Life of Richard Trevithick, with an Account of His Inventions. Volume 2 (of 2)

Richard Trevithick, a restless engineer of the early 19th century, transformed the fledgling world of steam power with his bold ideas. The biography follows his rise from modest workshops to the forefront of industrial innovation, highlighting his daring high‑pressure engines that challenged the dominant Watt designs. It also paints a vivid picture of his ambitions, setbacks, and the fierce rivalries that marked his career.

Volume two surveys the astonishing variety of Trevithick’s creations—from mining pumps and agricultural threshers to portable steam puffers and early locomotives for the West India Docks. Each entry shows how he adapted high‑pressure steam to new tasks, often confronting technical glitches and patent disputes. The account reveals the practical challenges of turning visionary concepts into working machines.

Rich wood engravings accompany the text, letting listeners visualize the clanking pistons and roaring boilers that defined Trevithick’s era. It’s a compelling glimpse into the origins of modern engineering.