Description:General view and plan of 16 horse 'Sun & Planet' engine for McConnel & Kennedy, Manchester, October 1797.
Boulton & Watt sold large numbers of engines to the cotton manufacturers of the North West and Yorkshire in the 1790s. McConnel & Kennedy were one of the most important cotton firms in Manchester. By the early 19th century they were the city’s largest cotton firm, and their mills dominated the district of Ancoats. They bought several engines from Boulton & Watt. This, their first, had its power increased to 20 horses only five years after it had been installed such was the demand for power for more looms.
This drawing is part of the Archives of Soho, held at Birmingham City Archives [Ref. MS3147/Portfolio/5/151]