Description:Reverse general section of small engine for the Birmingham Canal Co.
In the late 1780s, Boulton & Watt began to make small engines, of 3 horses power and under. They were encouraged in this by John Rennie, who perceived a growing market for such engines. The Birmingham Canal Co. bought two 3 horse engines in 1788—1789. These were mounted in barges and used to power chain pumps for draining the canal during the construction of the summit locks. Once the construction was over, the engines were sold, one going to the Dublin Canal Co. and the other to a Mr Dumeresque.
This drawing is part of the Archives of Soho collection, which is held by Birmingham City Archives [Ref. MS3147/Portfolio/5/1279a]