In 1829, Nasmyth (then 20), determined to join the firm of engineers and tool-makers of Henry Maudslay in London: 'I was told that his works were the very centre and climax of all that was excellent in mechanical workmanship' (James Nasmyth (ed. Samuel Smiles), James Nasmyth, Engineer - An Autobiography, John Murray, London 1883, p. 120).
A Marine Steam Engine of 220 Horses by James Hall Nasmyth. [Click on thumbnail for larger image and additional information.]
Maudslay disliked taking on of 'premium' (paying) apprentices. To persuade him. Nasmyth showed him a working model of one of Maudslay's own steam engines, that he had built himself, right down to the forging and casting of every component, and a set of mechanical drawings he had made. Maudslay was so impressed he took Nasmyth on as his personal assistant workman, and gave him a salary. Maudslay at this time was building a new marine engine of unprecedented power and efficiency (at his own risk because it had not been commissioned). It proved successful, however, and further engines of 220 hp were then commissioned by the Admiralty. Nasmyth was tasked by Maudslay to draw them: 'Mechanical drawing is the alphabet of the engineer. Without this the workman is merely, a "hand." With it he indicates the possession of "a head".... It was a branch of delineative art that my father had carefully taught me. Throughout my professional life I have found this art to be of the utmost practical value' (ibid, p. 122).
Nasmyth, whose older brother Patrick was the landscape painter, went on to a distinguished career as one of the great engineers of the Industrial Revolution, including the invention of the steam hammer. He was also an amateur astronomer, and built his own telescopes.
Bibliography
The Maas Gallery [Exhibition Catalogue]. London: Maas Gallery, 2010.
The Maas Gallery, London has most generously given its permission to use in the
Readers should consult the gallery website to obtain information about recent exhibitions and to order their catalogues. [GPL]
Last modified 16 June 2010