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WALKER, A. (Adam). System Of Familiar Philosophy: In Twelve Lectures; Being The Course Usually Read to Mr. Walker. Containing the Elements and the Practical Uses To Be Drawn From the Chemical Properties of Matter; The Principles and Application of Mechanics; Of Hydrostatics; Of Hydraulics; Of Pneumatics; Of Magnetism; Of Electricity; Of Optics; And Of Astronomy...
London: Printed for the Author..., 1802. In two volumes. Second edition, enlarged. (first published in one volume in 1799). 4to., full contemporary calf, leather spine labels, xvi, (1)-354; iv, (1), 251, (25)pp. index. With 49 folding plates. This copy has been professionally rebacked with new spines after the period, a bit of wear to the corners, some slight foxing to some plates but in fact a better than very good copy.
Adam Walker [1731-1821] British author and inventor. Taken from school "almost before he could read," Walker was largely self-educated. His dedication to learning earned him a reputation as a diligent student and as a result he was made an Usher at the Ledsham School and was later appointed writing master at Macclesfield. Encouraged by the success of his lectures, Walker began to tour, lecturing on natural philosophy in all the major cities. In 1778 he met Joseph Priestly who induced him to lecture at the Haymarket. As a result he was engaged as a lecturer at Eton College and several other public schools. He occupied his leisure time by perfecting various mechanical inventions including; an engine for raising water; steam carriages; rotary lights for the Scilly Isles (which were installed in 1790); a method of thermo-ventilation lines to heat homes without means of a kitchen fire, etc. Walker published several works; the above was first published in 1799. "System of Familiar Philosophy" covers a wide range of topics; illustrating Watt's new patent steam engine along with a steam engine of his own invention; and an early fire extinguisher.