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I am trying to trace details of a hydraulic engine designed by an ancestor of mine, (William Whitham, 1795-1865). I quote from a family letter dated July 3rd 1864. 'I received the final order for the Hurst Mine engine the 9th of last month and, on the same day, engaged the Messrs Walker and Sands of Heckmondwike to make them. Two months ago when I was sent for to Richmond I found no less a competitor in the field than the celebrated Sir William Armstrong whose rifled cannons and hydraulic cranes have rendered him so famous. ...... There are two descriptions of duty to be performed by the hydraulic power in our lead mines, namely pumping out the waters and raising all the minerals from the depths to the surface. Both these tasks I have performed with one engine, Sir William says he must have two engines, one to raise the waters, and the other to raise the minerals; and accordingly his drawings embody two engines. His price he estimated at 1110 pounds; my price is just 500 pounds. ...... The engine will be ready about the first week in October; but before that time I shall have employment at Hurst in making peparations.' I would be grateful if anyone could give ANY information about this engine, Ideally I should like to know if any drawings exist. A few years ago I contacted Beamish museum, the Institute of mechanical engineers, Richmond Museum, Northallerton Library, Peak District Mining Museum, Earby Mines Research Group, Northern Mine Research Society, The Cambourne School of Mines and the Patent Office, all with no luck! Many thanks, Bryan. _________________________________________________________________________ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com.