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IEEC4 2026 – Proposed papers updated
As we head into Autumn, we’re pleased to report that the response to the IEEC4 Call for Papers has been promising and the updated list of proposals is given below. Please note, our Call for Papers for the IEEC4 in March 2026 is still open until the end of October 2025 if you would like to contribute a presentation – contact admin@earlyengines.org Author Title Steve Grudgings Calley to Curr (revisited and with specific Bristol references) Steve Dewhirst William Reynolds and his sketchbook John Crompton The Earl’s Own Engineer? Rick Stewart The Coster Family and their pumps Ben Russell The beginning and end of the coal fired economy Ben Russell Engine…
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Research Snippets – On Brass cylinders
Dr John Kanefsky writes: In my paper to IEEC2 on the Norris Files, I referred briefly to the paucity of evidence about brass cylinders for Newcomen engines [Kanefsky (2021), Coalbrookdale, Cornwall and Cylinders, pp.6-7 – see also early access version]. However, an advertisement in the Newcastle Courant for 3rd April 1725 sheds a little light. In it, a Mr William Packer of Bristol who has relocated to Newcastle offers to cast, among a wide variety of other items, “all Sorts of Brass-work for Fire-Engines for the Coal Works”. Little is known about Packer. From a brief search on the internet it appears he as active as a bell-founder and supplier…
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First look – IEEC3 Conference Programme 2024
Draft Programme Following the excellent response to the call for papers, the IEEC3 organisers are delighted to provide the first draft programme, prepared in collaboration with the host venue, Summerlee Industrial Museum in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, Scotland. Running from Friday 22nd to Sunday 24th March 2024, the 3 day conference has a full programme of papers and activities. Additional industrial site excursions are being arranged at separate cost on Thursday 21st and Monday 25th March
