Collinge Antiques

Description

Good example of the classic Fitzroy barometer c.1870. A mercury barometer with two adjustable markers accompanied by a thermometer stamped for Mottershed & Co. of Manchester. Presented behind glass in a mahogany case. The back of the case carries a paper liner printed in colour with various observations by Admiral Fitzroy on how a rise or fall in the mercury together with temperature can be used to predict the weather. In very good unrestored and working condition, retaining the original glass front.
Dimensions: width 7, depth 2″, height 35″.

Admiral Robert Fitzroy (1805-1865) was one of the most remarkable men of his generation. Made captain of The Beagle aged just 23, he was accompanied on his second voyage to survey the Southern reaches of the South American continent by Charles Darwin. Later in his career he became the founding head of what became the meteorological office, charged with collecting and collating information which would help forecast the weather – a crucial advance for a country so reliant on maritime trade. Following the wrecking of the Royal Charter off the coast of Anglesey in 1859, Fitzroy barometers complete with his observations were stationed at most ports and fishing harbours to be consulted by ship’s captains before setting out. In the 1860’s the telegraph system was used to bring Fitzroy news of the weather from across the country and the first daily forecasts began to be carried in The Times. These domestic versions became popular around the same time.

Please contact us for more images, delivery and shipping quotes. Alternatively you are welcome to view and collect at our large warehouse showroom in Llandudno Junction, North Wales (approximately 45mins from Chester). We have a large and ever changing selection of genuine good quality antique furniture of all types and have twice been shortlisted for the Home and Antiques Magazine Antique Shop of the Year Award. 01492 580022.