LANCSGEN-L Archives

Archiver > LANCSGEN > 2000-06 > 0962313386


From: "Frank D Croft" <>
Subject: Re: [LAN] Boiler Fireman
Date: Thu, 29 Jun 2000 22:16:26 +0100
References: <007a01bfe1a1$821a2900$7a07883e@jc>


When the realisation that steam could be used to power all kinds of
machinery, many factories and mills were converted from natural water power
(i.e the water wheel) to the more efficient steam engine.

To produce steam, a pressure vessel, (boiler), water, and heat were
required. The heat was produced by burning wood or coal underneath the
boiler. When the water boiled the steam produced was kept under pressure and
piped to a steam engine, which in turn motivated the machinery within the
mill or factory. The job of keeping the fire going and the steam pressure at
a safe level was undertaken by a boilerman or fireman.

The job was initially a very skillful one where a delicate balance was
required to keep the correct fire and pressure at all times in order to
avert an explosion. In later years boilers were made to a much higher safety
standard, and with the advent of oil burners the job became much easier.

Steam power was put to many uses, train engines,ships, tractors, trucks,
even cars, were driven by the same method. All required a fireman or
boilerman to keep them running smoothly.

In general a rail engine would have a fireman and driver. A mill or factory
would employ a boilerman/fireman. Ships would have boilermen and firemen. A
steam driven road roller or tractor would have a driver who was capable of
firing the boiler to keep the steam up as well as drive.

Rgds Frank D Croft

Researching;
BOLTON (London, Essex)
BOND (Manchester)
COX (Saddleworth, Wool, Dorset)
CROFT (Denby,Wortley, Sheffield)
DOD(G)SON (Scissett, Denby Dale)
DUNSMORE (Harby, Leics)
JACKSON (Manchester)
JONES (Warwickshire)
KELLAWAY (Wool, Dorset)
KIRBY (Saddleworth, Manchester, Middleton on the Wolds)
MELLOR (Denby Dale, Cumberworth)
NORRIS (Manchester)
ROYLE (Oldham, Ashton, Manchester)
SINGLETON (Slaithwaite, Leeds, Golborne)
SKILLER (E.Lulworth, Dorset)
WARREN (Linthwaite,N.Ferriby,Eton&Windsor, Bucks)
WITTY (Middleton on the Wolds)

This thread: