks in the lower parts of Louisiana should
be required to receive and confine a body of water which for-
merly escaped over a great extent, now occupied by the em-
bankments. In spite of this mode of reasoning, which appears
to be sufficiendy satisfactory, the Mississippi has ceased to rise to
its usual height for these* three years past; the defect at Natchez
has not been less than from 8 to VI feet, and proportionally in
the lower country. Many are the conjectures which have
been formed to account for this unexpected great change.
Some of the old inhabitants say that the Mississippi has returned
to its ancient level, while others pretend (ludicrously enough)
that the Missouri has found a new passage into the western Pa-
cific Ocean. It does not appear, that we can assign any phy-
sical cause why the Mississippi should have certain periods of
years in respect to its inundations; nor have observations been
made for a sufficient lengdi of time to establish the fact. The
late period of great inundations, which have fallen chiefly
under my observations, has been about 27 years, not much
short of a cycle of the sun; but whether the inundations of
this great river are subject to the influence of any regular
cause, must be Itit to the investigation of future philosophers,
profoundly skilled in the laws of meteorology.
• This account was commenced in 1600.
Digitized by
Google
166 OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
The waters of the Mississippi are not, at any time, perfectly
transparent: during the absence of the inundation, they are
not much troubled, presenting a slight milky appearance, which
is attributed to the Missouri; but during the time of the inun-
dation, all the rivers which discharge their superabundant waters
into the Mississippi are more or less charged with terrene matter,
and during the decline of the inundation, the turbidness is some-
times so great that a glass filled with its water appears to depo-
sit, in a few minutes, a sediment equal to one eighth of its bulk;
this extreme impurity is not to be attributed entirely to the im-
mediate effect of the Missouri, but principally to the falling in
of the mud banks, either newly formed beneath the influence
of the current of the river; or undermined by its rapidity,
perpetually changing its bed, by enlarging the concavity of i«
bends, and projecting its points or head lands : this operation has
a natural tendency to lengthen the circuitous course of the river ;
but the effect is amply compensated by its own progress; for
the enlargement of the beads frequently brings them* so neair
each other, that the weight of the waters bursts at once thtongft
the solid soil, forming in a few days a new bed capable of con-
veying the whole waters of this mighty river, and shortening
thereby ite course many leagues. The disruption \Vhieh took
place at Point Coup6e^ cut off ten leagues, aftd withw this
territory the cut-off at the Homochito has thrown to the east
of the Mississippi an island of seven leagues in circuit, and at
the Yazooz a similar effect has been produced on the wefct side
by the formation ef an iskmd of five leagues ih circumference.
Those islands are now both converted into peninsulas, by the
formation of new knd across one of the mouths of the old
channel, while the other is partially kept open by the discharge
of the (comparatively) small rivers of the Yazooz and Homo*-
chito; the former of those, nevertheless, is not inferior in magni-
tude to that great commercial river the Thames, The conse*
quence of those disruptions, is the formation of lakes, which,
in process of time, may be far removed from the actual chan-
nel of the river, and in effect are now found to be scattered in
all situations over the immense valley of the Mississippi.
When those lakes are first approached, they present so peiv
feet a resemblance of the Mississippi, with regard to breadth.
Digitized by
Google
I
AND ITS DELTA. 169
die appearance of the banks, and the natural serpentine form
of its course, that many persons have been deceived thereby, and
recognized their error only by the discovery of the stagnant
state of the water, the appearance on its borders of the Nym-
phaea Nelumbo, and other aquatic plants; no person therefore
doubts that those lakes have all, in their turn, served to convey
the waters of this father of rivers, and now during the season
of the inundation still flow with a full current, contributing
their aid to the evacuation of the waters of a thousand rivers
which precipitate themselves into the valley of the Mississippi.'
When we take a survey of this valley, upwards of 30 miles
wide opposite to the Natchez, diverging very obtusely as we ap-
proach the sea-coast, where if is perhaps not less than S° in
long, and that in no part of it do we discover any other soil
than such as is now daily deposited by the waters of the Missis-
sippi, it is impossible not to believe that this valley has, in the
beginning, been a branch or inlet of the ocean, which recei-
ved into its bosom this great river, similar to the River de-la-
Plata, the Gulph of St. Laurence, Delaware bay, and many
others not remarkable for the alluvial properties of their rivers.
When, on the other hand, we contemplate the effects of the cre-
ative power of the Mississippi, which has filled up this prodigious
space with soil, more or less solid, and which must at Natchez
exceed 100 feet perpendicular above the level of the sea, sloping
gradually like an immense glacis to the coast of the bay of
Mexico, where nevertheless it does not terminate, but shelving
off by continual accumulation frequently embarrasses vessels
out of sight of land, along the coast, to the west of the, Missis-
sippi; I say when we survey this immense work performed by
the hand of nature, we cannot accord with the opinions of cer-
tain visionary philosophers, who have been pleased to amuse
themselves with the pretended infantile state of our continent,
compared to their trans-atlantic world ; but, on the contrary, we
must grant to it an incalculable antiquity. When the inunda-
tion is at its height, the whole valley is replenished with water
every wherein motion, making its progress towards the ocean;
so that at that season the river may be said to be 30 tfwles or
more in breadth at Natchez; the waters which pasa over the
a a
Digitized by
Google
170 OP THE MISSISSIPPI,
west bank of the main channel never return; on the east, a
chain of high land, which at many points is washed by the
liver, meandering along its valley, compels its waters to rejoin
the primitive stream; but from Baton Rouge, the high land
which has hitherto held a southerly course, diverges suddenly
to south east, and is no more visited by the grand channel of
the Mississippi; all the waters which escape to the eastward
between Baton Rouge and Manshac (15 miles) are collected by
the Iberville, which, passing through a breach in the high land
of about 60 yards wide, delivers its contents to the river Amity
which empties itself into lake Maurepas, communicating with
the ocean by the intervention of the more considerable lake
Pontchartrain : the high land is continued in a very narrow
tongue or promontory, in a south easterly direction, along the
island of New-Orleans, which is disruptured in many places,
thereby venting the waters of the inundation into the lakes,
which otherwise would be collected into an oblong bason, for-
med by the high land on the one hand, and the bank of the
river on the other — one half of the. island of New-Orleans
would have thereby become so completely inundated as to be
uninhabitable.
The perpendicular height of the high lands above the level
of the inundation is from 200 to 300 feet at Natchez; at Baton
Rouge it does not exceed 25, and on the island of New-Or-
leans it declines so rapidly as frequently to be lost under the
accumulations of soil deposited by the waters of the inunda-
tion. In the sides of a canal from New-Orleans to the river
St. John's, communicating with lake Pontchartrain, I discovered
the continuation of the high land cut through to the breadth
of little more than 20 feet.
To a stranger, the first view of the Mississippi conveys not
that idea of grandeur, which he may have pictured to him-
self: his first judgment will rest upon the appearance of its
breadth, in which respect it is inferior to many rivers of much
less note. Its principal channel is rarely a mde in width any
where below the Ohio, unless where its stream is divided by
islands or shallows; it is not unfrequently less than half a mile.
The magnitude of this river is not to be computed by its width.
Digitized by
Google
AND ITS DELTA, 171
but by its depth; in which it is perhaps equal to any on the
globe; but is so contracted at the place of its entrance into the
ocean, as to be there less in width than k is found to be at a
thousand miles from its mouth; the cause of this peculiarity is,
perhaps, not difficult to develope. The natural effect of rivers is
toencrease continually the depth and breadth of their beds, by
the perpetual abrasion of their waters ; such must be the con-
sequence with regard to all rivers which do not supply by allu-
vion a sufficient quantity of matter to counteract this effect. Cer-
tain rivers, which in the upper part of their course pass through
fertile regions, whose rich and tender soil is easily broken
down and carried away by the impetuosity of the current,
not only supply this deficiency, but discharge such inconceiv-
able quantities of earthy matter, as to fill up, in a great measure,
those spacious bays and channels, scooped out by the hand of
nature, in order to facilitate the mingling of their waters with
those of the ocean; in such circumstances the breadth of the
river will always be in proportion to the mean quantity of
water discharged during the time it flows within its banks; for
it is to be remarked, that during the time of the inundation
the common channel of the river is in some measure lost in
the immensity of waters, which flow over its banks in all di-
rections; the bottom and sides of the channel, during thi*
time, suffer no abrasion, but, on the contrary, from the diminu-
tion^ the velocity of the inferior currents, gain rapidly upon
the breadth of the river : ihe moment the current of the river
is confined within its proper banks, it begins to exert its do-
minion over its own channel, and fashions its bed by the mo-
mentum of its waters, attacking sometimes one side, sometimes
the other, according as the main filament of the stream is de-
flected from shore to shore; by which means large portions of
the newly-created soil are preserved, while in other situations (he
more compact earth is undermined and borne into the ocean,
and thus an equilibrium is restored between the channel and its
included waters; hence it comes to pass that rivers which run
through alluvial countries are much narrower in proportion to
the quantity of their waters, than those whose courses are Qver
rocks, grayfel or sand; but on the other hand their depths
Digitized by
Google
t
172 OF t»E MISSISSIPPI,
are great, and they are consequently better fitted for the pUN
poses of navigation. The Mississippi is supposed to be naviga*
ble (pursuing the western branch of Missouri) 3000 miles at
least from the ocean. Those who have studied the theory o#
rivers inform us, that the stability of the bed of a river de-
pends upon a due equilibrium between the velocity of the
current and the tenacity of those matters which compose its-
bottom and sides; the velocity of rivers is greatest at the sun
face, gradually diminishing downwards; hence when the bofc
torn is composed of matter of the most yielding nature, the
channel will continue to deepen until the velocity at bottom
is almost nothing, and the depth of the wafer will be regulated*
by those circumstances: the bottom of the bed of the 'Missis*
aippi, within the alluvial country, being composed of th#
finest sand and lightest earth extremely comminuted, it tfrtotf
surprising that its depth should be comparatively great; itff
soundings have (it is believed) never been taken with minute
attention, but from New*Orl6ana to the moutk of the rfreiV
its 4epth is said to be from 50 to 70 fathoms,- under the threap
of the current, which follows the qoncave shore; diminishing;
gradually towards the elbows, where there are frequently con-*
siderable shallows. The sudden effect of the diminution of thtf
velocity of water is no where more remarkable than at th<f
mouth of this river, for the rolling torrent no sooner arrives atr
the ocean, than, finding its bed indefinitely enlarged, if spread*
on all hands; the thread of the cunrent diverges in#> an infi-
nite number of filaments like radii from a center; the velocity
of the mass of water rapidly diminishes until, no longer able
to propel the matter hitherto suspended and swept along by
the swiftness of the stream, it is deposited in form of a crescent,
opposing to the mouth of the river, a bar with from 12 to SiO
feet water. The current being less, immediately to the right
and left, than in front, of the mouth of the river, the deposi«
tion and accumulation of matter will consequently proceed
more rapidly on either side, and the velocity of the current
being increased by the contraction of the channel, tffe bar will
be protruded further into the ocean; hence it appears why the
moutfjs of all alluvial rivers terminate in a promontory pro*
Digitized by
Google
AW ITS DJSfcTA. V?S
jecting: tnore or less into tbe ofce&n; this last mentioned opera-
tion of nature points out the method of improving the naviga-
tion of the Entrance of the Mississippi, which may be effected
at no very considerable expense by carrying out a pier on
each side of- the principal branch, composed of piles,, so far as
may be found sufficient to procure the desired depth ; - the bar
will thereby be thrown into deeper water, and in process
of time will accumulate and ascend to its former height,
which will demand a new prolongation of the piers. Every
small rivulet passing through* lower Louisiana is a miniature of
the Mississippi; what may be performed upon a small scale in
respect to the latter, will certainly succeed (by well directed
efforts) on the former. — The river St. John's, 60 to 80 feet
wide, entering lake Pontchartrain to the north of New-Orleans,
was found frequently so choaked up and impeded by a bar
across its mouth, that canoes could sometimes with difficulty
enter ; sloops and batteaux being obliged at such times to re-
ttiain in the lake exposed to danger; the government difected
two very simple piers, each composed of a double row of round
rough piles, to be carried from the shore across the bar, and
although the piers were pervious to the water, yet so much
Velocity was acquired, that the bar was very speeaily swept off,
and the river has always since remained navigable for small
sloops and schooners,, which proceed up to the city by the
river and canal of Carondelet.
' The depth of the river diminishes considerably as we advance
upwards; probably owing to the increased tenacity of the mat-
ter, forming its bed; at Natchez, when the waters are low, it
is about 12 fathoms, and there are situations below the Ohio,
where the ordinary boats have been embarrassed to find a pas-
sage both upwards. and downwards; a moderate fresh never-
theless renders the Mississippi navigable up to the falls of St.
Anthony, about 2000 miles from its mouth. The breadth of
the river appears to be upon the increase upwards, in propor-
tion as we get above the alluvial country, as high as the Mis-
souri, notwithstanding the loss of a number of principal rivers
which flow in below; in latitude 42°. it is said to be half a
Digitized by
Google
174 OP THE MISSISSIPPI,
mile in breadth, which probably equals its mean breadth
from Yazooz to its mouth.
The margin of the river is the highest land to be found in
the valley of the Mississippi. — As the river overflows its banks,
the waters immediately begin to deposit their grossest particles,
which are chiefly sand and black marl, and in their progress
backwards this deposition is continued until at length, a mat-
ter is deposited so highly levigated that, upon the retiring of the
waters, it assumes a compactness and solidity resembling pitch :
when the river by disruption alters its course, and new accumu-
lations of slime sand and marl are laid upon this very compact
earth, a false belief might be induced that this solid soil is not
the offspring of the river, but the dhginal parent earth coeval
with the Mississippi itself, upon which this great river had af-
terwards deposited the rich spoils of the northern regions, borne
down by its mighty tide; this compact soil I have found at the
depth of from 10 to 30 feet; and in other situations no appear-
ance is to be seen of any other than the common soil formed
of the mud of the river. The soil near the river is sandy, par-
ticularly that which has been lately formed; from a quarter to
half a mile from the margin of the river the sand is less appa-
rent, and it loses its name of € terre sablonneuse/ acquiring that
of € terre grasse/ being the richest black marl, with a moderate
admixture of sand ; at greater distances, and frequently at some
depth under the last mentioned soils, is found the above men-
tioned compact earth, called glaise (potters earth); it is no
doubt eminendy adapted to the use of the potter, though hi-
therto not much applied to the manufacture of earthen ware*
Upon all lands long subject to culture and defended from the
inundation, although near to the margin, the appearance of
sand i6 almost lost, but it is evident from the friability of the
soil, and the facility with which it is cultivated, that a large por-
tion still remains intimately mixed with it, whereas the terre
grasse (unmixed or pure marl) yields with difficulty to the
plow; it exhibits proofs of the richest marl, a slight shower
causing it to crumble into powder after being turned up; yet as
our climate is exposed to sudden and violent falls of rain with
Digitized by
Google
AND *TS DELTA. 175
subsequent hot sun-shine, it frequently becomes so firm and un-
yielding, after the crop has been planted, that no mode
of cultivation can be conveniendy applied, but barely scratch-
ing the surface with the hoe; yet this became with the French
indigo planters a favourite soil; although less productive, it is
more easily kept clear of weeds, the compacted soil refusing
a passage to their tender fibrous roots, while the vigorous tap-
root of the indigo plant conquers the obstinacy of the subja-
cent stratum. From the river bank a natural glacis is formed,
whose declivity at New-Orleans may be at the rate of 6 or 8
inches in 100 feet, to the distance of 6 or 700 toises, diminish-
ing, after which the descent becomes almost imperceptible, and
is gradually lost in swamps, marshes and lakes, which finally
communicate with the sea.
This peculiar structure of the lands formed by the operation
of the great river itself, has pointed out to the ingenuity of man,
a simple and natural mode of defending his plantation against
the encroachments of the inundation : he commences by form-
ing an embankment near the margin of the river, elevated
above the highest waters and of sufficient strength to resist their
pressure ; he is now protected from the direct influx of the Missis-
sippi, butthe transudation from the river is so considerable, that
his plantation would be no better than a quag-mire; he is there-
fore under the necessity of establishing a regular system of ditches
crossing each other at right angles, by which the soil is com-
pletely drained and placed in the most favorable situation to dis-
play the wonders of its inexhaustible fertility. — Within the Mis-
sissippi territory a vast body of alluvial land exists, but the scheme
of draining by cross ditches would produce here no beneficial
effect, because the waters find no means of escaping in the rear,,
but being hemmed in by the high land, would at length ac-
cumulate so as to produce an immense bason, bordered by the
embankment on one hand, and by the high land on the other:,
although no successful attempt is likely to be made in our day,,
yet posterity will reclaim those lands: when the industry of a.
full population, shall have stamped an intrinsic value upon the*
soil of our country, the ingenuity of man will discover a reme-
dy ; probably the steam engine so highly improved of late years*
Digitized by
Google
. 116 O* TJELE 'MISSISSIPPI,
will be called in to accomplish this object. Its application in
Holland to the draining of jthe Haerlem meer, and even for the
reduction of the Zuyder-Zee, which the late war, it appears, has
indeed suspended, leaves hut little doubt of its full efficacy for a
purpose of inferior magnitude. Lands susceptible of cultivation
do not upon an average extend to three quarters of a mile from the
river, although in some places they may reach to two miles, but
in xather situations do not exceed one quarter jpf a mile : there is
no doubt that a scrupulous attention to the perfection x>f the em-
bankments will every where augment the quantity of cultivable
land ; and we hazard nothing in predicting that at some future
day, the productive surface of lower Louisiana will be multiplied
tenfold; a rich and enterprising population, conducted by a wise
and patriotic government, will pierce, with navigable canals,
this alluvial country in ail directions : grand issues will be pro-
vided to conduct to the ocean the superfluous waters which how
drown, for three months of the year, nine tenths of the country;
the whole surface of the land will then be reclaimed and become
fit for the habitation of man ; the richest harvests will be col-
lected from a 3oil of the most exuberant fertility, which per-
haps no time can exhaust : should however vegetation at length
seem to advance with a sluggish pace, the planter has his reme-
dy at hand, he may call in the aid of the elements; let the
waters of a single inundation flow over his field, and it will re-
ceive a manure which 20 years cultivation cannot absorb. Re-
servoirs might be formed, as in ancient Egypt, to retain a por-
tion of the waters of the inundation, but this happy climate
does not require such precaution; the season of the inundation
furnishes less rain than at other times, but it is so ordered by the
course of nature, that about the time the waters retire, refresh-
ing showers fall almost daily throughout lower Louisiana, which
continue to invigorate the crops until the approach to the har-
vest season.
The inundation takes place during the season that the
crops are under cultivation, and in the precise time when re-
quired for perfecting the-culture of rice, which is therefore most
conveniently placed in the rear of the plantation; nor is the in-
undation necessary for any other species of crops, but on the
Digitized by
Google
AND ITS DELTA. . ' 177
contrary is often extremely injurious by its excess; the embank-
ments are frequently ruptured, and the crops of many planta-
tions are totally lost; the lives of the inhabitants are sometimes
in danger from the disruption of their levies in the night-time;
this however is but a rare case. The planters possess great expe-
rimental knowledge in the art of arresting the progress of this
devastation, and even entirely shutting up the breach which
has been made by the torrent of the Mississippi. They begin,
their operations at some distahce from the extremities of the
breach at sound parts of the embankment, and, advancing in
form of a crescent towards the margin of the river, where they
know the land to be most elevated, they are often enabled to
shut out the river by this process, the greater part of the work
being thus carried on in water comparatively still ; whereas every
inch of the breach is acted apon by a furious torrent, be-
coming every instant deeper and wider. A very great breach
happened during Governor Miro's administration about three
leagues above New-Orleans; an immense body of water advan-
ced on its rear and threatened to drown the city; the people
were discouraged. — The Governor called out all the assistance
which could be spared from town and country and placed him-
self in the row of common labourers, transferring his sod from
hand to hand, to those who, from their superior knowledge in
this species of hydraulic architecture, were employed in con-^
structing the provisional embankment: they did not succeed
in completely shutting up the breach, but the quantity of over-
flowing water was reduced to one quarter, and the extremities
of the new lev6e were fortified until the retiring of the waters;
vast, quantities of fish were precipitated upon the land, which
corrupted and filled the air with a pestilential stench. The
town was unusually sickly that season.
The Mississippi is already celebrated on account of the salubri-
ty of its waters; in which respect, no doubt, it rivals the JSile.
It seems to be admitted (perhaps without due investigation) that
it possesses properties favorable to the multiplication of the hu-
man species, by promoting fecundity ; it is probably more certain
that the use of its waters contributes to banish several disorders
common in other countries : the gout would be unknown were
b b
Digitized by
Google
178 OF THE MISSISSIPPI,
it not introduced by strangers; and instances of the stone and
gravel are extremely rare. The Creoles who drink this water are
a comely race, both male and female, of middle stature, and
handsome persons; the males are ingenious, active, bold and
enterprising; fond of hunting and other laborious amusements,
and capable of enduring great fatigue: the gracefulness and
beauty of the ladies are universally acknowleged.
The water of the Mississippi is drunk in great purity by the
first class of French planters, and inhabitants of New-Orleans; it
is suffered to deposit by repose (in large earthen jars containing
a hundred or more gallons) its sediment and feculencies; the
precipitation is some times accelerated by bruised peach stones
and kernels. Volney says that in Egypt bruised bitter almonds
are applied to the same purpose; certainly the process of the
Chinese is much neater by meafls of allum. The inhabitants ge-
nerally employ two jars, in order that one may be filled while
the other is in use, by which means they always drink the purest
water: those who are long in the habit of drinking the Missis-
sippi water, cannot immediately reconcile themselves to the taste
of any other.
When the river is low and the current extremely gentle, the
water possesses but a very slight degree of turbidness; the cur-
rent is however at all times sufficiently strong to roll an immense
body of water into the ocean, in which respect the diminutive
Nile cannot bear a comparison; the waters of the latter being
frequently in a state of ^corruption immediately before the com-
mencement of the inundation ; the Nile becomes also shallow
in many places, whereas a ship of the line might find, at all times,
sufficient water 6 or 700 miles up the Mississippi, were the im-
pediment on the bar removed.
There is a very striking difference in the momentum of the
waters of the two rivers at their entrance into the sea; that of
the Mississippi is at all times sufficient to preserve 17 feet of water
upon the bar of the principal branch, whereas the mouths of
the great branches of the Nile are so choaked up with mud
and sand, that small coasting vessels can scarcely enter, and
this is practicable only through a very narrow winding channel,
• Volney.
Digitized by
Google
I
{
AND ITS DELTA. 179
which resembles very much the entrance into many of the
creeks, which to the westward of the Mississippi serve to dis-
embogue the waters of the inundation.
The Mississippi has its Delta as well as the Nile, but that of the
former is much more extensive than that of the latter; if we sup-
pose the ap x of the Delta of Egypt to be at Grand Cairo, near
which the high land diverges considerably to the east, its lati-
tude from south to north will be nearly a degree and a half;
and its base, along the sea coast, about two degrees: if we admit
the Delta of the Mississippi to commence only at Natchez
(although there is an immense body of alluvial land above) op-
posite to which the high lands on the west of the valley open
to the right with a rapid divergence, its latitude will be not
less than two degrees and a half, and its longitude, on the coast,
about three degrees; hence it results that the superficial con-
tent of the Mississippi Delta is to that of the Nile as 5 to 2,
which may be adopted as the proportional magnitude of the
two rivers, though there is reason to believe that our Nile pours
into the ocean a much greater proportion of water than what
we have stated, and that the Delta of the Mississippi would have
been much more extensive, were it not placed in the tract of a
. perpetual vortex formed by an immense current in the sea, oc-
casioned by the tropical east winds forcing the ocean against
the oblique coast ot America, which produces a continual tiux
between the mam land and island of Cuba, giving birth to the
well known guiph stream; but a great body of this current,
rushing on with impetuosity in a direct line northerly, impin-
ges against the west coast of East Florida, and is there deflected
and dashed along the coasts of East and West Florida, Louisiana
and Mexico; and by the promontory of Yucatan is thrown
again into the main current, thus constituting a permanent
vortex, which sweeps along a great proportion of the spoils of
the Mississippi, as fast as they are projected into the ocean : in
confirmation of this position it may be remarked that the bay
of Camp^chy, so favourably situated for die reception and reten-
tion Oi aliuvial matters, is exceedingly embarrassed with shoals of
sand and mud ; so that vessels of moderate but taen can scarce-
ly get within 2mdes of any part of the coast; nus evn is upon
Digitized by
Google
180 OF THE SfISSlSSI*PI,
the encrcase, and can only be attributed to the operation of
the current, taking up every moveable matter along our coast,
and depositing it in every bay or creek in contact with the cir-
cumference of the vortex : there are no alluvial rivers flowing
into the bay of Campechy ; but the Rio del Norte, and one or
two others of less note, contribute no doubt to the production
of this effect, by throwing their mite into the ocean.
Pursuing our parallel of the two rivers, we shall find that the
Mississippi as well as the Nile, proceeds to the ocean by two
permanent branches, that to the west breaks off, about two or
three miles below the Red River, and bears the Indian name of
Chafalaya, or river of the Apelousas : there is every appearance
that this branch may have anciendy been a continuation of the
great Red river; the quantity of water delivered by the one and
received by the otjier being nearly equal, and the general ap-
pearance of the banks and common breadth of the channels
being very similar. The Chafalaya is dangerous for boats under
the conduct of unskilful pilots descending the Mississippi; the
velocity of the stream passing laterally out of the Mississippi, oc-
casions an attraction (if the term may be admissible) of all float-
ing bodies at a considerable distance from the shore; if the un-
wary or ignorant voyager falls within the sphere of this attraction,
and his boat be not sufficiently manned to enable him to escape,
by taking an oblique course out of this unexpected suction, he
. is precipitated into the western branch; heavy boats connot re-
gain the Mississippi; the lightest must be well manned to stem
the extreme rapidity of the current; the perpetual rising of the
bank and bed of the great river from the influence of theinun-
dation, is probably the cause of so precipitate a descent into the
smaller river. The Chafalaya was formerly, but is not now na-
vigable into the country of the Apelousas and Alacapas; the
inconceivable quantity of drift timber which went down, had
formed many islands, which so contracted the different chan-
nels, that at length they have been entirely shut up, (not to the
passage of water, but) to die passage of every kind of craft;
there is said to be at this time a floating bridge upon the Chafa-
laya, ten leagues along the course of the river, and continually
accumulating by the cause which produced it ; some parts of it
Digitized by
Google
m
.v
r. *
AND ITS DELTA. * 181
are so compact as to have an appearance of solidity; and ve-
getation has made considerable progress thereon.* The Cha-
felaya in its progress, through the Delta collects many other in-
ferior streams, and before its junction with the ocean becomes,
in certain situations, a mile in width; it is said to have nine or ten
feet water on its bar ; it is probably superior to the Phatmetic
branch of the Nile, but is not equal to one tenth part of thef Mis-
sissippi* The mouth of the Chafalaya is probably distant from
the principal mouth of the Mississippi nearly 150 miles, and is
now unnoticed; at some future period itsrker will be crowded
with vessels and boats transporting the .rich harvests of its ever-
productive soil. There are many other inlets along the coast
of the Delta which flow with fresh water during the inundation,
and admit the waters of the ocean at other seasons: those have
all got their bars, and are, as before observed, miniatures of die
Mississippi; a small tide of about three feet perpendicular faci-
litates the passage of those bars for small craft, some of them
are seen above water while the tide is out; die remedy for the
removal of those bars has already been noticed : our posterity
will see those inlets or bayous converted by the hand of industry
into extensive navigable canals, penetrating in all directions this
tract of inexhaustible fertility, which will become the garden
of the United States.
Sugar having become of late a staple commodity of the lower
country, it cannot be uninteresting to enquire how far, in its
present state, it is susceptible of that culture. The following
short statement is derived from the practical experience of the
planters. It is now admitted that the sugar cane do$s not arrive
(regularly) to full maturity beyond 75 miles above New-Orleans,
following the sinuosities of the river; and this corresponds with
a line drawn westerly along the sea coast of Pensacola and Mo-
bille, crossing the island of New-Orleans: below the city the
lands decline so rapidly that, beyond 1 5 miles, the soil is so much
imbrued in the waters of the Mississippi, as to be totally unfit
for the culture of the cane; within those limits, the most expe-
* Note. A certain extent of the Red River is in this situation; the water is heard gurgling under
foot, being completely concealed by a s ra< um of timber upon which there is soil sufficient to sup-
port plants* and even trees of moderate size.
A
Digitized by
Google
182 OP THE MISSISSIPPI,
rienced planters admit that one quarter of the cultivated lands of
any considerable plantation may be planted in cane, one quar-
ter left for pasture, and the remaining half employed for pro-
visions &c. and a reserve for change of crops: One Parisian
arpent, of 180 feet square, may be expected to produce, on an
average, 1 hhd. (12 cwt.) of sugar, and fifty gallons of rum.
From the above data, admitting that both sides of the river are
planted for riinety miles in extent, and about three quarters of
a mile in depth, it will result that the annual product may a-
mount, in round numbers, to twenty five thousand hhds. of
sugar, with twelve thousand puncheons of rum. Enterprising
young planters say, that one third, or even one half of the ara-
ble land might be planted in cane; it may also be remarked,
that a regular supply of provisions from above, at a moderate
price, would enable the planter to give his attention to a greater
body of land cultivated in cane : several of the departing bran-
ches of the Mississippi furnish strips of land along their mar-
gins within the sugar latitude; there is also a portion of the
Alacapas, parallel to the sea coast, favorable for this culture;
every circumstance being therefore taken into view, we may
admit that in the existing state of the lower country, double
the quantities of sugar and rum above mentioned may be pro-
duced, although hitherto the annual product has only been
about 5000 hhds. of sugar.
When the immense regions watered by the tributary streams
of the Mississippi, particularly those extending to the sources
of the Missouri, shall be opened up and cultivated by the per-
severing labor of man, our winters will be enchained in the
north, and a milder climate will extend itself over the whole of
the Delta; and as it lies under the same parallels of latitude,
so will its productions be similar to those of the Delta of Egypt :
and if we extend our views to a future period, when die wa-
ters of this great river shall be completely under the control of
man, by a regular system of canals and embankments, such as
probably existed in Egypt during its best days under its ancient
kings, some idea may be formed of the inestimable value of
a country, which most happily for itself and for the United
States, now constitutes a very precious portion of the union.
T
Digitized by
Google
AND ITS DELTA. 18S
It has already been said that the tides on the coast rise about
three feet perpendicular, but they are not lunar tides; another
cause must be sought: the bay of Mexico being a species of
Mediterranean sea, surrounded by the continent and a close
chain of islands, is not sensibly susceptible of the gravitating pow-
er of the suit and moon ; the tides take place only once in
twenty four hours, and nearly at the same hours in the morning;
they depend altogether upon the winds, which, during the re-
gular summer season, blow in upon the land all day; and in
the night, it is either calm, or there is a small returning land
ibreeze : the sea breeze commences in the morning about nine
or ten o'clock, and ceases in the evening about sun set; the wa-
ters having acquired a momentum from the action of the wind
continue to rise until about day break, when it is high water;
a tide depending upon such a cause must be subject to frequent
anomalies: in the winter, as may be expected from this theory,
the tides are extremely irregular, being governed by the va-
riable winds of that uncertain season.
This small tide produces an effect upon the Mississippi; I
have noted at New-Orleans (during the absence of the inun-
dation) a rise of fourteen inches, about sun rise ; and at Man-
shac from 6 to 8 inches; this ascent of the waters of the Mis-
sissippi i^>roduced merely by a swell or wave; the current at
the same time continually issuing from the channel into the
dfcean; this tide requires a considerable time to make its pro-
gress upwards against the current: those who have perused
Condamine's account of his voyage down the Maragnon are
acquainted with every thing that can be said upon this curi-
ous subject. The great Newton has observed, that the tides
which take place nearly at the same time at London-bridge,
and at the mouth of the Thames, are not the same; but that
at the bridge is the same which happened twelve hours before
at the Nore.
It is probable that any tide coming up to New-Orleans is the
same which arrived three days before at the mouth of the river,
consequently the distance from New-Orleans to the mouth of
the river is divided by the tides into three parts; (i. e,) one
tide at each extremity, and two others making their progress
Digitized by
Google
184 OP THS MISSISSIPPI,
upwaHs. This statement is only conjectural, founded upon
probable circumstances, having been unable to procure a suf-
ficient number of accurate observations to be made at differ-
ent points.
When the river is very low, the velocity of the stream ir
scarcely a mile pjr hour at Natchez, and much slower at New-
Orleans, probably not above half a mile; but during the time
of the inundation from 4 to 5 miles. — It is asserted that the
current is swifter during the night than the day; this perhaps
might he accounted for by saying, that there is generally a
breeze by day blowing up the river, which opposes the current
and dams up the water to a certain degree ; and that the night
being generally still, the water descends with accelerated velo-
city;, but another fact is not so easily accounted for,, viz.
that saw-mills, which are constructed upon canals leading from
tiie Mississippi, perform more work (caeteris paribus) in the night
than in the day, the number of strokes of the saw being found
greater in a given time. — Xhe encrease of the specific gravity
of water by the coldness of the night will be of no avail in
the solution of this question, because the weight and velocity
of water in a lateral canal cannot thereby be encreased. We
cannot suppose that the evaporation during the day produces a
sensible effect in diminishing the quantity of water, because the
water thus diminished in the course of the day arrives at the
mill during the night. Is it not rather owing to the perfect
stillness of the night, that the machine performs its office with-
out any unnecessary agitation or friction,, which in the day
is greatly promoted by the vivifying iriHuence of the sun, cau-
sing a more rapid circulation of the atmosphere, and exciting
to motion every body on the surface of the earth, whether ani-
mate or inanimate? Ii is known to mariners that the reiaUve
cessation of motiop on board a vessel under sail, contributes
greatly to the rapidity of her movement. This phenomenon
merits a more perfect solution.
Although the velocity of the water has been said to be from
one to five miles per hour, yet this is to be understood of what
may be called the thread of the current, it being considerably
less along the shores, aud very frequent counter-currents or ed-
Digitized by
Google
AKD ITS DELTA, 185
dies of great extent are found in favorable situations, which
greatly facilitate the ascending navigation of the river; but as
the current is continually deflected from shore to shore, boats
are at many points unable to stem the force of the current,
and are under the necessity of crossing frequently to get as
far as possible out of the main current.
No abrasion takes place at the bottom of the channel of the
Mississippi {in Lower Louisiana), an equilibrium has long since
been established; it is believed rather that its bed is on the rise:
as the margin of the river rises by the influence of every inun-
dation which passes over it, it is thought that the bottom must
rise also; but this effect must depend altogether upon the pro-
trusion of the cradle of the river into the ocean, by which means
the extremity of the inclined plane which the river has carved
out for the conveyance of its waters, being prolonged horizon-
tally, the waters within the channel must acquire a new eleva-
tion, placing themselves parallel to their former position, and
the bed of the river will rise proportionably so far only as the
alluvial bottom extends; and thus there will be a low but pro-
gressive rise of the margin and bed of the river, which is per-
fecdy agreeable to observation.
The formation of land is surprisingly quick in certain situati-
ons; the moment the waters lose their great velocity, they begin
to deposit their contents; the most favorable position is on either
side of the main channel, where the current is nearly but not
absolutely destroyed : as for example, when the river suddenly
makes a breach or cut-off from bend to bend, leaving a circle of
several leagues of the former bed with little or no current, the
waters immediately begin to block up the two entrances, leaving
the interior in form of a lake : in 5 years the soil will be tole-
rably firm, nearly of equal height with the adjoining lands, and
covered with forests of willow and cotton-wood (probably popu-
lus deltoides*) 50 feet high ; some parts of the old channels were
perhaps not less than a hundred feet deep: this wonderful crea-
tive power of the Mississippi may, by the ingenuity of man, be
applied to the accomplishment of grand objects : by proper em-
bankments, and a regular supply and discharge of the waters of
c c
• Of Bartranu
Digitized by
Google
186 Ofr THE MISSISSIPPI,
the Mississippi the surface of the earth may be raised to a great
height, for above the general level of the inundation : travellers
inform us that the towns and villages of the Delta of the Nile are
built Upon elevated situations, which are so many islands during
the season of the inundation. How shall we account for the for-
mation of those islands? we have no reason to believe that they
pre-existed in the Delta, and they Could not be formed by the
natural agency of the inundation; the accumulation of earth by
mere labor for the formation of so many islands would have
been an Herculean task; it is therefore more rational to suppose
that the ingenuity of the aborigines of ancient Egypt, directed by
the example of nature herself, pursued the more simple and fa-
cile mode of elevating the site of their habitations in the manner-
above described.
We shall conclude the above imperfect sketch by observing*
that it is the result of occasional observation for a series of years,
and of scattered information collected from various sources, pro-
bably often uncertain, from a cause which is unfortunately too
general; viz. the extreme inattention of persons, even of some
education, to the most curious phenomena passing daily under
their review.
Circumstances did not favor the investigation of several points
of curious enquiry* It would be desirable to ascertain the
obliquity of the inclined plane by which the Mississippi conveys
its waters to the ocean, both at the surface and at the bottom
of the river, and at various distances from its mouth; as also
the respective velocities of the water in those positions* at low
and high water. The difference of the velocities of the water
at and under the surface, was turned to account by an ingeni-
ous master of a vessel, who, finding himself detained in his de-
scent by a calm, dropt his anchor ten or a dozen fathom below
the surface, by which his vessel was so much retarded in the
stream as to enable him to steer sufficiently to keep clear of the
shore. This hint might perhaps be improved to advantage : a
much more perfect instrument than an anchor may be invented
for the purpose of holding the inferior current, and in situations
similar to the Gulf-stream, a vessel may thereby be enabled to
escape an enemy,.
Digitized by
Google
AND ITS &SLTA, 187
A Chart of the alluvial country is a desideratum, with which
it is to be hoped the curious will in due time be obliged, under
the present enlightened government: a correct sketch of the va-
rious reservoirs and canals which this great river has formed for
the reception and disemboguement of its immense volume of
waters, will, become the basis of the vast improvements which
at a future day will be made upon this inestimable portion of
the United States.
WILLIAM DUNBAR.
Natch**, Jmhuuqt 1, 1804.
Digitized by
Google
[ 188 ]
No, XXXI.
MONTHLY and annual Results of Meteorological Observation*
made by William Dunbar, Esq. at the Forest, 4 Miles East qf
the River Mississippi, in Latitude 31°. S288. North, and Lan-
gitude 91°. 30*. West of Greenwich. Communicated by the
Author.
Read, April 6th, 1804.
Digitized by
Google
J
METEOROLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS.
18£
YEAR, 1803.
THERMOMETER,
within.
THERMOMETER,
without.
BAROMETER.
RAIN.
f§
rr
Beg.
2. p
t3
8
if 3
Mean
height.
Least
height.
r» (A
• rr
Range.
Mean
height.
Least
height.
o
E
Deg.
DeglDeg.
Deg.
Deg.JDeg.
Deg.
52
Inches.
Inches. Inches. Inches.
Inches.
January.
1
78
26
47
30 27 1 29 79
30 02
0 48
2 00
February.
84
28
52
56
30 27
29 73
29 56
0 54
2 15
March.
94
36
62
58
30 16
29 65
29 93
0 51
1 29
April
92
42
69
48
30 07
29 71
29 94
0 36
3 70
May.
92
48
71
44
30 13
29 59
29 85
0 54
3 77
June.
90
72
81
18
94
65
79
29
30 04|29 63
29 89
0 41
2 85
July.
90
70
82
20
95
68
81
27
30 05 | 29 71
29 92
0 34
2 41
August.
91
72
81
19
94
68
80
26
30 05
29 70
29 92
0 35
2 15
September.
90
64
77
26
94
62
76
32
30 03
29 73
29 89
0 30
4 01
October.
84
62
74
22
84
60
73
24
30 03
29 71
29 75
0 32
3 37
November.
79
38
62
41
80
30
57 | 50
30 13
29 73
29 95
0 40
5 41
December.
74
44
62
30
72
27
53
45
30 38
29 79
30 07
0 59
4 45
Whole year.
91
38
74
53
95
26
66*| 69
30 38
29 59
29 89
0 79
37 56
REMARKS.
1803, June 30th, at 7J P. M. The sun being just set, a beautiful rain-bow was painted in
the heavens forming a compleat semi-circle, excepting a small portion near the horizon which
was imperfect ; the external bow was very distinct : the inner bow, which was very vivid in the
vpper parts, struck the view with an unusual appearance, and, when inspected minutely, two other
bows were distinctly seen, within the principal bow, concentric with it, and in contact with each
other ; (i. e.) where the purple of the first ended, the red of the second commenced, and so of the
second and third ; a dim ruddy appearance was seen within the third bow, which might have
been taken for the rudiments of a fourth. The second bow was only about half the breadth of
its principal, and the vividness of its colours was diminished in the same proportion. The third
was of the same breadth with the second, but its brightness was reduced to half that of the other.
These bows appeared to diminish in brightness, and to present appearances analogous to the
images of a candle reflected from the double surfaces of a plate mirror. A 6 the rain-bow is a re-
flector by which we can find the place of the sun, we must conclude from this phenomenon, that
the horizontal refraction of the atmosphere had produced two images of the sun, above and in
contact with the real sun, in the same order in which the bows were visible in the opposite side
of the hemisphere.
1803, December 23d, at 5Jh. P. M. A very beautiful and very bright halo was seen around
the moon ; the prismatic colours were very distinct— red within, yellowish in the. middle, and
blue without.
Digitized by
Google
L 190 1
On Monday ', February 6th, 1804.
At Northumberland, (Pennsylvania), which had of late years been
the place of his residence — died
The Rev. JOSEPH PRIESTLEY, L. L. D. F. R. S.
He was chosen a member of the American philosophi-
cal SOCIETY, HELD AT PHILADELPHIA, &C." On the 22d
January, 1785.
At a stated meeting, Feb. 17, 1804.
// was resolved unanimously,
That a member of the Society be appointed to deliver
an Eulogium on their late eminent Associate, Joseph Pfiestley?
and that a special meeting of the Society be held on the 24th
inst. at 6 P. M. for the purpose of electing the member who
shall deliver it.
At a special meeting, feb. 24, 1804.
Benjamin Smith Barton, M. D. one of the Vice-Presidents
of the Society, was chosen to deliver the Eulogium, as directed
by the resolve of the 17 th instant.
END OF PART FIRST.
Digitized by
Google
TRANSACTIONS
OF THE
AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, Kc.
VOL« VIf PART II.
No. XXXII.
Appendix to a Memoir on the Mississippi, No. XXX. of the 1st
part of this Volume. — By William Dunbar, of the Natchez,
communicated by the Author, through the President of the
Society.
Read Odober jtb, 1804.
ALTHOUGH the memoir was not intended to convey
opinions upon the theory of rivers, yet as it contains observa-
tions and remarks, which are at variance with the doctrines
delivered tp us by several of the most eminent mathematicians
of Europe, it may seem that a short apology is necessary.
This subject has been treated by mathematicians of the first
order in Italy, France and Germany, but more especially the
former; and generally such partial views only have been ta-
ken of the subject, as have furnished diem with the amuse-
ment of an elegant application of calculus. The theorems of
Guglielmini have been held in the highest estimation, and, per*
haps unfortunately for the progress of science, prevail too ge-
nerally at this day. The theory of spouting fluids issuing from
Digitized by
Google
192 APPENDIX TO A MEMOIR
orifices with velocities in the ratio of the square-roots of the
respective columns, has been applied without modification to
every motion of water. Mariotte, Varignon and Guglielnaini
have made it the basis of complete systems of hydraulicks.
Varignon has composed many analytical memoirs upon this
theory; and Gravesande, Musschenbroek and Belidor deliver no
other principles: Guglielmini has (in addition to this theory)
introduced something not very intelligible on the energy of
deep waters, which he considers as the cause that rivers are not
stagnant at their mouths, where there is, as he supposes, no
declivity of surface.
Theories formed by ingenious men, without any regard to
experiment, have too frequently led their authors into absurdi-
ties, and it is surprising that a theory so contrary to fact in the
most familiar and obvious circumstances, should have met with
so much attention : to defend it must involve its advocates in
an inextricable dilemma: it results from this theory, that at one
foot under the surface of the most sluggish stream, there ex-
ists a current at the rate of 8 feet per second (5 £- miles per hour)
exceeding that at the surface; so extraordinary a case must
have been long since familiar to boatmen, but it is well known
that if a person on board of a boat floating down the stream,
thrust his hand and arm at full length under the surface, he
will find the water (relatively) as still as a mill-pond ; it cannot
be supposed that river-navigators would have so long neglected
to take advantage of so favorable a circumstance; oars and sails
would have ceased to be necessary for descending great rivers;
the velocity (from theory) at the small depth only of about 16
feet below the surface, exceeding that at the surface 32 feet
per second, if we permit a- drag of proper construction to sink
to that depth, connected with a vessel, she would be drawn
along with a velocity, exceeding that at the surface about 22
miles per hour. Again, however minute the velocity may be
at the surface, that at the bottom of a deep river would be im-
mensely great: what shall we think of that of the gulf stream?
or even of the Mississippi, where the depth is supposed to be
50 fathoms, and which would produce 1 40 feet per second, little
short of one hundred miles per hour? now as it is known that
Digitized by
Google
ON THE MISSISSIPPI. 193
a velocity of 3 inches per second wiH just begin to work upon
clay, and that of 3 feet will sweep along shivery angular stones
of the size of an egg, and as according to our theory, the
evil ought to be perpetually upon the encrease, in as much as
the velocity augments with the depth, it must have resulted
that by such incredible velocities as are deducible from the
theory, the bowels of the earth must have been long since torn
up, and this globe have been no longer a fit habitation for man :
a system so pregnant with consequences contradictory to the
order and regularity which are the result of the laws of nature,
must be abandoned. Without the aid of philosophy it must
have been remarked by every common observer, that the most
furious torrent (directed into a new channel) after breaking up
and tearing every thing before it,( does at length fashion its own
bed, in respect to breadth and depth, so as to be perfectly
adapted to the momentum of its waters; it is no longer a furi-
ous torrent, but a mild placid stream. Nature aims continu-
ally at an equilibrium; in rivers which have for a course of
ajges occupied the same channel, the accelerations and resist-
ances are so perfectly counterpoised, that a complete equability
of current takes place for a great extent (i. e.) so far as the re-
gimen of the river has established itself; abrasion at the bot-
tom of the river ceases; this can only be the consequerice of
reduced velocity, contrary to our theory, which demands ve-
locity encreasing with the square-root of the depth. Mathe-
maticians and engineers who have calculated upon so false a
theory have been most egregiousiy disappointed in their ex-
pectations; a canal was projected to supply the city of Edin-V
burg with water, the celebrated M'Laurin calculated the quan-
tity it ought to deliver, and the no less celebrated Desaguliers
who was to conduct the enterprise, and whose theoretick prin-
ciples were somewhat corrected by experimental knowledge,
reduced to nearly one half the calculation of the former; the
work was executed to the satisfaction of both, and the result
was, that the actual quantity of water delivered was ^ of that
calculated by M'Laurin and -J. of that of Desaguliers.
The great improver of the Steam-Engine, Mr. Watt, in-
forms us, that a canal of 13 feet wide at the surface, 7 feet
Digitized by
Google
194 APPENDIX TO A MEMOIR
at bottom and 4 feet deep, runs with a velocity of 17 inches
per second at the surface, 10 at the bottom, and 14 in the mid-
dle; according to the theory, the velocity at bottom ought to
have been 16+17 or 33 inches in place of 10, abating the
effect of friction upon the bottom of the canal.
A very few persons have thrown light on this subject by
some valuable experiments, none have been more successful
than the Chevalier Buat: aided by St. Honore, a young offi*
cer of Engineers, he has adapted analytical forms of expro*
sion conformable to the operations of nature. Buat measured
velocities at the surface and bottom of canals and rivers, and
has discovered the following laws. " In small velocities there
" is great disproportion between the surface and bottom; and
"in very great velocities, the ratio approaches to equality; in
" general the following rule will solve the problem : Take unity
u from the square-root of the superficial velocity per second
" expressed in ioches, the square of the remainder is the veloci-
" ty at bottom/' Thus a velocity of one inch at the surface will
give no sensible velocity at bottom, but a velocity of 36 inches
at the surface, will give 25 inches at bottom; Watt's canal corre-
sponds with this law, and it is probable that the law holds good
in all artificial canals and rivers of moderate depth; but, in
great and deep rivers, whose regimen is established! there is
great reason to believe that the velocities at bottom are much
less than would result from Buat's rule, because as has already
been observed, that so far from abrasion taking effect at the bot-
tom of such rivers, they are actually rising by a slow progress,
which is regulated by the protrusion of the cradle of the river
into the ocean. Many more arguments from fact might be
drawn in opposition to this theory; I shall only observe that it
is known to fishermen, that the migration of fishes is perform-
ed near the bottom of rivers against the stream, and in descend-*
ing they almost float upon the surface; a curious account of
the latter is given by Bartram in his account of St. John's river,
4P East Florida.
We shall now endeavour to shew that the theory is unphilo?
sophical and contrary to hydrostatical laws.
Digitized by
Google
OK THE MISSISSIPPI. 195
Let A B (Plate V, Fig. 1.) represent the longitudinal section
of a river flowing with uniform velocity from surface to bottom,
and let us enquire what change ought to take place in the ve-
locity at different depths, caused by the pressure of the fluid :
Let us suppose a wall C D, forming a complete transverse sec-
tion of the river, and moving uniformly with the current from
A, to B, and that the whole inferior part B, is instantaneously
removed ; if now orifices be made in the wall at 1, and 2, the wa-
ter will flow out in the direction of the stream, with velocities in
the ratio of the square-roots of the columns above the respec-
tive orifices; upon this partial view of the subject, the theorists
have built their system. Again, supposing all things to remain
as before, the portion of the river B, being replaced, let us
now suppose tte superior portion A, to be removed, while the
wall moves on uniformly with the current and portion B, if
now the same orifices 1, and 2, be opened, the water will flow
out with the same velocities as before, but in contrary direc-
tions, against the course of the river; hence it appears that the
simple pressure of the water is equally disposed to produce in-
ferior currents in any direction, the instant the equilibrium is
destroyed ; but it is certainly very unphilosophical to assert that
the column 3, 4, will produce an increased current in the di-
rection of the stream, while it is opposed by a column of equal
pressure 1, 2: it cannot be asserted that any inequality of pres-
sure, arising from the gentle declivity of the surface of large
rivers, can produce any sensible effect ; for should it be said
that the pressing and opposing columns are not to be measur-
ed in contiguity to each other, but that the opposing column
will be null, in consideration that a point is to be found on the
surface of any river, upon the same level with any given depth
higher up the stream; we reply, that this effect is totally de-
stroyed by other concomitant circumstances. Great rivers whose
regimen is long established flow with a very gentle deelivity,
perhaps in some cases not more than 2 inches per mile, but let
it be supposed one foot; according to the theory the velocity of
an inferior current a b, (Fig. 2.) at the depth of 16 feet a c, ought
to be 32 feet per second, because at the point b, 16 miles be-
low c, there is no opposing column: this is certainly the itoost
Digitized by
Google
196 APPENDIX TO A MEMOIR
favourable view in which the theory can be presented, Tnit will
not avail its advocates; for it cannot be shewn that the vis ine*-
tise of 16 miles of fluid can be overcome by a pressure of 16
feet, with the energy required by the theory; on the contra-
ry, it is shewn by the experiments of M. Couplet at Versailles,
that water conveyed in a smooth horizontal tube of 1 8 inches
diameter and 43,200 inches in length, from a reservoir 12 feet
high, issued with a velocity of less than 40 inches per second,
(i. e.) less than f of the velocity deduced from the theory;
hence we see that the vis, inertias of 43,200 inches of horizon-
tal water combined with the friction of a tube 18 French inches
in diameter, destroys -£. of the velocity which the theory calls
for ; and if we should concede (\yhat the theorist cannot de-
mand) that of those x, 4- are occasioned by the friction of so
large a tube, and only £ left for the vis inertia of the water, ami
that it be allowed that every succeeding 43,200 inches destroy
^ of the respective remaining velocities, we shall find that at the
end of the 16 miles, the velocity of the issuing fluid will be less
than .J. inch per second. Were we to suppose a horizontal
pressure at a, derived from a head of water e f, proportioned to the
column f e, it is yet inconceivable that this should produce a
continued velocity in the direction a b; water like all other bo*
dies, when in a state of compression, will escape on the side of
the least resistance, and in place of producing a current in the
direction a b, against the vis inertiae of 16 miles of fluid, will
escape by the shortest passage to the surface, and bubble
up at d, where it will form an elevation and encrease the
superficial velocity. Were we disposed to suppress these ar-
guments, and concede to the theorists the doctrine they have
endeavoured to establish, the consequence would be, equally
ruinous of their system : let u? therefore suppose that a current
is produced from a, to b, with a velocity of 32 feet per second
greater than at c; by a parity of reasoning it will at g be 64
feet greater than at c, and so in continuation gaining at the rate
of 2 feet per second 6very mile ; hence a river running one hun-
dred miles, after it had gained the depth of 16 feet would run
with a superficial velocity of more than 200 feet per second:
had we assumed the depth of one foot only in the place of 16,
Digitized by
Google
04? THE MISSISSIPPI. 197
it will be found from the above mode of reasoning, that the
superficial velocity gained would be at the rate of & feet per
mile: it is unnecessary to advance any thing further against a
theory capable of yielding results so contradictory among them-
selves, and so totally at variance with fact and observations.
From what has been said we may conclude that the natural
movement of fluids depends solely upon the declivity of the
surface; the obstructions arising from friction, adhesion and
vicidity, being greatest at the bottom and sides, the velocity of
the current will consequently be greatest at the surface and in
the middle of the channel where there is no deflecting cause.
Buat observes, we may be assured that the central filament of
water running through an inclined cylindric glass tube flows
with the greatest velocity, it being known that however smooth
and polished-the interior surface of the tube may be, the retard-
ations, from friction are very considerable; if we suppose the
superior half of the cylinder to be removed with its included
water, the relative velocities of the inferior half will continue
the same, and he sees no reason to doubt that all rivers and ca-
nals move upon the same principles. We shall consider this
object in another point of view, leading to the same conclusion.
Let the solid A B, (Fig. 3.) of indefinite length, be divi-
ded into a number of very thin and polished laminae, and
placed upon the inclined plane B C, with such declivity as
that the solid may just begin to move by the power of gravity
down the inclined plane from B, towards D, when the lamina
1, shall have gotten into the position I, the lamina 2, possessing
a greater facility of motion over 1, than this last has over the
inclined plane, will have also made one step over 1, and will
be found in the position II; in like manner, the lamina 3, will
at the same instant move over the lamina 2, and make one step
beyond it and will be found in the position III, and so of all
the other superior laminae which will be found respectively in
the situations represented in the figure. Water being^ composed
of parts possessing extreme mobility, it is not unreasonable to
conclude that its motion along an inclined plane, will be some-
what analagous to that of polished laminae, but as fluids press
laterally as well as perpendicularly, there must be correspond-
Digitized by
Google
198 ON THE MISSISSIPPI*
ing retardations at the sides as well as at the bottoms of rivers and
canals.
The energy of deep rivers which has been insisted upon by
Guglielmini is not entitled to much notice : we must however
admit that water, like solid gravitating bodies descending along
an inclined plane, will acquire velocity until the accelerations
and resistances are in equilibrio, but from its extreme mobility
is more liable to lose it: a globe of solid matter rolling along a
horizontal plane loses its motion instantaneously on its falling to
pieces ; it is not therefore astonishing tBat water, divisible into the
minutest parts, descending into every cavity and deflected by the
smallest obstacles, should be speedily deprived of its velocity. As
a small body impinging with great velocity upon a large mass
may communicate no sensible velocity to the compound, so in
like manner, a descending torrent being received into a more
capacious bed is totally disarmed of its fury and moves on witb
a new velocity proportioned to the new declivity.
Deep rivers moving with a certain velocity and meeting with
obstacles will exert the energy spoken of by Guglielmini, that
is, like all other heavy bodies in motion, they will endeavour
to persevere in the right line of their last motion, and the wa-
ters will accumulate against the object, having a tendency to
rise to the height of a reservoir, which would produce the actual
velocity of the current: thus if M. Pilot's tube A B, (Fig. 4,)
be set with its horizontal orifice B, against the current, the
water will ascend to C, a height proportioned to the velo-
city of the current at B; that is, the column C D, pressing
above an orifice in any reservoir would produce a velocity in
the spouting fluid equal to that of the river at B : this instru-
ment may be commodiously used for ascertaining the velocity
of currents where great accuracy is not required, and in low
velocities; the tube might be graduated so as to give the velo-
city by inspection : it may also be used to determine the dif-
ference of superficial and inferior currents* Were the theory
true which we oppose, a remarkable effect would be seen 4n
Pitot's tube; the water ought to rise in the tube to a height
above the surface of the river, equal to the depth at which it is
plunged below the surface, apd if the tube be rendered station-
Digitized by
Google
OS THE MISSISSIPPI. 199
zfy the water will rise still higher by an additional height cor-
responding to the superficial velocity: thus Pitot's tube placed
at the depth of 16 feet in a river whose superficial velocity is
8 feet per second, would raise the water to the height of 47 feet
above the surface of the river, and orifices being made in the side
of the vertical tube, the water would flow out with various veloci-
ties depending on the position of the respective orifices. What a
discovery this for raising of water without machinery ! ! how-
ever absurd this result may appear, it is fairly deducible from
the theory.
In any great river, water flowing in the direction 1, 2, 3, (Fig.
5.) and impinging against the bank at 3, will there accumulate
and rise higher than at 4 (which is always lower than at 2,) rf
the velocity of the current be 8 feet per second, it will have a
tendency to rise one foot, but from the unconfined state of the
water, a considerable abatement will take place; the water ac-
cumulated at 3, is the cause of all eddies; it falls off in all di-
rections from the thread of the current, producing always an
accelerated current in the direction 3, 5; an eddy will be
formed from 3 to 4 and a portion of the flood passing over to
6, not unfrequently causes a smaller eddy from 6 to 7 ; in
favoring situations the eddy from 3 to 4, appears sometimes to
rival the strength and velocity of the principal stream: dange-
rous whirlpools are frequently produced in the situation w, oc-
casioned by the counter currents; such a one exists at the grand
gulf in the Mississippi, and in many other situations : we have
seen one of about 5 teet diameter and 3 feet deep; all floating
bodies passing within a certain distance of the vortex are at-
tracted by it, and if not too large and buoyant, are precipitat-
ed to the bottom of the river, rising at the distance of 50,
100 or more yards from the place of descent: this imaginary
energy of deep rivers, the result only of the descending fluid
will nevertheless be extinguished as soon as the declivity of the
surface is lost; rivers running a long course through an alluvial
country, without the influx of auxiliary streams, are liable to
stagnate before their junction with the ocean; the Nile is a re-
markable example of this kind : and even the Mississippi, al-
though we have said in general that it rolls a great body of
B
digitized by GoOglC
200 -' APPENDIX TO A MEMOIR
water into the ocean, yet there has been at least one very €x-
traordinary season, when the waters were sunken s5 uncom-
monly low, that there was no sensible current some distance
within the mouth of the river. I have lately procured the
following curious information from an intelligent ^Gentleman
of New Orleans who writes as follows, " In the beginning of
" November 1 800, when there was hardly any perceptible cut*
"rent in the Mississippi, I set off from the upper gate of the
« city, in company with the master of a vessel, and sounded
« the river at every three or four boats length until we landed
« at the opposite shore : the depth of water increased pretty re-
"gularly, viz. 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20 fathoms, the
"greatest depth was found about 120 yards from the shore.
« This operation was accurately performed, and as the river ri-
«ses about 12 feet at this place, the depth at high water will
« be 22 fathoms. A gentleman informed me that his father,
« who was chief pilot in the time of the French, has often said
<< that a little way below the English Turn there was 50 fathoms,
« and about the upper Plaquemine 60 fathoms. A respectable
" inhabitant living six leagues below New Orleans, informed
« me that during the above mentioned low state of the river,
"the water was there found so brackish, that recourse was had
« to the wells for drinking water, and that abundance of por-
" poises, shark, and other sea fish were seen still higher up the
" river. Many people thought the water brackish opposite to
" the town. It had a greenish appearance, and when taken
" up was very clear; and although I did not think it brackish,
" I found it vapid and disagreeable." From the above curi-
ous relation it appears, that the waters of one of the greatest
rivers on the globe were so completely dissipated that all cur-
rent ceased 20 leagues above its mouth, nay the waters of the
ocean flowed in (as into the Mediterranean) in order to restore
the general level of waters. During the same period at
Natchez, 380 miles from the mouth, the river flowed with a
regular though very gentle current, (perhaps^ mile per hour)
and a depth of 10 or 12 fathoms under the principal filament.
What became of this great body of water? evaporation from
• WflHimE. Huting»Et$ fete ViccConful at New Orktn*
Digitized by
Google
i evaporation.
O&THS MISSISSIPPI. $01
the limited surface of the river is insufficient to account for so -
great a dissipation, but we know that the spongy texture of
the alluvial soil; is remarkably pervious to the waters of the
river: from the flat and humid surface of the £>eltaf a perpe-
tual evaporation exists, the lateral pressure of the waters of the
river must supply the waste by exhalation, and this immense
expence of fresh water, is to be accounted for by filtration and
No. XXXIII.
Demonstration of a Geometrical Theorem; by Joseph day Esq.
of Philadelphia. '
Read July aoth, 1804-
TH E following proposition was mentioned to me, some years
since; as one which had been proposed by Mr: Simpson some
time before his death. I do not know that any demonstration
has hitherto been published.
From the angles at the base of any triangle, let two right
lines be drawn cutting each other in any point within the tri-
angle, and cutting the sides of the triangle, the segments of
the sides and of the lines so drawn will form a trapezium;
draw and bisect the diagonals, the right line joining the points
of bisection, will, if produced, bisect the base of the triangle.
In the triangle ABC, (Fig. 6, Pl^te V,) draw CD, BE, cut-
ting each% other in F, and the sides of the triangle E and D.
Draw AF and DE, and bisect them in G and H; draw GH,
which if produced, will bisect the base of the triangle in K,
njaking BK equal to KC.
Through F, draw LFM, NFO, parallel to AB and AC cut-
ting the sides in M and O and the base in L and N : now be-
cause of the similar triangles, as CF is to CD so is FL to BD
and LM to AB. Therefore by alternation as FL is to LM so
is BD to AB. But as FL is to LM so is FN to CM; Therefore
as BD is to AB so is FN to CM and the rectangle under BD,
CM is equal to the rectangle under AB, FN. Again, as BF
Digitized by
Google
202 GEOMETRICAL THEOREM
is to BEso is BO to AB and so is FN to CE; therefore as BO
is to AB, so is FN to CE; and the rectangle under BO, CE is
equal to the rectangle under AB, FN; But the rectangle un-
der BD, CM is also equal to the rectangle under AB, FN, it
is therefore equal to the rectangle under BO, CE. Therefore
as BD is to CE, so is BO to CM. Through H draw HI, HP,
parallel to AB and AC. Then because EH is equal to HD,
and HI is parallel to BD, BE is bisected in I, and HI is one
half of BD. In the same manner CD is bisected in P, and
PH is one half of CE. Bisect BC in- K and draw KP, and
KI which produce to S and T. Then because CK is equal to
KB, and CP is equal to PD, -KP is parallel to BD and equal to
one half of BD, and in the same manner KI is parallel to CE
and equal to one half of CE; and K, P, H, I is a parallelogram.
And CS is equal to AS, and BT to AT. Through G draw VG
parallel to AC, and produce VG to X, cutting CD in X, KS
in W, and HI produced in Z : draw XY parallel to AB. Then
because AG is equal to GF and VG is parallel to AC, and con-
sequently to OF, AVisequaltoVO; Bui AT is equal to BT„
therefore BO which is equal to the difference between twice
AT and twice AV, is equal to twice TV. Because AG is
equal to GF and GX is parallel to AC, FX is equal to CX,
and because XY is parallel to AB and consequently to FM,
CY is one half of CM; but CS is equal to SA. And AM
which is equal to the difference between twice CS and twice CY
is equal to twice SY. Because GA is equal to FG and GX is
parallel to AC, GX is equal to one half of AC, it is therefore
equal to CS. WX is parallel to SY, and SW to XY, there-
fore SWXY is a parallelogram and SY is equal to WX, GW
is therefore equal to CY, and CM is equal to twice GW; and
because KW is parallel to TV and VW to KT, KTVW is a
parallelogram and KW is equal to TV, and BO is equal to twice
KW. But as BD is to CE so is BO to CM, that is as twice KP
is to twice PH so is twice KW to twice GW, so as KP is to PH
so is KW to GW, and therefore as KP is to the difference be-
tween KW and KP, so is WZ which is equal to PH to the dif-
ference between G W and WZ, that is as KP is lo HZ which is
equal to PW so is PH to ZG. Join GH and HK ; now the tri-
Digitized by,
Google
DEMONSTRATE!* 80$
angles GZH, HPK, have equal angles, GZH and HPK, be-
cause GZ is parallel to HP and ZH to KW, and the sides ZH,
ZG, KP, PH which are about the equal angles proportional,
therefore the remaining angles HGZ, GHZ of the triangle
GZH are equal to the remaining angles PHK, PKH of the trian-
gle HPK, each to each which are opposite to the homologous
sides, so the angle HGZ is equal to the angle PHK and the angle
GHZ is equal to the angle PKH. The angle ZHP is equal to
the angle HPK, because ZH is parallel to PK and PH falls
upon them; and the three angles GHZ, ZHP, and PHK tas-
ken together are equal to the three angles HKP, HPK, and
PHK taken together, that is to two right angles. So to the
point H in the right line ZH are drawn two right lines KH
and GH on .opposite sides, making the two angles KHZ and
GHZ taken together equal to two right angles; therefore the two
right lines form one straight line ; But BC is bisected in K by-
construction, and the right line GHK drawn through G and li
bisects BC, Therefore in the triangle ABC, CD and BE being
drawn, cutting each tother in F, and the sides of the triangle
in D and E, and the diagonals AF DE of the trapezium
ADFE being drawn and bisected in G and H, the right line
GH joining the points of bisection being produced bisect the
base. Q. E. D.
No. XXXIV.
An Account and description of a temporary rudder, invented'
by Captain William Mugford, of Salem, (Massachusetts J and
for which the Society awarded to him a Gold Medal, from the
Extra-Alagcllanic fund. -/..
Motto. Nil desperandum — eras iterabimus aquor.
Read November 16th 1804.
THE. Ship Ulysses of Salem (Massachusetts) under the com.
mand of Captain William Mugford, sailed from that port or
the 2d day of January 1 804, bound- to Marseilles. On the
Digitized by
Google
BO* DESCRIPTION OP
5th of that month being in Latitude 41 Longitude 65 from the
meridian of London, she experienced a heavy gale of wind,
and while running 8 and 9 knots, a large sea struck her stem
and carried away the rudder at the waters edge, when the ves-
sel immediately broached to. The main-mast was sprung and
the hull lay exposed to every sea* In this unfortunate situation,
Capt. Mugford was reduced to the necessity of steering the
ship with cables over the quarters for upwards of twenty days,
making however the best of his way towards the western Is-
lands and Madeira. The weather during all this time was ex-
tremely boisterous, and the ship much exposed to the Sea.
It was during this interval that Capt. Mugford planned and
executed his temporary rudder. This rudder is made of a spare
top-mast and other spars well lashed and secured together, and
fastened to a false stern-post by eye-bolts serving as braces, and
crowbars and other substitutes for pintles. The false post is also
firmly secured to the old stern-post by the guys and old rudder
braces which are tennoned into it, tiller ropes are fixed to each
end of an old iron tiller; or for want of it, an iron anchor-
stock, or a piece of scantling, or a spar i& fixed across the rud-
der and supported with rope-braces,- so that the vessel is steered
in the usual manner with the wheel : — and in order to keep
this rudder steady in its place, while fixing it, a cannon or some
other sufficient weight is fastened to the bottom of it.
Capt. Mugford (after observing tliat great difficulty would
be avoided in the construction, if the master of every vessel,
was in possession of the measure of the rudder and the precise
distance of the gudgeons,) informs us that he found it to answer
every purpose which could be expected from a temporary rudder,
that his vessel was found to steer by it with the greatest ease, and
that he sailed with it during fifty days, at the end of which time
he arrived in safety at the port of his destination. '
The drawing of the rudder, the following description of it,
and the remarks subjoined, were furnished to the society by
Capt. William Jones, one of their associates, from the model
of the rudder sent by the Inventor and deposited in the cabinet
of the Society.
Digitized by
Google
mugford's temporary rudder. £05
MUGFORDS TEMPORARY RUDDER.
A, (Plate V. Fig. 7.) Is the main stern-post from which the
original rudder has been torn.
& fafthe febe stmnpost made of a spare top-mast sided so as to
fit the main stern-post, with mortices to receive the braces h h h,
or the fragments thereof which remain upon the post.
C, Is the temporary rudder made of the (residue of the) top-
mast and the sprit sail yard, studding sail booms, or any sptfrs
that can be spared with the least inconvenience — They are cut
to the proper length and partially sided and firmly bolted or
trecnailed together. The sides are then flatted a little with the
adze and boards nailed across and wooldings of rope bind the
whole together as represented in the figure.
DDDD, Represent the spars of which the rudder is con-
-structed.
E, Is a small spar or piece of plank fitted on each side of the
false post to lead the guys clear and prevent their chafing; they *
are also bolted through from side to side and riveUed to secure
the false post from splitting, or if bolts are not to be had lashings
are substituted as represented in the figure.
F F, Are stout flat cleats well nailed or bolted on each side
of the false post under the spars E, and embrace the main post.
Their use is to sustain the false post against a lateral shock*
G, Is a ypke made of an iron' tiller, or other sufficient substi-
tute, firmly fitted through the after part of the rudder near the
surface of the water.
H II H, Are the temporary braces and pintles — They are
formed of eye bolts drawn out of the gun carriages or from the
various parts of the huH, masts, or caps, and driven into the
.false post and rudder alternately so that the eyes just meet each
other; some of those in the post, below those in the rudder, and
others above, in order to confine the rudder from rising — ►The
pintles are made of crowbars, a kedge anchor-stock, or the long
.stout bolts out of the windlass bits.
h h h, Are the old rudder braces , or the fragments thereof re-
attaining on the post.
I, Is the profile of the stem of the ship.
Digitized by
Google
206 DBSCRIPTKW OF
K K, Are guys, the bites of which are well served and lashed
to the after part of the false post, and lead separately (or combined
as represented in the figure) to the fore and after parts of ihe
main chains.
L L, Are knots worked on the guys to preserve them fr#m
chafing against the bottom and quarters.
M, Is a rope the bite of which is lashed to the after part of
the rudder below the yoke, and also to the extremities of the
yoke, and from thence led through blocks attached to the end
of a spar projecting over each quarter to the wheel by which
the ship is steered.
N, Is a slip rope rove through a hole in the heel of the rud-
der and both ends passed up through the rudder case to the head
of the false post and made fast.
O, Is a grommet (travelling on the slip rope) to which a
gun or kedge anchor or any sufficient weight is attached, in or-
der to sink the rudder until it is hung and secured.
P, Is a hauling line attached to the grommet, and by
which the weight is lowered down and hauled up. When the
rudder is secured in its place, the weight is removed, and the
slip rope unrove.
Q, are the rudder pendents to save the rudder in case of acci-
dent.
R, Is the lower deck.
S, Is the quarter deck.
T, Is the quarter rail.
V, The arch board of the Stern.
REMARKS.
The merit of this invention is to be tested by a just comparison
with the best substitute hitherto known, which is undoubtedly
that of Capt, Pakenham's excellent invention, an account and
description of which may be found in the 7th volume of the
Transactions of the London Society for the encouragement of
arts, manufactures and commerce.
The difference consists in Captain Mugford's new and inge-
nious contrivance of a false stem post, to which Jiis rudder is
Digitized" by
Google
MUGFORDfS TEMPORARY HVDDER. 207
secured <by eye bolts serving as braces, and crow-bars or other
substitutes as pintles* on which it works with as much ease and
effect as the original rudder. The false post is 'also firmly se-
cured to the main post by the guys, and the old rudder braces
which are tenoned into it.
Captain Pakenham's rudder depends entirely upon the very
slight hold which the cap has on the- post, and does not appear
to be sufficiently secured to resist a sudden lateral shock; it is
however very simple in its construction, and requires, perhaps,
less labor and fewer materials (particularly of iron) than Capt.
Mugford's, and has the advantage of steering upon deck witb
a common tiller in the usual way.
Capt. Mugibrd's rudder must work with much less friction,
and consequently will require less power, as the axis on which
it moves is only an inch and a half in diameter, whereas that
of Capt. Pakenham's is the diameter of the top-mast; say 10
or 12 inches.
Upon the whole, as the construction of Capt. Mugford's
rudder requires only the skill and materials which are usually
to be found on ship board, and as it appears to be better secur-
ed, and works with more ease than Capt. Pakenham's, it may
(without derogating from the merit of the latter) be justly con-
sidered as a valuable and useful invention.
Capt. Mugford's rudder is susceptible of a very simple and
important improvement, viz. v If the archboard of the stern V
was cut off, and the after part of the rudder case taken down,
the stock of the rudder might be continued to the upper deck,
and steer with the tiller in the usual way. Capt. Mugford's
mode of steering is exceptionable, as the yoke is at the surface
of the water, and the wheel ropes leading from the yoke to
the spar, broad upon the quarter; the angle which the rope
makes with the yoke when the rudder is hard over, is so ob-
tuse as greatly to diminish the effort of the power; and more-
over the rudder is necessarily so broad at the surface of the wa-
ter* as to expose a dangerous resistance to the action of the sea.
It is also to be observed, that few merchant ships under 350
ton's burthen have either wheel or iron tiller. If the rudder
was continued to the deck, the breadth might be diminished
c
Digitized by
Google
208 DESCRIPTION OF &C.
at the surface of the water and enlarged at the heel, which
would increase its effect and render it less liable to injury.
In the drawing, the cleats F F, are added to the side of the
false post, and overlapping the main post, which will give it
great additional security. Some minor alterations are also made,
viz. In the drawing the four guys 1111, (which are separate in the
model) are combined into two K K, leading through a thimble
or clinch ; the reason is, that a more equal tension can be obtain*
ed of two ropes than of four, and that when combined they lead
in a fairer direction under the buttock of the ship.
Indeed the number of guys are superfluous, the lower one
would be amply sufficient, as the upper end of the post can be
made very secure. Captain Pakenham has but 2. single guy
leading from the cap on each side.
The drawing represents a mode of applying ahd removing
the weight to sink the rudder, by which the whole can be re-
moved with more ease when the rudder is secured.
When the rudder is fixed, the only apprehension is, the guys
chafing off. There is however on board every ship a complete
remedy viz. Take two of the topmast back stay chain plates
and one of the bolts, and bolt them to the heel of the false stem
post, one on each side; to these hook the top-blocks and mouse
the hooks well; then reeve the guys through the blocks, and
take both parts to the fore part of the main chains: by this
means the guys may be overhauled through the blocks and ex-
amined at pleasure, keeping them always well taught and veer-
ing away one part as you haul in upon the other. These re-
marks are the more diffuse as the subject is considered impor-
tant, and is still susceptible of great improvement.
Captain Mugford was some days before, he could hang his
rudder, owing to bad weather.
The man will deserve well who shall invent a simple substi-
tute for a rudder that can be made and applied immediately in-
any weather; and it need not be despaired of, it men of inge-
nuity, without waiting for the calamity, would only try expe-
riments while their ships are in a sound state.
Digitized by
Google
( 209 )
No, XXXV.
Facts mid Observations relative to the beaver of tforth-America.
Collected by Mr. John Heckewelder, in answer to Queries pro*
posed - by Professor Barton. — Communicated to the Society by
. Professor Barton.
Read November 16th, 1804,
I. Pemaholend, a famous Beaver-Trapper, an aged and
much respected Delaware-Indian, and a friend of mine, gives
the following account.
The Beavers build their dams for the safety of themselves
and their young; and in order to convey food to their houses.
They are very particular in chusing the ground or situation
upon which they intend to build. They always, in the first
place, carefully examine, whether there be near them a suf-
ficiency of trees and shrubs, especially Aspin, Sassafras, and
Shellbark-Hickery near at hand, so that they need not venture
too far out, to cut them : for the barks of these trees are their
principal foods.
They carefully examine the run or brook; whether it be per-
manent, or does not dry up in the summer season, and whe-
ther there be a sufficient quantity of water to extend or enlarge
the dam, if occasion should require it.
Having surveyed the ground well, and chosen the time when
the waters are neither too high nor too low, they cut down
bushes, and drag and lay them in a line for the foundation,
which, at this time, has the appearance of a brush-fence.
They sometimes make one or more offsets, altering their course
as they think best, both for the security of the dam, and to give
them advantages.
The foundation being finished, they cut down small trees,
from six to twelve, and even fifteen inches, in diameter; and
these they cut up into blocks, of three, four, five, and some-
times six teet in length. These blocks they draw by their teeth,
walking backwards, to the brush foundation, and place, in a
sloping direction, every block, with one end on the brush,
Digitized by
Google
210 SKETCH OF TOJL NATURAL
and the other end-wt^the ground, on the inside of the dam.
In order that the blocks may not be suddenly removed or car-
ried off (by a fresh) before the dam be finished, they bind
them together With brush, as they lay them down, so that the
blocks are, in a manner, interw&ven in the brush.
Satisfied, that the work so fajy is,good* they .cut roots, small
brush (rushes and long grass, if at hand,) and by. means of mud
or clay, fill up, and daub over, all holes or places, through
which the water has a passage : so that when it is finished, it
has the appearance of having been made by. the hands of man.
They chuse a proper depth of water where they build tljeit
houses; both for safety and for an easy conveyance of food*
The houses are built of brush, roots and mud (or clay), well
Covered, and secured against the rain, by being rounded off at
the top. Their apartments are perfectly dry, being above high-
water mark. The inside is daubed very smooth. Their beds
are made of shavings, which they draw from wood, with their
teeth, and resemble the finest shavings that have been carefully
drawn with a drawing knife. One housQ will contain from
eight to nine beavers, young and old together. . They have se-
veral passages into their apartments. There are sometimes as
many as eight houses in one dam ; yet every family is by itself.
They never work at broad-day. In the mornings and even-
ings they do all their work, both in building, repairing! en-
larging the dam, and also in cutting down trees, aqd digging
roots, for provision. They eat no fish, nor m^ke use of any
animal food whatever. The bark of Aspin (and another spe-
cies of Aspin), the bark of the Shellbark-Hickery, the Sassa-
fras entire, and occasionally the bark of the Willow, consti-
tute their principal food, in the winter season. In the spring
and summer, they feed on a certain root, which has an agree-
able smell.
The Beaver is a very cleanly animal, and cannot bear any
thing dirty, or any thing that has a disagreeable smell, about
them. Sassafras-bark, nutmeg* and, Fennd-seed, soaked in
rum, or any other sweet or well-scented article^ jnake the best
bait for catching them*
Digitized by
Google
HISTORY OF THE BfiAVERr 211
- ' in general, they have but two young ones at a litter: but
there are instances of old beaveite having three, and even four,
young ones at a time. , A -single pair or couple undertake the
building of a dam, and when their offspring become too nu-
merous to dwell together in one house, they build for them-
selves. * They drag all by their teeth, and roll none. They
take every advantage of the water they can, ir> conveying ma-
terials, food, &c. They are always on guard.
They suckle their yourig sometimes sitting, and sometimes
Jying down, much in the manner of a cat. They are extreme-
ly forid of their young.
II. Samuel, an aged Indian of the Nanticok tribe, brought
up neart he seashore, in Maryland, and formerly a distinguish-
ed trapper of beavefs, says,
• The beavers build their houses for the sake of breeding, for
theii: preservation, and for obtaining food. Their food is prin-
cipally Aspin-bark, Sassafras, the bark of Willows, and the root
of the Water-Lilly. They eat no fish, nor feed on any flesh what-
ever. They do not like to go for from the water, for their
food ; and, therefore, they dam up grounds* with a number of
Aspin-trees thereon, which may serve them for many years.
They never work in the day-time, but do all their work, in
the evenings and mornings. They work together, and keep
a watch. In a large dam, there ajre sometimes eight or nirie
houses. These houses are very dry, and clean in the inside.
They extend their dams, as they find it necessary. In Mary-
land, there was formerly one dam, which by means of frequent
enlargement, extended nine miles/ They sometimes cut trees
eighteen inches in diameter.
They frequently sit upon their hams, while suckling their
young, which stand before them, holding the pap or tit, with
their hands (fore-legs). They copulate in the fall, and, in ge-
neral, have but two young ones at a time: yet sometimes an
old beaver has three, and even four, at ar time. They are much
attached to their young. Are very cleanly.
The beaver is a very cunning animal, so that it requires art
and ingenuity to deceive and catch them. They possess great
bodily strength; drag all by their teeth, walking backwards.
Digitized by
Google
£12 SKETCH OF THE BEAVER.
.They view their works with great attention, and know how to
apply every piece of wood, brush, or root, in the best manner,
and for the security of the dam. They Wash themselves, after
. their labour is over.
III. Account of the beaver by a French trader (at Detroit),
who has, spent a number of years among the Chippeewas, far to
the North of Detroit* and is said to understand beaver-trapping
as well as any Indian. Recommended by John Aikin, Esq.
as a person of credit. Answers to my queries.
Self-preservation, breeding, wintering, and the greater faci-
lity of obtaining their food, are their principal motives for
building their dams. Here they live secure, and can pass the
winter comfortably, having previously well provided themselves
with the necessary food, such as the barks of trees, roots, &c.
In building their dams, they make use of all kinds of sticks,
logs, and rubbish, some of which are laid crossways, others in
a position nearly upright, but somewhat leaning. For stopping
up holes or breaches, they make use of roots and clay or mud;
and they are always careful to keep their dams in good order,
never delaying a necessary repair.
Their houses are from nine to twelve ieet in diameter. Se-
veral couple live together in one house; and there are from
one to ten houses in one dam. From two to ten beavers have
been seen working together. When at work, they keep a watch,
who will sometimes ascend to the height of ten or twelve feet;
but on the approach of, an enemy, or even on only supposed
danger, instantly descends, when all the labourers retire to their
houses. The female works the same as the male.
They are very fond of their young, which they suckle much
in the manner that the cat doe?; They firequendy lean their
backs against a tree, while suckling their young ones, Io ge-
neral, they have, but two young at a litter; but old beavers are
known to have had three and even four young at one litter,
I know but one kind of beaver.
'Digitized by
Google
( 2" )
No. XXXVI.
Memoir on the Ocadtation of Aldebaran by the moon on the 21rf
of October 1793. By Jose Joaquin de Ferrer.
Read November 1 6th 1804.
■OBSERVATIONS ON THIS OCCULTATION.
Apparent Time.
htm
In the Capital of Porto-Rico by Don Cosmede Churruca, CImmersion. 12 30 3$ 76
Captain of a Ship in the Royal Navy 1 Emersion. 12 57 55 80
In the Observatory of Ferrol by Don Manuel Hcrrera, Lieu- C Im. . . 18 03 40 0
tenant in the Navy. . . iEm» • • 19 09 59 0
InFiguembyMr.Mechain. '. 5gj ; ; X£>%% \
In the Observatory of Gotha fe. ! ^ ^20 7
In Pari, at the Naval Observatory fe ; ; J* g fQ °
In Berlin Im. . . 19 46 17 O
In Marseilles Im. . . 19 10 04 5
In Dantakk Im. . . 90 14 32 a
h
From these observations results the longitude of 7 K5E5L' J 00 ol 2
Porto-Rico west of Pari, according to JS2S«. 4 g » 6
According to the statement of Mr, Lalande in the Connois-
sance des Temps for the year 8, Triesnecker has, contrary to
the opinion of this astronomer, diminished the horizontal
parallax of the moon given, in the third Edition of his Astro-
nomy, 6"; but this variation cannot produce so great a differ-
ence. As the position of Porto-Rico is very interesting to
geogfaphers, I have proposed to calculate all the observations,
to examine the elements, and point out the dependence to be
placed on these result?. .
J had formerly calculated these observations, supposing the
proportion between the pdlar and equatorial diameters of the
earth to be as 229 : 230 conformably to the theory of Newton,
and the horizontal parallax in Paris = 57' 44" 8. Since that
period this proportion has been ascertained to be as 333 : 334.
The constant parallax of the equator 5 7' 1", from which the
parallax at Paris =» 57' 36" 8. for the moment of the con-
Digitized by
Google
214 OCCULTAT10N OF ALDEBARAH
junction. — It follows then from die fifBt elements that die Ion-,
gitude of Porto-Rico West of Pfcris-4* 33' 26" 6, and the
difference of latitudes in conjunction 22* 58". — It is to be re-
marked that calculating from the different elements, there re-
sulted an increase in the difference of meridians between Porto-
Rico and Paris viz:
ft # w
From the difference between 1-230 and 1-334 for the figure of the earth. 4. 08 3
From the differences of parallaxes between ST W 6, and ST 36" & + 17 1
Longitude «f Porto-Rico by the first elements 4 33 26 6
Longitude of Potto-Rico West of Paris corrected. 4 33 52 0
These results inclined nie, at the moment, to believe that
the longitude determined by Triepnecker was nearer the truth
than any of the others, I immediately began a careful inves-
tigation, making use of the best elements astronomy has as
yet afforded. * •
In consideration of the great influence of the parallax and
oblate figure of the earth, upon the longitude of Porto-Rico,
we may infer 'the great importance of repeating this kind of
observations, for if we can once with accuracy determine the
difference of meridians, we -can then determine the proportion
of the earth's axes, with more certainty than by the Geodesiad
method; or supposing this proportion known, the lunar pa-
rallax could then be determined,
f *
The horizontal equatorial parallax agreeably to Mayer. n 57 11 4
" * * 57 05 0
These results are on the supposition of the difference ? « ~*"*^ S n 1 a
oftheaxesoftheearthbeingl^OO. J™*^ %<*»
The parallax which I have adopted is that of Burg, who
deduced it from observations of a great number of solar eclip-
ses and occultations of stars.
The inflection of the moon I have deduced from the same
observations. It will not be amiss to dbserve, that comparing
the conjunctions deduced from immersions and emersions, or
immersions with immersions, they give tho difference of me-
ridians, so that the doubt which may exist as to the quantity of
inflection, cannot be such as to affect the result To determine
the difference of latitudes at the conjunction, I have made use
of the observations at Gotha and Porto-Rico.
Digitized by
Google
BY THE HOOK filS
* . ' t •
It is to be remarked that at Porto-Rico the apparent center of the? linker. 13 56 38
moon pasted to the North of Aldebaran supposing 2" of inflection. 5 Emer. 15 49 18
AtGothatothoSmithofAliIehatan j£~ J° ** |*
Piference of Latitnde at conjunction CPorto-Rko.w 2? 55"9 ? «*>«**
with 2" inflection. IGotha 22 58 7 J - 23 57 3
Supposing 1" of inflection fjSSf1* I £ ? J » " 5
. It appears therefore that the center of the moon having pass-
ed at such a distance from Aldebaran and in different quarters,
the errors proceeding from the semidiameter of the moon, or
quantities of inflections, have contrary signs, thatjs if we sup-
pose 1" more in the inflection, we diminish the difference of
latitudes at conjunction by the observations in Porto-Rico 1" 1
and augment it by those of Gotha l" 6, consequently we de-
termine at the same time both elements, which is reduced to
the following question : To find the horizontal semidiameter of
the moon at the moment of the conjunction ; by applying the
corrections of the horary variations and the corresponding in-
crease of altitude, there results the same difference of latitude
at conjunction, by the observations at both places. By apply-
ing the calculation we find the inflection of the horizontal se-
midiameter of the moon** V Q, and the difference of latitudes
22' 57" O. At Figueras and Ferrol the apparent centers of the
In its Immersion. Emersion.
Moon and Aldebaran pass Ferrol. 2' 1" 0 3' 47"
Figueras. 2 28 O 2 47
These observations after having determined the difference of
latitudes at conjunction, are the njost proper to determine the
quaptity of inflection.
By Applying the calculation to the observations of Ferrol*
there results ihp jnfleptipn of the semidiameter of the moon.
°" 9
Applied tp tfre observations pf Figueras. ... 05
To thosq p{ Porto-Rico and Gotha. . . . 10
Mean inflection. ..08
According to Lalande, the inflection increases the semidia-
meter pf the moon 2"; Mr. Du Sejour, ^fter havipg calculated
the observations of Mr Short on the Solar eclipse of 1st April
Digitized by
Google
210 'OCCVLTATION OP ALDKAARAN
1764, says that an inflection of l" 8 and a diminution of the se-
midiaraeter of the moon of l" 5 agreed with some of the observa-
tions, but he could come to no final conclusion upon this point
To determine the quantity of the inflection it is necessary to
know precisely the following data, viz. the precise diameter of
the moon, the beginning and end of the occultation, the true
difference of latitude, the parallaxes in longitude and latitude,
and the horary motions of the two bodies,
Let us suppose the diameter observed to be less than that cal-
culated by the tables 0" 8, as in the present case, and that in
other respects the elements that have been made use of are cor-
rect, we cannot on that account suppose it to be the effect of
the irradiation, it being certain that the doubt respecting the
lunar diameter, measured by different astronomers, is much
greater than the above difference.
The diameter of the sun has been frequendy the object of
the attention of astronomers, and although it is much more ea-
sily determined than that of the moon, there is notwithstand-
ing, a great difference in the variQus determinations,
\ t m
The Apogee diameter of the Sun by, Picard. in 1670—31 38 0
Mouton. — 31 31 0
Louville. 1724 31 33 0
Gentfl, Leraonnier and La Caille 1750 31 34 5
Bradley. 31 30 5
Lalande. 1764 31 31 0
Maskelyne. 31 29 0
Short. —3138 0
If we confine ourselves even to the determination of Lalande,
Maskelyne, Bradley, and Short we find a difference from
2" to 3" and there is reason to believe that the uncertainty of
the diameter of the moon is much greater, consequendy we
may well doubt whether the diminution of 1" or 2" resulting
from the observations of the moon by eclipses of the sun and
occultations, is the effect of the irradiation or of an error in
the diameter represented in tables.
Remark on the elements of the tables.
I have calculated the place of Aldebaran taking the right
ascension from the catalogue of Maskelyne and the declination
Digitized by
Google
BY THE MOON. ft 17
of Piazzi; and the place of the moon from the theory of La-
place. The horizontal parallax of the moon, from the1 state-
ments of the tables of Lalande, in the third edition of his
astronomy, I have diminished 3" lf conformably to the deter-
mination of Burg as mentioned above.
I have also taken care to calculate the horary motions cor-
responding to the intervals between the immersions and emer-
sions, and between the true conjunction and the moments of
the immersions and emersions, the variation of the parallax,
semidiameter, equation of time and all the other elements,
which are subject to variation.
Elements qf the
Occultation of Aldebaran by the moan.
October 21st, 1793.
h f 9
Conjunction in Paris by the tables, Meantime. . . 17 51 02 3
Apparent time. * : 18 06 29 3
Apparent obliquity of the ecliptic • 23° 27 48 0
Apparent longitude of Aldebaran. . . . . . 66 54 33 4
Southern latitude of Aldebaran 5 28 49 0
Southern latitude of the moon. • . . T . . 5 05 58 27
Horary motion of the longitude of the moon. . 1 . . . 33 50 15
Horary diminution, of the horary motion in longitude. . 2 66
Horary motion of the moon in north latitude. ..... 779
Horary increase of horary motion in latitude. .... 1 77
Proportion of the axes of the earth, as 333 : 334 ' "
Horizontal parallax of the moon at Paris. . . . 57 36 80
Polar horizontal parallax. 57 32 30
Horary variation of the parallax decreasing. ...... 230
Horizontal semidiameter of the moon 15 45 0
Horary diminution of the semidianvter of the moon. .... 0 63
Latitude of Aldebaran.— Latitude of the moon. 22 50 73
Right ascension of the sun. ........ 207 13 54 0
Horary motion of the right ascension of the sun 2 23 0
Equation of time. . . . . . . —15 27 0
Horary augmentation of the equation of tune. ••'••• 0 34
Horary motion of the moon between the immersion and emersion at Paris. 33 46 7
Do. between the immersion and the true conjunction. . . • 33 49 1
Do. between the true conjunction and the emersion. . 33 47 9
Paris. 1 immersion and emersion. 9 9
Horary motion in latitude between > immersion and true conjunction. 8 4
J true conjunction and emersion. 9 3
Horary motion at Porto-Rico between the immersion and emersion. . 33 52 2
immersion and true conjunction. 33 51 5
true-conjunction and emersion. 33 50 S
Porto-Rico. 1 immersion and emersion. tf 4
Horary motion an latitude between f immersion and true conjunction. 6 9
j true conjunction and emersion. 7 3
Digitized by
Google
21S
OCCULTATION OF ALDEBARAN
Application of the calculation of the obstrvatien at Gttha.
Latitude— Vertical «ogle«40* 4ST 41" 49. Logarithm of the
. .. Radius at the Pile
Immersion.
o r •
H— Altitude of the nonageaime 56 34 06
N —Distance of the C from the nonages. 58 23 10
N+Parallax in longitude 59 04 34
L Latitude of the moon by the tables 5 560 8
Horizontal poiarparallax 5T 30 34
0,9992171
ft998697§
I&merakMu
e t *
54 0140
€5 06 30
65 49 10
50544 9
57 28 70
Sine horizontal polar parallax. 8£234038 . . . . 8,9339030
iS&±s«£>^{ • • °'0005W3 • • • • *««•
Co-arithmetical cosine latitude of the moon. 0,0017909 . ♦ • . 0^0017900
Sine altitude of the nonagesime. , 9,9214490 # 9,9061105
Sine (N + parallax in longitude) . . 9,9334117 • 9,9601182
P-Sine parallax in long. —41' 22" 79 .* 8,0805047 Sine P.-^T 39" 22 8,0936710
Cosine latitude of the moon. 9,9982791 .... 9,9982800
Co-ar:siueN 0,0697644 , . . . 0,0423423
Constant logarithm. . . K . 8,1485482 .... 8,1342933
Cotangent H 93196570 .... 9,8608182
Cosine latitude apparent of the moon 5° 39*50" 9,9978740 5« 41 17 9,9978563
Sine Q-3T 4ST 71 7,9660792 Sine 0-33* 49" 55 7,9929678
Constant logarithm 8,1485482 • 8,1342933
Cosine (N-fi P.) .... 9,7152204 . . . . 9,6183552
Cosine apparent latitude of the moon. . 9,9978740 .... 9,9978563
JTangent the true latitude of the moon. . 8,9505967 .... 8,9504777
Sine C>-2/ 13" 86 6,8122393 Sine<& V 43" 61. 6,7009825
Parallax in latitude— Q+Ql— 34 01 ST. Parallax, in latitude— 1^+ Q>35 33 16
Parallax in longitude 41 ^2 79. Parallax in longitude 42 39 22
Difference of apparent latitudes in the interval. . 1 25 O
Difference of apparent longitudes. do. . • .* 21 21 0
Y— mean apparent latitude of the moon + latitude of AMebaran? «» 5° 34 40
— * ! T ! 5
Apparent inclination of the orbit 3° 48* 51 arc or chord 1277" 76
CI 15' 48" 38
Apparent semidiameter— 2" inflection— jj^ 15 45 33
!I 46° 17' 18*'
E. 38 31 26
We have the distances of the apparent conjunction. $£" 9^^
Difference of apparent latitudes. jj" 13 qq 35
True conjunction in apparent time ■■ ', 18»» 40* 06" 1
Laritudeof theSbythe talfcattheimm. — 5° r 50" 80 at the cm. -» 5° 5' 44" 20
Parallaxes in latitude. • . +34 1 57 > +35 33 16
fa) Apparent latitude of the 3 by the tabks 5 39 52 37 5 41 17 36
inference of latitudes observed. —10 55 35 —12 28 35
Lat.. of the} in the region of the star. 5285702 5285701
Latitude of Aldebaran. 5 28 49 00 5 28 49 00
Error of the tables — 0 00 08 02 -r0 00 08 01
Digitized by
Google
I ,
Digitized by
Google
>
Vol. VI. to face page 119
Obserurope: October %lst , 1793.
PORTO-SICO.
BERLIN.
MARSEILLES. DAVTSICX.
Apparent times observe
Long, from Paris (nati /* JJ 9
Apparent times in ParalT* ~ a4
Immersion*
k / *
12 30 33 7
Equation of time,
'1704 s* 7
Latfeofe — -Vertical* to *f Jf ^
Logarithm of the earth' ^ ^i*
The sun's right ascensio „ ^^£°° 0
Moon'slon^tudebyth«i3 48 46 2
Moon's Uritude. 66 19 32 0
Moon's polar horizontal 5 06 05 47
Moon's horizontal semk & 34 6
Altitude of nonagesime. 15 45 66
Moon's true distance hi 85 47 41
Parallax in longitude. 27 40 49
Parallax in latitude. 27 15 41
Apparent semidiameter* 8 52 32
Conjunction, apparent tl 15 58 56
True diff. of lat. at conil3 32 41 8
Conjunct, by the immersi 22 57
Allowing 22T 57" differ
of latitude at conjunction 13*> 32'
13 32
Emersion, y launeraion.
b i if
12 57-S8 8
17 31 47 8
15 26 83
13 48 50 2
66 34 58 8
506 254
57 33 6
15 45 35
87 49 52
21 44 48
2147 60
7 02 44
15 59 66
13 32 41 8
41" 3
37 7
19 46 If
— 4409 0
19 02 08
15 27 28
52 21 32
9,9991825
13 49 04 5
67 25 59 0
5 05 50 15
57 30 13
15 44 41
54 20 20
59 55 35
40 54 73
35 41 62
15 48 82
18*50 42
18 50 39
Immersion.
h ,, *
19 10 04 5
— 12 08 0
IS 57 56 5
15 27 2*
43 07 33
9.9993900
13 49 04 0
67 23 33 7
5 05 58 87
57 30 53
15 44 48
65 06 50
57 08 05
44 25 60
26 49 62
15 50 50
18*18 41
18 18 39
Immersion.
k f 0
20 14 33
—1 05 15
19 09 17 0
15 27 29
54 11 18 6
9.9991427
13 49 05 6
67 29 53 5
5 05 49 24
57 29 9
15 44 28
50 54 20
63 42 35
40 26 33
38 03 93
15 47 59
19*1147
19 1141
r^e -e-jgxsa- *-—* *&? i;^&^s
By the immersion of Gotha.
do. Pa"8-
do. Figueras.
3 do. Berlin.
do. Marseilles,
do. Dantzick.
" Mean conjunction in apparent time
7d>semtioiisofGc^andPorto.ilko. - 22* 57" 0
h ' »
18 06 30
18 06 31
18 06 35
18 06 33
18 06 33
18 06 32
0
3
5
5
2
0
• ' *
18 06 27
18 06 29
18 06 33
18 06 30
18 06 31
18 06 26
6
5
4
4
1
5 - 18 06 32
5
18 06 29
7
Digitized by
Google
BT THE MOON.
219
. Difference of latitudes at the coajonction. • • • Zt 50" 73
Error of tables. . 4* 8 01 >
Difference of latitudes at conjunction 22 58 74
Supposing the inflection «- 1" the difference of latitudes at the conjunction would
have been 2T 57" 1.
Supposing 22* 57* for difference of latitude at the conjunction, we have an error
in the tables in latitude — • ... . . — 6" 27
Apparent latitude by the tables, (a p. 218) . . 5 $9 52 37
Apparent latitude corrected. 5 39 46 10
Aldebaran. . . , 5 28 49 00
Difference of apparent latitude at the immersion. 10 57 10
With 22* ST" difference of latitude at conjunction there results 10' 57" 10 for
difference of apparent latitude at the immersion, .and supposing
2" of inflection we have true conjunction. 18H 40* 03" 1
V of inflection do. do .... 18 40 05 5
Note. The altitudes and longitudes of the nonagesime have
been calculated with the latitude diminished by the vertical an-
gle corresponding to 3S3 : 334, for the proportion of the axest
I have omitted the forms which I made use of,, and have only
given the calculation of the parallaxes to shew the method I
have used, which is the same with that of Cagnoli.— See his
treatise of trigonometry, printed in Paris, page 411 — 427.
Determination of the difference of latitudes at the conjunction.
It will appear by the annexed table of the ocGuJtation, as ob-
served in the capital of Porto-Rico and different places in Eu-
rope, that the mean difference of latitudes at conjunction,
(supposing 1" of inflection) is SJ27 58" OO.
The emersion at Paris was observed rather late, as appears by
a comparison of the observations, and consequently cannot be
much confided in ; the observations at JFigueras and Ferrol are
not the most proper in order to determine the latitudes at con-
junction, because the center of the moon passed near to the
star, we shall therefore confine ourselves to those of Gotha and
Porto-Rico, which give 22' 57" O without risk of an error of 1".
If we dip-unish the horizQqtal polar parallax, of the ( by 4"
according to the theory of Laplace, thQre would have resulted
a difference of latitudes at conjunction by the observations at
Porto-Rico ^nd Gotha-?* 56".,/.
£
Digitized by
Google
8£0 OCCULTA*!**** O* ALUfeBARAN
Determination tf the longitude of Porto-Rico west qf Park.
Conjunctions at Paris resulting from three suppositions.
1. By the immersions and emersion* at Paris, Qotha and
Figueras* reduced to the national observatory.
2. Supposing 22' 57" difference of latitude at the conjunction,
and making use of the immersions with I" of inflection.
3. Making use of the same difference of latitude at the Con-
junction with 2" inflection*
Conjunction at Paris by observations.
, v h ' m ,h i • h i 0
At Gotha. 18 06 30 6 18 06 30 0 18 06 27 6
Paris. 18 06 36 9 18 06 31 3 18 06 29 0
Figuents. 18 06 35 5 IS 06 35 5 18 06 33 3
Berlin 18 06 33 5 18 06 30 4
Marseilles 18 06 33 2 18 06 31 4
Dantzick 18 06 32 6 18 06 26 1
Conjunction on three hypotheses. 1806343 18 06 33 5 1806297
Same at Porto-Rif o 13 32 41 8 13 32 41 3 13 32 37 7
1ssi,KS2r"j" 433525 433513 *33«°
>■■ Mill ■ H ■!■ ■■
h 9 9
Mfcan longitude of Porto-Rico 4 33 519
Supposing 22/ 57" difference of latitudes at conjunction and 1" of inflection we have
the longitude of Paris by the immerftiom.
Conjunction at the national observatory, arjparenf time* 1
bjr the mean of the observations at Paris, Gotha, Figu- J « 18* 06' 33" 5
eras, Beilin, Mamiles and Danutek. J
ft 9 »
Gotha east of Paris S3 33 0
Figueras 2 32 5
Fcrrol west 42 11 0
Berlineast. 44 10 0
Marseilles. 12087
Dahtsick ; • 1 05 14 5
Forto-Rioo wttt . » * . , . # 433519
If we suppose the proportion of the difference of the earth
axes 1-300, it diminishes the difference of meridians between
Porto-Rito and Paris « — #'65
1" diminution of the parallax, . • • . . + 21*
1" more in the horary motion of longitude. + 3 70
Digitized by
Google
8T "EHB MOOW«
SSf
If We suppose the polat hwfeontal parallax diminished^?",
conformably to Laplace's theory, it would increase the longi-
tude tff IWrta-Rico by 8" $ of time : m $m ckse the longitoSe
of Porto-Rico would be («** 33' 51" 2+8" 5) = 4> 33' 50" 7
According to Triesnecker. / . . . . 433586
The variations in the elements, have no sensible influence
on the difference of meridians between the observations in
Europe. — So that we may consider the above results to have
as much accuracy as the observations can possibly be suscep-
tible of,
No. XXXVII. '
The geograpftical position of sundry places in North America and
in the West Indies, calculated from astronomical observations: By
Jose Joaquin de Ferrer.
Read at sundry times, 1805.
OCCULT ATI ON OF JUPITER BY THE MOON.
January t$tk, 1799.
Observations.
At New-Orleans
by Mr. Andrew EUieott.
At the royal observatory of ^ "
! Immersion df the center of. Jupiter.
Emersion of the center.
Apparent time.
a / 9
545465
. 7 06 20 0
• 13 29 43 8
the Island of Leon by Don > Immersion of the 1st limb. . .
Julian Oftiz Ctnelas. 3
Eiementaby the table* -at 13* 0C 00" mean time or 12h 4& 50" 1 apparent time at Paris.
13 50 13 5
Moon's
*Ldngitude reckoned from the apparent equinox.
Latitude. S.
Equatorial horizontal parallax.
Horizontal diameter— 3" inflection.
Horary motion in longitude;
Horary motion in latitude northerly.
tHoraqr segmentation of parallax.
46 26 38
34 26 7
55 04 0
30 00 0
30 277
2 41 1
14
Jupiter's
Geocentric longitude.
\ Geocentric latitude.
[Horary motion in longitude direct.
lorizontal parallax.
bSemidiameter.
Proportion of the equatorial and polar diameters of the earth 334 : 331
46 24 46
57 16
240
' 1 87
20 33
Digitized by
Google
222
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS,
Apparent time of the observations,
Longitude west from Paris,
Apparent time at Paris,
Latitude— Vertical angle,
Parallax in longitude,
Parallax in latitude,
Apparent inclination of the orbit for New-Oiieani,
Conjunction at New-Orleans, apparent time,
Difference of latitudes at the conjunction,
Idem by the tables,
. Correction of the tables,
New-Orleans. , Island of Leon
Im. of center. |Em. of center.) Im. 2d limb.
Paris.
Im. of center.
a / #■"
545 465
6 10 16
11 56 02 5
29 48 34
11 18 6
18 02 5
a t >
706 20
6 10 16
13 16 36
3 543
12 267
a t *
13 29 438
34 080
H 03 31 8
36 18 00
51 34 0
18 410
a * m
13 50 12 5
00 00 0
13 50 12 5
48 40 01
46 01 0
29 424
19° 45' 0LV
6b 37 53 1
22 11 4
22 43 9
— 32 5.
Conjunction at Paris, by the observation on the Island of Leon apparent time, 12 47 42 2
Do. by the observation of Mr. Mechain, 12 47 35 8
Mean
At New-Orleans,
Longitude of New-Orleans West from Paris.
12 47 39 0
6 37 53 0
6 09 46 0
Talde of the results qf longitude by the lunar distance observed with
a circular reflector.
/ i
Capital of
Porto-Rico.
*
'
Apparent
Apparent distances of C from
Long.W.
tune. .
0 and stars. .
from Paris.
1796
* ' *
o ' . *
a / »
January 30
20 20 41
and 0 nearest limb.
93 29 52
4 32 53
31
20 48 15
82 32 12
433 00
February 2
23 22 02
59 50 10
4 S3 15
3
20 53 21
49 39 36
4 33 Id
4
"0 20 36
48 42 36
4 33 47
12
22 48 28
,
58 38 42
433 06
23 3 29-
- •
58 46 18
4 33 14
14
344 06
73 38 15
4 33 47
15
4 38 0
87 09 18
434 32
16.
0.57 34
98 54 02
4 33.42
March 2
21.17 31
21 27 31
70 14 20
70 11 40
4 32 44
^32 39
a
21.11 11
21 20 14
59 6 42
59 440
4 33 U
432 35
4.
22 58 18
47 14 18
433 22
U.
22.48 48
40 56 54
433 02
13
22 59 39
23 08 02
67 36 45
67 41 22
433 32
4 33 09
u
23 41 33
23 51 1*
•g
' ' I
81 11 45
81 17 42
434 08
4 34 17
Correction of the Epochs,.
Longitude of Porto-Rico West from Paris)
Mean.
rsrgnr
.p 35 0
4 $3 56
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DC Hlin, .
Tible 6/ the itmttt of longitude continued.
BS3
New Veracruz.
'
Apparent
' ( x
Apparent diifrnce* of Z. front
lime.
Q xntftan
1792
* i *
/
o / w
Scptembr. 31 ■
6 10 2
($aftd€ *et»ef* lin&t.
46 55 45
0 38 48
. . . ,
67 5 45
38
10 56 24
» aqwWfcCn«arenlimb
ST 56 45
11 05 44,
• . • •
57 59 15
October 3
1140 12
a gaud C4)fca*e*t limb.
19 50 58
11 54 28
• • • •
19 45 56
3
12 00 25
• • • •
654 07
12 XT 56
• ♦ * •
647 $4
528 00
4
11 42 26
0 tf and C remote limb.
11 54 53
» ' » • 4
533 10
P
23 657
23 40 57
@ and £ nearest limbf .
61 13 00
61 1 45
U
22 17 09
38 38 00
12
0 31 19
....
37 57 16
0 43 14
• • • ■ •
37 53 22
19
3 15 12
...»
50 48 39
3 46 02
• t • •
50 48 04
November 4
21 11 14
• • • •
104 5 45
21 23 54
• . • •
104 1 8
5
21 44-02
• • • •
93 026
21 53 23
. • • •
92 56 54
18
3 13 41
• • ^ • •
59 48 40
3 24 23
• •
59 53 10
21
246 22
«.
99 16 37
2 55 51
• . •
99 20 45
December If.
3 50 5S
• • • • |
54 52 45
CorrecdoiLof theXpocn*,
Longitude of Veracruz weat from Pari*,
Long. W.
from Pari*.
632 54
632 0
632 47
6 32 47
633 38
633 43
8 33 51
633 40
633 44
633 ST
6 33 47
633 32
632 44
6 33 51
630 35
633 09
6 33 05
6 32 46
6 32 57
6 32 08
6 32 42
8*33 07
6 32 57
6 32 45
6 32 40
633 4
633 48
The preceding Table contains observations of distances of the
moon from the sun and stars in Vera Cruz and Porto-RiGO,
and the number of observations being equal on the east and
west of the moon, the errors of them must be very nearly des-
troyed. .
The longitudes are deduced by a comparison with the nau-
tical almanac; and to the mean of the results 1 have added the
corrections which are found in the tables, arising from the fol-
lowing considerations.
The tables of Mason which have been used for the calcula-
tions of the moon in the nautical almanac, suppose the epoch
of the mean longitude of the moon in 175a 6* 08° 22' 21"
The secular motion. 10 07 53 3£
Digitized by
Google
224 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS,
From a comparison with the new taUes, the following cor-
rections arise.
Correction of epochs in 1750 — 13" 0
Idem of the secular equation. =54 96
Coefficient of Mr. Laplace —15" sin (C't apog. 4. 3 long. Q— 3 0't apog.)
To determine the error of the solar tables, I have calculated
various observations of the Rev. Nevii Maskelyne cprrespond-
ing to the epochs of observations in the said tables.
I have further applied the equation XVII I of the lunar ta-
bles, of which no use is made in the calculations of the nauti-
cal almanac. The result of all the corrections, I have reduc-
ed to time, to apply it to the mean x>( the results of longitude
as I have mentioned above.
Difference of longitude between Paris and Veracruz.
Veracruz, apparent time. h .' " . i
1795, Aug. 8. Emer. I Sat. of If. 8 53 4S 2% .
14 II. . 8 57 29 8 /difference of longitude*, ?* ' "
Oct 9 I. 8 03 00 8\>by the comparison of the J.6 33 32 0
10 U. . 5 58 55 5 ( observations in Europe. \
25 I. 6 26 32 1)
By 26 series of C's distances (page 223) 6 33 48 0
By the occultation of o Sagittarius by the C( page 160, Vol. VI, part I.) 6 33 42 8
Longitude of Veracruz west from Paris. 6 33 40 9
Veracruz and Havanna.
a 9 9
Aug. 8. 1795 Em. I Sat of 1/ observed at Havanna by Don Cosine Chorroca. 9 48 50 7
Observed by me at Veracruz. . , . 8 53 45 2
Difference of longitudes , 055055
Difference of longitudes by the cronometer. . . 55 02 5
"Veracruz west from Havanna. ' ' Mean, 0 55 04 0
. ;; ; Capital qf Poit&-Rico and Paris.
% 9 »
. By .20 series of C's distances (page 222) . . . 4 33 56
By.4atriesof Cs ^stances compared with the observations of the ? 4 33 42
Rev Nevil Maskelyne at Greenwich, on Jan. and Feb. 1796. J
Bj the occultation of a « by the C. Oct. 21, 1793. (page 320) 4 33 52
Yoito-TUco west from Paris. Mean. 4 33 50
Digitized by
Google
BY J, J. DE . FERRWt.
t
Havanna and Paris.
JaanwySC. 1800. , Emer. of I Sat. of If observed at HaraniuL
Vhrier.
225
Mean time*
Vtvier east from Paris.
636 30
12 34 20
5 47 50
9 24
Havanna west from Paris. ... h * »
Veracruz west from Paris. . . 6 33 40 9
Havanna east from Veracruz. 55 04 0
Havanna west from Paris. . • .
Porto-Rico west from Paris. . . 4 33 50
.Havanna west from Porto-Rico ) 1 4 44
by the Cronometer. J ■ ■
Havanna west from Paris
5 38 26
538 369
5 38 34
Natchez and Paris.
Mean.
New-Orleans west from Paris bj the occnltation of Jupiter by theX (p. 222)
Natchez west from New-Orleans by the Cronometer
Natchez west from Paris • •
5 38 32.3
k t *
6 09 46
5 16
6 15 02
Occnltation of the I Satellite of* Jupiter by tlie moon, observed at
New-Orleans by Mr. Andrew Ellicott, and at tlie Royal Obser*
vatory of the island of Leon by Don Julian Ortiz de Canelas,
- on the 15th of January, 1799.
I have sent to the American Philosophical Society the re-
sult of this occultation, which was observed the same day in
the island of Leon and at New-Orleans. This determination
besides being very exact, has appeared to me to merit atten-
tion, was it for no other reason than that it appears to be the
first time that the longitude has been deduced from such an
observation; at least I have not had any knowledge of its
having been done before,
New-Orleans. . Island of Leon.
Apparent time. •
Longitude west of Paris.
Apparent time at Paris.
Distance of the C from the nonagesime.
Altitndes of the nonagesime.
Horiz. parallax, of the C corresponding to?
the lat.— horiz. parallax of the 1 Sat. $
Parallax in longitude.
Parallax in latitude.
Apparent semidiameter of the C— inflection.
Distance of the I Satellite from Jupiter.
Immersion.
Kmcrslon*
h ' "
h ' "
5 41 40
7 02 34
6 9 56
6 4 56
11 51 36
13 12 30
13°07 53
3*20 12
71 23 50
77 26 30
54 58 1
55 00
12 00 4
3 10 4
18 203
12 40 5
15 13 4
15 14 0
7« 09° 5'
7.20° 32*
Immersion.
h * "
13 25 35
34 8
13 59 43
83°26 57
70 24 10
55 00 0
31 33 4
16 30 8
15 01 0
Digitized by
Google
flttt GEOatAFHICAL FOIITIONS,
k I »
$f im.T.—Con}uiiction in New-Orleam 6 34 54 X
Difference of the latitudes at the conjunction. . . 22 01. 3
By timetables. . 22 36 0
Sum of the errors. 34 8 • »
Difference of apparent latitudes at the moment of immersion in the island of Leon. —7 24 8
Errors of the tables according to the observations at New-Orlean*. — 34 8
Difference of the apparent latitudes at the immersion. 6 SO 0
a ' 9
Conjunction in the Island of J-eon. 12 10 39
Idem. New-Orlean*. 6 34 54 W. of Paris. Greenwich.
__ h ' , " h ' ~
Difference of Meridians. 6 35 45 609531*033
Result by the occultation of If 5 $5 48 6 09 56 | 6 0 36
Note, The horizontal parallax of the moon in this calcula-
tion, as also in the calculation of Jupiter, supposes the con-
stant equatorial 57' 01" O.
Ratio, of the equatorial and polar diameters of the earth
as 334: 333.
The parallax of I Sat.-horiz. parallax of Jupiter** 1" 9
Horary motion of the moan at New-Orleans+ horary geo-
centric motion of I Sat of Jupiten=SO' 37" 6.
At the Island of Leon 30' 37" 7 — horary motion of the
Satellite during the observations, which was retrogade.
* inclination of the orbit of I Satellite. 3° 18* 38"
Position of the node idem. 10* I* 30
Passage of Mercury over the disk of tite Sun* Mqy Uh> 1799*
Calculated by. Jose Joaquin de Ferrer.
The principal object of this memoir, is to determine the longi-
tude of Miller's Place on the river Coenecuch (Am. Phil. Trans.
Vol. V. p, 197.) by the Egress of Mercury observed by Mr. Anr
drew Ellicott, Commissioner on the part of the -United States to fix
the line which should divide them from the Possessions of Spain.
The position of this point is interesting to Geography and
Navigation, from its vicinity to Pensacola and the head of the
river Perdido. According to the map of Mr. Lafon, which
has this point laid down, Pensacola is 28" of time east of Mil-
ler's Place, and the river Perdido. 46" of time west of Miller's
Place. I have calculated fifteen observations of ingressand thir-
Digitized
*y( Google
BY J, J. DE FERRER, 227
teen of egress observed in Europe, and comparing each of
these observations with the mean determination for Paris, it
appears that the greatest error in longitude has twice been at
8" of time. The errors of the mean of the observations of
the time of the ingress and egress, seems to be within 3", as
may be seen in the table. Mr. Ellicott's observation appears
worthy of the utmost confidence and he says that the exte-
rior contact is within the limits of half a second. By the
European observations it will be seen, that the time employed
by the diameter of Mercury in the egress « 3' 02", 1 and ac-
cording to Mr. Ellicott's observations =» 3' 05", 5 which proves
that both contacts were well observed: taking the mean, the un-
certainty appears to be 1" 7 and, all circumstances considered,
the error of longitude can scarcely equal 6" of time.
From the new tables of Mr. Lalande.
k 9 m ■
Conjunction in the ecliptic. . • . . . . 1 04 36
0S tnie longitude from the mean equinox. . . 46 54 17 3
g 't Helioncentric latitude. S. 5 47 470
0's aberration t .-—19" 80.; nutation «— 12" 6
g 'a aberration iri longitude, s-f. 6 85 ; aberration in latitude — — - 3 28
0's horary motion. -*~ 144 926
0 and g relative geocentric horary motion in the interval 1 ^35 926
bet\veen the ingress and egress. 3
g 's horary motion in latitude. 43 607
0 and g ' s relative horary motion between the ingress and ? 935 855
the time of the conjunction. ... J
between the. egress and the conjunction. . 235 984
g 's horizontal paraIJax—0 's horizontal patallax at the time of the ingress 7 089
do. do. egress 7 109
Equation of time at the ingress. . . —3 43 0
do. egress. , • . ... . —3 44 2
{diameter of the sun. . . . . ' . .15 518
Observations made in Europe, May 1th, 179&. Meantime
Limb. Ingress of g Egress of g
k / 9 htm § w ft
' Mr.de Lan.bre.Pari* \ £ Jl 20 09 t tflO^tl 3 °° 2 3 °°'9
{1 4 38 20 0^
2 21 19 427 ' 4 « W o| • • • • 2 59 0
Mr.Mes.ier. Pane. J J g g £ J \ % ^ {j| 3 10 0 3 08 0
IalandofLeon-J \ ^^^ ' * « » 3
Marseilles.
1 4 50 26
2 21 32 11
• G
Digitized by
Google
22<
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITi6NS>
Mirepoix.
Berlin.
Naples.
Bremen.
Hamburg.
Dresden.
Messersdoff.
Gotha.
LUienthal.
Madrid.
Dantzick.
Breslaw.
Limb. Ingress of g
b / m
1 21
2 21
r 22
2 22
1 22
2 22
31
21
X
2
1
o
1
2
1
2 22
15 24
18 10
00 28
03 46
04 03 6
07 17 6
42 34 3
45 40 0
21
22
22
50 02
02 12
05 12
21
21
21
2 21
2 20
1 .
1
2
12 37
50 11 ..
53 14 2
42 52 7
45 46 6
56 00 0
22 15 15
Egress of Q
k / ir
4 36 151
4 39 05]
5 22 171
5 25 sej
5 25 201
S 28 41 j
5 03 57}
5 08S9
5 23 377
5 26 34C
5 31 161
5 34 24^
5 43 18
5 36 SI}
5 39 52 <
t m
t w
2 46
250
3 18
3 13
3 14
3 21
2057
300
308
2 539
-Mean. 3 03 7
Mean of the best observations 3' 02" 2
Time of the passage of the \ diameter of g 1 31 1
257
308
3 01 0
3 040
By the mean result of three observations for the meridian of Paris,
the Ingress reduced to the center of the earth was.
the Egress.
Duration..
Semidiameter of the ©==950" ©±=10° 28' 18"
b ' "
21 17 41
4 41 18
723 37
lsAppt. latitude of g for the center of the earth at the Ingress—
J',. ditto ditto Egress.—
.EsElongation at the Ingress.
£'=■ ditto Egress.
©^Inclination of the orbit at the Ingress.
©'— ditto . . Egress.
h= Horary relative motion at the Ingress.
h'» ditto . .' Egress.
3600 / 5600
»•- oqg qiq a'i
173 44byobserv
495 84 ditto.
934 034 ditto.
— 810 226 ditto.
-40 27 55
—10 28 40
— 235 818
— 236026
235 818
P=»Parallax in longitude.
m ^Coefficient of the Parallax in longitude at the Ingress.
236 026
Q— ditto latitude.
&-
n'—
ditto.
ttitto.
ditto.
E
E-J.1.
tang. ©
latitude
longitude
latitude
-ya-15,8072
Ingress.
Egress.
Egress.
E— U tang. ©
E'
E'+l'tang.©'
-X "*- 2,9354
.X*'»^7041 .
J*a'- 8,3865
E'— I' tang.©'
Ingress for the center of the earth— apparent Ingress— 15,8072 P— 2,9354 Q^
Egress ditto. . ■Apparent Egress —13,7041 P-f 3,3865 <£
Digitized by
Google
»y j. j. pr fb**?*.
22$
I'
W«
r
!
ft
. o
r;
ft 9^
«l
&2
-5 -
&» o
-37
M
ST
or
B-g.
2 v ft
ers:
3
4
1 1
3 3
1 '
2 s
S I
E: o
I
^N4NIH
fW^W|*«HpWpMpfHpHpH^MpHllJH
8.1- I
> *>i to *> 2£ "m to © £ c
i&*m
:8
isssasg
++++++++++++++++++++++++++
1*.
n
o
t
Bgjtli
" S»5 5=3.
• <s.s
II
t-l
h666h6m6h6m6h6h6h m ►* © h* ** h* © *
CO GO*»'0> OiOW^UlClMW<OK»NP°OHMO»WOi •**.«* Cn O
2
o
H
W
5-
tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO tO
ss
w
S3
«
tototototototocatototototototo
NMNNNN'SNNNNNNNN "*
8 8S3S288S8PSS2S •
++| 1
<A tO 03 tO 03 C* «* tO *> tfr> M09
Cocncr>oo*.ooo&tO*^iS^to£
Mf»MUiKNOiMHOH(»NlliUie *
PI
Digitized by
Google
230 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS,
Egress of Mercury by Mr. Andrew Ellicott, at Millers Place,
Coenecuch River.
Latitude. . 304933
Corrected latitude supposing the ratio of the polar 7 <ir\ ai\ *)*.
and equatorial diameters of the earth cs333 : 334 J
interior contact 6th of May, 1799. Mean time. ^41 iy i
Exterior contact. Certain to \ second 22 44 24 5 ]
Meanasto the egress of the center of g 22 42 51 7
Longitude from Paris by an approximated calculation. . . 5 58 30
Mean time in Paris May 7th. 4 41 21 7
(a) Magnifying power 200
h t 9
Equation of tirae*»— & 44" 2. Q's right ascensions* 2 58 19
Horizontal parallax of {f — horizontal parallax of the 0= 7 117
P&=s Parallax in longitude. . . . • +1316
<^=a Parallax in latitude, . . . . + 2 268
h'»* * h ' *
Egress reduced to the center of the earth=22 42 51 7— 13, 7041 P-f 8, 3865 Q==22 42 52 f
Egress ditto. . observed in Paris. 4 41 27 0
■ i1 ■
Longitude of Miller's Place west from Paris. . . . . 5 58 34 3
Pensacola 28" time east from Miller's Place.
Rio Perdido 46 do. west from Miller's Place,
h * » W h t W Or*
Pensacola west from Paris=»(5 58 34 3— 28)— 5 58 06 latitude 30 24 00
Source of Rio Perdido. =(5 58 34 3+46)«5 59 20 . . 30 42 00
Miller's Place. . . . . 5 58 34 3 . . 30 49 33
h ' " o ' "
Pensacola west from Greenwich. . . 5 48 46 um 87 11 30
Rio Perdido 55000—873000
Miller's Place ' . 5 49 14 3 = 87 18 30
Determination of the tabular error in latitude, by observa-
tions of distances of limbs, observed at the observatory of the
Island of Leon with a heliometre and reduced to the diameter
of the sun 3 1' 43" 6. The observations published in the nau-
tical almanac of the Island of Leon are made before and after
the apparent conjunctions, — It is to be observed, that the distance
stated lh 38' lo involves without doubt an error of the press,
of 20", which is easily noticed by a comparison with the other
distances. To compare the observations with the Tables, I
have calculated the following table of the parallaxes of lon-
gitude and latitude.
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DE FERRER. * 231
Appt. time hi the
Island of Leon. Pit. in Long. Par. in Lit.
li * " " . "
23 00 00 4-9 02 +3 29
23 00 00 +0 74 +2 75
00 00 00 — 0 66 -f 2 27
1 00 00 —2 11 +1 90
2 OCX 00 —3 49 +167
3 00 00 —4 70 +1 58
4 00 00 —5 67 +1 66
Mean of three series of of observations ; apparent time 23 44 09 2 07 25
Eqn. of time«~3' 44^ diff. of mer. 34' 08" mean time in Paris. 00 14 33 2 03 41
Distance of the centers of 0 &Q by the snean of three observs. 6 25 00 0 8 44 3
Parallax in longitude . . • . • «~0 27 — 3 62
ParaHax in latitude +2 40+166
Latitudes by the tables . • • . • 5 07 82 6 51 56
Difference of apparent longitudes. - . 566 80
Idem. latitudes . . 9 • . 103 40
Inclination of the apparent orbit— 10° 20* 19"
Chord 576 155
Angle of conjunction at 23«» 44' 09" - 52° 05' 48"
Apparent conjunction for the center of the earth in mean time.
fc 0 9
In the Island of Leon . 0 40 38
In the Ecliptic . . . .0 33 52
Corresponds at Paris to . 1 08 00
Correction of the tables in latitude .•«— 6 4
These observations are more proper 1o determine the latitude
than the conjunction, on account of being very near the ap-
parent conjunction.
Four series of observations (the most to be depended upon) made in
the Island of Leon, give the following mean results.
b 0 9 m ' 9
Conjunction in the Ecliptic. «{ j| 34 16 r Metn- 0 34 03
Longitude 0 34 08
Conjunction in the ecliptic for Paris by the observation of distances. 1 06 10
- _ 6" 4
Error of the tables in latitude —1 ~~ Z ? 1 Mean— 6" 3
— 8" 4 ")
Z£ $ i Mean— <
— 6 0 }
Mr. Messier found the nearest distance of the centers
and the diameter of the 0
The distances of the limbs should have been observed ... 10 11
$9 $9 9 9
Distance of the limbs — 31 *L* * 10 ll _, 10 08 31
3250*
f Diameter of the 0 . * 15 51 80
Apparent octane* of the limbs . - 5 43 45
H
Digitized by
Google
232 GEOGRAPHICAL POSITIONS.
At Berlin the observed nearest distance, corrected from thai
of refraction and parallax, was • • 5» 40* 38
(Mem. of the R. Academy of Berlin.)
By the above data we find the following error of the ta-
bles in latitude.
By the observation of Mr. Messier . • . — 5" 77
Mem. at Berlin; . . , —5 ?T
Idem, in the Island of Leon. . . -6 30
Mean error* —• *5 8
Determination of the diameters of the Sun and Mercury, conjunc-
tion in the Ecliptic and error qf the tables in longitude.
a * *
Ingress at Paris for the center of the earth, from the J 9117 37
mean of the observatiotts most to be depended upon | * * ** u **
Egress* 4 41 37
Duration. 7 93 JO
Difference of apparent efangaffon* •- vnSf9 IS
Apparent latitude of Mercury by the tables at the ingress 179 31
Correction in latitude • . . ^ 5 80
Apparent latkndcdf 5 173 51
• 9 9
Inclination ef the orWt • . . . . „ m 88 II
Chord ........ 1774 643
Hence nearest distance of the centers , •_ 5 40 44
Angle of conjunction at the ingress. ... . mm 79 38 £2
$ Diameter of the sun resulting from above ♦ 15 50 34
Lo^tto fimnce of the g «j the time > wloe
Apogee— distance of the 0 3
Apogee diameter of the 0, resulting therefrom . • ■» 31' 38* 0
Time employed by the diameter of Mercury in the ingress and egress. «■ 3 01 1
Logarithmic distance of Mercury at the conjunction. «■ 9,74550
Hence the diam. of g reduced to the mean distance of the earth from the QwJBT 3988
Apparent elongation at the ingress mm 934 416
Aberration of the ©— aberration of Q * » 36 663
Elongation m the ecttptk 907 775
Conjunction in the ecliptic ; mean time of Paris . . wmV* 08* 33"
Geocentric latitude of Mercury, corrected from aberration •■ 5 44 55
Correction of the tables to the longitude of Mercury? , ic 50
supposing the longitude of the 0 to be exact. J * * "■+ ** **
Longitude of the 0 from the mean equinox at the conjunction. ■* 1 16 54 36 7 «■
Heliocentric longitude of Mercury • • • 7 16 54 36 7
Digitized by
Google
( 233 )
No. XXXVIII.
Continuation of the Astronomical Observations made at Lancaster,
in Pennsylvania, by Mr. Andrew EUicott.
Read October 1 8th, iSoj.
C^ JVto.wThe eclipses of Jupiter'* Satellites were all obserred with an achromatic
telescope magnifying about 100 times.
1804. March I lth. Immersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter
observed at 12* 9' 11" mean time, night clear.
May ISth. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed
at 8* 30' 20" mean time, night clear.
20th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed at
10* 25' 14" mean time, night clear; but from the proximity
of the moon to the planet, it is probable that the emersion was
observed 9 or 10 seconds too late.
22d. Emersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter observed at
9* 45' 50" mean tinre, night clear.
June 5th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed
at 8* 43' 1", mean time, a little hazy.
2&th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed at
8* 5& 5" meantime, a little hazy.
July 4th. Emersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter observed
at 9* 37' 56" mean time, a little hazy.
1805, January 14/A. Observations on a lunar eclipse.
J's limb began to be obscured at 13* 45' 42"^
Indented at 13 48 0 v Mean time.
Totally eclipsed at ... . 14 44 43 J
The end of the feclipse, and of tbtal darkness, could not
be observed on account of a snow storm.
April 30th. Immersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observ-
ed at 10^ 54' 23" mean time, night clear.
June 1st. Emersion -of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed
at 9h 37' 19" mean time, night clear.
2d. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter observed at 9h
19* 3" mean time, night clear.
26th. Observations on the beginning of a solar eclipse.
The afternoon was remarkably clear and serene, but the sun
being low, his limb was very tremulous, though not so much so
Digitized by
Google
234 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS,
as. to occasion an error of more than 5 or 6 seconds. — My eye
was directed to the precise spot where the eclipse began, which
was observed at 6k 45' 48" mean time, or 6* 43' 2(T appa-
rent time.
The beginning of this eclipse was observed by Mr. Pattersonr
in Philadelphia, at 6h 47' 40t" apparent time.
The longitude of Lancaster by the above eclipse appears to
be 5k 4' 19" west from Greenwich, which is 47" less than I
have stated it from the result of a considerable number of the
eclipses of Jupiter's satellites, and some lunar distances. — The
longitude of the city of Philadelphia, by the same eclipse as
observed by Mr. Patterson, appears to be 4h 59' 33" west from
Greenwich; which is about 1' 4" less than it has been settled
by a great number of corresponding observations- made there,
and at the royal observatory of Greenwich. * This difference,
no doubt principally arises from the imperfection of the lunar
theory, and probably much the greater part of it from the er*
rors in the moon's latitude.
July 4th. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter observed
at 8h 55'* 4" mean time, night clear.
10th. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed at
8h 9' 0" mean time, twilight very strong.
1 Uh. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter observed at
llh 29' 3 8", mean time, night clear.
nth. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed at
10h 4' 16" mean time, night clear.
/26th. Emersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter observed at
8h 22' 39" mean time, twilight very strong.
August l2d. Emersion of the 1st satellite of Jupiter observed
at 8* 23' 9" mean time, twilight very strong.
2d. Immersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter observed at
10h 5' 5" mean time, night clear.
9th. Emersion of the 1st salellite of Jupiter observed at
10u 18' 20" mean time, a little hazy.
September 6th. Emersion of the 2d satellite of Jupiter ob-
served at 8h 18' 9" mean time, very clear, but the planet tre-
mulous.
* The penoo who ooted the time > had iomcdoubti whether this fhould not be 54'*
Digitized by
Google
MADE BY MR. ELLICOTT. 295
Ttk. Emersion of the 3d satellite of Jupiter observed at
8h 23' 15" mean time, very clear.
By Mr. Delambre's tables, the longitude of Lancaster as
deduced from each of the foregoing observations on the eclip-
ses of Jupiter's satellites will stand as follows.
Longitude West
1804.
1805.
from Greenwich.
k # •
March 11th.
Immersion of the 2d satellite
5 3 58
May
13th.
Emersion of the
1st
ditto.
5 5 36
20th.
ditto.
1st
ditto.
5 5 15
22d
ditto.
3d
ditto.
5 5 9
June
5th.
ditto.
1st
. ditto.
5 5 20
28th.
ditto.
1st
ditto.
5 S 11
July
4th.
ditto.
3d
ditto.
5 5 0
April
30th.
Immersion of the 1st
ditto.
5 5 32
June
1st
Emersion of the
1st
ditto.
5 5 43
2d.
ditto.
2d
ditto.
5 4 51
July
4th.
ditto.
2d
ditto.
5 4 36
10th.
ditto.
1st
ditto.
5 5 55
11th.
ditto.
2d
ditto.
5 5 11
17th.
. ditto.
1st
ditto.
5 5 45
26th.
ditto.
3d
ditto.
5 4 34
Aug.
2d.
ditto.
1st
ditto.
5 5 53
do.
Immersion of the 3d
ditto.
5 2 54
9th.
Emersion of the
1st
ditto.
5 5 50
Sep.
6th.
ditto.
2d
ditto.
5 5 22
7th.
ditto*
3d
ditto.
5 4 42
No. XXXIX.
A Description of a Cave on Crooked creek, vnth Remarks and Ob*
servations on Nitre and Gun-Powder, by Samuel Brown, M. D.
of Lexington, Kentucky.
Read February 7th, 1806.
THERE are few works on Natural History or Chemistry
which do not contain some facts or opinions concerning the
formation and properties of nitre. To recapitulate these facts,
Digitized by
Google
23£ DESCRIPTION OF A NJTRB CAVE.
or to state the various theories to which they have given rise,
would be a task very different from that which I have underta-
ken; which is merely to communicate a short account of some
-of the most remarkable caverns and rocks from which that
salt is obtained in Kentucky; and to offer some conjectures rer
iative to the causes of the imperfection of the gun-powder ma-
nufactured in the United States.
The quality of the nitre procured from the earth in calcare-
ous caverns, is universally believed to be different from that
which i? found in the sand rocks. I have not been able to as-
certain, with any degree of precision, the quantity annually
manufactured in this State, nor the number of caverns which
are known to contain it. I have however visited several of the
most remarkable of them and from the best information I could
procure I have formed the following estimate.
The great cave on Crooked creek, * of Nitre,
a branch of Rock castle, supposed to contain - - 10OOOOO
Scott's cave, t#b miles distant from the great cave 200000
Davis's cave, six miles distant from the great cave 50000
Two other caves, within a mile of the great cave 20000
A cave on Rough creek, a branch of Green river 10000
Resides these, which I have had an opportunity of examin-
ing, I have heard of many others in various parts of the State;
some of which are esteemed very rich in nitre, and are said to
be of great extent.
The great cave on Crooked creek in Madison county, is situat-
ed about 60 miles south east of Lexington. It has two mouths
which are 64(5 yards distant from each other, and about 150
yards from a large creek, which winds round the hill through
which the cave affords a commodious passage for horses and
waggons. The general level of the floor of the cave is 80 feet
above the creek. The average height of the arch is ten feet,
though in many places it rises to fifty or sixty. The breadth
of the passage is generally about forty feet, in some parts it is
seventy or eighty feet. The floor has the appearance of a large
public road, which has been much frequented. The ceiling
is in most places smooth, with but few incrustations or stalac-
tites. In some of the chambers however there are appearances
Digitized by
Google
I
DESCRIPTION OF A NITRE CAVE. 23*7
ef Gothic rudeness arid irregularity which are truly sublime*
When these vast chambers are sufficiently illuminated by the
torches and lamps of the workmen, they present scenes so un-
common and so romantic, that the most stupid beholder can-
not contemplate them without expressions of the greatest asto-
nishment During the winter season the effect of these scenes
is greatly increased by a stream of water which issuing from a
small opening in the arch of the cave, about twenty feet above
the floor and falling into a bason, occasions a noise which in
these calm regions can be heard atgreat distance, and echoing \ ol^
from arch to arch, fills the mind with the idea of some migh-
ty cataract*.
The temperature of this cave, during the last winter (the
coldest we have had for several years) was generally 52° of F*
sometimes the mercury rose as high as 57° but never sunk to
the freezing point, when the thermometer was placed at any
considerable distance within the cave. In one chamber how-
ever, the heat was frequendy so great as to be disagreeable.
About sixty paces from the south entrance, a passage leading
from the main avenue conducts you to this chamber, which
is nearly circular and about twenty feet in diameter. -The arch
over this part of the main avenue and that over the passage
leading to the warm chamber, are equally elevated. But the
ceiling of the chamber is twenty or thirty feet higher. As you
approach the chamber, the floor gradually rises until it ascends
above the level of the arch of the passage. As soon as you
ascend above that level, you perceive the air uncommonly
Warm, even when the temperature of the passage is near the
freezing point. The air which fills the main avenue in sum-
mer and autumn is forced into this chamber, whenever the ex-
ternal atmospheric air becomes so much condensed by cold as
• This cave was discovered about seven Tears ago by a Mr. Baker. He entered it bv the north
mouth, but proceeded only a small distance into it, on the succeeding day he brought his wife and
two or three of their children to explore it, he carried a torch and his wile a supply of pine. After
they had advanced within hearing of this torrent 400 or 500 yards from the north mouth, the only
one then known, he dropped his torch and it was completely extinguished. During two days and two
nights this miserable family wandered in total darkness, without provisions and without water,
though sometimes within hearing of a cataract which they durst not approach, at length Mrs. Baker
m attempting to support herself on a rock, perceived that it was wet, she conjectured that this was
caused by the mud which they had brought in on their feet, Baker immediately ascended the rock,
ajtdsawtaeligMof 4ay>
Digitized by
Google
238 DESCRIPTION OF A NITRE CAVE.
to rush into the mouth of the cave; and whenever during the
winter, any portion of air in the main avenue, where the pas-
sage leads off, is accidentally heated by fires, or by carrying
torches or lamps through the cave, as this heated air cannot
escape by the mouth of the cave (for the arch descends to-
wards the mouth) it ascends into this chamber, and rises to the
ceiling, where it must remain until the external air and that
in the passage and avenue acquire a higher temperature than
the air in the chamber. This chamber then is constructed pre-
cisely upon the principles of the Russian vapour bath, so mi-
nutely described by count Rumford.
During the winter season, the walls and floor of this cave re-
main perfectly dry; but in summer, innumerable drops of
water collect upon the rocks and trickle down upon the floor
which sometimes becomes as moist as a bed of mortar. This
is particularly the case during very hot weather when the at-
mosphere is loaded with vapours. I collected a quantity of
the liquid condensed upon the rocks, and found that it possess-
ed the same properties with the liquor obtained by lixiviating
the earth on the floor of the cave. It would appear from this
fact, that the nitric acid is formed in the cave and is conden-
sed upon the rocks, the lime of which it dissolves. But in
what manner this nitric acid is formed, I confess myself whol-
ly ignorant, as there are no substances in a state of putrefaction
within the cave which could yield the requisite supply of ni-
trogene gas. It is to be remarked, that the whole of the wa-
ter condensed upon the rocks, does not taste of the nitrate of
lime. A great part of it is quite insipid, although dropping
upon earth which is rich in nitre, and many parts of the cavern
have been found so completely filled with clay, that it is not
easy to conjecture how it was possible for atmospheric air to
reach them, and this clay too, is strongly impregnated with
nitrate of lime. The depth of the earth on the floor of this
cave has never yet been ascertained. In some places the work-
men have dug down fifteen feet and the earth even at that
depth still contains nitre. It is commonly supposed that through-
out the cave, every bushel of earth contains at least one pound
of nitre. In many places it will yield more than two pounds
Digitized by
Google
DESCRIPTION OF A NITRE CAVB. f)9
to the bushel. Formerly the earth was taken out of the cave
and lixiviated near the stream, at present hoppers are erected
in the cave, and the earth after lhuviation, is left to be impreg-
nated again with nitrate of lime; but what length of time will
be requisite to saturate it, has not yet been ascertained.
The workmen have different modes of forming an opinion
with regard to the quantity of nitre with which the earth may
be impregnated. They generally trust to their taste; but it is
always considered as a proof of the presence of nitre, when
the impression made on the dust by the hand or foot, is in a
very short time effaced. Where the. nitre is very abundant the
impression made to-day, will be scarcely visible to-morrow.
Where tliere is a great deal of sand mixed with the dust, it is
commonly, believed that & small quantity of pot-ash will suf-
fice for die saturation of the acid.
The method of making saltpetre usually practised in Ken*
tucky, is as follows.
The earth is dug and carried to hoppe» of a very ample
construction, which contain about fifty bushels, cold water is
poured on k from time to time, and in a day or two a solution
of the salts runs into troughs placed beneath the hoppers. The
lixiviation is continued as long as any strength remains in the
earth. The liquor is then put into iron kettles, and heated to
ebullition ; it is afterwards thrown upon a hopper containing
wood ashes, through which it is suffered to filtrate. As the
alkaline part of the ashes is discharged before the nitrate passe*
through, the first runnings of this hopper are thrown back;
and after some time, the clear solution of nitrate of pot-ash
runs out, mixed with a white curd, which settles at the bottom
of the trough. This clear liquor is boiled to the point of crys-
tallization, then settled for a short time and put into troughs to
crystallize, where it remains twenty-four hours, the crystals
are then taken out, and the mother-water thrown upon the ash*
hopper, with the -next running of the nitrate of lime. When
the quantity of the nitrate of lime is too great for the portion
' of ashes employed, the workmen say their saltpetre is in the
44 grease?' and that they do not obtain a due quantity of nitre.
If there has been too great a proportion of ashes employed,
r
^
Digitized by
Google
Z4$ • DESCRIPTION OF A NITRJB CAVE.
they say it is in the/4 ley," and when it is left to settle previous
to crystallization, a large quantity of salt will be deposited in
the settling troughs, which they call " cubic salts," These
salts are again thrown upon the ash-hoppers and are supposed
to assist in precipitating the lime from the nitrate of lime, and
in the opinion of the workmen, are changed into pure saltpe-
tre. They consider this salt .as nitre killed, as they express it,
by the excessive, strength of the ley. To make 100 pounds of
good saltpetre at the great cave, eighteen bushels of oak ashes
are necessary; ten of elm, or two of ashes made by burning
the dry wood in hollow trees. In the discovery of the value
of this latter kind of ashes, the philosophers and chemists of
Europe have been anticipated by the saltpetre-makers of Ken-
tucky.* The earth in some caves does not require half this
quantity of ashes to precipitate the impure salts.
When wood ashes cannot be readily obtained near the
caves, the liquor which runs from the earth in the hoppers is
boiled down to the point of crystallization, and suffered to be-
come solid by cooling. In this form, which is called " thick
stuffl" it is transported to a part of the country, where ashfcs
can be procured, dissolved in ley sufficiently strong to precipi-
tate the lime, settled in troughs and then boiled down and crystal-
lized. This thick stuff is extremely liable to deliquesce in warm
moist weather, and is therefore commonly melted down and
put into casks before it is carried from the caves. Horned cat-
tle are very fond of it, and a small portion of it is almost in-
stantly fatal to them. Those who have had frequent opportu-
nities of seeing cattle perish in this way, remark that the blood
when drawn from their veins, is of a very black colour, and
flows with great difficulty. A substance possessing such active
properties, might deserve the attention of experimental physi-
cians, and may possibly merit a share of that praise which iias
been so liberally and perhaps so injudiciously bestowed upon
the nitrate of pot-ash.
After these observations on the calcareous nitre beds in Ken-
tucky, and the modes commonly employed for obtaining that
salt, I shall mention some of the most remarkable circurastan-
• See Vol, X. p. 33a Philosophical Magttfae.
Digitized by
Google
Description 6f a nitrs cave; 241
ces which have come to my knowledge, relative to the rock
ore or sand rocks which yield nitre supposed to possess pecu-
liar qualities.
These sand rodks are generally situated at the head of a ra-
vine or narrow valley, lead up a steep hill or mountain : as-
cending the streamlets which run through these valleys, the
banks close in upon you and become perpendicular. The rocks
are frequently from sixty to one hundred feet in height, and
jutting over their bases, which rest on a calcareous stratum, often
form a shelter large enough to secure a thousand men from the
inclemencies of the weather. During the winter season a small
rill is precipitated from the top of these rocks, and in summer
water generally issues from between the silicious and calcareous
strata. These sand rocks which probably once formed a com-
plete upper stratum, have been for ages exposed to the destruc-
tive operations 'of rains and frosts, and as they crumble off are
carried by torrents into the plains and rivers beneath. The
summits of all the hills in the vicinity of Rock castle, Licking
and Sandy are still covered by masses of these rocks, which
from their beauty and variety of figure, might at a small dis-
tance be mistaken for the ruins of Gothic cathedrals or Baronial
castles. Vast blocks of them have rolled down into4he valleys,
at a period of time so remote, that they are now covered by
trees of a luxuriant growth. These rocks when broken per-
pendicularly, present a surface consisting of strata so irregular,
with regard to their position, and so different in colour and in
the size of the particles of sand, that it is impossible to doubt of
their Neptunian origin. The minute inspection of them never
fails of awakening iijTthe mind the recollection of the shore of
some vast lake, where the rage of 'the winds and the waves has
piled up hills of sand, which time consolidates into rock.
Several years ago the saltpetre-makers discovered that the sand
and rubbish sheltered from rains by these rocks contained a rich
impregnation of nitre, and that only a small portion of ashes
was necessary for its purification. They soon after found that
the sand rock itself tasted strongly of saltpetre, and immediately
commenced the new method of working.
Digitized by
Google
*4f MucairnoN of a irrrtB cava.
ihto small pieces with hammers, and throw them into kettles
containing boiling water; as soon as the rock talis into, sand bjr
the actiori of the hot trater upon i^ they put k into hoppers and
wash out all the nitre by frequent additions of cold water, this
solution is boiled down and crystallized without any mixture of
ashes or pot-ash. Sometimes when the mother~watec has been
very often added to fresh solutions of the nitre, they find it ne?
cessary to use a very small quantity of ashes.
I have been infbriried by a Mr. Fowler, that be and his as-
sociates have made saltpetre at twenty-eight different rock hou-
ses or caverns, from which they have obtained about 100000
pounds of nitre, all these are situated on the north side of Ken-
tucky river, within seventy miles of Lexington. H$ remarks
that he has never seen a rock facing the north or west, which
was very rich in nitre. He has always desired from working
a rock when it failed to yield him ten pounds to the bushel of
sand. He has often obtained twenty or thirty pounds per bush-
el He assured me that he once discovered a mass of very
pure nitre, which was found to weigh 1600 pounds. Mr. Foley,
another saltpetre-maker, found one containing 100 pound*?;
another mass was found on Rock castle, which report says
weighed 500 pounds. I have now in my possession a solid
mass of native nitrate of pot-ash of singular purity, which
weighs three pounds, it is more than four inches, in thickness,
and is only a small portion of a block of nitre found last sum-
mer on Licking river* I have likewise a number of smaller
specimens; which I myself procured from the different caves
which I visited some weeks ago. These are generally found
between the rocks which have fallen from the cliffy or the de-
vices of those rocks which still remain in their primitive situa-
tion. The rocks which contain the greatest quantity of nitre
are extremely difficult to bore, and are generally tinged with a
brownish or yellow ocre colour. Sometimes they contain an
oxide like manganese, and sometimes great quantities of iron
ore, which resembles the bark of the scaly bark hickory, sun-
rounded by a finely powdered brown oxide. At some of these
rock houses three hands can make one hundred pounds of good
Digitized by
Google
9S9GU FTIOH Of A NIT** CAVE, *4$
ttitte duly, b»t forty poinds may be considered a* the average
product of thelatxmrof three men >t those works which I had
m opportunity of visiting.
The workmen •being badly provided wkh tods and appara-
tus, dcsfert a rock whenever its sbe or hardness renders it diffi-
cult for them to manage it, and go in quest of v* new establish-
ment. Several caves and rocks which these strolling chemists
have deserted, still contain many thousand pounds of nki=c.
These men are continually searching for masses of pure nitre,
or rich veins of ore, by which much of tbtir time is unprofita-
ble dissipated. Still however most of our sakpetre-i\jakers find
it their interest to work the sand sock rather than the calcareous
caverns, which last yield a mixture of nitrate of pot-ash and
nitrate of lime. The rock saltpetre is greatly preferred by our
merchants and powder-makers* and commands a higher price.
. Mr. Barrow, in his travels through the southern parts, of the
continent of Africa, discovered native nitre, which is probably
similar ta the rock saltpetre of Kentucky. But Bowles, Dillon
and Townshend assure us that those districts in Spain, which
afford nitre most abundantly, contain neither ch*lk, limestone,
gypsugs, not any other calcareous substance. The nitrate of
powaah is obtained there by filtrating a certain kind of black
mould which will continue for ages to yield annual supplies
of k, together with muriate of soda, sulphate of magnesia,,
nitrate and sulphate of lim*. Here then appears to be such a
relation existing between the different saline substances, both
acids and alkalies, that the causes which produce one of them,
Qwing to some y«t undiscovered circumstance* regularly pro-
duce all the rest According to these authors the same mould
will continue forever to yield those raits annually. This obser-
vation i£ correct, would induce us to believe, that both acids
and alkalies are wholly formed from atmospheric air and not
from the soil; as the soil would certainly be exhausted if any
considerable portion of it entered into the composition of either
Che acids or alkalies, and would soon Jose its power of attract-
ing from the air the other constituent principles of the salts.
Both in Spain and India, we are. informed, that the mould
which for fifty years in succession has yielded nitre, still con-
L-
Digitized by
Google
24* DESCRIPTION OF A NITRE CAVE*
tuiues to afford it in undiminished quantities. But how shall
we reconcile this fact with that before related concerning the
production of nitre in the cavities of calcareous mountains1
which are, in many instances, so closely filled up with clay,
that the air can have no access, from which every ray of solar
light is excluded, and where the temperature can never exceed
57° of Fahrenheit? Is it absolutely certain, that nitre formed
by natural processes so very dissimilar, possesses no properties
necessarily resulting from the circumstances attendant on its
formation? That all the nitrates of pot-ash with which we are
acquainted, have certain properties in which they agree, is un-
questionable, but the same may be said of lime and barytes, of
soda and pot-ash, and many other substances, which in the
early ages of chemical science, were probably identified.
Hoffman, long ago proved, that nitrate of pot-ash afforded an
alkali very different from that of wood ashes or salt of tartar.
The observations of so distinguished a philosopher deserve
much attention, and his experiments if repeated by modern
chemists could scarcely fail of affording important results; that
the sand rock sallpetre differs from that procured from the cal-
careous caverns, in the form of the crystal, in hardness and
dryness, is known to all who deal in that article, and every
powder-maker affirms that it makes better gun-powder. Whe-
ther this superiority is owing merely to its greater purity or
exemption from an admixture of nitrate of Time, or whether
the constituent acid and alkali are modified in some unknown
manner, is yet altogether problematical. Chaptal, Thouverel,
Guyton, and indeed most of the modern chemists, suppose,
that pot-ash is a compound of lime and hydrogen, and that
lime itself is formed of carbon, azote and hydrogen, and con-
sequently that pot-ash consists of hydrogen, carbon and azote.
Mr. Guyton thinks that soda is composed of magnesia and hy-
dtogen, and that magnesia is a compound of lime and azote,
and therefore, that soda is made up of hydrogen, carbon and
azote. He is then of opinion that pot-ash, soda, lime and
magnesia are nothing more than varied forms and proportions
of the same constituent ingredients, differing from each other
in the quantities and forces of attraction. This- opinion de^
Digitized by
Google
DESCRIPTION OF A NITRE CAVE. 845
rives great probability from an experiment of Bishop Watson,
by which it would appear, that soda was actually converted
into pot-ash. It is likewise corroborated by the apparent con-
version of lime and soda into pot-ash in our calcareous caverns,
and by the change of what the workmen call cubic salts, into
nitrate of pot-ash. Thouverei affirms that he witnessed the
real conversion of washed chalk into pot-ash, in his experi-
ments on nitrous vapours, and Chaptal observed the same phe-
nomenon when exposing chalk to the vapours of putrid bul-
lock's blood. Now as the nitric acid combines readily with
lime, soda and magnesia, as well as with pot-ash, it may be
easily conceived, that it still retains its affinity for those substan-
ces, in every form which they may assume, whilst changing
into each other, and that the "tcrtium quid'9 formed by the
union of nitric acid and lime in the intermediate stage between
lime and pot-ash, may possess properties very different from ni-
trate of lime or nitrate of pot-ash. The same may be remark-
ed with regard to soda and magnesia. Here every chemist
will recollect the ingenious observations of Dr. Mitchel, con-
cerning nitric acid and the essential differences between that
substance and septic acid at the moment of its formation. No
person can doubt of the possibility of charging nitrogene with
different portions of oxegen. The explosive efficient pro-
perty of nitre may depend on a certain dose of this principle.
But even admitting that pot-ash and nitric acid never vary in
their nature, it may still be contended, that powder-makers
have no means of ascertaining what proportion of acid and
alkali that nitre ought to contain, which would form the best
gun-powder. And whilst this is confessed, it surely can avail
us little, to be very scrupulous in the adjustment of the propor-
tions of the nitre to the charcoal and sulphur. The consumers
of pot-ash, in every part of the world have remarked varieties
in the quality of the salt, for which no particular cause can
be assigned. It is very much to be regretted, that a regular
series of experiments has never been instituted, to discover what
.kind of ashes would yield an alkali most proper for the for-
mation of nitre. Charcoal should be examined with a similar
view. Mr. Coleman has published experiments and remarks
Digitized by
Google
\>
249 DESCRIPTION OF A HITKK CAVB.
^ti this subject, (Philoiophical Magazine, V. IX. p. 355.) which
appear to me very interesting. By his mode of distilling wood
in iron cylinders, he deprives it completely, of all the volatile
oil, hydrogenous gas and pyroligaeous acid. The charcoal
prepared in this way, possesses uniformly the same properties,
and by the employment of it, the powder now used in the
British ordnance, is increased in strength one third.
The gun-powder manufactured in the United States, is said
to be defective, from a disposition either to effloresce or de*
liquesce. The salts most liable to effloresee are such as have
soda for their base. In many of our saltpetre caves, small
quantities of the sulphate of soda have been discovered, which
for want of sufficient care or skill in refining, are suffered to
remain with the nitre. The disposition to efflorescence ap-
pears to be directly opposite to that of deliquescence ; as m
the one case, the air has a stronger affinity for the water of
combination of the salt than that which exists in the salt for'
the water; in the other case the salt attracts moisture from its
combination* with air* It would seem then, that, as the air
is capable of depriving the sulphate of soda of its water of
combination, and as nitrate of lime attracts moisture from the
surrounding air, it is possible, that a mixture of these two salts
may be so made with nitrate of pot-ash, that the nitrate of
Hme may deprive the sulphate of soda of its water of combi- .
' nation, and in consequence of this addition of water, deli-
quescence may ensue, even when the atmospheric air and
moisture are excluded; If Count Rumford is correct in sup-
posing that the explosive force of gun-powder depends not
upon the evolution of permanently elastic fluids or gases; but
upon the almost instantaneous conversion of the water of com-
bination existing in the powder, into steam by the caloric re-
sulting from its inflammation ; this explosive ibrce may be di-
minished for want of that water which might have escaped fay
efflorescence* or on account of the slow combustion of thepow-
jder consequent on dehqutscence.
A concern for the glory and defence of our country should
prompt such of our chemists as have talents and leisure to in-
vestigate this interesting subject. In. 1776, at die request of
Digitized by
Google
DESCRIPTION Ot A NITRE CAVE. 247
M. Turgot, the celebrated M. Lavoisier was appointed ;super-
intendant of the French national powder works, and with what
success he executed the duties of his important commission the
history of their subsequent naval campaigns have sufficiently
evinced. The efforts of European chemists, seem to have been
principally directed to the removal of the marine salt which
the nitre of Spain and India contains in great quantities. In
the nitre of Kentucky, I have never detected a particle of that
salt, and I am confident, that if any is found in it, the pro-
portion must be very inconsiderable indeed. The rock salt-
petre I am persuaded, would, with very little refinement, mak£
gun-powder capable of retaining its efficient properties during
the longest voyages, as I have never discovered, in that species
of nitre, the smallest tendency either to deliquescence or efflo-
rescence.
It will be observed, that I have not in this paper, hazarded
any opinion with regard to the formation of nitre in our sand
rocks. I freely confess that I have no theory on that subject
which is satisfactory to my own mind, I am even disposed to
suspect, that our greatest chemists have still much to learn with
regard to this salt, so valuable in time of peace, so indispensa-
ble in time of war.
No. XL.
An Essay on the vermilion colour of the blood, and on the different
colours qf the metallic oxides, with an application of these prin*
- ciples to the arts. By Samuel F* Conover M. D.
Read June aoth, 280&
On the Vermilion colour of the blood.
THESE subjects have excited the attention of some of the
most eminent philosophers of the last and present century,
though little progress was made in the explanation of these phe-
nomena, previously to the institution of the pneumatic philo-
sophy, when truth burst forth upon mankind, dispelled the
K
Digitized by
Google
1
148 ON THE COLOUR OF THB BLOOD.
errors of former ages, and rendered plain and easy the path to
the temple of science. — The ancient philosophers, seem to have
entertained very incorrect ideas of the cause of the red colour of
the blood, and I believe it was very little understood, before the
celebrated Priestley Lavoisier and Scheele discovered oxigi-
noits gas, or vital air; since that memorable period, many and
various have been the opinions adopted on the vermilion colour
of the blood, and each one has had its votaries.
It has been proved by a variety of experiments made by
these eminent chemists* that atmospheric air, is a mixture of
oxigene and azotic gases, in the proportion of twenty-five parts '
of the former, and seventy-five parts of the latter. Priestley,
Cigna, Hewson, Thouvenel and Beccaria, have made many
experiments on the blood, and have all united in the opi-
nion that its vermilion eolour, should be attributed to the ab-
sorption of oxigene, by the blood, in its passage through the
lungs during respiration. This doctrine sanctioned by such
imposing names, influenced for a long time, physiologists and
chemists to adopt it as the only true philosophy, which had
ever been promulgated. The great Darwin, whose imagina-
tion was too transcendant to be imprisoned within the bounds
of ordinary men, instituted a new theory of the vermilion co-
lour of ihe blood, partly founded upon the foregoing princi-
ples, which nevertheless is infinitely more fanciful than phi-
losophical; for he observes, " that during respiration, the blood
imbibes the vital part of the air, called oxigene, through the
membranes of die lungs; and that hence respiration may be
aptly compared to a slow combustion. — As in combustion the
oxigene of the atmosphere unites with some phlogistic or in-
flammable body, and forms an acid (as in the production of
the vitriolic acid from sulphur, or carbonic acid from charcoal)
giving out at the same time a quantity of the matter of heat,
so in respiration, the oxigene of the air unites with the phlo-
gistic part of the blood, and probably producer phosphoric or
animal acid, changing the colour of the blood from a dark to
a bright red/'
ChaptaJ in his treatise on the blood, remarks that "the co-
lour of the blood has been attributed to iron; that the blood
-Digitized by
Google
ON THE COLOUR OF THE BLOOD. 2i£
does not become coloured without the concourse of air, and that
as oxigene alone is absorbed in respiration, it appears that the co-
lour is owing to iron calcined by the pure air, and reduced to
the state of a red oxide/' This evidently, is advancing one
step further towards the truth than the foregoing doctrines, ne-
vertheless he has stopped short of explaining the true pheno-
menon, for it is very manifest that he has endeavoured to prove
in all*his experiments, that oxigene gas is nothing but oxigene
and caloric. But, by the experiments of Mr. Berthollet, it ap*
pears, that "oxigene and light have great affinity, that light is
susceptible of combining with it, and that it contributes along
with caloric to change it into the state of gas." Mr. Fourcroy
in his general system of chemistry, and particularly on the co-
louring part of the blodd, has offered the following theory.
He says " it must be observed that there are two phosphates
of this metal," alluding to iron, "the one white-grey, fre-
quently of a pearly brilliancy, insoluble in water, soluble in
tliQ acids ; and the other red, more or less brown, and less so-
luble in the acids; this is phosphate with excess of oxide of
iron, and the other is saturated with its acid." "The white
phosphate of iron is decomposed only in a partial manner by
the caustic alkalis, which take from it only a part of its acid,
and leave the salt with an excess of this base. It is in this state
of phosphate supersaturated with iron, a state maintained by
the presence of the soda, that this metal is dissolved in the
blood, and in particular in its serum. The bloo^I of all ani-
mals, when it is red, is coloured by the phosphate of iron,"
How far this theory corresponds with the laws of the affinities,
and the experiments of eminent chemists, the following ob-
servations will shew. If the phosphorus in the blood has a
greater attraction for the oxigene taken in during respiration
than the iron, the phosphoric acid must consequently first take
place, before the phosphate of iron can be produced. If we
take for granted that the phosphoric acid is produced in the
Mood, die soda with which the blood abounds, having a greater
affinity to phosphoric acid, than what iron has, the phosphate
of soda must be the necessary result, and the iron would con-
sequently be left free. For the experiments of Mr. Lavoi-
Digitized by
Google
250 ON THE COLOUR OP THE BLOOJ)*
sier,' and his tables of combinations of the phosphoric acids
with salifiable bases in the order of affinity, clearly prove*
the doctrine of Fourcroy to be highly chimerical. — Also Chap-
tal remarks " that phosphorus precipitates some metallic oxides
from their solution in the metallic state; phosphoric acid is
formed in this operation, which proves that the oxigene quits
the metal to unite with the phosphorus/' and that " phospho-
ric acid acts only on a small number of metallic substances/'
These arguments are sufficient to refute the theory of Mr..
Fourcroy, without the assistance of any additional ones,
Mr. Davy, who has contributed much to the stock of che-
mical knowledge, denies that vital air is decomposed in respi-
ration, and endeavours to maintain, that the disengaged car*
bonic acid and water, are constituent principles of venou9
blood, which are displaced by the vital air; for which the ve-
nous blood has a greater elective attraction, than for its con-
stituent elements, water and carbonic acid, — He also denies the
existence of caloric altogether, and says that oxigene gas con-
sists of oxigene and light, which he has denominated phos-
oxigene; from which he infers that in the process of respiration*
the phos-oxigene combines with the venous blood in the
lungs, and disengages the carbonic acid and aqueous gas from
it, and further, that the vermilion colour of the blood, is pro-
duced by phos-oxigene combining with it in its intire state.-~
If it were a fact, that phos-oxigene combined with die blood
in its intire state, the blood instead of assuming the vermilion
colour, would in consequence of absorbing all the rays of
light, take on the appearance of absolute blackness. — Hence
his method of resolving the phenomenon of the red colour of
the blood is inadmissible. *
Mr Joseph Trent, who graduated in the University of Penn-
sylvania, A. D. 1800, observes that " light is a constituent of
oxigene gas, and that it is to the disengagement and operation
of this substance in respiration, that some of its phenomena
ought, in part, to be attributed, more especially the vermilion
colour of pulmonary blood." — I have endeavoured to give a
fair and judicious exposition of the different doctrines on the
vermilion colour of the blood, and shall now proceed to offer
Digitized by
Google
<tt* flffi COLOUfc OF THE BLOOD. 251
fcr the consideration of this learned Society, my observations
and arguments in favour of a new theory, predicated on the
Newtonian and pneumatic philosophy,, in explaining the sub-
jects of this Essay.
From the experiments which I have made on tight, and from
those detailed by the great Newton and other celebrated philoso-
phers, on which we may rely, it appears, that tight is a mixture of
seven different coloured rays*, of different refrangibilities and re-
flexibilities, and that we are indebted to the sun for all the light
we enjoy; that heat is a simple elementary body, and a necessary
constituent of this planet ; that oxigene gas is a compound of
tight, heat, and oxigene, and that oxigene is held in its gaseous
state by the means of caloric; all of which have been proved
by numerous experiments made by Berthollet, Davy*, and
other eminent chemists, which being conceded, renders it un-
necessary to detail them here. — It has also been proved beyond
the possibility of doubt, by the experiments of the most re-
spectable chemists, that the blood contains iron. — Hence when
atmospheric air is taken into the lungs, the oxigene gas is ab-
sorbed by the blood in its passage through the lungs during
respiration, and from the great affinity of oxigene to the iron
in the blood, it unites with that metal, and the red ray, a con-
stituent of oxigene gas (the most difficult of rcfrangibility) is
absorbed at the same time by the iron and becomes fixed, which
constitutes the red oxide of iron, and illustrates m a philoso-
phical manner, the beautiful phenomenon of the vermilion co-
lour of the blood; while the heat is set at liberty, and the other
six constituent rays of light, either become fixed in the other
parts of the blood, or are carried off in a latent state, by expi-
ration; for it is an established principle in optics, "that some rays
enter into the combination of bodies, while others are reflected,
and this in proportion to the greater or less affinity of the se>
veral rays with these bodies/'
According to the experiments of Mr. Davy, on the com-
position of the nitrous oxide gas, and its comparative influence
• With the exception that Mr. Davy makes to the existence of caloric altogether,— The first
evidence of the existence of matter, is that, it has motion, all the experiments OB heat, prove its
aromexuum, and consequently it ba* attached to it all the properties of matter.
Digitized by
Google
452 Off THE COLOUE OF THE BLOOD.
on the venous blood of animals, exposed to it, compared with
ihe effects produced on similar quantities of blood exposed to
atmospheric air, and also the effects produced on the blood of ani-
mals who have breathed the nitrous oxide gas, compared with die
blood of those who have breathed atmospheric air, support in a
very conclusive manner the doctrine I have adopted toexplain the
red colour of the blood. — For he observes that 'nitrous oxide gas,9
is composed of oxigene S7 parts, and nitrogene 6$ parts,—
" existing per/iaps in the most intimate union which those sub-
stances are capable of assuming; for it is unalterable by those
bodies which are capable of attracting oxigene from nitrous gas,
and nitrous acid at common temperatures/'* — He exposed two
vials of venous blood, one to the nitrous oxide, and the other
to atmospheric air, and found that the coagulum of the blood ex-
posed to the nitrous oxide, was rendered darker and more pur-
ple, than the blood exposed to atmospheric air. — Also blood
drawn from two animals, one who had breathed the nitrous
oxide, and the other atmospheric air, and he found that the
blood of the two animals assumed different colours, corres-
ponding with the blood exposed to the two different gases,
mentioned in the above experiment. — Hence the inference is,
that the affinity between the oxigene and the nitrogene of the
nitrous oxide, is much stronger than the affinity between the
oxigene and the nitrogene of the atmospheric air; that the
temperature of the blood, together with the attraction of the
iron therein, being insufficient to disengage much oxigene
from the nitrous oxide, consequently less heat is evolved from
die partial decomposition of the nitrous oxide, than from at-
mospheric air in the process of respiration, therefore the iron
in the blood is only oxided in an inferior degree, which ac-
counts for the fixation of the violet coloured rayt (the easiest
of refrangibility) and resolves the phenomenon of the purple
colour, the blood assumes from the effects of the nitrous oxide.
— " Likewise die blood altered by nitrous oxide gas, is capable
of being again rendered vermilion by exposure to common air,
or to oxigene gas/'
* See Davy's Chemical Reaearchei.
Digitized by
Google
ON THE COLOUR &C. OF THK METALLIC OXIDES. 253
On the different colours of tlte metallic oxides, xmth en application
of these principles to the Arts.
I shall now proceed to offer for your further consideration *
few remarks on the different colours of the metallic oxides,
with an application of these principles to the Arts.— When
metals are oxided by means of heat, " they are converted into
earthy-like powders of different colours and properties/' The
oxigene gas during calcination is absorbed by the metal, and the
oxigene and the light, (constituents of oxigene gas) become
fixed in the o^tide according to the degree of heat employed ;
for the oxide assumes the violet coloured ray first, and by in-
creasing the temperature, the violet colour is thrown otfi in
consequence of its being the weakest, or the most refrangible ray:
in like manner some oxides assume in rotation the different co-
lours, according to their respective rei ran gibili ties, and they
are dissipated in that ratio to the increase of heat : the red ray,
the strongest and the most ^difficult of refrangibility, requires
still a higher temperature than the other six constituent colours
of light, and from its greater affinity to oxigene than the other
rays of light,, it is not so easily driven off, hence the red ray
becomes fixed in tbe oxide, yvhich constitutes its red colour,
while the heat and the other six constituents of light are set at
liberty : even this red ray maybe driven off by increasing the
heat, and then the red oxide is converted into white. — Accord-
ing to the experiments of Macquer, he oxided gold with a
burning glass, more powerful than that of Tschirnhausen,
and remarked that the oxide assumed the violet colour. — If it
were possible to increase the temperature sufficient to produce
the red oxide of gold, it appears reasonable to infer that all the
intermediate coloured oxides of this metal, might be made,
provided the heat could be applied in that proportion or degree
to the different refrangibilities of the varioua colours. , This
doctrine is eminently supported, by the process employed to
- make vermilion. — If we take four ounces of sublimed sulphur
and fuse it in an unglazed earthen pot, and to this add one pound
of mercury, and let it be mixed with the sulphur by stiring or
agitation. — When these substances have combined to a certain
Digitized by
Google
25* t)N THE COLOUR &C. OF THE METALLIC OXIDE*.
degree, the mixture spontaneously takes fire, and is suffered to
burn about a minute. The flame is then smothered, and the
residue pulverised, which forms a violet powder. This powder
being sublimed, affords a sublimate of a livid red colour, which
when powdered, exhibits a tine red colour, known by the
name of vermilion."— <-Here it is very obvious, that the high
degree of heat, necessary to produce this sublimate, dissipated
the violet colour, in consequence of its great refrangibility, and
fixed the red ray in the oxide, which constitutes the vermilion
colour. — To these I could add numberless facts, on the different
coloured oxides of the different metals, in support of the doc-
trine which I have adopted, 4t but no more causes are necessary
than are sufficient to explain the phenomena." — Hence this.
exposition most elegantly proves and illustrates the doctrine of
Sir Isaac Newton, on the seven different rays of light, and their
different refrangibilities and reflexibilities.
It must now appear very evident, that a knowledge of these
principles, and an application of them to the arts, would in a
very great degree assist the manufacturers, and particularly those
who work in porcelain, china, glass, aqd in all kinds of pot-
tery, to burn in, and fix the different colours, according to their
different refrangibilities. — That is to say, the degree of heat
which would be necessary to fix permanently the red colour,
would be a temperature so high, as to burn out and dissipate,
all the other colours, provided all the seven coloured oxides,
were made from the same metal, and painted on a piece of
porcelain ; therefore to avoid an error of this kind, the manu-
facturer would be obliged to burn in the red colour first, second-
ly the orange, thirdly the yellow, fourthly the green, fifthly the
blue, sixthly the indigo, and seventhly and lastly, the violet co-
lour; for by an attempt to burn in and fix the violet colour first,
and afterwards to burn in the red, before the latter could be
accomplished, the former would be dissipated. — Therefore it
is necessary to know that the degree of heat sufficient to
produce the violet coloured oxide of gold, would be of so high
a temperature as to drive off all colour from the red oxide of
lead, and convert it into a white litharge : hence when several
colours are to be fixed in, or burnt on porcelain at the same-
Digitized by
Google
fc» TUB CQt^HWt 4(ff4.9V&TH^:MffrAIAXC OXIDES. $$5
time, the different cebttred* oxiites from the different metals
should be selected, whicfc would /Ml beaf the same degree of
heat.— §ay 1 300 degrees pf Fahrenheit's tliferftidmeter, conse-
quently jio two oxides of different colours from the same metal
would answer, therefore a; knowledge of thefee principles and
their application* would enftbte the manufacturer to adorn and
Beautify his wares, and ta bring to greater perfeetibii the dif*
ferent branches of the arts; -
Lancaster*
No. XLI.
Observations of tke eclipse of the sun, June l(fr//, \%06\ made at
by Ahiirew EUicoit Esquirr,
Read August 15th# 1806.
DEAR SfR,
Lancaster* Augost lsfc> 1806.
THE following observations, which I request the favour
of you to hand to the Philosophical Society, were made at
this place on the solar eclipse of the 16th of June last.
The morning was cloudy till about 9 o'clock, when the sun
became visible through thin flying clouds: a short time before
the beginning of thd eclipse, the clouds were so far dissipated,
that the limb of the sun was very distinct* and well defined.
At 9* 8 3* 8" A. M. apparent time, the eclipse began; the
first impression made by the moon was at the point expected,
and to which my eye was constantly directed. — The end of
the eclipse was at 0* 18' 56" P. M. apparent time. — A few
minutes after the eclipse began, the clouds increased so much
as to prevent any measures between the points of the cusps or
hortis being taken till 10* 44' 25", when the following series
commenced.
Digitized by
Google
256
OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
1
9
3
4
5
6
7
S
9
10
11
13
13
11
10
9
ft
7
6
5
4
3
3
1
Apparent time.
h i 9
10 44 35
10 45 30
10 46 3
. 104653
. 10 47 37
. 10 48 11
. 104836
. 10 49 16
. 10 49 53
.10 50 34
.10 50 49
. 10 51 18
. 10 51 46
.10 53 30
. 10 53 0
10 55 27
. 10 57 16
• 10 57 53
. 10 58 31
11 0 3
030
047
137
1 58
333
3 57
345
437
455
530
627
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11'
11
11
Ditttace between the
points of the cuspa
by the Micrometer.
58 8
58 8
58 5
57 48
57 34
57 5
56 43
56 23
56 8
55 49
55 37
55 23
55 13
55 4
54 48
53 48
55 23
55 38
56 3
46 33
56 45
57 8
57 15
57 25
,57 33
57 37
57 45
57 48
,58 6
58 8
58 8
Vtfoe of fee
Micrometer la
•exagesimik.*
31 32 3
31 33 2
3130 2
31 35 r
81 16 6
30 ST7
30 499
30369
30 371 *
30 313
30 13 5
30 44
39 572
29 53 0
39 48 1
39 15 6
30 44
30 14 4
30 233
30 434
30 502
30 597
31 4 3
31 10 8
31 15 9
31 18 4
31 33 8
31 25 7
31 30 9
3132 3
31 32 2
The irregular decrease and increase of the distances between
the points of the cusps, is greater than would arise In so ex-
cellent a micrometer from the small imperfections inseparable
from such observations. These irregularities were, principally
occasioned by 'thi? uneven surface of the moon, particularly
that part,. which formed the southern cusp or horn.— The
northern cusp was well defined, and finely terminated, . but the
southern one was sometinjes obtuse, at others terminated by a
parallel thread of light, which disappeared from one end to
the other, at the same time; and frequently one ox two lumi-
nous points of the sun's Kmb, were observed to be completely
detached from the point of the cusp. — The most remarkable
of these phenomena was observed between 10* 52\ and 10* £5'.
To give some idea of this appearance, let the circle ABCD
Fig. 2d, PI. VI. represent the periphery of the sun's disk, and
EBFD that of the moon's : the line EAFC a vertical, supposed to
Digitized by
Google
. Ot.THS .WV, JUNE. IG> 1806. 257
pass thrtmgh-the; centre of- the ^sun ; — then B will represent the
point of the southern cusp. At abojut 10* 53' the point of the
cusp appeared a* io Fig. 3, the thread of light, a b, disappear*
ed from one end .to .the other, at the same instant, the point
of the cusp then appeared as in Fig- *. — In a very short time
the thread of light wfctcfa connected Jb with the body of the
cusp disappeared, and. left b visile, for a number of seconds,
after it wds . detached from the other visible part of the sun.
Th6 cusp thea appeared very obtuse, as represented in Fig. 5
which .Was observed by those who were using the most indif-
ferent glasses.
Those detached luminous points of the sun's limb* seemed
to retain their brilliancy, till the instant of their disappearance,
which it would appear should not have been the case, if the
moon was surrounded with an atmosphere :* — those points par-
ticularly, which were formed by depressions in the moon's
limb, would have had their splendor somewhat diminished,
by the density of the atmosphere, if one existed.:— b\rt nothing
of the kind was observed. . .
The sun's diameter was found by a great number of obser-
vations, made both on the day of the eclipse, and the day pre-
ceding, to be 58^ divisions^ the micrometer: — the deno-
minator of the fractional part of a division being constantly
50 the numerators only are entered in the observations.—
When the first measures were taken, a line joining the points
of the cusps passed nearly through the centre of the sun : — in
that situation it will easily be seen that the distances must re-
main for a few minutes so nearly the same, that but little ad-
vantage can be drawn from tire observations; on this account
I have only made out the results of twelve observations on each
side of the measure, taken at 10* 55' ill", which turns out
accidentally to be, not only the middle observation, but the
shortest observed distance between the points of the cusps: —
the first and three last observations, are therefore omitted in the
calculations. These observations may be so varied, as to fur-
nish a great number of results, because any two, however ta-
ken, on different sides of the apparent conjunction, may be
considered almost equivalent to the observation of an eclipse,
Digitized by
Google
23 a OBSERVATIONS OF TlWt £CLI>9£
and the calculation madfe upon the same principles* only using
the distance of the centres, instead of the sum of the semidi-
aroetcrs.— Those which I used, are marked numerically in the
margin, on each side of the nearest observed distance bet Ween
the points of the cusps:— the ^corresponding numbets fertswer
to the two observations for which a particular calculation was
made. — This arrangement furnished me with twelve separate
determinations, from the meap of which it appeared, thar*up-<
on the supposition of the longitude of Lancaster being 5* 5' 6"
and the latitude 40° *!' 36" the moon's, longitude as deduced
from Mason's tables will be 1' 1" too great, and- the latitude
1 1" too small : — But by the eclipse,, independently of the mea-
sures taken by the micrometer, the 'moon's longitude by the
tables will be 52" too great, and her latitude 3" too small. —
If, however, the tables should be found correct, at the 'royal
observatory of Greenwich, by the observation of the same eclipse,,
or other methods, the longitude of Lancaster must be rediaced
about 1' S3'' in time, by the beginning and end of the eclipse,
and still more by the measures taken with the micrometer. —
It is probable that the error is partly in the tables, and partly
in the assumed longitude of Lancaster.
By the beginning and end of the eclipse, the true conjunct
tion under the meridian of Lancaster, was at II* 15' 31". A. M.
apparent time; and by the measures taken with the microme^
terat 11* 15' 47".
In making the calculations I have allowed 5" for inflexion*
and irradiation, and diminished the altitude of the pole H' 38",
and the moons horizontal parallax 6" on account of the sphc*
toidal figure of the earth.
I am, dear sir, with great esteem,
your friend and humble servant,
ANDREW ELIJCOTTV
Robert Patterson Esq. > _
Y. P. of the A, P. S.£
Digitized by
Google
Of THE StW, JtTNB 10, 1800. fi5I>
Read September l&tfe, 1806.
Lancaster, August 16th, 1806.
Three days ago* I received a letter from my friend, Mr.
Dunbar, at Natchez, containing his observations on the solar
eclipse of the 16th of June last: they are as below.
:sr*$ * I $ J' y i A- * aw>~* «~w
In deducing the latitude and longitude of the moon, from
the above observations* I have diminished the sum of the semi-
diameters of the sun, and moon 6", for the effect of irradiation
and inflexion : — the altitude of the pole 1 3', fand the horizon-
tal parallax of the moon 4" on account of the spheroidal figure
of the earth.
» # »
B^Se^fnmg| ^ conjunct was at J JJl £ %' J Mean. 10 15 20 5
The conjunction at Philadelphia by jour observations. . . 11 20 17 5
Difference %t meridians. , . . .. 14570
Whilst residing at Natchez, some years ap>, I settled the difference 1
of meridians between that place and Philadelphia, from my obser* f «■ 15 3
vations at 16° 15' 46 "• J
difference only . 0 0 6
Let us now take the longitude of Philadelphia, (as long settled) T 5 0 27
for a giren point . . . . y '
Add the difference of meridians between Philadelphia and Natchez. . 1 4 57
Longitude of Natchez. . . . . . . 6 5 34
Conjunction at Philadelphia by your observations. . . 11 20 17
Conjunction at Lancaster. . ; . . . . . 11 15 31
Difference of meridians. . . . . . . -.0446
Add longitude of Philadelphia. . • . . . 5 0 37
. Longitude of Lancaster. • • . . . • 5 5 23
This longitude exceeds that drawn from the measure of the turnpike? 0 0 17
j road, and some of my former observations. . y .
The difference of the meridians as above stated, agree so
nearly with former determinations, that there can remain but
little doubt, that the difference in longitude, between the pla-
ces above mentioned, and Greenwich, as drawn from the late
eclipse of the sun> and as heretofore settled, arises principally
# See Philosophical Transactions, VoL IV. page 451.
Digitized by
Google
«<J0 OBSERVATION* OP TUB 8CLINE
from the imperfection* of the lunar tables, which appear to
give the moon's longitude at the time of the eclipse at least l'
too much: the error in latitude at<the came time is almost in-
sensible.
No. XLII.
Observations of (he eclipse of the sun, June 16th, 1806; made at
the Forest, near Natchez. — Latitude 31° 27' 48" N. and sup-
posed Longitude about 6* 5' 25" to 40"., W. of Greenwich, by
William Dunbar Esq.
Read August 15th, 180&
IN these observations, an excellent clock with a gridiron
pendulum was used, made by J. Bullock of London ; a port-
able chronometer served occasionally as a companion to the
clock, which last was frequently regulated and corrected, by
equal altitudes of the sun, taken by a circle of reflection,
9 April 28th, 180<J, astronomical time. With a six-feet
Gregorian reflecting telescope, power 100, observed an occul-
tation of e leonis by the moon, as follows:
left Immersion at 8* 49' lOi", per clock. The emer-
sion was not seen; the star was at some distance from the
moon's limb, t>ef6re it was noticed, which was ascribed to the
extreme brightness of the moon, then nearly on the meridian.
The following new and short formula was used, for finding
the equation of equal altitudes, viz. To the logarithmic co-
sine of the latitude, add the sine of the half-interval, in de-
grees, and the a nth. comp. of the cosine (or secant) of the
altitude; the sum, rejecting tens from the index, is the sine
of an angle : take out the corresponding cotangent, to
which add the arith. comp. of the cosine (or secant) of the
sun's declination, and the logarithm of the declination, gain-
ed or lost during the halt-interval, reduced to seconds of
lime; the sum, rejecting tens from the index, is the logarithm
of the correction or equation of equal altitudes, in seconds of
Digitized by
Google
OP THE SUN, JUKE 16, 1006. 261
time; additive when the sun is receding from the elevated pole,
and vice versa.
Note, when the index in the last result turns out to be 8 or 9,
which can happen only when the sun is very near the solstices!
the equation must then be considered as a fraction.
May 1st Equal altitudes of the sub's lower limb.
A. M. Double altitude P. M.
k * h of* a#*
At 8 38 314 82 11 35 at 3 20 35}
42 42* 83 57 30 16 23$
50 32* 87 15 42 8 35
57 2 89 59 10 2 3
Contacts of the sun with his image for finding the index error. 2 ^dex °^. 45 5q '
h r „
A mean of the above (jives apparent noon uncorrected per clock, at 11 59 33 22
Equation of equal altitudes. — 5 63
Apparent noon per clock corrected at.- » .1159 27 59
Equation of time. . . . . . + 3 3 25
Clock fast for mean time. . . . 2 30 84
June 2d. Equal altitudes of the sun's lower limb.
A. M. Double altitude P. M.
a $ » ot fc* t ■ 0
At 8 36 46 88 20 at
41 274 90 20
51 14J 94 30
53 35 95. 30-
By these the clock was too last for mean time 36" 4, and
by a comparison with those of May the 1st, the clock loses at
the rate of 3" 6 per day, which correction being applied to
the occultation of e leonis, we shall have the immersion at
S" 46* 30" 2 mean time, or S" 49' 11" 37 apparent time.
June 3d. Shortened the pendulum of the clock, by put-
ting round the index of the bob, one degree or division.
June 5th. Equal altitudes of the sun's lower limb.
A. M. Double altitude P. M.
k s w o m. t *
At 8 38 74 89 at 3 19 14 Index on IT 35"
42 48$ 91 14 19* off 45 33
45 9 92- 11 58$
47 30 93 9 39
49 50$ 94 7 17*
52 Hi 95 4 56}
54 32| 96 2 36$
By these the clock was too fast for mean time 34'' 11
June 9th. Equal altitudes of the sun's lower limb.
A. M. Double altitude P. M.
% * t* o a ' *
At 8 59 13 98 at 2 59 18J Index on VT 50"
9 1 334 99 56 S7i off 45 10
3 54 100 54 36$
6 15$ 101 . 52 16
By these the clock was fast for mean time. 32" 75
3 19 29$
Index on *
18*30'
14 48$
off
44 45
5 2
241
Digitized by
Google
<i<Kfc OJWWVATXOJfll OF T8E ;ECtI?*E
* June Uth, astronomical time, with the; jge{fo2to& . power
100, observed an immersion of Jupiter's 1st satqHrteat 11? ,1*'
Wf per clock: clouds were pawingt Stnd a thin vapour over-
spread the disk of Jupites; it ia conjectured that the, true time
of the immersion might have been 10 or 15 seconds later.
June 12th. Equal altitudes of the sun's lower limb.
A. M. Pouble altitude P. M.
* ' * » H / »
At 9 8 47 102 at 3 50 52 4 Index on 18' 22"
11 7\ 103 43 32 off 44 46
By these the clock was fast for mean time 31" 58, and by
a comparison with those of the 5th and 9th, the clock loses at
the rate of 0" 3<58 per day, which correction being applied to
the time per clock, of the immersion of Jupiter's 1st satellite,
we shall have for the moment of the immersion, I lh 1 7' 44" 644
mean time. The longitude deduced from this observation
would be 6h 5' 41" 4, or 91° <25' 21" West of Greenwich*
© June 15th, astronomical time. Prepared to observe the
eclipse of the sun, which (from calculation) was expected to
begin soon after 20h; at 19h got the telescopes prepared : found
a great undulation upon the limb of the sun, seen through the
♦six-feet reflector; the jed colour of the image was offensive to
the eye; I therefore gave the preference to the fine mild yellow
image (most perfectly defined) of a 2{. feet achromatic tele-
scope, belonging to a set of astronomical circles, although the
power did not exceed 40.
The moment of the expected impression approached, and
reflecting that this eclipse was to be seen all over Europe and
North America, which renders it a very important phenomenon
for settling comparative longitudes, I conceived that all the
zealous astronomers of both worlds were then looking with me
at the great luminary and centre of our system : I kept my eye
riveted upon that point of the disk where the eclipse was to
commence, with an anxiety known only to astronomers; with
the chronometer watch at my ear, I attended to the most doubt-
ful appearances which my perturbation perhaps presented to the
eye, and upon every alarm, began to count the beats of the
watch, (five in two seconds) in order that 1 might not lose the
very first instant of the impression, and I am confident that not
one quarter of a second was lost, of the time when the impres-
Digitized by
Google
OF THE StTK, JUKE 169 1806. 263
sion was visible by .my telescope. Dr. Maskelyne seems to be
of opinion, that five seconds ought to be allowed for the, time
elapsed from the first contact until the impression becomes vi-
sible in our telescopes. The atmosphere was remarkably fine
and serene during the whole time of the eclipse, although the
weather was extremely unfavourable for many days both be-
fore and after. The limb of the sun was well defined, by a
fine circular line, but that of the moon was irregularly indent-
ed, more particularly when seen by the reflector with a power
of 200.
* The result is as follows.
Visible commencement of the eclipte per clock, at 20* 5' 59''
At
True commencement per clock
• — a
. 20 5 54
End of the eclipse per clock.
#
22 39 24
Juue 18th. Equal
altitudes of the sun's lower limb.
A. M.
Double altitude
P. M.
h 9 w
•
a 9 w *
/ w
8 48 23
93 at
3 13 40}
Index on 17 10
50 43 j
94
11 19
off 45 50
53 5
95
8 58
55 26J
96
6 37$
57 47i
97
4 17
9 0 7
98
1 56
By these the clock was fast for mean time 28" 19, and by
a comparison with those of the 12th, the clock loses at the rate
of 0" 565 per day, which correction being applied to the
observed times of the eclipse per clock, the true results will be
as follows.
At
-On the astronomical 15th of June.
Mean time.
Apparent time.
Beginning
• of the eclipse at
20* 5' 24" 6
20b 5T 19/'
• End of the eclipse. ~ .
July 5th. Equal altitudes of the sun's 1
22 38 54 67
22 38 47 72
ower limb..
A. M.
Double altitude
P. M.
a i »
•
»» / 9
8 57 26
95
at
3 11 14}
Index error of the
59 47
96
8 54
morning. 13* 15"
9 2 7
97
6 33
Index error of the
4 28
98
4 12
evening. 13' 30",
6 47
99
1 50*
9 9}
11 30*
100
cloudy
101
2 57 9J
13 50J
102
54 48J
By these the clock was fast for mean time 19" 85, and by
a comparison with those of the 18th, the clock loses at the
rate of O" 49 per day*
M
Digitized by
Google
234 OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
On the evening of the same day h the astronomical 5th.
with the reflecting telescope, power 100, observed an emersion
of Jupiter's 2d satellite at 9* 44' 42" per clock; the above
correction being applied, we shall have for the moment of the
visible emersion, 9h 44' 22" 35, mean time. Clouds were
passing and a vapour obscured, in some degree, die disk of the
.planet, similar to that of the 1 1th of June, though rather more
dense, and it is thought probable, that die emersion was seen
too late by 20 or 30 seconds: the longitude deduced without
correction would be 6h 5' 0" west of Greenwich.
© July 6th, astronomical time, observed with the reflector,
power 100, an emersion of Jupiter's first satellite, at 8h 12' 24"
per clock, and the correction for the rate of the clock being
applied, the visible emersion took place at 8U VJ 4" 81, mean
time, the longitude deduced would be 6h 5' 12" 19. — Now
as the density of the vapour of this evening and that of the
11th of June are supposed to be equal, and that die one ob-
servation was an -immersion and the other an emersion of the
same satellite, die imperfection of vision caused by the vapour
or by the great and strong light of the planet, so near to the
points of observation, would produce errors ip contrary direc-
tions, the one advancing, the other retarding the moment of
visible contact* a mean of the two results will therefore proba-
bly be near the truth.
Result of the immersion of the 11th of June 6*» ^ 41* 4
Result of the emelrsion of the 6th of July. . . . . 6 5 12 19
Mean longitude. 6 5 26 8
No. XLIII.
Observations of tfie eclipse of the sun, June \6th9 1806, made at
Kinder /wok, in the State of New-York, by Jose Joaquin de Ferrer.
Read August 15th, 1S06.
ACCORDING to the latitudes and longitudes of the moon
inserted in the French connoissance de tempi, the conjunction
Digitized by
Google
Ofr THE SUN", JtJNE 15, 1805. 265
ought to have happened 4h 29' 40" 8, mean time in Paris,
latitude of the moon in conjunction 19' 19* N.
Latitude of Albany 40° 42' 38". Longitude east of New-
York, according to the chronometer, No. 63, in time = 58",
the maximum of the total obscurity ought to have taken place
in latitude 42° 23' on the bank of the North river. — The fol-
lowing are the results of an approximated calculation.
Berimunr of the eclipse in mean time. 9 49 00 1 Fiwt ^^ ^ to ^
fJ* *?/? \0t? obs.^urit3r- ' ■ ' }} ?? ^ (left of the inferior vertex,
End of total obscurer. . . 11 11 30 (V v-vew -.„!.„ ^
End of the eclipse. . . . . 0 33 00 3^ mYewc yUfl0n'
On the 8th of June I embarked in a packet for Kinderhook
south landing, which is 15 geographic miles south of Albany
on the bank of the river Hudson, to observe the eclipse, tak-
ing for that purpose an excellent chronometer of Arnold, No.
63 ; a circle of reflection ; and an achromatic telescope, con-
structed by Troughton according to particular directions.
The circle of reflection is not a multiplier, it is 1 1 English inch-
es diameter, graduated upon silver, with three indexes, which di-
vide the circle into three equal parts, and sub-divide it to 10";
mounted on a pedestal, and the telescope magnifies 17 times.
A complete, or double observation is a compound of two ob*
serrations, one direct, the other inverse, each observation has
fliree readings, consequently the error of the divisions, in the
double observations, is reduced to t, the eccentricity destroyed,
as also the error of the index, coloured glasses, small speculum,
and of almost the whole of the large one.
The telescope is 4t feet in length, it has a triple object glass
of 2-^%. inches aperture, a terrestrial eve glass, and three astro*
nomical ones No. 1, % 3, and from the manner in which it is
mounted, the zenith may be observed with as much exactness
as any other elevation.
Rate of going of the chronometer in New-York.
/ *
June 4th, slower than mean time. 11 16 5}
6th, 11 17 0}> mean daily loss » 0" 5
8th, XX 18 53
2M
Digitized by
Google
266 OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
On the 10th of June L arrived at Kinderhook south landing,
the place where it was intended to observe the eclipse* By
observations, of meridian altitudes of the sun and stare, the la-
titude of the place was ascertained as follows.
June 12th. By double altitudes inverse and direct of ursa minor. . 42 23 11
12th. ditto. . . ditto. Antares. . 42 23 18
13th. By one meridian altitude of 0, direct observation. . 42 22 54
13th. ditto. . ursa minor. . 42 23 00
14th. By double altitudes direct and inverse, 50* of time") A0 ^ --
before and after the meridian. . . $ *z ** 5J
Mean latitude. 42 23 03
Rate of going of the chronometer according to mean time,
bycorresponding altitudes of the sun.
June 11th. Chronometer too slow. . —12 09 9"
12th. % . 12 08 4 1
14th 12 06 2 ><Uily«uiL —T' 18
15th. 12 05 r ■
16th. 12 04'
!1
L'OJ
Observation of the eclipse, 16th of June, 1806, with the
achromatic telescope, 2Tyv English inches aperture, triple ob-
j ect glass No. 1, was used which magnifies 90 times.
9h 37' 33", (chronometer.) Beginning 45° from the left in-
ferior vertex, in the very point on which the eye
was fixed, the impression was so slight, that 4" elapsed before
it was certain that it had commenced,
10h 55' 58", (chron.) First interior contact or total obscurity,
certain to* half a second, 50° from the right su-
perior vertex: 4" or 5" before the total obscurity, the remainder
of the disk of the sun was reduced to a very short line, interrupt-
ed in many pacts. — The darkened glass with which this pheno-
menon had been observed, was sufficiently clear to distinguish
terrestrial objects. After this observation I laid aside the coloured
glass, to observe the end of total darkness. I examined the moon
during two minutes^ without observing one luminous point in her
disk. The disk had round it a ring or illuminated atmosphere,
which was of a pearl colour, and projected & from the limb, the
diameter of the ring was estimated at 45'. The darkness was
not so great as was expected, and without doubt the light was
> greater than that of the full moon. From the extremity of the
ring, many luminous rays were projected to more than 3 de*
Digitized by
Google
OF THE SUN, JUNE 16, 1806. 267
grees distance. — The lunar disk was ill defined, very dark,
forming a contrast with the luminous corona; with the tele-
scope I distinguished some very slender columns of smoke,
which issued from the western part of the moon. The ring
appeared concentric with the sun, but the greatest light was
in the very edge of the moon, and terminated confusedly at
& distance.
1 lh 00' 20", (chron.) Observed the appearance of a ribbon
or border, similar to a very white cloud, con-
centric with the sun, and which appeared to me to belong to
its atmosphere, 90° to the left of the moon.
llh 00' 28", (chron.) Observed the illumination of various
points in the disk of the moon on the same 'side.
1 lh 00' 30", (chron.) The illumination of the moon was ve-
ry distinguishable, shewing the irregularities of
its disk, the colour of a palish yellow. — In the moment of the
sun's re-appearance, the versed sine of the illuminated segment of
the moon, was equal to £ part of the apparent diameter of Ju-
piter, observed in opposition with the same tube,
Hh 00' 34" 8, (chron.) End of total darkness, 90° on the left;
the sun appeared as a very bright star of the
third magnitude; at the call of the S5", such was the intensity of
the light that I abandoned the telescope, having received a vi-
olent impression on the eye : from the appearance of the first
ray, to die moment whfen it became insupportable to the eye,
was so instantaneous, that I have estimated it at less than T3T of
a second. It is to be remarked, that this observation was made
without a darkened glass, with tube No. 1, which magnifies
90 times, and is remarkably clear.
0h 21' 38", (chronometer.) End of the eclipse.
During the whole of the eclipse, the sky was very clear,
not a single cloud was visible, and there was scarcely any wind.
The sun was without a spot. A little dew fell during the dark-
ness; five or six principal stars and planets were visible.
Mr. John Garnett (of New-Brunswick, New-Jersey,) who '
also observed the eclipse with an excellent telescope of Dolland,
with a triple object glass, and 2^^ inches aperture, tube No.
1, of the same power as the Qne I used, wa$ placed four or
Digitized by
Google
2G8
OBSERVATIONS OP THE ECLIPSE
live paces from die person who counted aloud the seconds of
the chronometer. Mr Garnett, besides being a good astrono-
mer, was much accustomed to the use of the telescope. — He
directed his view to the 45° on the left of the inferior vertex,
inversed vision, according to a previous calculation, and deter-
mined the following phenomena. chronometer.
htm
"Commencement of the eclipse- . . . . . 9 37 36
Total darkness. . . . . . . 10 55 58
Illumination of the lunar disk, which he observed without a darkened glass 11 00 28
End of the eclipse. . . . . . 00 21 41
Owing to an accident he did not observe the end of total darkness.
Mr. Garnett is positive, that the end observed is correct to
a second, and that the impression was sensible to him three
seconds previous. — We have then,
Chronometer. Mean time. Siderial tine.
k 9 * k ' » k ' m
Commencement. . . 9 37 33 . 9 49 37 3 26 19 7
Total darkness. 10 55 58 11 08 02 4 44 57 5
End of ditto. . . 11 00 35 11 12 39 4 49 35 0
End of the eclipse. 21 41 . 33 45 6 1Q 54 8
The interior contacts were instantaneous, consequently they
may be ascertained at least to half a second ; the beginning to
less than 3", and the end according to M. Garnett to 1".
June 16th. Equal altitudes of die sun.
A. M. P. M. M.
h * • b ' * h f W
Chronometer. ... 7 11 06 0
4 2504 7 '.
11 48 05 35
7 16 08 9
4 19 59 0
11 48 03 95
7 20 44 1
4 15 24 2
11 48 04 15
7 26 56 3
4 09 11 8
11 48 04 65
7 30 22 0
4 05 44 3
11 48 03 15
7 37 44 0
3 58 24 7
• •
11 48 04 35
A mean of these gives noon uncorrected
Equation of equal altitudes.
11 48 04 17
. — 1 27
Apparent noon by the chronometer. . . . 11 48 02 90
Equation of time. . . . . . . + 6 98
Chronometer slower than mean time.
Chronometer.
h § w
7 13 11 37
7 20 44 10
7 26 56 30
4 09 11 80
4 11 17 10
4 15 24 20
Chronometer slower than mean time, by the 0's altitudes at noon.
By the equal altitudes. ....
00 12 04 08
O's true altitude.
o / w
30 53 54
32 17 18
33 26 06
33 26 04
33 03 03
32 17 17
ir 04" it
12 04 08
Mean
12 04 09
Digitized by
Google
OF THE SUN, JUNE 16, 180S. 269
.. The above altitudes of the sun are the result of direct and
inverse observations, corrected for refraction and parallax.
June 18th, we embarked in a packet for the house of Chan-
cellor Levingston, which is* on the bank of the river, and by
two direct observations of meridian altitudes on the 19th and
20th, the latitude of said house appears to be 42° 04/ 39".
Chronometer flow with respect to mean time, by three series of complete > • -* « *~ -
observations of altitudes of the sun 19th of June in the morning. J
By three series, 30th, ditto. . 11 33 2
June 21st, we embarked for New- York, and having put in-
to Newburg on account of the wind, I observed the latitude
from the wharf of that town, from a meridian altitude of the
sun, and found it to be 41° 30' €20'\
By four series of altitudes of the sun, taken in the afternoon
of the 22d of June, the chronometer was slow with respect to
mean time 0h 1 1' 1 1" 50.
June 23d, we arrived at New-York.— By observations of al-
titudes of the sun in Partition street, the chronometer was as-
certained to be slow with respect to mean time,
June 24th. ..11' 09" 3
July 4th. ... 11 17 5
If we compare the absolute state of the chronometer from
the day of departure to the 24th, when I returned to this city,
it will appear that in 16 days the gain was « 9" 2, daily gain,
«£*«0" 571
Mean gain between die obserrations of New-York before our*) q,, ~.
departure, and the observations of Kinderhook. ' . J ' *
Between Kinderhook and the observations at New-York on our return. . 0 25
Long, im tine.
• # w a
Latitude of New-York, Partition street 40 42 40 Longitude 00
Newburg 41 30 20 East. 2
House of Chancellor Lcvingston. 42 04 39 East 23 6
Kinderhook, S. landing, where the eclipse was observed 42 23 03 East. 51 3
Albany, Pomerat's Hotel 42 38 38J East 58
The position of Albany I determined last year, in the month
of August, with the same chronometer and circle of reflection,
and its correctness is to be depended upon, as much as that of
the other observations. The rate of going of the chronometer
was, with a very slight difference, the same as it was found to
Digitized by
Google
270 OBSERVATIONS OP THE ECLIPSE
be this year; from the 4th of August, 1805, the day the chro-
nometer was taken out ot* New- York for Albany, to the 15th
that it was again examined, on my return to New- York, the
daily gain was — 0" 54.
Elements calculated by the astronomical tables of Lalande,
third edition.
16th of June 1806, 4»> 2T 40" 8 meantime in Pari*.
• 0 9
Longitude of the C apparent equinox. . 84 44 31 1
Idem O idem. . 84 44 34 3
Northern latitude of the C . . 19 24 0
Horizontal parallax for Paris. . . 60' 13" 4
Correction of the tables. . — 45
Horizontal parallax for Paris. . 60 08 9
Horizontal parallax of the 0 . 8 5
4 if
Horary motion of the C in longitude. . 36 41 92 in Lat <-=3 22 86
The hour that precept. . 36 41 24 3 22 80
The hour that follows. . 36 42 60 3 22 92
Horary increase of the horizon talparallax of the ( 1 16
Horizontal semidiameter of the C . 16 26 96
Horary increase of the horizontal semidiameter of the C 0 26
Horizontal semidiameter of the 0 . . 15 46 08
Horary motion of the 0 . . . . . 2 23 16
Right ascension of the 0 . 5* 37 05 2
Horary rariation in right ascension of the 0 10 4
Proportion of the axes of the earth 334 to 333
Latitude of Kiiulcrhook— Vertical angle —42° 12 47
9 w
Relative horary motion between the commencement and conj. in Kinderhook 34 17 52
the end and conjunction . . 34 19 62
1st interior contact and the conjunction. . 34 18 54
2d interior contact and the conjunction. . 34 18 60
Apparent obliquity of the ecliptic. . . . 23 27 56
The epoch of the lunar tables I have corrected according to the equations
of De Burg, which in 1806. . — 1» 15° 0T 11* 4 4- 11" 5 — 1" 4
Mean anomaly 3 25 3727 +46 —1 4
To calculate the latitude, I have diminished the inclination
of the lunar orbit, &', and have further applied the correc-
tion —-MJ" sine long. < .
€'s Horizontal parallax for Kinderhook— (60' 08" 9—1" 2 on account of the spheroidal
figure of the earth,) — 60' 10" 1.
Difference of horizontal parallaxes of the of the 0 and C «• 60' 02" 6
k t 9 k I » h 9 9 fc#*
^J^£2S!!?\*»* »<*<» »»» •»«
Longitude West of Paris. 50450 50450 50450 50450
Mean time in Paris. . 2 54 27 4 12 52 4 17 29 5 38 35
Right ascen. of the mid-heaven. 51 34 56 71 14 22 72 23 52 92 43 48
Latitudes ofthe* by the tables. 24460 202086 20 05 27 153094
Digitized by
Google
OF THE SUN, JUNE 16, 1806. 271
©'" ♦©'# » • 9 W o * '*
Altitudes of the nonagesimal. 67 20 23 70 18 06 70 24 58 71 14 00
Longitudes of the nonagesimal. 60 05 00 75 20 39 76 14 50 92 08 02
Dist of theC to the nonag. 4-2S 41 IS +9 13 35 +8 22 13 —6 41 21
32^§R£££iJ:J »"» * »«•* ' «>02 3 «» 9
Parallaxes in longitude. . +22 34 50 + 9 12 20 + 8 21 60 — 6 44 50
Parallaxes in latitude. . —23 05 5 —20 13 7 —20 07 11 —19 23 95
Apparent latitudes of the <C N. 1 40 5 N. 7 1 S. 1 80 S. 3 52 00
Inclination of the orbit in the interior contacts. 4 49 30
Chord i 48 16
^::^^S£^ } i6 « " i6 « ** .* « « * « *
In Albany the eclipse was observed by Mr. Simeon de Witt.
Beginning, apparent time . I . . • • 9 50 12
1st interior contact 11 08 06
2d ditto 11 12 57
End of the eclipse ■ . . . 33095
M. De Witt did not apply the correction of corresponding
altitudes, on account of the variation in the sun's declination,
and in thk case we have the observations as follows.
9* SO' 13" 1
11 08 Q7 1
11 12 58 1
33 09 1
,The end of total darkness was observed by the naked e^e,
the other observations were made with a telescope which mag-
nified SO times. — It is observable that the end of total darkness
was so instantaneous, (as* is expressed in my account,) that the
error made between the observations, made by the best tele-
scope and the naked eye, could scarcely amount to half a
second.
Latitude of Albany as stated in my observations, page 269,
is 42° 38' S8£". — Longitude east of New-York by chrono-
meter No. 63 in time » 58"
The beginning and end of the eclipse at Albany do not ap-
pear to have been cofrtctly ascertained, which it is easy to see
by reference to calculation.
The interior contacts are to be depended upon.— It results therefore from the interior
contacts at 1U» 08' 07" 1 Parallax in long. 9' 06" 9 Parallax in lat —20' 29" 8
11 12 58 1 ditto 8 14 1 ditto 20 22 #
Inclination of the apparent orbit — 4* 30' 35" Chord — 1' 53'.' 00
N
Digitized by
Google
272 OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
In Lancaster it was observed by Mr, Andrew EUicott
Beginning in mean time 9h 33' 14"
End. . • . 0 19 02
Latitude of Lancaster— Vertical angle ... —39° 52* 27"
9 * 4 9
Parallaxes of Longitude P* ™ %l Parallaxes of Latitude — Jg £ *
In Philadelphia by Mr. Robert Patterson, corrected Lati-
tude - 39° 46' 53"
Beginning in apparent time . . 9b 39' 59'"* 0 •
End 0 25 48 9
9 9 / 9
" Parallaxes in Longitude =» £+2* °* J J Parallaxes in Latitude— £^i J 53 3
On the thanks of Schuylkill, in the western part of the city
by F. R. Hassler, west of the State House in time 7"
Corrected Latitude . ' .39° 46' 53"
.Beginning, apparent time 9* 39' 48" 5
End 0 25 48 9
9 9 f9
Parallaxes in Longitude — £ +** \\ $1 Parallaxes in Latitude- £ 16 S3 9
Mr. Dunbar, at his plantation latitude 3 1° 27' 48", longi-
tude 6h 14' 50", at 44. miles east of the river Mississippi, near
the Natchez,v 8 miles distance, 9" in time east from the fort
of Natchez.
Beginning. . 20** 05* 29" mean time.') rp. t^u.™^ **+~*:a-a ah *i-»—
End, 7 . 22 38 55 idem. 5 ™e Telescope magmned 40 time*
/ 9
Parallaxes in Longitude — \i$r 55 /} P*«ulaxcs in Latitude— J S 08 I
By die observations of Kinderhook.
The latitude of the C in conjunction . . ... — 19* 35" S
Inflection of the semidiameter of the C . «■ — 2 05
Ditto © . . . — — 1 95
From these elements I have calculated the following table.
The longitude of Philadelphia I have supposed to be 5* 09'
57" west of Paris, and that of New-York 5* 05' 25" 4. By
the combination of different observations with these data, and
the differences of longitude resulting from the different obser-
vations of the eclipse, I have determined the longitudes of
Mr. Dunbar's house near Natchez, and of Lancaster. — That of
Albany 4 have determined from the mean result of the chro-
nometer and eclipse.
The situation of the house of Chancellor Levingston and of
Newburg are ascertained by the chronometer referred to Kin-
derhook and New- York.
Digitized by
Google
OF THfc SUN, JUNE 16, 1806.
273
»>
g-Bg
3 » rt
og"5
t.
o jr? 15 e-g
H
f
lis.
r
* tit Ok O* Ok In U» C* o» o» w
,{k MMH*OOOOOQ w
M O Ot 4* Ct iO tO O CO IO «
4> UOtObtOOOOtOOOl
r
8 gfcSS&SSSSg •
M < n B C/> g*
c/5
r
is
WWHO
b a o o
P.O.J3
O o P-B
2. o
3
©
O000<00<0
O
M HA
Ohh<0 V
s
CO Oh- CO tO CO
00<* tOCOOttO
8!
CHOCOOO
co!o§o %
8
a©ss$* 3
jfsss
ftCOp CO
00
0000*0 4*
O
00«ONN
OB O
1
++ 1 + 1 +
!
1*1 +
I+++
5*
§5
CO
SSo^g
M
o
is
«*lnOp<o
o>oo<©to *
8
5
MpHO
fMHtJ
=3.6
I*
00
N(OOOOMO»
00
*fc<0 M<0
^NMO»
+ ++++++
++++
++++
5*
*f
HHM(OMk9
©<© C7»M C7»»-a
>•*
SJ2©©
s©©si >
o
00 £ S COCO o»
o
CO
COC*tO<0
tssss .
<o
td o>t9Cit<e o»
o
co <©•***
<oto**o»
?
M
HMHMMM'
Mi
H* ►»* l-» »-*
M »-* H* M m
^o
h*
OO M H*M !■*
H*
M M I-* I-*
M M M *+ m
a"
C
KKSSotS © ©888
<X tn Ot (ft ^
S3.
is
o
00
WWWMOM
H* HtO^ MCO
Ok
u> to oooo
CoCoCOfc fc
K>
VOOCOOt OO
to
oooo
HUlOi^O
WvsA^JVa^
V/WW<J
t-^-yyJ
O H* H*
to
o
o
© 8
5 ft
00 o
8 »
Digitized by
Google
27* OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
Fig, 1 in Plate VI, represents the total eclipse, I shall on*
ly remark, that the luminous ring round the moon, is exactly
as it appeared in the middle of the eclipse, the illumination
which is seen in the lunar disk, preceded 6" 8 the appearance
of the first rays of the sun. Two minutes previous to the
emersion, I had fixed my eye on the point from whence it
was to proteed, and as the field of the telescope did not em-
brace more than a third part of the disk, I could not observe
whether or not the circumference of the ring was diminished
on the opposite side, — In the part where the emersion took
place, the ring was illuminated by degrees, and the atmos-
phere was more dense and brilliant near the edge of the moon.
A little before the illumination of the lunar disk, I observed
a zone to issue concentric with the sun, similar to the appear-
ance of a cloud illuminated by the rays of the sun, and as it
is represented in the figure, the versed sine of which was very
nearly equal to that of the illuminated part of the moon. —
We have seen that the radius of the luminous ring was 224. mi-
nutes, the horizontal semidiameter of the moon deducting the
inflection 16' 23" 8, and the horizontal equatorial parallax at
the time of conjunction ^(JO' 15". With these elements if
we suppose the ring to be the visible atmosphere of the moon,
it would follow, that the height of the lunar atmosphere,
would be 348 geographical miles above its surface, which is
fifty times more extensive than the atmosphere o( the earth.
It will moreover appear, that such an atmosphere cannot be-
long to the moon, but must without any doubt belong to the
sun.
If the moon possessed such an atmosphere, it would be ma-
nifested by a diminution of the duration of eclipses, and oc-
cultations. — We have seen that the diminution of the semidia-
meter of the moon resulting from the observations of this eclipse
is 2" 5, by comparing it with various occultations which I liave
calculated, die inflection appears to be 2", it may be the effect
of the irradiation of light, but supposing it even to be caused
by the horizontal refraction of the moon, we know that the
inflection is double the horizontal refraqtion. The horizontal
terrestrial refraction, is nearly 33', therefore the density of the
Digitized by
Google
OP THE SUN, JUNE 16, 1800. 275
atmosphere of the earth, is 1980 times more than that of the
moon. — We must conclude that so rare an atmosphere cannot cause
any evaporation.
Some of the lunar mountains are 1 J miles high, and we
can clearly perceive them with a telescope, which magnifies
100 times, and it is constantly observed, that the spots and in-
equalities of the superficies of the moon, are always seen in
the same form, whence it follows, that there can be no cloud
which covers even one mile in extent. Again, it has been ob-
served that the edges of the moon emit more light than the
centre, which is the very reverse of what happens in the sun,
comets and planets, of which the centres are more luminous
than the edges, on account of their being surrounded by at-
mospheres.
It has appeared to me, that the cause of the illumination of
the moon, as noticed above, is the irradiation of the solar disk,
and this observation may serve to give an idea of the extension
of the luminous corona of the sun. Suppose then that there
is no density in, the lunar atmosphere. — By the preceding cal-
culations, the apparent relative inclination of the orbits between
the interior contacts was 4° 4i>' 30", the duration of the total
obscurity 4' 37" and the relative apparent chord 1' 48" 16.
Moreover, the illumination preceded the emersion 6" 8; we
have therefore very nearly the irradiation of the semidiameter
r.u ^ l' 48" 16X <s" 8
*fthee~ 4-49-30 ~2 g'
No. XLIV.
Obsavations on the solar eclipse of June 16th, 1806, made at
Bowdcrin College in the District of Maine. Communicated by
a member of this Society to Mr. John Vaughan.
Re&d March 6th, 180T.
YOU ask for the result of the observations made at Bow-
doin College, (in the township of Brunswick and district of
Digitized by
Google
216 OBSERVATIONS OF THE ECLIPSE
Maine,) on the subject of the solar eclipse, of June 1<J, 1 80S.
I send it to you as I have received it from the respectable Pre-
sident of that institution, the Rev. Dr. M'Keen.
I shall begin by an extract from tjie letter of President
M'Keen. '
Brunswick, August 22d, 1806.
"DEAR SIR,
"On several days previous to the solar eclipse of June 16th,
" I paid particular attention to my clock, and by a great num-
" ber of double altitudes ascertained the rate of its going, Pro-
" fessor Cleaveland and Mr, Parker observed with me.
4
•* We rated the beginning of the eclipse at . 10* 14' 00" ) A ^^* 4.
"the end . ... 12 55 20 $ Apparcnt tunc*
" As we had no micrometer fitted to either of of our tele-
" scopes, we could not determine accurately, the quantity
" eclipsed ; but by receiving an image of the sun through a
" reflecting telescope, upon a plane surface with twelve con-
" centric circles drawn upon it, we were assured that it ex-
" ceeded eleven digits. We did not find it easy to keep the
"limb of the sun's disk long in perfect coincidence with the
"arc of the greatest circle, and therefore could not measure it
" with perfect accuracy. The Rev. Mr. Jenks, who assisted
"me in this observation, thought it exceeded 11 -J. digits; I
"judged it to be somewhat less. It may be presumed there-
" fore, that at the greatest obscuration, 1 14- digits, nearly* were
"eclipsed.
"The latitude of the College is about 43° 53' N; and its
" longitude, as determined by an eclipse of the moon in Ja-
"nuary, 1805, is 69° 50' W. of Greenwich.
" Three or four stars, about die middle of the eclipse, were
" easily seen with the naked eye.
" Professors Abbot and Cleaveland noted a series of obserfa-
" tions of the thermometer, barometer and hygrometer of Du-
" luc, during the eclipse. The barometer did not appear to
"be at all affected by it; the mercury in the thermometer fell
"6 degrees and t rose again, and the hygrometer varied from
Digitized by
Google
OF THE SUN, JUNE Iff, 180G. * S77
"59 to 57 and returned after the eclipse nearly to its former
" position."
I shall now proceed to give you the supplementary remarks
which have been furnished by Professor Cleaveland.
1 " Our large reflecting telescope has the magnifying power of
" 450. I used the shortest eye-glass and middle-sized specu-
44 lum, which, if I am correct, magnifies 360 times.
"The President used his own telescope, and left the ma-
" nagement of the large one to myself. — Its magnifying pow-
" er is so great, that fearing lest I should not discover the com-
"mencement of the eclipse, I kept the telescope in a slow mo-
"tion, ranging backwards and forwards in a small arc. The
^'telescope was probably at one extremity of this arc, while
"the immersion actually took place, for at the moment when
"it was actually discovered by the telescope belonging to the
"equatorial, I moved my telescope, and found the shadow
" must have been discoverable two seconds at least. I allowed
" one second for the motion of the telescope, after the eclipse
"was seen by the observer with the equatorial, and the time
" of the commencement was noted one second back accord-
ingly. This perfectly agreed with the observation of the
" emersion. — We had some one at the clock, counting seconds;
" and the shadow was visible one second longer by the large
" telescope, than by the other, which circumstance was con-
" sidered confirmatory of the allowance of one second made at
44 the commencement." So far the college observations extend.
I do not recollect to have heard of any accurate astronomi-
cal observations, made in the United States to the north of
Brunswick.
No. XLV.
On finding the longitude from the moon's meridian altitude, by
William Dunbar of Natchez.
Read August 15th, 1806.
THE usual mode of making the lunar observation for the
purpose of ascertaining the longitude/ requires the aid of a
Digitized by
Google
27$ ON FINDING THE LONGITUDE FROM
chronometer or good watch, to a single observer, and as time-
pieces of a delicate construction are liable to derangement, the
discovery of a method, by which one observer without a know-
ledge of the precise time, may be enabled to ascertain his Ion*
gitude, becomes a desideratum of value.
There are two portions of time during each lunation, when
the moon's change of declination is sufficiently rapid to afford
the means of solving this useful problem; those times are, when
the moon is on or near the celestial equator, and may be ex-
tended to four .or five days at least, i. e. two before and two
after the day on which the moon crosses the equator : the moon's
change of declination in the most favourable circumstances,
exceeds 6° in twenty-four hours, or 15" in one minute of time
and although this is scarcely half the moon's motion in longi-
tude, yet it is to be remembered, that this method is no other
than a meridian altitude, which may be taken to a degree of
precision, never to be attained in the usual manner of taking
the moon's distance from a star, and if the altitude be taken at
land, with the aid of a mercurial horizon^ the double angle
will place this method on a footing of equality (nearly) with
the usual mode, in respect to the moon's change of place, other
circumstances being in its favour. The accuracy of this me-
thod, depends upon the correctness of die lunar meridian alti-
tude, and the precision with which the latitude of the place
of observation has been ascertained.
At sea, this method cannot always be used to advantage,
on account of the ship's change of place, which might ren-
der the latitude doubtful to several minutes, and thereby affect
the longitude an equal number of degrees.
The moon's greatest altitude being taken, a correction be-
comes necessary, because the greatest altitude is not on the
meridian, but to the east or west, according as the moon is in-
creasing or diminishing, by change of declination, her zenith
distance, and which may be calculated as follows. — Having
cleared the moon's apparent altitude from the effects of refrac-
tion and parallax, the difference between it and the co-latitude
of the place of observation, will give the moon's declination
nearly, from which by even proportion may be found, the ap-
Digitized by
Google
dn>xhwate' twftt a* Ortcnti'wh :'ifcft?|^' ^i^^-fkid c'hci rate of
change- «f< the ^ootf'f'defclhgdioni'fep cifw ittiwrte«rfitimte,<artd'
also the difference between the moon's meridian altitude, .and"
its altitude one minute before or after, caused by the diurnal
rotation of the earth, con&blfrdd* MuQ& the progress in right as-
cension ; those two effects may be considered (at small distances
from theifmeridiafr) T&opdwMlg in lhe;?ana» line, :'and:fri %p-
pttkeQHnfcliorii; ,'PtiWta ipcyrekntitbedaaciircim thetdetUfc
3n;owba»iithtf-*n<«rtkf^akiUi(36; \&li be tbesaQieilas:wh«n <^*;thc
meridian, a, for the chaAge iri d^dirikfion,{,ahd-b/ forjfcheid<£
B&e^on Jwm^he mefidj^n,.,^^n^rmjnute of time.^ .tbe.:first
ia«»tt*s'or diminished fe'the«di(eW^-atid tb»«ed©ri& (for «matt
quantities) in the duplicate ratio of the times ; hence we shall
fiavebx%»* ax, aftd'-tHetefore * :^g i; erthetinie (in minuted)
from *th^ meridian, when tne • change in Secfihafiori' will be*
e4u%li^'i^'U]|ei<4epcds^o'n,v^lU::b^ found :;by dividing the
change '*% deefcrtdfron ,ttyjthl& depre^siott;f<w <dnb hiintoje ©tf
titite;-4ttha1^lhtt dJ^i^ibtii^
im dedication ^ill toe-jdaubte th&depra&on>(.and will tee tha
present <fhe cdrrttetidfl ; ^ ife^ the &}uare;of >the«ate &> cft&rige
of dedIh«ion^ • dividdd^by- fOttr tihttk 'Jthe> idepr esbtoh fifo*f nolle
m^tite'of-tiww, \\4H be ^«>r«midtt/fouithe Aiebn'sWAetidiaw
altitude <- which may be^wive«k^rtly'>fbu»d.by the lowing
formula, -expired 'm-\6gtohhtotefoti%ii5fe&' ; ' ':';«> .^ -
-To twice the sine df l^-flS^ 5- add'^tte-aritW. A^ornp. of
ttie sine ^cefcecant) of T antith^gdA'frMafU^, the sum,
abating 20J from the index/- Will prodtice thi c6ns»a^4ogarkbm
.3651*1*1 To*he ebnfstairt logaritl^ add'Acf'MiYfr^thtf
dedinatiori df; the* moon, t&e-cOfeihe of thfc latitude;* ami! : the*
arith- coitijx of the eosin&:(or sefeant) of; tl*c altitvHte, the sum,
rejecting 4en^ iromLthe<-inde$, will fbte>the« logarithm* of four,
times the- depression* wWcli- subtracted iVottv twtee thelega-
<f
280 p ON FINDING THE LONGITUDE F10M
rithm of the rate of change of declination for one minute of
time, the remainder will be the logarithm of the correction in
seconds.
EXAMPLE.
Given the moon's greatest altitude near the meridian, cor-
rected from the effects of paral. and refraction, 45° 40' 80" 59 ;
the latitude of the placer 32° S9' 25", and therefore the moons
declination (neariy).is 11° 50' 14" 41. .. ,. ..
Constant logarithm. . .8651414 Change in declination for V iff time 12" 8*
DecMl° 50' IV 41 coeiae. 9,990664a Logarithm of ditto. . . 11099413
X 2
Lat. 32 29 25 coaine. 9.9260761 Square of change of decL Log. £2184820
Alt 45 40 20 59 cos. ar. co. .155671* 4 times the ckpresrion. Log.— .9375542
Log. of 4 tunes the depression. .9375542 Cor. for mer. alt 19" 096 Log. 1.2809278
The correction being found by the foregoing formula, is to
be subtracted from the greatest altitude, cleared of the effects
of refraction and parallax, the remainder will be the true alti-
tude of the moon, when die was on the meridian. The difr
ference between the corrected altitude of the moon's cAitre on
the meridian and the colatitude, will be the moon's true decli-
nation, when on the meridian : the tin*e at Greenwich, when
the moon had that declination, being found, and alto the time
of the moon's transit over the meridian of Greenwich, take
their difference, take also the difference of, the increase of the
A. R. of the * and © for the interval of time elapsed in passing
the two meridians, which last difference being subtracted from
the first difference, the remainder will be longitude in time.
In order to calculate with sufficient accuracy, the times cor-
responding to the moon's declination, and her transit over the
meridian of Greenwich, it will be necessary to prepare four
right ascensions and four declinations of the moon to seconds,
which in the nautical almanac, are set dpwn to minutes only,
by the aid of which, with the tables of second differences, we
can find very correctly the times which are sought, and in re-
gard to die moon's declination, the effects of aberration and
nutation should not be omitted, because an error of seconds in
Digitized by
Google
TH* MOON'S' MEHtDt AK; ALTITUDE. #81
the calculated declination/ might produce an error of a like
number of minutes of a degree in the longitude; those effects <
though of less importance in th? moon's right ascension/ may
also be brought into calculation.
EXAMPLE I.
On the evening of the 10th of November, 1804, at Fort
Miro, on the -river Washita, took the apparent double altitude
of the moon's lower limb (greatest) near the meridian, 89° 17'
20", index error 4* 13' 47" 5, the latitude of the place of ob-
servation 32° 2& 25'V Required the longitude;
• f 9
Double altitude of 7fa lower Umb. 89 17 20
Index error . +13 47 5 Rate of change of 2'sde-
■ clination in 1 of time by
2) 89 31 7 5 even proportion. . 13" 25
Apparent attitude of 3*i lower limb. 44 45 33 75 Correct by aecond dif-
Efleets of refraction and parallax. ' + 39 8 36 ferencea. -0 3!
True altitude of 3*s lower limb. . 45 24 42 11 True rate of change per
>gsemidiameter and augmentation. . + 15 38 48 minute at 12h 40* Green-
» wichtime. k . 12 86
Altitude of V* centre. * 45 40 20 59
Correction by formula. - — 19 10
TVue altitude of lt% centre on meridian. 45 40 1 49
Colatitude. : . .. 57 30 34 91
12 39 56 17
-f 1 15 09
12 41 11 26
6 22 39 22
6 18 30 3
—11 41
ya declination on the meridian. .11 50 33 42
Appt time at Greenwich' when the 5 had this declination by even proportion.
Correct by the equation of second difference.
Apparent-lime ai Greenwich when the 3- was on the meridian of Fort Miro.
ditto, at d^o. when the J. was on the, mer. of Greenwich interpolated.
Diff. of appt time corrected by the equation- of time — il" 74 give* mean time.
Difference of increase of A. R. of the 2) and 0 during the interval.
Lcalptudeof Fort Miro, . . . 6 6 49 3
Compftiiton of t&e above with other results.
him
Longitude deduced from a mean of six distance! of the sun west of the moon. 6 5 59
a mean of three distances of a Arietis east of ditto. 6 7 40
'Longitude a lunar eclipse 14th of Jan. 1805, (a fine observation.) 6 6 42 5
Mean longitude"of Fort Miro, differing from the result by the meridian') - * a* *»
altitude, only 2" 13, or about 32" of a degree. . . . 5 e MM7
Digitized by
Google
EXAMPLE H. . '.,.: .:
October 7th, 1805,. at the Forest plantation^ latitude SI* 27^
48'', observed the apparent double altitude of tK? .moon's ^Ipwer
limb (greatest) near the meridi&n, ' 133° ir iVr
The index error being subtractive, add the lesser contact of 7 - - «q
the sun with his image taken immefliattty *ft& o^sjpftafian. 3
2)133 26 44
^at. 31Q27'48r . Appju^ntakttfidcof-thc^s/DCliM*. 66 4a. 23 . , • , '*
Colat 56 32 12 . PartMax and reWactioft. '...'.'+ 3* 4T 75 _
"i: OiIL ' * - tr:«iC' iff/ 'i "TH 'iflt :» .oi;*'*'
True altitude of the 3^s centre. r 67 6f a 75 r. ■.
': . : .;' • ; Correct]Qn\ftr{&tttfe 1^ 1 'Ti'cr.l 'iytfuLm& *'" '**'
Wucafcbf^scelitrc^nthimer: * "o7 '}JfW32 'IXfIi ' ' "'
3*s declination wfceium the meridian. 8 33 40 32
h . >..,?,.
Appt time At Qreenwich whence 3 bid tbis declination by even proportion ' \f i$ 5$ 18
Correction by the equation of second difference. / — 2 12 47
71
U
Appt time at Greenwich, wheftlthe^ was oa {he mer. of place of obsfrcqtipQ,.,!? 4X3P T--
Appt timt 6orrected,- when th<i 3 wa^on' the meridian of Qrecnwioh. * " .* 4* At W *■
Difference of a^pwntt&je. . « . . .- -6 Xf* 21 56
. . ^ojTec^forthe>co^t^of tiine. , f •■.-•.'.. 4i4M£
Difference in mean time," of the ^passing the two meridians. „ . - $ U 4tf $5
Difference of A. R. of the 2 and Q4 gained during' the interval A . , -r^f . r4
Longitude of the place of observation^ ',„""" ^ * . * . v , . *.t&,;£r20P$f
Mr. Ellicott has made 30 calculations,' on which he seems to rely for the jjnjnjn^e, V
the Natchez, (others were rejected,}' nj^extreme results are 6* 4' 27** to 6* a 4T*, and
a mean of the whole is 6b 5* 49". ' The position of the Forest j^ntation ia,, *b^J&*Mih*
eastof Natchez, i. e. 9" in time, which being added lo the above result, «veV8" 9 30*
for the longitude of Natchez, differing jvam .t^e; n>can of Mj. Ellicotf s abqe/fmtioQa.;i9''
or 44 miles/ •" "r - • ..,.-. . • ,trw . .r . -* -tot ....
~£ftirpmpr*^
1m opposition, -sand an emersion «f *he sameesdotf after, ahd as
they were pcohaUyr both, -affected by the/ aear Wcimtjr-o* • die
light of JupiterVdKk, "but actifrg ih confrilrjr 'directions, a mean
of the two results may be supposed near to thetrulbi*1 subject to
the^ correction wt^4jbf $^
June 11th. By an immersion of Jupiter's 1st satellite. . 6h 5* 41** 4
July 6th an emersion of ditto. . . .•,-..•-.,.• r # 6 5 12 IP
-
* "■ * Mean longitude. ' . . 6 5 26 S
The mean differs only 5" 8/ nearly ljmfle from the result of the meridian altitude.
CC*fln tlie above method of finding the longitude, as a small error In the meridian altitude of
the moon, will produce a considerable one in the longitude, a correction ought to be applied
on account of the spheroidal figure of the earth........... Edit.
Digitized by
Google
( 283 )
No. XLVI.
An account of the Freestone quanies on the Potomac and Rap-
pahannoc rivers, by B: H. Latrobe.
Read February 10th, 1807.
ON <hc ISth of December, 1798, I presented to the
American Philosophical Society, a memoir on the sand hills
of Virginia, whkh the Society did me the honor to publish
in the fourth volume of their Transactions, page 439. — It wad
my intention then, to have offered to the Society, a series of
geological papers, the materials of. which I had collected, and
erf which this memoir was the first. \ But my intention was
delayed Indrpartly defeated by the loss of a very large collec-
tion of all; the principal fossils, necessary to elucidate my ob-
serratbn^ in their passage by watery from; Fredericksburg to
PhiladelphiJu^r^This collection, intended for the American Phi-
losophical: Society* was .made by the industry of my excellent
friends, Mr. William JUaclure now at Paris, of the late Dr.
Scandella whose untimely death in 1798 science and friend-
ship equally have to deplore, and of myself. — It consisted of
spedtneftsr.of loose and undecayed fossil shells, found on and
mwr the surface* from the coast to the falls of the rivers of Vir-
ginia, of the shell rocks of York river, of the clays with im-
pressions bf shells.- in every fracture, but which shew no re-
maining evidence of any calcareous matter when subjected
to ichemical tests; of the exuviae of seaanimals*, bones of fish-
es^ sharks' teeth, marsh mud, fossil wood and coral rock, dug
from the deep wells about Richmond, of the marles of Pa*
munky and Mattapony, of all the strata of the coal mines on
James's river, of the varieties of the granite of Virginia, of
the free stone of James's river and the Rappahannoc,
with the vegetable petrefactions and coal belonging to it; and
of a iariety of miscellaneous fossils. — My object in reciting
* drawings of some of the exuviae accompanied my memoir, to which refer. The
bones of the loot there represented, arc probably those of a sea tortoise. Vide Vol. IV. p. 444;
Digitized by
Google
284 ON THE FREESTONE QUARRIES OF
this catalogue, is to encourage some member of the Society,
who may read it, and whose opportunities of collection are
better than my own, to remedy this loss.— All these specimens
may be procured with very little trouble in Virginia.
The loss of this collection dispirited me, and the occupa-
tions of a most laborious profession deprived me of time. Hav-
ing now for some years waited in vain, for the leisure necessa-
ry to reduce into something like system, the various notes I
have made, I must content myself with giving to the Society,
unconnected papers, which will contain the facts collectively,
proving beyond doubt, that a line drawn along the falls of our
rivers, is the ancient line of our sea coast, from New-York to
the south west; as it still is from New- York to the north east-
ward, and that the water of the ocean rose, perpendicularly,
at least 120 feet higher along the ancient coast, than it rises
along our present coast. — And lest this assertion should appear
extravagant, I will here mention, somewhat outof place, that
in the year 1796, I followed with a spirit level,* in the neigh-
bourhood of Richmond, the pebble stratum, which has all the
external appearance of a sea beach, for Xnore than five miles, and
found it a perfect level, elevated about 120 feet above the tide at
Rockets. — The subject of my present communication, is imme-
diately connected with the memoir on the sand hills of Virginia.
Its object is, to give to the Society, an account of the freestone
quarries on the Potomac and Rappahannoc, from the form-
er of which, the freestone employed in the public buildings
of the United States at Washington, is obtained. — The range
of sand stone rocks in which the quarries are situated, was, in
fact, the ancient sea coast, bounded by sand hills like the pre*
sent, and the description which I shall give of them, will, I be-
lieve, remove all doubt on this subject
On consulting the map of the middle states, it will be found,
that the river Potomac, at the confluence of the river Pisca-
taway, in Maryland, a few miles above Mount Vernon, takes
a remarkable turn to the south of west, and continues to run in*
a south westerly course, as far as the confluence of Acquia
creek, on the Virginia side, when it gradually turns to the east
of south, and in the course of ten miles lower, pursues a north
Digitized by
Google
THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOC. $85
easterly direction. At the point at which the Potomac
again resumes its course eastward to the ocean, its distance from
the river Rappahannoc does not exceed six miles in a straight
line. High land separates these streams. — The navigation of
the Potomac is much superior to that of the Rappahannoc,
and very great advantages would accrue from their junction at
this point; but the task of connecting them by a tunnel through
this narrow ridge, must be reserved for wealth and population
infinitely superior to that of the present age. — From Piscatawav
to Potomac week, the course of the river Potomac is paral-
lel to that of the sea coast, and measuring along a line run*
ning about S. <?0° east*, the distance from the present coast
will be about 120 miles. — The range of sand stone rock lies
on the west side of the Potomac, beginning a few miles be-
low the bend, and continues running in a direction parallel to
its south western course, until the river again turns to the east-
ward.— There it crosses under the ridge which separates the
Potomac from the Rappahannoc, reaches and crosses the
Rappahannoc, and appears to run out about two miles on the
west side of this river.-^— I have not seen, or heard of its hav-
ing been found further to the south west for 50 or 60 miles,
but it is again found 12 miles above the foot of the fails
of James's river, in a situation much higher above the tide,
than at the Potomac and Rappahannoc, a situation appa-
rently inexplicable upon any supposition which applies to the
sand rocks of these latter rivers; and yet, so exactly similar
are these James's river rocks, in all their geological character-
istics, that it is impossible not to attribute their formation to the
same process of nature. The present state of these rocks is
very irregular. — They make their appearance upon the slopes
of the vallies and -water courses, along the whole hne which I
have described, in large disrupted masses, or in regular ranges,
# The courses of north 4Q° east, and south 60° east, form a spherical angle, at which,
vtitk occasional but never very great variation, the two principal planes of Rhomboidal crys-
tallization, not only of our rocks of every description, granite, slate, marble, limestone,
wacke, and of all those numerous and ambiguous genera of rocks, lying in character, be-
tween a distinct granite on one side, and homogenous basaltes on the" other, intersect each
•ther, but which decide the position.— I had almost ventured to say the crystallization of
the constituent parts of the globe, from the equator to the pole, and from the* Mississippi at
least to the Atlantic. On inspection of any map of North America, esp^ciiJly U* drawn on
M^rcator's principle, this fact is evident to the eve.
Digitized by
Google
£Bfi VON THE MtEtSTONfi tftTAMttSS d&F:
the external' parts of which arc generally W£tth*r-«r6rny flaky
and broken. The most extensive ranges are found in elevated
situaticms.rr-In the bottoms of vallies the masses that- are found
there, appear to have fallen or elided down into the watdr course,
ami. the large misses that form: the sh&& of Potofti&i arid
Kappahannoc, are evidently much bel^wtheitongmBh posi-
tion.-r-On quarrying into the rock, the stont is found $xW
amorphous,, often stratified with layers of cky ^r pebbtes 4a»-
tween the strata, having also frequently ^ipHght j^^op fWc-
lures, so regular as to look, like plaited of tirykailizartiift*^ The
stone is however undoubtedly amorphous-and aggtegdte; c The
smd stone is covered with a superstratum of alluvial materials,
deposited to appearance, subsequent to the formation oif ithfe
stone; as sand, clay, gravel and pebbles, large and small; rotind*
ed by attrition out of many species of mountain stofce.' A\6tf^
this superstratum is fpund the ancient pebble sbeacb, mention^
ed above, it forms the spil of the bigh land off the icotmtty, fe
from ten to thirty feet deep, and where it is fhittnet along lift
edges and slopes of the vallies, it seems to have beett wq$be9
away; for in considering the whole <?btintry, below the M\&
of our rivers, we must necessarily perceive, that, if the phfase
may be admitted, it has no hills, but only valltes^ . that is*i it'
was originally a plain, into which the valties have been gullied
by the drainage of water, on the receding and depression of
the ocean from its former level of 120 feet above its present
elevation. As I am not going to form any hypothesis, the' dif-
ficulty arising from the existence of the ancient pebble beach,
at an elevation considerably above the still jnore* ancient sand
beach, presents, to me no difficulty in my opinion of the ori-
gin of this sand stone.
. The component parts of the stone are,
Sand, generally sharp, but often rounded by attrition, of
variously sized grains, from very coarse to extremely fine.—
This forms the mass and body of the stone: — in this sand is
found a variety of extraneous matters.
Clay, in nodules, generally round, sometimes, but rarely,
stratified as if deposited. The clay is white and remarkably
pure. The clay holes are very troublesome to the stone cutter
Digitized by
Google
THE POTOMAC AND RAP*AHANNOC\ 287
and diminish the value of these quarries exceedingly. They
are found from the size of a pea, to many inches in diameter.
Pebbles, large and small, of quartz, sand stone, granite, whin,
rounded by attrition, and amorphous lumps of quartz.
Pyrites* or lumps of marsh mud mixed with sulphat or
sulphuret of iron, efflorescing in the air. Often when one of
these pyrites happens to be concealed near the surface of a
wrought stone, so that the air and water may reach it, it swells
and burets the stone,, thereby defacing the work. This is ano-
ther disadvantage in using it.
Nodules qf' if on ore- in sand, these nodules dissolve in the air
and water, and stain the stone disagreeably; In a spherical
hole of the stone, t once found a nest of very beautiful paral-
lelopipedal crystals, quite transparent. I had no opportunity
of examining them chertiically.
Wood, from trunks and branches of trees of large size, to
small twigs, either entirely carbonated, or the wood carbonat-
ed and the bark in a fibrous state, so as to have the appearance
of a net, and a considerable degree of tenacity ; or the bark
fibrous, and the wood in a state quite friable ; or the wood re-
placed' hy pyrites, which effloresce in the air* ; or in cavities, the
sides of which have the impression of branches, in minute rami-
fication, and are lined with a pellucid crust, probably calcareous
spar. This latter evidence of the admixture of wood, is to be
found chiefly near Fredericksburg.
Iron, appearing in stain% either of masses, or in dark fer-
ruginous spots and clouds; and clay, infused through the whole
mass, with probably an infusion of lime, which appears to be
the cement by which the sand particles are held together; for
the acids indicate no existence of carbonate of lime, and 1 have
not yet been able to submit the stone to any. chemical exami-
nation. ,
* I had a piece of this specie* of pyrites, in appearance the branch of a tree, with a
small twig' attached to it ;• about 3 inches long, and 4 of an inch diameter, very hard and
heavy, 1 carried it in my pocket for a fortnight, and then threw it into a small box in my
office, containing drawing instruments. It remained there for two years, but last summer
during very damp and hot weather, it effloresced, and fell into powder, corroding and in-
juring my instruments exceedingly.
Digitized by
Google
288 ON THE FREESTONE QUARRIES OF
Native allum, is found on the lower projecting surfaces of the
rocks, where they are in wet situations, probably produced by
the sulphur of the pyrites combining with the clay of aggre-
gation.
The colour of the stone varies from white to a dark rusty
tint. Herewith I present to the Society, two blocks, the one
of the whitest, the other of the darkest tint. The dark block
was, when cut, of a rusty brown, but wishing to weigh the
stone in its driest state, I placed it on the plate of an iron stove.
In a quarter of an hour its colour was changed almost to black.
The degree of hardness is very various. When moderately
hard, its fracture is rough and irregular, when very hard, con-
cave and even, when breathed upon, it has a strong earthy,
and somewhat hepatic smell.
The specific gravity of the stone is as various as its colour
and texture. The two blocks herewith presented, are very ac-
curately four inches square and two inches thick. — They weigh
as follows: —
The brown block 2ft 6.6902 Averd.
white block 2 3.96
.... difference 2,73°*
54 of these blocks make a cube foot, therefore the difference
of weight in one cube foot, between the white and brown
stone would be, 9& 3.42.°*
The white block absorbed in 24 hours, of river water
6.250z, or at the rate of upwards of 21fc per cubic foot.
One of the most remarkable circumstances belonging to this
stone, is the arrangement of the particles of sand of which it
consists. In whatever direction a block is cut, the successive
accumulations or strata, which may be easily distinguished by
the different size of the grains, their colour, the admixture
with other substances, and their individual parallelism, appear
not to lie in beds parallel to each other, but in masses bound-
ed by wavy lines; or which are suddenly cut off by other
misses, the lines of which wave in another direction ; and this
appearance is such, that many stones exhibit by the lines of
their strata, a good representation of the wavy hills of the sand
coast, as will be seen by reference to the plate in the fourth
volume of the Transactions of the Society.
Digitized by
Google
THE POTOMAC AND RAPf AHANNOC. 289
. This mode of stratification appears to me to be an incon-
testable proof, that the wind has been the agent of accumula-
tions of the sand of which, the stone consists, as it is now of
the sand hills of our present coast. For if, it could be suppos-
ed, that the agitation of the surf, or of the whirls which occur
in all. water running through an interrupted course, could have
caused this appearance, it would have occurred, as in cases
where there is no doubt of ; aqueous deposition, that the stone
would have separated more, easily at the lines of stratification
than elsewhere., But such is not the case in this stone, for it
is as solid at the lines separating the strata as elsewhere.
As the difference of granulation is exceedingly various, often
within. a very small space, so is also the cohesion of the stone,
very uncertain. Often with tfee fairest prospect of a hard sound
mass of rock, of great depth and thickness, the quarrier sud-
denly strikes into a mere friable sand bank. Quarrying is
therefore a lottery, in which the blanks are often more nume-
rous than the prizes. .
The quality of the stone, as a building material, is also in
other respects various. Of the stone most even in its grain and
texture, most pleasant to work, and of the most durable ap-
pearance, a great part cracks and falls to pieces, on exposure
to the sun and air, especially if rapidly dried, after being taken
from the quarry. . Sometimes contrary to all expectation, the
frost tears it to pieces. — All of it expands when wet, and con-
tracts in drying. This property it seems never to lose. When
buried in the walls of a heavy building, it is controuled by the
incumbent weight, but those blocks that are. more at liberty,
either at one or both ends, are subject to this variation of size;
and the joints of the work open and shut, according to the
dryness or humidity of the weather. Window and door selles
therefore, which are confined at both ends, and free in the
middle, generally break, and the fissure opens and shuts alter-
nately, to the amount, when open, of one tenth of an inch
in a block, of six. feqt. .
Below the freestone is, found, on Potomac, most frequently
loose sand, sometimes a stratum pf round gravel or pebbles, —
seldom olay, — yery often loose.stope yery full of carbonated
Digitized by
Google
290 ON THE FREESTONE QUARRIES OF
wood:— on the Rappakannoc, loam, marsh mud, qreickiand,
day and dry sand :— and neat Mansfield below Fredericksburg,
the largest mass of timber, which I have yet seen :-*-on i«rat*V
river, sand, gravel, loam. The wood mixed with the stone
on James's river, is, I think, less carbonated than on the Rap*
pahannoc and Potomac— The superetratt ,are generally, soft
clay, loam, and tolerably pure clay, in a state of excessive
compactness. On the level countfy, light loamy sand, anil
on the slopes of the vallies, the Imeo} seatomh above mention-
ed, often washed and spread over the>detiiivity, often in heaps
and ridges. But it will be observed by any traveller, that net*
ther in the bottoms of vallies, out of the beds of the present
fivers, nor on the tops of the levels, is gravel to be found.
The superstrata however vary considerably, in one of Mess.
Cook and Brent's quarries on Acqqia, the following are the
strata: —
Mould • . . . Oft- 4J*
Loam, with some gravel 3 0
Coarse, irregular, ill compacted, disrupted sandstone 5 0 "
Gravel, hard clay, lumps of coarse sandstone. . 10 O
Four strata of marsh mud, and four strata of \
excessively hard and pure clay, alternately, one i 8 0
foot thick each lying quite horizontally. . )
Loose sand SO
29 4
Very excellent and solid freeestone, containing
fewer clay holes and lees wood or iron than ordi-
nary, 8 feet, and running out landwards to 2 feet.
Then sand of great depth.
The best quarry now in work, lies two miles S. W. from
Acquia creek, and belongs to Mr. Robertson, like all others,
it is on the top of the slope of a valley, and the face shews
as follows: —
Mould 1* 0
Clay, very hard, and some gravel 2 0
Rough disrupted sandstone 2 0
Loose sand. . . . 2 O
Sound and excellent rock 15 0
Digitized by
Google
POTOMAC AND RAP^AHANNOC. 291
Under the rock fine loose sand.
In this rock, which runs N. E. and S. W. there is no joint
horizontal or perpendicular, and columns of any size, not ex-
ceeding 15 feet diameter, might be got out of it, if they could
afterwards be removed. — The largest blocks however which I
have had taken out, do not exceed in weight four tons.
In working these quarries, the workmen having cut the face
perpendicularly, first undermine the rock; — an easy operation,
the substratum being loose sand. If the block is intended to
he 8 feet thick, they undermine it 5 feet, in a horizontal di-
rection, in order that it may fall over when cut oft. They
then cut two perpendicular channels on each hand, 1ft. 6m.
wide, at the distance from each other of the length of their
block, having then removed the earth and rubbish from a ditcli
or channel along the top of the rock, they cut into the rock
kself, a groove, and put in wedges along its whole length.
These wedges are successively driven, the rock cracks very re-
gularly from top to bottom, and it falls over, brought down
partly by its own weight. Blocks have been thus quarried 40
feet long, 15 feet high, and 6 feet thick. The block which
was quarried at my last visit to the quarry, was of the follow-
ing dimensions :—
26 feet long, x 8 feet deep, x 14 feet high - 2912 feet,
which at 15 feet to the ton, agreeably to the quarry rate, amounts
to near 200 tons.-*— These masses are then cut by wedges into
the sizes required.
On referring to my memoir on the sand hills of cape Henry,
it will be seen that the sand is blown up from the margin of
the sea, inland ; — that it soon forms a ridge or down of shifting
sand, along the shore above high water mark, covering the old
surface of the earth with all its vegetation, that in the course
of no very great length of time, it accumulates into hills that
destroy and swallow up forests in their progress; that its sur-
face is constantly changing with the operation of the wind : —
and that, therefore, this sand mass, must contain broken
limbs and bodies of trees, iron in greater or less quantity,
together with all kinds of extraneous matters, blown up from
Digitized by
Google
292 ON THE FREESTONE QUARRIES OP
the ocean by storms, as clay and mud, mixed with sea water,
when a tremendous and muddy surf is blown ashore through
the air by violent winds. If we now suppose, that by any
operation of nature whatever, these sand hills from a loose
state were to become concrete, the rock thus formed, could
not in any of its characters differ from that which now forms
the freestone quarries of which I am speaking.
These considerations therefore irresistibly impress the belief
that both masses are of the same origin. — The disrupture of
the ancient hills, is not difficult to account for, if we suppose
the ocean to have retired so much below its ancient level, as
appearances seem to prove, the sand hills would be undermined
by the water from below them, seeking the lower level of the
sea, and washed to pieces by the torrents from above. Thus
masses of stone, undermined and broken, would fall into the
bottoms of the new vallies, and appear on the levels of the
present rivers, while others would retain their original situation
high above the new level of the sea, — Thus far, rational con-
jecture will lead us, but further we cannot venture. — Who can
answer the questions that then present themselves? If these
^concreted sand hills were once the ancient shore, rising above
the level of the ancient ocean, at what sera was the gravel
beach created at their summits? or the marine exuviae depo-
sited far below their base, as well as upon the mountains rising
thousands of feet above their tops? It is fortunate that the so-
lution of these ^enigmas of nature are of no consequence what-
ever to our happiness, or of use to our enjoyments. — But the
pleasures of investigation, and of wonder, the offspring of ig-
norance, are not without a charm, which often entices the
mere speculative philosopher into researches that produce results
beneficial to mankind.
I will here close my description of these sand rocks, and
endeavour to find an early opportunity of transmitting to the
Society some further repiarks upon those of James's river in
particular, connected with that most singular and unaccountable
region, — the coal region, of which I will only at present hint,
Digitized by
Google
THE POTOMAC AND RAPPAHANNOC. 293
that it appears formerly to have been a spacious lagoon of the
sea, of which these particular sand hills are the shore.
B. HENRY LATROBE, F. A. P. &
Surveyor of the Public buildings of the U. States.
No. XLVIL
Further Observations on the Eclipse of \6th June, 1806, being
an appendix to No. XLIII, page 264 of this Volume, by /.
/. de Fener.
Read April lfth, 1807.
SINCE the Memoir was printed I have received the follow-
ing observations.
At the Hydrographic Repository at Madrid, Don Philip Bauza
lieutenant in the Royal Navy, observed the beginning of the
eclipse at 4* 27' 48" 6, and the end at 6* 09' 07" 2 apparent
time. Latitude of the Repository 40° 25' 08". Longitude
west of Paris 24' 08" in time. Magnifying power of the tele-
scope 110.
At the Royal Observatory in the Island of Leon, Don J.
M. de la Cuesta, lieutenant in the Royal Navy, observed the
commencement 4h 18' 42" 2 apparent time. The end was
not observed on account of the clouds. Latitude of the ob-
servatory 36° 27' 45". Longitude west of Paris 34' 08".—
Magnifying power of the telescope 53.
I have re-calculated all the observations of page 273, mak-
ing use of the new solilunar tables, published in Paris, 1 806,
by the Commissioners of longitude. They are as follows, for
V 29' 41", mean time in Paris.
Digitized by
Google
29* FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE
• # m
Longitude of the ©*« apparent equinox. . . 84 44 37 2
Idem. Vs 84 44 4T 8
North latitude of the 3 00 19 19 3
Horary relative motion in longitude. . . 34 18 5
Horary motion in latitude, south. ' . . . 3 23 6
Horizontal equatorial parallax of the X . * 60 15 8
Idem. . © 8 6
Horizontal semidiameter of the <q * * * 15 46 04
Horary increase of the 2*s parallax, .... . - 1 10
Increase of the 3's horary movement. 1 41
The other elements are the same as those in page 270.
Comparing the commencement at Madrid, with the com-
mencement at the island of Leon, it appears that the observa-
tion at Madrid was delayed 7".
Combining the beginning at the island of Leon with the
end observed in Madrid, supposing the sum of the apparent
semidiameters diminished 4" 5 for the irradiation, we have the
conjunction in Paris mean time 4* 30' 1 1" 6. Correction of
tables in latitude of the moon— +10" 9.
In Boston, latitude 42° 21' 13", longitude west of Paris
4° 53' 28", it was observed by three persons with achromatic
telescopes, which I shall distinguish by the numbers 1, 2, 3.
Beginning of ' End of the
the Eclipse. 'total obscurity. End of obscurity. Eclipse,
k ' " hi* a $ m * • ' "
No. 1. . 10 03 21 11 22 31 11 27 09 0 48 01
2. 10 03 21 11 22 31 11 2T 09 0 48 59
3. . 10 03 20 11 22 40 11 27 08 0 48 07
The state of the chronometer is not known, because no ob-
servations were made to ascertain the time, and the only use
that can be made of these observations, is to determine the er-
ror of the tables in latitude, or, knowing this element, to deter-
mine the difference of the semidiameter of the sun and moon.
I have again examined the corresponding altitudes observed
by M. de Witt at Albany, and have determined that
h / 9
The commencement of the total obscurity, mean time. . . 11 08 14 6
End. . . ditto 11 13 05 6
Duration according to M. de Witt ... 4 51
Applying the calculation to the observations of Kinderhook,
supposing the correction of the tables in latitude **+ 10" V as
it results from the observations of Madrid and the island of Leon*
We have irradiation of the semidiameter of the 2. . ■•— 3" 25
Idem. . 0. ... —1 25
Digitized by
Google
ECLIPSE OF THE SVK, JUNE 16, 1$Q6. $95
With these elements we have the conjunction
At Kinderhook. Mean time.
h 9 9
For the beginning of the eclipse. I 11 25 40 9}
Total obscurity. . 11 25 40 7f 11k ot, **„ y
End of total obscurity. . 11 25 40 7C " * ** w 7
End of the eclipse 1125 40 5)
In Albany with the tame elements, conjunction in mean time.
For the beginning of total obscurity. lib 25' 4f 2
End. . ditto. 11 25 ST 0
Comparing the beginning of the total obscurity at Kinder-
hook with the beginning of the total obscurity at Albany, it
results that Albany is east of Kinderhook. . . » 6" 5
By the chronometer, page 269. . . . ■■ 6 7
This determination appears to be correctly ascertained, and
to prove indubitably, that there was an error of about 10" in
the end of total obscurity : it will not be improper to note that
the interior contacts are instantaneous, and therefore the half
second easily distinguishable. — Therefore the error should be
attributed, to taking one decimal for another, the same remark
should be made on the Boston observations.
Indeed, on applying the calculation, it results that the num-
ber 3, in place ot taking 1 1* 22' 30", made a mistake and
took 1 1* 22/ 40", so that the duration of total obscurity No.
1, 2, appears to be the most likely to be correct.
Suppose the longitude of Boston 4h 5S' 28", we have the
chronometer slow to mean time 2/ 02",
9 m
Duration of total obscurity by observations 1 and 2. 4 38
In Albany ... 4 41
In Kinderhook. 4 37
In Boston the shortest distance from the centres. . . 14 7 N.
Albany 6 1 S.
Kinderhook. 9 7 N.
As the moon at Albany passed to the south of the centre of
the sun, and in Kinderhook and Boston to the north of it, by
combining the. three observations, the result is as follows:
Correction of the tables in latitude. . . ' . + 10" 5
Irradiation of the Cs semidiameter. 3 15
Irradiation of the ©*s semidiameter. 1 35
With the same elements we have the conjunction in Lancaster.
For the beginning llh 15' 25" 3 mean time.
End. . 11 15 31 9 ditto.
Q
Digitized by
Google
296 FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE
It appears that the commencement has been anticipated 6"
or 7" by some error, let us see whether this doubt can be
cleared up.
The solar eclipse of the 26th of June 1805 was observed by
Mr- EUicott in Lancaster.
^^b^tfinNew-Yort f ff £>"> whence diff. of mer. -* IT
Kinderhook east of New- York page 269. . . 0 51 3
Kinderhook east of Lancaster. . . 10 07 3
Comparing* the beginning at Lancaster, with the commencement 7 tn u fi
observed at Kinderhook, June 16th, 1806. 5 xu i* o
Ditto the end at Lancaster with the end at Kinderhook. . . . 10 08 6
By this comparison it appears that the error is in the commencement at
Lancaster, and that the difference of the meridians of the two places is « 10 08 6
At Mr. Dunbar's habitation near 7 by the Commencement . . 10 15 22 7
Natchez, the conjunction 3— —End. 10 15 21 0
These results confirm the allowance of the irradiations of
the semidiameters which I have adopted, it being very proba-
ble that the beginning was delayed 2".
M. De Lalande, member of the Board of longitude, has favor-
ed me with an answer to the Dbservations I communicated to
him, it is dated Paris, 27th September, 1806, and states that he
had calculated my observations at Kinderhook, and that he found
The conjunction in mean time . . . . . . 11 25 39 65
In Paris by the observations of Europe. 4 30 12 65
Difference of meridians.
This result is the same with that established in page 2r3.
By the observations of Mr. Patterson we find
The conjunction in mean time at Philadelphia.
Philadelphia west of Paris by the mean result of many observations.
' Result, conjunction in Paris mean time.
By the observations at Madrid and the island of Leon.
By M. Lalande.
' Conjunction mean result. . . 4 30 12 6
Determination of the longitude of Natchez and New-Orkans.
By comparison of the end observed in Kinderhook, with the end observed b ' "
at Mr. Dunbar's house,— longitude west of Paris. —6 14 51 5
The Fort of Natchez west .... 9
Fort of Natchez west of Paris. 6 15 00 5
New-Orleans west of Paris page 222. . — 6* 09' 46"
Fort of Natchez west of New-Orleans page 159— 5 16
Fort of Natchez west of Paris . . . 6 15 02 0
5 04 33 00
11 20 IT 0
5 09 56 5
4 30 13 5
4 30 11 6
4 30 12 6
Fort of Natchez west of Paris mean result. 6 15 01 0
New-Orleans. ditto 6 09 45 0
Digitized by
Google
ECLIPSE OF THE SUN, JUNE 16, 1806. 297
Table of the results of geographical positions which should
be substituted for those in page 273.
Long. W. from Paris*
Latitudes*
* 9 "
O > 9
Bowdoia College. . • 4 49 16
43 52 00
Albany 5 04 25
42 38 38
Kinderhook south landing. 5 04 32
42- 23 03
Chancellor Leringston's place* . 5 04 58
42 04 39
Newburg' . . 5 05 21
41 30 20
New- York. . . . 5 05 23
40 42 40
Philadelphia. . . . 5 09 57
39 57 02
Lancaster. 5 14 41
40 02 36
Williamsburg. . 5 17 04
37 15 50
Fort at Natchez. . . .6 15 01
31 33 48
New-Orleans. . - 6 09 45
29 57 30
Sum of errors of the longitudes of the moon and sun or correction to be
Subtracted from the new tables, supposing exact the longitude of the sun a— 27" 5
North latitude of the moon in conjunction at 4* 30' 12" 6—19' 27" 1
Correction of the Tables » -f 10" 9
' Investigation of the semidiameters of the sun and rnoon.
The horizontal semidiameter of the 5 in conjunction is by the tables 16' 26" 85
idem. . . .0 15 46 04
Difference of the horizontal semidiameter by the tables . 40 81
Supposing the correction of the tables in latitude of the moon. *»+ 10" 9 then
Difference of the horizontal semidiameters in conjunction.
For the observed duration of total obscurity at Kinderhook. . 38 72
For Albany, supposing the duration of total obscurity 4' 41 • 38 85
For Boston, ditto ditto. . 4 38 39 64
Mean difference of the horizontal semidiameter in conjunction. 39 07
. It is to be remarked that the difference of the semidiameters,
resulting from the total eclipse is that of the lowest points of
the moon's surface, as, according to the statement, page 266,
•' 4" or 5" before the total obscurity, the remainder of the disk
44 of the suq was reduced to a very short line, interrupted in
44 many parts."
At this time the most prominent points of the lunar disk
were projected on the sun; consequendy, the duration of the
total obscurity, had it not been for the concavities of the limb
of the moon, would have been zf. Kinderhook 4' 46" instead
fif 4' 37", as it was observed. Supposing the vduration of total
obscurity to have been 4' 46",
The difference of semidiameters would be augmented. 1" 89
Difference by the above mean . ... 39 07
Difference of stmidiameters reckoned from the most prominent points of the } 40 67
Digitized by
Google
298 FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE
By the duration between the beginning aridend of the eclipse, at Kinderhoofc
we find the sum of the horiz. semid. reduced to the time of the conjunc 32* 03w 3d
If we suppose that the true duration was greater than what was. ob* :
served, by 4~ which appears very probable, we shall have. . . 32 09 17
By the observation at Natchez, supposing the beginning 4" before *> qo no rw*
it was perceived by Mr. Dunbar. . * . . . J • J<* w W
Sum of the horiz. semidiam. in conjunction by a mean of the observations 32 09 08
Comparing these sums and differences of semidiameters with the tables
we find die correction of the semidiameter of the 3>. . — 1~ 93
Idem. . ♦ • • • • ©• • —1 87
The occultation of Spica Virginia, May 24thf 1801, was
observed in all Europe, the observations most to be confided in-
and the most proper to determine the diameter of the moon
are the following.
a i m
At the National Observatory at Paris by M. Mechain. £ ^Me^ **? * £ J| ^ *
urn:**** ftMwwti $ lm' Meantime., • 9 05 28 9
Mihtary School | Em # . . 10 16 24 2
Royal observatory in the island of Leon. | ££ Mc™ *"* / } jg Jf . J
Making use of the elements of the new tables, I find
Conjunction in Paris (National Observatory) mean time » 10*» 02' 47" 7
Island of Leon (Royal Observatory) . 9 28 37 0
Difference of meridians. • * . 00 34 10 7
Difference of latitudes in conjunction by the observations') --# -ft«, -
in the island of Leon $ # * 91 19 5
Correction of the semidiameters of the 2) by the observations of ^
M. Mechain, combined with the difference of latitudes observ- > ■■— 2 0
ed in the island of Leon. 3
By the observations in the Military School. — 1 65
Mean correction. -*- 1 82
I have also calculated the annular eclipse, April 1st, 1164,
by the new tables, and have deduced
Correction of the semidiameter of the $ -»— » 1" 35
Idem 0 — 2 15
Recapitulation of the different results.
Correction of the diameters.
©. 3.
By total eclipse 1806 1" 87 . * 1" 93
Annular eclipse 1764. . • . . . 2 15 • . 1 35
Occultation of Spica Virginia above. ' 1 82
Passage of Mercury page 232. . • 1 50
Mean correction 1 84 •• 1 70
Semidiameter of the 0in apogee by the tables* • • . 15* 45" 59 *
Correction by the above observations* • • • 1 84
Semidiameter of the 0 in apogee. * . . . 15 43 66
Therefore diameter of the 0 in apogee* • • • 31 27 32
Digitized by
Google
' ECLIPSE OP THfc SUN, JUNE 16/ 1806, , 299
Semidiameter corresponding to the constant lunar parallax of the tables. 15' 33" 69
Correction. . 1 70
Constant semidiameter of the 3> . . . . . . 15 31 99
'therefore constant diameter of the 2) . . . . . . . 31 03 98
From this statement, it will appear, that the semidiameter
of the moon, ascertained in the occultations, may vary 2" on
account of the irregularities of the disk of the moon; it may
be further remarked, that the periodical variations of the pa-
rallax of the moon, by the new tables, are those which Mayer
found by his theory, and which differ from the coefficients
determined by Laplace. According to the calculations of
Mr. Burckhardt, the sum of the periodical differences of
the two authors above mentioned, may, under very extra-
ordinary circumstances, amount to 7". — In this case the un-
certainty of the semidiameter of the moon would be 1" 9.
In the explanation of these tables, it is maintained that M,
Burg has diminished the diameter of the moon by 2", but it
is easy to see that the diameter of the moon by these tables,
is the same as has been determined by M. De Lalande. For the
proportion pf the horizontal equatorial parallax of the moon,
and the horizontal diameter of the moon according to Burg,
is 60: 32' 45" 1.
According to De Lalande, the proportion between the hori-
zontal parallax at Paris and the horizontal diameter of the moon,
€0 : 32' 46" €, vide the tables of the third edition of his
astronomy, printed in 1797, page 77.
According to Burg, the constant equatorial parallax. . . m*57' 01" 0
De Lalande, for Paris «b56 58 3
And although the constant parallax of De Lalande referred
to the equator differs nearly 4", nevertheless, the constant se-
midiameters are the same.
From the above data, the horizontal diameter of the moon
corresponding to the constant parallax for Paris, will be,
accordingtoDeLalande^32' 46" 6**6' 58 ' 3-S4' 07" 35
Burg. . -32'41"'^7'0l"0.3l"0T-39
which proves that the results are sensibly the same.
Digitized by
Google
( 300 )
No. XLVIII.
*
Observations on the Eclipse of 16 June, 1800, made by Simeon
De Witt Esq. of Albany, State of New-Fork, addressed to
Beryamin Rush AL D. to be by him communicated to the Ame-
rican Philosophical Society.
Read May 1807.
Albany, April 25thw 1807.
DEAR SIR,
WITH this I send you for the American Philosophical
Society, a painting, intended to represent the central eclipse of
the sun on the 16th of last June. It is executed by Mr. Ezra
Ames, an eminent portrait painter of this place, and gives, I
believe, as true a representation of that grand and beautiful
phenomenon, as can be artificially expressed. The edge of
the moon was strongly illuminated, and had the brilliancy of
polished silver. No common colours could express this; I
therefore directed it to be attempted as you will see, by a rais-
ed silvered rim, which in a proper light, produces tolerably
well, the intended effect*.
As no verbal description can give any thing like a true idea
of this sublime spectacle, with tyhich man is so rarely grati-
fied, I thought this painting would not be an unwelcome pre-
sent to the Society, or an improper article to be preserved among
its collection of subjects for philosophical speculation. But, in
order to have a proper conception of what is intended to be re-
presented, you must transfer your ideas to the heavens, and
imagine, at the departure of the last ray of the sun, in its re-
treat behind the moon, an awful gloom immediately diffused
over the face of nature; and round a dark circle, near the ze-
nith, an immense radiated glory, like a new creation, in a mo-
ment bursting on the sight, and for several minutes fixing the
gaze of man in silent amazement.
* This painting is deposited in the Hall of the Society, and strongly resembles the
drawing made by Mr. Ferrer, 15 miles below Albany, winch is represented in PL VI. Fig. 1.
Digitized by
Google
ECLIPSE OP THE SUN,. JUNE 16, 1806. Stfl
The luminous circle on the edge of the moon, as well as (he
rays 'which were darted from her, were remarkably pale, and
had that bluish tint, which distinguishes the colour of quick-
silver from a dead white.
I attempted to make observations on the different stages of the
eclipse, but for the want of a meridian, and glasses of sufficient
powers, I am sorry I could not make therti with the accuracy I
wished. I however send them as they are, — they may possibly
be of some use among the collections from other quarters. I
have also taken some pains to ascertain the extent of the moon's
shadow, in a northerly and southerly direction. The best in-
formation I have obtained is from Judge Thorn of the County
of Washington, who assures me that the northern edge of the
shadow passed nearly along the south bounds of Campbell's
patent in the town of Granville, which o/i my map of the
State, lies in latitude 43° 22' and longitude 0° 45' east of the
meridian of New- York; and from Johannes Miller Esq. of the
county of Orange, who determined the southern edge of the
shadow in the town of Montgomery, to have crossed the road
leading from Ward's bridge to Goshen, three miles and five
chains, counted from the bridge. This will be in latitude of
about 41° SO' and longitude 0° 14' west from the meridian of
New- York. The middle of a straight line between those two
points, falls on Hudson's river, in latitude 42° 26' which is
near the village of New-Baltimore, at which place, therefore,
the centre of the shadow must have passed, that is about fifteen
miles below this city.
The following observations on the eclipse of the sun, June
16th, 1806, were made in the city of Albany, in latitude
42° 38' 42", longitude 73° 47' west from Greenwich. The
latitude has been ascertained by a series of observations on stars
near the zenith, chiefly a Lyra and Capclla, with a sector made
for me by the late David Rittenhouse. The longitude I com-
puted by taking 75° 09' for Philadelphia, and deducting 1° 22'
for the difference between Philadelphia and Albany. This
difference is deduced from surveys connecting the two places.
I regi^lated my clock by observations of equal altitudes of the
sun, taken with one of Ramsden's best brass sextants, furnish-
Digitized by
Google
502 FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE ECLIPSE &C;
ed with a small telescope. Four of these observations were
made on the 14th# one on the 16th, and three on the 17th.
In observing the eclipse, I used the achromatic telescope of
my sector already mentioned, its magnifying power is about
SO, The commencement of total obscuration is mostly to be
depended on. Before the re-appearance of the sun, I lost it
out of the field of the telescope, and I unfortunately omitted
to remove the dark glass; I therefore noted the end of total ob-
scuration, only by the naked eye, and of course cannot so
much depend on it. It is probably taken spme seconds too late.
The arrival and departure of the penumbra, were taken tolera-
bly accurate. The air was uncommonly serene, and afforded
the finest opportunity foi observations.
htm
Commencement of the eclipse, A. M. Apparent time. - . 9 50 12
Commencement of total obscuration. 11 8 06
End of ditto 11 12 57
End of the eclipse 12 33 08
Duration of total obscuration. . 4 51
Duration of the eclipse 2 42 56
I intended to have forwarded this last fall, as soon as I could
get the painting done, but the navigation of our river being
obstructed earlier than usual, my intentions were defeated. -
lam, with great regard
Your obedient humble Servant,
S. DE WITT.
Doctor Benjamin Rush.
The following errata have been found in the communications of J. J. De Ferrer in this
Volume-—
Page 163, line 31. Cayo Sta. Maria. Lat. for 23° 12* 00" read 22° 39' 24'i
164, last line, for TenerifFe, read In the Azores.
224, line 4. for Idem of the secular equation » 54" 96 read
Idem of the secular motion — *— 54 96
226, line 11. for 5»» 35' 48" read 5»» 35' 38"
11. for 6 09 56 read 6 09 46
11. for 6 0 36 read 6 00 26 i
228, line 48. for y-n , E _. X a-15,8072 read
E+i. tang. ©
£—1. tans
.Xa—15,8072
228, line 51. for n' — 1 v a'— 8,3865 read
E'— 1' tang. ©' ~
n' — - v a'-8,3865
E'-M'tang.©' *
232, line 32. for apparent elongation at the ingress 934" 416 read 934" 43?
Digitized by
Google
{ 305 )
No. XUX.
Description and use of a new and simple Nautical Chart, far work-
ing the different problems in Navigation; with examples of its
application according to Mereator's Sailing, and sailing by the
Arc of a Great Circle; with a demonstration qfits principles;
By John Gqrnett, of New Brunswick, New Jersey,
uSegnius irritant animos demtssa per our em,
" S^Am ouot sunt oaths subjectafdelibus, et quae
" Jjftse sili tradit spectator.*
(fcp To the Author of this Communication an Extra-Magellanic Pre-
mium of a Gold medal was awarded by the Society*
Read August 25th, 180T.
THIS Chart is a partial projection of a portion of a spher*
ical or spheroidal surface, containing in length the different de-
grees of latitude, and in breadth as many of longitude as are
found necessary. The parallels of latitude are projected into
right lines, parallel and equidistant to each other, (the reason of
which will plainly appear in the demonstration of the principle
at the end;) and are divided into degrees of longitude by a scale
of equal parts, according to the length of each degree at
different latitudes, either in the sphere or spheroid, or by Ta-
ble T of the Requisite Tables.* — Through these divisions the
different meridians are drawn <jr engraved, on both sides the
Central Meridian, which is always a right line. — Fide chart.
The Index (which is separate) contains all the courses in
the quadrant of a circle, both in degrees, and quarter points,
and also the distance sailed as far as necessary; in using it, the
chief attention requisite is to place the center C qf the quadrant
on that point in any given parallel qf latitude, from which the
distance sailed shall subtend nearlyf an equal difference of
longitude on each side the Central Meridian or middle line of
• Garnett's Requisite Tablet.
f It is not necessary that it should be exactly so, as the beginning of the distance, or
Center Cf had better be placed on an engraved meridian, so that the difference of longitude
«aay be seen at erne yifw at the other extremity of the distance.
E
Digitized by
Google
304 DESCRIPTION 09 OAftNBTT'S
the Chart, and that the given parallel of latitude shall cut the
course on the Index, either in degrees or points of the com*
pass; extending naturally towards the North or South as the
course directs, but indifferently whether to the right or lefit
as either may occasionally represent the East or West (the
difference* of longitude being equal on either side,) so that the
centre C of the Index must be placed on the right hand of the
centre of the Chart, when the course is towards the equator, and
on the left Iiand when from it, as will readily appear in the
practice.
The solutions of all the cases being on a more correct prin-
ciple than the common method by middle latitude, will be found
more accurate — particularly where the difference of latitude
is great.
Should the distance exceed the extent of the Index, or the
whole difference of longitude on the Chart, the work must be
repeated from the last found latitude, until the difference of
longitude and latitude corresponding to the whole distance
is obtained.
The following examples of the different Cases of Sailing by
this Chart, will make its use sufficiently easy.
CASE I.
Given the Latitudes and Longitudes of two places; to find the
Course and Distance between tftem.
EXAMPLE.
Suppose the Latitudes of the two places to be 49° 10' N.
and 53° 30' N. respectively, and their difference of Longitude
6° 10'.; required the course and distance between them.
1st. Lay the centre C of the Indfex on the meridian which
is about half the given difference of longitude, or 3 degrees on
the left side of the Central Meridian, and in the parallel of lati-
tude 49° 10'. ^
2nd. Extend the distance line of the Index to the parallel
of 53° 20' of latitude, on the meridian of 3° 10' diff. of long,
at the right side of the Central Meridian, — and the distance
Digitized by
Google
NAVIGATION CHART, &C. $05
found on the Index will be 340 miles ; — and the course cross-
ed by the parallel of latitude, will be N. 42 3-4 degrees, ei-
ther East or West ; according as the latter place is Eastward or
Westward of the former. Q. E. I.
N. B. When the differences of latitude and longitude are
great, as it often happens in this Case, the course and distance
may be found sufficiently accurate for practice on the general
Chart of this projection. But in Great Circle Sailing the angles
of position should be found by Spherical Trigonometry.
CASE II.
Given one Latitude, Course and Distance, to find the other
Latitude, and difference qf Longitude.
EXAMPLE.
A ship from latitude 52° 10' N. and longitude 35° & West,
sails N. W. b. W. 229 miles; required the latitude and lon-
gitude arrived at.
1st. Lay the centre C of the Index (tothe left side) oi^ the
parallel of latitude 50° 10' and turn it about until the parallel
passes through the 5 point course; then slide it on the paral-
lel until the distance 229 miles subtends nearly an equal dif-
ference of longitude on each side the Central Meridian; which
will be found 2° 40' on each side, or 5° 20' diff. of longitude,
when the distance will also reach the parallel of latitude 54° 17';
for the latitude arrived at. Q. E. I.
CASE III.
Given both Latitudes and the Course; to find the Distance, and
Difference of Longitude.
EXAMPLE.
A ship sails N. E. b. E. from latitude 42° 25' N. and lon-
gitude 15° & W. and then finds by observation she is in lati-
tude 46° 20' N. ; required the distance, and present longitude.
Digitized by
y Google
906. DESCRIPTION OP OAKVMm'S
. N. B. If the distance extend beyond the Chart, which can
seldom happen in practice, it will require two operations as in
this, instance. (Qr it kuqt be performed at once on the general
Chart.)
lsjU Set the center C of the Index on the left side of the Cen-
tral Meridian (because sailing, from the Equator) to 2° SO* diff,
of longitude* and on the given parallel of latitude 4Sf 25'.
2nd, Extend the distance line on a 5 pok»t course, to 2° 30'
diff. of longitude on the right hand of the Central Meridian, and
the first latitude will be found 44° 48' N. diff. of longitude 5*
East; and distance 258 miles; which write down as under, for
the first operation. Then set the Index C to the last found
latitude* and the distance line on a 5 point course will extend
from 1° 40' diff. longitude on each side, to the given latitude
of 46° 20', and measure 167 miles; which added as under to
the first found distance and difference of longitude, gives the
whole distance and difference of longitude.
Lat. sailed from 42° 25' longit. 15° & W. course N. £pts. E.
To latit. 44 48 diff. long. 5 0 E. distance 258 miles,
To latit. 46 20 diff. long. 3 20 E. distance 167 miles.
Gives the required diff. longitude 8° 20' E and dist. 425 miles.
CASE IV.
Given the Latitudes qf two Places, and the Distance between than
to find the Course and Difference of Longitude.
EXAMPLE.
A ship from St. Alban's Head, in latitude 50° 35' N. and
longitude 2° 5' W. sailed 171 miles upon a direct course be-
tween the S. and W». and by observation is found to be in lati-
tude 48° 2& N. required, the course steered, and longitude
come to?
1st* Set die center C of the Index on the given parallel of
latitude 50° 35' (on the right hand, because sailing towards the
Equator), and turn the distance line until the given distance 171
Digitized by
Google
NAVIGATION CHART, &C, SOT
miles falls on the parallel of 48° 2€fP extended equathf on each side
the central tme; when the course will be found S. 41° W. and
the difference of longitude 2° 50'. Q. E. I.
CASE V.
Given one Latitude, Course, and Difference of Longitude, to
find the other Longitude, and distance.
EXAMPLE.
A- ship from latitude 47* SO' N. sails S. 51° W. and then
finds her difference of longitude by observation to be 9° 40'
W. required the distanee run, and the latitude come to ?
N. B. As this difference of longitude exceeds the extent
of the chart; k requires, (unless performed by the general
Chart,) a double operation.
1st. Set the index C on the given parallel of 47° 30' at the
rigid hand of the Central Meridian, (sailing towards the Equa-
tor) and the given course 5 1° will give the distance 264 miles,
. and latitude 44° 44' at 5° difference of longitude; (2° 30' on
each side of the central meridian.)
2nd. Serthe Index on the last found parallel of latitude 44°
44', and to the same course; when the distance corresponding
to 4° 40' (the remainder of the difference of longitude) setting
2° 20' on each side the central meridian, will give a farther
distance of 265 miles, making the whole distance 529 miles,
and the latitude come to 41° 57'. Q* E. I.
♦ CASE VL
Given one Latitude, Distance and Difference of Longitude, to
find the other Latitude and Course.
EXAMPLE.
A ship sails from, the latitude of 50* 20' N. between the
North and East, 30Q miles, and finds by a chronometer her
* This is Dr. Hsiley's celebrated problem. See Baron Masseres' "Scriptores Loga-
rithmici." vol 4th. It may be seen on the general chart) that thit problem will tometimes ad-
mit of tvto antwer*.
Digitized by
Google
308 DESCRIPTION OF GAEKETT'S
difference of longitude to be 6° 0' requited the latitude arrived
at, and the course the vessel has steered ?
1st, Place the Index to the given latitude, and on the left
hand on 3 degrees, (the half of the given difference of longi-
tude) and extend the given distance 300 miles, to 3° differ-
ence of longitude on the right hand; then the latitude arrived at
will be found 53° 45' N. and the course N. 47° E. Q. E. L
CASE VII.
Given the Course, Distance, and Difference of Longitude, te
find both Latitudes.
RULE.
Place the Index on any parallel of latitude to the required
course, and if the given distance subtend a less difference of
longitude that the given, (always making an equal difference
of longitude on both sides the central meridian) move it upwards
to a higher latitude, or if it subtend a greater difference of longi-
tude, move it downwards to a lower latitude until the distance
stibtend the given difference of longitude, and the required
latitudes will be found.
N. B. When the course is on the meridian, this case is in-
determinate, and the nearer to the meridian, the less accurate
will be the solution.
CASE VIII.
Given the Course, Difference of Latitude, and Difference of
Longitude, to find both Latitudes.
This case is similar to case 7th. using the difference of lati-
tude instead of the distance, which is always known when the
course and difference of latitude are given.
N. B. This CASE like the LAST is also indeterminate
when the course is on the meridian, and less accurate when
near it.
Digitized by
Google
NAVIGATION CHART, kc. 3<K>
CASE IX.
Given the Distance, Difference of Latitude, and Difference of
Longitude, to find tlie Course and both Latitudes
RULE.
Make the distance on the Index subtend the difference of lati-
tude. N. or S. between any parallels of latitude, and the Course
will be found; and if the difference of longitude on the Chart
exceed that given, move the Index to a less latitude : or if it
be too little, to a greater latitude, until the given differences
of longitudes and latitudes are subtended by the given dist-
ance; when both latitudes will be known. Q. E. I.
N. B. This case is indeterminate in the same circumstance,
as are the cases 7 and 8, Which are only given, to shew that
every case can be readily solved by this Chart; but the three
last cases can seldom be of use in practicfe.
To demonstrate the principles on which this Chart is con-
structed, and to shew its application to Sailing by the Arc of a
Great Circle.
Let A, B, be two places on the Chart, whose E B
difference of longitude is equally divided by the
central meridian E D which is the part of it be-
tween the two latitudes; draw the line A B; and
D F parallel to it; also the parallels of latitude E F,
A D; then E F = E B + A D; but E B an4 A D
by the construction of the Chart are = the cosines A D
of their respective latitudes X by half the difference of longitude
between A and B; and therefore E F = half the sum (f the co-
sines x by the difference of longitude.
In the right angled triangle E D F, E F: tangent E D F : :
E D : radius. Or half the sum of the cosines of the latitudes : tan-
gent of the course :: difference oj latitude: the difference of longitude,
which is a well known theorem in navigation ; half the sum of
the cosines of the two latitudes being generally* more accurate
than the cosine of the middle latitude commonly used. Q. E. D.
* The exceptions are of no consequence in practice. See Emerson's Navigation, Page 71.
Digitized by
Google
310
DESCRIPTION OF GAINETT'S
The principles of the Chart* together with the application to
sailing by the Arc of a Great Circle, can also be deduced from
Hie following propositions.
PROPOSITION I.
The angle of convergence, or inclination of two meridians to
each other, at any given latitude, is = the difference of longitude
X by the sine qf the latitude.
Let P A, P B, be two meridians, on which let a, b9 be two
places in the same latitude; draw the two tangents a T, AT,
meeting the axis CPT in T, and ac, be, perpendiculars to it;
also cd,Td perpendiculars to a b, and draw a
C to the center C; then will the angle a T b
represent the inclination of the meridians P a,
P b, to each other at the points a and b.
From the right angled triangles a d*T, adc
and the similar triangles a c T, a c C.
a T : rad.:: a d : sine -J- inclination of merid.
and rad.: a c :: sine (dc a =) i diff. of Ion. : a d.
By composition, (a T : a c=) aC:Cc:: sine f
difference of longitude : sine t the inclination of meridians;
that is, radius : sine of the latitude :: sine t difference if longitude :
si?ie t the inclination of meridians. Or taking the arcs themselves
for their sines, which is sufficiently accurate in small arcs, and
agrees with the construction of the Chart; the angle of converg-
ence of any two meridians at a given latitude, is = to the sine of the
latitude x by the difference of longitude* Q. E. D.
REMARK.
If the meridians be considered as great circles of the sphere,
and their inclination to the central meridian (or that which
bisects the angle at the Pole) as the complement of the angle
made by a great circle passing through them at any given lati-
tude, then in the spher. triangle Pad we have rad.: cosine
Pa:: tang. aP d: cotan. Pad; that is, rod.: sine of the latitude::
tangent of half the difference of longitude : tangent oj the mclmatio/i
to the central meridian; which seems more correct.
See the Table of the Inclination tf Meridians, deduced from thit Proposition.
Digitized by
Google
in
NAVIGATION CHART, &ۥ 311
PROPOSITION II.
The Angle of Position at the middle longitude between
two places is very nearly equal to the loxodromic angle or course
between them ; and differs at each place from the loxodromic
course, by the inclination of the meridian at each place to the
central meridian.
Let a, b, be two places on the arc of a great
circle, extended into a right line which is
crossed by the central meridian T d9 and the
meridians T a, I b, at their respective angles
of position, then the angles a'i d, d I b will
be the inclination of the meridians at a and b,
to the central meridian, respectively. Draw
T t, dt perpendiculars ton T, ab, and draw
a t; then because the loxodromic course, cuts
the meridians at equal angles, the course near
a, may be considered as a portion of the logarithmic spiral ;
by the known property of which, t a, will be the radius of
curvature at the point a, and n a perpendicular to t a, its tang-
ent, making the angle d a n=d t a=dT a, (being on the same
segment a dof the circle passing through a d t T;) and there-
fore, the exterior angle T d b is=T a d+(d T *==) da »=T a n9
the course; and the course must be parallel to ab wherever it cros-
ses the central meridian T d, otherwise it cannot make an angle
with it=T a n.
In the same manner I b m may be proved =rf b I+d 1 b
«I d a. Q. £. D.
SCHOLIUM.
From these propositions may be deduced an easy practical
method of Sailing by the Ate of a Great Circle, by means of a
SPECIAL CHART, on a coiivenientscale,of the intended tract,
constructed in the following manner. (See the Chart,)
Having calculated by spherical trigonometry, as in the foU
lowing example, the angles of position b a T, a b I, the dis-
tance a b9 and also the latitude of the point d at the middle
longitude; draw on a sheet of paper from: a moderate scale
s
Digitized by
Google
tH 2 DESCRIPTION OF GARNETT'S
the line a b equal to the distance ; and cross it at the extremi-
ties a, b9 by the lines a T, b I ; forming the angles of position
at those points baT,abl, continued on both sides of a b. The
latitude of the places a and b, being given, set off from the
same scale of equal parts, a sufficient number of degrees of
latitudes on the lines a T, and b I produced so that some com-
mon latitude shall be on both those lines, (as the latitude of
45° on the annexed special chart) and a perpendicular d T, to
the middle of two points of the common latitude on the lines
a T, bl will be the CENTRAL MERIDIAN, or that which
passes through the middle longitude of the chart ; and as the
latitude of the point d has been found, the degrees of latitude
can also be marked on the line T d produced on both sides of
a b. Then the parallels of latitude will be very nearly repre-
sented by circles passing through the three points of each de-
gree on the three lines a T, d T, b I, produced on both sides
of a b; and dividing the extreme parallels into as many parts
as there are five degrees of longitude between the two places ;
the several meridians can be drawn, shewing the angles of po-
sition at every five degrees of longitude, and having the same
appearance as on the globe. On this SPECIAL CHART the
ship's place can be marked, whenever a good observation of the
latitude and longitude is taken, and a new direct course on a
great circle to the intended port readily seen, with the angles
of position ; and the course which will meet the same great
circle, after sailing 5° of longitude, can be found from the
Table in page 315, by adding half the inclination of the me-
ridians at 5 degrees difference of longitude, to the angle of po-
sition ; (the loxodromic course being always between the great circle,
and the equator) or by taking as a course, the angle of position
on the special chart at 2 4- degrees of longitude farther onwards
than the longitude of the ship; which course will serve for
sailing the distance corresponding to 5° difference of longitude,
(which distance can readily be found by the chart) after which
the course must be altered either by adding the whole inebriation
of the meridians for 5° corresponding to the new latitude, or
again taking the angle of position at 24. degrees of longitude
farther on, as before, which method can be continued at plea-
sure.
Digitize^ by
Google
NAVIGATION CHART, &C. * 3 IS
But whenever the ship is driven out of her intended course,
or her latitude and longitude has been determined more cor-
rectly by astronomical observations, the course must be again
adjusted, either by drawing a new distance-line on the Special
Chart, which will shew the new angle of position to the in-
tended port sufficiently correct, or calculated by case seven of
Spherical Trigonometry, where two sides (the co-latitudes or
polar distances of the two points) and the included angle (dif-
ference of longitude) are given ; as in the following example.
Which is also necessary to shew in what manner a Special Chart
is constructed, being considered as part of a great circle, con-
taining in length the distance of the two places, with a few
contiguous degrees in breadth on each side, straightened into a
plane superficies or parallelogram ; the meridians crossing the
great circle at every five degrees of longitude, and shewing the
different angles of position*
EXAMPLE.
Suppose it was intended to sail from the latitude of 40° N.
and longitude 65° W. by the arc of a gieat circle, to the latitude
of 49° 26' N. and longitude of 5° W. making the nearest
course to the Lizard from the above place ; and to construct a
Special chart in order to lay down the ships track. Required
the angles of position, nearest distance, and the courses that will
meet the great circle, at every five degrees difference of longi-
tude ?
To find the Angles qf Position.
^torPoKs8tS#M (N.B.ThesetwoP.di^.m«rtlWfit«ith<r««eP0le:)
Asi the sum of P. dist». (x) 45 17 log- sine 9.851622 log* cos. 9.847327
: i the difference of ditto. 4 43 log. sine 8.915022 log. cos. 9 998527
::| the diff. of longitude 30 0 log. cot- 0-238561 log. cot 0.238561
♦K.,ftWMnm,d;nir,«.« 5U *° log. tang. 93D1961 log. tan. 0.389761
: the corresponding arcs J6r 49 (tSkc the supplement of tfis if x exceeds 90-.)
Sum of corresponding arcs 79 9— Angle of Position at the greater latitude*
Difference of ditto 56 29»An£c of Position at the less latitude.
Digitized by
Google
$14 DESCRIPTION OF OAKKpTT'g
To find the Distance,
As either angle of position »s 79° 9' log. sine. 9.992166
: its opposite polar distance 50 0 log. sine. 9 884264
: the difference ofiongitude 60 0 log. sine. 9-937531
: nearest distance 42° 29^—2549 miles log. sine. 9.829619
To find the Latitude at the middle Longitude.
Latitude 40° 0* nat tang. 0839100 (N. B. Should no table of nat taag.
Latitude 49- 26 nat, tang. 1.168095 be at hand, take the numbeft if
■ the log. tangents.)
Sum of natural tangents* 2.007195
Half sunvof ditto* 1.003597 log. 0 001558
Half the diff. of longitude 30° subtr. log. cos. 9.937531
Gives the lat. at the middle long, or central mer. 49° 12'J tang. 0.064027
So,that the angles of position T a b, I b a are 79 9 *and 56° 29'
The distance a b . • . . .42 29«-2549 miles
The latitude of </, at the middle longitude 49 12J
From which data the Special Cfiart has been constructed accord-
ing to the directions given in the Scholium, and the first course as
far as 5° difference of longitude is found by adding 96'= 1° 3&,
(half the angle of the inclination of the meridians in the lati-
tude 40° by the Table in page 3 15) to the angle of position 56°
29'; making N. 58° 5' E. for the course from the longitude of
65° W. to 60° W. or if the course had been taken from the
angle of position in the special chart at the longitude of 6L2±9
it would oe the same, according to* Prop. 2d. and perhaps this
last is as simple a rule as can be given, for it appears to be a
useless labour to calculate all the angles of position by Spheri-
cal Trigonometry, as different accidents may make the ship
occasionally deviate from thl intended calculated track, and
a Special Cfiart will always shew the courses to sufficient exact-
ness, if the ship were even to deviate 5 degrees of latitude on
either side of the first intended track or great circle.
In the same manner a SPECIAL CHART can be construct-
ed for any other track, by means of which it is easy to sail from
any part on the globe to any other, the shortest way possible,
supposing there are no intervening obstructions, or local reasotfs
for taking a different course; the Special Chart being an exten-
sion of that part of the globe through. which the track lies, all
the bearings and distances are truly represented.
Digitized by
Google
KAVIGATION CHART, &C.
315
Should any intelligent navigator be inclined to try this me-
thod of sailing by the Navigation Chart or by the Arc of a great
Circle, he will find these directions sufficiently correct for prac-
tice, always depending on ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVA-
TIONS-to correct his reckoning; and as the very great im-
provements lately made and almost universally adopted in the
astronomical part of navigation, seem to require some corres-
ponding improvements in the other parts ; this attempt, the au-
thor hopes will be candidly examined.
The Loxodromic Chart from the latitude of 15° to 55° will'
serve where the distances greatly exceed the limits of the lesser
charts, they being on a much larger scale— every 10 miles of
the latter making a degree on the former, so that the same in-
dex will serve, reckoning 10 degrees for every 100 miles; and
all the problems solved by Mercator's Chart, can be more rea-
dily and simply solved by the general Loxodromic Chart.
The following table, shewing the inclination of the meridi-
ans in minutes and tenths, corresponding to 5 degrees differ-
ence of longitude for every degree of latitude, is readily con-
structed by means of a Traverse table ; using the latitude as a
course, and against 300' (the minutes in 5°) as a distance, the
inclination of the meridians, as under, will be found in the
column of departure.
Table of the Inclination of Meridians in Minutes and Tenths, at
every Degree of Latitude Jor 5° Difference of Longitude.
Lat.
in* mar.
Lac.
In. mer .
Lat.
in. mer*
Lac.
in. mer.
Lat.
in. mer.
Lai.
in. mer.
o
*
o
t
o
/
o
/ O 1 /
o
»
1
5.2
13
67.5
25
126.8
37
1805
49 226.4
60
259.8
2
10.5
14
72.6
26
131.5
38
184.7
50 1 229.8
61
2624
3
15.7
15
77.6
27
136.2
39
188.8
51
233.1
62
264.9
4
20.9
16
82.7
28
140.8
40
192.8
52
236.4
63
267.3
5
26.1
17
87.7
29
145.4
41
196.8
53
239.6
64
269.6
6
31.4
18
92.7
30
1500
42
200.7
54
242.7
65
2719
7
36.6
19
97.7
31
15*5
43
204.6
55
245.7
70
281.9
8
41.8
20
102.6
32
159.0
44
208.4
56
248.7
75
289.8
9
46.9
21
107.5
33
163.4
45
212.1
57
2516
80
295.4
10
52.1
22
112.4
34
167.8
46
215.8
58
2544
85
298.9
1J«
57.2
23
117.2
35
172.1
47
219.4
59
257.2
90
300.0
12'
62 4
24
122.0
36
176.3
48
222.9
REMARK.
R appears that a general chart on this projection has all the valuable pro-
perties of Mercator's Chart; the rhumb lines and distances being right lines;
Digitized by
Google
316
DESCRIPTION OF GARNETT'S
in other respects it is superior, as equal surfaces on the globe are represent-
ed by equal areas on the chart, ana all distances are measured oy the same
scale of equal parts. It has also the advantage of shewing both the loxodro-
mic course, and the angles of position (thai is the angles made by the dif-
ferent meridians with the great circle passing through any two places : J the
first being measured by the complement of the angle Jormed by the parallels of
latitude and line of distance, the latter very nearly by the different meridians
and line of distance; and in the great simplicity oj its construction it seems
nlso to merit the preference.
The Chart might also be enlarged so as to give any required accuracy in
the solutions; but as no greater accuracy can be expected tn any estimation,
of a ship's course and distance by the log-line and compass, (the chief de-
pendence being on astronomical observations, for longitude as well as latitude }
it would be useless*
iViR. Emerson, in page 52 of his Geography, has also given this pro-
jection, as useful for maps; but its properties, and great use in practical
navigation, have not, I believe, been hitherto investigated.
005
r§
TABLE I, shewing the correction in minutes and tenths, to be added
to the Middle Latitude, in Middle Latitude Sailing.
Argument. LESSER LAT*tTU©E.
0°
>5°
10*
15°
20*
25°
3U6
35° t 40°
45°
50°
55*
60Q
65*
6
1
6.7
0.8
0.1
0.1
0.2
' 0.2
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.1
»
0.2
05
1
05
2
9.1
1.8
0.9
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.7
0-9
3
13 9
35
2.1
1.6
1.3
15
1.1
1.1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.5
1.7
2.0
4
18.5
5.9
3.6
%i
2.3
2.1
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.1
2.4
26
3.0
3.6
5
233
8.5
5.4
4.1
3.5
3.2
3.1
3.1
3.2
34
3.7
4.1
4.8
5.7
, 6
280
11.5
7^5
5.8
5.0
4.6
4.5
4.5. 4.6
4.9
5.4
6X)
7.0
8.4
7
32 9
14.8
9.9
7.8
6.8
6.3
6.1
6.1 j 6.3
6.7
74
S3
97
11.8
8
37.6
1&2
12.5
10.0
8.7
81
8.0
8.01 8.3
8.8
9.8
1U)
12$
15.8
9
42.3
21.9
15.4
124
11.0
10.2
10.0
lO.i; 10.5
113
12.5
14 2
16.6
J0-5
10
47.0
25.7
18.4
15.1
134
12 6
12.3
12.5 ! 131
141
is*
17.7
20.9
264
U
518
29.8
21.7
18.0
16.1
15.2
14.9
152 16.0
17.2
lj 1
218
2^.9
32.4
12
56.7
34.0
25.2
211
190
lao
17 8
18.2 ; 191
20.7
23-0
264
315
89.7
13
616
38.3
289
244
22.1
21.1
20.9
214 ! 22.6
245
27.4
315
378
48.1 *
14
66.6
42.8
32.7
27.9
25.4
24.4
24.4
25.0 26.4
28.8
322
37.2
45.0
578
15
71.6
473
36.7
316
28.9
27.9
279
28.8 30.6
334
375
43.6
53.0
68.8 '
20
976
72.0
59.5
53.1
50.1
49.3
5u2
52.7 1 56.9
63.1
72.4
86.5
25
125.5
99.7
86.5
79.8
77.2
77.5
80.3
85.7 94.1
106.6
30
155.9
131.2
1481
1121
110.8
1134
119.6
129.9 ,145.5
35
189.4
165.5
154.9
150.7
152.2
1587
lr0 5
188.9 1
40
2269
206.8
197.9
197.0
202.9
2157
236.6
.
45
269.2
2531
248.4
252.7
265.7
288.4
CONSTRUCTION.
50
317.7
307.0
3084
320.6
344.5
3837
Log. of diff. of lat.— log. of merid. dlff. Ut.-rfhe
55
373.8
4305
320.8
405.0
446.6
6000
lojr. cosine of the Mean Parallel A.
A^— middle latit-= the correction of this table. I
60
439.7
1446.6
1470.1
1513.2
1586.1
1720.2
Digitized
w Google
NAVIGATION CHART, &C.
31?
TABLE II, to calculate the exact difference between the new Lox-
0
odromic Chart and Mercator's ; which in practice is nearly insen-
*%
sible. It also shews the error in taking the arithmetic mean of
CO
the natural cosines of two latitudes for the cosine of the mean
parallel in Middle Latitude Sailing,
Argument. LESSER LATITUDE.
0°
5»
10°
15°
0
20°
1 25*
30° 1 35°^ 40°
45*
50°
53d
60°
65° .
o
»
/
/
*
$
"7
t
,
/
+
t
t
t
1
81
1.0
1.1
0.6
0.3
0.2
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.0
0.1
0.1
05
0.3
2
22.3
6.0
32
2.1
1.4
, 1.0
0.7
0.4
0.2
TIT
0.3
0.6
0.9
1.2
3
33.0
11.2
66
4.4
3.1
2.2
1.5
09
06
02
0.7
13
2.0
29
4
44.0
17j6
108
7.2
5.3
38
26
15
0.6
0.4
14
%5
37
5J3
5
55.0
"BoT
250
32T
,15*
2i:3
110
7.9
5j5
3.8
2.2
0.7
0.7
2.3
"-£5
40
6.0
6.0
8.6
15 0
16.6
7.7
5.2
2.9
08
5.9
"153*
7
77.2
40.9
272
19.3
14.0
10.0
66
3.6
0.8
2.0
5.1
&4
126
iai
8
884
49.3
33.4
24.0
17.5
124
81
4.3
06
3.1
7.1
11.5
16.1
24.5
9
99.6
56.9
39.8
28.9
21.1
150
97
5.0
04
43
9.4
155
22.4
32.2
10
109 9
667 465
34.0
TS7"
87.0
248
~444~
186
113
17.8
195
5.5
""To"
01
23.7
59
48.6
12.2
351
78.4
19.5
534
117.0
28.7
7ai
4U
ii ' 161.6
tttt
154.7
Sir
1164
50.4
20
211.7
624 j 40.4
li
25
259.4
195.0
1482
109 8
75.9
44.1
126
20.4
56.7
99.4
30
3007
230.5
174.7
126.3
81.6
36.9
T6
56.7
113.7
35 3S7.4
40 S&7.6
2596 193.7
133.9
761
17.2
46.?
1187
2802
202.9
129.2 ! 55 8
23.6
45 ;387.8
2901
199.0
108.4 13 3
92.8
The corrections on this side the black line
50
397.5
286.4
178.9
61 5 {1ST
HHT1758
205.6
must be added to the greater latitude ; those
55
393.2
365.0
133.9
5410
on the left hand side must be subtracted.
60
370.8
219.9
57.8
129.6 368.5
7306
_ C2 Nat. cos. mean parallel— nat. cos. les. lat.—nat. cos. of an angle A.
Cohitbuctiok. £ A— greater latitude—the correction of this table.
N B. This correction X by the tangent of the greatest latitude X tangent of half
the difference of longitude, is— the correction of the longitude found by the chart for any
given course and distance.
USE OF THE PRECEDING TABLES.
EXAMPLE I.
Required the Course and Distance between Cape Clear in
Ireland, in latitude 51° 18' N. and Island ot St. Mary's one of
the Azores, in latitude 37° N. difference of latitude 14° 18'=
858 miles, and their difference of longitude being 15° 10', or
910'. (See Robertson's Navig. prob. III. p. 156.)
from Table I.
Middle Latitude 44° 9*
Correction to lat. 37° and diff. of latiti. 14° 18* about 26
A* difference of latitude
Mean Parallel
858* log.
44° 35*
2.933487
log. A 2.933487
Digitized by
Google
318 DESCRIPTION OP GARNETT'S NAVIGATION CHART, &C
: Difference of longitude 910* log. 2.959041
: : Cos. of mean parallel 44° 35' log. cos. 9852620
: Tan. of Course 37° 4' log. tang. 9*878174 • 1. cos. B 9 90196?
A— B=distance - - 1074,6 miles log. 3.031520
s with the solution by Meridional Parts, or I
middle latitude not corrected, the course would have been
EXAMPLE II.
Which agrees with the solution by Meridional Parts, or logarithmic tangents ; bin by the
* 37° 16' and distance 1078 miles.
A ship from the latitude of 5 1° i 8' N. in longitude 22* C
W. sailing on a course between the S. and E. has made 564 miles
of departure, and 786 miles difference of longitude. Required
the latitude of the place arrived at? (See Robertson's Navigation,
prob. X. page 170,)
As difference of longitude 786' log 2.895423
Mean par. X 2 — 88 18
Departure - - 564' log. 2.751279 1 Subtract given lat. 51 IS
:: Radius ... . 10 000000 fl — — —
Lesser lat. ( nearly) 37 0
: Cos. Mean Parallel 44° 9' log. cos. 9.855856 H Diff.of lat (nearly) 14 18
As the approximate lesser latitude must be diminished by twice the correction in Ta-
ble 1 to obtain the true lesser latitude, assume it 36° 10', and difference of latitude 15° S*f
the correction from Table 1 will then be 3Qf {—this subtracted
from 44° 9' the mean parallel, leaves - 43° 39' for tl 5 Middle Latitude.
From the double of which - - - 87 18
Subtract the greater latitude - - . 51 18
Leaves the true lesser latitude - 36 0 differing a whole degree from
the latitude found by the common method.
These examples sufficiently shew the great use of Table I, to correct the errors of mid*
die latitude sailing ; which by this means is made equally correct, and is more simple than
Mercator's sailing by the table of meridional parts.
Table II is intended to make the Loxodromic Chart strictly accurate* although thi#
correction in practice will be found insensible. It also shews the error of taking half the
sum of the natural cosines for the cosine of the mean parallel, which has been recommend*
ed in middle latitude sailing.
This small correction of the Loxodromic Chart, by means of table II, will be easily u»»
jterstood from the following
EXAMPLE.
Suppose a ship to sail from the latitude of 20° N. to the lati-
tude of *5° N. on a course between the N. and E. and make
40° difference of longitude; required the courae and distance.
(See the Loxodromic Chafy)
By table II, the correction for 20° lesser latitude and 25° cliff, of latitudes is— rS',9,
which measure off to the parallel of 45* from the meridian of 20° (the half cbff. oiiongitade)
from a to b perpendicular to the parallel, so that a b • 75',9 ; then draw the line e b from.
the parallel of 2o* latitude to the parallel of 45°, making the half difference of longitude 90*
•n each side the central meridian (which is essential to the principle of the chart*) and it
will be the correct course and distance. The line e d represents the course and distance
^n the chart, without the tabular correction, which correction in all practical case* will be
insensible*
{. Digitized by
Google
( 319 )
No. L.
Observations to serve for the Mineralogical Map qf tfie Slate of
Maryland. By M. Godon.
Head November 6th, 180T.
ALLUVION SOIL.
All the country which extends from Baltimore bay, to the
right bank of Potomac river, where Washington city is situ-
ate, is wholly alluvial. The soil which constitutes it is, in
general, a quartzose sand, diversly coloured by iron. This sand
very frequently contains mica; aluminous earth also appears to
exist in it, in a very small proportion. It is probably to the
want of a sufficient quantity of clay in this alluvial ground,
that the remarkable barrenness of the land which stretches on
the line that I have occasionally travelled, must be attri-
buted.
At some distance under the surface of the soil, a bed of
quartzose white stones is frequently found. This bed is hori-
zontally disposed, or appears to follow the inequality of the
ground.
Immediately under this bed of flint, a stratum of a ferru-
ginous sand-stone commonly occurs, the thickness whereof
varies from six lines to one foot or more. This mineral,
the only one which is found, or which can be expected
to be found in this soil, deserves a particular examination, on
account of its importance as it regards the geology of this loca-
lity. It is most commonly compounded of quartzose grain*;
sometimes of flakes of mica. Its tenacity at times is very
great, but most frequently it is disunited with ease by the
stroke of the hammer.
It sometimes includes concretions of a strongly ferruginous
clay, analogous to those stones, which, though a variety oi iron
ore, are, vulgarly known hy the name of antes, or eagle-stone.
These concretions are almost always involved in thin Cott-
le
Google
320 godon's mineralogical observations, &a
centric strata of oxydatedirmt, {hematites) which are sometimes'
shining. Federal Hill, near Baltimore, affords on its flanks
numerous examples of this variety* When the grains of
which this sand-stone is formed are of great tenuity, they
take the ^appearance and characters tif Tripoli, and probably
may be employed for the same trees;1* such is that found on
a new road, which communicates with the Frederick road,
two miles from Baltimore. This last variety very frequent-
ly accompanies a small bed. of o^ydiafed iron, which is cel-
lular, sometimes two inehes thick ; but, most frequently, this
iron forms only a thin petticte, whiofe exhibits the eoloois ot
the irk.
This sandstone is found on the top of almost every hiU
that occurs on the road from Baltimore to Washington; it is
easily observed in the places where the soH has been washed
away by floods or cut down for public roads.
Sometimes the bed of quartzose atones has heeti itself agluti
nated by a ferruginous cement* and constitutes a sort of pud
ding-storte. This pudding-stone is often found of tire thickness
of one or two feet.
The recks of transport, which are found in this soil are* in
genera], the Amplubohc rock, (grunstein of the Germans) a
coarse quartz, and the variety of quartz designated&y Werner,
under the name of Hornstdn.
Some fossil bodies are also found in this*oil, namely, seme re-
gains of shells, and particularly a deposit of fossil wood, which
is observed in aravmeat a little distance tirora Rocfe-Creekchwrcfa.
This wood lies immediately under the ferruginous sandstone,
in which it is sometimes, as it were, enveloped, it appears that
the ligneous particles of this wood, have been wholly replaced
by siliceous earth; the parts in which were intecstices, as die
bark for example, -are xrovewd with a multitude of small crys-
tals of quartst, which ^belong to the variety primed of
Hauy.
Aft theate sarrd^stoses and fwrugkieus puddings, seem to
l»*e a common otrigm. When the limits of this stratum shall
have been observed, and the spaoe whrch it occupies shattiuwe
Digitized by
Google
bqap tjaee& we shall potbaps ha^e *)me light thrown on the
circumstwees which haye produced it; s^nd perhaps it will even
be po»&iq m form some hypothesis concerning the. origin of
this vast deposit of sand* which is observed through the fcpaco
o| 50 miles, in the direction from Nortk-East to South-West**
and which appears to be much more extensively in the direc-
tion from E^at to West
Wa&ingtouicity is bwilt on the alluvial land ; but Rock*
Creek, which separates this capital from George-town* appears
t#. preset the boundary line hetweea the primitive and the
alluvial soil,
PRIMITIVE SOIL.
The fiwt rock which presents itself must be considered as a
gmm; it? direction is nearly N, N. E. to S. S. W, Or inclining
about 30 degrees to the fiaat The substances which compose
it are qwrtz* fchpar, mka> and very often tak. The mica
and the talc have the grey colour of lead; but this last is
sometimes distinguished by the green colour of the emerald.
Besides those substances, the gneiss often contains the iodtcaks*
4r*lgwvfitf commonly in small crystals, but some are four or five
linfa in. diameter, and mkpkuretqi magnetic iron crystallised in
small cubes. This mineral sometinjes exists so abundantly
that every part of the rock is sensihle to the magnet , Con-
siderable veins of quartz run through the rock, without any
constant direction ; the veins of felspar are more rare; This
gneiss crosses the Potomac river, , and in the opposite bank of
tbia river observes the same direction, the same inclination
in the strata, and the same elements in their composition.
This rock is generally split into tabular fragments, which; are
employed in the construction of the foundation of buildings,
a&d in the liniqg of causeways. . •>, '-- *
Immediately after the gneiss, in going up the rive*, we find
the Amphibolic rocH, (grunsteia;) this rock i* not uniform in
its composition, most frequently it is an aggregate of Ampbi*
h&l (hQtobleade) aad felspar, then it is nearly decomposed ;
■ * Tfcfc primitive soil appears neir Baltimore, and it is manifest in the valley through whic£
tfc Pafca&cq fairer 9*y*> '.
Digitized by
Google
322 Oom>N*S MINBRALOGICAL OB&ERV ANIONS, &C,
but it appears to be tfnly aft intittiafe mixture »f quartz, atto-
jphibol, inica, and talc, which ghows itself by its green colours
This rock often includes the sulphureted magnetic iron* The tint
of this pyrites resembling that of copper pyrites, and light spots
even of carbonate of copper, indicate that this mineral con-
ceals a small proportion of copper. This rock, as the former,
is crossed in several directions by veins of quartz, sometimes
more than two feet thick. A distinct stratification is not ob-
served in it; it is divided into polyhedral fragments.
In -continuing up; the Potomac, at a little distance from
George-town, gneiss is again found, analogous in its nature to
that already described. I The* inclination 'of these new strata,
appears to be the same, but their direction somewhat nearer to
that of the North and South. This gneiss shows some veins of
white felspar, mixed with a. mica of a greenish white, but the
opaque white quartz, exists in numerous, and powerful veins.
This quartz is sterile in metallic substances; some signs of oxidu-
lated iron only and of magnetic pyrites are found in it. This
quartz is sometimes accompanied by the chloritk talc, and
pretty often includes the tourmalin in small acicular crystals.
Sometimes the quartz presents a large surface covered with a
crust of a fine black substance ; at fir$t sight, this matter would
be taken for manganese, but by attentive observation, it ap-
pears to be nothing more than the substance of tourmalin
itself, in a state of confused crystallization.
You go up the Potomac river to the little falls, four miles
above Washington, without finding any remarkable change in
the constitution of the gneiss. This rock also crosses the river,
and you may observe, on both the banks, the same disposition
in the strata, and the same characters. The vegetable earth,
which covers the tops of steep hills on the left side, is nothing
but the gneiss itself in a state of decomposition, which is capa-
ble of being turned up by the plough; and the fields are
covered by numerous fragments of quartz, which have suffered
no alteration. - •
The two beds of gneiss which are distinctly observed, oji the
right bank of Potomac river, and which are separated on this
side by the AmpldboUc rock, appear to be re-united on the left
Digitized by
Google
godon's mineralogical observations, &c. 823
bank. I expected to find the grunstein again in this last, but
I found only some fragments of this rock — an insufficient proof
to justify dxi inference, that these rocks extend beyond the bed
of the river. .
We find, in the bed of the Potomac river,, several fragments
of rocks, which indicate a change in the constitution of the
soil running along the upper part of the river: among these
fragments is particularly distinguished an amygdaloid (wacke
of the Germans) of a dark colour, including globules of
a substance sometimes white, sometimes of a fine rose*
colour. In the centre of these globules, another substance of
a fibrous texture, and of a fine green colour often occurs.
This substance seems to be the epidote. These several substan-
ces are disposed in the rock, in a very elegant manner.
Specimens of most of the minerals mentioned in thi?
memoir, are deposited in the collection of the Philosophical So-
ciety of Philadelphia.
No. LI.
Memoir on the origin and composition of the meteoric stones which
fell from the Atmosphere, in the County of Fairfield, and State
of Connecticut, on the 14//* of December 1807; in a Letter,
dated February IStfi 1808, from Benjamin Silliman, Professor
\qf Chemistry in Vale College, Connecticut, and Mr. James L.
Kingsley, -to Mr. John Vau*han, Librarian of the American
Pkilosop/ucal Society.
■ Read March 4th, 180&
j U > ■ . .
Sir, *
We transmit, through you, to the Philosophical Society
of Philadelphia, a revised, corrected, and somewhat enlarged
account of the meteor which lately appeared in this vici-
nity* The substance of this account was first published in
the Connecticut Herald, as public curiosity demanded an early
statement of tacts. Since that, ,the stone has been carefully
Digitized by
Google
924 ACCOUNT AN1> DBidimOK
analysed, and the details of the analgia, forming a distinct
paper, having never been published, are now transmitted
to the society. The result of this analysis has. been such
as to confirm the general statement of the composition of
the stone, which was published in the Herald, but without
any of the details or the exact proportions. Under these cir*
cumstances, our present communication will probably be cons**
dered as sufficiently original, to merit the attention of the
respectable body to whom it is transmitted.
It may be well to repeat, that in the investigatioa of the
facts, we spent several days, visited and carefully examined
every place where the stones had been ascertained to have
fallen, and several where it had been only suspected without
any discovery; conversed with all the principal original wit*
nesses, and obtained specimens of every stone.
We are Sir, respectfully,
your very obedient servants,
BENJAMIN SILLIMAN.
JAMES L. KINGSLEY.
♦ • ,t
On the 14th of December 1807, about half past 6 o'clock
in the morning, a meteor was seen moving through the at-
mosphere with great velocity, $nd was heard to expjode over
the town of Weston, in Connecticut, about 35 males West of
New-Haven. Nathan Wheeler esq. of Weitoj^ ooe of the
justices of the court of common pleas for the county of Fair-
field, a gentleman of great respectability and undoubted vera-
city, Who seems to have been entirely uninfluenced by fear,
or imagination, was passing, at the time, through an enclosure
adjoining his house, and had an opportunity ot witnessing the
Whole phenomenon*. From him the amount of the appear-
ance, progress, and explosion of the meteor is principally
derived.
The morning was somewhat cloudy. The clouds were
dispersed in unequal masses; being in some places (hick and
opaque, and in others fleecy, and partially transparent. Nu-
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE. 325
a*erot*$ spots of unclouded sky were visible, and along the
Northern part of the horizon, a space of 10 or 15 degrees was
perfectly clear.
The attention of judge Wheeler was first drawn by a sud-
den flash of light, which illuminated every object; looking up,
fee discovered in the North, a globe ot tire, just then passing
behind the first cloud, which obscured although it did not
entirely hide the meteor.
In this situation, its appearance was distinct and well defined,
like that of the sun seen through a mist, it rose from the
North* and proceeded in a direction nearly perpendicular to
the horizon, but inclining by a very small angle to the West,
and deviating a little from the plane of a great circle, though in
pretty large curves, sometimes on one side of the plane, and
sometimes on the other, but never making an angle with it of
more than four or five degrees. Its apparent diameter was about
one half or two thirds the apparent diameter of the full moon.
Its progress was not so rapid as that of common meteors and
shooting stars. When it passed behind the thinner clouds, it
appeared brighter than before; and, when it passed the spots
of clear sky, k flashed with a vivid light, yet not so intense
as the lightning in a thunderstorm, but rather like what is
commonly called heat*fyhtning. Where it was not too much
obscured by thicks clouds, a waving conical train of paler
light was seen to attend it, in length about 10 or 12 diameters
*f the body. In the clear sky a brisk scintillation was ob-
served about the body of the meteor; like that of a burning
fire-brand, carried against the wind.
St disappeared about 15 degrees short of the zenith, and
about the same number of degrees West of the meridian. It
did not vanish instantaneously, but grew pretty rapidly fainter
and Sainter, as a red hot cannon-bali would do, if cooling in
the dark, only with tnuch more rapidity. There was no pe-
culiar smell in the atmosphere, nor were any luminous masses
seen to separate from the body; The whole period between
it* (first appearance *ad total extinction was estimated At about
SO seconds.
Digitized by
Google
326 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
About 30 or 40 seconds after, three loud and distinct reports
like those of a four-pounder near at hand, were heard. They
succeeded each other with as much rapidity as was consistent
with distinctness, and, all together, did not occupy three
seconds. Then followed a rapid succession of reports Jess
loud, and running into each other so as to produce a continued
rumbling, like that of a cannon-ball rolling over a floor, some-
times louder, and at other time*, fainter : some compared it to
the noise of a waggon, running rapidly down a lopg and
stony hill; or, to a volley of musquetry, protracted into what
is called in military language, a running fire. This noise con-
tinued about as long as the body was in rising, and died away
apparently in the direction from which the meteor came.
The accounts of others corresponded substantially with this.
Time was differently estimated by different people. Some
augmented the number of loud reports, and terror and imagi-
nation seem, in various instances, to have magnified every cir-
cumstance of the phenomenon.
The only observation which seemed of any importance be-
yond this statement, was derived from Mr. Elihu Staples, who
said, that when the meteor disappeared, there were apparently*
three successive efforts or leaps of the fire-ball, which grew more
dim at every throe, and disappeared with the last.
The meteor was seen East of the Connecticut, arid West of
Hudson river, as far South as New- York, and as far North as
the county of Berkshire Massachusetts; and the explosion was
heard, and a tremulous motion of the earth perceived, between
40 and 50 miles North of Weston, and in other directions*
We do not however pretend to give this as the extent of the
appearance of the meteor ; all that we affirm is, that we have
not heard any thing beyond this statement.
From the various accounts which we have received of the
appearance of this body at different place*, we are inclined to
believe, the time between the disappearance and report as
estimated by judge Wheeler to be too little, and that a minute is
the least time which could have intervened. Taking this,
therefore, for the time, and the apparent diameter of the body
as only half that of the full moon, its real diameter could not
be less than 300 feet.
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE. 327
We now proceed to detail the consequences which fol-
lowed the explosion and apparent extinction of this lumi-
nary. '
We allude to the fall of a number of masses of stone in
several places, within the town of Weston, and on the con-
fines of adjoining towns*. The places which had been well
ascertained, at the period of our investigation, were six. The
most remote were about 9 or 10 miles distant from each other,
in a line differing little from the course of the meteor. It is
therefore probable that the masses fell in this order — the most
northerly first, and the most southerly last. We think we
are able to point out three principal places where stones have
fallen, corresponding with the three loud cannon-like reports,
and with the three leaps of the meteor, observed by Mr.
Staples. There were some circumstances common to all
the cases. There was in every instance, immediately after
the explosions had ceased, a loud, whizzing or roaring noise in
the air, observed at all the places, and so far as was ascer-
tained, at the moment of the fall. It excited in some, the
idea of a tornado; in others, of a large cannon-shot, in rapid
motion, and it filled all with astonishment and apprehension
of some impending catastrophe. In every instance, immedi-
ately after this, was heard a sudden and abrupt noise, like that
of a ponderous body striking the ground in its fall. Except-
ing two, all the stones which have been found were more or
less broken. The most important circumstances of the parti-
cular cases were as follows :
1st. The most northerly fall was within the limits of the
town of Huntingdon on the border of Weston, about 40 or 50
rods east of the great road leading from Bridgeport to New-
town, in a cross-road, and contiguous to the house of Mr.
Merwin Burr. Mr. Burr was standing in the road, in front
of his house, when the stone fell. The noise produced by
its collision with a rockof granite, on which it struck, was very
loud. Mr. Burr was within 50 feet, and searched immedi-
ately for the body, but, it being still dark, he did not find it
* It may be necessary to remark that the term tovm, is, in Connecticut, a territorial de-
signation, meaning a yiven extent of ground, (anciently 6 miles square) and has no necessary
reference to a collection of houses.
U
Digitized by
Google
328 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
till half an hour after. By the fall, some of it was reduced to
powder, and the rest was broken into very small pieces, which
were thrown around to' the distance of 20 or 30 feet.
The rock was stained at the place of contact, with a deep
lead-colour. The largest fragment which remained, did not
exceed the size of a goose-egg, and this, Mr. Burr found to
be still warm to hi^ hand. There was reason to conclude,
from all the circumstances, that this stone must have weighed
from 20 to 25 pounds.
Mr. Burr had a strong impression that another stone fell in
an adjoining field, and it was confidently believed that a large
mass had fallen into a neighbouring swamp; but neither of
these had been found.
It is probable that the stone whose fall has now been de-
scribed, together with any other masses which may have faJIen at
the same time, was thrown from the meteor at the first Explo-
sion.
2nd, The masses projected at the second explosion seem
to have fallen principally at, and in the vicinity of Mr.
William Prince's in Weston, distant about five miles from
Mr. Burr's, in a southerly direction.
Mr. Prince and family were still in bed, when they
heard the explosions, and immediately after, a noise like
that ordinarily produced by the fall of a very heavy body
to the ground. They formed various unsatisfactory conjee- *
tures concerning the cause, nor, did even 'a fresh-made hole
through the turf in the door-yard, about 25 feet from the
house, lead to any conception of the cause. They had indeed
formed a vague conjecture that the hole might have been made
by lightning; but, would probably have paid no farther atten-
tion to the circumstance, had they not heard, in the course of
the day, that stones had fallen that morning, in other parts of
the town. This induced them, towards evening, to search the
hole in the yard, where they found a stone buried in the loose .
eafth, which had fallen in upon it. It lay at the depth of two
feet; the hole was about 12 inches in diameter, and as the
earth was soft and nearly free from stones, the mass had sus-
tained little injury, only a few small fragments having been
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE* 329
detached by the shock. The weight of this stone was about
thirty five pounds. Frofti the descriptions which we have
heard, it must have been a noble specimen, and men of sci-
ence will not cease to regret, that so rarfe a treasure should have
been sacrificed to the dreams of avarice, and the violence of
ignorant and impatient curiosity; for, it was immediately bro-
ken in pieces with hammers, and, in the hands of unskilful
pretenders, heated in the crucible and forge, with the vain
hope of extracting from it silver and gold : all that remained
unbroken of this mass, was a piece of 12 pounds weight, since
purchased by Isaac Bronson Esq. of Greenfield, with the libe-
ral view of presenting it to sonic public institution.
Six days after, another mass was discovered, half -a mile north
west from Mr. Prince's. The search was induced by the con-
fident persuasion of the neighbours, that they heard it fall near
the spot where it was actually found, buried in the earth, and
weighing from 7 to 10 pounds. It was found by Gideon Hall
and Isaac Fairchild. It was in small fragments, having fallen
on a globular detached mass of gneiss rock, which it split in
two, and by which it was itself shivered to pieces.
The same men ipformed us, that they suspected another
stone had fallen in the vicinity, as the report had been distinct-
ly heard, and could be referred to a particular region, somewhat
to the east. Returning to the place, after an excursion of a few
hours to another part of the town, we were gratified tp find
the conjecture verified, by the actual discovery of a mass of
13 pounds weight, which had fallen half a mile to the north
east of Mr. Prince's. Having fallen in a ploughed field, with-
out coming into contact with a rock, it was broken only into
two principal pieces, one ot which, possessing all the characters
of the stone in a remarkable degree, we purchased, for, it had
now become an article of sale.
Two miles south east from Mr. Prince's, at the foot of Ta$-
howa hill, a fifth mass fell. Its fall was distinctly heard by
Mr. Ephraim Porter and his family, who live within .40 rods
of the place, and in full view. They saw a smoke rise from
the spot as diey did also from the hill, where they were positive
that another stone struck, as they heard it distinctly. At the
Digitized by
Google
350 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
time of the fall, having never heard of any such thing as stones
descending from the atmosphere, they supposed that lightning
had struck the ground; but, after three or four days, hearing
of the stones which had fallen in their vicinity, they were in-
duced to search, and the result was, the discovery of a mass of
stone in the road, at the place where they supposed the light-
ning had struck. It penetrated the ground to the depth of
two feet, in the deepest place; the hole was about 20 inches
in diameter, and its margin was coloured blue, from the pow»
der of the stone, struck off in its fall. It was broken into frag-
ments of moderate size, and, from the best calculations might
have weighed 20 or 25 pounds. The hole exhibited marks of
violence, the turf being very much torn, and thrown about to
some distance.
We searched several hours for the stone which was heard to
fall on the hill, but without success. Since that time, however,
it has been discovered. It is unbroken, and on a careful com-
parison we find that it corresponds exactly, in appearance, with
the other specimens, except that from its magnitude, some of
the characteristic marks are more striking than in the smaller
specimens. This stone weighs 36 1-2 pounds; it was found by
a little boy of the name of Jennings, and was, a few days since,
in the possession of his father, who was exhibiting it at New
York, as a show, for money.
It is probable, that the five stones last described, were all pro-
jected at the second explosion.
3d. At the third explosion a mass of stone far exceeding the
united weight of all which we have hitherto described, fell in
a field belonging to Mr. Elijah Seeley, and within 30 rods of
his house. Mr. Seeley's is at the distance of about four miles
south from Mr. Prince's. Mr. Elihu Staples lives on the hill,
at the bottom of which the body fell, and carefully observed the
whole phenomenon.
After the explosion, a rending noise, like that of a whirlwind
passed along to the east of his house, and immediately over his
orchard, which is on the declivity of the hill. At the same in-
stant, a streak of light passed over the orchard in a large curve
and seemed to pierce the ground. A shock was felt, and a re-
Digitized by
Google
OP A METEORIC STONE. 331
port heard, like that of a heavy body falling to the ground ;
but, no conception being entertained of the real cause, (for no
one in this vicinity, with whom we conversed, appeared to have
heard of the fall of stones from the skies) it was supposed that
lightning had struck the ground. Some time after the event,
Mr. Seeley went into his field to look after his cattle. He
found that some of them had leaped into the adjoining en-
closure, and all exhibited strong indications of terror, Passing
on, he was struck with surprise at seeing a spot of ground which
he knew to have been recently turfed over, all torn up, and the
earth looking fresh, as if from recent violence. Coming to the
place he found a great mass of fragments of a strange looking
stone, and immediately called for his wife, who was second on
the ground.
Here were exhibited the most striking proofs of violent colli-
sion. A ridge of micaceous schistus, lying nearly even with
the ground, and somewhat inclining like the hill, to the south
east, was shivered to pieces to a certain extent, by the impulse
of the stone, which thus received a still more oblique direction,
and forced itself into the earth, to the depth of three feet, tear-
ing a hole of 5 feet in length and 4 W2 in breadth, and throw-
ing masses of stone and earth to the distance of 50 and 100
feet. Had there been no meteor, no explosions, and no wit-
nesses of the light and shock, it would have been impossible
for any one contemplating the scene, to doubt, that a large and
heavy body had really fallen from the atmosphere, with tre-
mendous momentum.
From the best information which we could obtain of the quan-
tity of fragments of this last stone, compared with its specific
gravity, we concluded that its weight could not have fallen
much short of 200 pounds. All the stones, when first found,
were friable, being easily broken between the fingers; this was
especially the case where they had been buried in the moist
earth, but by exposure to the air, they gradually hardened.
This stone was all in fragments, none of which exceeded
the size of a man's fist, and was rapidly dispersed by numerous
visitors, who carried it aw2y at pleasure. Indeed, we found it
difficult to obtain a sufficient supply of specimens of the various
Digitized by
Google
352 A6COUNT AND DESCRIPTION
stones, an object which was at length accomplished by impor-
tunity and purchase.
We have been more particular in detailing the circumstan-
ces which attended the fall of these bodies, and the views and
conduct of those who first found them, that the proof of the iacts
might be the more complete and satisfactory.
The specimens obtained from all the different places are
perfectly similar to each other. The most careless observer
would instantly pronounce them portions of a common mass.
Few of the specimens weigh one pound, most of them less than
half a pound, and from that to the fraction of an ounce.
The piece lately found on Tashowa hill, is the largest with
which we are acquainted, Mr. Bronson's is the next in size.
The largest specimen in our possession weighs six pounds and
is very perfect in its characteristic marks. Of smaller pieces
we have a good collection They possess every variety of form
which might be supposed to arise from fracture, with violent
force. On many of them, and chiefly on the large specimens,
may be distinctly perceived portions of the external part of the
meteor. It is, every where covered with a thin black crust,
destitute of splendor, and bounded by portions of the large ir-
regular curve which seems to have inclosed the meteoric mass.
This curve is far from being uniform. It is sometimes depress-
ed with concavities, such as might be produced by pressing a
soft, yielding substance. The surface of the crust feels harsh,
like the prepared fish-skin or shagreen. It gives sparks with
the steel. There are certain portions of the stone covered with
the black crust, which appear not to have formed a part of the
outside of the meteor, but to have received this coating in die
interior part, in consequence of fissures or cracks, produced pro-
bably by the intense heat to which the body seems to have
been subjected. These portions are very uneven, being full of
little protuberances. The specific gravity of the stone is 3.6,
water being 1. The specific gravity of different pieces varies .
a little, this is the mean of three.
The colour of the mass of the stone is, in general, a dark ash,
or more properly a leaden colour. It is interspersed with distinct^
masses, from the size of a pin's head to the diameter of one or
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE. 333
two inches, which are almost white, resembling in many in-
stances the crystals of felspar, in some varieties of granite. The
texture of the stone is granular and coarse, resembling some
pieces of grit-stone. It cannot be broken by the fingers;- but
gives a rough and irregular fracture with the hammer, to which
it readily yields. On inspecting the mass, five distinct .kinds
of matter may be perceived by the eye. '
1. The stone is thickly interspersed with black or grey glo-
bular masses, most of them spherical, but some are oblong.
Some of them are of the size of a pigeon-shot, and even of * a
pea, but generally they are much smaller. They can be de-
tached by any pointed iron instrument, and leave a concavity
in the stone. They are not attractable oy*he magnet, and can
be . broken by the hammer. If any of them appear to be
affected by the magnet, it will be found to be owing to the ad-
herence of a portion of metallic iron. /
2. Masses of pyrites may be observed. Some of them are
of a brilliant golden colour, and are jreadily distinguished by the
eye. Some are reddish, and others whitish. The pyrites ap-
pear most abundant in the light-coloured spots, where they ex-
hibit very numerous and brilliant points, which are very con-
spicuous through a lens.
3. The whole stone is interspersed with malleable iron, alloy-
ed with nickel. These masses of malleable iron are very va-
rious in size, from mere points to the diameter of an inch. They
may be made very visible by drawing a file across the stone,
when they become brilliant.
4. The lead-coloured mass, which cements these things toge-
ther, has been described already, and constitutes by far the
greater part of the stone. After being wet and exposed to the
air, the stone becomes covered with numerous reddish spots,
which do not appear in a fresh fracture, and arise manifestly
from the rusting ot the iron.
5. There are a few instances of matter dispersed irregularly
through the stone, which for reasons that will appear in the
analysis, are considered as intermediate between pyrites and
malleable iron. They are sometimes in masses apparently
crystalline, but usually irregular. They ^re black, commonly
Digitized by
Google
334 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
destitute of splendor, and for the most part lie bedded in the
stone, tho' they sometimes appear like- a glossy superficial coat*
ing. They are sometimes attracted by the magnet, and some-
times not.
Finally, the stone has been analysed in the laboratory of this
College, and appears to consist of the following ingredients
Silex, iron, magnesia, nickel, sulphur.— The two first con-
stitute by far the greater part of the stone/ the third is in consi-
derable proportion, but much less than either of the two first,
the fourth is still less, and the sulphur exists in a small but in-
determinate quantity.
Most of the iron is in a metallic state; the whole stone at-
tracts the magnet, and this instrument takes up a large propor-
tion of it when pulverized. Portions of malleable iron may be
separated so large, that they can be readily extended under the
hammer.
It remains to be observed, that this account of the appear-
ance of the stone accords exactly with the descriptions, now
become numerous, of similar bodies which have fallen in
other countries, at various periods, and with specimens which
one of us has inspected, of stones that have fallen in India,
France and Scotland. The chemical analysis also proves
that their composition is the same; and it is well known
to mineralogists and chemists, that no such stones have been
found among the productions of ^his globe. These considera-
tions must, in connection with the testimony, place the credi-
bility of the facts said to have recently occurred in Weston,
beyond all controversy.
To account for events so singular, theories not less extraordi-
nary have been invented. It is scarcely necessary to mention
that theory which supposes them to be common masses of stone
fused by lightning, or that which derives them from terrestrial
volcanoes; both these hypotheses are now abandoned. Their at-
mospheric formation, from gaseous ingredients, is a crude unphi-
losophical conception, inconsistent with known chemical tacts,
and physically impossible. — Even the favourite notion of their
lunar-volcanic origin, seems not to be reconcileable with the
magnitude of these bodies, and is strongly opposed by a number
of other facts.
Digitized by
Google
. OF A METEORIC STQNB. $$5
The" late President Clap of this College, in his Theory of
Meteors, supposes them to be terrestrial comets, revolving about
the earth in the same manner as the solar comets revolve about
the sun. That, moving in very excentric orbits, when in peri-
gee, they pass through the atmosphere, are highly electrified,
and in consequence became luminous. As they approach their
lower apside, their electricity is discharged, the body disappears,
and a report is heard. This being admitted, it is not strange,
that by the violence of the shock, portions of the meteor should
be thrown to the earth, while the main body, not sensibly af-
fected by so small a loss, continues to move on in its orbit,
and, of course, ceases to be luminous. It is however, with
much deference, that we submit this theory to the scientific
world; although to us it appears to correspond with the analo-
gy of the creation, and the least embarrassed with difficulties.
Yet there are such numerous objections to this and every other
hypothesis, that, until we have more facts and better observa-
tions, the phenomenon must be considered as in a great measure
inexplicable. Two things however we consider as established : —
1. These bodies did not originate from this earth.
2. They have all come from, a common source, but that
source is unknown.
Chemical examination of the stones wluch fell at Weston (Connec-
ticut) December lltk, 1807. By Benjamin Silliman, Projessor
of Chemistry, in Yale College.
The public are already in possession of ample details, con-
cerning the fall of these bodies, and the phenomena which pre-
ceded the event. I have made an attempt to ascertain their na-
ture, by a series of experiments, the result of which is now
communicated to the public. It will be necessary to make
some observations, and to detail some experiments, upon each
of the constituent payts of the stone.
I. Of the stone at large.
II. Of the pyrites.
III. Of the malleable iron.
x
Digitized by
Google
33fi ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
IV. Of the black, irregular masses.
V. Of the crust.
VI. Of the globular bodies. v '
I. Of the stone at large.
The account now to be given, supposes the reader acquaint-
ed with the statement which Mr. Kingsley and myself have
already published, especially with the mineralogical description.
1. One hundred grains of the stone, taken without any par-
ticular reference to the various bodies, and, containing, pro-
miscuously, portions of all of them, were pulverised in a por-
phyry mortar. The malleable iron resisted the pestle, so that
the mass could be reduced only to a coarse powder. It was
then digested for 1 1 hours, with a moderate lamp-heat, in strong
nitric acid, in a ^apsule of porcelain. Nitrous gas was disen-
gaged, with the usual red fumes, and a light whitish matter
appeared, dispersed through the solution, resembling gelatinous
silex.
2. The clear fluid- was decanted from the insoluble residu-
um, all of which, except a small portion of the white floculent
matter, had subsided; to separate this, the fluid was filtered,
and exhibited a decidedly greenish colour.
3. The solid residuum was heated over Argand's lamp, till
it was quite dry, and then triturated for an hour in mortars of
porphyry and jasper. As the malleable iron had now been it-
moved by the acid, the residuum was easily reduced to a fine
powder, which had a brick red colour, and was digested again
for an hour, with a mixture of nitric and muriatic acids, some-
what diluted, and then boiled for some time in the same fluid.
This was decanted and filtered,- and the residuum was washed,
with water, till it came off tasteless; the washings were all fil-
tered, and added to the two solutions, No. 2 and 3. The en-
tire fluid had now a light yellow colour, owing to the nitro-
muriatic acid, present in excess.
4. The solid residuum, together with the solid matter arrest-
ed by the filters, being ignited in a platinum crucible, became
nearly white, and weighed 51,5 grains. It was fused with
potash in a silver crucible, and the crucible with its contents
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE. 337
immersed in water contained in a silver bason; the resulting
fluid .was decomposed by muriatic acid, and evaporation, and
the precipitate, after ignition, in a platinum crucible, was white.
There could now be no hesitation in pronouncing it to be silex;
and the conclusion seemed sufficiently established, that more
than half the stone consisted of this earth.
5. The entire solution was next examined, to discover what
was the soluble part of the stone. After the superfluous acid
was saturated with ammonia, a voluminous red precipitate
appeared, which was oxid of iron. The fluid was filtered and
heated on a sand-bath, to expel the excess of alkali, and to
precipitate any additional portion of oxid of iron, which it
might have suspended; but none was obtained.
6. As much of the precipitate, as could be collected from the
filter, being washed, dried, and ignited strongly in a platinum
crucible, became of a dark brown colour, inclining to red, and
weighed 32 grains. The filter which had been accurately weigh-
ed before it was used, and after it had been thoroughly dried on
a heated slab of Portland-stone, was found to have gained six"
grains. The whole precipitate, was therefore estimated at 38
grains. The oxid of iron, thus obtained, was not in the high-
eststate of oxidizement, for, it was completely, although not pow-
erfully, attractable by the magnet, by which the whole of it
was actually transferred from a glass plate to a wine glass.
7. The fluid from which the oxid of iron had been preci-
pitated, was now greenish, being precisely of the same colour
as in No. 2. Carbonat of potash produced no precipitate ; but
caustic potash threw down a voluminous, fleecy, white preci-
pitate. This being separated by the filter, dried, collected and
moderately heated, became almost black; but, on being heated
strongly in a platinum crucible, covered by an inverted cruci-
ble of the same metal, it became white. It weighed 13 grains.
It dissolved rapidly in sulphuric acid, and afforded, by evapo-
ration, prismatic crystals, which had an acidulous, bitter taste,
(the acidity was produced by a redundancy of the sulphuric
acid.) It afforded a white precipitate, with caustic potash, suf-
fered the aqueous fusion, and became a dry mass on alive coal.
From all these indications it was concluded, that the 13
Digitized by
Google
SS8 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
grains were magnesia. These crystals of sulphat of rtiagnesia,
had a very slight tinge of green, a circumstance which was
doubtless connected with the dark appearance <>f the magnesia
when first heated. It shall be resumed presently. It should
be observed, that in some of die experiments with sulphuric
acid, on the supposed magnesia, a white matter, in small quan-
tity, remained undissolved at the bottom of the vessel. It
could hardly be silex, and preliminary experiments led me to
conclude that no lime was present. Was it accidental, or was
there a small portion of alumine ? This white matter, when
heated with sulphuric acid, and sulphat of potash, did not af-
ford crystals of altim, on evaporation. I have not yet had lei-
sure, fully to decide this point, but, intend to resume it. The
stone has a very slight argillaceous smell, when breathed upon.
8. The remaining solution still retained its greenish colour.
Previous trials had decided that neither copper nor iron was pre-
sent in the solution. Nickel was therefore sought for, and the
^observation of Howard and Vauquelin, in their analyses of the
*9tone of Benares, led me to expect it in triple combination with
the ammoniacdl metal and muriat, which had been formed in
the liquor by a previous step of the process* — According to the
experience of Howard, I found the hydfo-sulphuret and the
prussiat of ammonia, the only agents among those which I tri-
ed, that would precipitate the nickel. The prussiat of ammo-
nia gave a white precipitate, inclining to purple; the hidro-
sulphuret of ammonia, a voluminous black precipitate. The
hidro-sulphuret was used, and the precipitate was separated by
the filter. The filter being dried, it was with great difficulty
that about three fourths of a grain were collected. The portion
adhering to the filter, was estimated at about a grain. That
which had been collected was ignited, in a platinum crucible,
and became green. It was, without doubt, the oxid of nickel,
and, with every allowance for loss and other circumstances,
the whole cannot be estimated at more than 1,5 grain. In this
estimate is included a portion of nickel, adhering to the
magnesia, when it was precipitated, which caused it to turn
black, when first heated, gave the sulphat of magnesia for-
med from it, a slightly greenish tinge, and whose existence
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC JITONE. 330.
is $till farther proved, by the production of a black colour,
when a solution of this salt was mixed with the hidro-sulphuret
of ammonia.
9. The fluid from which the nickel had been precipitated
was now of a yellow colour, unmixed with green. This must
have resulted from the hidro-sulphuret of ammonia, and nothing
could now be detected in dissolution, except what had pro-
ceeded from the various re-agents employed. There was, how-
ever, one other constituent of the stone, of whose existence the
eye furnished decisive evidence, of which no account has hi-
therto been given, namely, the sulphur. As to the quantity of
this, I can give only an estimate. Of the grounds of that
estimate, together with the fruidess attempts which were made
to collect the sulphur, I will speak presently, but, for the sake
of concluding this head I will now add, that the sulphur was
estimated at 1,. If this analysis be correct, then, the 100 grains
which were examined, afforded,
Silex, 51,5
, Attractable brown oxid of iron, - - - - - 38,
Magnesia, ----------- 13,
Oxid of nickel, ---------- 1,5
Sulphur, ---- -.^iy
105,
The excess, instead of the usual loss, proceeds manifestly
from the oxidizement of the iron, in a considerable, but un-
known proportion. I must add, that the proportions of these
ingredients vary in different parts of the stone, as is manifest to
the eye, and will be immediately more fully evinced. In the
analyses of others, should there be found some difference of
proportion, it will not necessarily indicate a contradiction. The
great point of the similarity of the stones to those which have
fallen in other countries, and which have been analysed by
Howard, Vauquelin, Klaproth, and Fourcroy, who have been
my guides in this investigation, will now, in all probability, be
considered as sufficiently established. Had the daily avocations
of a course of public lectures, allowed the necessary time, I
should have attempted something like a complete analysis of
Digitized by
Googte
S40 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
each of the constituent parts of the stone. If circumstances
permit, this may be still done, but in the mean time, a few ob-
servations, perhaps of some utility, may be offered.
II. Of the Pyrites.
In the stones in our possession, very few masses of pyrites of
any considerable size are to be found, and they are generally so
friable, that it was only with great difficulty, and patience, that
20 grains could be collected from 200 or 300 pieces. Their
powder is blackish. I digested these 20 grains, for 12 hours,
in muriatic acid, somewhat diluted, hoping to separate the sul-
phur, so as to collect it, as Mr. Howard had done. But in this
I was disappointed. Only a very few minute portions of sul-
phur appeared; they did not, as with Mr. Howard, float, but
subsided among the earthy sediment, and only enough of them
was collected to decide the existence of sulphur, by their burn-
ing with tfye peculiar smell of that substance. During the so-
lution, the smell of sulphureted hidrogen gas was emitted.
As the stone, or, at least some parts of it, emits the smell of sul-
phur, when heated, I attempted to procure the sulphur by sub-
limation. A portion of the powdered stone was placed in a
coated glass tube, the upper part of which was kept cold, while
the coated part was ignited for an hour, but no sulphur was
obtained.
I caused the gas which arose from the solution of the metal-
lic part of the stone, in the sulphuric and muriatic acids, to
pass into a solution of caustic potash. Only a small portion of the
gas was absorbed ; the potash became slightly hidro-sulphureted,
since it precipitated the acitat of lead, black, and deposited a
little sulphur, upon the addition of sulphuric acid. As I had
already robbed the specimens of almost every tangible mass of
pyrites, and injured them considerably by the extraction, I was
compelled to relinquish the idea of obtaining the exact propor-
tion of the sulphur. Mr Howard, in the analysis of the stone
of Benares, states the sulphur at 2 parts in 14- of pyrites, or
about 15 per ct. If we may suppose these pyrites to be of the
same composition (and their physical properties correspond with
Count Bournon's description)we might deduce the proportion
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONE. 341
of sulphur from the proportion of pyrites in the stone; for, there
is every reason to believe, that the sulphur exists in no other
part of the stone, except the pyrites, and those masses which
have proceeded from their decomposition. It is impossible,
however, to separate the pyrites from the other parts of the
stone, so as to estimate their proportion exactly, but, they evi-
dently do not exceed one fifteenth of the whole stone. If
therefore the sulphur be estimated at 1, it is probable the esti-
mate will not be very erroneous.
The muriatic solution of the pyrites had a greenish colour;
ammonia threw down the iron in a black precipitate, becoming
rapidly red, when exposed to the air. The filtered fluid gave
no traces of magnesia, when examined with caustic potash, but
hidro-6ulphuret of ammonia, gave an abundant precipitate of
nickel. Hence these pyrites are composed of iron, nickel,
and sulphur. Having saved the precipitates, I hope still to ob-
tain the proportions of the two former.
III. The malleable Iran.
When the stone is pulverized, the magnet takes up, usually,
more than 40, — I have taken up even 50, but, once, only 23,.
This is however, far from being all iron ; there is much adher-
ing earthy matter; some adhering pyrites, and, in short, all the
principles of the stone adhere. A separate analysis of the at-
tractable part gives us nothing different from the results already
stated, except an increase in the proportion of metallic matter,
and a diminution in that of the earthy principles. The malle-
able iron contains nickel equally with that in the pyrites. On
the other hand, a separate analysis of the unattractable part,
presents no other diversity than a diminution of the metallic,
and an increase of the earthy principles. I have separated a
piece of malleable iron, so large, that by alternately heating
and hammering, it was extended into a bar six tenths of an
inch long, and one tenth thick: — another mass was hammered
into a plate more than half an inch in diameter. The attracta-
ble part of the stone dissolves rapidly in the strong acids; the
muriatic and sulphuric, diluted, give abundance of hidrogen gas,
partially sulphureted, and nitric acid gives copious fumes of
Digitized by
Google
942 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
nitrous gas. In the same masses are found malleable iron,
pyrites, and matter in an intermediate condition, intimately
blended, and adhering to each other.
IV. The irregular black masses.
Some of these appear somewhat regular, like crystals of
schorl, but, most of them are irregular. While examining
them, I found, in some, appearances of pyrites, in a 6tate of
decomposition. This led to a suspicion, that these masses were
merely pyrites, which, by the force of the heat, had been de-
composed more or less completely. Accordingly, on separat-
ing a good many portions of these bodies, some were found
readily, others feebly, and others not at all attractable by the
magnet. But, the latter, by being heated, for a few minutes
with the blow pipe, became decidedly attractable. * As a stand-
ard of comparison, some golden coloured pyrites from Peru,
were heated by the blow pipe, to expel the sulphur, and were
made to pass through all the shades of colour, and degrees of
magnetic attractability, corresponding with the various condi-
tions of the black irregular masses. No doubt could now re-
main that the conjecture concerning their nature was weU
founded. The glossy interior coating, mentioned in the rai-
neralogical description, appeared to be of the same nature and
to approach nearly to the condition of malleable iron,
V. The Crust.
The black external crust adheres so closely to the earthy
matter within, that it is not easy to separate it. Indeed it ap-
peared scarcely worth while to subject it to a separate analysis,
since the blow pipe sufficiently indicates the difference between
it, and the rest of the stone. For, on heating any small portion
of the stone, with the most intense flame that a blow pipe can
give, it becomes covered with a black crust, similar to that of
the stone. The only point then in which the crust differs from
the rest of the stone is, that it has been changed by strong ignitim,
having suffered a sort of vitrification, and its metallic parts a
partial oxidizement; I say partial, for when detached it is at-
tractable by the magnet, and the file discovers points of malle-
able iron.
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STOKE, S4S
VI. The globular Bodies.
These appear to be merely portions of the stone, embracing
probably all its principles, which have been melted by intense
heat, and being surrounded by solid matter, have become more
or less globular, like the globules of metal which appear dis-
persed through a flux in a crucible, after an operation with a
very high degree of heat, upon a very refractory metal. The
globular bodies in this stone, although not attractable by the
magnet, readily become so by being heated with the blow pipe.
Is the iron in them too highly oxidized, to admit of attraction,
and, are they partially reduced by ignition on charcoal? Fi-
nally, is there not reason to conclude, that these meteoric stones,
originally presented nothing distinguishable by the eye, except
pyrites and the enveloping earthy matrix, that by the operation
of heat, the irregular black masses have been produced, by a
partial decomposition of the pyrites, that by a still more intense
heat in certain parts, the pyrites have been altogether decom-
posed, and malleable iron produced, that the crust is produced
by a mere oxigenizement and vitrification, that the difference
of colour in trie earthy part, is owing to the unequal operation
of heat, the pyrites being left, in some places, especially in the
white spots, almost wholly undecomposed, and that the globu-
lar bodies have been formed by a complete fusion of certain
portions, by intense ingition?
Yale College, January 14*A, 1808,
POSTSCRIPT.
February 22, 1808.
In Nicholson's Journal for October, 1806, (No. 61, p. 147,)
is an abstract of a memoir, by A. Saugier, taken from the 58th
volume of the Annals of Chemistry, in which the author as-
serts the existence of a new principle in meteoric stones, viz,
chrome. Before adverting to this subject it will be well to point
out another assertion in M. Saugier's memoir, which appears
y
Digitized by
y Google
344 ACCOUNT AND DESCRIPTION
to have been erroneously expressed. After remarking that all
chemists who have examined meteoric stones, "have obtained
similar results" he enumerates the principles which have been
discovered in them, and says they are, " silex, iron, manganese,
sulphur, nickel, with a few accidental traces of lime and aiu-
mine." It seems plain that manganese has here been careless-
ly written instead of magnesia, for, neither Mr. Howard, nor
any of the able chemists who succeeded him in the examina-
tion of meteoric stones, before M. Saugier, ever found manga-
nese, but constantly magnesia, and as magnesia is not mention-
ed at all by this latter chemist, I think it plain, that mag-
nesia is intended by him, where he writes manganese.
Dismissing this for an inadvertency, we will therefore return
to chrome.
I have carefully repeated and somewhat varied and extend-
ed the experiments of Saugier on the discovery of chrome in
meteoric stones.
1. A strong solution of caustic potash was boiled for an hour
on a portion of the stone in powder, the fluid was filtered ; it
had a slightly yellowish colour. .
2. Nitric acid was added, somewhat in excess, in order that
the potash might all be saturated.
3. Nitrat of mercury, recently formed, without heat, was
added, but there was no precipitate whatever; at this stage of
the process, Saugier threw down a red, orange coloured preci-
pitate, or chromate of mercury. 9
4. A small portion of the stone was now fused with pure
potash, in a silver crucible, and maintained for some time in a
red heat; every thing soluble was then taken up by water, the
fluid was filtered, and had a green colour.
5. Nitric acid was added, a little in excess, and then nitrat
of mercury, as before, but no precipitate ensued, these experi-
ments were several times repeated, and with the same success.
6. Other portions of the fluid, resulting from the boiling of
potash upon the stone, and from its fusion upon it, and subse-
quent solution, were now mixed with the nitrat of mercury,
widiout the previous addition of nitric acid. A copious yel-
low precipitate was thrown down, this was heated to ignition
Digitized by
Google
OF A METEORIC STONfi. 345
in a platinum crucible, the oxid of mercury was decomposed,
and its elements expelled, and a small portion of a green oxid
remained in the crucible. In several repetitions of the process
this, invariably, occurred. I had been led to suspect that this
was the oxid of nickel, because the alkaline solution, from
which it had been obtained, gave a black precipitate, with the
hidro-sulphuret of ammonia; accordingly, on fusing a portion
of this oxid, with borax, under the blow-pipe, it produced a
glass of a hyacinth red; the same fact took place with a por-
tion of a substance, known to be the oxid of nickel, which was
fused with borax, for the sake of comparison. On fusing a
portion of the chromat of lead, or Siberian red lead ore, with
borax, and afterwards with vitreous phosphoric acid, glasses of
an emerald green colour were produced.
Hence it was concluded*, that the meteoric stones of Weston
do not contain chrome, but that the green oxid obtained, was
the oxid of nickel.
No. LII.
Observations of the Cornet which appeared in September 1807, in
tlie Island of Cuba, by J. J. de Ferrer. ,
t Read August 19th, 1808.
. r
Mean time at the Hie obserred tong. The observed lit
# Cityof Havanaa. : of the Comet. of the Comet.
w h ' " Q i * 0 9 9
1S07. Octr. 1 6 54 50 220 21 12 18 46 03 N.
18 6 54 42 . 234 36 58 37 41 11
Novr. 3 6 56 05. .251.41 25 51 13 00
4 6 49 30 252 57 08 51 54 42
7 6 44 20 257 02 22 53 54 18
17 7 04 26 272 54 40 59 17 31
18 6 27 36 274 37 42 59 42 37
19 6 44 10 276 27 40 60 06 13
25 6 59 07 287 53 57 61 56 32
Deer. 1 7 26 00 299 55 3} 62 51 30
The longitudes and latitudes of the preceding table, have
been deduced from angular distances observed of Arcturus,
Vega, Altair, *, 0 and * in the Swan, with the circle of re-
flection, described in page 265 of this volume.
The observations from the 1st Octr. till the 7th Novr. were
made in the city of Havanna, the others at the plantation of
Digitized by
Google
34f6 ASTRONOMICAL OBSEKVATIONS •'
Don Joseph de Cotilla, situated in latitude 22° 55f I*"' N.
and 44", Sf in time, E. of Havanna.
The times of the observations were determined by a good
chronometer, regulated by absolute and corresponding altitudes
of the sun and stars, and the times observed at the plantation,
are referred to the city of Havanna, by die difference of meri-
dians.
To determine the place of the comet, many series of obser-
vations were made with two or three of the above named star^
choosing those that made the most convenient triangles, and as
the different observations could not be made at the same time,
care has been taken, to refer all the distances observed, to (jpto
same instant, by means of the variation observed of the dis-
tances of the said stars from the comet*
The distances observed were freed from the effects of refrac-
tion, corrected by reference to the state of the thermometer
and barometer.
The places of the stars were taken from the Conrwisance de
temps, of Paris, 1806; allowance being made for the proper
motion, precession of the equinox, nutation and aberration.
Further, the latitudes and longitudes of the said table arc the
apparent, that is, affected by the nutation and aberration. The
elements of the orbit of the comet were calculated from the
first observations which I made in Havanna, that is, from 1st
Octr. to 7th Novr., by Don Francis Leamur, Lieutenant Col.
of the Royal Corps of Engineers, and are the foj/owing : —
Passage through the perihelion, mean time at the city of Havanna, Septr. 18th 11> 58' 59''
Longitude of the ascending node. . . 8« 36° 39' 09"
Inclination of the orbit. 63 13 30
Place of the perihelion 9 00 45 01
Perihelion distance, that of the sun being L . . 0,6462128
After having concluded the observations, namely up to the
1st December, I determined to calculate the elements of the
parabolic orbit, by the combination of all the observations, and
the following elements are the results.
Passage through the perihelion, mean time, at the city of Havanna, Septr. 18. 12* 3T 00"
at Greenwich, . . . 18 06 40
Longitude of the ascending node from the mean equinoxes* 26° 42' 12"
Inclination of die orbit ... . 63 12 51
Placeof the perihelion 9 00 51 35
Perihelion distance, that of the sun being 1 0,6462667-
Digitized by
Google
BY J* J. BE FERRER*
347
Comparison of the observations with the results of the theory
calculated by the above elements.
The longitudes and latitudes observed and calculated in the
following table, are freed from nutation and aberration.
The two last columns shew the difference between the longi-
tude and latitude, observed and calculated.
Meantime,
The observed
The observed
Calculated
Calculated
Diff.
Diff.
1807.
Havanna.
Longitude.
Latitude.
Longitude.
Latitude.
long.
iat
k t *
o / »
o f m .
o 9 m
• / w
V
V
Octr. 1
6 54 50
220 21 14
18 46 32 N
220 21 37
U8 46 30 N
—23 +02
16
' 6 54 42
234 37 06
37 41 36
234 36 19
37 42 15
+47 —39
Kerr. 3
6 56 05
251 41 39
51 13 17
251 41 36
51 12 55
+ 3 +22
4
•6 49 30
252 57 25
51 55 00
252 5812
51 54 21
—49
+39
7
6 44 20
257 02 40
53 54 33
257 02 25
53 55 01
+17
+13
—28
17
7 04 26
272 55 16
59 17 42
272 55 03
59 18 36
—48
18
6 27 36
274 38 23
59 42 49
274 38 50
59 42 58
—27 —09
19
6 44 10
276 28 21
60 06 25
276 28 39
60 06 46
—18
—21
25
6 59 07
287 54 41
61 56 37
287 55 14
61 56 51
—33
—14
Deer. 1
7 26 00
299 36 18
62 51 30
299 56 44
62 51 22
L_2o!+0H
Continuation of Astronomical Observations, made at the plantation
of Don Joseph de Cotilla* , j
Determination of Latitude. .
1B07, Novr. 13 By 8 series of ©*s double altitudes, observed near the meridian, with a
circle of reflection.
17 ditto 0's diameter.
21 ditto ditto/
Novr. 17 By 4 series of double altitudes of
the pole-star. . . .
, 20 py 2 series of Fbmalhat.
Mean Latitude.
22° 55* Hi" K.
22 55 15|
22 55 09$
— mean. 22° 55' 13",5tf.
22 55 20
22 55 17
> mean. 22 55 18, 5
22 55 16
By astronomical observations, I have determined the bearing
ofthe highest hill of Camoa, N. 13° 54' 10" W,
The hill of Camoa^ from the city of Havanrja, accbrding to
the survey which was made by the order of Government, was
determined =29ii30, Varas of €astilla =^13,JJ geographical
miles, bearing S. 45° E.
Latitude of Havanna, according- to a great number of observations
made with the same circular reflector.
Hill of Camoa S. 45 E. 13',11 miles, difference of latitude
Latitude of the hill of Camoa. . . •
By direct observations on the hill, with the circular.
Mean latitude of the hill. ......
2$° OS7 30"
i 9, 16
22 59 14
22 59 18
22 59 16
Digitized by
Google
348
ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
i
The combination of the two bearings, and the latitudes of
the hill of Camoa and Havanna, gives the former E. of the
city of Havanna 11' 05",2=±O in time.
Observations made on a lunar eclipse, on the 14/A Noor. 1807.
The beginning of the eclipse, apparent time,
beginning of immersion of Tycho.
end of immersion of Tyeho.
beginning of Mare humorum.
end of the eclipse.
a ' m
13 52 12
14 15 52
14 19 12
14 23 32
15 58 42
Observation of apparent lunar distances, observed witli the
circle of reflection, at the plantation. — The distances in the fol-
lowing table are the result of 4 series of direct and inverse ob-
servations.
1807.
Appt. time.
h 9 w
Novr. 14
8 01 12
8 26 51
15 37 40
17
907 30
9 24 40
19
20 31 20
21 17 28
. 21
21 33 52
22
17 25 27
24
17 53 15
22 01 38
22 16 12
Deer. 2
22 57 34
23 23 09
23 57 20
3
0 50 54
"4
3 50 27
4 11 51
7
1 51 48
2 11 58
6 14 33
6 26 30
9
6 33 59
15
7 04 51
. 7 16 24-
20
12 13 28
' ,
12 18 16
1808.
12 31 02
Jan. 11
14 06 42
14 23 14
19
16 08 31
16 23 02
21
21 25 35
■
21 45 24
Appt. Dist.
Ther.l
Barom.
a tf Cs remote limb.
o i a
19 06 40 r
65$
30 10
ditto. ditto. • , •« .
18 57 52
a tf C's nearest limb.
16 45 37
ditto. ditto.
20 51 04
66
30 00
ditto. t ditto. • , .
<31 00 46
© C nearest limbs.
118 10 53
72
30 00
dittOT^ . •
117 50 13
, ditto. . .
92 16 37
75
29 96
a, tip, £'s nearest limb.
41 43 54
67
30 10
ditto. ditto.
12 37 06
65
30 15
<J)C ...
ditto. . ...
51 56 57
72
30 10
51 51 26
ditto. ...
52 58 33
77
4)00
ditto. . . .
53 09 29$
ditto
. 53 22 46
ditto."
53 42 14*
ditto
66 14 57*
74
30 12
ditto. .*../.
66 19 55
ditto
99 05 41
74
30 10
ditto. . . -
99 12 32
C's and Atair nearest limb. .
58 57 49
70
29 98
ditto. .
59 00 25
C a $ remote limb.
47 53 01
69
30 00
Cab remote limb.
29 03 30$
74
29 95
ditto. ditto. . J . '
/. 29 10 25
■
Cand Regulus remote. limb,
ditto. . -*
2125 48
$1-28 25
70
30 10
ditto. - .
21 35 14
Cub nearest limb.
26 13 05
66
30 15
ditto. ....
26 18 48
C and Antares nearest limb.
37 44 55
55
30 14
ditto. .' . .
37 39 58
©C ....
61 55 05
n
30 08
ditto. .
61 49 10
Digitized by
Google
. BY J. J. DE FERRER. 349
January \lth, 1808. Occultation off n by the moon.
i«^~:™ ^ lu* a—v iimK £ Apparent time, lib 46' ll",4
Immersion on the dark limb {Mean time. . . 14 54 32,0
The disappearance was instantaneous — magnifying power
of the telescope, 75.
January 27. By four series of double altitudes of Canopus,
near the meridian, observed with the circular reflector, correct-
ed by the horary angles, and refraction, the meridian altitude
was determined. . . 14° 28' 53,5"
By 4 series of similar observations on Sirius. 50 36 54,4
By 10 series of angular distances, observed with the circular
reflector, and corrected for refraction, the mutual distance was
determined =36° 17' 19,4".
The difference of right ascension in time, of the above stars
= 16' 59,5".
By the distance observed, and the difference of right ascen-
sion results the difference of declination. 36° 08' 00,4"
The difference of meridional altitudes =dif-
ference of declinations, . . , . 36 08 00,9
Taking the latitude of the place as stated above 22° 55' 16"
and correcting the meridional altitudes observed, from nutation,
aberration, and precession, we have the true, or mean declina-
tions of the two stars on 1st January 1808.
Canopus. . 52° 35' 34,9"
Sirius. . . . . 16 27 36,8
Comparing the observations of la C^ille on 1750, and sup-
posing the annual precession in longitude=^50,l" we have the
proper motion of Canopus in declination in 5 8 years — 0' 10,1"
Sirius. . . , +1 02,0
Mean declination of Sirius, according to the Rev. NeviU Maskelyne
on the 1st of January, 1808. • 16p 27' 30"
Connoisance de temps .... 16 27 38,6
By the observation with the circular reflector. . . . 16 27 36,8
Astronomical observations made at the city of Havanna. La-
titude of the place 23° 08' 30".
Occultations of stars by the moon, observed with an Achro-
matic telescope — magnifying power 75.
April 5th, 1808. € 1 a SB on the dark limb, apparent time. . . llh 53' 34"
May 2d, 374 of Mayer on the dark limb, ditto. 9 01 49
3d, to Lion on the dark limb. ditto. . . 10 33 49
The immersions vrere instantaneous.
Digitized by
Goog
le
350
ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Observations made on a lunar eclipse at the city of Havanna,
on the 9th of May, 1808: — magnifying power of the tele-
scope 70.
IMMERSIONS. Meantime,
a ' m
Beginning of the Eclipse. . 12 22 29
Beginning of Grimaldus. . 12 27 18
End of ditto. . . 12 27 58
Beginning of Aristarcus. . 12 26 38
End of ditto. . 12 30 08
Beginning of Mare humorum. 12 37 57
ditto, of Copernicus. . 12 39 37
End of ditto. 12 40 57
Beginning of Plato. . 12 43 57
End of do. . 12 45 07
Beginning of Mare serenitat 12 50 57
Center of ditto. . . 12 55 16
Beginning of Tycho. 12 56 46
End of ditto. 12 58 41
Beginning of Mare Crisium. 13 09 21
End of ditto. 13 14 20
End of Langrenus. . . 13 18 00
Total darkness of the C. 13 21 25
EMERSIONS. Meantime.
B ' m
End of total darkness of the C 14 55 10
End of Grimaldus. . . 15 01 SO
End of Aristarcus. . . . 15 05 45
Beginning of Tycho. . 15 14 14
End of ditto. . 15 15 47
Center of Schikardus. . 15 19 28
End of Plato. . . 15 21 23
Beginning of Mare serenitat 15 28 29
Center of ditto. . . 15 33 07
End of ditto. . 15 37 57
EndofTaruntius. . .15 44 17
Beginning of Mare erbium. . 15 46 46
End of ditto. 15 49 26
The end of the eclipse. • .15 54 36
The above observations of the lunar eclipse are very exact,
excepting the beginning and the end of the eclipse, which are
liable to the error of one and a half minute, on account of the
strong penumbra.
Table of t/ie results of the occuUations of the stars by the moon.
Mean time of immersions.
Longitude west from Paris.
Mean time at Paris.
Apparent longitude of the stars.
Apparent latitude of the stars.
Latitude— Vertical angle-
Logarithmic radius of the earth*
Equatorial horii. parallax of the C
Parallax in Longitude.
Parallax in latitude.
Apparent difference of latitude be-
tween the moon and stars.
Conjunction mean time.
Havanna west from the plantation.
Conjunction in Havanna by observ.
At Paris by the new tfbles.
Havanna west from Paris.
Imm. inC
Imm. l<3flB<C
hn.347mayer
Imm. ift€
at plantation
Havanna.
Havanna.
Havanna.
Jan. 11, 1808.
April 5, 1808.
May 2, 180&
May 3, 1808
b t • ■
b / M
a / w
a / •
14 54 32
11 56 07
8 58 14
10 31 26
5 38 06
5 38 50
5 38 50
538 50
20 32 38
17 34 57
14 37 04
16 10 06
94°07 55
130°26 03,6
124 45 10,5
138 52 00
3 O4 40S.
5 29 34S.
5 20 48 S.
5 34 07 S.
22 47 52
23 01 13
9.9998036
9.9998000
57 23,8
58 24,5
57 15
. 58 05,3
-,45 36,0
-M 35,9
—35 44,5
—38 52,3
+13 05,2
+29 17,9
+22 38,3
+31 16^2
5 03
6 08,0
7 36,0
14 31
13b59 34
44,3
13 58 49,7
llb09 37
8 18 11
934 32
19 38 24,0
16 48 51
13 57 11
15 13 40
5 39 34,3
5 39 14
5 39 00
5 39 08
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DE FERRER*
.551
Remits of observed lunar distances.
Apparent time of the observations
Apparent distances nearest limb.
Altitudes of <C calculated $*$£*
Altitudes of the stars do. f ^rue.
Corrected distances.
Apparent longitude of the stars.
Apparent latitude of ditto.
True longitude of the moon by obser-
vations January 11th, 14*> 15' 00",5 V
Apparent time at the Plantation, j
January 19th at 16h 15' 4&\5 apparent time.
January 11th, 1808
January 19th, 1808. *
C» «
<C* «
C & Antares.
C & Antares
b ' m
b / »
b 9 W
b « a
14 06 43
14 23 18
16 08 31
16 23 02
26°l3 05
26°18 48,2
37 44 45
37 39 55
43 03 40
39 27 20
47 18 2a
48 57 00
43 49 31
40 10 30
47 57 34
49 35 01,5
16 51 40
13 07 10
13 33 30
16 13 20
^6 48 41
13 03 20
13 29 41
16 10 09
27 12 22,8
27 21 06,4
38 37 06,1
38 29 02,8
67 06 52,3
247 05 00,6
5 28 47S.
4 32 30 S.
3« 04° 21' 02",7
6 28 30 03,5
Longitude of the Plantation W. from ParU«-5h 38' 29",7+44",3
Ditto from the observation of 19th . 5 38 18, 5+44, 3
Havanna W.
from Pari 8.
5'» 39' 14
, 5 39 03
Solar eclipse of June \6th, 1806, in the city of Havanna.
Apparent time.
b / •
Dist. of the horns.
9 W
8 55 34,6 beginning of the eclipse 0 00,(T
8 57 20,2 & 12,9
8 59 22,0 8 51,6
9 02 08,6 U 40,0
9 04 35,8 13 31,5
9 07 44,0 15 17,0
9 11 40,0 17 19AJ
Qbserved by Don Antonio de
» Robredo, with a Heliometer
ofDollond.
With the elements of page 270 of this Volume, I have calculated
the conjunction, by the beginning, June 15th.
By the first observation of distance .
By the second. ....
By the third. • - . • .
Conjunction June 15th, Astronomical time.
Ditto. in Paris, page 296, June 16th.
Havanna west from Paris.
Mean time.
h ' "
22 50 58
22 51 03
22 51 07
22 51 04
22 51 03
4 30 12
5 39 09
By the Solar Eclipse (page 16%) observed in the city of Havanna,
and at Lancaster in Pennsylvania. U. S.
Havanna west from Lancaster ...
Lancaster west from Paris (page 297.) r . # .
Havanna west from Pads. . . . . . . 5 39 06
0b 24' 25"
5 14 41
Digitized by
Google
352 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Longitude ofHavartna, by the observatums compared with the
new tables published at Paris in 1 806.
htm
C January 11, 1808. . 5 39 34
Occultations of stars. < April 5 5 39 14
C May 2 5 39 00
May 3 5 39 08
«n;a*«,*^«of«^« S * 8 January 11. . . 5 39 14
Distances of moon. | a ^ Januai^ 19 # 5 $0 Q3
Solar eclipse, 1803 5 38 16
do. 1806. 5 38 20
Moon's eclipse, May 9, 1808. 5 38 51
5 38 SS
By corresponding' observations of solar eclipse
February 21, 1803 .. . . 5 39 06
Ditto June 16, 1806. 5 39 09
5 3*9?
jHavanna inferred from Philadelphia, by the chrono-
meter, No. 63 5 39 18
Inferred from Veracruz, page 225. . . . 5 38 37
Ditto from Porto Rico, page 225 5 38 34
■ 5 38 SO
Havanna west from Paris* 5 38 57
Passage qf Venus over the disk of the Sun, June 3d, ] 169.
Elements from Astronomical tables at • 10*» 11' 47" mean time at Paris.
Longitude of the sun, apparent equinox. . 73* 27 18,3
Right ascension of the sun 72 03 16
Horary motion in ©*s right ascension. • 2 34
Relatiye horary mation in longitude . 3 57,40
Horary motion of Venus in latitude S. 0 35,42
Inclination of the orbit. 8 29 10,00
Apparent obliquity of the ecliptic . . 23 28 11,5
Radius rector of the earth. . 1,0151990
Radius vector of Venus 0,7262650
0»s semidiameter. ... . 15' 47",07
By a previous calculation of the observations of this passage,
I had determined the following elements : — :
Sun's parallax at the mean distance from the earth — 8",62378
Apparent conjunction, mean time at Paris »■ lO* 11' 47''
Apparent longitude of Venus 73 27 18,3
Duration of the passage between the interior contacts «■ 5* 41' 54",5 in mean time.
or 5 41 52,1 in apparent time.
Latitude of Venus at conjunction, north. ... 10 15,94
The shortest distance of the centers. • . . 10 09,18
Difference of the semidiameters of O and $ • . 15 15,89
Sum of the semidiameters 16 13,27 v
Difference of Venus and sub's parallaxes at the passage ■» 21*352
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DB FERRER.
553
TABLE I.
Reduction of the observations to the center of the earth.
Petersburg.
Cajaneburg.
Wardhus.
Bataria.
Gurlef.
Oremburg.
Orak.
Pekin.
Appt. time
of the ob-
Effect
Appt. time
r Long.
Contacts at center of earth.
of
of con. cen-
from
Appt. time at mericUof Paris
serrations.
Parallax
ter of earth
Paris.
II.
111.
IV.
a 9 w
/ 9
a / *
a t »
a t *
a » 9
HI
15 24 41
—5 16
15 19 25
— 1 51 56
13 27 29
IV
15 43 27
—4 58
15 38 29
13 46 33
II
9 20 45
-1.6 44
9 27 29
-1 41 47
7 45 48
IV
15 32 27
—4 36
15 27 51
13 46 10
II
9 34 10
+6 27
9 40 37
-1 55 07 7 45 3$
III
15 27 24
—4 33
15 22 51
13 27 44
IV
15 45 41
—4 09
15 41 32
13 46 25
III
20 30 13
-^4 02
20 26 11
—6 58 15
13 27 56
IV
20 48 31
—3 45
20 44 46
13 46 31
III
16 52 25
—6 28
16 45 57
-3 18 24
13 27 33
IV
17 11 06
—6 06
17 05 00
13 46 16
HI
17 (J5 06
—6 12
16 58 24
—3 30 58
13 27 56
IV
1? 23 24
—5 53
17 17 31
13 46 33
HI
17 1» 26
—6 09
17 12 17
-3 44 43.
13 27 34
IV
17 36 57
—5 52
17 31 05
13 46 22
HI
21 08 24
—4 27
21 03 57
-7 36 30
13 27 27
IV
21 26 54
—3 54
21 23 00
13 46 30
Mean results of the HI and IV Contacts 13 27 39,9|16 46 27,5
In the calculation of this and the following tables, the paral-
lax of the sun, at the mean distance of the earth =8"62S78,
and the difference of parallaxes at the passage =21",352.
Note. Thfe III contact at Petersburg was observed 1 3* 28' 29"
and I subtracted one minute of time, being. probably an error
committed in settftig down the time of the clock.
TABLE II.
* • •
Reduction of the observation to the center of the earth.
Paris.
Greenwich.
Kew.
Oxford.
London.
Stockholm.
UpsaL
II
Apparent
Effect •
Appt. time at
Appt time of con.
time of
of
the center
Longitudes
at center of the
observations.
parallax.
of the earth.
from Paris.
earth at Paris.
7 38 45
+7 03,1
7 45 48,1
729 25
+7 04,2 •
7 "36 29,2
+00 09 21
+ 10 24
7 45 50,2
7 28 17
+7 04,2
7 35 21,2
7 45 45,2
7 24 20
, +7 02,0
7 31 22
+ 14 23
+ 9 37
745 45
7 29 16
( ±7 04,0
7 36 20
7 45 57
8 41 46
+6 56,0
8 48 42
— 1 02 55
7 45 47
84frl2
* +<* 57,4
8 47 09
— 1 01 15
7 45 54,4
Mean.
+7 01,6
Meat*.
7 45 49,5
Digitized by
Google
354
ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Fort Prince of Wales
St Joseph.
Taity.
Philadelphia.
Cape Francais. .
Cambridge
TABLE III.
Apparent time
Effect of
Appt. time at the
observations.
parallax.
center of the earth
a * •
t w
a / 9
II
1 15 23
+4 12,1
1 19 35,1
III
7 00 47
+0 39,1
+0 49,5
7 01 26,1
IV
7 19 20
7 20 09,5
II
0 17 27
+0 20,3
0 17 47,3
III
5 54 50
+4 47,9
5 59 37,9
IV
6 13 19
+4 46,0
6 18 05,0
II
21 44 04
—5 33,4
21 38 30,6
III
3 14 08
+6 17,4
3 20 25,4
I
2 13 45
+3 38
2 17 23
II
2 31 28
+ 3 54
235 22
I
2 26 12
+2 23,6
+2 37,6
2 28 35,6
II
2 44 44,5
2 47 22,1
II
2 4? 30,0
,+4 19,0
2 51 49,0
TABLE IV.
Difference of time between tlie interior and exterior contacts at the
center 0/ the earth.
Petersburg
Wardhus.
Batavia.
Oremburg
Gurief.
19 04*
18 41
18 35
. . . 18 37
19 03
Orsk 18 48
Pekin.
Fort Prince of Wales
St. Joseph.
Greenwich. •
Cape Francais
19 03
18 42
18 27J
• 18 48
18 47.
Oxford 18 413
Mean.
►Egress.
i
Ingress.
18 46,4
IV contact at Paris, center of the earth, Table I.
Mean result of Table IV
Ill contact by the observations of IV contact.
By the mean of direct observations, Table I.
Mean result for the III contact.
II contact by Table II
13 46 27,5 effect of parallax.
—18 46*4
13 27 41,1
13 27 39,9
13 27 40,5
7 45 49,5
Total duration of the interior contacts (n) . . 5 4151,0
By the observations of Wardhus. . 5* 42' 14",0 ?5 4X 543
By
ditto
Cajaneburg. 5 41 35 5
Mean.
By the observations at Taity
By the observations at St. Joseph.
By ditto . F.P.Wales,
M
5 41 52,9
5 41 54,8
5 41 50,6
5 41 51,0
54,1
18,1
—5 06,1
+7 01,6
—12 07,7
—11 10,6
—11 38,8
+11 50,8
+ 4 27,6
— 3 33,0
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DE FERRER.
Results of sun's parallax at die mean distance of the earth
By the duration, at Taity and (n) ' 8",600
Taity and (tf) . . . .- . 8,620
Taity and Wardhus. ' • . 8^,731 \ ft -0<5
Taity and Cajaneburg. . . 8,516 J 5'wj4
St. Joseph and F. P- Wales. . . ... . . . 8,623
St. Joseph and (a) =» . . 8,645} fi Mf.
Taity and F. P. Wales. « . 8,5833 * * * ' ' \
Mean result. • , 8,615
355
Contacts at the center of the earth, for the meridian of Paris; allow-
ing the sun's parallax at the mean distance qfthe earth=8")6 15.
I Contact. Apparent time 7 27 02,5 *
II . 7 45 48,9
III 13 27 41,4
IV 13 46 27,8
Error of the duration of the observations at Wardhus. . . -|-22",8
Cajaneburg. • . . — 16,0
(n) . . . . . -0,5
Taity +1,3
St. Joseph. . . . ~- 2,3
F. P. Wales. . . . — 1,7
Determination of the longitude of different places, from Paris, by
the observation of the passage of Venus.
Phobia. by the ft *£££££ \ % gg - * » 03,7 W.
Cape Francais. . |jj ' * \ . \ ttl 2T,t} 4 58 27>5 W'
Cambridge, N. Eng. II ." .' . ." ' 4 54 00,5 W.
Taity. . . " Jgj- ' • / iSJJS3| 100717,2W.
St. Joseph. . fa \\\* r5SS| ^ 28 02,8 W.
F.P.Wales. . . |« ' ' \ ' J S Ss} « 26 14,4 W.
CII . . . 1 54 47,6}
Wardhua . <III 1 55 09,9 C 1 55 01,5 E.
CIV . . . 1 55 07,13
Cajaneburg. • j}v # . " . " . # . 1 S SS] * 41 31>5 E-
Gurief. . . . I™ • ' p ' .' I \l g 1 3 18 23,5 E. '
Oremburg. . |{** • - • 3 31 03 C 3 SO 53,5 E.
Orsk. . . g£ '. \ \ \ stt^ J 34436,0 El
Batttia. > • Jiv # . \ \ " . 6 S W I 6 ** ^° E-
Pekin. . . g" : # \ -#- £$^| ?***&>
Petersburg. . {{y ' ." ' . * . # . 1 S OT J 1 51 52,5 E.
A a
Digitized by
Google
356
ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Passage of Mercury over the disk of the Sun, Novr. 12/A, 1782.
Philadelphia.
Paris.
Greenwich/
is
dm.
u
s,
Civ
°1
Mean time.
contact 9 34 50-,
9 40 00<
. 10 51 30<
10 57 35J
2 58 04,5}
2 04 30 > Apparent tine.
. 4 17 40 3
■ . 2 54 42 Apparent time.
. 10 12 10}
. 11 23 06 > Apparent time.
11 29 143
Cambridge in New
England.
Difference of 0 and g '8 semidiameters. . . 16' 04",27
Difference of horizontal parallaxes. ... 4, 01
Horary relative motion in longitude. 3 S3, 45
Horary motion of g in latitude, N. 51, 91
Appt conjunction at Paris, by the obsery. at Paris and Greenwich •■ 4h 04' 09*r
Apparent conjunction* by observations at Philadelphia. • . 22 53 59
Apparent conjunction Cambridge* • • 23 10 16
Longitude of Philadelphia west from Paris. . < 5h lb* 10"
Cambridge west from Paris . • 4 53 53
Passage of Mercury over the disk of the sun, Novr. 5th, 1787.
Observations. '
Apparent time
V 9 *
Paris, interior contact at the ingress. . . . 1 19 00
Vivjers do. ' ... 1 28 32
Cadiz do 0 44 30
Marseilles. - . do. . . 1 31 07
Montauban. • do 1 15 14
Vienna. . . do. .... 2 15 08
Prague. . . . do. . . 2 07 26
rI 20 ©8 00
puljUm:. i1* 20 09 30
Philadelphia. jm 00 59 34
MV 1 01 U
rI , . . . 20 24 04
Cambridge in S II * » . * * . 20 25 52
N.England. > III 115 44
MV 1 17 36
Montevideo ,111 2 15 U
IV ....... 2 16 54
Difference of the horizontal parallaxes. . . . «■ 4", 149
Horary relative motion in longitude between the ingress and conj. 349,55
Between the egress and conjunction. ... . • 350,00
Horary motion in latitude, N. , . . • . . ' . 51,40
} diameUr of ©—1",50 irradiation. 969,28
* *' f
Apparent conjunction at Paris, by the observations in Europe » 3, 33 16
Philadelphia. ; . . . . 22 23 22
Cambridge • ' . . • . ?2 39 36
Montevideo 23 39 01
Lqngi^dt of Philadelphia west from I*aris. . . $ 09 54
Cambridge west from Paris. * . . . 4 53 40
, .Montevideo west from Paris. • . . 3 54. 15
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. DE FERRER. 357
Annular eclipse, April 3d, 1791.
Elements from the Astronomical tables published at Paris, in the
year 1 806, by order of tlie Commissioners of longitude.
a t w
r
1791. April 3. Astronomical mean time at Paris. . 0 54 40
0*8 longitude from the apparent equinox. . 13°4l 58
0's right ascension in time. . • . . 0h 50 25
Q's semidiameter. ....... 0°16 00,42
". Equation of time. . . . . . . + 3 17,53
©*8 horary motion in longitude. 2 27,59
Horary motion in Q'a right ascension in time 9,10
Horary diminution of the equation of time 0,90
Cs longitude from the apparent equinox 13°41 37,8
<Ps north polar distance. + 89 15 05,9
Cs equatorial horizontal parallax 54 36,1
Q's equatorial horizontal parallax. ...... 8,6
Apparent obliquity of the ecliptic. . ' 23 27 53,0
Moon's horary motion in longitude. 30 12,97
Moon's horary motion in latitude S. 2 46,72
Horary diminution of Cs horizontal parallax. . . . 00,75
Equation of 2d order of the Cs horary motion in longitude. . — 00,40
ditto ditto ditto in latitude. . + 00,11
Proportion of the equatorial horiz. parol, and the Cs horiz . diameter. 60 : 32 45,1
Proportion of the equatorial and polar diameters of the earth — 330 : 329
Observations made by the Rev. Nevil Maskelyne, at Greenwich.
0h 18' 40" Apparent time, beginning of the eclipse.
1 44 51 Least distance of the limbs. 12*52" '
3 06 47 End of the eclipse.
. By the mean result of 8 observations, Q's diameter was . 31' 57", 0
b'* htm ft / »
Apparent time of the observations at Greenwich. 0 18 40 1 44 51 3 06 47
Difference of C and © equatorial parallaxes. 0 54 27,8 54 26,7 54 25,8
Parallax in longitude —18 02,4 —29 07,0 —38 05,0
Parallax in latitude —34 47,1 —30 18,6 —27 10,4
Cs apparent semidiameter— 2'' inflexion. . 15 02,2 15 01,0 14 59,0
©*s semidiameter— 2" irradiation. . . . . 15 58,4 15 58,4 15 58,4
Conjunction at Greenwich by the combination of the beginning and
the end of the eclipse. . . apparent time. . • 0*» 45' 16",5
Correction of latitude by the tables. ... . • -f. 13
By the least distance of the limbs. • . . . -f- l£^>
Supposing the irradiation of the sun's semidiameter • *• 1",8
The ©'s diameter was observed . -31' 57",0
By the tables. 32 00, 8
The corrected distance of the limbs - 32^ °° "'* X12 *52"- 12' 53",*
31,57
The double irradiation. • . . • — 3, 6
True distance of the limbs. . . . 12 49, 9
And the correction of moon's latitude corrected from the effect of refraction **+lVt5
Conjunction at Paris -(0»> 45' MV-fy 21") — 00»> 54' St'J
Observations at the National Observatory of Paris.
Beginning of the eclipse, apparent time. • . *-0* SPSS'',*
find of the eclipse. . • • ~ 3 20 52 0
Digitized by
Google
358 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS
Conj. at Paris by the combination of the beginning and end of the eclipse. 0*» 54' 38",5
Correction of the Vs latitude by die new tables .... w-f. 00 09
*•"-<. jebxnine'.appare?ttime: .•.".■.•.•.• "IBS!
Conjunction at Palermo. . = 1 18 45
Conjunction at Paris *- lh 38' 45",5 44' 06" = 0 54 39, 5
Correction of Cs latitude . . . • . . »+ 11,0
v t, C apparent time, beginning of the eclipse 2 56 30
retersourg^ end of the eclipse 5 21 26
By the combination of the beginning and end, conjunction in mean time ** 2 46 37, 6
Conjunction at Paris, mean time =- (21* 46' 37",6 lh 51' 56") «- 0 54 41, 6
Correction of the Cs latitude by the tables. . . . f=-f- - 10, 0
Bv the observations of Green wioh, conj. at Paris «-0 54 37,5 correction of Cs lat ««-f 11,5
By ditto Paris. . 0 54 38,5 ... .-J- 9.0
By ditto Palermo. . 0 54 39,5 .... -J- 11
By ditto Petersburg. . . 0 54 41,0 . . . . +10
Conjunction at Paris, mean time. • 0 54 39 .... +10,3
Correction of Va longitude by the new tables **-f 20,3
Observations at Cambridge, New England.
b $ *
April 2 18 01 27 * Apparent time, beginning of the eclipse
19 08 07 Annular formation.
19 12 56 Annular break.
20 28 26 End of the eclipse.
h'« h'« b f &
Apparent time of observation. . . 19 08 07 19 12 56 20 28 26
Moon's latitude by tables +10",3 N. 47 21,7 47 08,4 43 38,7
<C9s equatorial horizontal parallax. . 54 28,1 54 28,1 54 27,2
Parallax in longitude 21 46,4 21 34,6 16 36,1
Parallax in latitude 47 28,6 47 18,3 43 52,6
Apparent latitude of the <t S. 00 06,9 00 09,9 00 13,9
Horizontal 4 diameters of the <C *. . 14 54,32 14 54,32 14 54^23
Augmentation oftheC'si diameter. - 4,00 4,27 ' 7,22
C's apparent semidiameters. . . 14 58,32 14 58,59 15 01,45
0's semidiameter from the tables. . 16 00,42 16 00,42 16 00,42
Difference and sum of semidiameters 1 02,10 1 01,83 31 01,87
Horary relative motion in longitude between the formation of the
annular and the time of the conjunction 27* 45",8
Between the end of the eclipse and the conjunction 27 45,2
Results : difference of semidiameter between the formation and the
breaking of the annular, by observation*. 61.45
By the Table,. »' ^"j1' M"B ' ...,..". W>__
Correction of the difference of semidiameters by the tables —00,51
Correction of the sum of semidiameters. . . . . —4,40
h ' w
Conjunction from the annular formation, mean time . 20 00 40,8
annular breaking. . 20 00 40,8
end of the eclipse. .... 200040,6
Longitude west from Paris .... — 4U 53' 58",2
Digitized by
Google
BY J. J. VS FERRER.
359
Observation in the City qf Philadelphia.
Formation of annulus.
%reak of annulus. .
End of the eclipse.
htm
18 46 Jl,5 Apparent time}
18 50 28^5 . * vObservedby Mr. Rittenhouse
20 03 42 3
a * w % • 9 br*
N.
1846 11,5
18 50 28,5
20 03 42 ' ~
00 47 37,5
00 47 25,5
44 01,9
47 07,1
46 59,3
43 58,5
' 00 30,4
00 26,2
00 03,4
24 35,3
24 28,3
20 35,4
14 STt35
14 57,56
15 00,74
16 00,42
16 00,42
16 00,42
1 03,07
1 02,86
31 01,16
Apparent time of the observation
C« latitude by the tables +10",3
Parallax in latitude. . . —
Apparent latitude of the C . Jf ^
Parallax in longitude. • •
Cs apparent semidiameter.
Semidiameter of the aun. -
Diff. and sum of C and 0*s semidiameters.
With the corrections — 0",5 for the •difference of semidiameters and— 4",4 for the sum
of semidiameters, according to the results of the observations at Qambridge, we have the
following results :—
Coaj. by the formation of the annitfhs. ' Mc*n time. 19* 44' 37"*)
By the breaking of the ahniilus . . . 19 44 38 V 19»> 44' 37",6 .
By the end of t&e eclipse 19 44 38 J
Longitude of Philadelphia west from Paris* • ■» 5 10 01, 4
Observations at George Town, Alary land.
Formation of atmulua* 18 36 43
Break of annulus. . 18 39 57
By the end of the eclipse. 19 52 21
Apparent time}
£ Observed by Andrew EUicott. Esq.
h * *
Conjunct, by the formation of annulus, mean time. 19 37 00}
By the breaking of ditto, . 19 37 00 C 19»» 36' 58",5
By the end of the eclipse. . 19. 36 53 J
Longitude of George Town west from Paris . . .» 5 17 40, 5
Note. 1 have subtracted 1' of time from the formation and the breaking of the annul**,
from the observations at Philadelphia, and added 1' of time to the formation of the annulus
at George Town, those errors having been discovered by the result of the observations.
By the combination, of the observations of the annular eclipse of the sun, April 3, 1791,
I have determined the corrections of the •
Irradiation of the Q's semidiameter «*— 1",70 infle*. of <Ps semidiameter *»— 2",00
i>o^oq« r1806-TotalecliP9C<*fthe© — 1» *? • •' • • • —1,93
¥5.-. 1 W64. Annular eofipse of the 0 r- & 15 . . . — 1, S$
vMu^l / 180L OcculUtion of a 1* 0 ....,• —1> 82
Volume. Cir99# Passage of tf over the © —1, 50 • . . .
Mean correction of the irradiation
. — 1, 80
inflexion.
— 1» 75
Recapitulation of the results of longitudes of Philadelphia and Cam-
bridge W. from Paiis.
Philadelphia,
b 9 *
Cambridge*
ft * »
,1769. Passage of Venus. ,
1782. Passage of Mercury.
1789. Passage of Mercury. .
1791. 0's annular eclipse • •
1806. Solar eclipse, page 297. •
. 5 10 03,7
. 5 10 10
. 5 09 54
• 5 10 01,4
5 09 57.0
4 54 00,5
4 53 53,0
4 53 40
4 53 58,5
Mean results.
5 10 01,2
4 53 53
fib
Digitized by
Google
( SCO )
( No. LIII. !
it
Notes; with corrections, to be applied to the geographical sitoa&rts
'inserted from page 158 to page L64, in the first part of the pre-
* sent volume of Transactions, by J.J.de Ferrer.
Read December 2d> 1808
NOTE I.
THE Lofcgitude of New York (page 297) deduced from
the solar eclipse, observed at Kinderhook, and thence transfer-
red by chronometer, is to the west of Paris 5* 05' 23"; and
by observations of the solar eclipse- the 26th of June 1 805, at
Lancaster and New York, the result g^vp the longitude of New
York to the eastward of Lancaster, (page 296) 9' 16" in time.
..... II 9 *
Lancaster west of Paris, (page 297) ■- 5 14 41
Hence New York west of Paris =»(5h 14' 41"— 9' 16") . — 5 05 25
By the mean result, New York 5 05 24
Greenwich west of Paris. • . • . . . • 9 21
New York west of Greenwich 4 S6 03 -74° 00- 45"
In page 158. 74 07 45
Correction of longitude to be applied to the places in page 158. . • —00 0T 00
Thus from the twelve longitudes on the coast, north of Cape
May, to New York, subtract 7' 00" of degree; as the longi-
tudes of those pomts were transferred by a chronometer from
the longitude of New York,
Occupation of stars by the moon, observed at New York.
b • m
1805. May 2. Immersion of a star of the seventh magnitude in n , 10 24 25,5
JuljT 8. do. AOphiuchus 1155 09,6
1806. April 26. do. d Geminomm. 8 15 49,3
Septr. 28. do. a star of the sixth magnitude in Opfchichus '7 07 10,8
These immersions took place on the dark limb of the moon,
and were observed with an achromatic telescope which mag-
nifies 1 20 times.
Digitized by
Google
COREE6TION8 OF SCQ. 301
NOTE II.
The longitude of Natchez (page 159) west of Greenwich* . 6 05 54
By page 297 west of Paris 6»> 15* Or' or west of Greenwich. . 6 05 40
Correction of the longitudes in page 159 —0 00 14
All the- longitudes being transferred from that of Natchez
by chronometers, there must therefore be subtracted from each
14" of time.
NOTE III.
Longitude of La Guira east of Natchez,; by correspondent
observations of eclipses of the satellites of Jupiter.
See the observations of Mr. Ellicott Vol V. page 189. 1 38 07
Natchez west of Paris, page 297. . . . . 6 15 01
4 36 54
Greenwich west of Paris . . • * . 9 21
La Guira west Of Paris. 4 27 33
And reduced to Greenwich. . . . 66*53 157 t%mmm^\mk « «/*«*/
lirpage 162. .. . • • • 67 ,0 8 j Correction — 6'53"
From that of La Guira subtract 6' 53" of degree.
NOTE IV.
To all the longitudes which follow from C. Bueno to Campe-
che, pages 163 and 164, add 5' 35-" of degree, on account of
their having been transferred from Havanna, by chronometers;
in consequence of the results of the observations, from page
345 to page £57, . >
NOTE V.
The longitude of Veracruz, page 160, found by the occul-
tation of o Sagittarius was 6* S3' 42", 8. I have compared the
corresponding observations with the new tables, and have also
determined ' the position of the' -star from the best catalogues.
The result gives,-^—
• Xongitudc of Veracrua. , . fit* 33' $%*£ west of Paris, which
Reduced to Greenwich is, 96° 07 50} /*-_-♦• M _• ^ oA«
In page 164. . . . 96 04 20$ Correction-+3 30
Hence to all the longitudes from Veracruz to the Bay (which
should be called the shoals) of Gallega, page 164, add 3' SO"
of a degree, they having been transferred from. Veracruz by
triangles.
Digitized by
Google
3&2 COfABCTION OF
NOTEiVI.
Frdm all the longitudes on tbe Ohio and on the Mississippi
(page 15S) which are expressed in time, subtract 14?" of time,
or 3' 30" of a degree, also from the longitudes from the Bar
of Santander, id the point oh the coast, subteact 3' 30". The
whole having been transferred from Natchez l>y chronometers;
from the longitude of which last place, a like deduction or J
correction is made, as determined from the last solar eclipse.
Solw eclipse, June I6tk, 1S06.
After the printing of Nos. XLIII and XLVII, in this Vol.
I received the following observations,
t Meantime.
* h / •
CEnd of the eclipse by Mr. Humbolt. . ' . . 6 39 40
Berlin. < "" By M. M. Bode and Olbers. . 6 39 40,5
C By Mr. T*ralles. . . . . 6 39 42
At Montauban, by Mr Due la Chapelle, beginning. ; • . 4 49 53
. . ("Beginning. . ..... ., . 4 18 42
Royal Obserra- j Distance of horns. 8' 27",94 . . . . 4 21 10
tory in the < The clear part of the sun in its greatest
Island of Leon. I obscuration . . . 11' 51",81
LSolar diameter observed. . 31 32, 06
In page 301, from a communication by Mr. Simeon De
Witt, it appears that the total darkness wasynstafttaneous, or,
continued but a moment,
In latitude 43° 22* andlongitude east of Hew York. . . 00° 45" Ofr'
In latitude 41 30 do, west of ditto. . ... 00 14 00
These last observations are the most important to determine
the latitude of the moon, and the difference of the semidiame-
ters. It may also be noted that though the total darkness should
not have been instantaneous, but ^yen of a quarter of a minute's
continuance, yet this influence on the result would have been
insensible, or not amounting to a single second*
The calculation being applied, it results, that the moment of
total darkness was, —
In latitude 43° 22* and longitude 45' east of New York at ll** 14' 07" mean time.
In latitude 41 30 longitude 14 west of do. 11 07 17 ditto.
Correction of moon's latitude by the new tables. ■ . + 3,3
Correction of the difference of semidiameters by tbe tables •»— . 1,12 -
Digitized by
Google
GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATIONS. . ' MS
The observation at Berlin is also vary {advantageous in asberw
tatning the latitude of the moon; the north apparent latitude of
the moon: at. the moment of the pnd of the eclipse, from the:
tables »= SO' 20", and the sum of the semidianieters(-r*H3'',9 ia*
flexion and irradiation)=33' 13",S.
The longitude of Berlin deduced from' the comparison of
many eclipse* and occultatifws, I maks 44' 09",5 east of Paris,
which differs only half a second from the Connoisancje de
temps. i
h i m
The time of conjunction at Pari* is known by other observations «4 30 1% 12 mean time.
With these elements there is a correction in the latitude of the C «*+. 2%0 • . . ; . *>
By the distance of centers observed at the Island of X.eon at the
greatest obscuration. . . « . , ♦ . • _ + 6,0
By the determination above >..'+' 3,3
Mean correction to the latitude in the tables + 3,8
Hence the latitude of the moon at the conjunction was . . 19 23,1 N.
Conjunction at Paris by the observations at Montauban and the
Island of Leon at * ^ .n* ' ,, * 4>30 1Q>8^ ;/.
By the mean result, page 296. 4 30 12,6
The longitudes in page 297 are exact, because an error of
6" in the latitude of the moon, has no influence on the results.
The calculations being applied to the observations of Kinder-
hook, with the correction of + 3",8 of the latitude in the ta-
bles we have,
Irradiation of the semidiameter of the sun. . . . —>— 2",2
Inflexion of the semidiameter of the moon. . • • =*— 1 ,6
By the observations, where the total darkness was momen-
tary, the same results are obtained, which only differ 0©",27
from the determinations in page 298.
With the corrections of the tables* determined as above, I
have determined the longitude of Havanna, by the dbserva-'
tions of this eclipse ?== 5> 59' 02" west of Paris.
Note fa page 275.
" In line 26,' for 0^ *' >'■** * *"*-** tead^ J iCOl*^^ *
. 4 49 30 4' 37"
I would not pretend to give any "importance to the supposi-
tion that the illumination of the lunar disk, proceeds from the
irradiation of the sun, which undoubtedly is not very probable.
Neither can it be attributed to the lunar atmosphere. The eye
of the observer is affected by the double horizontal refraction*
Digitized by
Google
36* CORRECTION OF
of the moon, acid in this case the solar disk would be visible to
the observer, before it would illuminate ithe moon, by a, quan-
tity proportional to the prodqpt of the horizontal refraction oE
the moon, and the relative apparent motion of » Land ©.
dpptndix to the Memoir XXXVI, page 213.
In the observations published a* Bertin, are : contained the
observations of the occultation of y 8 the 21st of October, 1793,
the same day when the occultation of Aldebaran took place.
The combination of these observations appears to me to be very
advantageous in determining the parallax of the moon.
Observations df the occupation ofy*.
Immeriioria. Emenioni.
Mean time. 'Meao time.
b t m h t *
At Figuertt by Mr. Mechato. . • . 9 24 32 • • . 10 28 47,5
AtMUan. . ; . . • . S 57 37 . . . . 1104 27,1
At Berlin 10 29 19,3
Those of Aldebaran are inserted in page 213.
By the comparison of 1 1 eclipses and occupations of sfars,
■ ' • .
• I determined the longitude of Berlin eaat of Paris. . . *» 44 09,5
Figueras, by two occultations and a sotar eclipse. • . . 2 32,8
Milan, in the Connoisance de temps of 1808 27,25,0
Marseilles. ....... 12 03,0
Gotha. . . . 33 35,5
Marine Observatory at Paris. . 2,5
Comparing the degrees of a meridian measured at Qqito>
India, Sweden and France, I determined the ellipticity, or the:
proportion of the equatorial and pQlar diameters of the earth,
lo be 31,7 : 316, which I have made use of in these observations. '
Elements by the new tables published at Paris in 1806.
. • - h 9 % m ' a t 9
iionj unction at Paris of C with > K —10 48 39,8 conjunction with « tf 17 51 06,0
Apparent longitude of > fc . . 62°55_ 19,63 . •.' _of «fc 665437,25
Apparent latitude of y g . ' . " 5 45 13,0 S. . . of « tf 5 28 52,5
Latitude ofC as per tablet . 5 06 12,0 S 5 06 03,0
Horizontal equatorial parallax of the C 57 57,5 n . • . • 57 42,6
Horary motion of the fc in longitude. ' 34 00,10 .* . . . . 34 50,7
Horary motion oftheC in lat. towards South. .5,1 towards the North* . ^ 7,7
By the result in page 215 we have. a difference of latitude
at conjunction of Aldebaran =22/ 57" and the correction of
4he latitude^ of the new tables= — 7"f5,
Digitized by
Google
GEOGRAPHICAL^ SITUATIONS. $65
Supposing the inflexion of the moon's semidiameter= l",5
We have the conj. at Paris by the observ. at Figjueras of imm- & em. . *=10 48 38.3
By the observation at Milan of immersion and emersion. • . 10 48 3fJo
. .. * - . . ■ i
Mean conjunction of > tf with C mean time at Paris. . . 10 48 37,6
Conjunction of Aldebaran by immersion and emersion at Paris, X ir ti cnv
by the observations of M. Mechain at Figueras. . .. j ,7 " w,r
Conjunctions deduced from the immersion of both stars, re-
duced to Paris with the inflexion =l",5f
Contain, t. For+lO^ Conjunct. For+10"
at Paris in Cs paral. at Paris. . in Cs par-
» ' * . ■ ,. i ' ,' h * * ' * ,
By observations at Figueras. 10 46 34,3, -f> M8 17 5102)7 — 14, JO
Berlin. 10 .48 35,3 + 5,30
..Milan. 10 48 33,3 + 7,52
Marseilles 17 51 08,7 — 15,40
Gotha. . . .... .17 51 59,7 *— 23,00
Paris 17 51 02,8 — 18,10
Mean; ,10 48 34^ + 7,23 17 51 02,2. — 17>S
By this comparisbn it appears that the greatest reliance is to
be placed on the observations of M.. Mechain, and if there
should be the least error it canhot exceed half a second.
: If the conjunctions' calculated by the tables be compared
with the conjunctions inferred from the immersions, there re-
sults,
Correction of the longitude in the new lunar tables. • . •- . —+2,50
Correction ofthe parallax in the tables. ... • . . • . . -jrOJQ
Conj. "by the new tables correcting the long, of the C by +5,5—10 48 34,8 17 51 01,0
By the observations supposing a correction of the parallax , .
in the new tables of +0,7 . . . • ~. . 10 48 34,8 17 51 01,0
Difference . . 00 00 00,0 00 00 00,0
It is to be observed that if use were made of the parallax in
the Nautical Almanack, which supposes the constant equatorial
57' ll",0 that is, 10" more than the tables of Burg, the last
results instead of coinciding, would have differed 24",98 in time.
• <■ ■ *
Second determination of the lunar parallax by the comparison
of the two immersions observed by Mechain.
Diff. of elongation, by the new lunar tables during the interval of the two imm. 5, 17 03,25
Difference of longitudes of the stars. . . . . 3 59 17,62
Effect of the parallax.*" 117 45,63
Sum of the elongation calculated by the parallax in the new tables. . . 1 17 44,24
Difference 0 00 01,39
Digitized by
Google
I
366 CORRECTION OF
The horizontal parallaxes at the immersion of both stars, corres-^ C$7 55,Y*> From the
ponding* to the latitude of Figxieras which have been used. *** * ** Q * ° * ^ 1Lf
The difference of apparent latitudes at the two immersions. • *mM
Error which may be caused by 1" of uncertainty in the difference
of latitudes, in the sum of the elongations. . . . ss*
By the difference of elongations. • <••■ . • . -
There results a correction of the parallax in the tables.
By the comb, of the tmm. and em. of both stars observed at Figueras
By the 6rst result. • • '
Mean correction of the parallax* . . . . ■ V • k »*■ +0,5- *
I have' calculated the horizontal parallax of the moon io
conjunction with Aldebaran by the periodical coefficients of
Mr. La Place, supposing the constant equatorial 57' 01" and
there results +0",5 more than that deduced from the tables,
which agrees with the last result..
Examination of the errors xohkh may influence the result of the pa-
rallax deduced from those abseivations.
< / *
The elements which have a direct influence, are the differ-
ence of the longitudes of the two stars, and the difference of
the longitudes of the moon during the interval of the two oc-
cultations deduced from the tables.
I have calculated with all possible care the places of the moon
corresponding to the moment of the two immersions observed
at Figueras, by the new tables, and I think I have obtained all
the accuracy of vvbich the tables are susceptible.
I have calculated also by the tables of the third edition of
Lalande, making use of the epochs of mean longitude, anoma-
ly and supplement of the node of the new tables; and the dif-
ference of longitudes during the interval of the two immersions,
differ but ope second. The differences of latitudes agree with
the result of the tables of Burg.
I have compared the right ascensions of the different cata-
logues and the Connoisance des temps for the year 1808, and
hitVe' moreover calculated various observations made by Mr.
Lalande, and the result which I have obtained, ascertains the
difference of the longitudes of the two stars within the limits of
0",8.and the latitudes within 1'"
■"
Digitized by
Google
GEOGRAPHICAL SITUATIONS.
367
The difference of latitudes at conjunction of * «* in page 215,
appears to be within the limits of l"; supposing the error in the
difference of the longitudes of the moon=0,/,5; of the stars
0",8, and the influence of an error of 2" in the difference of
the latitudes of the stars and the moon ; the sum of the three
errors, supposing it on one side, would influence the result of
the horizontal parallax of the moon only l",0.
If it should be supposed that the periodical coefficients of
La Place represent the motion of the lunar parallax better than
the coefficients of the tables of Burg; the constant equatorial
will result (from the present observations)=57' 0l",0 and the
constant equatorial of the new tables is the same.
The longitude of Porto-Rico, calculated by these elements,
is the same as inserted in page 220.
Errata, on the table of apparent lunar distances, page 348.
Norr. 14. 15 37 40
« 8 Cs nearest limb. 16 45 37 read remote limb. 16 45 37
17. 9 07 30
do. do. 20 51 04 read remote limb. 21 50 58
9 24 40
do. do. 2100 46 read remote limb. 21 00 46
!Dccr. 7. 6 14 33
. ,
read
6 14 54
6 26 30
•
. read
6 26 51
Results of the observations in the table, page
348.
AppV time
Longitudes of
Long, of the
at the
the <C from
Plantation
Plantation.
Observations. v
W. from Paris.
b * m
s o * m
* 9 m
1807. Now. 14.
8 01 12
1 18 37 09,0
5 37 58
,
8 26 51
1 18 50 31,0
5 38 31
15 37 40
1 22 30 35,6
5 38 06
17.
9 16 05
2 26 50 15^
5 37 56
22.
17 25 27
5 08 45 36,0
5 38 10
34.
17 53 15
6 07 45 11,0
5 38 22
Deer. 7.
6 20 52
11 26 07 43,0
5 38 53
9.
6 33 59
0 19 57 14,0
5 39 00
15.
7 10 37
3 05 67 45,5
3 37 53
20.
12 13 28
5 16 42 36,0
3 58 14
12 18 16
5 16 45 19,0
5 38 04
12 31 02
5 16 52 57,0
. 5 38 19
1808. Jan'y 11.
14 15 00
3 04 21 03,0
5 38 34
19.
16 5 46
6 28 '30 '03,0
5 38 18
Mean*
5 38 18,4
Havanna west from the F
lantation.
44,3
Havanna west from Paris,
. 5 39 02,7
c c
Digitized by
Google
368 CORRECTION OP &C.
NOTE.
The distances of the moon have been corrected from the
effects of refraction, parallax and the spheroidal figure of the
earth. In calculating the refractions, allowances have been
made for the state of the barometer and thermometer. — To de-
duce the longitude of the moon, use has been made of the lon-
gitudes of the stars lately determined by Maskelyne.
No. LIV.
Observations on the Comet of 1807 — 8. By William Dunbar.
Read November 18th, 1808.
THESE observations were made in latitude 31° 27' 48'* N.
and 6h 5' 50" nearly, west of Greenwich. The instrument
principally used for taking distances was a circle of reflection
by Troughton of London, graduated by the Vernier to ten se-
conds of a degree, and firmly supported upon a pedestal, adapt-
ed to every necessary movement; the observations were made
with the most scrupulous care, and as the pedestal afforded
every desirable facility, no observation was written down until
it had been re-examined several times by the separation and re-
union of the images. The clock was regulated to mean time.
This comet was first seen here about the 20th of September
1 807, and Seth Pease Esq. Surveyor of the Mississippi Territo-
ry, began to make observations on it the 22d of the same month;
and as I have the greatest reliance on the correctness of this
gentleman (who is an excellent astronomer) I shall here give
his observations which precede my own.
Observations by Seth Pease Esq.
h i m • ' *
1807. Sep. 22. Tuesday at 7 12 16 Comet northerly from Saturn 7 21 15
7 34 17 ditto, below * Serpentis. 24 16 30
23. 7 20 00 ditto, north of Saturn. . 7 46 7
7 28 00 ditto, below <t Serpentis. 22 41 15
24. 7 2 00 ditto, below * Serpentis. 21 12 30
7 13 00 ditto, north of Mars. . 19 33 30
25. 6 45 00 ditto, below « Lyrae. . 69 50 25
6 55 00 ditto, north of Mars. t 20 25 U
Digitized by
Google
COMET OP 1807 — 8. 369
This evening I observed an emersion of the 1st satellite of
Jupiter, with a six feet Gregorian reflector, power 128, at
8* 27' 5 8^ ' mean time ; $ fine observation; the sky was very
serene: from the darting of the first ray from the satellite, it
seemed a mere point of light for 15 seconds of time; perhaps
with telescopes in general use the satellite might have remained
invisible during those 15 seconds, which would affect the lon-
gitude resulting from the observation; from the above, the lon-
gitude deduced is 6* 5' 55.J." west of Greenwich.
The following are my own observations: —
1807, October 2d, The reflecting telescope, power 128, be-
ing directed to the comet, shewed the nucleus and coma with
tolerable distinctness; the idea produced in the mind of the
observer, was that of a round body in combustion, which had
produced so much smoke as to obscure the nucleus; the smoke
seemed to be emitted in every direction; but, as if it met on one
side with a gentle current of air, the smoke seemed to be re-
pelled and bent round the nucleus, escaping on the opposite
side, in the direction of the tail. To the naked eye, the comet
could not be seen earlier in the evening than a star of the se-
cond or third magnitude, although its disk was considerably larg-
er; with the telescope, the nucleus did not seem to be much more
than one third, certainly not one half of the planet Mars, which
had been lately observed. The Coma seemed to be at least ten
times the magnitude of the nucleus; an imperfect measure was
taken of the tail, which was about 63' in length. The coma
appeared to be, in a certain degree, illuminated from the nucle-
us, and the whole was compared by many persons to a distant
building on fire. This evening, the following observations were
made : —
At
3d. At
k r
0 / *
6 40
The comet from Jupiter
81 55 55
6 57
. below * Lyra*
. 59 0 20
6 33
. from Arcturus
. 20 40 35
i5 52
. from Jupiter.
81 17 15
7 3i
. below * Lyrx,
. 57 32 45
4th. This evening there was an occultation of the planet
Mars by the moon, at 7h 2' l" mean time:- the moon was low,
involved in the grosser horizontal atmosphere, and, apparently,
almost touching the tops of the forest trees.
Digitized by
Google
370
POM£T OF 1807 — 8.
1807. Octr/ 5. At
10.
14.
15.
At
12. At
At
At
b # *
6 39 0
51 30
7 15 0
7 0
13
6 31
48
6 34
53
6 39
0
0
0
0
0
0
a
Comet from Arcturus.
from * Lyrx.
from £ Herculis.
frotft f Herculis.
from « Lyrse.
"• from * Lvrx.
from Jupiter,
from * Lyrx.
from Jupiter,
from « Lyrx.
20 52
5
54 42 10
31 32 55
24 59 20
47 53 40
45 20
7
76 11
8
. 42 47 20
. 75 13
0
. 41 33
0
The comet was dim this evening, caused by a mist or smoke
which obscured the lower parts of the atmosphere, and became
anrisible before any more observations could be taken.
16th. At 6* S7r 0" Comet from * Lyrx.
40° 17' 10"
The atmosphere was again so misty, or rather smoky, that
no more observations could be taken : the cause of the smoky
state of the atmosphere at this season, in our country, is the
setting fire to the dry gras9 of the immense prairies or savan-
nahs, and pine wood forests, in our neighbourhood ; the smell
of the burning pine, and other resinous aromatick vegetable
matters is sometimes very strong, although the conflagrations
which occasion it, are not supposed to be nearer than from 50 to
100 miles: dense clouds are frequently formed of the smoky
vapour, from whence proceed violent tempests, with thunder
and lightning, and torrents of rain of a brownish black colour*
h f m o ♦# •
17. At 6 41 0 Comet from * Lyrx. . *. 39 4 25
$5 0 from Jupiter. . . 73 55 15
18. At 6 52 30 0 Herculis. . . 5 46 35
7 5 30 from « Coronx. . 12 46 45
The apparent length of the comet's tail was this evening
about 2° 43' 30".
1807- Octr. 23. At
24. At 6
Novr. 5. At
6 19 30 Comet from * Lyrx. . . 31 59 20
38 30 from « Coronx . 14 26 50
51 30 from # Herculis. . 0 47 55
26 30 from « Coronx. . 14 58 40
37 30 from « Lyrx. . • 30 50 30
54 30 from 0 Herculis. . 1 30 15
7 22 30 from Jupiter. . . 71 17 0
6 36 0 from « Lyrx. . . 17 38 50
49 0 from Jupiter. . . 67 49 10
Digitized by
Google
COMET OF 1807— »• 871
The splendor and apparent magnitude of the comet visibly
diminish; the nucleus seems reduced to little more than half its
first observed magnitude.
b t *
o # •
6 42 0
7 17 0
6 30 0
6 45 0
Comet from * Lyrae.
from « Aquilat.
below at Lyrae.
below * Aquilae.
5 20 32
. 34 50 48
1 30 20
33 56 0
17. At
81. At
December 6th. Indisposition prevented observation for some
time past. This evening being tine, I directed the reflecting tele-
scope to the comet; the nucleus is now much diminished in appa-
rent magnitude; I compared it with a star of the sixth magnitude
in the Swan, which was within the field of view at the same time,
their apparent diameters were nearly equal, but the comet is
become so dim, as to be seen by the naked eye only in a pure
atmosphere, with favourable circumstances: the weather being
cold and damp, my state of health did not permit taking any
distances: the coma is yet considerable, but the tail is no longer
visible, one would be inclined to say, as the comet recedes
from the sun, that the tail is called in /(as it were) to add to the
magnitude of the coma; for certainly the latter is but very little
diminished in proportion to the nucleus.
In order to supply my own deficiencies, I shall here intro-
duce the observations of Mr. Pease (on whose correctness I
place the greatest reliance) during the time my o\yn were in-
terrupted by ill health.
Observations by Mr. Pease.
1807. Novp. 21. At 6 51 35 Comet below « Lyrae. . 1 29 30
58 20 from * AquiTae. -• 33 55 0
22. At 6 47 15 from « Aquil*. . 33 46 15
7 39 15 from * Cygni. • . 24 15 45
7. 44 15 left of « Lyrae, below. 0 38 25
24b At 6 44 42 from « Aquilae. . 33 31 30
58 42 above * Lyrae. . . 1 35 30
30. At 6 31 7t below * Cygni. 16 44 45
36. 7 * from « Aquilae. . 33 27 35
Deer. 16. At 6 44 32 below * Cygni. . 2 44 45
49 32 to the right of *> Cygni. 5 18 45
18. At 7 11 38 to the right of y Cygni. 6 7 45
27 38 below * Cygni. . 1 16 30
19. At 6 22 0 The Comet was to the right of * Cygni 51'
Digitized by
Google
372 comet op 1807 — 8.
h r *
« ' +
180r. Deer.
22.
At
6 47 0
Comet above « Cygni.
2 23 15
59 0
from y Cygni.
. 8 26 45
7 6 0
from t Cygni. «
, 12 43 45
24.
At
6 47 44
from * Cygni* .
from Polaris*
. 3 54 30
7 8 44
. 42 46 30-
30.
At
7 30 0
from * Cygni.
8 21 20
31 0
from Polaris* •
. 42 9 0
1808. Jany.
1.
At
8 30 0
from Polaris.
. 41 56 30
39 0
from « Cygni.
. 9 50 30
The comet now became too obscure to make any observa-
tions upon it, with the sextant, although Mr Pease has given
two of the evening of the 22d of January, which he says are
true only to five or six minutes, as follows,
22. about 7* Comet from « Cygni. . . . 23° 18'
from Polaris* . . < * 40 31
The observations which follow are extracted from my own
journal.
January 5th. The comet is no longer visible to the naked
eye; though having pointed the telescope to its calculated place,
I discovered it a little to the S. E. of » 2 Cygni ; but this star
was not near enough in declination, to take the comparative
position of the comet, with the micrometer of the reflecting tele-
scope, in the manner pointed out by Dr. Maskelyne: however, as
an approximation is often desirable, I directed to the comet and
star, a very good small achromatic telescope, magnifying eleven
times, and found that the two objects were distant from each
other about two thirds of the diameter of the iield of view of
the telescope, and having placed the comet and star across the
center of the field, and opening the left eye, I found that a
line joining the star and comet, produced, would pass through
9 Pegasi; the angle of the field of view of the telescope having
been ascertained to be 2° 1 8' 26", two thirds of which are
1° 32' 18" the distance of the comet from » 2 Cygni in the
direction » Pegasi; from whence a good approximation of the
place of the comet may be deduced. Note, the sjar » 1 Cygni
is marked in Wollaston's catalogue, of the fourth magnitude
and » 2 Cygni of the fifth magnitude, but * 2 is now the larg-
er; the stars ought, therefore, to change designations.
The nucleus of the comet is yet to be distinguished by the
reflecting telescope, but as small as a star of the seventh mag-
Digitized by
Google
COMET OF 1807 — 8. 373
nitude, seen by the naked eye; the coma seems diminished
more than half of its appearance, on the 6th of December, and
the nucleus is equally surrounded by it on all sides, without
any trace of tail, and so faint as very much to resemble some
of the nebulae.
January 15th. Since the fifth instant the weather has been
unfavourable for viewing the heavens; this evening is very se-
rene and freezing; after a little search, I found the comet with
the telescope, between two small stars in Lacertae. the position
of the comet was again unfavourable for finding its relative
place by the micrometer of the reflecting telescope, but having
armed my small achromatic telescope with one of Cavallo's
pearl micrometers, I took the distance of the comet from two
small stars, the angle at the comet being nearly a right one, as
follows:
At 7* 0* Corned N. easterly from 5 Lacertae 1° 14' 12" of the 4th— 5th magnitude,
7 5 Comet S. easterly from 4 Lacertae 1 24 48 * of the 5th magnitude.
The uncertainty may be between one and two minutes.
In the great telescope, the comet is yet sufficiently conspi-
cuous; the nucleus visible like a star of the eighth magnitude,
in our purest atmosphere, and the coma but little changed since
the 5th instant.
January 17th. The last evening was cloudy and rainy, but
the weather cleared up mild this evening, which enabled me
to direct the same instrument with the pearl micrometer to the
place of the comet, which was very obscure, though I succeed-
ed in making the following observations :
At 7* 0' Comet S. easterly from 7 Lacertae 2° 2' 58" of the 4th magnitude,
7 S Comet N. easterly from 5 Lacertae 2 5 5*
The uncertainty may be the same as on the 15th.
February 25th. From the 17th of last month the weather
continued long unfavourable, and I despaired of again seeing
the comet; but thinking it of importance to get a view of
it once more, in a more distant part of its orbit, I search-
ed with great diligence and some anxiety, and at length found
an object which .1 had no doubt was the comet, situated be-
tween I Cassiopeae and o Cassiopese; but as the objects were
Digitized by
Google
374 comet of 1807— 8.
now descending upon the tops of the forest trees, I had not
time to complete my estimate of its place that evening, but
marked particularly its position with regard to certain stars both
in the field of the large telescope, and in the finder; the comet
was not visible in the last, but its position was known by the
intersection of the cross-wires, which coincided exactly with
the center of the field of the telescope, reserving to myself the
ascertainment of its place by the aid of those stars, in case the
comet could not be again discovered.
For many days the weather was extremely unfavourable, and
when it cleared up, I discovered the stars which had been no-
ted, both in the field of the great telescope, and in the finder,
but the comet had removed, and though diligently searched
for along its supposed path, was seen no more. I now looked
out for some known star, which might pass over the field of
view of the telescope after the place of the comet, so as to be
enabled to determine their difference in R. A. and declination;
but none was to be found which would pass in any convenient
sfftce of time, and the place of the comet being now very iovy
in tfte evening, I was obliged to make haste to approximate in
the best manner now in my power; hoping in the course of
some months to examine the subject again, when the part of
the heavens where the comet disappeared should be conveni-
ently seen in the eastern portion of the hemisphere.
The place where the comet was last seen, is in the line join-
ing the stars $ and o Cassiopeae, and the difference of the co-
met's place in R. A. from o Cassiopese was found, from obser-
vation, to be 96 seconds in time; from whence we deduce the
comet's place on the 25th of February at 8* to have been
8° 7' 6" in R. A. and 48° 30' 58" north declination. This is
given only as an approximation.
Digitized by
Google
( 375 >
No. LV.
A Letter from Captain William Jones, of Philadelphia, to the Pre-
sident of the Society, communicating sundry queries proposed by
him to William Jones Esquire, Civil Engineer of Calcutta, rela-
tive to the principles and practice of building in India, with his
answers to the same.
Read June 17th, 1808.
Pluladelphia, June Mth, 1808.
Dear Sir,
WHEN in Calcutta, I had the pleasure to become ac-
quainted with Mr. William Jones, whose profession is that of
a civil engineer, and who at the time was employed in con-
structing a dry dock of great capacity, calculated to receive a
man of war when the water of the Ganges was at the lowest.
He is distinguished as a man of genius, of much philosophi-
cal knowledge, and of great practical experience in all the
branches connected with his profession. He regretted that the
urgency of his pursuits precluded him from rendering his re-
marks more perfect and comprehensive than the papers here-
with enclosed ; and proffered a correspondence with me on any
subject which I might deem interesting.
Should the Society desire information, from that quarter, on
any subject of philosophy, natural history, or the mechanic
arts, I will cheerfully avail myself of his kind offer.
You will perceive that Mr. Jones has said nothing relative
to public roads — he did not consider the manner of construct-
ing them in that country as applicable to this.
I know not whether there is any thing in the communication
I have to make, that will be new or interesting to the Society;
if not, I trust the desire to be useful will constitute my claim
to indulgence.
I am, very respectfully, yours,
WILLIAM JONES.
Digitized by
Google
316 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OP *
Copy of a letter from William Jones of Philadelphia, to William Jones
Esquire, Civil Engineer, of Calcutta.
Calcutta, December 26th, 1807.
My .DEAR SIR,
Your obliging assent to my solicitation for a memorandum
of the manner of constructing a terrace rocf in this country, and
a desire to avail myself of such information relative to the arts
of other countries, as may be useful in my own, prompts me
to ask of you a brief communication of the principles and prac-
tice of building in India, with such observations as your expe-
rience may suggest.
I look for indulgence, in the liberality of sentiment and love
of science and the arts, which general suffrage has attached to
your character. A desire of individual information alone, could
not have induced me to trespass on time and attention so assi-
duously and usefully employed, but my intention is, to present
your communication to the American Philosophical Society at
Philadelphia, which will unite with its associate in a just sense
of the obligation.
A knowledge of the composition of cements, and of the qua-
lity and combination of materials employed in architecture in
India, the excellence of which has been consummated by the
lapse of ages, is an object of great interest in America. The
structure of public roads is no less so : I am told there are some
very excellent in India; any information on that subject, with
a view to economy, durability, and a solidity impervious to
intense frost, will be highly acceptable.
I beg leave to present a few queries connected with the ob-
ject in contemplation. — They are suggested by the local cir-
cumstance of climate and architecture in America.
1st. What are the materials, and what is the quality of the
cement, used in constructing the walls of buildings in India?
2d, Are the walls below the surface, of the same materials?
3d. What is the thickness of the exterior, as well as of the
interior walls, in proportion to the elevation?
4th. What are the component parts of the plaister of the ex-
terior and interior walls?
Digitized by
Google
BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 377
5th. How, and of what materials, is the roof formed ?
6th. What is the thickness of the terrace on the roof, the
process of laying it, and the composition of the materials?
7th. What are the proportionate dimensions, and what is the
relative strength to oak timber, of the beams which sustain the
roof?
8th. Is the thickness of the walls deemed necessary to sus-
tain the incumbent weight of the roof alone, or is it partly to
resist heat — or is the extraordinary thickness in consequence of
the fragile quality of the brick ?
9th. Do you think a roof so constructed capable of resisting
the intensity of the frost in North America ?
10th. Is a horizontal roof, so constructed, capable <of sustain-
ing any great additional weight, such as the superincumbent
weight of snow, which, in America, is frequently three or four
feet deep?
1 1th. How, and of what materials are the floors constructed;
and what is the quality and thickness of the cement which
forms the floor ?
12th. What is the proportionate elevation of the ceilings?
13th. What is the quality, and what are the component
parts of the water cement, used in India, and of the celebrated
cement and plaister used at Madras*?
14th. Is shell or stone lime preferred, and does the lime of
India possess any intrinsic superiority over the shell or stone
lime of Europe or America ?
15th. Does sugar, molasses, or animal or vegetable oils, form
a part of any of the cements used in India ?
16th. I am told that the iron exclusively used in the fasten-
ing of all ships built in India, (even that which secures the
sheathing boards) is completely protected from the corrosive
effects of the copper, by the coat of Chunam [lime and animal
or vegetable oil thoroughly amalgamated] one fourth of an inch
thick, which is between the main plank and the sheathing boards,
and also between the latter and the copper sheathing; and that
the iron of coppered ships has been found in perfect preserva-
tion after ten years* service. Do these facts come within your
knowledge ?
Digitized by
Google
378 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF
17th. Is the quantity of manual labour necessarily implied
in any of the foregoing queries, such as to forbid the adoption
of the practice in America, (where the command of that force
is extremely limited and expensive) or can the difficulty be
obviated, in any degree, by the employment of other agents ?
1 will not reiterate my apologies, but assure you of the sin-
cere pleasure I shall derive from any occasion you may find
to command my services,
I am very respectfully
and sincerely yours,
WILLIAM JONES.
To WILLIAM JONES Esq.
Seibpore, near Calcutta,
Answers to 17 Queries propounded by William Jones of Philadelphia,
to William Jones Esq. Civil Engineer, qf Calcutta.
1st. Buildings in Bengal are generally constructed of bricks,
formerly nine inches, but now eleven inches in length ; — the
additional size saves the cement, which is dearer than bricks.
The cement is made of two parts brick dust, one part sand,
and one part stone lime — brick dust, alone, would be preferred,
but sand being cheaper is used. The mortar is mixed .in the com-
mon way, but the bricks are laid like what the masons call.
grouted work, which is done by laying the outward courses first,
and then filling up the middle space with bricks, small and large,
swimming in water and cement, so that no crevice remains
open.
Arches, columns, &c. are made with cement, two parts brick
dust and one part lime, all sifted fine. The bricks are dipped in
water separately as they are laid, for which purpose a vessel of
water is placed between every two workmen.
2d. The walls below the surface are of the same materials as
those above, but some people, regardless of the expense, lay one
course, just above the floor, in lime and oil, the whole thickness
of the wall, and afterwards continue the building in the com-
mon way — this forever prevents damp from rising.
Digitized by
Google
BUILDINGS IN INDIA. $19
Sd. The interior as well as the exterior walls are all of the same
thickness, because our houses sink altogether about six inches,
or more, and the partition walls in a terrace roof have to sustain
their share of the weight with the outer ones. We build the
lower story two feet six inches, the second two feet, and the
third one foot six inches thick; but you may build your first
story two feet, the second one foot nine inches, and the third
one foot six inches thick; as you may use bond timber, from
which we are precluded by the ravages of the white ant.
4th. The exterior plaistering is made of three parts washed
sand, and one of stone lime, laid on in the common way, but
rubbed with a small bit of wood until it sets — the joints are first
well opened with a bit of crooked iron.
The inside work is done the same way, and with the same
materials, and when dry, coated with shell lime. The shells are
cleaned before they are burnt, and when taken from the kiln,
the whole are cleaned and picked from the dust (which is a dirty
lamina, that falls off in the calcination) and put into a trough,
where they are triturated and slacked with a little water, and
when mixed to a thick consistence, deposited in earthen jars,
or other vessels, for use.
When to be used, a bed of sand or clay is made on the
ground, hollow in the middle, and covered with coarse cloth. The
lime is strained through a fine cloth that is placed about two
or three feet above, the bed. — It is mixed with clean water,
in order to pass the fine parts in solution through the strainer —
the coarse is rejected. It must lie three or four days on this
bed to cool, before it is used, or the work will crack. It is mix-
ed with a sufficient proportion of milk that has undergone a
fermentation by leven, so that the whole is in a curd, without
any whey. Of this material the quantity is ascertained by mixing
a little and plaistering on a tile.— In fine work, the white of
eggs is used in large quantities, and in some cases a small quan-
tity of calcined agate, pulverised — but this kind of work will
never answer in your country, as the labour is very expensive.
It is the work of many days after the plaister is on, to rub and
wipe it; otherwise it would crack on the surface, and so long
as a crack appears, the rubbing must be continued.
Digitized by
Google
380 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF
The wall will sweat for several days; but the water must be
constantly wiped off with fine, clean cloths, or the whole .work
will turn red. A wall finished in this way may be washed with
soap and water; but when the plaister breaks, it is not easy to mend
it without the patch being visible. Stucco walls will answer
much better in America, and would be used here if we had
the plaister,
5 th. The roof is formed by simply laying beams of wood
from wall to wall, in the shortest direction, three feet from cen-
tre to centre. Upon these beams are laid transverse pieces of
wood, three by two inches thick, to support the tiles or bricks.
We use twelve inch tiles, and lay the transverse pieces of ^vood
so that the tiles join in the middle. Our tiles are one and a half
inches thick, and are laid in two courses, well bedded. The up-
per course must break or cover the joints of the lower, thus,
8
The roof is then ready to receive the terrace. The transverse
pieces of wood are not nailed, but the spaces between are fill-
ed up with mortar and bits of brick tile &c. so that they can-
not shift.
6th. The terrace is six inches thick, when finished, at the
middle, and about four inches at the outer walls, independent
of the tiles and wood. Wherever it is determined to deliver the
water, there must be gentle descents towards those places com-
ing to a narrow focus at the spout. The composition is broken
brick, the pieces about four cubic inches, or just as it happens
to break; they must not be too small, or the terrace will be li-
able to crack.
Take the broken bits, dust and all, as they lie for use — measure
the whole and count the number of measures of any kind — spread
it one foot or thicker, on the ground — level and water it well,
turning it over at the same time. This deprives' the brick of its
over absorbent power.
For every three measures of broken brick, you must use one
of the same measure of good stone lime, giving only one third
at a time, watering and turning it every day for four days;
Digitized by
Google
BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 381
the three first days you divide the lime, giving a part each day
with a little shell lime mixed with water. — It is now ready to
be carried up to the roof, where it is to be expeditiously spread
in the shape you want it, and the beating business commences.
On a small roof you must employ at least fifty people, women
and children will answer, with a few bricklayers, constantly,
to see that the materials are laying right. They must all sit
down on any thing you find convenient, and continue beating
sharply and hard for three days, with a piece of wood about
three by two inches thick, and sixteen inches long, handle and
all, shaped thus,
The substance must be constantly wetted, taking care that
the lime be not washed out. At the end of three days, the hard
beating must be abated (as the work is beginning to set) and
the watering diminished.
For two days more, the beating must be only a little constant
patting, very liglit, but the fourth day, all the rough face must
be filled up with bits of brick, not more than half a cubic inch
in size, with the fine dust sifted out; this last must be well mix-
ed with lime, one third its quantity, and rubbed with plenty
of water all over the terrace, and a little shell lime added; while
this is thin and soft, the beating must be constant, but very light,
merely paddling in it with the beaters; as it becomes dry, the
beating may be increased to a tolerable sharp blow, constantly
filling up every inequality. The sixth day, the surface must be
covered with fine brick dust and lime, as before, and the padd-
ling or gende beating recommenced, adding a little of the juice
of the sugar cane, or you may use molasses. At nine days end
it ought to be finished, but you had better, in your climate,
continue it thirteen days, as patience in this case will afterwards
reward you. If it should rain often it will make the business
more tedious, and if the rain be heavy you must cover the work
with something, or the lime will be washed out. When the
beaters rebound from the terrace as if they struck stone, and
the sound is clear, you may conclude it js done.
Digitized by
Google
382 ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF
Keep a few people for five or six days, rubbing the surface
with water, lime and molasses mixed, so long as a crack ap-
pears, and afterwards rub the whole over with any common oil.
It is difficult to describe this process, but a little experience will
point out what is necessary.
7th. The annexed table of the gravity and strength of wood
will inform you.
Result of experiments made on the weight and strength of timber
used in Bengal.
The pieces on which the experiments were made, were each
square prisms, twenty-four inches long, and one inch on die
side; the distance between the props of support was twenty-two
inches, and the weight was suspended from the center of the
piece.
Weight of Weight sospeiufaf
Names of the wood each piece. when it broke,
oz. ft oz.
.Teak. - - - - 11 - - - - 44^13
ITissoo. ... 124- --- - 459 5
gJSaul. .... IS - - - - 535 124.
'3 jAssum, like Saul. 13.J. - - - - 539 9
* ( Soondry. - - - 15^ - - - - 593 9
\Napaul Fir. - - 94. - - - - 389 0
'Baltic red Fir* 10 - - - - 340 9
^Ditto white Firf 7 - - - - 214 13
Very dense and full of rosin. f In general use.
N. B. A quantity of pure water, of the same bulk with one
of the' above pieces of wood would weigh 13.J. ounces. Hence
they would all float in water except the Soondry.
You must not use knotty or curled wood for your beams,
and all beams must be rounded or cambered upwards, in the pro-
portion of two inches to twenty feet, as the terrace will bring
them down a little.
In a twenty-two feet space, Saul beams, ten by seven or eight
inches, are quite sufficient, placed at three feet from centre to
centre.
Digitized by
Google
BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 383
We remove beams when rotten without injury to the terrace.
The wall-hold is generally six inches less than the thickness
of the wall.
8th. In the thickness of the wall, resistance to heat is not
considered. Strength is alone considered. We cannot, as I re-
marked before, use any bond timber or ties of any kind on
account of the destructive vermin.
The bricks contain much sand, salt, alkali, and other fusible
matter, and will vitrify before they are well burnt.
You have seen many walls thicker than the dimensions I
have given, but those are built with brick and mud, and having
no cement require to be thicker.
9th. If you begin your work early, so that it will be com-
pletely dry, it will resist any frost, but if any moisture remain
within, the frost will rend the work.
10th. Add a little strength to your timber, make the para-
pet low, take care before a thaw to throw off the snow, keep
the spouts open, and it will sustain double (or more) the weight
you mention.
1 1th. The floors the same as the roof, but a little lighter, and
not so much cove.
• 12th. Stick to the common and ancient rules of architecture
in all cases; but doors and windows, make them much larger.
13th. Water cement is made of brick dust, lime, and the
juice of the sugar caneT The Madrass plaister is as I before de-
scribed ours.
14th. Stone lime is cheap and used for common purposes,
shell lime is dear and only used with fine work ; I belies it
is no better than your own.
15th. No further than I have before described.
16th. These facts do come within my knowledge, and are
true. It forms a crust impervious to water, and must protect \
any thing it covers. When dry, it will keep a ship afloat after
her caulking is perished and loose.
Much oil is saved in making this article by bestowing labour
on the beating and mixing of it.
17th. Where manual labour is an objection I have stated it.
e e
Digitized by
Google
{ 38* )
No. LVI.
Observations on the foregoing communications, by B. Henry La-
trobe, Surveyor of the public buildings of the United States, and
one of the Committee to w/iom it was referred by the Society.
Copying the English standard, the bricks of the United
States are very generally made 84- inches long, 4-J. inches
broad, and c2^ inches thick; so that in the wall with the joint,
they shall teke up nine inches in length, and half as much,
viz. 44, in breadth; but the various degrees in which different
sorts of clay shrink in drying and burning, occasion here, as
well as every where else, variety in the size of the bricks ; and
I have scarcely ever known bricks, from two different kilns
in the same city to work correctly together. The cupidity of
the brick-makers contributes also to the diminution of the size
of bricks in Philadelphia; a wall two bricks thick seldom mea-
sures, with the joint, more than 17 inches; a brick-and-half wall,
barely 13 inches, and 5 courses in heighth, with the joints,
measure one foot. — This gradual diminution m the size of
bricks is rather encouraged, than counteracted, by the interest
of the bricklayers: — for, as it is the general practice for indivi-
duals, as well as public bodies, to find all their materials, and to
pay the mechanic only for the labour, and as it is a very gene-
ral practice to pay the bricklayer by the 1000 bricks, accord-
ing to the brick-maker's account ; or to count them on the out-
side of the wall, where they all pass for whole bricks and lie
closest, it follows that in a given mass of wall, the small bricks,
upon the whole, tell better than the large ones ; and in both
cases, especially the first, the bricklayer is not interested against
admitting small bricks to be made.
On the other hand, the brick-maker in burning his bricks as
well as in selling them by count, is benefitted; for small bricks
can be burned at less expense of fuel than large bricks, and are
less liable to warp and break. I am of opinion that great
advantages would result from making our bricks larger than
Digitized by
Google
ON BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 385 x
the usual standard; not only in the saving of labour, but of
mortar, which here, as in India, is the most expensive part of
the wall. The width of a brick should not be greater, than
that a man can very easily and conveniently grasp it ; and
although Mr. William Jones has not given information as to
the width of the Calcutta brick, (which is of more importance
to the workman than its length) I am of opinion that the best
possible size of a brick is the following,
1 1 inches long as in Calcutta, '
5± wide J>when burned.
2^ thick.
>
Such a brick would add 2\. inches to our single brick walls,
and in most cases permit them to take the place of walls now
built of 1 £. bricks. A brick-and-half wall, in the fronts of our
middling houses, would give room for the window-dressings and
shutters; and, in a two-brick wall, there would be no necessity
of making thicker the walls of our best houses for this purpose.
This is not the place to enter into further details. Practical
builders can easily investigate the results from sqch a change;
in the size of our bricks ; out it will be difficult to be effected,
while the astonishing increaseof our buildings gives to the brick*
makers such an influence over all our building operations.
1 Use of brick dust in mortar.
In his answer to the 8th Query, Mr. William Jones has the
following remark :
The bricks contain much sand, salt, alkali, and other fusible mat-
ter, and will vitrify before they are well burned.
We ipight then consider the brick dust, made by pound-
ing the bricks of Calcutta, as so much sharp sand, and as hav-
ing lost that contractility which clay unverified by the admix-
ture of vitrescible substances, and unhardened by fire, universally
possesses. In this state, it might be an unobjectionable ingredient
in cement in America. But as it is evident from the process of
laying on the chunam internally, and also from the beating
required upon the materials of their terraces, that their brick
dust is not generally in this hardened state, when mixed with
Digitized by
Google
386 LATROBES OBSERVATIONS
the mortar, but that it continues to contract, and to requite
forcible compression by beating or rubbing until it is quite dry,
it becomes, on more than one account, a yery noxious as well
as a very inconvenient ingredient in ail cements, to be used
where there is frost, and where labour is dear.
I should be obliged to write a voluminous treatise on this
subject, were I to submit to you all that my experience, as well
as my reasonings suggest, to counteract the prejudice in favour
of the use of brick dust in cements north and south of the tro-
pics. Its utility beyond the reach, of frost, I need not examine.
It would be useless to establish or to refute it in our region of
severe winter. I will therefore only endeavour to comprize, in
as small a compass as possible, what may be useful to our own
citizens.
Belidor, Blondel* Sturm, Smeaton, Higgins, Adams, and
many other French, German, English and Italian writers have
all recommended brick dust in some cement or other. I have
none of their works at hand, so as to refer to their receipts or their
experiments, and n<^ doubt their cements have possessed all the
qualities ascribed to them, when the brick dust has been pre-
pared of well burned bricks. I have also seen brick dust em-
ployed by engineers and architects whom I have personally
known, and have employed it myself; but I do not recollect
a single instance of the cement in which it has been used hav-
ing resisted the effect of moisture and frost. Natural argillaceous
stones are more apt to be forced to pieces by frost than any
others.* Bricks not sufficiently burned are always destroyed
by frost. The effects of frost on the natural clay of the earth is
well known, — it renders our roads almost impassable in spring.
It seems therefore, to plain sense, a conclusive argument against
the use of this material in cements, that wherever we see it pre-
sent in any natural or artificial production, its dissolution by
frost is certain.
• The freestone of Acquia, however, appears to be sand cemented by an alluminous (ar-
gillaceous) infusion'. Some of it is dissolved by the frost, but the best stone resists it most
perfectly. Water oozing through this stone covers the face of the rock with allum. I have
not been able to detect in this sand stone any particle of calcareous matter. Its smell when
moist is strongly earthy. See my memoir in the Philosphical Transactions, on this stone*
page 283 of this Volume. » s
Digitized by
Google
ON BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 387
If however the clay be hardened by being converted into a
vitrified, or otherwise solid brick, then indeed it ceases to be
under the dominion of frost, and is at all events, I should sup-
pose, as good as so much sand. It remains to be enquired by
chemical investigation, whether some affinity between clay,
thus hardened, and lime does not exist, which expelling in their
union their caloric, combines the two substances more intimately
and in a smaller compass, than that of lime mixed with sand .;
arid, of course, gives to the coiApound more hardness, and .
permanent continuity. If such affinity does exist, which I will not
deny, such brick dust is so far superior in quality, as an ingre-
dient of cements, to sand. But it is, I think, far counterbalanced
by its other quality of infinite contractibility and expansion. Clay,
in, its purest state, is used in Wedge wood's pyrometer, on account
of this very quality, which it appears never to lose ; and from
thence arises the perfection of this most useful instrument.
When the cement, of which brick dust is an ingredient, is laid
on in a moist state, it Qccupies in some cases (for I have last
year had much unpleasant experience of the fact in the floors
laid in Deniroth's cement at Washington) 4. more space than
when dry. On a wall exposed to heat, or upon a timber floor
accessible, and' at first pervious to the air, there appears to be a
limit to the contraction of the cement. But in a heavy vaulted
building, like the Capitol of the United States, at least, the
moisture of which evaporates slowly, I would reject brick dust
altogether as an ingredient of any kind of cement, either for
mosaic .floors, terraces, or facings. Full justice appeared to be
dfcne by the contractor and patentee, in beating his floors both as
to time and labour, but after a year's drying they have cracked
into innumerable fissures.
From what I have said, it will be evident/that I consider
brick dust as an ingredient in cements, inapplicable to our cli-
mate and of course useless.
Good clean' washed sand, and stone lime, in the proportion of
three of sand and one of lime, up to six to one, according to the
size of the particles of sand, and the goodness of the lime, is a ce-
ment that will never fail, if well mixed and worked, and laid
on as soon as possible after being mixed. The lime in slack*
Digitized by
Google
388 LATR0BES OBSERVATIONS
ing should be perfectly drowned in water, and the fluid strained
and run into a pit, from whence, after remaining if necessary
during a whole winter, or more, it may be cut out hot, as
smooth as custard, and capable of receiving a very great pro-
portion of sand without becoming harsh and brittle. All sub-
stances containing a quantity of carbon combined with oxy-
gen, are highly useful ingredients ; such as skim-milk, whey,
molasses, skimmings of sugar pans, sugar, vinegar, beer, wine
lees, all sorts of washings of breweries, distilleries, and sugar
houses. These substances, by giving their carbon to the lime,
convert the cement into a calcareous sand stone in a more
expeditious manner, than by any process dependent upon at-
traction from the atmosphere. But though blood, oils, and curds
have been recommended, the animal or vegetable mucilage
they contain is injurious to their durability. The celebrated
cement of Adams, of which oil was a considerable ingredient,
after standing with every appearance of permanence for some
years, began then to fail, and actions being brought against
Jhim by Lord Stanhope (Mahon) and others upon his warran-
tee, this artist, so deservedly considered as one of the brightest
ornaments of the English school, was ruined in fortune, by the
damages awarded against him.
Before I close my remarks on this cement, I will add, that
all cements of every kind acquire the quality of hardening in
.proportion to the working and beating they get, and no remark
can be more just than that of Mr, Jones, that " the patience
bestowed will amply reward you,"
2. and 3. Use of Timber in Walls.
In all professions, there are prejudices of practice, which
.become national. That of filling their walls with what they
pall bond timbers is one of those practices, which every English
architect receives by inheritance. The white ants have been
serviceable to architecture in expelling it from Bengal,
A piece of timber bedded in a wail can be of service, only
for the following uses :
1. If it be laid under the joists or timbers of a floor, it serves
to spread the weight equally along the wall ; or if under the
Digitized by
Google
ON BUILDINGS IN INDIA. 389
end of a girder, to give to the girder a broad base or bearing
upon the wall.
2. To tie the wall together lengthwise, in order to prevent
its spreading at the top.
When the foundation is equal, it is evident that bond tim-
bers become useless, excepting in the first case. — But it has
been customary in England to put them regularly into the walls,
from the bottom to the top, at the distance of several feet asun-
der; taking care that one piece shall be laid so as to receive the
skirting, another the surbase, &c. — A specimen of this practice
might have been seen in the north wing of the Capitol, in
which the bond timber had a considerable share in the failure
of the work, and in the necessity of a thorough rebuilding of
the interior.
Bond timbers do injury by the following means : A piece of
timber laid along the wall, takes up in its whole length the place
of solid materials. It is laid in wet mortar ; and the work above,
as the moisture descends, keeps it wet for some time. It swells.
It is on three sides inaccessible to the air. At last it dries with the
wall and shrinks. If the timber occupies less than half the thick-
ness of the wall, the wall will not follow it, the outer part being the
heaviest, but the timber occupying less space than before, be-
comes loose. In heavy buildings, being moist and excluded
from the air for a long time, it will probably be rotten before
that time. The plaistering that covers it will crack. In fact,
if it ever was useful, it ceases entirely to be so.
To prevent these timbers from moving outwards as they get
loose, they have some times been made thicker within the wall
than on their exterior side, sometimes they have been tied in
by short cross pieces. But all this does not remove the evil.
As to the convenience of bond timbers for fastening on the
the dressings — the same end may be much better accomplished
by driving in very dry oak plugs, after the building is finished
and dry.
If however the foundation be unequal, it is evident that the
tendency of one part of the wall to sink into a soft place while
the rest is supported by a harder part of the foundation can
only be resisted by timber strong enough to hold up the wall
Digitized by
Google
390 LATROBES OBSERVATIONS
that is over it. This is very inadequately done by timbers lying
at distances from each other only on the inside of the work.
Where there is such a foundation, it is infinitely better to com-
bine the strength of all these timbers, and, laying them in the
trench, to cover them well from the access of air, and build
the wall upon them. But piling is always the best thing that
can be done even if no very hard bottom can* be reached. —
Bond timbers ought never to be depended on.
I have already extended my remarks to a length which I
did not intend or foresee — and yet I cannot avoid adding to
them what I think necessary to meet the inclination, supported
by our Italian prejudices, 'which the very clear and able man-
ner in which Mr. Jones has described the Hindoo method of
constructing terraces might excite, to make further experiments
on the construction of flat roofs for our American houses.
In crowded cities, where the court yards are generally small
and buried from the light and air by tall houses, terraces on
the roofs are almost necessary, for the view and enjoyment of
the heavens, and for many domestic purposes. But they are
every where, excepting beyond the region of frost, the most
difficult and precarious part of the construction of the house.
Lead, copper, sheet-iron, tarred and sanded paper, calcareous
cements, all have been tried, all have had temporary success,
all have produced permanent inconvenience. The range of
the expansion and contraction of lead, together with the range
through 100 degrees of Fahrenheit's thermometer, to which our
climate is subject, renders lead an improper metal for the pur-
pose of a terrace. It is liable to be torn to pieces by its own
motion. — Copper is very expensive, and is soon corroded by
verdigrease. Iron requires constant painting, is sooner corroded
by rust, but is otherwise the most convenient material and the
cheapest. — Sand, tar, and paper, succeed better to the north-
eastward, than in the middle and southern States, but is not easily
or securely to be connected with gutters, and is a dirty sort of
covering. — Calcareous cements have in no instance as yet suc-
ceeded, and the smallest crack, admitting water in winter,
during the frost, is fatal to them.
Digitized by
Google
ON BUILDINGS IN INDIA, $91
Fortunately, we have no rational use for flat roofs. Our cities
are roomy, and our habits and their population will for many
centuries keep them so. Our houses are low and our yards
airy, I cannot conceive a single argument in favour either of
the beauty or utility of terrace roofs in our country. Those
that have them scarcely ever use them. The cold in winter
and the heat in summer drive us from them. A beautiful
prospect may justify the partial use of them, in particular situ-
ations, but neither architectural beauty, nor the general wants
of our wintry climate call for their introduction. — To the south-
ward beyond the reach of frost, however, the information con-
tained in this paper may be highly useful.
No. LVII.
A general method of finding the roots of numeral equations to any
degree of exactness ; xiuith the application of logarithms to sliorten
the operation : by John Garnett of New Brunswick N. Jersey.
Read January 20tb, 1809.
Suppose an equation, ax+bxz+cx3-f.dx4+ex* &c. = v, to find x.
RULE.
Find, by trial, any near root as x/
Then, b^ substitution, ax^bx^+cx'S-f dx'4+ex'5 &c. s V
Multiply each term by the index of the power of x', and divide by x'.
Let the products, a+2bx'+3cx'*+4dx3'4-5ex4, &c.=a A.
Multiply each term by the power of x', and divide by 2x'.
Let the products, b+3cx'+6dx'2+10ex'3, &c. = B.
Multiply each term by the power of x', and divide by 3x'.
Let the products, c+4dx'+10ex'a, &c. bs C.
Multiply each term again by its power of x% and divide by 4x'.
Let the products, d+5ex', ficc.—D : find so on, continually, until all the powers of x'
are destroyed ; so that e, Scc.=E.
Then will Ax" +Bx"» +Cx"3 +Dx"4 -f Ex"5 &c. as v-v', be a New Equation
whose roots will all be less by x', and the value, v— v7, less by v7 than the roota
of the original equation. And if the roots and value of this new equation be diminished
in the same manner, by another near root, as x"', and so on, continually, the root
and value may become less than any assignable quantity, and the sum of all the near
roots will lie equal to x, the coot of the original equation.
F
y
Digitized by
Google
392
RESOLUTION OF
This rule will be found virtually the same as that given by-
Newton, Raphson, Jones, Simpson &c. and, if applied to the
extraction of simple powers, will be found the same precisely
as the one usually given in common arithmetic, thus for
EXAMPLE I.
Ltt X3a
V-V
x'=400 -
By the Rule,
divisor
3x'« «• 480000— A
3x' — 1200 — B
1 — 1 - C
By the Rule.
A =» divisor
480000+2400x"+3x"*-634800.
B— 1200+3x — 1380.
C- 1-1.
99252847
64000000
35252847
28800000
4320000
216000
33336000
01916847
sxsx'*
X/as400
Resolvend.
New Equation x"«60
480000xx"
+1200xx"»
+1X x"3-*r— v:
Subtrahend
Resolvend
New equation xw«3
1904400 — 634800XX"'
12420— 1380 X x'"*
27 — 1 X *"'*
1916847 Subtrahend.
Whence X««x'+x"+x'" ~ 463, the required Root
This form will serve for all numeral equations, and with
nearly the same labour; as for
EXAMPLE II.
3x3+ 2x>— 5X a. v —
By the Rule, v— ▼' =
divisor
9 x'*+ 4x'— 5- 1441595 - A
9 *'+2 m. 3602 — B
3 «. 3-C
By the Rule,
divisor
9 x"2 + 7204 x" + 1441595 « 1665815
9 x + 3602 — 3872
3 « . 3
Hence, x s x' + x" + x'" =* 452.
242235792
192318000
49917792
43247850
3241800
81000
46570650
3347142
near root x'-»400
-3x73+2x'*— 5X7
Resolvend.
New equation x"««3G
— 1441595 X x"
— + 3602 X x"}
+ 3 X *"*—▼—▼'
Subtrahend*
Resolvend.
3331630
15488
24
3347142
000000
New Equation.
1665815 X x'"
+ 3872 X x'"»
+ 3 X x'"3 >
Subtrahend*
x"' - 2
,*_*'.- r"
Digitized by
Google
NUMERAL EQUATIONS.
393
By dividing the original equation by x — 432 = 0, die other
roots may be found, but in this case they are imaginary,*
But, instead of thus approximating to a root by single figures,
we can (after the root has been sufficiently diminished) find,
by a Table of Logarithms, as many places of figures at one
operation, as there are places of figures in the logarithms; as
in the following
EXAMPLE in.
Suppose X3 — 2x
then
By the Rule,
divisor.
3x' - 6C
i - O
x/g-2^
»5.
>4
new Root x' = 2
Retolvend 1
near Root x «,Q9
gives 10 x" + 6 x"2 + x"3 = 0,949329 Subtrahend.
Reaolvend 0,050671 =* v.
This being now sufficiently reduced we proceed thus:—
By the Rule,
New Equation.
3x"» + 12 x" + 10 a= 11,1043 (A)
3x» + 6 - X27 - B I V^*'" + 6'2r*'"* + *'f=.°™ri - V and by
reversion of series, x"
Then, by logarithms, V •
A i
v — a
d — a =
6,27 «b
b+c+d=
,050671
: 11,1043
X=r,00456319
A
V
A*
B
2* vz »,00001176
A3
Log.
Log.
Log.
t — — — V» + &C
A A3
8.704760
1.045492
7.659268
6.613776
0.797268
5.07031?
V B
V^sa X"' ca
A A3
,00455143. whence x s= 2.09455143
And if ,004551 be put for x"\ in the above new equa-
tion, the value and root would be again reduced, so that we
should obtain x"" = ,0000004815424, and consequently the
i30t x _ 2,0945514815424, true to the last figure.
Digitized by
Google
( 394 ) {
No. LVIIL
On the best angles for the sails of a windmill. By John Garnet t qf
New Brunswick, N. Jersey.
Read January 30th, 1809.
The angle of weather, or that angle which the section of the
vane^ at a given distance from the centre of motion, makes
with the plane of its motion, will depend on its proportionate
velocity to that of the wind ; some mean velocity of which is
generally assumed, to which the interior mechanism of the mill
is adapted ; supposing this at 12^. feet per second, which would
be called afresh gale, the Dutch mills, with the sails of 30 feet
radius, make about 13 revolutions per minute; in this case, the
extremity of the vane moves with nearly three times die velo-
city of the wind, and consequently, at 10 feet distance with
the same velocity as the wind; at 20 feet with twice the ve-
locity, being in a direct proportion to the distance from the
centre.
As different angles qf weather have been given by several
writers, as Parent De Moivre, Maclaurin and Simpson, Smea-
ton &c. and lately by Mr. Hall Gower, which have been
copied in the modern treatises on mechanics, as Gregory,
Grey &c. where errors may be of considerably consequence, I
will endeavour to shew ; the true principles, and .give a very
simple construction whiph will give the angle of weather on
either hypothesis.
Let the line WV represent the wind's direction and velo-
city ; SV, the direction spd velocity of any section of the vane
whose angle of weather i$ required ; then WS will be the rela-
tive direction and velocity of the wind to that part of the sail ;
and the angle WSV, will be the limit of ike angle of weather; for,
at this angle, the wind's relative direction being parallel to WS,
can have no effect, and at iany greater angle the vane would
be a back sail ; the angle *f weather therefore must be less than
WSV ; suppose it CSV; then WSC will be the relative angle qf,
incidence of the wind on the plane SC ; from W draw WC per*
pendicular to the plane SC, and from C draw CM perpendicular
Digitized by
Google
ON THE SAILS Of WINDMILLS* S95
to WV ; then WC will be the relative velocity and proporti-
onate force with which the wind strikes the vane perpendicu-
lar to its plane, which force being resolved into two forces WC
and cC, the first perpendicular to the plane of motion and
therefore of no effect, the last parallel to it and therefore re-
presents the effective force of every particle of wind to turn
the vane, when the force perpendicular to the plane is CW ;
now let any other angles of weather as VSB, VSA, be taken, then
will WSB, WSA be the relative angles of incidence ; BW, AW
the relative velocity and proportionate force perpendicular to
the plane of the sail ; and Bb, Aa the effective forces to turn
the vanes SB, SA ; whence it appears that these forces are or-
dinates to the chord WV, and if the force of the wind on the
vane were in the simple ratio of its relative velocity, or the num-
ber of impinging particles were invariable, as is the case in un-
dershot water wheels, as observed by Mr, Waring, in the third
volume of the Philosophical Transactions ; then the greatest
force would be SB, where the angle of weather VSB equally di-
vides the angle of limit WS V, which agrees with the theorem
given by Maclaurin, and Simpson, on the above supposition,
which to distinguish we may call " Waring' s hypothesis." But
if. the force be as; the square of the relative velocity ; describe a
semicircle on SW, and with the radius SD describe the arc D
RE cutting the plane SC in R from which draw RF, RG per-
pendicular to SW, SVV Then the proportionate force on any
■---.-.. WC2
point C perpendicularto the plane SS will be ; or (since R
RF2 . WV2
F, SN arehalves of CW, WV,) ; and as WC : cC or SR :
SN* RF2 RF2XRG
RG : : (the force perpendicular to; SC,) ; .
• • ^ •' SN2 SN2XSR
the whole effective force on each point of the plane SC, which
is the same as given by Maclaurin ftnd Simpson, and agrees
with their hypothesis.
But the same breadth of sail inclined to different angles of
weather will not intercept in equal current of wind ; the rela-
tive current being the parallelogram WZCP to flie plane CS,
Digitized by
Google
396 ON THE SAIL
the particles intercepted will be as CP ; or Rp on the plane S
RF2xRG
R, so that Rpx will represent the force on the plane
SN2xSR SR
SR, but SN : SD (— SR) : : RF : Rp = Rf x - therefore
' SN
RF3XRG
the whole effective force on the section SR will be ^
SN* .
•which by Simpson's fluxions vol. 2, Prob. 5 page 503, will be
a maximum when MN = i- SN. tiut if the whole effective
force according to Maclaurin and Simpson be as RF2xRG,(SR
and SN being constant) the maximum will then be when M N
4=^SN, . '
But supposing the angle of weather known for every pro-
portionate velocity of the sail to the wind, it still remains to be
determined what that proportion ought to be at the extremity
of the sail, as was justly observed by Mr. Smeaton ; who, in put-
ting Maclaurin'js theory to the test of experiment, assumed it as
two to one, but he found that by increasing the angle of weather
three and six degrees, the effect or product was still increasing,
although by increasing the angles of weather at every part Equally
they became no longer the angles of Maclaurin ; to have made
it decisive he should also have taken it as one and an half to
one ; and as one to oije, the forces from the theory continually
increasing, as these ratios diminish. Mr. Smeaton also appears
to have made an error by estimating the mean velocity of the
wind from the distance of the axis of his rotary machine from
the centre of his sails ; the force beipg as the squares of the
velocities, the mean should have been taken at a greater dis-
tance ; if this error be corrected, his conclusion that the extre-
mity of the sail should move with 2,7 times the velocity of the
wind, will probably be altered to less than double, and from
theory a sjower motion 9f the sails appears to be highly ad-
vantageous.
The angle of weather on eithfcr of these hypotheses is very
easily laid down by the following construction, from whence
some useful conclusions may be drawn.
Digitized by
Google
OF WINDMILLS. 397
Let WV represent the direction and velocity of the wind ;
SV, SV &c. that of the sail at those distances from the centre
of motion, and perpendicular to WV ; draw the parallel TW',
also NB' in the middle and MC' either at 4. ,the distance be-
tween N and S, according to Maclaurin's, or at 4. the distance,
by the last hypothesis. Then to find the angle of weather cor-
responding to any velocity or distance TW, draw SW, on which
describe a semicircle SVBW, and draw SC, SB, to where it meets
the parallels MC, NB'; then will CSV, be the angle of weather ac-
cording to Maclaurin, if at 4. distance; or according to the last hy-
pothesis, if MC be at 4- the distance between N and S; and BSV,
equal to half the angle of limit WS V, will be the angle of weather
according to Waring, if any constant portion of wind could be
intercepted ; and for Mr. Hall Gower's hypothesis, take TW',
as the whole length of the vane, and assuming apy angle at
the extremity as most advantageous, suppose TW'H = 10 de-
grees, then any other line drawn from.H, to any other distance
on TW',will shew the corresponding angle of weather ; but this
principle will be found evidendy erroneous.
The calculation of the different angles of weather is also much
easier from this construction, than from Maclaurin's theorem
for that purpose; for taking WV = 1, as the winds velocity;
then the sails* velocity TW is = contangent of the angle of
limit = twice the angle of weather according to Waring; and
either 4. or 4. the sine of the angle of limit SN, will give the
sine of the arc BC, which arc subtracted from the angle of limit
(BW =) BV will give die arc VC = twice the angle of weather ac-
cording to either of the two hypotheses. — By this method, the
following table is calculated shewing the different angles of
weather, and the effective force of the wind to turn the sail ;
but it must be understood that the proportionate velocity of the
extreme part of the sail to the wind can be assumed at pleasure,
if the interior mechanism be adapted to it ; the greater the an-
gle of weather the less will be the sails' velocity, but the force
greater; and also, on either hypothesis, if the same angle of wea-
ther be assumed at the extremity, the difference of all the other
angles would in practice be imperceptible, until we approach
towards the centre, where they approximate to either 30°, 33°
l&, 45° or 90°; the last, evidently erroneous.
Digitized by
Google
598
OK THE SAILS
coS
"3 II
CO
II
ceo
13
ID
•g u
a-a,
I
i
I
CO
I
S
i
2
o
©
ANGLES OF WEATHER*
EFFECTIVE FORCE.
RF.XRGu-SNi
O '
■ 6 ' *
O '
'"6""/'
0
30 0
35 16
45 0
90 0
25
24 20
28 33
38 59
63 26
50
18 26
23 4
31 43
45 0
75
14 46
18 50
26 34
33 41
100
12 10
15 41
22 30
26 34
125
10 14
13 15
19 20
21 48
150
8 48
11 31
16 51
18 26
175
7 42
9 46
14 53
15 57
200
6 48
9 0
13 15
14 2
250
5 33
7 21
10 54
U 18
300
4 40
6 12
9 13
9 28
1 ,3248
° 'j ,2300
18 0\1563
1,1X90
19 0,0950
1,0786
18 0,0668
|90581
16 0 ,0511
12 30 ,0414
7 |,0346
,3142
,2238
,1488
,1128
,0897
,0758
,0629
,0556
,0479
,0388
,0325
,1674
,1067
,0781
,0607
,0492
,0413
,0356
,0311
,0250
,0208
,0000
,0151
,0305
,0400
,0503
,0371
,0338
,0306
,0275
,0229
,0197
Digitized by
Google
OF WINDMILLS. 399
REMARKS.
1st. The most material consequence to be derived from the
above table is the great diminution of the effective force of
the wind, as the velocity of the sail increases; which shews,
that the sail-cloth should be placed as near the centre as pos-
sible, only observing that the wind must have a free escapement ;
for a square foot of sail, moving with half the velocity of the
wind, appears to have three times the effective power as when '
moving with double the wind's velocity; for the power of the
lever when time is considered must be out of the calculation ; this
also agrees frith Mr. Smeaton's experiments, who found, that
by enlarging the breadth of his sails, he gained more than by
increasing the radius. Probably the extremity of the sail should
not exceed the velocity of the wind; and as this will increase the
angle of weather 9 the wind will have a more free escapement, and its
reflections be less liable to impede the following sail : the angle of
reflection is easily seen from the relative angle of incidence, DSR.
2dly. That Mr. Hall Gower's hypothesis is highly disad-
vantageous; for by approximating to 90° at the centre it has
the least power, where it should have the most.
3dly. It appears evident from theory, and all Mr. Smeaton's
experiments, that the greater the angle of weather the slower
will be the motion ; therefore if by any simple contrivance the
angles of weather could be occasionally altered, it woujd be the
best mode of making the revolutions more uniform, and even
of stopping them altogether: I am now making an experiment
at large on this method.
4thly. Although the forces appear greatest in the first co-
lumn, from taking RF3xRG-*-SN3 as the measure, yet if the
RF*XRG
measure had been taken according to Maclaurin,
, sn*xsr
then the second column had shewn the greatest forces, and
the third column, if Bb was the true measure — but on no hy-
pothesis could Gower have any competition.
N. B. RF'xRG is a maximum when WCxcC is a maximum,
and RF,XRG is a maximum, when cWxcC is a maxium —
the-first when Wc is 4- of Wv, the last when Wc is -J. of WV;
the greatest right-angled triangle in the segment VBW.
. GS
Digitized by
Google
( 400 )
No. LVIIL
Extract from a paper on the Meteoric Stones, written by F. R. Hast-
ier Esq. Mathematical Professor in the Military School at West
Point.
Read June 17th, 1808.
THE first thing to be considered on the supposition that
these bodies are projected from the moon, is, whether the pow- ~
er exerted by any lunar volcano can be sufficient to throw a %
heavy body beyond the sphere of its predominant attraction,'
and of course enter that of the earth. This may be made a
subject of calculation on the following principles.
Heavenly bodies exercise an attractive power in the direct
ratio of their masses, and inverse ratio of the squares of their dis-
tances. Let A, M, and D, represent the attraction, mass, and
distance of the earth; a, m, d, those of the mooh; then the
M m
whole force exerted by the two bodies will be A : a :: — : — .
D* da
A body placed in circumstances most favourable to the hy-
pothesis would of course be between the two bodies, and in a
right line with the centers of both ; and in order to be merely
suspended in equilibrio between them, the two first terms/ of
this proportion must be equal to each other, and the two last
M m
must also be equal, that is, — = — .
D* d2
Now, taking M to be, in round numbers, equal to 70m, and
D+d equal to the distance of the moon from the earth=D, the
70m m
equation transformed becomes = — , from which <t is
D=dT da
D
found= ; but D=60xthe radius of the earth, which is,
1+^70
in round nunjbers, equal to the mean distance of the moon ;
Digitized by
Google
ON METEORIC STONES. 401
D 60 rad. earth
therefore =— = 6.406 x the radius of the
; 1+^70 9.366
earth; and multiplying by 3.67, the ratio of the radius of the
earth to that of the moon, d=23.5xradius of the moon, which
diminished by one radius of the moon, leaves 22£. times the
radius of the moon, or 24310.4 miles for the distance to which
a heavy body must be thrown by some internal power of the
moon, in order to remain suspended between the moon and earth.
According to the ratio of the quantity of matter in the moon
and earth, and the observed rate of falling of a heavy body at the
surface of the earth in the first second of time, the rate of falling
at the surface of the moon is equal to 3.018 feet. Now, let
g=this rate=3.018, s=the distance to which the body must
be thrown=24310.4 miles; V=the initial velocity, or the ve-
locity which the body must have at leaving the surface of the
moon, then V=2Vgs= 39 364.3 feet, or about 74. miles per
second, or more than ten times the velocity of the moon in its
orbit. Can we believe that there exists in the moon any internal
power, capable of producing this effect? When we consider
how small the attraction of gravitation is at the moon, would
not the existence of such a projectile force prove in the lapse
of ages, destructive to that body? And when centuries, and even
thousands of years have passed away without any diminution
of its magnitude, are we not irresistibly led to deny that there
is in the moon any power of projecting a part of itself beyond
the sphere of its own attraction ?
No. LIX.
Extract of a letter from a member of the Society, relative to the
great cold in January, 1 807, at the town of Hallowell, in the
district of Maine, Massachusetts, Head oj tide-water on Kcnne-
beck River. Communicated by John Vauglian.
Hallowell, January 29, 1807,
THE cold here on the night of the 22d — 23d, brought the
Digitized by
Google
40fc GREAT COLD IN MAINE.
thermometer, for a short time, to 33° (Fahrenheit) .below the
zero; and again, on the 26th — 27th, for a much longer time.
But the sky, on the last occasion, became cloudy at 3 A. M,
and stopped short our career, or I should have frozen quick-
silver by a natural process, for the first time in the United States,
and for the first time any where in so Iowa latitude as 44?° 16'
by the side of tide waters; that is, at the level of the sea. Quick-
silver, by Mr. Hutchins* experiments at Hudson's Bay, as ex-
plained by Mr. Cavendish, and confirmed by various others,
freezes at — 38^°; and I had the thermometer at — 36° or — 37° on
the surface of the snow; consequently, had darkness continued
without clouds, by day break I should have had my requisite
temperature at the surface of the snow, though I did not exr
pect more than — 36° in the air. I had prepared diminutive cups
of fine writing paper, of a size to hold each a globule of quick-
silver; and tools were ready cooled to strike, in order to obtain
a proof of malleability. — In all tfeie cold weather our female
invalids were riding about the country, and our stages and
town patrolee (of which in my turn I am one) by night. On
the two coldest nights, I sat up with my son, and wore neither
hat, nor gloves, nor great coat, nor boots. I observed with three
thermometers made by Blunt, the king's instrument-maker in
London, a fourth by Jones, and a fifth by an Englishman (who
supplies some Italians at Boston) and which proved my third best
instrument. At mid-day on the 26th we had a violent wind, with
the thermometer 7° below the zero; against which our ladies
rode, without inconvenience, in a sleigh ; other thermometers
in the neighbourhood, including one by Adams, corroborated
the above. This winter, till lately, has not differed from any
common cold winter in Europe.
Digitized by
Google
( 403 )
No, LX.
Statement of Deaths, with the diseases and ages* in the City and
Liberties of Philadelphia, from the 'Id of January J 807, to the
\stof January 1809. Communicated by the Board of Health.
From the 2d of January 1807 to the 1st of January 1808.
lilliiiiillli3 s
DISEASES. ■ J??88848'8388§1 £
ABSCESS,
Apoplexy,
Aphthae or Thrush,
Asthma, •
Atrophy, •
Burns, ....
Cachexy, .. •
Cancer,
Casualties,
Catarrh, .
Cholera,
Cholic, . . • ^ •
Compression of the Brain,
Consumption of the Lungs,
Convulsions,
Contusion,
Curved Spine,
Debility,
Decay,
Diabetes, . ' •
Diarrhoea,
Dropsy,
Dropsy of the Brain,
Dropsy in the Chest, ,
Drowned,
Dislocations,
Drunkenness, . .
Dysentery,
Dyspepsia,
Epilepsy,
Erysipelas,
Fever,
Fever, Intermittent,
Remittent,
Bilious,
Malignant Bilious,
Hectic,
Nervous,
Putrid, . .
Carried forward, 418 53 37 54 94 155 128 86 59 43 23 8 0 106, 1S66
to
p
C*3
O
1
s
i
3PS|
2
0 o
1
0
2
2
2
0 o o
P 3
12
0
0 o
0
3
3
8
5
2 4o
5
30
2
0 o
0
0
0
0
0
0 0 0
2
2
0 o
1
1
3
1
1
3 2 11
16
17
1 0
1
0
1
1
1
111
25
3
1 0
0
0
0
0
1
0 0
1
6
0
1 0
1
0
0
1
0
0 0
0
3
0
1 0
0
o-
1
2
I
1 1 1
1
9
. 3
1 0
0
0
1
0
1
2 1
2
ii
1
0 0
0
0
0
2
1
10 I
1
7
181
2 0
0
0
2
2
o-
0 0
2
189
2
0 0
0
0
1
4
7
2 3
• 2
21
0
0 0
0
0
0
1
0
0 0
0
1
. 6
3 6
21
51
86
54 23
17 6 2
31
306
91
5 2
0
6
9
2
2
Oil
8
127
. 0
0 1
0
1
0
0
0
0 01
3
0
0 0
0
0
1
0
0
0 0
1
1
0 0
a
0
0
0
3
1 0
5
15
4 5
3
5
6
14
8
9 5 4 2
4
84
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
1
. 21
4 3
0
2
8
3
9
7 5 5 1
7
75
1
2 1
2
5
10
6
7
5 4 5
4
54
27
13 2
2
3
0
0
1
0 0
0
48
1
1 1
1
2
2
2
3
14 1
1
20
0
0 4
2
0
1
3
0
0 0
16
26
0
0 0
1
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
1
0
0 G
0
0
3
4
0
0 1
6
14
26
9 6
4
4
2
6
3 '
1111
6
70
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0 1
1
2
1
0.0
1
0
1
0
0
0 0
2
5
. 2
0 0
0
0
1
0
0
0 0
3
6
3 3
5
2
6
2
3
3 2 1
36
2
1 0
1
0
0
0
0
0 0 •
4
2
1 1
2
2
2
4
2
1 1*
2
20
1
0 1
0
4
1
2
0
1 1
0
11
. 0
0 0
1
1
0
0
0
0 0
1
3
1
0 0
1
1
1
0
0
0 0
4
. 0
0 1
3
1
1
2
2
0 0
10
1
0 0
0
0
0
0
0
0 0
1
Digitized by
Google
404
DEATHS IN PHILADELPHIA. 1807.
DISEASES.
Brought forward, . .
Fever, Scarlet,
Inflammatory,
Puerperal,
Typhus,
Fracture, . . •
Fungus Hacmatbdes.
Gangrene, .
Gout,
Gravel, . ...
Hernia, ....
Hives or Croup,
Hysteria,
Hooping Cough,
Hemorrhage, . ...
Inflammation of the Brain,
Lungs,
Liver,
Breast, .
Stomach*
Bowels,
Bladder
Influenza* .
Insanity, ....
Lethargy, .
Locked Jaw,
Jaundice, •
Murdered, . •
Old Age
Palsy, ....
Parturition,
Pleurisy, •
Prolapsus, Uteri,
Rheumatism,
Schirrus of the Liver,
Scrofula, ....
Small Pox, Natural,
Inoculated.
Sore-throat,
Still-born, •
Sudden, ....
Suicide, •
Stone, . • •
Suffocation,
Syphilis, . .
Teething, • •
Tic Douloureux,
Tumors, ....
Ulcers,
Worms, ....
Diseases Unknown.
TOTAL
418 53 37 54 94155128 86
1
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
41
0
15
0
2
14
1
2
1
10
1 0
3
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
1
7
2
2
84
' 3
0
0
0
0
0 10
0 0
0 0
0 2
0 24
0 0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Q
2
0
1
0
0
2
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
0
8 8
6 8
0 0
5 1
0 0
From
From
r
r
I
t
o ©
2* •*
s
§
M
s
£•
© O
©
©
;*
1
>t 00
P s?
£
8
©
o
5& 43
23
8
o
106
0 0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
1
1 0
0
0
0
4
Q 0
0
0
0
0
0 1
0
0
0
0
2 1
1
0
0
2
2 0
0
0
0
1
1. 0
1
1
0
0
2 0
0
0
0
I
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
4
2 1
0
0
0
6
0 0
0
0
0
2
0 o
0
0
0
2
1 0
0
0
0
0
0 1
0
0
0
1
0 0
0
0
0
0
3 4
3
0
0
2
2 0
0
0
0
4
0 2
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
1
0 0
0
0
0
1
1 0
0
0
0
0
J 22
31
2
4
5
I 1
0 *0
0
3
2 o
0
0
0
3
3 1
0
0
0
7
0 0
0
0
0
1
0 1
0
0
0
2
1 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
o o
0
0
0
8
o o
0
0
0
0
o o
0
0
0
2
0 0
0
0
0
0
2 1
0
0
0
H
0 0
0
0
0
1
o o
1
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
1 0
0
0
0
1
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
0
0 0
0
0
0
51
614 m 65 7d 144536 lrt 135 88 W 60 il 4i*ST
2
1266
2
5
7
34
1
1
20
6
3
7
55
2
17
7
12
48
8
7
6
23
2
30
31
2
9
3
3
65
18
12
38
1
4
1
3
30
2
7
84
31
9
1
1
15
10
1
1
5
37
SI
lc35
Digitized by
Google
DEATHS IN PHILADELPHIA. 1807.
405
Deaths in each Month, of the foregoing period.
Adults*
Children.
Tdtat
January,
92
58 .
150
"February,
. 73
45
118
March,
109
45
154
April,
111
46 .
157
May,
. 90
. 43
.133
June,
. 91
68
159
July, • . .
. 101
136
237
August,
117
151
268
September,
140
97
237
October,
. 108
54
162
November,
. 101
54
155
December,
71
44
115
Total
1204
841
2045
From the 2d of January 1808 to the 1st of January 1809.
DISEASES.
Abortion, • I I
Abscess,
Angina Pectoris,
Aneurism,
Anthrax,
Apoplexy,
Asthma,
Atrophy or Marasmus,
Burns, ....
Cancer,-
Casualties, .
Catarrh, . ...
Cachexy, . •
Caries of the Spine,
Chlorosis, • .
Constipation,
Cholera Morbus,
Cholic,
Consumption of the Lungs,
Convulsions,
Contusion,
Debility,
Decay, . .„
Diabetes,
Diarrhoea,
Dropsy, . .
Dropsy of the Brain,
Dropsy in the Chest,
Drowned,
Carried forward,
u i h .H n i 3 i S 3
o? S § U S S 2 g S g
H M tO 0> M fcO
*» 5* « ?.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
7
4
0
0
17 2
0 0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
13
0
0
1
0
0
0
116 76 20
3 0 0
6 6 10
,82 18 12
0 0 0
10 0 1
13 6 4
0 0 0
10 10 10
10 3
20 11 8
0 0 0
0 0 0
293140 75
0
3
0
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
1
0
0
0
0
4
1
0
1
1
2
0
0
1
0
0
1 1
1 2
10 21 67
6 0 8
0
1
4
0
4
2
2
0
5
33 12
1 2
34 43 110
0
0
9
2
8
9
1
3
1
73 41
6 4
3 0
0 1
6 9
0 0
6 8
16 11
4 0
2 4
3 6
1& 111 7*50 57 U 12 o tt,ll«
eg
r fc
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
0
2
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
1
8
2
1
1
34
4
29
15
9
12
23
1
1
1
1
10 230
1 17
20 301
6 145
L
0
1
0
0
2
0
2
5
4
15
72
2
74
67
52
18
28
Digitized
by Google
406
DEATHS IK PHILADELPHIA. 1808.
li i i i i i i f 1 i ilff s
DISEASES. ????*»»*»** «?§ I g
Brought forward, 293140*75 34 43110132111 78 56 27 12 2 0 551168
Disease of the Heart, . • . 0 00001. 00000000 0 1
Hip Joint, . . 000100.000000000 1
Drunkenness, 00000630010000 15
Dysentery 1110 8 22011021000240
Dyspepsia, 000010010000000 2
Dyspnoea, 02.0Q00001000000 3
Eruptions, 020000000001000 3
Epilepsy 101021034000000 12
Erysipelas, . . .• . .210000100000000 4
Executed, 000.002 000000000 2
Fever, Type not mentioned, . . 13023234012000222
Bilious, Remittent and Intermittent, 230 14 13 7723 1000045
Typhus, Nervous and Putrid, . 00037137311&000035
Inflammatory, Phrenitic & Cephalic, 0102^0230000000 10
Scarlet, . . . . 0000200000&0000 2
Hectic, . . . 200001010000000*
Puerperal, \ . . 00000*1000000001 2
Fracture, . » . . 000010200000000 3
Gout, 0000001110100004
Gravel, 000010000000000 1
Hives, 23 15 10 30000000000253
Haemorrhage, Haemorrhoids & Haemoptysis, 00 1 004 12*1 1 0000 1 11
Hooping Cough, . . . 371000000000000 11
Inflammation of the Brain, • . . 23220323280000022
Lungs, . . 10 14 540 10 45354000266
Liver, . 311201714 21000225
Stomach and Bowels, 85003 135132000 2 33
Peritoneum, . OOOOOlOOOOOOOpO 1
Insanity, . . .. . .- 00000782' 321000225
Jaundice, 110000131110000 9
Lethargy, . . • . . 000000001110000 3
Locked-Jaw, • . . . , 10130O030000000 8
Measles, 23 ST 13 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 000 2 73
Mortification and Gangrene, . . 3231000 4311000220
Old age, 0000000 0 00 16 15 52038
Overlaid, 100000000000000 1
Palsy, 000010046211001 17
Parturition, 00 0 003o*lD000000 4
Pleurisy, 220146 66 3 31000135
Quinsy, 000000 00 1100000 2
Rickets, 10000000 00000012
Rheumatism, 000000 0 111000003
Scrofula, . -. . . . . 00100300010 0001 6
Small-Pox, Natural, . . . . 13 23 32 26 15 12 10 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 7 141
Inoculated, . 1020lOOo 0000000 4
Sore Throat, 3 110l0tfl0l0O00.0 8
Still-born, . . . • . • 126 0 0 0 0 0 0 ' 0 o 0 0 0 0 0 0 126
Suicide, 000000 10 1000002 4
Sudden Death, . . .. 40 040 6 15 6 7 40000446
Syphilis, 111019 o'^lOOOOOO 16
Teething, 73000000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10
Thrush, 340000 0 00000000 7
Tumors, 001001 000000000 2
Ulcers, 300000 00 0 0000015
Visceral Obstructions, . . . • 0010000^0000000 1
Worms; 38520000000000220
Wounds, 000000000000001 1
Diseases unknown, .... _26 ^_ 2111201100003 43
TOTAL, 583 234167 98 95 2l2 219 186 128 98 61-30 7 2101,2271
Digitized by
Google
DEATHS IN PHILADELPHIA. 1808.
Deaths in each Month, of the foregoing period.
407
Adults.
Child.
Adults.
Child.
January,
91
45
July,
Ill
263
February,
. 73
50
- August,
. 109
188
March,
91
63
September,
. 88
97
April,
. 96
73
October,
. 71
82
May, . .
81
98
November,
. 81
71
June,
. 95
132
December,
. 59
62
«_•
■ i
■ ■
■ ■ i*
.
527
461
519
764 Tota.l.h.32?1
The foregoing Statement* were drawn up with as much accuracy as possible, from the
Returns given to the Board, from Physicians and others. Any suggestions, for future im-
provements, will be thankfully received.
By reference to the Census taken by order of Congress, wo
find the population of the City and Liberties of Philadelphia,
and that part of the county connected with the preceding Bills
of Mortality, to have been as follows :
Census. City. Suburbs. County. Total.
1790 28522 13998 3657 46177
1800 41299 26641 4201 72141
*
A new Census will be taken in 1810.—- The present popu-
lation may be safely estimated at 100000, or upwards.
The population of the State of Pennsylvania, by the same
Census, appears to have kept pace with that of the City &c
1790....4S4S73 1800....602373
No. LXI.
An Account of Experiments made on Palladium, found in combi-
nation with pure Gold. By Joseph Cloud, an Officer in the Mint
of the United States.
Read June 23d, 1809.
NOTWITHSTANDING the numerous experiments that
have been made by several eminent chemists, on a metallic
substance, discovered by Doctor Wollaston, in combination with
crude platinum, and by him called palladium; there still re-
H h
Digitized by
Google
408 CLOUD, ON PALLADIUM FOUND IN GOLD.
mains much doubt with respect to the existence of such a sim-
ple substance. Professor Murray, one of the latest writers on
chemistry, in speaking of palladium, and other metals found
in combination with crude platinum, says; "It is not impossi-
ble that they may be alloys of others; or that the peculiar-pro-
perties which they appear to exhibit, may arise from combina-
tions which analysis has not detected. The peculiarity of their
association in one natural production, while there are no traces
of them in any other, perhaps lends force to this supposition."
It has been my fortune, however, to obtain it from a different
source; which enables me to point out some of its characters,
that will throw such light on the subject, as to remove all doubts
respecting the existence of this simple metal.
On the 15th of May, 1807, a deposit of gold bullion, from
Brazil, in South America, was made at the Mint of the United
States, weighing 797 ounces, 4 dwts., gross, equal to 819 oz.
1 1 dwts. 1 1 grs. standard. It was composed o( about 120 small
ingots, differing in weight; each of them was stamped on one
side with the arms of. Portugal, and the inscription of " Rio das*
Mortesr" The other side was stamped with a globe. They were
also marked with their respective qualities. Among them were
two or three ingots, so remarkably different in colour from any
of the common native alloys of gold, that I was induced to
reserve one, weighing 3 ounces, 11 dwts. 12 grains, for exa-
mination, and which was subjected to the following experi-
ments.
Experiment 1st. A portion of the reserved bar was examined
for silver, by solution in the nitro-muriatic acid ; but no trace
of that metal was indicated.
Exp. 2d. 24 carats of this bar were combined with 48 carats
of fine silver, and cupeled with pure lead, for the purpose of
destroying any of the base metals that might be in combina-
tion; but there was no loss of weight produced: consequently,
there were none of the easily-oxidable metals in the compound.
Exp. 3d. The pure metals from experiment 2d were redu-
ced to a thin lamina by rollers, and subjected to the action of
pure nitric acid : the silver, together with the native alloy of
the gold, were dissolved by the acid, which was tinged of a
Digitized by
Google
CLOUD, ON PALLADIUM POUND IN GOLD. 409
high brownish-red colour. The metals remaining undissolved,
after being well washed with pure water, and ignited, weighed
22 carats 14. grain; and had every appearance of pure gold.
Exp 4th. The- metals remaining undissolved in the last ex*
periment, were submitted to the action of nitro-muriatic acid.
The whole was dissolved, except a small portion of silver that
had escaped the action of the nitric acid: the solution was
tested for platinum, by muriate of ammoniac and other re-
agents, without any indications of the presence of that metal.
The gold was precipitated, and found to have been pure to
^4Tpart.
Exp. 5th. To the metallic solution from experiment 3d, I
added some pure muriatic acid, until the silver was precipitat-
ed, and the acid was in considerable excess : there was no pre-
cipitation of the colouring matter of the solution^ which still
retained its red colour, and did not appear to have undergone
any change by the precipitation of the silver.
By these preliminary experiments I discovered, that the al-
loy was a compound of gold, and a metal that would resist the
cupel, and was soluble in the nitric and nitro-muriatic acids. I
therefore adopted tbe following mode of analysis, as the easiest,
and at the same time a satisfactory evidence of the existence
of a metal possessing the properties of palladium; by which
name I shall call it in future.
Process 1st. The whole ingot was combined with double its
weight of fine silver, and cupeled with a quantity of lead, equal
to the weight of the compound.
Pro. 2d. The cupeled metals were reduced to thin plates,
and submitted to the action of boiling nitric acid, until the sil-
ver and palladium were dissolved. The solution, which was of
a high brownish-red colour, was decanted, and the residual
gold washed with pure water, which was added to the decant*
ed solution.
Pro. 3d. Pure muriatic acid was added to the metallic solu-
tion of process 2d, until no further precipitation took place,
and the acid was in excess. The silver being completely pre-
cipitated, the fluid, which retained its red colour, was decanted;
and the precipitate washed with pure water: the washings were
Digitized by
Google
410 CLOUD, ON PALLADIUM FOUND IN GOLD.
added to the decanted fluid, now holding nothing but palla-
dium in solution.
Pro. 4th, A saturated solution of pure pot-ash (carbonate of
pot-ash did not succeed so well, part of the palladium being
held in solution by the carbonic acid) was added to the me-
tallic solution from process- 3d, until the whole of the palladi-
um was thrown down in form of a floculent orange-coloured
precipitate. The precipitate was collected on a filtre; — was
well washed with pure water, and dried.
Pro. 5th. A portion of the precipitate from the last process
was put into a crucible, without addition, and subjected to a
heat of about 60° of Wedgewood ; and thus, a metallic buttdh
of palladium was obtained.
Pro. 6th. Another portion of the precipitate from process 4th
was combined with black flux, and submitted to a degree of
heat equal to that excited in process 5th, and similar results
were obtained.
Having thus obtained a metal, which I supposed to be pal-
ladium, from a source heretofore unknown; in order still far*
ther to satisfy myself, I separated that metal from crude plati-
num, and subjected them both to a number of comparative
experiments, with prussiate of mercury, recent muriate of tin,
and other ^e-agents, without discovering the least shade of dif-
ference.
Palladium is of a greyish-white colour; so closely resembling
that of platinum, that they cannot be distinguished by their
complexion. It is malleable, and very ductile; so that by the
rolling-mill it can be reduced into thin plates. In hardness it
is nearly equal to wrought iron. Its specific gravity, at 64°
Fahrenheit, is 1 1^. It may be alloyed with a number of the
metals. With gold, silver, and platinum, it forms ductile alloys,
and very much debases the colour ot the two former.
It would "be useless here to go into a further detail of the
characters and properties of palladium, as Dr. Wollaston and
Mr. Chenevix have fully explained them, in the Philosophical
Transactions of the Royal Society of London, for 1 803-4 and 5.
It is enough for me to have shown, I trust satisfactorily, that
palladium has a real existence; that it is one of the pure or
Ld
Digitized by
Google
CLOtfD, ON PALLADIUM FOUKD IN GOLD. 4ll
inoxidable metals; and, in this respect, on a par with gold, sil-
ver, and platinum; and that it has been found in a native
combination with gold ; without the presence of platinum, or
any other metal.
Gold has never been found pure in nature; it has hitherto
always been found alloyed with silver or copper; mostly ja
combination of both, and frequently other metals. The gold
which was the subject of my experiments, appears to have
been alloyed with palladium only; if any of the other known
metals had been present, except silver and platinum, they would
have been indicated by preliminary experiment 2d. — Silver
would have been discovered by experiment 1st; and platinum
by experiment 4th. It is self-evident, that this alloy was native;
for no man would have been at the trouble and expense to
purify the gold and separate the palladium from platinum, the
only source from whence palladium had been heretofore obtain-
ed; and where it exists only (agreeably to Doctor Wollaston's
experiments, confirmed by my own,) in the proportion of one
half of one per cent., merely for the purpose of combining
them with an intention of fraud; as none of the metals injures the
colour of gold so much, and renders it so suspicious as palladium;
and which would necessarily lead to a detection of the imposi-
tion. If fraud therefore had been intended, platinum would
have answered the purpose much better; as it is not separated
from gold by the usual process of assaying*
No. LXII.
Observations on the Geology of the United States, explanatory of a
Geological Map. By William Mac lure.
Read January 20th, 1809*
NECESSITY dictates the adoption of some system, so
far as respects the classification and arrangement of names
the Wernerian appears to be the most suitable, First, Because
it is the most perfect and extensive in its general outlines, and
Digitized by
Google
412 OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
secondly, The nature and relative situation of the minerals in
the United States, whilst they are certainly the most extensive
of any field yet examined, may perhaps be found to be the
most correct elucidation of the general exactitude of that theory,
as respects the relative position of the different series of rocks.
Without entering into any investigation of the origin or first
formation of the various substances, the following nomenclature
will be used.
Class 1st. Primitive Rocks.
1. Granite, 8. Porphyry,
2. Gneiss, ** 9. Sienite,
3. Mica slate, 10. Topaz-Rock,
4. Clay slate, 11. Quartz-Rock,
5. Primitive Limestone, 12. Primitive Flinty-Slate,
6. Primitive Trap, 13. Primitive Gypsum,
7. Serpentine, 14. White-Stone.
Class 2d. Transition Rocks.
1. Transition Limestone, 4. Transition Flinty-Slate,
2. Transition Trap, 5. Transition Gypsum.
3. Grey Wacke.
Class 3d. Ffatz or Secondary Rocks.
1. Old Red Sandstone or 1st 7. Third Floetz-Sandstone,
Sandstone Formation, 8. Rock-Salt Formation,
2. First or Oldest Floetz-Lime- 9. Chalk Formation,
stone, 10. Floetz-Trap Formation,
3. First or Oldest Floetz-Gyp- 1 1. Independent Coal Forma-
sum, tion,
4. 2d or Variegated Sandstone, 12. Newest Flcetz-Trap Forma-
5. 2d Flcetz-Gypsum, tion.
6. 2d Floetz-Limestone,
Class 4/A/ Alluvial Rocks.
1. Peat, 5. Nagel flub,
2. Sand and gravel, 6. Calc-tuff,
3. Loam, 7* Caic-sinter.
4. Bog iron ore,
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITED STATES : 41$
To the east of Hudson's river, the primitive class prevail^
both in the mountains and the low lands, decreasing gradually
as it proceeds south; it is bounded on the side of the ocean by
the vast tracts of alluvial formation which skirt the great gra-
nite ridge, while it serves as a foundation to that immense su-
perstructure of transition and secondary rocks, forming the ,
great chain of mountains that occupy the interior of the con-
tinent to the westward.
The primitive to the eastward of Hudson's river constitutes
the highest mountains, while the little transition and secondary
that is found, occupies the low grounds. To the south of the
Delaware, the primitive is the first rock, after the alluvial for-
mation of the ocean, the lowest step of (he stair, that moupts
gradually through the different formations to the top of the
Alleghanys.
To the eastward of the State of New- York, the stratification
runs nearly north and south, and generally dips to the east,
looking up to the White Hills, the most elevated ground; in
New- York State, and to the southward and westward, the stra-
tification runs nearly N. E. and S. W. and still dips generally
to the east. All the rivers east of the Delaware, run nearly north
and south, following the stratification, while the southern rivers
incline to the S. E. and N. W. direction.
Throughout the greatest part of the eastern and northern
States, the sea washes the foot of the primitive rock; commen-
ces the deposition of that extensive alluvial formation at Long-
Island, increasing in breadth to the south, forming a great part
of both the Carolinas and Georgia, and almost the whole of
the two Floridas and Lower Louisiana. The coincidence of the
Gulf-stream, with all its attendant eddies, depositions, &c. &c.
rolling along this whole extent, from the Gulf of Mexico to
Nantucket, may create speculative ideas on the origin of this
vast alluvial formation, while the constant supply of caloric,*
brought by that sweeping current from the tropics, may per-
haps account for the sudden and great change in the tempera-
ture of the climate, within the reach of the Atlantic.
• About 100 miles S. £. of Nantucket, in the month of September, Fahrenheit's therino-
*ctex in the §ea stood at 78°, while the air was only 66, and the sea in foundings 61.
Digitized by
Google
41 4f OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
The great distance occupied by the same, or similar sftb-
stances, in the direction of the stratification, must strike the ob-
1 server; as in the primitive rocks, the beds of primitive limestone
and Dolomite (containing in some places crystallized felspar
and tremolite) which are found alternating with Gneiss, tot ten
miles between Dover, State of New- York, and Kent, State of
Connecticut, appear forty miles north, at Stockbridge, Con-
necticut, and eighty miles south,, between Singsing and Kings-
bridge, New- York; where, after crossing the Hudson river and
dipping under the trap and sandstone formation in New-Jersey,
they most probably re-appear in the marble quarries, distant
from twelve to fourteen miles N. W. of Philadelphia, — a range
of nearly 300 miles.
There is a bed of magnetic iron ore, from eight to twelve
feet thick, wrought in Franconia, near the White Hills, New*
Hampshire; a similar bed in the direction of the stratification,
six miles N. E. of Phillipstown, on the Hudson river; and still
following the direction of the stratification, the same ore occu-
pies a bed of nearly the same thickness at Ringwood, Mount-
Pleasant, and Suckasunny, in New-Jersey, losing itself as it ap-
proaches the end of the primitive ridge, near Blackwater, — a
range of nearly 300 miles.
Instances of the same occur in the transition and secondary
rocks; as the Blue ridge from the Hudson river to Dan river,
consists of rocks of much the same nature, and included in the
same formation.
That no volcanic productions have yet been found east of the
Mississippi, is not the least of the many prominent features of dis-
tinction between the geology of this country and that of Europe,
and may perhaps be the reason why the Wernerian system, so
nearly accords with the general structure and stratification of
this continent.
It is scarce necessary to observe, that the country must be
considered of the nature of the^rrf rock that is found in place,
even should that rock be covered with thirty or forty feet of
sand or gravel, on the banks of rivers, or in valleys; for ex-
ample, the city of Philadelphia stands on primitive rock,
though at the Centre-square, thirty or forty feet of sand and
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITED STATES. -415
gravel must be penetrated, before the Gneiss rock, which as-
certains the formation, is found.
Beginning at the bay of Penobscot (to the northward and
eastward of which most probably the primitive descends through
a gradual transition to the secondary, and thus into the Inde-
pendent coal formation, found in such abundance in Nova
Scotia;) and proceeding south, the sea coast is primitive to Bos-
ton, where the transition covers it as far as Rhode-Island.
ALLUVIAL FORMATION.
On the south east side of Long-Island the alluvial begins,
QCcupying more than the half of that island; its western and
northern boundaries are marked by a line passing near Amboy,
Trenton, Philadelphia, Baltimore^ Washington, Fredericksburg,
Richmond, and Petersburg in Virginia, a little to the westward
of Halifax, Smithtield, Aversborough and Parlor's Ford on Pe-
dee river, in North Carolina, west of Cambden near Columbia,
Augusta on the Savannah river, Rocky Landing on the Oco-
nee river, Fort Hawkins on the Oakmulgee river, Hawkins-
town on Flint river, and running west, a little southerly, across
the Chatahouchee, Alabama and Tombigby rivers, it joins the
great alluvial bason of the Mississippi a little below the Natchez.
The ocean marks the eastern and southern limits of this ex-
tensive alluvial formation, above the level of which it rises con-
siderably in the southern States, and falls to near the level of
the sea, as it approaches the north.
Tide water in all the rivers from the Mississippi to the Roan-
oke stops at a distance from thirty to one hundred and twenty
miles short of the western limits of the alluvial; from the Ap-
pomatox to the Delaware, the tide penetrates through the allu-
vial, and is only stopped by the primitive ridge.
The Hudson is the only river in the United States where the
tide passes through the alluvial, primitive, transition, and into
the secondary, in all the northern and eastern rivers, the tide
runs a small distance into the primitive formation.
Through the whole of this alluvial formation, considerable
deposits of shells are found ; and a bank of shell limestone be-
I i
N
Digitized by
Google
416 +> OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
ginning In North Carolina, andrunning parallel to, and within
the distance of from twenty to thirty miles of the edge of the
primitive through South Carolina, Georgia, and part of the
Mississippi Territory; in some places this bank is soft, with a
large proportion of clay, in others, hard, with a sufficiency of
the calcareous matter to be burned for lime, large fields of the
same formation are found near cape Florida, and extending
some distance along the coast of the bay of Mexico; in some situ-
ations, the calcareous matter of the shells has been washed away,
and a deposit of silicious flint has taken their place, forming a
porous flinty rock, which is used with advantage for mill-stones.
Considerable deposits of bog iron ore, occupying the lower
situations, and many of the more elevated and dividing ridges
between the rivers are crowned with a sandstone and pudding-
stone, the cement of which is bog iron ore.
Quantities of ochrt, from bright yellow to dark brown are
found in abundance in this formation, in flat horizontal beds aU
ternating with other earths in some places; in others in kidney
form masses from the size of an egg to that of a man's head,
in form resembling much the flint found frequently in chalk
formations.
PRIMITIVE FORMATION.
The south east limit of the great primitive formation is co-
vered by the north western boundary of the alluvial forma-
tion from the Alabama river in the Mississippi Territory, (near
which it is succeeded by the transition and secondary forma-
tions) to the east end of Long-Island, with two small excep-
tions; the first near Augusta on the Savannah river, and near'
Cambden in South Carolina, where a stratum of transition clay-
slate intervenes, and from Trenton to Amboy, where the oldest
sandstone formation covers the primitive along the edge of the
alluvial.
From Rhode-Island (the greatest part of which is transition
rock) to Boston, the primitive touches a transition formation,
which most probably extends to the eastward, until it meets
the alluvial along the sea coast by Elizabeth island, cape Cod
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITED SJATES. 417
&c. &c. the eastern edge of the primitive from Boston to the
bay of Penobscot is bounded by the ocean.
The north western boundary of this extensive range is mark-
ed by a line running to the eastward of lake Champlain, twen-
ty or thirty miles westward of Connecticut river, to the west-
ward of Stockbridge, twelve miles east of Poukepsy, skirting the
high lands, then crossing the Hudson river at Philipstown, by
Sparta about ten or tiftee'n miles east of Eastown, on the Dela-
ware, three miles east of Reading on the Schuylkill, and a lit-
tle west of Middietown on the Susquehannah, where it joins
the blue ridge, and continues along it to Magotty Gap; from
thence to four miles east of the lead mines at Austinville, and
following a south western direction, by the storiey and iron
mountains, six miles S. E. ot the warm springs in Buncomb
county, North Carolina, to the eastward of Hightown on the
Cousee river, and a little to the westward of the Talapousee
river, it meets the alluvial near the Alabama river, which runs
into the bay of Mexico at Mobile.
In general the strata of this primitive rock run from a north
and south to a north east and south west direction, and dip al-
most universally to the south east at an angle of more than 45
degrees from the horizon; the highest elevation is towards the
north western limits, which gradually descends to the south east
where it is covered by the alluvial, and the greatest mass, as
well as the highest mountains, are found towards the northern
and southern extremities of the north western boundaries.
The outline of the mountains of this formation is generally
circular waving, in detached masses, with rounded flat tops, as
the white hills to the north, or conically waving in small
pyramidal tops, as the peaks of Otter, and the ranges of hills
to the south; (has the climate any agency in the forms of the
northern arid southern mountains?) their height does not ap-
pear to exceed six thousand feet above the level of the sea,
except perhaps the white hills, it is even probable that those
mountains are not much higher.
Within the limits prescribed to thk primitive formation, there
is a range of secondary, extending with some intervals from
the Connecticut to the Rappahannock rivers, in width generally
Digitized by
Google
418 OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
from fifteen to twenty five miles, bounded on the north cast
from Connecticut river to New-Haven, by the sea, where it'
ends, to recommence on the south side of Hudson river; from
Elizabeth town to Trenton, it touches the alluvial, from a lit-
tle above Morrisville on the Delaware to Norristown, Maytown
on the Susquehannah, passing three miles west of York, Han-
over, and one mile' west of Frederick town, it is bounded by,
or rather appears to cover a tongue of transition, which occu-
pies progressively a diminishing width as far south 2s Dan river.
This secondary formation is interrupted after it passes Fre-
dericktown, but begins again between Monocasy and Seneca
creeks, the north eastern boundary crossing the Potomac, by
the west of Centerville, touches the primitive near the Rap;
pahannock, where it finishes. On the north west side it is bound*
ed by the primitive, from some distance to the westward of
Hartford, passing neat Woodbury, and recommencing south of
the Hudson, passing by Mornstown, Germantown, &c. to the
Delaware; after which it continues along the transition, by the
east side of Reading, Grub's mines, Middletown, Fairfield, to
near the Potomac, and recommencing at Nojand's ferry, juns
klong the edge of the transition to the westward of Leesburg,
Haymarket &c. to near the Rappahannock.
All this secondary appears to be the oldest red sandstone for-
mation, though in some places about Leesburg, Reading &c.
the red sandstone only serves as cement to a pudding, formed
of limestone of transition, and other transition rock pebbles,
with some quartz pebbles. Large beds of greenstone trap and
wacke of different kinds, cover in many places this sandstone
formation, and form the small hills, or long ridges which occur
so frequently in it.
The stratification in most places runs from an east and west
to a north east and south west course, and dips generally to the
M. W. at an angle most frequently under 45 degrees from the
horizon, covering both the primitive and transition formations,
at every place where their junction could be examined; an<|
in some places, such as the east side of the Hudson (where the
action of the water had worn away the sandstone) the smooth
water-worn primitive was covered with large rolled masses pf
Digitized by
Google
OP THE VNITED STATES. 4I#
'greenstone trap to a considerable distance, the hardness and so-
lidity of which had most probably survived the destruction of
their sandstone foundation ; may not similar derangements be
one of the causes of the broken and unconnected state of this
formation?
Prehnite and zeolite are found in the trap of this formation ;
considerable deposits of mag>ieiic iron ore at Grubb's mines are en-
veloped, and have their circular layers intersected by green-
. stone trap, on a ridge of which this extensive cluster of iron
ore appears to be placed.
Grey copper ore has been found in the red sandstone forma-
tion near Hartford and Washington in Connecticijt; atScheuy-
ler's mines in Jersey, copper pyrites and native copper have been
found. The metallic veins on Perkiomen creek, containing
copper pyrites, btende, and galena, are in. the same formation;
running nearly north and south, across the east and west direc-
tion of the red sandstone; a small bed from an half to three
inches thick of brown or tile copper ore is interspersed and fol-
lows the circular form of the iron beds at Grubb's mines.
Besides the sandstone formation, there is included within the
described limits of the primitive, a bed of transition rocks, run-
ning nearly S. W. from the Delaware, to the Yadkin river,
dipping generally to the south east 45 degrees or more irom
the horizon ; its width is from two to fifteen miles, and runs
from the west of Morrisville, to the east of Norristown, passes
Lancaster, York, Hanover, Fredencktown, Bull run mountain,
Milton, foot of Pig river, Martinsville, and finishes near Mount
Pilot; between the Delaware and Rappahannock ; it is partially
covered by the red sandstone formation, and is in the shape of
a long wedge, the thick end, touching the Delaware, and the
sharp end, terminating at the Yadkin.
This range consists of beds of blue, grey, red and white small
grained transition limestone, alternating with beds of grey tcacke
and grey wacke-sla*e; with granular quartzose rocks, and a great
variety of transition rocks, not described or named in any trea-
tise yet published ; much of this limestone is intimately mixed
with grey wacke-slate, other portions of it contain so great a
quantity of small grained sand, as to resemble Dolomite, and
Digitized by
Google
420 OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
perhaps might with propriety be called the transition Dolomite,
in many places veihs and irregular masses of silex, variously
coloured (mostly black) run through it, and considerable beds
of fine grained white marble, fit for the statuary, occur*
Limestone spat runs in veins and detached masses, through
the whole of this formation, both it, and the grey wackc-
slate contain quantities of cubic pyrites; galena has likewise
been found near Lancaster, and many veins of the sulphate
of barytes traverse this formation, which runs about 25 to' 30
miles south east, and nearly parallel to the great transition for-
mation. A similar formation, about fifteen miles long, and two
to three miles wide, occurs on the north fork of the Catabaw
river, running along Linville and John's mountains, near to the
Blue ridge; a bed of transition rock, commencing on Green
pond mountain, Jersey, runs through Sucka&unny plains, in-
creasing in width as the primitive range decreases, until it joms
the great transition formation between Easton and Reading. —
On the west side of this partial transition formation, from the
Potomac to the Cataba, between it and the great western tran-
sition range, a series of primitive rocks intervenes, something
different from the common primitive, having the structure of
gneiss; with little mica, the scales of which are detached and
not contiguous; much felspar, father granular than crystallized;
mica-slate, with small quantities of scaly mica; clay-slate, rather
soft and without lustre, the whole having a dull earthy fracture,
and gritty texture, partaking of transition and primitive, but
not properly belonging to either; this rock is always found on
the edge of the primitive, before you come upon the transition,
r hut no where in such quantities as in this range; there are ma-
ny varieties of it, so that it imitates almost every species of the
common primitive rocks, but differing from them, by having
a dull earthy fracture, ^gritty texture, and Iktle or no crystalli-
zation.
About ten or twelve miles west of Richmond, in Virginia,
there is an independent coaljormation, twenty to twenty five miles
long, and about ten miles wide, it appears to be not far distant
from the range of the red sandstone formation, it is situated in an
oblong bason. accompanied by whitish Jreest<me> slaty clay 9 Kc.
Digitized by
Google
. OF TH^ UNITED STATES, ^21
with vegetable impressions, as well as most of the other attendants
of that formation; this bason lays upon, and is surrounded by
primitive rocks. It is more than probable that within the limits
of so large a maSs of primitive, more partial formations of se-
condary rocks may be found.
A great variety of mineral substances is found in this pri-
mitive formation, such as garnets in the granite, from the size
of a pin head to the head of a child; staurotide; andalusite; epi-
dote in great abundance; tremolite; all the varieties of magnesian
rocks; emerald, touching graphic granite and disseminated in the
granite of a large extent of country; adularia; tourmaline; horn-
blende; sulpfiate of barytes; arragonite &c.
From the number already found, in proportion to the little
research that has as yet been employed, there is every reason
to suppose, that in so great an extent of crystalline formation,
almost every mineral which has been discovered in similar si-
tuations on the ancient continents, will be found on this.
The metallic substances which are found in this primitive,
are generally extensive like the formation. Iron pyrites run
through vast fields, principally of gneiss, and mica-sl&te; magne-
tic iron ore forms vast beds, from ten to twelve feet thick,
generally in a fiornblende rock, occupying the higher elevations,
as at Franconia, high lands of New-York; the Jerseys; Yellow
and Iron mountain, in the west of North Carolina, &c. &c.
Black, brown, and red hematitic iron ores are found in Connec-
ticut and New- York, &c. Crystals of octahedral iron ore are dis-
seminated in granite (some of which have polarity, as at Bruns-
wick) and in many varieties of the magnesian genus; black lead
exists in beds from six to twelve feet wide, traversing the States
of New- York, Jersey, Virginia, Carolina, &c. Native and grey
copper ore occur near Stanardsville and Nicholson's Gap, disse-
minated in a hornblende and epidote rock, bordering on the tran-
sition; fnolybdena is found at Brunswick* Maine; Chester, Penn-
sylvania; Virginia; North Carolina, &c. Arsenical pyrites have
been discovered in large quantities in the district of Maine;
rutile, and menachanite exist in a large bed, on the edge of
the primitive near Sparta, in Jersey, having a large grained
marble, with menachanite and negnne unbeded in it on one side,
Digitized by
Google
422 9 OBSERVATIONS ON THfl GEOLOGY
and hornblende rock on the other; this bed contains likewise
large quantities of blende; detached pieces of gold hare been
found in the beds of some small streams in North Carolina and
other places, apparently in a quartz rock. Manganese has been
found in New-York, North Carolina, &c. Near the confines
of the red sandstone and primitive formations, a white ore of Co-
bolt has been worked above Middletown on the Connecticut
river, and it is said near Morristown in New-Jersey.
The general nature of metallic repositories in this formation
appears to be in beds, disseminated or lying in masses; when
in beds (as the magnetic iron ore, and black lead J or disseminated
as the iron pyrites, octahedral iron oref JMolybdena, &c. they oc-
cur at intervals through the whole range of the formation ;
veins to any great extent have not yet been found in this for-
mation.
TRANSITION FORMATION.
This extensive field of transition rocks, is limited on the S. E.
sick from a little to the eastward of lake Champlain, to near
the river Alabama, by the N. W. boundary prescribed to the
primitive rocks; on the N. W. side it touches the S. E. edge
of the great secondary formations, in a line, that passes consi-
derably to the westward of the dividing ridge, jn Georgia,
Nqjth Carolina, and part of Virginia, and runs near it in the
northern parts of that State, and to the eastward of it in the
States of Pennsylvania and New- York.
This line of demarkation runs between the Alabama and
Tombigby rivers, to the westward of the north fork of the Hol-
stein river, until it joins the Alleghany mountains near the sul-
phur springs, along that dividing ridge to Bedford county in
Pennsylvania, and from thence N. E. to the east side of the
Catskill mountains on Hudson's river. This line of separation
of the transition and secondary formations,' is not so regularly
and distinctly traced as in the other formations, many large
valleys are formed of horizontal secondary limestone, ftiJJ of
shells* while the ridges on each side consist of transition rocks,
&c. the two formations interlock, and are mixed hi many
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITED STATES* % 42S
places, so as to require much- time and attention to reduce
them to their regular and proper limits, it is however probable,
that to the N. W. of the line here described, little or no tran-
sition will be found, although to the S. E. of it, partial forma-
tions of secondary may occur.
The breadth of this transition formation is generally from
20 to 40 miles, and the stratification runs from a north and
south to a north east and south west direction, dipping gene-
rally to the N. W. at an angle in most places, under 45 de-
grees from the horizon. On the edge of the primitive ; it, in
some places, deviates from this general rule, and dips for a short
* distance to the south east. The most elevated ground is on th&
confines of North Carolina, and Georgia, along the S. E. limits
to Maggotty Gap, descending towards the N. W. until it meets
the secondary; from Maggotty Gap, north easterly,. the highest
ground is on the north west side, sloping gradually towards the
primitive, which ranges along its south east boundary.
The outline of the mountains of this formation, is almost a
straight line, with few interruptions, bounding long parallel
ridges of nearly the same height, declining gently towards the
side, where the stratification dips from the horizon, and more
precipitous on the opposite side, where the edge of the strata
comes to the surface.
This formation is composed of a small-grained transition
limestone, of all the shades of colour from white to dark blue,
and in some places it is rfed, intimately mixed with grains of
grey wacke slate, also of lime spar in veins, and disseminated ;
siliceous flinty veins and irregular masses, in many places there
is an intimate mixture of small sand, so as to put on the ap-
pearance of dolomite, this is in beds from 50 to 5000 feet in
width ; it alternates with grey wacke, and grey wacke slate, a sili-
ceous aggregate, having particles of a light blue colour, from
the size of a pin head to that of an egg, disseminated, in some
places in a cement of a slaty texture, and in others in a
quartz cement; a fine sandstone cemented with quartz in large
masses, often of a slaty structure, with small detached scales of
mica intervening, and a great variety of other rocks, not descri-
bed <ir named by any author, which from their composition
and situation cannot be classed but with the transition,
Kk
Digitized by
Google
424? OBSERVATIONS ON THE GEOLOGY
The limestone, grey tcacke, and grey wacke slate, generally oc-
cupy the vallieS; the quartzose aggregates, the ridges; amongst
which is that called the millstone grit; this must not be con-
founded with another rock, likewise denominated the millstone
grit, which is a small grained granite, with much quartz, found
in the primitive formation ; there are many and extensive caves
in the limestone of this formation, where the bones of many
animals are found, as well as the remains of marine insects and
shells.
Beds of coal-blende, accompanied by alum slate and black chalk,
have been discovered in this formation on Rhode Island; the
Leheigh and Susquehannah rivers; (a large body of alum slate
which occurs on Jackson's river in Virginia is perhaps only a
part of a similar formation ;) powerful veins of the sulphate of
barytes. cross it, in many places it is granular, as that near Fin-
castle; or slaty, as in Buncomb county, North Carolina.
Iron and lead have as yet been the principal metals found in
this formation; the lead in the form of galena, in clusters, or
what the Germans call stock^werck, as at the lead mines on New
river, Wythe county, Virginia ; the iron is disseminated in the
form of pyrites; hematitic and magnetic iron ores, and conside-
rable quantities of the spanyiron ore occur in beds and they are
likewise disseminated in the limestone.
SECONDARY FORMATION.
The south east limit of this extensive formation is* bounded
by the irregular border of the transition, from between the Ala-
bama and Tombigby rivers, to the Catskill mountains. Qn the
north west side it follows the shore of the great lakes, and lo-
ses itself in the alluvial of the great bason of the Mississippi, oc-
cupying a surface from 200 to 500 miles in breadth.
Its greatest elevation is on the south east boundary, from
which it fails down,; almost imperceptibly, to the north west
and mingles with the alluvial of the Mississippi, having an out-
line of mountain, straight and regular, bounding long and pa-
rallel ranges of a gradually diminishing height as they approach
the N. W. limits. An almost horizontal stratification, orthostra-
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITE p STATES. 425
hi waving with the inequalities of the surface, distinguishes this
from the t^vo preceding formations.
Immense beds of secondary limestone, of all the shades from
light blue to black, intercepted in some plates by extensive
tracts of sandstone and other secondary aggregates, appear to^
constitute the foundation of this formation, on which reposes
that great and valuable formation, called by Werner the inde-
pendent coal formation, extending from the head "waters of
the Ohio, with somcf interruptions, all the way to the waters of
the Tombigby, accompanied by its several usual attendants,
slaty clay and Jreestonc with vegetable impressions &c. but in no
instance that I have seen or heard of, is it covered or does it al-
ternate with any rock resembling basalt, or indeed any of those
called the newest fl&tz trap formation.
Along the S. E. boundary, not far from the transition, a rock-
salt and gypsum formation has been found; on the north fork
of Holstein not far from Abington, and on the same line south
west from that in Green county and Pidgeon river, State of
Tennessee, it is said considerable quantities of gypsum have been "
discovered; from which, and the numerous salt licks and salt
springs which are found in the same range, as far north as lake
Oneida, it is probable, that this formation is on the same great
scale, which is common to all the other formations on this con-
tinent: at least rational analogy supports the supposition, and
, we may hope one day to find, in abundance, those two most '
useful substances, which are generally found mixed or near
each other in all countries that have been carefully examined.
The metallic substances which have been already found in
this formation, are iron pyrites, disseminated, both in the coal
and limestone; iron ores, consisting principally of brown, sparry
and clay iron stone, in beds; galena, whether in veins or beds is
not ascertained. The large deposits of galena at St. Louis on the
Mississippi, have been described as detached pieces, found co-
vered l?y the alluvial of the river, of course not in place; all
the large specimens which I have seen, were rolled masses,
this rather confirms- the opinion, that they were not found in
{heir original places.
Digitized by
Google
426 ' OBSERVATIONS ON THE OEOL6GY
On the great Kanawa river,. near the mouth of Elk rivet,
there is a large mass of black (I suppose vegetable) earth, so
soft, as to be penetrated by a pole from 1 0 to 15 feet deep ; out of
the hole thus made, a stream of hydrogene gas frequently issues,
which will burn for some time. In the vicinity of this place
there are constant streams of that£<w, which it is said when once
lighted will burn for weeks, a careful examination of this place,
would probably throw some light on the formation of coal and
other combustible substances, found in great abundance in this
formation.
From near Kingston on lake Ontario, to some distance below
Quebec (as far as I can recollect, not having my note-book
here) it is principally primitive; and from all the information
I could collect, that great mass of continent, lying to the north
of the 4f6th degree of latitude, for a considerable distance to the
west, consists mosdy of the same formation; from which it is
probable, that on this continent, as well as in Europe* and Asia,
the northern regions are principally occupied by the primitive
formation.
The foregoing observations are the result of many former
excursions in the United States, and a knowledge lately acqui-
red by crossing the dividing line of the principal formations,
in 15 or 20 different places, from the Hudson to Flint river;
as well as from the information of intelligent men, whose situ-
ation and experience, make the nature of the place near which
they live familiar to them; nor has the information that could
be acquired from specimens, when the locality was accurately
marked, been neglected, nor the remarks of judicious travellers.
Notwithstanding the various sources of information, much
of the accuracy of the oudines of separation between the for-
mations, must depend on rational analogy; for instance, be-
tween Maggotty and Rockfish Gaps, a distance of upwards of
sixty miles, I found in six different places which were exa-
mined, that the summit of the blue ridge divided the primitive
and transition formations: I of course concluded, that in pla-
ces where I had not examined (or which from their nature
could not be examined) the blue ridge from Maggotty Gap to
Rockfish Gap, was the boundary of the two formations.
Digitized by
Google
OF THE UNITED STATES. 427
The map of the United States on which those divisions are
delineated, though I believe the best yet published, is exceed-
ingly defective in the situation and range of mountains, cour-
ses and windings of rivers &c« but as the specimens which I
collected every half mile, as well as the boundaries of the dif-
ferent formations, are from the positive situations of the differ-
ent places, the relative arrangement of the map cannot change
them, but must become more exact, as the geographical part
is made more accurate*
In adopting the nomenclature of Werner, I do not mean to
enter into the origin or first creation of the different substances,
or into the nature and properties of the agents which may have
subsequently modified pr changed the appearance and form
of those substances; I am equally ignorant of the relative pe-
riods of time in which those modifications or changes may have
taken place; such speculations are beyond my range,- and pass
the limits of my inquiries. All that 1 mean by a formation, is
a mass of substances (whether adhesive, as rocks; or separate,
as sand and gravel;) uniform and similar in their structure and
relative position, occupying extensive ranges, with few or no
interpolations of the rocks belonging to another series, class, or
formation; and even where such partial mixtures apparently
take place, a careful examination will seldom fail to explain
the. phenomenon without shaking the general principle, or
making it a serious exception to the rule.
In the account of the metals and minerals, it is not intended
to give a list of the number, extent and riches of the metallic
and mineral repositories; the nature of the ore or mineral, with
a description of its relative position, in regard to the surround-
ing substances, is the principal object of geology, which cannot
be understood by microscopic investigation, or the minute ana-
lysis of isolated rocks and detached masses; this would be like
the portrait painter dwelling on the accidental pimple of a fine
face : the geologist must endeavour to seize the great and pro-
minent outlines of nature; he should acquaint himself with her
general laws, rather than study her accidental deviations, or
magnify the number and extent of the supposed exceptions,
Digitized by
Google
428 ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATIONS.
which most frequently cease to be so when judiciously exa-
mined.
Should this hasty and imperfect sketch, call forth the atten-
tion of those possessed of more talents and industry for the ac-
curate investigation of this interesting subject, the views of the
writer will be fully accomplished. •
No. LXIIL
Astronomical Observations made at the Havanna by J. /. de Ferrer,
and communicated by him to the Society.
Latitude of the Havanna. .... 23° 08' 24" N.
%
1809. April 3d, Emeruon of Saturn from the «.
Apparent time.
Emersion of the ring of Saturn. . . 1122 44,5 very exact} FrAm .. .
Exterior contact or total emersion of the planet 11 23 49,0 Idem. > rom ,. \°2."
Total emersion of the ring 112419,0 Idem. ^ »cure umD *
April 29. Eclipse C
Emersion of Tycho, beginning. ... 8 14 15 ' ,
end. 8 14 59
End of the Eclipse .8 35 25
April 29, Occultation of la, and 2a 4b C
Immersion la 4b illuminated limb. . • . 11 06* 25,8}
Immersion 2a 4b illuminated limb. . • 11 13 21,0 > Observations very exact.
Emersion 2a 4b obscure limb. . . . 12 31 51,6*3
June 23. Occultation of la 4b and 2a 4b C
Immersion, obscure limb la 4b. • • • 7 42 40,8 very exact.
Immersion, obscure Kmb 2a 4b. • . • . 7 51 52,8 very exact (cloud.
Emersion, illuminated limb, 2***. . 9 18 32,0 may be 6" less oh acct. of a
June 28. Occultation of fi Capricorn C
Immersion, illuminated limb, €. . . 15 4120,4 very exact
Emersion, obscure limb, C. . . . 16 54 53,5 very exact.
The times mentioned are apparent— Magnifying power of the Telescope 100— The
accuracy of the above observations may be depended on.
Q3* A model and description of a machine for steering a vessel qf any
burden, with ease and perfect safety to the steersman, has bein laid before
the Society, for which an Extra Magellanic-pretAium of a gold medal of the
Value of twenty dollars was awarded by the Society to the inventor, Mr. James
fiumphreys oj Philadelphia. But the communication, which cannot be welf
understood without a plate, came too late to be conveniently inserted in the pre*
sent volume* It shall, however, appear in the next.
END OF VOL. VI.
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
(fj° 7%* ma/? referred to in page yf27, is that published by Brad- *
ley, a reduction from which was intended to be engraved for this Vo-
lume. Owing to the absence of the aut/ior of the memoir 9 a drawing of
Lewiswas used which was compiled from materials prior to those used
by Bradley — in which the mountains are more erroneously laid downf
but which still sufficiently illustrates the memoir.
Digitized by
Google
.-ft. §
Fig. 3
A
'VOf,
i i
\ 1
:::.
e v
V
1111
m
X.
£
. ~R
— ' 1 ,
om^
Digitized by
Google
yv„/r> rs
/■'„■/
>y Google-
Digitized by
Google
i I
Digitized by
Google
I
^
?
Qi
3
i
35"
J
2
0*
V
^\
•
N
<N
"
^\
/
i
0
0
1
2
N
/■
/
\_
k.
^
^l^^-
|
k
1
i
*>
/
I
-*' i
•a
1
i
s
1
1 ■■
t
rt
i i
/'
*
i
y
1
J
j (
1
j
Id
! '■
1
j
— L
I
0
0
*
■ ' 2
i
\
1
\
»
-
— i
^*
;
_
<5> "
1
i
1
1
I
1
'v\
Digitized by
Google
IT"
/
"
v
\
Digitized by
Google
/
Digitized by
J
'«£'"
GiENERAL INDEX.
TO THE FIFTH AND SIXTH VOLUMES.
{j3*The Roman numerals signify the volume, and the figures, the page.
ABSORPTION of air by water, V, 21.-*-effects of pressure on, 24.—- of fix-
ed air, see Air ; fixed.
'Acid, marine, action of its vapour, V, 3, 7.„
■ nitrous, action of its vapour on charcoal, V, 4.— on animal fibres.— on
phosphorus, 5.— experiments on phlogisticated and dephlogisticated,
11— how formed in the atmosphere, VI, 131.
— — septic, contained in sea-water, V, 141.
Acids, on, See Priestley*
Advertisement, of the Am. Phil. Soc. V, iii. VI, iv.
Mtites or eagle-stone, found in the alluvial so}l of Maryland, VI, 319.
Agaricus, poisonous effects of some species of, V, 62.
Agitation. See Air.
Air, absorption of by water, V, 21.— effects of pressure on the absorption of,
24.— effects of agitation on the same, 25.*— generated by the freezing of
water, 36.— exposed to heat in metallic tubes, 42«— transmission of
through the substance of some metallic tubes, 44.
m fixed, absorption of by iron-filings with sulphur, V, 12.
— ^nitrous, readily absorbed by water, V, 23.
phlogisticated, experiments on, V, 46.— method of obtaining, 50.
■ phosphoric, not always inflammable by the admission of atmospheric,
air, V, 9. #
vitriolic acid, water impregnated with produces sulphur, V, 8.
——different kinds of, purity or impurity of, V, 9.— proportion of latent heat
in,- 10.— transposition of, 14.
Albany, State of New-Tori, longitude of, VI, 297. — latitude 297.
Aldebaran, occupation of by the moon, VI, 213.
Alkali, caustic fixed, action of its vapour, V, 3.— pounded glass dissolved in
a solution of, 8.
volatile, gives a blue colour to the solution of copper, V, 6.
Alkaline matter, contained in sea- water, V, 141.
Allison, Burgiss, D. D. his description of a newly invented globe time-piece,
V, 82.— description of the pendant planetarium, 87.
Digitized by GoOglC
2 INDEX,
Alluvial soil j in the. state of Maryland, VI, 319.— extent of, in the U. S. 413.
American antiquities. See Antiquities.
American Philosophical Society, rules of V, iii.— officers, V, xiu VI, v, xxi.
— Members, V, xiii. VI, vi, xxii.— circular letter to, relative to the state
of their own country, V, ix.— donations received, V, xiv. VI, ix, xxv.
Amphibolic rock, found transported in the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 320«
—in the primitive soil of the same state, 321.
Amygdaloid rock, found in the bed of the Potomac river, VI, 322.
Analysis, of the fluids ejected before the commencement of die black vo-
miting in yellow fever, V, 120.— of the black vomit itself, 121.
Andromeda mariana, deleterious effects of, V, 61.
Angles, improved method of projecting and measuring plane, VI, 29.
Angles of the sails of a wind-mill. See Wind-mill.
Antes, Colonel, on the hybernation of swallows, VI, 59.
Apocinum androsamifolium, irritability of the flowers of, VI, 81.
Apparatus, astronomical. See Instruments.
chemical, account of a new arrangement of, VI, 99.
Appendix to Vol. V, 325.
Aqua regia, experiments relating to, V, 11.
Asclepias Syriaca* irritability of the flowers of, Vi, 79.
Astronomical observations* See Dunbar, Dewitt, Ellzcott, Ferrer &? Patterson.
Atmosphere^ evening phenomenon in, VI, 41.*— excessive cold of, in the dis-
trict of Maine, VI, 401.
Azalea nudi/lora, deleterious qualities of, V, 64. x
B
Barton, Dr. Benj. Smith, on the poisonous honey of N. America, V, 51 —
his memorandum concerning a new vegetable muscipula, VI, 79.— his
account of a new species of N. A. lizard, 108.— his supplement to the
account of the Dipus Americanus, 143.— his letter to Dr. Beddoes on
the etymology of certain English words, 145.— appointed by die A. P. S.
to deliver a eulogium on Joseph Priestley, 190.
Baton-Rouge, description of a singular phenomenon seen at, VI, 25.
Baudry, des Lozieres, his memoir on animal cotton, or the insect fly-car-
rier, V, 150. - v
Bear, white, of the Mississippi, account of, VI, 71.
Beaver, very common in Louisiana, VI, 70.
of N. America, facts and observations relative thereto, by Mr. John
Heckewelder, VI, 209.
Bees, whether injured by quaffing the nectar of poisonous flowers, V, 57* —
abounding in some parts of N. America, 58.— care necessary in the
management of, 69.
Bengal. See Building.
Bismuth, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 2.
Blood, different theories on the cause of the vermilion colour of, VI, 248*
^theory of Dr. Conover,25l.
Bones, fossil, found near the Mississippi, VI, 4C~communication concern-
ing^them, 55.
Digitized by
Google
INDEX. 3
Bowdoin college, district of ^fain^ longitude of, VI, 273, 297. — latitude of,
273, 297. — observations made there on the sokr eclipse of June 16th,
t806, 275.
Bricks, on those used in the U. States, VI, 384.
Brick dust, use of in mortar, VI, 385.
Brown, Samuel, M. D. his description of a nitrous cave on Crooked Creek,
Ky. with remarks and observations on gun-powder and nitre, VI, 235.
Buffaloes, very abundant in Louisiana, VI, 70.
Building in India, on the principles and practice of, VI, 376. — materials used
for, 378.*-4hickness of the walls, 379.— exterior and interior plaistering,
379. — shell lime, how made and used, 379. — manner of constructing
the roof, 380.— manner of constructing the terrace, 380.— result of ex-
periments made on the weight and strength of timber used, 382. — va-
rious* observations, 384.
"Bull, Colonel, his notes concerning a vegetable found under ground, V, 160.
Boundary of the U. S. and His Catholic Majesty, astronomical and thermo-
metrical observations made on, V, 203 to 311.— first point fixed, 209.
Thompson's Creek, 217. — lat. 228. — long. 271 —Mobile river, 229—
long. 241. — lat. 242. — riverCoenecuch, 244. — lat. 247.— Chattahocha or
Apalachicola river, 249. — long. 255. — lat. 256, 258. — Flint river, 259.
long. 271. — lat. 272.— Point Peter to determine St. M ary's, 276— long.
284. — lat. 285. — Amelia island, 287.-*~Cumberland island, 287.— St.
Mary's, 287. — lat. 296 to 300.— long. 310.
Carbonic acid gas. See Air, fixed.
CathraU, Dr. Isaac, his memoir on the analysis of black vomit, V, 117.
Cave, nitrous, description of one on Crooked creek in Kentucky, VI, 236.
— its temperature, 237. — vapours condensed upon its sides, 238.— na-
ture of the earth, 238. — signs by which to judge of the quantity of nitre
contained in the earth, 239.
Cement. See Mortar.
Charcoal, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 2^-of marine acid,
3.— experiments made with in the nitrous acid, 4.— other experiments
on, 34. ...
of bones, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 2.
Chart, nautical. See Nautical chart.
Chattahocha, astronomical observations made near the mouth of, V, 199. —
longitude, 202. — latitude, 199.
Chrome, not contained in the meteoric stones of Weston, Conn. VI, 345.
Cincinnati, geographical position of, VI, 159. — See also Antiquities.
Cinder, finery, experiments on, V, 34.
Circular. See Committee.
Clay, Joseph, M. A. P. S. his observations on the figure of the earth, V, 312.
— his demonstration of a geometrical theorem, VI, 201.
Climate, on that of the Mississippi territory, VI, &■— 23. — general remarks on
the same, 48 — 55*— See also Mississippi territory and Dunbar.
Cloud, Joseph, an officer in the mint of the I/, S. his account of experiments
made on palladium, VI, 407— 411.
Digitized by.
,GoogIe
4 I&DEX.
Clupea, tyrannus, description of, V, TT* !
Cock, account of one with two perforations, contrived to obviate the nece*-
\ sities of a vent-peg in tapping air-tight casks, VI, 105.
Cold, excessive, observed at Halloweil, in the district of Maine, in January,
1807, VI, 401.
Colour, of solution of copper in volatile alkali, V, 6.
of the blood, opinions of physiologists and chemists concerning the ver-
milion, VI, 248, — 250.-^opinion of Dr. Conover, 551.
Colours, on the different, oi the metallic oxides, 253.
Comet, observations on that which appeared in Septr. 1807, by J. J, Ferrer,
VI, 345. — on the same, by W. Dunbar, 368.
Commissioners, for determining the boundaries between the U. S. and the
Floridas, V, 203. — Spanish commissioners returned, 216.
Committee, appointed by the A. P. S. for collecting information respecting
the state of this country, V, ix.— -circular letter of the .committee, ix.
Committees, of thje A. P. S. rules adopted for the choice of papers for pub-
lication, VI, iv.
Conover, Samuel F*—M. D. his essay on the vermilion colour of the blood*
and on the different colours of metallic oxides, with an application of
these principles to the arts, VI, 247.
Contents, of, V, xxi. — VI, xxiyxlv.
Contortce, destructive to insects, VI, 81.
Copper, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 3.— of marine acid, 3.
— colouring of its solution in volatile alkali, 6.
Cotton, animal, description of jthe insect producing it, V, 150.
wild. See Asclepias syriaca.
Coulter, Thomas, Esq. his description of a method of cultivating peach-trees
with a view to prevent their premature decay, V, 327.
Country, state of. See Committee*
Darwin** theory of spontaneous generation refuted, VI, 119,-129.
Datura stramonium, poisonous properties of, V, S7»
Deaths, statement of, with the diseases and ages in the city and liberties of
Philadelphia from Jan. 1807 to Jan. J 809, VI, 403. ,
Dephlogisticated and inflammable air not exploding in red heat, V, 42.
De Witt, Simeon, Esq. of Albany, N. T. his observations on the eclipse of
June 16th, 1806, VI, 300.
Diameter of the sun, V I, 216. -*
Digester. See Papin.
Dipus Americanus, supplement to the account if, VI, 143.
Doctrine of phlogiston, V, 28.
Dimbar, William, Esq. of Mississippi territory, one of the commissioners for
determining the boundary line between the U. S. and the Floridas, V,
203. — his report on the point of departure, £15, 21-6.— declined acting
further, 217.
his paper on the language of signs among certain North American In-
dians, VI, l.»— meteorological observations made near the Missis-
'igiiized by
Google
INDEX. 5
sippi in the year 1799, 9. — his description of a singular pheno-
menon seen at Baton Rouge, 25.— extract of a letter from him to Mr.
Jefferson, noticing fossil bones, 40.— meteorological observations made
neaf the Mississippi, during' 1800, 43.-1— description of the river
Mississippi and its delta, 165* — monthly and ranual results of mete-
orological observations made near the Mississippi during the years
1801, 1802 and 1803, 188. — appendix to the memoir on the Mis-
sissippi, 191. — observations made on the eclipse of the sun, June HJth
1806, at Natchez, 260. — on finding the longitude from the moon's me-
ridian altitude,' 277.— observations on the comet of 180r — 8, 368.
Dupont, Mr. sur les vegetaux les polypes & les insects V, 104.— sur la
theorie des .vents, VI, 32. v
Duralde, Martin, his communication relative to fossil bones in the country
•of Apelousas &c. VI, 55.
Eclipse, annulary observed April 3d, 1791, VI, 357.
lunar, observations' made on, at Philad. by R. Patterson, and A. Elli
cott, Sep. 21st, 1801, VI, 59.— on that of Nov. 14th, 1807, in the city
of Havannah, by J. J. de Ferrer, 348. — on that of May 9th, 1808, by
the same, 350.
of the sun, observations made on that of Feb. 21st, 1803, at the city of
Havannah, and at Lan. Penn. VI, 161.— on that of June 16th; 1808,
made at Lan. by A. EHicott, 255.— on the same at Natchez, by W.
Dunbar,* 260. — at Kinderhook, State of New- York, by J. J. de Ferrer
and J. Garnett, 264, 293, 351, 362, at Albany state of New- York, by
Sim. De Witt, 271, 300. — in Philad. by R. Patterson, 272. — on the
banks of Schuylkill, by F. R. Hassler, 262. — near Natchez, by W*
Dunbar, 272.— at Bowdoin College, Maine, by Dr. M'Keen, 275.
Egmonfs, island, position of, VI, 87.
Ellicott, Andrew, his astronomical and thermometrical observations made at
the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers, from the year 1 796
to 1799, V, 162, 171. — similar observations made at Nachez, 172 —
190.— at the city of New-Orleans, 191 — 197.— onr the boundary be-
tween the U. S. and his catholic majesty, 203—311. — observations
on the transit of Mercury, made at Miller's place -on the Coenecuch
river, 197. — lunar observations made near the mouth of Chat-
tahocha, 199. — his short and easy method for finding the equations
for the change of the sun's declination &c VI, 26. — his account
of an extraordinary flight of meteors, 28. — his observations made on
a lunar eclipse at Philad. 59«— his astronomical observations made at
Lan. 61, continued, 113, and 233. — his observations of the eclipse of
the sun, on the 21st, of Feb. 1803, 161. — his observations of the oc-
cultation of the I satellite of Jupiter, by the moon, 225.— his obser-
vations on the eclipse of the sun June 16th, 1806, made at Lan. 255.
Ellh, John, of New* Jersey, his account of a method of preventing the
premature decay of peach-trees, V, 325*
Digitized by
Google
6 INDEX.
Ephoron Leukon or white fy of Passaick river, mcmoiV on this insect, V,
71.
Equations numeral, method of finding the root of, VI, 391.
Erica, deleterious qualities of the honey gathered from the different species
of, V, 55.
Etymology, of certain English words, VI, 145.
Experiments, see Priestley.
Falls, of the rivers of the U. S. considered as the antient boundary-lin© of
the Atlantic ocean, VI, 284.
Felspar, contained in the gneiss of Maryland, VI, 321. — found in several
places in the primitive rocks of the U. S. 414.
Ferrer, Jose Joaquin de, his observations on the eclipse of Jupiter's satel-
lites at Laguira, V, 1 89. — his astronomical observations for determin-
ing the geographical position of various places in the U. S. and other
parts of N. A. VI, 158.— his observations of the occultation of a
in Sagittarius by the disk of the moon, &c. 160-— his observations
of the eclipse of the sun on Feb. 21st, 1803, 161— his paper on
geographical positions without the boundary of the U. S. 162. — his
determination of the height of some mountains in New Spain, 164. —
his memoir on the occultation of Aldebaran by the moon &c. 213.
his geographical positions of sundry places in N. A. and in the
West Indies, 221. — his calculations on the passage of Mercury over
the disk of the sun, 226. — his observations made on the eclipse of
the sun, June 16th, 1806, 264, 293, 351, 362. — his observations on~thfe
comet of 1807— 8, 345.— his continuation of astronomical observations
&c. 347. — his notes and corrections to be applied to the geographical
positions inserted from, 158 to 164, 360.
Fibre, animal, experiments made with the nitrous acid, V, 5.
Figure of the earth, observations on, V, 312.
Fire place, descriptions of some improvements in*, V, 320.
Floridas, see Boundary.
Fluids, analysis of those ejected before the black vomiting in yellow fever,
V, 120.
Fly Carrier, account of this insect, V, 150.
Fortifications, on the supposed of the western country, VI, 132.
Fosstls, found in the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 320.
Frazer, John, his description of a stopper for the openings by which the
sewers of cities receive the water of their drains, V, 148.
Freestone quarries, account of those on the Potomac and Rappahannoc rivers,
VI, 283. — situations and directions thereof, 285.*— nature of the stone,
286. — component parts, 286. — colour, 288. — hardness, 288.*— specific
v gravity, 288. — mode of stratification, 288.— cause of this stratification
explained, 289. — difference of cohesion, 289.— quality of the stone as a
building material, 289. — substrata, 289, and superstrata, 290.— 4>est qiuuv
ries now in work, 290. — manner of working the quarries, 291^— hypo-
thesis on the formation of, 291.
Fuel, see Peale.
Digitized by
Google
INDEX.
Garnett, John of fTcw-Rrunswick state of New* Jersey, his description and
use of a new nautical chart, for working the different problems in navi-
gation &c. VI, 303. — his method of finding the roots of numeral
equations Sec. 391.— -his paper on the best angles lor the 6ails of
a wind-mill, 394.
Gas, see Air*
Generation, observations and experiments relating to equivocal or sponta-
neous, VI, 119.
G&graphical positions, on the Atlantic border of the U. S. VI, 158.— in the
rivers Ohio and Mississippi, 159.— without the boundary of the U. S.
162. — of sundry plans in N. A. and the West-Indies, 221 to 225.—
notes and corrections to those inserted from, 158 to 164, 360.
Geology, on that of the U. S. VI, 411.
Geometrical Theorem^ demonstration of one by J. Clay, VI, 201.
Glass, pounded, dissolved in a solution of caustic alkali, V, 8.
Globe, time piece, description of, V, 83.
Gneiss, forms part of the primitive soil of Maryland, VI, 321 — 322.
in the states of New- York and Connecticut, 414.
Godon Mr* his observations to serve for a mineralogical map of the state
of Maryland, VI, 319.
Gold, in aaua regia, experiments on, V, 1 1.— alloyed with palladium, VI, 411.
Guglielmi, his theory on the velocity of rivers at their bottom refuted, VI,
192 & seq.
Gulf-stream, importance of the knowledge of its course in navigation, V, 92.
Gunpowder, defects of that manufactured in the U. S. VI, 246.
H
Hare, Robert Junr. his account of the fusion of strontites and volatilisa-
tion of platinum, and also of a new arrangement of his apparatus,
VI, 99.— his account of a cock with two perforations contrived to ob-
* viate the necessity of a vent-peg in tapping air-tight casks, 105.
Hasslerv F* -ff. Esq* professor in the military school at West-point, extract
from his paper on the meteoric stones, VI, 400.
Havannah, longitude of, VI, 225, 352.
Heat, latent, proportion of in different kinds of air, V, 10^— action of on air
in metallic tubes, 42.
Hematites, found in the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 320.
Hemlock, poisonous qualities of the honey gathered from the flowers of,
V, 62.
Honey, deleterious, on*some kinds of, V,51. — signs by which to distinguish
it, 53. — manner of rendering it innocent, 56. — treatment of persons la-
bouring under the injurious effects of, 56.— cause of its poisonous
qualities, 58. — collected from kalmia angustifolia and latifolia, 59. —
from kalmia hirsuta, 61. — from andromeda mariana, 61. — from rhodo-
dendron maximum, 63. — from azalea nudiflora, 64. — from datura stra-
monium, 64. — noticed by Pliny, 65.— by Xenophon, 67.— by Tow-
nefort, 67. — by Virgil, 68. — by Martyn, 68.
Hornstein, found in the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 320. .
Digitized by
Google
8 • TNDEX.
Ileckewelder, Johnrh\s observations and facts relative to the beaver of N. A.
VI, 209..
India, see Building.
Indian tumulus, account of articles found in one, V, 74.
Indians, North American, language of signs used among, VI, 1. seq.
Insects, observations* on, V, 1.
Instruments, made use of in measuring the boundary line between the U. S.
and the Floridas, V, 204.
Jones, Captain William of Philad. his letter to the President of the Society,
communicating sundry queries proposed by him to William Jones Esq.
ciyil engineer of Calcutta, relative to the principles and practice of
building #i India, with his answer to the same, VI, 375.
. Iron, action of the vapours of caustic fixed alkali on, V, 3. ■ found in the
alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 319. — in the gneiss of the same state,
321, 322.
magnetic, where found in the U. S. VI, 414.
malleable, experiments on that contained in meteoric stones, 341 .
Iron rust, experiments ©n, V, 32.
turnings, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 1.
Islands and shoals, account of some newly discovered in the Indian seas,
VI, 87.
Jupiter, occultation of by the moon, VI, 221.
Jupiter's satellites, eclipses of, observed by J. J.'de Ferrer, V, 189.-— by A.
Ellicott, V, 163, 165, 170,178,179, 180, 182, 185, 186, 188, 189, 191,
192, 194, 196, 197, 213, 214, 215.
——occultation of the first observed by A, Ellicott and Ortiz, VI, 225.
Kalmia, deleterious qualities of different species of, V, 59, 60, 61.
Kinderhook, state of N. T. longitude of, VIf 297. — latitude, ibid.
Kingsleu, James L* his and Professor Silliman's memoir, on the meteoric
stones which fell from the atmosphere, in the state of Connecticut &c.
VI, 323.
Lancaster, Penn. astronomical observations made at, VI, 61, 113.— latitude
of, 297. — longitude, 297. #
Language of signs, dh that uded among the Indians, VI, 1.
Latitude, of Albany, VI, 265, 269, 297.
— Bowdoin College district of Maine, VI, 273, 297.
■ the confluence of the Mississippi and Ohio, V, 169»
——Kinderhook, state of New-York, Vl, 269, 297.
Lancaster Penn. VI, 297.
- ■ ■ Natchez Mississippi territory, V, 190.— VI, 297.
— Newburg, state of New- York, VI, 269, 297.
—New-Orleans, V, 195.— VI, 269, 297.
Digitized by
Google
.INDEX. y
Latitude* of New-¥<wrk, VI, 260, 897. 4
Philadelphia, VI, 297. *
—rPohit Peter, near the mouth of Su Mary's river, V, 287.
Williamsburg, VI, 297.
—first point in the boundary between the U. S. and the Ftoridas, V, 209.
how to be found at sea, see Nautical Chart.
Latrobe, Benj. Henry F. A. P. S. his paper on *he Clupea Tyranmis and
Oniscus Pragustator, V, 77.— -his memoir on two species of Sphex,
inhabiting Virginia and Penn. &c. VI, 73.— his first report to the So-
ciety in ^answer to the inquiry of the society of 'Rotterdam; whether
any, and what improvements have been made 4n the construction of
steatti-engines in America ? £9~-*-=liis account of the freestone«qu9r-
ries on the Potomac and Rappahannoc rivers, 283.
Lead, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 2.
Jtime, experiments on, V, 30.— contained in sea-water, 141.
«"i *cf shells, bow made and used in India, VI, 379.
Jdzard, account of a new species of N. American, VI, 108.
Logarithm*, how to be~applied for finding the roots of nurtioral equations,
VI 391.
Long&udt, of Albany, VI, 265,271,297.
Bowdoin College, district of Maine, VI, 297.
n i the confluence of Mississippi and Ufiio, V, 171-
Havannah, VI, 225, 352.
— tfjnderhook, state of New- York, VI 270, 297.
— — iaguira, VI, 361.
—Lancaster Penn. VI, 297. • „
-i— Natchez, Mississippi territory, V, 189, VI, 225, 297, 364.
Newburg, N. York, VI, 297.
New-Orleans, V, 197, VI, 222, 297. .
—New-York, VI, 297, 360.
-«— Philadelphia, VI, 297, 459.
—-Point Peter near the mouth of St. Mary's rivety V, 284.
—Porto Rico, VI, 213, 214, 220, 221, 222.
—Vera Cruz, VI, 223, 224, 361.
•— WiMiwnsbiirg, VI, 297.
— ^several places by the observation of the passage of Venus, VI, 355.
how found from the moon's .meridian altitude, VI, 277*
how found at sea, see Nautical Chart*
Louisiana, notices of the natural history of the northerly parts of, VI, 69.
Lunar observations, made at the mouth of Chattahocha, V, 199.
M
WKeen, Rev. D* President of Bowdoin College, Maine, his letter on the
solar eclipse, June 16th, 1806, VI, 276.
Mdclure, W. Esq. his observations OB-tbe geology of the U. S. explanatory
of a geological map, VI, 411.
Madison, Bishop, on the supposed fortifications of the western country,
VI, 132. < . ' "
Magellanic prize regulations, V, v, VI, vii.
- awarded, VI, 203, 303, 428.
b
Digitized by
Google
*
10 INDEX.
Magnesia, contained in sea-water, V, 141.— in meteoric stones, VI, 339.
Marine acid, action of its vapour, V, 3, 7.
Marshes, on the circular form of, in the country of Apelousas, VI, 58.
Maryland, mineralogical observations on the state of, VI, 319.
Mercury, passage of, over the disk of the sun, VI, 356.
Metals, theory of oxidation of centrated, V, 33. -
Meteors, account of an extraordinary flight of, VI, 28.
Meteoric stones^ on the origin and composition of those which fell from the
atmosphere at Weston, state of Connecticut, VI, 324.— appearance and
.progress of Ae. meteor, 324, 325, 326— it* extent. 326.— diameter of
the body, 326.-— consequences of the explosion, 327.— -circumstances
attending the first explosion, 327.— circumstances^ttending the second
explosion, 328, 329, 330.— third explosion, 330.— description of the
specimens found, 332.— distinct kinds of matter visible to the eye, 333«
—-chemical analysis of, 334^— hypothesis of President Clapp on, 335.—
experiments on the stone at large, 336.-— on the pyrites, 340.— on the
malleable iron, 341.— -on the irregular black masses, 342.— on the ex-
ternal crust, 342.— on the globular bodiesr343.— paper on the meteoric
stones, by F. R. Hassjer Esq. 4O0.
Meteorological observations, made near the Mississippi for If 99, VI, 9— -£3f
43 — 55,188. v
Method, for finding the equation for the change nf the &ua'» <iecU*wuirm-&c-
VI, 26. — of projecting and measuring plane angles, 29.
Mica, found in the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 319— contained in die
gneiss of the same state, 321.
Mineralogical nomenclature, according to Werner's system, VI, 412.
————— observations, oA the state of Maryland, VI, 319.
: on the»U. S- in general, see Machyre.
Miscellaneous experiments, on Phlogiston, V, 28.
Mississippi, periodical inundations of, VI, 165, 166, 167.*— highest perpen-
dicular ascent from the lowest ebb, 165.— width of its principal chan-
nel below the Ohio, 170. — depth from New-Orleans to its mouth, 172.
— depth at Natchez, 172* — depth below the Ohio, 173.—- utility of its
inundations for the culture of rice, 176. — excess of inundation how
injurious, 177. — prudential exertions against the exeea^of inundation,
177, — salubrity of its water, 177, 178^-<omparisom between the Nile
and this river, 178 — 181.— -elevation of tides and their progress up
the river, 183. — velocity of its stream, 184.— changes of its bed, 185*
—additional observations on its depth -and velocity, 200, & seq.
—~Territpry, Latitude N. 31° 28* Longitude 91° 3tf. — meteorological
observations made there, and account of the progressive vegetation
during every month of the year 1799, VI, 11. — monthly recapitulation
of meteorological observations during 1800, 43.— budding, blooming,
fructification of trees and plants, 44— 48. — times when domestic ani-
,mals bring forth their young, 47, 48.-— general state of die weather
in all the-, months in the year, 44-1-48*— general account of the climate,
48 — $5. — monthly and annual results .of meteorological observations
made there for the years 1801, 1802, 1803 ; 188.
Jlitchell Samuel L. his observations on the soda, magnesia and lime con-
tained in the water of the Ocean, &c* V, 139.
Digitized by
Google
INDEX.
il
Mixture, of dephlogisticated and inflammable air not exploding in red heat,
V, 42.
iron filings and sulphur absorbs fixed air, V, 12.
Moon, see Eclipse,
Mortar, what kind of, used In India, VI, 3/9, 380, 383.— use of brick-dust
in, 285, & seq.
Mugford, Capt. William of Salem, his account and description of a tempo-
rary rudder invented by himself, VI, 203.
Muriate of soda, exceedingly rare in its pure state, V, 143.
Muscipula, vegetable, memorandum concerning a new, VI, 79.
Musk, impurity of the air confined with, V, 10.
N
Natchez, astronomical and thermometrical observations made at, V, 172 —
190 longitude of, V, 188, VI, 159, 225, 297, 361 latitude, V, 190,
VI, 297.
Nautical Chart, description and use of a new and simple one for working
the different problems in navigation &c. VI, 303.
Navigation, use of the thermometer in, V. 90.
Netv-Orleans, astronomical and thermometrical observations made at, V,
191—197 longitude of, V, 19G, iy7, VI, 159, 222, 297 latitude
V, 196, VI, 159, 297-
Nexv-York, longitude of, VI, 297, 360. — latitude, VI, 269, 297.
Nickel, oxide of, contained in meteoric stones, VI, 339.
Nitre, found in common salt when frequently mixed with snow, VI, 129.
obtained from several caves in Kentucky, VI, 236. — from sand works,
241. — quantity contained in the rock ore, 242.
±— vapours of spirit of, observations and experiments on, V, 2.
Nitrate of potash, see Saltpetre.
Nitric acid, various combinations of, VI, 245.
Nitrous acid, how found in the atmosphere, VI, 131.
Nitrous air, see Air*
O
moon,
Observations, meteorological, made near the Mississippi for 1799, VI, 9
Occupation, of o in Sagittarius by the disk of the moon, VI, 160.
$ by the moon, VI, 369. — of different stars by the
360, 361. Vide Ortis.
Occultations, table of the results of three of the stars by the moon, 350.
Officers, of the Society, V, xii for 1804, VI, v. — for 1809, xxi.
Ohio, geographical positions of various places on, VI, 159.
Oleander, Nerhtm, destructive to insects, VI, 81.
Oniscus prargustator, description of, V, 77.
Ortiz, Don Jidian de Canelas, his observations of the occultation of the I
satellite of Jupiter by the moon, VI, 225, 226.
Oxidation, of metals centrated, V, 33.
Oxigen> none in finery cinders, V, 33.— 4ittle in flowers of zinc, 34.
!
Digitized by
Google
12 ItfPSJL
P
Palladium, experiments made on, VI, 407-— characters o£ 410.
Papin's digester, experiment made with, V, 8.
Patterson, fiobert+Txis method of projecting and measuring plane angle*,
VI, 29. — his observations on a lunar eclipse, 59.
Peach trees, method of preventing the premature decay of^ V, 325«— me-
thod of cultivating them, 32r.
Peak, C. W. his description of some improvements m the common fire-
place, V, 320. '
Phenomenon, description of one seen at Baton Rouge, VI, 25*~-*another,41.
Philadelphia, longitude of, VI, 297. — latitude, 297^— statement of deaths,
with the diseases and ages in, from 1807 to 1809, 403.
Phlogisticated air. See *Air.
Phlogiptoji, doctrine of, V, 28.
Phosphoric air, not always inflammable by the admission of atmospheric
air, V, 9.
Phosphorus^ experiments made with, in the nitrous; acid, V, 5.
Planetarium, pendant, description of, V, 87.
Platina, account of the volatilisation oJj, VI, 99fc
Platina in aqua, r#gia, experiments QR»'V, **•
Plumbago* experiments xw, V, %&r — — —
Poisonous honey, account of, V, 51.
Polypes. SctQupont.
Porto-Rico, longitude of, VI, 213* 23Q.
Potash, constituent pj^rts of, , VI, 344.
Precipitate per se, experiments on* V, %% *
Premium, conditions of the Magellanic, V, vwVI, viL
Pressure, e$fertp of* in the absorptipn of air by water, V, 24.
Priestley, Dr. Joseph, his experiments on the transmission of acids and
other liquors in the form o,f v^qurs, over several substances in a hot
earthen tube, V, K-i-experime^ts relating to the change of ptece m
different kinds of air, &c. 14.— experiments relating to the absorption
of air by water, 21. — miscellaneous experiments relating to the doc-
trine of phlogiston, 28.— experiments on the production tif air by the
freezing of water, 36.— experiments on air exposed to heat in metallic
tubes, 42.— observations and experiments relating to equivocal or spon-
taneous generation, VL, 119, — observations on the discovery of nitre
in common salt wfccjv had been, frequently mixed wiA Tmow, lftPt- ■
proceedings of the Society on his death,, 190.
Primitive soil of the staje of M^rylsmd^ VI, 3&1 .-^-extent of, m the Unite*
States* 413.
Pyrites, experiments, on those found, in: meteoric stones* VI* 34U
Phosphorus, how made, V, t&-rwq?mmm*& W 8&
Quarries. Set Freestone.
Quartz, qoptajned in, tfee g&e#s. of Ma^yla^d>, VB> 322*
S%uarJzosc sand, constitutes the alluvial soil of Maryland, VI, 319.
Digitized by
Google
INDEX. 14
Sukilime, experiments relative to the weight it acquires by exposure to the
air, V, 12.
R
Rhododendron, poisonous effects of several species of, V, 63.
Roofs, how constructed in India, VI, 380.
Rosebay. See Oleander.
S
Sagittarius, occultation of o in, VI, 160.
Sotting. See Nbuticcd chart.
Satis. See Wind-mill.
Saltpetre, method of making it in Kentucky, VI, 239— how obtained in
Spain, 243.
Satellites*, vide Jupiter*
Sea-water, where/ore unfit for washing clothes, V, 144*— how to be render-
ed fit for washing, 146.
Septic acid, \a sea-water, V, 141.
Sewers of cities, description of a stopper for them, V, 148.
Shoals, account of some newly discovered in the Indian seas, VI, £7*
Sign* y on th# language of, used hy oome North American Indians, VX, 1 •
Silex, contained in meteoric stones, VI, 339.
Silliman, Benj. Professor of Chemistry in Tale College, Conn, his and Mr.
Kingslejrs memoir on the origin and composition of the meteoric stones
which fell from the atmosphere at Weston, state of Connecticut, &c
VI* 323*p<~his. chemical examination of the stones, 335.
Soda, contained in sea-water, V, 141*— is the basis of all hard soap, 145.
Soil, alluvial, of the state of Maryland, VI, 319.
— — primitive, of the state of Maryland, VI, 321.
Spanish America, boundary line between it and the United States, measu-
red by A. Ellicott, V, 203.
Sphex, oa two species of, inhabiting Virginia and Pennsylvania, VI, T3.
Spirit of nitre* See Nitre.
Stars, obeoting, account of, VI, 28*
SUaturengine, report on A^ improvements node in their construction in
America, VI, 89.
Stopper, description of one for drains, in the sewers of cities, V, 148.
Strickland, WiUtam, his paper on the use of the thermometer in navigation,
V, 90.
Strontites, account of the fusion of* VI, 99.
Sugar, on the process of claying, VI, 82.— on the cultivation of, in Loui-
siana^ MM.
Sulphur, puoduced by heating water impregnated wMi vitriolic acid air, V,
. a«*~«ontained in meteoric stones, VI, 339;
Sun*, diameter of, VI, 216, 232.
,,,, nedipae . ofL See Eclipse.
Swallows, on the hybernation of, VI, 59.
Digitized by
Google
14 INDEX..
Talc, contained in the gneiss of Maryland, VI, 321.
chloritic, in the primitive soil of Maryland, 322.
Terraces, how constructed in India, VI, 380.— in the United States, 390.
Thermometer, use of in navigation, V, 90.— mode of suspending and pro-
per situation of, VI, 10.
Thermometrical observations, made at the confluence of the Mississippi and
Ohio rivers, V, 163. — made in measuring the boundary line between
the United States and the Floridas, 203^— made during a voyage from
England to America, 96.
Thomas, officer on board the* American ship Ganges, his account of some new-
ly discovered islands and shoals, VI, 87.
Timber, experiments made on tlje weight and strength of that used in Ben-
gal, VI, 382.— use of in walls, 383.
Time-piece, in the form of a globe, described, V, 82.
Tin, action of the vapour of spirit of nitre on, V, 2.
Tourmaline, found in the primitive soil of Maryland, VI, 322.
Transit, of Mercury, May, 1799, observed by A. Ellicott, V, 197.
Tripoli, a sort of clay, found in Maryland, VI, 320.
Tumulus, articles found in an Indian, V, 74.
Turner, George, his-mcmoir on ceTtaJn articles foundJn an Indian Murmlns
at Cincinnati, V, 74.
U
United States, boundary between, and the Floridas, determined by astrono-
mical observations, V, 203.-— See also Maclure.
Vapour. See Priestley*
Vaughan, John, his communication of observations made at Bowdoin Col-
lege, on the solar eclipse of 1 806, VI, 275. — letter addressed to him
by pitofessor Silliman and Mr. Kingsley^ on the meteoric stones, 323.
—extract of a letter relative to the great cold in January, 1807, at
JBallowell, Maine, 401.
Vegetables. See Dupont.
Velocity, on the comparative, of rivers at their bottom and their surface,
VI, 194.
Venus, passage of, over the disk of the sun, VI, 352.
Vera Cruz, New, longitude of, VI, 223, 361.
Volcanic productions, no where found to the east of the Mississippi, VI, 414v
Vomit, blacky in the yellow fever, description of, V, 117. — appearance of, in
1797, 119— fluids ejected before die commencement of, 120.— analysis
of, 121. — effects of on the living system, 128.— opinions of authors
concerning, 132. — considered by Dr. Cathrajl as an altered secretion
from the bile, 136.
Digitized by
Google
INDEX. 15
W
Walls,how constructed in India, VI, 378.— use of timber in, 388.
Washings how to render sea-water fit for, V, 145,
Water ', absorption of different kinds of air by, V, 22.— experiments on, 32*
—air produced by the freezing of, 36.
of the ocean. See Mitchell.
Watkins, Dr. John, his notices of the natural history of the northern parts
of Louisiana, VI, 69.
Weather, in the Mississippi territory. See Mississippi territory.
Williams , Jonathan, Esq. his paper on the process of claying sugar, VI, 82.
WUliamsburgJongitnde of, VI, 297. — latitude, 297.
Williamson, Dr. his paper on the ephoron leukon, or white fly of Passaick
river, V, 71.
Wind-mills, on the best angles for the sails of, VI, 394.
Winds, on the theory of, VI, 32. — in the Mississippi territory. See Missis-
sippi territory.
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
Digitized by
Google
«*
a'
?*£
srr:
A FINE IS INCURRED IF THIS BOOK IS
NOT RETURNED TO THE LIBRARY ON
OR BEFORE THE LAST DATE STAMPED
BELOW.
«
Wlden«r LiDrai
y v«k
3 2044 089 272 488
z't ■
a*
^..-
,tf3
»^T
V*
1
■w--
>
^^
.<<*.
* a ;
■
*
J
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11