James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819.

Made:
1790-1819
maker:
James Watt
James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819. James Watt's Garret Workshop, used 1790-1819.

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Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Upwards of 6,600 objects, as detailed in the inventory hereto annexed, being contents of the private workshop of James Watt from his house of Heathfield, Birmingham, where he lived from 1790 to his death in 1819 (see part records)

Upwards of 6,600 objects, as detailed in the inventory hereto annexed, being contents of the private workshop of James Watt from his house of Heathfield, Birmingham, where he lived from 1790 to his death in 1819

Details

Category:
James Watt's Garret Workshop
Object Number:
1924-792
Measurements:
overall: 6100 x 8400 mm (approximate)
type:
workshop - work space
credit:
Major J.M. Gibson-Watt

Parts

Soldering iron from James Watt's workshop

1 Soldering bolt, broken, piece of copper attached by wire.

More

This object is part of the contents of the workshop which belonged to Scottish engineer James Watt, best known for his work on the steam engine. It is a ruined soldering iron. The iron shank lacks its wooden handle. The copper bit has been broken, and is loosely attached to the shank with wire. It is unusable in this state. The workshop contents consist of a mixture of ongoing projects, and also items from Watt's working career stretching back to his early work as an instrument-maker in Glasgow.

Materials:
iron , copper and wood
Object Number:
1924-792/1
type:
soldering iron
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Arm for dividing apparatus built by James Watt

An arm for the dividing apparatus built by James Watt, and preserved in his workshop. (see Table in centre of room)

More

This object is part of the contents of the workshop which belonged to Scottish engineer James Watt, best known for his work on the steam engine. It is an arm for the linear dividing apparatus also present in the workshop, which was used to produce the graduated linear scales used on scientific instruments such as barometers. the arm was apparently the second of three - the first lies on the desk to the left of the workshop window, while the third is fitted to the apparatus itself.

The workshop contents consist of a mixture of ongoing projects, in large part around sculpture and sculpture-copying which occupied Watt’s retirement years, and also items from Watt's working career stretching back to his early work as an instrument-maker in Glasgow.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/2
type:
arm
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Saw in wood frame, from James Watt's workshop

A saw in wood frame, broken and worm eaten

More

This object is part of the contents of the workshop which belonged to Scottish engineer James Watt, best known for his work on the steam engine.

These are parts of a bow-saw, a type designed to allow the workman to cut a curved kerf, comprising: blade; two end-knobs (one damaged), one turned end-frame; and the twisted string of a Spanish windlass. Two fragments of the other end-frame, ruined by woodworm - almost certainly during the 19th century - lie on the floor. The blade should be pinned to the two knobs which pass through holes at the lower ends of the end-frames. The latter embrace a strut, forming an H, and their upper ends are strained together by the Spanish windlass. An improvised strut, and twist stick for the Spanish windlass, are in drawer 2 of the tall chest of drawers also present in the workshop.

The workshop contents consist of a mixture of ongoing projects, in large part around sculpture and sculpture-copying which occupied Watt’s retirement years, and also items from Watt's working career stretching back to his early work as an instrument-maker in Glasgow.

Materials:
steel (metal) and wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/3
type:
saw
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Two drill drivers from James Watt's workshop

Two drill drivers, one without catgut

More

These objects are part of the contents of the workshop which belonged to Scottish engineer James Watt, best known for his work on the steam engine. The workshop contents consist of a mixture of ongoing projects, in large part around sculpture and sculpture-copying which occupied Watt’s retirement years, and also items from Watt's working career stretching back to his early work as an instrument-maker in Glasgow.

These two items are drill bows, for working a drill fitted to a stock with a “ferrule” or pulley for the gut. A length of thin gut (not present), fastened between the tip of the steel blade and the peg near the handle, is looped once around the ferrule and given a suitable tension by turning the peg. The drill point is placed in a prepared punch-mark, and the other end of the stock is supported in a depression in either a breastplate, a block held in the hand, or some other convenient place such as the side of the bench vice. The bow is worked up and down to rotate the drill, while pressure is applied either to the workpiece or to the article supporting the back of the stock. This bow is a proprietary article. For similar ones, see the catalogue of Lancashire toolmaker John Wyke, but this example has no maker’s mark. Examples of the type of drill for which it was intended are found elsewhere in the workshop too. The second item is another drill bow, similar to the previous but larger and probably not a trade article. It appears to be made from the blade of a sword, a fairly common practice. The blade has a maker’s stamp: a circle and cross portraying an orb or (the other way up) the conventional symbol for the planet Venus. A length of gut remains on the winding peg.

Materials:
unidentified
Object Number:
1924-792/4
type:
drill driver
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Pair of Tongs

Pair of tongs from James Watt's workshop, 1790-1819.

More

This pair of tongs with a “scissors” joint may have been a crude domestic tongs for use in the workshop of Scottish engineer James Watt, for handling coal for the stove or for managing a taper, but it is more probably to have been a workshop tool for manipulating small crucibles and other articles in the fire - Watt used the stove in his workshop for chemical experiments, and a number of crucibles, some filled with the contents from their last experiment, also survive in the workshop.

Materials:
wrought iron
Object Number:
1924-792/5
type:
tongs
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

rake from James Watt's workshop

An iron rake for stove.

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is an iron tool for managing a hot crucible, used in the workshop of Scottish engineer James Watt at his home at Handsworth, Birmingham. The lower end is formed as a part of a circle, rather more than a semicircle, to be placed round the tapered crucible and raised to grip and lift it; the upper end of the long handle is formed as a closed grip. Watt was interested in chemistry and mineralogy. He altered the room stove to use it as a furnace, and a number of crucibles survive in the room. Most, however, are smaller than the size that this tool is made to fit.

Materials:
wrought iron
Object Number:
1924-792/6
type:
rake
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

model factory from James Watt's workshop

1 Model of Soho Manufactory, worm eaten

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The model's interior comprised over one hundred moveable wooden parts to represent internal walls. However, a study of prints showing the Soho Manufactory shows that the model cannot, in fact, have represented that building - so, its subject remains a mystery.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/7
type:
model
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

3 Wood patterns from model of building (inv. 1924-792/7)

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The model's interior comprised over one hundred moveable wooden parts to represent internal walls. However, a study of prints showing the Soho Manufactory shows that the model cannot, in fact, have represented that building - so, its subject remains a mystery.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/8
type:
patterns
Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

12 Pieces of wood, various sizes, from model of building (inv. 1924-792/7)

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The model's interior comprised over one hundred moveable wooden parts to represent internal walls. However, a study of prints showing the Soho Manufactory shows that the model cannot, in fact, have represented that building - so, its subject remains a mystery.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/9
type:
piece of wood
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

Components forming part of model factory from James Watt's workshop

Part of roof of oak model of factory

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The model's interior comprised over one hundred moveable wooden parts to represent internal walls. However, a study of prints showing the Soho Manufactory shows that the model cannot, in fact, have represented that building - so, its subject remains a mystery.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/10
type:
model
drawer from James Watt's workshop

drawer from James Watt's workshop

Top drawer

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/11
type:
drawer

One packet, 'experiment paper on copying', from James Watt's workshop

1 Packet ‘Experiment paper on copying’

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

the item comprises a loosely tied bundle, in a paper wrapper endorsed, in very small handwriting: ‘Experiment paper on copying’. The contents seem to be small slips of unsized paper on which copy-impressions have been taken. The changing details noted on each slip suggest that they were experiments in the paper and ink ingredients used in the process of letter-copying developed by Watt.

Materials:
ink and paper (fibre product)
Object Number:
1924-792/12
type:
packet
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Broken piece of furniture from James Watt's workshop

Broken piece of furniture from James Watt's workshop

1 Carved wood leaf, gilt

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The item is a broken piece from a gilt gesso picture frame or piece of similarly carved furniture.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/13
type:
carving
Lathe lap for polishing, from James Watt's workshop

Lathe lap for polishing, from James Watt's workshop

1 Circular steel plate and spindle

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is an iron lap for use in the lathe, the spindle having a tapered square end to fit a square-hole driver chuck. A lap is charged with a paste of abrasive grit (such as emery) in water or oil, and work to be ground or polished is held against it as it rotates. Laps are used for working hard materials, such as steel or stone. This one might have been used for preparing the edges of lenses or other glass articles. Note that elsewhere in the room are many lenses with rough-chipped edges that would have to be dressed before mounting.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/14
type:
steel plate and spindle
Feed screw from James Watt's workshop

Feed screw from James Watt's workshop

1 Long steel screw in square brass block with flat steel spring attached, and piece of square steel screwed to other end of spring, and screw in steel block

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The item appears to be a feed-screw for an unidentified piece of apparatus, allowing one of its component parts to be moved very accurately. It is similar in conception to the feed mechanism used on Watt's equal-size sculpture copying machine, also present in the workshop.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy) and steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/15
type:
screws and blocks
Try-square from James Watt's workshop

Try-square from James Watt's workshop

1 Piece of semi-circular cast lead with steel arm screwed on.

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. The purpose of this item is unknown, but it may have been intended as a try-square.

Materials:
lead (metal) and steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/17
type:
piece of lead
Piece of semi-circular cast lead

Piece of semi-circular cast lead

1 Piece of semi-circular cast lead without arm

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This item may be a try-square.

Materials:
lead (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/18
type:
piece of lead
Piece of steel

Piece of steel

1 Piece of steel 6” long ¼” triangular in section

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This prismatic-section steel arm has broken away from the item it previously formed part of, inv. 1924-792/18.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/19
type:
piece of steel
model for drilling frame, from James Watt's workshop

model for drilling frame, from James Watt's workshop

1 Wood pattern of drill frame, single pulley, for reducing machine

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is a model of the drill-frame used in Watt's reducing machine for copying sculptures, also present in his workshop. This full-sized wooden model was made, most likely by Watt, to show the workman who was going to make the finished item what was wanted. It is important evidence of the way in which information was commonly conveyed between workers, at a time when technical drawing was in its infancy and the ability to read drawings could not be taken for granted.

Materials:
wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/20
type:
pattern
A sharpening stone from James Watt's workshop

A sharpening stone from James Watt's workshop

1 Sharpening stone

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This is a broken razor-hone

Materials:
stone
Object Number:
1924-792/21
type:
whetstone
Two long brass thumbscrews from James Watt's workshop

Two long brass thumbscrews from James Watt's workshop

2 Long brass thumbscrews

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This pair of thumbscrews come from one of the perspective drawing apparatus made by Watt while working as an instrument maker in Glasgow.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/23
type:
thumbscrews
Steel screws from James Watt's workshop

Steel screws from James Watt's workshop

3 Short steel screws

More

This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. These are machine screws with cheese heads.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/24
type:
three steel screws
Fine file from James Watt's workshop

Fine file from James Watt's workshop

1 Fine file 5” three cornered

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/25
type:
file

Two cutters with screw ends from James Watt's workshop

2 Cutters with screw end

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. These items are drills for Watt's sculpture copying machines - they could be used to remove material from plaster blanks to produce the final finished shape as a copy of an original. they had screw ends so that they could be easily removed and swapped for coarser or finer tools.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/26
type:
cutters
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Thin strips of mahogany

Thin strips of mahogany

6 Thin strips of mahogany (?broken pattern)

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
mahogany (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/28
type:
mahogany
Bundle of wool from James Watt's workshop

Bundle of wool from James Watt's workshop

1 Small bundle of wool

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.This material may have been associated with the pad tied to the swinging frame of the equal-size sculpture-copying machine, placed there by Watt to provide a cushion in case he struck his head on it as it worked.

Materials:
wool (unspecified)
Object Number:
1924-792/29
type:
wool
Brass cog wheels

Brass cog wheels

2 Solid and 3 open brass cog wheels ) sizes 1½ “, 1¾”, 2”, 2½”, 3¾ “ dia.

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. These wheels comprise a heavy brass gear wheel of the type found in roasting jacks, a clock great wheel, a clock centre wheel, an unfiinished wheel and disc wheel, all unfinished.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/30
type:
cogs
Screws from James Watt's workshop

Screws from James Watt's workshop

9 Screws wrapped in paper

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/31
type:
screws
Piping from James Watt's workshop

Piping from James Watt's workshop

1 Bent piece of piping (?lead)

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

These items are two pieces of what appears to be gas pipe. There exists evidence that Watt's workshop at one time had gas jets, fed by piping run on the surface. Such an installation made during Watt’s lifetime would be remarkably early. It is a possibility, seeing that the Soho Foundry were early manufacturers of gas apparatus, but it is by no means certain. It appears that this installation had been removed prior to the transfer of the contents of the room to South Kensington.

Materials:
lead (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/32
type:
piping
Piping from James Watt's workshop

Piping from James Watt's workshop

1 Straight piece of piping

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

These items are two pieces of what appears to be gas pipe. There exists evidence that Watt's workshop at one time had gas jets, fed by piping run on the surface. Such an installation made during Watt’s lifetime would be remarkably early. It is a possibility, seeing that the Soho Foundry were early manufacturers of gas apparatus, but it is by no means certain. It appears that this installation had been removed prior to the transfer of the contents of the room to South Kensington.

Materials:
lead (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/33
type:
piping
Square bolts

Square bolts

2 Square bolts screwed at end, one has nut and washer, one with washer only

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
metal (ferrous)
Object Number:
1924-792/34
type:
bolts
Huntsman steel from James Watt's workshop

Huntsman steel from James Watt's workshop

1 Flat piece of iron 10” x ⅜” x ⅛”

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This bar is stamped B.HUNTSMAN, indicating that it is almost certainly a piece of Benjamin Huntsman’s crucible-cast steel. It appears to have been rolled, as a commercial article, to a section suitable for making small tools. Huntsman, a clockmaker who was interested in developing a superior material for the manufacture of springs, introduced his crucible-cast steel in 1740. This material was significantly more homogeneous than steel produced by earlier processes.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/35
type:
piece of iron
Spanners from James Watt's workshop

Spanners from James Watt's workshop

3 Small spanners, 1 broken

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel , cast iron and wrought iron
Object Number:
1924-792/36
type:
spanner
Brass collars from James Watt's workshop

Brass collars from James Watt's workshop

2 Small brass collars, each with 2 screws in

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/37
type:
collar and screw
Weight from James Watt's workshop

Weight from James Watt's workshop

1 Half pound weight

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
cast iron
Object Number:
1924-792/38
type:
weight
Weight from James Watt's workshop

Weight from James Watt's workshop

1 Two oz. Weight

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
cast iron
Object Number:
1924-792/39
type:
weight

Watchmaker's turn from the workshop of James Watt

1 Watchmaker's turn, with 2 shifting pieces on arm, movable rest, and 4 thumbscrews

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This is an incomplete Lancashire-pattern turns of the conventional pattern. The tool lacks the horizontal sliding part of the rest and the rest itself, and the runners are rough replacements. It bears no maker’s stamp or other distinguishing mark. It has suffered considerable wear, so either it dates from Watt’s Glasgow period or Watt obtained it second-hand.

Measurements:
overall: 65 mm x 170 mm x 60 mm,
Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/40
type:
turn
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Piece of steel

Piece of steel

1 U shaped piece of steel with thumbscrew in bottom, square holes other ends

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This item may have been part of one of Watt's sculpture copying machines, which remain in his workshop.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/41
type:
piece of steel
Piece of cast brass

Piece of cast brass

1 Piece of cast brass 3” x 2¼” x ½” with hole in centre

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/42
type:
piece of brass
hinge from James Watt's workshop

hinge from James Watt's workshop

1 Brass hinge 1”, no hole for screws

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/43
type:
hinge
Conical piece of brass

Conical piece of brass

1 Conical piece of brass 1½” x ¼”, hole through, screw one end, screw part broken

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/45
type:
cone
Piece of paper with writing in French

Piece of paper with writing in French

1 Piece of paper with writing in French

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
paper (fibre product)
Object Number:
1924-792/46
type:
note
Piece of round brass

Piece of round brass

1 Piece of round brass with seven holes and two iron screws in

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/47
type:
screws
Clock key

Clock key

1 Clock key

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/48
type:
clock key
Clock key

Clock key

1 Clock key, in wood handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This may be a tuning key for a harpsichord or similar instrument, reflecting Watt's involvement in the manufacture and sale of musical instruments while working as a scientific instrument maker in glasgow prior to 1774

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/49
type:
key
Steel square hole keys

Steel square hole keys

2 Steel square hole keys, in wood handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/50
type:
keys
Piece of wire

Piece of wire

1 Piece of wire, bent end, wood handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/52
type:
wire
Wood pattern for cutter

Wood pattern for cutter

1 Wood pattern for cutter

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

The word 'pattern' introduces the possibility of some confusion here, with its associations with cast iron work. the word 'model' might be more appropriate, for here is a cylindrical piece of ash wood, the ends of which have been cut to represent the teeth of a drill for one of the sculpture-copying machines on an enlarged scale. This model seems to have been used for exploring or for indicating to a workman how the teeth might be cut. One end, cut straight across, has notches cut across nearly radially, forming teeth at the edge; the other is rounded, and is cut over obliquely rather like the scales of a pineapple. Burrs of this latter form are to be found amongst the drills. This is a significant relic showing how information could be communicated when drawing skills might not always be available.

Materials:
ash (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/53
type:
pattern
Piece of glass tube

Piece of glass tube

1 Piece of glass tube

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
glass
Object Number:
1924-792/54
type:
glass tube
Pieces of brass

Pieces of brass

2 Pieces of brass, 1” x ¾” screwed together, 4 screws, with arms slit and screwed through

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is a composite nut for a machine, designed to work without backlash on its screw. It is made in two halves, screwed together with a longitudinal joint. The arrangement is comparable with that of the nut on the linear dividing engine also present in Watt's workshop (inv. 1924-792/2008, in which the swinging arm is jointed to the nut through gimbals, and very probably this nut is part of an earlier attempt at such an apparatus. It happens that the nut fits the screw used as the feed rack of the engine.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/55
type:
piece of brass
Solid brass headed screw

Solid brass headed screw

1 Solid brass headed screw, with round piece of brass fixed on end and movable piece between

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/56
type:
screw
Cast iron bearing in two pieces

Cast iron bearing in two pieces

1 Cast iron bearing in two pieces, hollowed across top

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This is a pair of unfinished iron castings, made from the same patterns as those forming the clamp for supporting the drill spindle in the equal sculpture machine present in the workshop.

Materials:
cast iron
Object Number:
1924-792/57
type:
bearing
Large brass cap

Large brass cap

1 Large brass cap in two pieces

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/58
type:
brass cap
Pointed piece of boxwood

Pointed piece of boxwood

1 Pointed piece of boxwood

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
box (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/59
type:
boxwood
Circular iron plates

Circular iron plates

2 Circular iron plates, two small holes in each

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
iron
Object Number:
1924-792/60
type:
plates
Circular piece of brass

Circular piece of brass

1 Circular piece of brass, five holes in

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/61
type:
circle
Boxwood pulley

Boxwood pulley

1 Boxwood pulley noted by Collins

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
box (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/62
type:
pulley
Half round mahogany pattern

Half round mahogany pattern

1 Half round mahogany pattern, hollowed at bottom

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This is half of a core-box, used for making iron castings. It may well be associated with Watt's construction of his two sculpture copying machines, both present in the workshop.

Materials:
mahogany (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/63
type:
pattern
2” washers

2” washers

4 2” washers, rounded one side

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

These washers are typical of their time, being forged slightly rounded on one face so as to ensure that the corners of the nut would not catch, and having holes and peripheries that are left from the forging, not truly circular

Materials:
unidentified
Object Number:
1924-792/64
type:
washers
Piece of tinfoil

Piece of tinfoil

1 Piece of tinfoil

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
tin (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/67
type:
tinfoil
Pieces of iron wire

Pieces of iron wire

29 Pieces of iron wire, etc., parts of tools wrapped in paper

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
iron
Object Number:
1924-792/68
type:
wire
Piece of iron

Piece of iron

1 Piece of iron, U shaped 3 holes in

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
iron
Object Number:
1924-792/69
type:
piece of iron
Piece of brass wire

Piece of brass wire

1 Piece of brass wire bent round one end

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This appears to be a curtain-ring of brass wire, which has been strained open

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/71
type:
wire
Piece of string

Piece of string

1 Piece of string

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
sisal
Object Number:
1924-792/73
type:
string

Packet “brass turnings”

1 Packet “brass turnings”

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.The label on the modern outer packet is incorrectly marked “brass filings”; The original wrapper, of printed paper, is endorsed “brass turnings” by Watt, and that is what the contents are. Such granulated brass is use as a hard solder, in making brazed joints in iron or steel.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/74
type:
turnings
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Piece of mahogany with screws in

Piece of mahogany with screws in

1 Piece of mahogany with screws in (?bearing cover)

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
mahogany (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/75
type:
mahogany
Mahogany patterns

Mahogany patterns

8 Mahogany patterns, tied together

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

These items are heads for the tripod legs of Watt’s Perspective Apparatus, made c1765 while he was working as an instrument maker in Glasgow. The apparatus was supplied with a set of three tapered tinplate tubes to form a tripod which, nested together, were intended to be carried as a walking-cane. A pair of the present articles was required for each set; the lower end of each was plugged into the head of one of the tubes, for which reason the two were of different diameters. The innermost tube had a wooden fitting of a different form which was probably a fixture in the tube. In use, the legs were attached to the box forming the easel by brass thumbscrews. The pieces bear stamped numbers on their flat faces, presumably for the owner’s use in assembling the apparatus.

Materials:
mahogany (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/76
type:
patterns
Long piece of brass

Long piece of brass

1 Long piece of brass, with pointer one end and hole the other end, with sliding piece

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
brass (copper, zinc alloy)
Object Number:
1924-792/77
type:
piece of brass
Piece of cast lead

Piece of cast lead

1 Piece of cast lead

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
lead (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/78
type:
lead
Paint brush

Paint brush

1 Paint brush

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This may have been a glue- or dusting-brush for use in the workshop.

Materials:
hair
Object Number:
1924-792/79
type:
paint brush
Piece of flat steel

Piece of flat steel

1 Piece of flat steel

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.The “flat steel” is a thin spring, with screw holes for fixing it. The other piece seems to be a lever. The two articles are tied together, so their (unidentified) purposes were probably associated.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/81
type:
piece of steel
Piece of flat steel

Piece of flat steel

1 Piece of flat steel rounded with socket on.

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.The “flat steel” is a thin spring, with screw holes for fixing it. The other piece seems to be a lever. The two articles are tied together, so their (unidentified) purposes were probably associated.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/82
type:
socket

Graver

1 Graver

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/83
type:
graver
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Chisel from James Watt's workshop

Chisel from James Watt's workshop

1 Chisel in wood handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal) and wood (unidentified)
Object Number:
1924-792/84
type:
chisel
Flat files

Flat files

7 Flat files

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
steel (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/85
type:
file
Handle

Handle

1 Handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/86
type:
handle
Two screws from James Watt's workshop

Two screws from James Watt's workshop

2 Screws

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
metal (ferrous)
Object Number:
1924-792/87
type:
screws
A purfling tool from James Watt's workshop

A purfling tool from James Watt's workshop

1 Piece of steel, 4” x ¼” dia.

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Purfling is the band of inlay conventionally set into the plates of violins and similar instruments, running round at a fixed distance from the edge. This tool is designed to help the luthier in preparing the channel into which it is glued. At one end it carries two cutting spurs that sever the wood fibres are each side of the channel; at the other it carries a projecting blade of the intended width and depth of the channel for clearing the cut wood out. At each end, behind the parts described, a shoulder is formed to act as a fence. This is run against the edge of the plate to ensure that the channel remains equidistant from the edge.

Object Number:
1924-792/89
type:
piece of steel
Washers and pieces of brass and steel from James Watt's workshop

Washers and pieces of brass and steel from James Watt's workshop

21 Washers, pieces of brass, steel, etc. wrapped in paper

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

A large flat piece of copper from James Watt's workshop

A large flat piece of copper from James Watt's workshop

1 Large flat piece of copper

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This appears to be an engraving plate, measuring about 11½ by 7½ inches.

Materials:
copper (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/91
type:
piece of copper
Strip of copper from James Watt's workshop

Strip of copper from James Watt's workshop

1 Strip of copper, folded

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This may be an improvised pair of tweezers.

Materials:
copper (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/92
type:
strip of copper
PIeces of zinc from James Watt's workshop

PIeces of zinc from James Watt's workshop

6 Pieces of zinc

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
zinc (metal)
Object Number:
1924-792/93
type:
pieces of zinc
Pattern for forged metalwork from James Watt's workshop

Pattern for forged metalwork from James Watt's workshop

1 Long piece of shaped wood

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This might well have been a pattern for the shaping of some piece of forged work.

Object Number:
1924-792/95
type:
piece of wood
Scale on tin, partly divided and slit up centre Scale on tin, partly divided and slit up centre from James Watt's workshop

Scale on tin, partly divided and slit up centre Scale on tin, partly divided and slit up centre from James Watt's workshop

1 Scale on tin, partly divided and slit up centre

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/96
type:
tin

Piece of coil spring from James Watt's workshop

1 Piece of coil spring

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/97
type:
spring
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Packet “bits of tin” from James Watt's workshop

Packet “bits of tin” from James Watt's workshop

1 Packet “bits of tin”

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/99
type:
packet of tin
25 Lumps of tin, in packet from James Watt's workshop

25 Lumps of tin, in packet from James Watt's workshop

25 Lumps of tin, in packet

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/100
type:
lumps of tin
4 Pieces of tin

4 Pieces of tin

4 Pieces of tin

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/101
type:
piece of tin
2 Pieces of cast lead with reverse portrait of “G. B. Rodney”2 Pieces of cast lead with reverse portrait of “G. B. Rodney” from James Watt's workshop

2 Pieces of cast lead with reverse portrait of “G. B. Rodney”2 Pieces of cast lead with reverse portrait of “G. B. Rodney” from James Watt's workshop

2 Pieces of cast lead with reverse portrait of “G. B. Rodney”

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/102
type:
piece of lead
1 Piece of rough lead

1 Piece of rough lead

1 Piece of rough lead

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/103
type:
piece of lead
Screw driver in spring mahogany handle, from James Watt's workshop

Screw driver in spring mahogany handle, from James Watt's workshop

1 Screw driver in spring mahogany handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Materials:
mahogany (wood)
Object Number:
1924-792/105
type:
screwdriver
Piece of lead piping

Piece of lead piping

1 Piece of lead piping

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/106
type:
pipe
Tin lid, hole in top, from James Watt's workshop

Tin lid, hole in top, from James Watt's workshop

1 Tin lid, hole in top

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/108
type:
lid
Ball in iron frame with mahogany handle, from James Watt's workshop

Ball in iron frame with mahogany handle, from James Watt's workshop

1 Ball in iron frame with mahogany handle

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is one of a set of balls made of lignum vitae, running in wishbone-shaped frames of iron. These, and the two articles brought together in the previous entry, are furniture castors which have been removed from the swivel plate that would ordinarily have been fixed to the leg of the furniture and mounted instead in handles. Thus they form tools rather like a paperhanger’s roller. They were intended for use in the copying process developed by James Watt, where a press could not be used, as, for instance, when the document was too large; such a roller would have been serviceable in going over the lines of a drawing to obtain a good impression.

Materials:
mahogany (wood) and iron
Object Number:
1924-792/111
type:
tool
Ball in iron frame with short round handle, from James Watt's workshop

Ball in iron frame with short round handle, from James Watt's workshop

1 ball in iron frame with short round handle (?paper rollers)

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This is one of a set of balls made of lignum vitae, running in wishbone-shaped frames of iron. These, and the two articles brought together in the previous entry, are furniture castors which have been removed from the swivel plate that would ordinarily have been fixed to the leg of the furniture and mounted instead in handles. Thus they form tools rather like a paperhanger’s roller. They were intended for use in the copying process developed by James Watt, where a press could not be used, as, for instance, when the document was too large; such a roller would have been serviceable in going over the lines of a drawing to obtain a good impression.

Object Number:
1924-792/112
type:
roller
Copper cylinder, piece of tube at top, one piece of tube on each side, one piece with brass tap at bottom, from James Watt's workshop

Copper cylinder, piece of tube at top, one piece of tube on each side, one piece with brass tap at bottom, from James Watt's workshop

1 Copper cylinder, piece of tube at top, one piece of tube on each side, one piece with brass tap at bottom

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

This apparatus is of unidentified purpose, but is perhaps connected with experiments by Watt on steam.

Object Number:
1924-792/113
type:
cyllinder
Piece of cast lead, small, from James Watt's workshop

Piece of cast lead, small, from James Watt's workshop

1 Piece of cast lead, small

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

See other items sharing a drawer with this object, concerned with medal impressions.

Object Number:
1924-792/114
type:
piece of lead
Piece of bent wire, hooked ends

Piece of bent wire, hooked ends

1 Piece of bent wire, hooked ends

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/115
type:
wire

Piece of pewter plate, engraved at back, with piece of brass rivetted on

1 Piece of pewter plate, engraved at back, with piece of brass rivetted on

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research.

Object Number:
1924-792/116
type:
plate
Image ©
The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum
Strip of copper folded

Strip of copper folded

1 Strip of copper folded

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This item is part of the contents of the workshop that Scottish engineer James Watt developed at his home, Heathfield, at Handsworth, Birmingham. Although Watt is best known for his work on the steam engine, his workshop contains a wide variety of objects from many different projects, from chemistry to sculpture-copying.

The description of the item was written by Edward Collins, the land agent responsible for Heathfield when the workshop was given to the Science Museum in 1924. Collins could not always identify what he was looking at, but always described what he saw clearly. This has allowed his descriptions to form the basis of subsequent research. This item is tentatively identified as a strip of silver solder.

Object Number:
1924-792/117
type:
strip of copper