-
IEEC4 2026 – Proposed papers updated
We’re pleased to report that the response to the IEEC4 Call for Papers has been promising and the latest updated list of proposals is given below. (revised January 2026) Please note, our Call for Papers for the IEEC4 in March 2026 closed at the end of October 2025 Author Title Steve Grudgings Calley to Curr (revisited and with specific Bristol references) Rick Stewart The Coster Family and their pumps Ben Russell The beginning and end of the coal fired economy Ben Russell Engine Builders and Enginewrights Steve Grudgings Bristol’s Engine Builders Steve Grudgings Water Shafts – An exploration of definitions and purposes Carol Crompton The Earl’s Own Engineer? Steve Grudgings…
-
Book review: Sir George Bruce’s Coal Mines in the Sea – Mining under the sea at Culross 1575-1676
Donald Adamson and Robert Yates, Sir George Bruce’s Coal Mines in the Sea – Mining under the sea at Culross 1575-1676, Carnegie Crucible Books, August 2025 – 9781905472239 (Pbk, 228 pages, 120 illustrations) – Price £20.00 – Available from the publisher’s website £20.00 Book Review by IEEC chair, Steve Grudgings I need to declare an interest from the outset. I have met and corresponded with the authors, watched their presentation on this topic at IEEC3, and visited the area concerned! I also have a considerable interest in and a little knowledge of early coal mining practices and technologies. This 228 page book provides a much more detailed and informed account…
-
Book Launch – Charles P. Dixon, John Curr: the man who revolutionised mining, 2025
IEEC are always pleased to share new research and support publications sharing the results of original research into topics related to our core early engines theme. This post shares details of Charles P. Dixon’s work on noted mining engineer and entrepreneur John Curr, published in August 2025, the result of almost four years of investigation and preparation. Charles P. Dixon, John Curr: the man who revolutionised mining, London: Heritage Hunter, August 2025, 9781905315888, 272 pages. £25.00 About the book In the latter half of the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution was accelerating and demand for coal soaring. However, as tonnages increased and mines became deeper the need for new technologies…
