The following extracts are taken from the following four sources:
They extracts cover the following area:
Also included are other items known to have been kept in the fireproof record rooms in addition to the manuscripts – in particular the copies of the Parliamentary Standards of mass and length.
The Reports of the Astronomer Royal to the Board of Visitors were presented at the annual visitation, which normally took place in the first week of June. The first was produced in 1836. The report for the following year established a format that remained much the same until 1963, (the year before the Board was abolished). The Reports written by Airy are written in the first person. Those that came later (after 1880) were not.
From 1837 onwards the reports were grouped into sections dealing with different topics. The sections covering manuscripts, the library, and the fireproof record rooms were as follows.
Whilst every effort has been made to check the transcription for errors, the text is not guaranteed to be error free. Nor is it guaranteed free of omissions. Most of the reports as published can be accessed via the link below:
Reports of the Astronomer Royal to the Board of Visitors
During the Second World War, a confidential addendum was tabled to each report containing information (relating mainly to chronometers, the Nautical Almanac Office and magnetic and meteorological data) that might have been useful to the enemy. They were never published. Copies for the years 1940–42 are held at the National Archives in ADM190/19 , ADM190/20 and ADM190/21 respectively. They do not contain material that is relevant here.
The library was found upon examination to be in many respects defective. At my application the sum of one hundred pounds was placed at my disposal, for its improvement, by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty. Small progress has been made in this and other transactions at the Royal Observatory, for reasons to which I shall shortly allude.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The whole of the manuscripts of observations, calculations, &c., which were dispersed in various parts of the premises, have been collected, and I propose as soon as possible to arrange them in a form in which reference will not be difficult. No step however has yet been taken for this purpose.
Section 4. Library. The library, as I found it, contained the germs of a most valuable astronomical and mathematical collection. Almost every set however of works continued in series was imperfect: and much was wanting in the modern works of Continental Astronomy. At my application, sums exceeding £200 have been placed at my disposal by the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty for the completion of the library. Much has already been done; and before long I trust that our library will be made, without any great expense, a most valuable and practically useful collection. It was, when I received it, in very great confusion: considerable progress is now making in its arrangement. I attach great importance to this part of our institution, for the following' reason:- The natural tendency, in an office so much pressed with routine-work, and with official business having no very close relation to science, is, to be degraded into a mere bureau of clerks: and it is difficult even for the director to resist the contagion. The only antidote is, to place in the power of all, the means of acquaintance with the literature and the foreign systems of astronomy: to make the principal persons at least familiar with the speculations of ancient and the theories of modern times. It is only thus that the character of astronomer can be made to predominate over that of mere observer, or mere calculator. I trust that I shall be supported by the approbation of the Board of Visitors in regard to a point which affects in no trivial degree the education, not only of myself and my assistants, but of my successors also and their assistants: and which thus influences in a decided manner the future character of the institution.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings.
With regard to the buildings in general I have no particular remark to make. But I wish to suggest for the consideration of the Board, whether it might not be desirable to fit up the room known by the name of the Second Quadrant Room, as a Muniment Room, for the preservation of the manuscripts and other valuable articles, which are or may be lodged in the Observatory. I am induced to offer this suggestion, first, because the old part of the house (including the Octagon Room) appears to me peculiarly exposed to destruction by fire; secondly, because it is not unlikely that, in the event of new standards of length and weight, adapted to the most accurate purposes, being constructed by the Government to replace those lost at the conflagration of the Houses of Parliament, it may be thought desirable to lodge them at the Royal Observatory. The expense of altering the room for the purpose mentioned would be very small.
Section 3. Manuscripts. I had arranged several of the manuscript books for binding or separation into different parts, but the absence of a workman who was engaged for the purpose has delayed it for two or three months. I shall however be able, I hope, in a very short time to effect this object.
Section 4. Library. The Board of Admiralty having continued their liberality in the supply of funds for the maintenance of the library, I have been able to make considerable additions, principally in the way of completing what was imperfect. Several valuable presents have been received, among which I may specify two made by one of the members of the Board of Visitors, Mr. Baily. These are, the edition of Flamsteed's Historia Coelestis, published by Halley, and a set of engraved views of the Observatory apparently made by Flamsteed. As works of general astronomical literature these are extremely valuable, but more particularly so when considered in reference to the archaeology of the Observatory. With a view of handing down from the present time what may in future be considered as valuable representations of the Observatory, I have been desirous of contributing drawings of its present state: and I have the pleasure of calling the attention of the Board to two drawings made by a person in my family. These I propose to add to the same collection; and a series of interesting pictures will in time, I hope, be gradually formed.
I may mention that the library has been arranged, and a catalogue raisonnée has been made; and I would beg to suggest for the consideration of the Board, whether it would not be desirable that it should be printed, as on former occasions.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. At the last meeting of the Board, I suggested the advantage of inclosing and fitting up the room, known by the name of the Second Quadrant Room (being the western portion of the room known in Bradley's and Maskelyne's time as the Quadrant Room), in such a manner as to render it a safe room for the deposit of manuscripts, and other valuable articles. The suggestion having been approved by this Board, and having been laid before the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, was by them immediately referred to their Civil Architect for plans and estimates. The Lords of the Admiralty having in the last summer personally inspected the Observatory, and having been struck with the inconvenience arising from the want of an inclosed communication between the Observatory and the Dwelling-house of the Astronomer Royal, were pleased to suggest that a covered passage should be constructed at the same time as the inclosing of the Muniment Room. The financial arrangements of the Government prevented any steps from being taken until the Estimates for the present year should have been sanctioned by Parliament. Since that time, the plans and specifications for the various parts of the work have been placed in the hands of the builders; and I have every reason to think that the work will be proceeded with in a very short time.
One side of the proposed room will be formed by the pier carrying (on that, side) Graham's Quadrant and the Fixed Telescope erected for the observations of α Cygni. I have thought it desirable to remove the Fixed Telescope, but to retain the venerable Quadrant in its place, and even to put it in such order that, if any future astronomical antiquary should desire, observations may be made with it. The room is to be covered with arches of brick-work: but by leaving vacant a part at the end of one of these arches, and by covering it with a flat stone, which can be removed with little trouble, the command of the northern opening will be given to the Quadrant Telescope. The iron-work of the Quadrant had formerly been painted: but it had, from neglect, suffered materially from rust. I have caused it to be cleaned and painted, under the personal inspection of Mr. Simms: and the limb and verniers, with other small parts, were carefully cleaned at the same time. I may remark that the object-glass appears to be achromatic: I know not whether there appears in the publications of the Observatory any memorandum of the time when this object-glass was inserted.
Section 2. Moveable Property. I have before expressed my intention of causing the whole of the moveable property of this institution to be carefully marked and accurately catalogued. I have not yet found the leisure necessary for that purpose: but I propose to take this work in hand as soon as the arrangement of manuscripts shall be completed.
Section 3. Manuscripts. In my last Report to the Board; I intimated that it was necessary, before commencing any arrangement of the manuscripts, to divide many of the books into two or more parts each. This was rendered necessary by a practice sometimes followed in Mr. Pond's time, of taking books which had been only partially filled by Dr. Maskelyne, and inserting in the blank leaves calculations of a different date, and (sometimes) on very different subjects. The separation of these parts having been nearly completed, I have been able to proceed with the first step towards arrangement, namely, the marking on the outside of each book the whole of the contents of its interior. From the confused state of some of Dr. Maskelyne's books, this has, sometimes, been a task of much trouble. I need not observe, that it was quite necessary for me to undertake myself the whole of this work: and this is the principal cause of the delay that has occurred. I am, however, extremely glad that I have thus been compelled to become acquainted with the system and general practice of my predecessors: and my estimation of their judgment and order, as well as of their industry, has been greatly raised. During the whole, or nearly the whole of Dr. Maskelyne's time, the daily observations of stars are reduced in Ledger, and the solstices and equinoxes of each year are discussed, with as great regularity as at the present time: and the same is done with equal regularity, and on a more extended scale, through Mr. Pond's time. The observations of the Sun and Planets, but more particularly those of the Moon, are, through a great part of Dr. Maskelyne's time, most laboriously compared with the existing tables, and special investigations are founded on them for the improvement of particular points of the tables. The computations last mentioned probably belonged rather to the Board of Longitude than to the Royal Observatory. The impression which the perusal of these papers has left on my mind is, that from these the true state of the heavens-as regards the main points of the Sun's path, the Moon's path, and the places of the fundamental stars-may be gathered more accurately and more certainly than from any system of interpolation like that pursued by the illustrious author of the Tabulæ Regiomontanæ. I cannot but regret, that the intermediate steps between the unreduced observations and the final catalogues were not made public: and I am more than ever persuaded of the importance of that course which I have followed since the Cambridge Observatory was first placed under my direction, of publishing the reduced result of every individual observation, with as many of the intermediate steps as are necessary to enable anyone with facility to recompute the whole.
Section 4. Library. No addition particularly worthy of notice has been made to the library: although, by the gradual supply of the principal astronomical works of real value, it is (I hope) kept up to the present state of the science.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. In the Report read to the Board at the last Visitation, I stated that steps were in progress for the construction of a fire-proof room in one side of the old Quadrant-Room (as recommended by the Board at the meeting preceding the last), and for the formation of a covered passage from the dwelling-house of the Astronomer Royal to the Observatory. These works were completed in the last summer. A set of iron shelves has been mounted in the fire-proof room, for the support of manuscript books, &c.: it was found necessary in the last winter to conduct a stove-pipe through the room, as the only way of keeping the books, &c. dry in the alternations of temperature at that season; but it is conceived that this is (lone without danger to the contents: of the room. The passage is found to be not only of great convenience but also of very great utility. Indeed, it is impossible to estimate how much more frequent will be the visits of the head of any establishment to every part of the offices subject to him, when, instead of encountering the inclemencies of weather in order to reach the nearest of them, he is able to pass through very nearly the whole without involuntary exposure.
Section 2. Moveable Property. I may, however, call the attention of the Board to the circumstance, that I have made a comprehensive catalogue of the whole of the moveable property belonging to the Observatory, including, and thus tending to secure, a great number of valuable articles not included in the former catalogues.
Section 3. Manuscripts. With regard to the manuscripts, I have only to communicate that all have been removed to the Safe Room; and, having been marked (as I stated in my last Report), they have been placed in the first degree of rough arrangement. No other step has yet been taken to the formation of a catalogue.
In connexion with this subject I may remark, that it seems desirable that our shelves of manuscripts should contain copies of documents of every kind bearing upon the history of the Observatory. In this regard, as well as for my own guidance and for the information of my successors, it appears advisable that a copy of the Minutes of the Meetings of this Board should be found at the Observatory; and I would, therefore, respectfully submit, whether the Board may be pleased to take into consideration my request, that a copy of these Minutes be deposited here.
Section 4. Library. With regard to the Library, I have nothing to communicate, except that additions are occasionally made, tending to keep it up to the present state of astronomical science. The catalogue, to which I alluded in my Report of 1838, is also kept up.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. Some additional shelves have been fitted in the Library, and some of the old ones have been altered, for the reception of additional books.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The whole of the Manuscripts which I found in the Observatory have been arranged, marked, and catalogued; and I have the pleasure now of laying before the Board a copy of the catalogue, to be deposited, if they shall think fit, among the papers of the Board. A few only of the books of the calculations made during my own superintendence of the Observatory are not yet duly entered.
Having ascertained that the Manuscripts of the late Board of Longitude were separated, some being in the custody of the Admiralty, and the others in that of the Royal Society, I had the honour of representing to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty and the President of the Royal Society respectively, the great inconvenience of this separation, and of suggesting that it would be advantageous that the whole should be lodged at the Royal Observatory. In consequence of these applications, the whole of the Board of Longitude papers have been transferred hither; and Mr. Main, my first assistant, is now engaged, at leisure times, in taking a list of them, in preparation for a complete arrangement of the whole.
Section 4. Library. No remarkable addition has been made to the books in our Library,
although I have lost no opportunity of adding such as appeared necessary to keep up the series of works of which the first parts were already in the Library, and such as should be found in a collection whose character ought to be emphatically astronomical. .
I ought not, however, to omit to state that, within a short time, the Royal Society of Edinburgh have presented the Observatory with a complete set of their valuable Transactions. For this we are indebted, I believe, in the first instance, to the intercession of Professor Henderson.
Section I. Grounds and Buildings. Everything remains in the same condition as at the last Visitation of the Observatory, with only the following alterations: - The vastly-increased business of the Observatory (including the Planetary and Lunar Reductions, and the: Magnetic and Meteorological Establishment) making it very desirable that a convenient place for office-work, in easy communication with the assistants generally, and, at the same time, in the immediate neighbourhood of the books and papers most frequently referred to, should be provided for myself: I represented to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty the advantage of enlarging the Computing-room, according to a plan which I presented. Their Lordships, although no sum had been provided upon the annual estimates, were pleased to accede to my urgent representation, and the work was immediately dispatched. This transaction occurred in the course of last summer. The Great advantage gained will be obvious to the Visitors, who have seen the Computing-room in its present state, and who remember it in its former confined dimensions, when I was compelled to place in my own dwelling apartments all the books and papers which were not actually in use, and were not so old as to be stored away in the Safe-room; and when much time was lost by reference from one room to another.
Section 3. Manuscripts. In the last report I stated to the Board, that the whole of the manuscript papers (as far as is known) of the late Board of Longitude, had been collected at the Royal Observatory, and that Mr. Main, my first assistant, was engaged occasionally in arranging them. The severe pressure of business during the last year has prevented the completion of this arrangement, although the first sorting out and cataloguing is very nearly finished. I am happy to state, that in bringing together the two great parcels. the whole of the Minutes of the Board of Longitude have been found; and these, as most precious documents relating to the scientific history of the country, I have at once placed in the Safe-room of the Observatory.
Section 4. Library. I have no new remark to make respecting the Library. It is maintained generally as an Astronomical and Physical Library, and the books are found extremely useful to the assistants.
Section 3. Manuscripts. In former Reports I have alluded to the manuscripts of the Board of Longitude. No progress has been made in the arrangement of them since the date of the last Report.
Many of our manuscripts, which were in the state of loose papers or of thin copy-books, have been found to admit of being bound in firm binding: a process which contributes greatly both to the orderly arrangement and to the security of the papers. They have accordingly been bound, in all the instances in which it appeared practicable. All are marked with class-marks, and the names and references of all are entered in a manuscript catalogue: and great attention is given to the keeping up of this catalogue on the occasion of lodging fresh books or papers in the Safe-room. I think it proper to state to the Board, that I have paid great attention to the preservation and arrangement of all the papers relating to the Observatory which have passed before me during my own presidency in this establishment; and that originals or copies of the documents of every kind, and of correspondence with all parties, will be found in, a state, it is hoped, of easy reference. As opportunity serves, these are bound: those volumes which contain papers of a confidential nature are not allowed to leave the premises, but are bound by persons who come to the Observatory for that purpose. The books of observations and calculations are repaired, if necessary, before they are stowed away with the other manuscripts.
Once in each year, the manuscripts are examined with their catalogue.
I had hoped before this time to have made an addition to our manuscripts, which, though not of original papers, would nevertheless have been one of importance. In spite of the care with which the Oxford edition of Bradley's and Bliss's Observations was prepared, I have had reason to think that in several instances valuable elucidation would have been obtained if we had been able at once to consult the originals. This power would be secured, with a degree of assurance next only to absolute certainty, by reference to a transcript made with great care by persons who are generally well acquainted with the subjects of the manuscripts. The circumstance, that there are at this time several persons in daily employment at the Royal Observatory who are well acquainted with Bradley's and Bliss's Observations, appeared to me unusually favourable for obtaining such a transcript with accuracy and at small expense, provided the originals could be intrusted to me. I therefore stated my views to Dr. Wynter, President of St. John's College, Oxford, and now Vice-Chancellor of the University, and requested him to lay my application before the Delegates of the Clarendon Press, in which body it is understood that the property in Bradley's and Bliss's manuscripts is vested. My application was received with the utmost courtesy by Dr. Wynter and the Delegates; and their full assent was given to it, with no other reservation than the cautions for the security of the manuscripts which I had myself indicated as probably desirable. My best thanks are due to Dr. Wynter, to Dr. Bandinel (Principal Librarian of the Bodleian Library), and to Dr. Bliss (Registrar of the University), for the liberality with which they have received and responded to my application. An agent has been sent by me to Oxford to examine the manuscripts, and the work of copying would have been commenced by this time, but for an accident in the preparation of the paper.
Section 4. Library. No remarkable addition has been made to the library since the last meeting of the Visitors, although the usual attention has been given to maintaining it in a respectable state as regards physical science in general and Astronomy in particular. I may however state, that both the progress of the science and the devotion of so large a portion of our establishment to it have required that attention should also be given to keeping the Magnetical division of the library in the most forward state possible.
Attention is given to the binding of the books and to their orderly arrangement, in order to make the library really useful. The arranged catalogue is kept up with care. Once in each year all the books are compared with the catalogue.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The system of binding, marking, and arranging our manuscripts has still been carefully kept up.
In my Report of last year, I stated that I had been in communication with the authorities of the University of Oxford, and that I had received their permission to bring hither, for the purpose of copying, the manuscripts of Bradley's observations. I am happy to state that this work has gone on, and has now arrived at a very advanced stage. The whole of the Transits are copied, and considerable progress is made with the Quadrant Observations. The manuscripts are copied, page for page, line for line, letter for letter, and erasure for erasure. These volumes commence with Bradley's earliest observations at Greenwich in 1743, several years earlier than the first of those printed in the folio edition of his Observations.
Section 4. Library. On the library I have only to remark, as in the last years, that attention is given to the procuring of books applying to physical and mathematical science generally, especially to astronomy, magnetism, and meteorology; to the binding and arrangement of the books; and, generally, to the rendering the library truly efficient and useful.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. In the last winter I received authority from the Board of Admiralty to prepare a proper map of the Observatory and grounds, with a notice that their Lordships would provide for its being engraved. The measures of all kinds have been made, and most of them have been laid down, but the ill health of the person employed as draughtsman has delayed the completion.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The manuscripts of Bradley's Observations, to which allusion has been made in the two last Annual Reports, are now completely copied, excepting only some rough computations upon loose papers of which it is not possible now to discover the meaning. These manuscripts would have been returned some time ago to the authorities of the University of Oxford from whom they were borrowed, but for the ill health of the person who has usually been employed as my accredited messenger on this business.
I have lately revised with much care, and have prepared for binding, a large collection of papers which have accumulated since the commencement of my own residence. It is, however, scarcely possible to pronounce that anyone set is ready until I have gone through the whole of the papers of every department; and this consideration, in addition to the circumstance that it is necessary for me to examine every paper myself, has delayed the employment of the binder.
The manuscripts of the Board of Longitude have been put in order by Mr. Main; and I propose, when opportunity offers, to take measures for binding them also.
Section 4. Library. The usual attention has been given to maintaining the Library in an efficient state, in reference particularly to the subjects of Astronomy and Magnetism. The principal purchases, however, made in the last year, have been from the libraries of my lamented friends Mr. Baily and Professor Henderson, The books are classified and catalogued, and great attention is given to the keeping of them in order.
[A copy of the Catalogue of the valuable astronomical, mathematical and general library of the late Francis Baily ... : together with the remaining copies of his works on various subjects, as also his valuable collection of astronomical, mathematical and philosophical instruments : which will be sold by auction by Messrs S. Leigh Sotheby & Co. ... on Thursday, April 24th, 1845 and four following days, is held at the Universtiy of London Senate House Library. The auction consisted of 1044 + 51 lots. (Click here for details). The library also holds a copy of the Catalogue of the extensive and valuable scientific and general library of the late Thomas Henderson ... : which will be sold by auction by Messrs C.B. Tait & Co. ... on Monday, January 13, 1845 and two following days ... (Click here for details).]
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The want of additional shelves becoming pressing, a considerable extent of slate shelves has been erected in the Safe Room, and of wooden shelves in the rooms under the New South Dome and in the Magnetic Building.
The Map of the Grounds and Buildings, to which allusion has formerly been made, having been long delayed by the illness and ultimate death of Mr. R. Harris, has been taken up by Mr. James Breen (one of the Computers usually employed on the Lunar Reductions), and is now nearly ready for engraving.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The manuscripts of Bradley's Observations, to which allusion has been made in the two last Reports, have now been returned to the University of Oxford, having been completely and accurately copied, with the exception of some papers of mere scribbling which could not be interpreted: and we have now a complete copy of every trustworthy observation made at the Royal Observatory since its foundation. I am confident that the Visitors will estimate, at the same value at which I do myself, the courtesy and the readiness to meet my views which have throughout been displayed by Dr. Wynter, Vice-Chancellor of the University, when the first application was made by me; by Dr. Bliss, Registrar of the University; and by Dr. Bandinel, Principal Librarian of the Bodleian Library, in whose custody the manuscripts were kept.
The manuscripts relating to the current operations of the Observatory, and also to the various business of different classes which are incidental to my own position, or on which the Government have a reasonable claim to my attention, accumulate now very rapidly. I consider it, therefore, an important matter to arrange for the temporary preservation of these papers in security and order by a peculiar method of stitching them together, and for their permanent preservation by binding, A large number of papers, forming about 40 volumes, have lately been bound.
No further step has been taken for the arrangement of the papers of the Board of Longitude.
Section 4. Library. I have no remark of importance to make in relation to the Library. In keeping it up, attention has been given to the subjects of Astronomy, Magnetism, and Meteorology; but the number of books added in the last year is small.
The usual care is given to the classifying and cataloguing the books. The Library is accessible, under simple regulations, to all the Assistants; and is producing a marked effect upon their education.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The Map of the Grounds and Buildings is now completed, exhibiting the state of the Observatory in December, 1846. A small map (reduced from the larger one) has been lithographed, and will be published in the Observations for 1845.
Section 2. Moveable Property. I have the gratification of announcing to the Visitors that a very valuable present has been made to the Observatory. In the summer of last year it was notified to me by the Rev. Charles Turnor (in the first instance through Captain Smyth, R. N.), that he was desirous of presenting to the Royal Observatory an excellent clock, made by Mudge and Dutton. No present could be more acceptable to me, more especially at a time when I was contemplating the speedy mounting of a new instrument. I lost no time in stating this to Mr. Turnor ; and the clock was very soon brought to the Observatory, and there mounted, without any expense to the Observatory. It appears to be going extremely well. I am confident that the Visitors will with me appreciate not only the value of the present, but also the manner in which it was made.
Section 3. Manuscripts. I have no special remark to make under this head. Care is taken for the preservation and arrangement of original correspondence and original observations and computations of all kinds.
Attention is given, when opportunity offers, to the arrangement of Mr. Pond's papers; and the manuscripts of the Board of Longitude are still kept in sight.
Section 4. Library. The number of books added to the Library in the last year is not great; the usual attention, however, has been given to the subjects of Astronomy, Magnetism, and Meteorology. The books are classed and catalogued with the same regularity as in former years.
Section 2. Moveable Property. It may be proper to state here that the following standards, not strictly belonging to the Observatory, are at present preserved in the Observatory:-
Ramsden's 20-feet Standard-Bar.
General Roy's S-feet Standard-Bar.
One of the Cape l0-feet Standard-Bars.
The Royal Society's 3-feet Standard-Bar.
The Royal Astronomical Society's 5-feet Standard-Tube.
Section 3. Manuscripts. All the letters of Mr. Pond's time, and all the papers which had accumulated during the last year, have been arranged. The actual binding has been delayed in consequence of the illness of the person usually employed.
Section 4. Library. A few books have been added, principally relating to Astronomy and Magnetism. The routine of classifying the books, lending them to the Assistants, calling them in at times, and verifying the Catalogue, has been followed as usual.
Section 2. Moveable Property. At the present time there are in our hands the following instruments not strictly belonging to the Observatory :- Ramsden's 20-feet Standard; Roy's 3-feet Standard; the Cape l0-feet Standard; the Royal Society's 3-feet Standard; and the Royal Astronomical Society's 5-feet Standard.
Section 3. Manuscripts. As some papers of Mr. Pond's have been found in a state which required care for their orderly preservation, and as it had become necessary to dispose of a great number of papers on various subjects, economical and scientific, which have gradually accumulated since the year 1835, a great effort has been made to arrange them, and one hundred and forty-eight volumes are now ready for the binder, The former volumes actually in my custody, and catalogued as Manuscripts, are preserved in the Fireproof Room with the usual care.
Section 4. Library. No additions, of unusual importance, have been made to the library. The books are in general good order, and are under certain regulations placed at the service of the Assistants.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. Workmen are at this time employed in laying gas-pipes for the illumination of every part of the Observatory and of the dwelling-house.
Section 2. Moveable Property. I must not omit to call the attention of the Visitors to the admirable bust of Mr. Baily, which was presented to the Observatory by the Rev. R. Sheepshanks. Before another meeting of the Visitors, I hope to have it mounted on a proper pedestal.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The arrangement, binding, and preservation of manuscript books and papers of all kinds, whether relating to the observations made in the Observatory, to the secular business incident to the Observatory, or to the matters of general science which naturally come before me, have engaged much of my attention in the past year. Should no accident occur to destroy or to disperse this collection, I should hope that at some future time it may be found valuable, as bearing upon the history of almost every branch of physico-mathematical science pursued in this age.
At the present time the Manuscripts are in some confusion, as I am now engaged in a new classified arrangement.
Section 4. Library. The Library has been kept up by continual small additions, but no large addition has been made in the last year. The books are generally in good order.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. In previous communications to the Visitors I have pointed out the want of an Official Room for the Astronomer Royal, and the facility with which this could be supplied as soon as the Transit Instrument should be dismounted. This has now been done. At the beginning of the present year, as soon as the competency of the Transit-Circle for work was established, the Troughton's Transit was taken down, the piers were removed, the room was dismantled of all astronomical appurtenances, a doorway was pierced through the wall of the Computing Room (close to the south wall of the Transit Room, and opposite to an existing doorway leading into the Transit-Circle Room), and an east-and-west wall was built in the Transit Room, so near to its south wall as to leave only a passage equal in breadth to the doorways. This passage makes a communication between the Computing Room and the Transit-Circle Room; the remainder of the Transit Room forms the Astronomer Royal's Official Room. The doorways formerly existing give immediate access from it to the Computing Room on one side, and to the Transit-Circle Room on the other. The old observing -shutters were taken out and replaced by rough glass, and the room is now extremely well lighted.
It will be necessary soon to increase our Library accommodation; and I have begun to make preparations for this extension, by removing the Chronometers from the room which they have many years occupied (adjoining the Library) to a room above the Computing Room, formerly used as an Assistant's sleeping-room, but for many years past nearly useless. The Old Chronometer Room is at present used for a temporary purpose, but I intend before long to fit it up with Library Shelves, The New Chronometer Room is somewhat larger than the old one, and it is furnished with an apparatus for warming a limited number of chronometers by the heat of gas-flames, copied from that established in the Liverpool Observatory. Adjoining to the Chronometer Room is a small room now used as Office for the transaction of Chronometer Business.
The Manuscript Room is becoming exceedingly crowded. Workmen are at the present time employed in erecting shelves and cabinets on the east wall of the Astronomer Royal's Room, which it is intended to appropriate to some of the Manuscripts, especially those of a more confidential class.
Gas illumination has now been introduced in all the buildings and on all the instruments, as far as I think it desirable to employ it.
Section 2. Moveable Property. In addition to Standard Bars formerly mentioned, the 10-feet Standard Bar of the East India Company is for the present lodged here, as also some valuable standard Thermometers made by the Rev. R. Sheepshanks.
Section 3. Manuscripts. No addition has been made to our manuscripts from any external source. But the system of arranging and binding our own papers has been gradually reduced into a more complete form, and the number of MS. books stowed in the Safe Room has greatly increased. So much are the shelves overloaded, that it has been found impracticable lately to maintain good order in the room. The pressure will, however, be very greatly relieved when the new shelves in the Astronomer Royal's Room shall be fitted for the reception of books; and a better arrangement (commenced, as was stated in the last Report, about a year ago) may then be perfected.
Section 4. Library. No particular effort has been made for the increase of the Library. Books, however, are added from various sources, and the room is now scarcely large enough. But I trust to obtain sufficient accommodation (as I have already mentioned) in time to avoid any confusion from want of space.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. In the Grounds and Buildings of the Observatory, using these terms strictly, there has been very little change during the past year, and scarcely anything except what was pointed out in the last Report to the Visitors, as either then commenced or in contemplation. The Old Chronometer Room has been fitted up with shelves for increase of Library accommodation, and one extensive class of books (Transactions and Serial Works) has been removed to it. A room near it has been appropriated to Stationery Stores. By the effect of these and other alterations in the occupation of the Observatory buildings, there are no rooms of any kind now left available as sleeping chambers for the Assistants. The experience of many years, however, has shewn that such apartments are not wanted. The Shelves for Manuscripts in the Astronomer Royal's Official Room are completed, and a portion of the Manuscripts is transferred to them.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The Standard Thermometers, the property of Mr. Sheepshanks, have been returned to him.
I beg leave to call the attention of the Visitors to two presents which have been made to the Observatory. One of these is a painting by Miss Chevallier, presented by the Rev. Professor Chevallier, representing the aspect of the country near Göttenburg, during the Solar Eclipse of 1852, July 28, a short time before the termination of the totality. The other is a copper map of the vicinity of Greenwich, formed by a galvanotype deposit on the copperplate of the Ordnance Map, and presented by the Ordnance Map Office.
Section 3. Manuscripts, and 4. Library. l have no special remark to make upon these heads, except that, by the addition of space to which I have alluded, the order of arrangement is in both cases improved. Both the Manuscripts and the Printed Books have increased in number, but only by gradual accumulation, and without any extraordinary addition.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. Within the inclosure of the Observatory, nothing has been done requiring the least notice, excepting the commencement of a new set of Plans of the Buildings, &c. Our wants for space, however, continue to increase; and I think that it will be found necessary, very shortly, to construct a new Fire-proof Room for Manuscripts, &c. I propose to erect a building of two stories in continuation of the Eastern Buildings, and to give it a front with pediments similar to those of other parts of the same range.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Professor De Morgan has transmitted to me, for preservation in the Observatory, a considerable number of letters found in the collection of correspondence of the late Mr. Baily. These cannot fail to contain matter which ultimately will prove very valuable for elucidation of the scientific history of the age now past; and I trust that I am supported by the approval of the Visitors in accepting this deposit.
I have borrowed from the Royal Society a manuscript book which appears to be an official copy of the Minutes of the Board of Visitors from their institution in 1710 to 1784. I have not yet had leisure to examine it with care.
The Visitors will remember that, some years past, I was enabled by the kindness of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford and the Librarian of the Bodleian Library to form a copy, approaching as closely as possible in character to a fac-simile, of Bradley's Observations. Very lately, I had the pleasure of receiving a hasty visit from M. Le Verrier, who had been carefully studying the printed Observations with reference to some investigations on which he is at this time engaged, and who brought with him a long list of apparent errors or inconsistencies. The whole or nearly the whole of these were removed by examination of the Manuscript Copy in the Observatory.
Section 4. Library. No books of importance have been purchased in the last year. The Observatory is, however, deeply indebted to many of its friends for their presents to the Library. Among these, I am particularly bound to mention the Astronomische Nachrichten, the Comptes Rendus, the Observations of many Observatories, the Star Charts of Mr. Bishop, the collections of American books transmitted by the Smithsonian Society, the Transactions of many Societies, the Magnetical and Meteorological works edited by Colonel Sabine, and the Nautical Magazine by Captain Becher. With the aid of donations of these kinds, and with ordinary care in keeping our sets of books perfect, our Library becomes almost a standard one for those subjects which particularly belong to the Royal Observatory.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. I alluded in the last Report to the necessity for a new Fire-proof Room. The want of this became so evident that in the last autumn I submitted to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty a proposal for constructing one in the present year; and in consequence a sum of £550, applicable to that purpose, has been granted on the Navy Estimates. The plan has been arranged in concert with Lieut.-Colonel Greene, R. E., Civil Architect of the Admiralty; and its general features may be understood as follows:- The Eastern Buildings will be extended, preserving the same general breadth, to the boundary wall of the Observatory grounds. Access will be gained to the lower story by taking the breadth of a passage out of what is now the First Assistant's Room (the East Depôt being in future appropriated to the First Assistant), and to the upper story by an internal iron staircase. The stack of chimneys in the middle of the Library will be removed. Several preparations have been made for this work; but, at the present time, ground has not been actually broken.
Section 2. Moveable Property. No change of importance has been made; and I have no remark which calls for the attention of the Visitors, except that we are preparing a new Catalogue of the Instruments and Furniture of every kind.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The collection of Baily's Papers, to which I alluded in the last Report, has now been completed (or nearly so) by Professor De Morgan.
The manuscripts generally are in some disorder, from the mere want of space for arrangement. This, I trust, will be effectually remedied when more room is obtained in the proposed new building.
Section 4. Library. Very little addition has been made to the Library. A large mass of pamphlets, which had accumulated in the course of several years, have been bound. The arrangement of these has occupied much of the attention of the First Assistant.
Section 1.. Grounds and Buildings. The Fire-proof Room, to which I alluded in my last Report, has been completed in all essential parts, and in conformity with the plan which I then explained, except that I have not thought it necessary to remove the central stack of chimneys, but to accommodate new partitions to it, leaving it undisturbed. Two sets of slate shelves are erected. The ironwork, however, of the window shutters is not completed, and, in consequence, we have not yet been able to make full use of the room. These, I expect, will be finished very soon.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The arrangement and binding of our manuscripts especially of those which belonged to the Board of Longitude, will, I trust, be brought into better order when we are able to use our new Record Rooms. Up to the present time, however, nothing has been done.
The binding of the papers constantly accumulating is maintained in good order. A great many volumes have been bound in the present spring.
Section 4. Library. No special addition has been made in the past year. The current Observations and other works of technical Astronomy are regularly added.
Section 2. Moveable Property. There are now lodged in the Observatory; the Cape Altitude and Azimuth Instrument, the copies of American Standards of Weight and Measure belonging to the Treasury, the East India Standard of Length, the Cape Standard, Ramsden's Standard, Roy's Standard, and several of the copies of the New British Standard constructed by Mr. Sheepshanks; as well as some ancient Standard Pounds.
The visitors are aware that one of the four official sets of copies of the National Standards of Length and Weight is lodged in the Observatory. Some time before the last meeting of the Board, these standards had been placed in an oak box, so arranged that when the top and front of the box were removed, the standards were seen under cover of glass; and the box was planted upon two stone piers in the new Record Room. A short time since, upon examining into the state of the standards, I found that the free acid of the oak wood was acting prejudicially on them. Its operation appeared rather capricious: in some places (but not in all) it had acted powerfully upon the brass, especially that of the plugs in the division-wells, which was covered with a thick layer of sap-green colour; it had very slightly touched the bronze of the standard-bar; while the iron was untouched, and in many places shining brilliantly. I have now taken away the oak box, and have substituted a box of mahogany.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The usual care is taken of our Papers, and a few Volumes are at present in the binder's hands.
None of our Manuscripts are lent out; and no Manuscripts are borrowed by the Observatory, excepting a Volume containing the Minutes of the earlier meetings of the Board of Visitors, borrowed from the Royal Society.
Section 4. Library. No important addition has been made to the Library, except in the continuation of serial works. The books are in good order.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The foundations of the new South-eastern Dome have been laid, and I trust that the building will be completed in this summer. It is in the place which I indicated in the last Report, at the south-eastern comer of the Record Room, but not in contact with the Record Room. For explanation of the design generally, I beg leave to refer to the model which the Visitors have seen. I may here state that the local position of the building compelled me to make the entrances into the three separate stories through the middle of the North Pier. A large stove is provided for the lower story, the draft of which passes underground into the chimney of the Record Room; and I expect that this stove, by means of a trap in the first floor, will sufficiently warm and dry the second story.
The manuscript plans of the grounds and buildings are altered from time to time, as the changes of the buildings require.
Section 2. Moveable Property. No change of the least importance has been made since the last Visitation. There are now in deposit the Cape Altazimuth, the American Standards, the East India, Cape, Ramsden's, and Roy's Standards of Length; some ancient Pounds, and all the unappropriated copies of the new National Standards of Length and Weight.
The Official copy of the National Standard of Length, now preserved in a mahogany box, appears to be in good order.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Our papers are preserved, carefully arranged, and bound, as usual.
The arrangement of the Board of Longitude papers has at last been taken up seriously, under the immediate superintendence of Mr. Main.
None of our manuscripts are at present out of the Observatory.
One manuscript only is at present borrowed by the Observatory, namely, the Minutes of the Meetings of the Board of Visitors, from the establishment of the Board down to 1784, May 27, at present placed in my hands by favour of the Royal Society. It is much to be wished that the volume or volumes, containing the minutes' of subsequent meetings down to the year 1830, could be found. It would probably be judged best by all parties that the entire series should be lodged in the Royal Observatory.
Section 4. Library. No great effort has been made to increase the Library; a few books being purchased from time to time, and the serial works being kept up.
The Library Catalogue, from additions and insertions of books, binding of pamphlets, &c., had become confused and unsightly, and a new manuscript catalogue is therefore in preparation. It is nearly finished.
Section 2. Moveable Property. We have in charge the old Cape Altazimuth and sundry Standards …
The Official Copy of the Yard Standard appears to be in good condition. Our Catalogues of moveable property are amended from time to time.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Our Manuscripts are in good order. Continual attention is given to the collecting and binding of the papers which accumulate in the ordinary course of business, whether as produced by the internal work of the Observatory, or by the multifarious business (not always of astronomical character) from extraneous sources. A modification of the Manuscript Catalogue will soon be necessary.
The papers of the Board of Longitude are now finally stitched into books, in the arrangement in which we usually send our manuscripts to the book-binder. They will probably form one of the most curious collections of' the results of scientific enterprise, both normal and abnormal, which exists.
Section 4. Library. No great number of' books has been added to the Library, serial works being however kept up. The Catalogue to which allusion was made in the last Report, is in use.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The Standards are in good condition,
Section 3. Manuscripts. The orderly arrangement and binding of the Observatory Manuscripts has now become matter of routine, and is continued with great regularity.
By favour of the Royal Society, I have in my custody the Book of Minutes of the Board of Visitors from its establishment to the year 1784, but I have not been able to find the continuation from that time to 1830. I should be greatly obliged by any information which would probably enable me to trace out these Minutes.
The papers of the Board of Longitude have been thoroughly revised, and are now in the binders' hands.
Section 4. Library. General attention only has been given to the Library, the principal additions being the maintenance of serial works.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The copies of the National Standards of Length and Weight are in proper condition.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The whole of the Manuscripts of the Board of Longitude, to which I have several times alluded, are now bound, and the Indexes to nearly the whole are written out. Mingled with a great deal of worthless matter (though, in its most worthless state, always having a somewhat scientific character) these volumes contain invaluable materials for a history of science through the greater part of the last century, and it is to be wished that at some time they may be used for that purpose.
I take this opportunity again to remind the Board that the Minutes of the Visitors from 1784 to 1830 are missing. It seems not impossible that they may have come into the hands of some officer of the Royal Society at the time when a revision of the Visitation was contemplated. I should be very glad to receive any information on the possible place of this book.
The Manuscripts which arise in the daily conduct of the Observatory are regularly arranged and bound.
Section 4. Library. The Library has received little increase except from the maintenance of serial works, and from the presents of books of various kinds made principally by foreign institutions.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. The changes to be recorded, in the interior of our inclosure, are unusually small. I have lately found it necessary to erect some new slate shelves for Manuscripts on the west wall of the Upper Record Room, and some wooden shelves for stores of printed books are fixed in the Lover Record Room.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The copies of the National Standards of Length and Weight have not been disturbed. They are in good order.
Section 3. Manuscripts. I have to make a communication to the Visitors which, though not possessing the astronomical importance which it would have had many years ago, is still one of singular interest for the Observatory. The Visitors are aware that, at the decease of Dr. Bradley, his Executor, Mr. Peach, acting professedly in the interest of Miss Bradley (then a minor) carried off the whole of Dr. Bradley's Observations. The son of Mr. Peach subsequently married Miss Bradley, and retained the Observations: refusing to give them up, except on condition of receiving a handsome gratuity. Legal proceedings for their recovery were commenced by the Board of Longitude, and these appear to have been sufficiently onerous to the Messrs. Peach to make them desire to evade the consequences. In some manner and on some terms which I am unable to trace, they transferred the Observations to Lord North, then Chancellor of the University of Oxford; and Lord North in 1776 transferred them to the University, in some way which implied that they should be printed. But so negligent was the person (Dr. Hornsby) who had them in charge, that in 1792 no steps had been taken for printing them; and the Board of Longitude made a formal complaint of the delay. The first volume did not appear till 1798. I need not point out to the Visitors the calamitous effect of the iniquitous proceeding of Mr. Peach and the negligence of Dr. Hornsby, which, at the most critical epoch that we have known in the history of Astronomy, cut off all access to the only observations on which reliance could be placed, and ultimately retarded the progress of accurate astronomy by nearly forty years.
Some years ago, I was led to suspect that there were inaccuracies in Dr. Hornsby's printed book: and on my application, leave was most courteously granted by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford for taking a Copy of the manuscript. On examining this copy with M. Le Verrier (then engaged in discussing Bradley's observations), we found that corrections were required in several places.
More lately, I applied (in the first instance through Lord Wrottesley) to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Jeune, in reference to the possibility of transferring these manuscripts to the Royal Observatory. Dr. Jeune entertained my application with the utmost kindness, although under the very peculiar circumstances of the tenure of the manuscripts by the University, it was necessary to act with great caution. My application was aided in various ways by Professor Bartholomew Price; and my late confidential Assistant, Mr. Main (now Radcliffe Observer) gave the assistance of his official and technical knowledge. Finally, a decree for the transfer of the manuscript observations to the Royal Observatory, without any condition, was proposed to Convocation on May 2, and was passed unanimously. And on May 7 my Assistant, Mr. Dunkin, was sent to Oxford to receive them. And thus, after a delay of very nearly a century, the great act of justice is at length completed, and the great gap in our manuscript observations is at length filled up.
I am confident that the Visitors will recognize the liberality of the University of Oxford, and the attention and courtesy of the Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Jeune, in acceding to my application for this transfer.
The Manuscripts which continue to accumulate in the current proceedings of the Observatory (and which are by no means confined to purely Astronomical subjects) are carefully put in order and bound.
The Minutes of the Board of Visitors from 1784 to 1830 are not yet found. I am very anxious to promote the search for this Document in every possible way.
Section 4. Library. The Library has received no change or addition worthy of remark. A few books have been bought, but a greater number have been presented by foreign and British institutions.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The principal instruments within our walls which are not strictly the property of the Observatory, are some of the Standards of Length and Weight constructed by Mr. Sheepshanks and Professor Miller.
The Parliamentary Copies of the Yard Standard and Pound Standard are in good order.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The arrangement of current papers is now kept up at intervals not exceeding a few weeks; and the binding, where necessary, is effected about once in a year. In both these classes of work our customary provisions for order had been allowed to drop too much behind, and in consequence we have had a rather oppressive accumulation in the present spring. Since I first put the Manuscripts in order (about 20 years ago), a necessity for changes of classification has occurred; and Mr. Carpenter is now engaged with a thorough revision of the arrangement and cataloguing of the bound Manuscripts. When this troublesome work shall be completed, I expect that our papers will be preserved in excellent order.
I regret that the Minutes of the Board of Visitors from 1784 to 1830 have not yet been found.
Section 4. Library. With moderate attention, and small purchases, the Library is maintained in an efficient and very useful state. Nothing, however, has occurred requiring special remark.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The Parliamentary Copies of the Yard Standard and the Pound Standard, which are deposited in the Royal Observatory under the provisions of the Standard Act, for official custody, are in good order.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The arrangement and cataloguing of the bound Manuscripts by Mr. Carpenter, one of the Assistants of the Royal Observatory, to which I alluded as in progress at the last Visitation, have been completed.
The current arrangement of Manuscripts, as they accumulate daily, is closely kept up, on a system which the experience of many years has shown to be very satisfactory; and volumes are bound from time to time, when the amount of collected papers on any special subject appears to make binding desirable.
The minutes of the Board of Visitors from 1784 to 1830 have not been found. I do not doubt of their safe preservation; but, after inquiring in many directions, I know not now where to look for them.
Section 4. Library. The Library continues to increase, partly by moderate purchases, but principally by presents. As far as depends on the direction given by me, it is in great measure confined to the subjects which are actively pursued in the Observatory.
The system of arrangement and catalogue, which was planned many years ago, has been kept up with general regularity. It now appears to require change, and Mr. Carpenter is charged with the preparation of a new Catalogue.
Section 2. Moveable Property. Its [the Observatory’s] ornamental property has received a most valuable addition, in a bust of the highest merit, by Foley, of the Rev. R. Sheepshanks, many years a Member of the Board of Visitors; presented by Miss Sheepshanks.
The Visitors are aware that, under the provisions of the Standard Act, an official copy of each of the two fundamental Standards (that of length, and that of weight) is preserved in the Royal Observatory. In the late spring, some alarm was occasioned by the discovery that the Parliamentary Standard of the Pound Weight had become coated with an extraneous substance produced by the decomposition of the lining of the case in which it was preserved. The appearance was so grave that the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury decided immediately to follow the course prescribed by the Standard Act for cases of destruction or injury of the Parliamentary (National) Standard, namely, to compare it with the three Parliamentary Copies, of which that at the Observatory is one. The comparison was made by Professor Miller of Cambridge. It is satisfactory to know that the National Standard was found to be entirely uninjured. It is also interesting to know that the Observatory copy contributed its share to the evidence on this point. The occurrence seems to prove the propriety of the arrangement legalized by the Standard Act for restoration of the Standard in case of loss or injury, namely that of comparison with certain Official Copies. It would have been a most laborious business to test the Standard by reference to the weight of water, as was provided in the last preceding Standard Act.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The ancient Manuscripts are preserved with the usual care; and the current and accumulating Manuscripts are, in the first place, arranged and stitched together, on a peculiar plan-which after many years' experience we have found to be very simple and satisfactory; and, in the next place, are bound as soon as the number of papers collected under each head requires it. The operations connected with this are generally in trusted to Mr. Carpenter. The Manuscripts are properly catalogued.
On the day of writing this Report, a packet of Bradley's MSS. relating principally to adjustments of the Greenwich Instruments, has been transferred by the Rev. H. O. Coxe, Librarian of the Bodleian Library, Oxford, to the Royal Observatory. [See RGO6/61.]
I adhere peremptorily to the rule of not permitting any original Manuscript to be taken out of the Observatory except by my own hands and to be kept under my own eye.
Lately, however, I have found the advantage of preserving duplicates which may be for a time lent from the Observatory. Several years ago (as was then notified to the Visitors), I was permitted, by the courtesy of the Vice-chancellor of the University of Oxford, to make accurate transcripts of Bradley's original Greenwich Observations, then preserved in the Bodleian Library. More lately (as the Visitors have been informed), the originals themselves have been transferred by the Senate in Convocation to the Royal Observatory. The copy is therefore free for use; and at the present time the copy of the observations from 1743 to 1749 (hitherto not printed) is in the hands of Mr. Hugh Breen for reduction of the observations (hitherto not reduced), and the copy of the observations from 1750 to 1762 is to be lent to Mr. Winnecke, for more complete reduction of the observations than was made by Bessel.
In my Reports for some years past, I have alluded to the supposed loss of the Minutes of the Board of Visitors from 1784 to 1830. I now believe that there never was such a collection, in a separate form. The Board of Visitors was, in fact, a Committee of the Council of the Royal Society, and its Minutes are, I believe, contained in the Minutes of the Council. The volume which I possess, extending from the institution of the Board to 1784, consists of leaves inserted in a guard-book. Having learned that detailed minutes connected with the Royal Observatory exist in the Minutes of the Council of the Royal Society, I solicited of the President and Council permission to have those Minutes copied; the permission was immediately granted, and facilities given to my copyist; and the passages bearing upon the Royal Observatory were selected and marked by the Assistant Secretary of the Society. My best thanks are due to the President and Council of the Royal Society for the liberality and promptitude with which they acceded to my request. I am very glad to possess in the Royal Observatory a series of documents which illustrate so much (and in the latter part nearly the whole) of its official history.
Section 4. Library. Some purchases are made by me, confined to the subjects which are followed in the active business of the Observatory; but the principal increase of books is derived from presents.
Preparations are made for the new Catalogue, but it is not yet begun. It is intended to adopt the method of moveable slips, now employed in the principal large libraries.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Mr. Carpenter [is charged ] with the Equatoreal and with the care of Manuscripts, Library, Distribution of Observations, &c.
[This is the first time that Airy makes a reference in this section of his Reports as to which member of staff had been placed in charge of the Library and Manuscripts. This information began to be reported in the introuctions to the volumes of Greenwich Observations a few years earlier, first appearing in the volume for the year 1860. They tell us that in 1860, 1861 and 1862, James Glaisher had 'general charge of the Observatory Library' and that William Ellis and James Carpenter 'keep the manuscripts in order'. The introduction to the 1863 volume states that Carpenter had 'the general charge of the Observatory Library and Manuscripts'. The Regulations of the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, dated 5 November 1853 state that at that time, Glaisher was 'charged with maintaining order in the library and manuscript room', that 'the arrangement of the library and manuscripts' was 'directed by the Astronomer Royal' who, 'from time to time' asked Glaisher for 'a report on the state of the library and the manuscripts'. For how long Glaisher had had these responsibilities is not currently known.]
Section 16. General Remarks. The whole amount of labour in the year can scarcely be gathered even from such a detailed Report as that which I have offered. The time consumed in reductions or comparisons connecting the past of Greenwich with the present; the correspondence with contemporaneous institutions; the responses to applications or inquiries of irregular character, by no means confined to astronomical, magnetical, or meteorological subjects, the preparations of new Introductions, Descriptions, or Memoirs; the .arrangements of manuscripts, books, and money-accounts; and the general administration; occupy a far larger proportion of our time than could be conjectured by any person who has not had the experience of an establishment, old, active, and widely connected. The part of these labours which falls on myself [Airy] has been felt in the past year as heavier than usual.
Section 2. Moveable Property. An excellent copy Bust of one of the Members of the Board has been presented to the Observatory, and now adorns the room in which the Board usually meet. The East India 10-feet Standard of Length B, which for some years has been in the custody of the Astronomer Royal, is for a short time transferred, to the Ordnance Survey Office at Southampton, for comparison by Captain A. R. Clarke, R. E., with a large number of Standards, Foreign as well as British, which have been employed in the principal geodetic operations. No other change has taken place in our standard property, except the occasional introduction of small apparatus subservient to the uses of the principal instruments.
Every article is catalogued as closely as is practicable.
Every part of the moveable property is maintained in good and serviceable order.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The ancient Manuscripts have always been carefully catalogued; and, about a year ago, a new and somewhat more systematic Catalogue was prepared, including all the bound Manuscripts to the present time. All are carefully preserved in fire-proof rooms or fire-proof presses, and are in good order.
The system which I introduced about 27 years ago, for temporary arrangement and connexion of current papers, is still found to work exceedingly well, and is still adopted in daily use. This system preserves the papers in a form ready at any time for binding; every paper is secure in its book (admitting, however, of change of place with little trouble), and every paper lies flat and easy for reading.
The copy of Bradley's Observations from 1743 to 1749, to which I alluded in the last Report to the Visitors, is still in the hands of Mr. Hugh Breen, for reduction of the Observations.
The copy of Bradley's and Bliss's Observations from 1750 to 1762 was delivered to Dr. Winnecke on occasion of his visit to the Royal Observatory in the summer of last year. I know not how the new reduction of the Observations has advanced. Dr. Winnecke, I grieve to say, has been struck with serious illness.
I have lately had a manuscript copy made (by tracing on thin paper), of every loose paper of Bradley's (a very large mass), and of the books in which he made his brief memoranda of the observations of stars whose names and elements of position had been set down in a systematic form for observation. The last-mentioned books were particularly desired by Professor Argelander and Dr. Winnecke, as giving great facilities for reference to all the days of observation of each star. The illness of Dr. Winnecke has prevented me from yet sending these manuscript copies to the Continent.
Section 4. Library. The Catalogue of the Library has been completed by Mr. Carpenter, on the principle of moveable slips, as mentioned in the last Report. It is one advantage of this method that it allows the books to be grouped by similar sizes, and a great deal of shelf-room is thus gained. The division of the books under a few separate heads, both in the library-room and in the catalogues, is still retained.
The Library continues to increase, the additions being principally in works connected with Astronomy, Magnetism, and Meteorology, and the Mathematico-physical Sciences.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Other Assistants in order of seniority are: ... Mr. Carpenter, who observes generally and especially with the Equatoreal, and has the entire care of Library, Manuscripts, and Distribution of Observations.
Section 2. Moveable Property. All our disposable modern standards of length have been placed in the hands of Colonel Sir Henry James, R.E., Director of the Trigonometrical Survey of Britain, for comparison with the Ordnance Standards, and with the standards of other countries. No other change worth remark has been made in the disposal of our property.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Our current manuscripts are collected, indexed, bound, and catalogued, without change of system. The bound manuscripts are periodically compared with the catalogue. The correspondence applies to a great range of scientific subjects.
The copy of Bradley's observations, 1743 to 1750, lately in the hands of Mr. Breen, has been returned to the Observatory.
The copy of Bradley's and Bliss's observations, 1750 to 1762, was conveyed by Dr. Winnecke to Pulkowa, and has since been placed in the hands of Dr. Auwers at Gotha, for revision of Bessel's reductions.
The copy of Bradley's loose papers has been sent to Pulkowa.
A copy has been made of Bradley's Zenith Sector Observations; it is now waiting for an opportunity of conveyance to Dr. Auwers.
Section 4. Library. The Library, still confined in general to astronomical, magnetical, meteorological, and physical subjects, continues to increase slowly; the catalogue of books is kept up regularly; and the books are periodically compared with the catalogue.
I have no special remark to make on it [the library].
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. In the central or Bradley's mass of buildings, from the Manuscript Room (West Quadrant Room) to the Record Room, nothing has been done, except the hinging of the lower wood-walls of the North and South openings of the Transit Circle Room, to give facilities for the use of the lengthened Reversed Telescopes or Collimators.
Section 2. Moveable Property. The standards of length, to which I referred in my last Report as having been sent to Colonel Sir Henry James, have all been returned. With them was sent to me a Russian Standard, which has subsequently been sent by me to Russia.
The original portrait of John Dollond, usually suspended within the Octagon Room above the old entrance door, is at present lent for exhibition in the Collection of Portraits at South Kensington.
I have secured, for ornament of the wall of the Octagon Room, an early copy of the engraving taken from the Portrait of Sir Isaac Newton, First President of the Board of Visitors, which has been preserved in the collection of the Earl of Portsmouth, but which only lately has attracted public attention.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The system of collecting, binding and indexing our manuscripts, is continued with the most perfect regularity; and is always kept up as near as is convenient and practicable to the current time. A special Catalogue of Manuscripts is maintained, and a comparison with the Catalogue is made periodically.
I am anxious that the Board of Visitors should satisfy themselves as to the care which is devoted to the safe preservation of the manuscripts under all contingencies. It has lately come to my knowledge that a large quantity of valuable calculations is missing from an Office of Government; and that, after making the most careful inquiries, it is believed that the sheets of calculation, unbound and not properly marked, had been carried to the dwelling-house of the last Chief of the Office, and after his decease were sold as waste-paper.
The copy of Bradley's and Bliss's observations, 1750 to 1762, is still in the hands of Dr. Auwers; and the copy of Bradley's loose papers is at Pulkowa. The copy of Bradley's Zenith- Sector observations is still waiting for Dr. Auwers.
Section 4. Library. Attention is always given to works issuing from the Press, or works appearing in the market, on subjects of astronomy, magnetism, meteorology, and general physics; and those which seem to be worthy of permanent retention are purchased. The number of these is small, The principal part of the addition to our Library arises from presents. The Library, however, increases slowly.
The books are carefully catalogued, and are compared annually with the Catalogue.
The use of the books is permitted to all the Assistants and Computers. I believe that they derive much assistance from this access to scientific works of the best character.
The Library is in good order, requiring no special remark.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. The Assistants who are personally recognised by the superior offices of Government are: ... Mr. Carpenter, Manager of the Equatoreals, and Superintdendent of Library, Manuscripts, and Issue of Printed Works.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. In the principal Library, I have placed an iron air-stove; the chimney-grate being found in many circumstances useless for warming the room.
In the Lower Record Room I propose to fix, on the unoccupied walls, additional sets of slate shelves. And I hope soon to remove the stores of printed books, which at present occupy space that was not intended for them, into another place of deposit, to which I shall soon allude.
Section 2. Moveable Property. In my office of Chairman of successive Commissions on Standards, I had received some Standards of Length and Weight from Departments of Government, and I had purchased other Standards and Apparatus of great historical value (as Ramsden's and Roy's Standards of Length, Kater's Scale-beam for weighing great weights, and others); I had also received Standards and Balance presented by the Government of the United States of America: all which had been deposited in the Royal Observatory, from the absolute want of any office in the British Dominions in which they could with propriety be placed. In the course of the last year, a Department of Standards was created, subordinate to the Board of Trade; and to this all the Standards, &c. of which I have spoken, have, with the approval of the various Departments to which they might be considered to belong, been transferred. The" Parliamentary Copies" of the National Standards of Length and Weight, located in the Royal Observatory under sanction of an Act of Parliament, remain here [in the lower record room].
The portrait of John Dollond is returned from the South Kensington Exhibition of Portraits
Section 3. Manuscripts. It is part of the ordinary system of the Observatory to maintain the Manuscripts in the best and safest order. Correspondence of all kinds is always brought to myself, and is deposited in an extensive system of subdivided portfolios in my official room, from which it receives its first and principal arrangement. All papers are punched with the same definite and invariable system of holes. After this, each collection of papers is divided into packets according to well-understood rules; the papers of each packet are united by threads passed through certain holes of the system above mentioned, to form a packet; and the packets are united by stronger strings passing through other holes, to form a book: every paper is thus accessible without removal from its place, and every paper is in its proper place. When these books become inconveniently large, they are handed to a binder, who binds them in the same order, separating one packet from another by a notched paper, with numerical references on the notches.· An Index at the beginning shows the place of every packet; and any paper can be found without difficulty.
The same system is applied to all detached astronomical or other calculations, &c.
Those which are made in bound books require no further trouble.
The punctured Chronograph Sheets are preserved in a series of wooden portfolios. The Catalogue of Manuscripts is maintained and verified as usual.
The copy of Bradley's and Bliss's observations, 1750 to 1762, is in the hands of Dr. Auwers; the copy of Bradley's Zenith-Sector observations has been handed to him by Mr. O. Struve; as also, I believe, the copy of Bradley's loose papers. Great interest is attached by the German Astronomers to the examination of Bradley's originals, or the copies which come next to the originals. I have reason to hope that Dr. Auwers may be induced to visit this country, for the purpose of more severely examining some minute points.
Section 4. Library. The purchases of books are confined to the physical class; and more especially to those which treat of our own subjects, astronomy, magnetism, meteorology, optics; and in these we scarcely go beyond the books whose classical character or antiquity of date seems particularly to claim attention. Our additions therefore are not very extensive. The increase by presents from extraneous bodies is greater. Due attention is given to the binding of small serials, tracts, &c.
The Catalogue of books is carefully maintained, and a comparison of the books with the Catalogue is made every year.
Assistants and Computers are permitted to use the books, under proper regulations.
The value of such a Library, both for reference on the matters suggested by the business or correspondence of the Observatory, and for the instruction of all persons connected with the Observatory, is very great.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Mr. Carpenter's office-time is wholly engrossed with attention to the Library, the Manuscripts, the business of distributing Printed Observations and other parts of the literary administration. All [the assistants] as well as some of the Junior Computers, are employed in observations; those with the Equatoreals being usually confided to Mr. Carpenter.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. The small Safe Room of the Observatory (a portion of the original Quadrant Room) had, from various changes, become very inconvenient for Observatory use. I have now removed the manuscripts which it contained into the Record Room, and have appropriated it to the preservation of Books and Papers, partly my own, partly related to local institutions. By the existing arrangement of doors, &c., the room has in fact been always more closely connected with the dwelling-house than with the Observatory.
It has been found desirable to keep in readiness for use when required a framed stage, which can be planted upon the staircase-roof of the South-East Dome, and which then gives access to every part of the exterior of the revolving drum-dome. For convenient preservation of the parts of this stage, a small shed has been fixed on the leads of the Library.
The air-holes for admitting air to the stove by which the Record Room is warmed were open to the north. In consequence of this position, it was almost impossible to obtain a proper in-draft of air, when the damp S.S.W wind was blowing, and when drying heat was most wanted. I have lately pierced the south wall, in order to give air-entrance on that side.
The additional sets of slate-shelves have been fixed in the Lower Record Room. And I hope that, before the presentation of this Report, the stores of printed books which now incumber that room will have been transferred to the new depôt on the newly-added ground.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Under a system which I explained in detail in my last Report to the Visitors, our papers of every kind are very carefully preserved. The actual working of the plan is intrusted to Mr. Carpenter, by whom its principles are carried out with great care and accuracy. The course which I adopt collects in chronological order all the papers relating to each subject, so that its history can be perfectly traced.
The bound volumes, both of my predecessors' and of my own correspondence, observations, and calculations, have lately been compared with the catalogue and found correct.
The pencil memorandum-books of observations are collected at the end of every year, and a box is then prepared for the books of the year, in each of the departments of Meridian Observations, Altazimuth and Extrameridional Observations, and Magnetic and Meteorological Observations; and reference to every original observation is very easy. The Chronograph Sheets are preserved in large wooden portfolios.
Various manuscript copies of original observations and calculations are still in the hands of foreign astronomers; namely, Bradley's and Bliss's Meridional Observations, 1750 to 1762, lent to Dr. Auwers; and Bradley's Zenith-Sector Observations, and Bradley's loose papers, lent to Mr. O. Struve.
Section 4. Library. Our Library is very valuable, and is indeed almost a standard library, for physical subjects generally, but more particularly for astronomy, magnetism, meteorology, and optics. Assisted as we are by numerous presents from observatories, academies, philosophical societies, and private men of science, it is not necessary to incur great expense in purchases.
The binding, the cataloguing, and the periodical comparison with catalogue, of such a library, require a distinct systematic arrangement. This is the duty of Mr. Carpenter. The last comparison was made about three months past, when all was found perfect.
I attach much importance to the Library, as a part of the Observatory on which the intellectual character of the whole must greatly depend. That it has contributed materially to raise the tone of the Observatory, I am very confident.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Mr. Carpenter, takes the care of the Equatoreals, but is principally occupied with the Library, the Manuscripts, the distribution of our printed Observations, and the general literary administration of the Observatory, which is very heavy.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. All printed books have been removed from the Lower Record Room, and its shelves are occupied by manuscripts. It is estimated by Mr. Carpenter that an additional length of ten feet of shelving is required every year; and in a few years some additional shelves must be provided.
A temporary rough bridge or gallery has been carried from the north-west window of the Equatoreal Room to the leads above the Library. The object of this is to give facilities to Mr. Stone's observations on the radiating heat of the stars. The thermopile is carried by the telescope of the Equatoreal; but it was found impracticable to use the galvanometer in the proximity of so much moving iron. Wires were, therefore, led from the thermo-pile to the Library, where the galvanometer could be efficiently used, and the bridge was constructed to give rapid transit from the telescope to the galvanometer.
Section 3. Manuscripts. From a very early period in my connexion with the Royal Observatory, I perceived that it would be desirable to establish some plan of arranging papers, by which they should be placed in order and made mechanically secure before the operations of the professional binder commenced; that in fact, except for the papers last come to hand, there should scarcely be such a thing as a fugitive paper in the Observatory. The system then arranged has been steadily carried out; at present it is accurately worked by Mr. Carpenter.
All bound volumes have lately been collated with their catalogue, and were found correct.
Many of our original observations are recorded in pencil memorandum-books. The books which are closed in each year are collected, under the three heads of Meridional, Extrameridional, and Magnetic and Meteorological; and for each of these a box is constructed. Wooden portfolios are prepared for the large sheets, which are wrapped on the Chronograph Barrel and receive the punctures given by the clock-seconds and the observing touch-piece.
The manuscript copies of unpublished observations and calculations, to which I alluded in my last Report as lent to foreign astronomers, are still in their hands. They consist of various papers of Bradley and Bliss, and were communicated to Dr. Auwers and M. O. Struve. Those who know the degree of adoration with which Bradley is regarded by the German astronomers will not be surprised at the importance which they attach to these papers.
Section 4. Library. Our Library is made valuable by being in great measure confined to the four subjects of astronomy, optics, magnetism, and meteorology. The principal current publications on these subjects are presented to us; some are purchased in the ordinary way; and some of a periodical nature are received through Her Majesty's Stationery Office.
Mr. Carpenter superintends the binding and cataloguing of the books, and the general charge of lending them to the assistants.
The books were lately compared (as is done annually) with the Catalogue, and were found perfect.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. [The Astronomer Royal] is aided by ... Mr. Carpenter with the Equatoreals, the Library and Manuscripts, the distribution of Observations, and the literary administration.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The detached papers which arise in the daily operations of the Observatory are carefully collected and arranged in books, on the long-established system, which gives extraordinary facilities of reference, and preserves the papers in remarkable safety. The pencil memorandum-books are preserved, for each year, in proper boxes; and the large Chronograph Sheets are kept in wooden portfolios. The cloth-bound books of calculations are repaired when necessary. These matters are under the charge of Mr. Carpenter.
The bound books, including all from the time of Flamsteed, have, since the beginning of the year, been compared with the Catalogue of Manuscripts; none are missing.
A few papers of Mr. Baily's, relating to the distribution of copies of the " Life of Flamsteed," have been sent to the Observatory by the representatives of the late Professor De Morgan.
The copies of manuscripts by Bradley and Bliss, lent to Dr. Auwers and Mr. O. Struve, are still in their hands.
Section 4. Library. By presents and small purchases, our Library is kept in a good state, in reference to the subjects of optics, astronomy, magnetism, and meteorology; with a less perfect collection relating to other subjects.
The books are in the general charge of Mr. Carpenter, as librarian. They are accessible to all the assistants and computers.
The annual comparison with the Catalogue was made lately; every book was found.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Mr. Carpenter [takes charge] of the Equatoreals, the arrangement and safety of the Library and Manuscripts, and the distribution of printed works.
Section 3. Manuscripts. In an establishment like that of the Royal Observatory, I consider it a most important duty to give especial regard to the preservation of Manuscripts. It is obviously proper that care should be taken of those which relate to the original observations and calculations, and to the discipline of the Observatory; and as an instance of the necessity of continual attention, I may state that it came to my knowledge that, on the demise of an office closely connected with astronomy, very important manuscript calculations were sold for waste paper. But besides these records and computations, there is, in this Observatory, an astonishing amount of correspondence bearing upon the progress of most of the active sciences. The steps for the orderly preservation of all these papers have been reduced to a systematic form, and the daily action in it is carried out in a most satisfactory manner by Mr. Carpenter.
The bound volumes of manuscripts on the shelves have lately been compared with the Catalogue and found correct.
It will be necessary soon to provide additional shelving for the manuscripts.
A few papers of Mr. Baily's have lately been received; including some letters of De Zach, of great interest, I believe, for the history of science.
Some copy-manuscripts, formerly mentioned as lent out, are not returned.
Section 4. Library. The Library is in a satisfactory state. Much care is taken for the collection of pamphlets into the shape of books; for binding in all cases where it is necessary; for raisonnée arrangement on the shelves; and for cataloguing on the principle of moveable slips, now extensively adopted in large libraries. Mr. Carpenter takes charge of this department.
The annual comparison of producible books, or of books lent for a special purpose, with the Catalogue, was lately made; there was no deficiency.
It is considered that the standard subjects of the library are, astronomy with its cognate branches in chronology and geography, magnetism, meteorology, and optics, with several series of the best Academical Transactions; but other works are also admitted. The principal additions are made by presents; for some of these we are indebted to the Foreign and Colonial Offices. Small purchases, however, are made, principally through H. M. Stationery Office.
The shelves of the Library will soon require extension.
The books are lent, under ordinary library-regulations, to the assistants and computers. To them, as well as to the abstract institution, the Library is valuable.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Mr. Carpenter, Superintendent of the Equatoreals, the Library and Manuscripts, and printed works for distribution.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The same care has been given to the preservation of our manuscripts, and the same system has been adopted for their arrangement, as heretofore. But, since losing the aid of my Assistant, Mr. James Carpenter, to whom this department had been almost entirely intrusted, it has been necessary for me personally to direct, with very close superintendence, the arrangement of a large mass of paper. Advantage has been gained to several parts of the work, by this direction, for time, of my own vigorous attention. In the mean time, other assistants have been trained to the work, and it is ceasing to be very engrossing to myself. ..
The manuscripts which admit of being bound in simple masses are bound under the superintendence of H.M. Stationery Office. Those which require notched or index papers are bound, under arrangement of the Controller of the Stationery Office, by a local binder.
The manuscripts have lately been examined and found to correspond with the Catalogue
There is no difficulty in providing the additional shelves which will shortly be required.
The few copy-manuscripts which were lent out have not been returned; apparently from want of opportunity.
Section 4. Library. Since the departure of Mr. Carpenter, the Library has been placed under the charge of Mr. Dunkin. It is generally in very good order; the binding is slightly in arrear, but will soon be completed, by the binding agents of H.M. Stationery Office.
The Catalogue is properly kept up, and the books are annually compared with it. At the late comparison, every book was producible.
So many additions are made by presents in those classes of which the Library principally consists (astronomy, chronology, geography, magnetism, meteorology, optics, and academical transactions), that few purchases are necessary. These are made principally, when required, through the Stationery Office.
The extension of shelving now required can be made, partly by a new closet (now in preparation) close to the door of Library 2, and partly by the "Upper Depôt," formerly occupied by Greenwich Publications
The Library is accessible, under simple regulations, to the Assistants of the Observatory.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. Till the end of September 1872, the establishment and division of employment of the Assistants were the same which they have been for several years. At that time, Mr. Carpenter (at his own desire) resigned his office ... . The employments of the several Assistants may now be nearly described as follows:- ... Mr Dunkin, Superintendent of Supernumerary Astronomical Computers; especially charged with the reduction of Meridional Transits; and intrusted with the care of the Library and Manuscripts. ... Mr Criswick, Superintendent of Reductions of Meridional Circle Observations; charged also with the superintendence of the binding of Books and Manuscripts, and the distribution of the Publications of the Royal Observatory.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. A first-floor-room under the Altazimuth Dome, fitted with shelves, formerly called the Upper Depôt, has been taken for extension of the Library, and is called Library 4.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The gradual increase in the number of the valuable manuscript records of observations and calculations, and in general scientific correspondence, has necessitated a corresponding increase in the shelving of the Record Room, and 140 feet of new slate shelves have been erected; and all the manuscript shelves have been classed and numbered.
The general binding of manuscripts continues under the superintendence of H. M. Stationery Office, on the system explained in the last Report.
The usual annual examination of manuscripts has been made, and all were found on the shelves, with the exception of a transcript of Bradley's manuscript observations lent to Dr. Auwers, and not yet returned.
Section 4. Library. The charge of the Library has been transferred from Mr. Dunkin, who undertook the management of it on Mr. Carpenter's resignation, to Mr. Criswick. This arrangement is more convenient, as Mr. Dunkin's regular work of superintending the supernumerary computers was somewhat interrupted by his having the care of the Library.
The books on the shelves have been carefully compared with the Catalogue as usual, and are in good order; some few are missing, which we believe to be merely misplaced. A new set of regulations for the use of the Library has been drawn up, with a view to ensure the due entry in the lending book of every work taken from the shelves, and its return to its proper place on being brought back. Some books have been transferred to the new closet, now called Library 3, close to the door of Library 2, and some have been placed in the Upper Depôt, now Library 4. The books in Libraries 1 and 2 have also been re-arranged on the shelves, so as to use the space more economically.
An unusual quantity of binding, under the superintendence of H. M. Stationery Office, has been done in the present year. The collection of pamphlets had become very large.
The duplicate copies of works in the Library, which have hitherto been kept in the East Dome, have been removed to the Record Room, and thoroughly overhauled. All those that appeared worth preserving have been set aside, and I am now considering where they can most conveniently be placed. Many of these books are valuable as works of reference, and it is important to have them readily accessible. Some old copies of De Morgan's Five-figure logarithms, a work which has long been out of print, were found in the course of this examination, and secured for the Transit of Venus Expedition.
Section 14. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement is as follows:- ... Mr Criswick, [is] charged with the translations of the punctures of the Chronographic Barrel into numbers; and as Librarian, with the superintendence of the binding of Books and Manuscripts, and with the distribution of the Publications of the Royal Observatory.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The bound manuscripts have all been placed upon the slate-shelving (including the new shelves of which mention was made in the last year's Report), and arranged under my own eye. All are labelled, and the letters of the classes and the Nos. of the shelves are marked on them; but we have not had leisure to inscribe the Nos, of the individual books.
The binding of manuscripts of every department is continued, as often as the manuscripts in each department accumulate in sufficient numbers to form a volume. At the present time the binding is somewhat in arrear; the excessive pressure of work, arising from the arrangements for the Transit of Venus, having absorbed much of our time.
From the same cause the annual examination of bound manuscripts, in comparison with the Catalogue, has not yet been completed.
Section 4. Library. Mr. Criswick having been charged with the superintendence of the Time Department, the Library has been placed under the care of Mr. Downing.
The books have been compared with the Catalogue; two books appear at present to be missing.
The number of books has been considerably increased by presents, from foreign countries; partly, I think, in consequence of the facilities now given by foreign bookpost; partly from the enormous activity in the publication of unreduced meteorological observations in the utmost detail. I doubt whether the value of the Library is much increased by the works last mentioned.
Among the duplicates, to which I alluded in the last Report, are some bound copies of works of standard character, of which a list has been made, with the view (under the sanction of the Admiralty) of distributing them gratuitously. A portion of these have been presented to the Cambridge Observatory. It seems doubtful whether the: mass of unbound pamphlets are worth preservation.
Section 16. Personal Establishment. A general chagne in the duties of the observers has been rendered necessary by the resignation of Mr. Glaisher at the end of 1874. The actual arrangement is as follows:- ... Mr Downing, [is] charged with the management of the Chronograph, and as acating as Librarian and distributor of printed works.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. I have often been struck with the exposed position of the Observatory, as regards the liability to burglary and theft; and have determined to make one place secure, in which, if necessary, valuable objects might be deposited. The small Manuscript Room, a separated portion of the Old Quadrant Room, having brick roof and iron door, required nothing but a proper lock on the door and iron bars on the window; these have been lately applied.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The daily arrangement of manuscripts in the first degree, and the occasional advance to the next important step (which is greatly facilitated by the punching-system that I introduced long ago), are kept up with great regularity. A large quantity has lately been bound, in their usual orderly arrangement.
The insertion of the proper current Nos. upon the class-labels is completed.
The usual annual comparison of the bound manuscripts with the former Catalogue has now been effected. All are found, with a few exceptions which, I believe, can be explained.
Of the large mass of manuscripts now collected and arranged, a considerable portion naturally relates to the internal history of the Observatory, – material, disciplinarian, and scientific. But a very large part also relates to external science of many branches; and this may at some future time contribute in a most important degree to the authentic history of science during the middle of the present century.
Section 4. Library. Numerous additions have been made to the Library by presents from foreign scientific bodies; and some have been obtained by purchase. These latter transactions are now conducted through H. M. Stationery Office, and every application made by me to that department has received prompt and careful attention.
The usual annual comparisons of books with their Catalogue IS completed j every book is found, or is accounted for.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing, [is] principally employed on the Library and the Manuscripts, which absorb much time.
Section 3. Manuscripts. One of the daily operations in the Observatory is to take the first step in the arrangement of the manuscripts of every kind which have come before us in the course of the day. This is followed at convenient intervals by other steps, of which the result is to produce ultimately a series of bound volumes of manuscripts in an accessible and (I trust) an orderly form.
The bound volumes are catalogued, and annual comparison is made with the catalogue. In the comparison lately finished, all the bound manuscripts were found in their places; there was wanting, however, a packet of papers relating to the Eclipse of 1860, which is lent to Mr. Ranyard for his assistance in drawing up the Report on that and other eclipses, and which I hope will shortly be returned.
Section 4. Library. I regard it as desirable for various reasons, (among which is, the instruction of all persons scientifically connected with the Observatory,) that for all subjects bearing upon the operations of the Observatory, the Library should be kept up to a condition well representing the present state of science. Our pursuits have ramified into more numerous branches than formerly (for instance into telegraphy, photography, spectroscopy), and in each of them literature has become more extensive; and in consequence our purchases of books have become larger than heretofore. Still they are not very large, and are small in comparison with the number of books presented to us.
The principal part of the presents consists of meteorological observations and academical transactions. And these, though it may be permitted to doubt their value (at least those of the first class), must be preserved, on the bare chance of ultimate reference. Our library accommodation will in a few years be somewhat distressed; and it is not easy to see how it can be extended.
The usual comparison of books with their Catalogue has lately been made, and all are found.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing usually communicates with H.M. Stationery Office, and is charged with the care of the Library and the Manuscripts, and the distribution of Printed Observations, &c.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. I continue to remark the approaching necessity for Library extension. Without having absolutely decided on a site, I may suggest that I should wish to erect a brick building, about 50 feet by 20, consisting of two very low stories (or rather of one story with a gallery running round its walls), so low that books can be moved by hand without necessity for a ladder. The site which appears most convenient is that at present occupied by the rubbish-yards of workmen, facing the eastern window of the Magnetic Observatory; care, however, must be taken in the selection of materials. For convenience of access to such a site, as well as to the Magnetic Observatory and other buildings, a light roof over the Magnetic Passage would be very desirable.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The utility of an Observatory rests so completely in its manuscripts, both of observations and of calculations, that I deem it my duty to maintain a constant watch on the security and the good order of those documents. Next in importance to these is the correspondence with men of science on all subjects bearing on our special pursuits; but there is a lower class, not to be neglected, of letters from and to persons who ask for information, or who desire judgment on their own speculations, sometimes of the most fanciful description.
I think it right to preserve all these papers, in an order which makes it possible at all times to trace out each series relating to anyone subject. To some future examiner they may offer interesting evidence, both on the steps of the real progress of science and on the efforts made by the less educated classes to connect themselves with science.
The plan which has been established here for many years appears to work well, and is maintained with scrupulous regularity. The first step is a rude arrangement made every day; the last result is a series of bound volumes of carefully classed manuscripts.
The volumes are catalogued, and are annually compared with the list. All appear to be complete, excepting a copy of Bradley's original volumes, which is lent to a German astronomer, and a packet of papers relating to the Eclipse of 1860, lent to Mr. Ranyard.
Section 4. Library. In conformity with our long-established plan, efforts are continually made to keep up our library to the current state of science in those branches which engage the attention of this Observatory. Its principal supply consists, as heretofore, in the presents from observatories and academies. . .
The books are at present too much scattered in four different rooms, and the pressure on the shelves is becoming too great.
The books are compared annually with their Catalogue. All appear to be correct.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing has library, manuscripts, business with H.M. Stationery Office, and distribution of printed works.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. Preparations have been made for the erection of the new Library near the Magnetic House. A sum has been placed on the estimates, and the general plan has been arranged with the Works Department of the Admiralty. The clearing of the ground is advancing.
Section 3. Manuscripts. The manuscripts of every kind, which are accumulated in the ordinary transactions of the Observatory, are preserved with the same care and arranged on the same system as heretofore. The bound volumes in which they are ultimately collected, are classified as follows:-
| A. | Astronomical – chiefly Transit and Zenith Distance Reductions, and including the works of preceeding Astronomers |
1,160 | |
| B. | Astronomical – various Reductions, including also the Great Lunar and Planetary Reductions |
584 | |
| C. | Astronomical – Star Catalogues, Correspondence, &c. |
400 | |
| D. | Standards, Tides, Railway, Gas, and other Commisions, &c. | 190 | |
| E. | Scientific Societies | 30 | |
| F. | Correspondnence with Assistants, Computers, and Tradesmen | 150 | |
| G. | Altazimuth Reductions | 550 | |
| H. | Magnetism and Meteorology | 400 | |
| I. | Meteorology | 130 | |
| J. | Chronometers | 340 | |
| K. | General Science | 20 | |
| L. | General Science | 115 | |
| M. | Administration | 130 |
The total number of bound volumes exceeds 4,000.
Besides these there is the great mass of Transit of Venus Reductions and manuscripts, which when bound may be expected to form about 200 volumes.
All the bound volumes have been compared lately with the Catalogue. None were missing from the shelves except a transcript of Bradley's Observations, lent to Dr. Auwers.
Section 4. Library. In regard to the Library, we endeavour to keep it in a standard state as regards our original subjects (Astronomy, Magnetism, Meteorology, and their accompanying instrumental subjects), and evenmore as regards the new subjects (Photography and Spectroscopy). In this we are greatly assisted by H.M. Government, acting through the Stationary Office.
The number of volumes of the various classes are:-
| Astronomy | 1,120 | ||
| Mathematics, Mechanics and Hydrostatics | 520 | ||
| Physics, Optics and Electricity | 430 | ||
| Magnetism | 100 | ||
| Meteorology | 650 | ||
| Geodesy | 330 | ||
| Regular Observations, Astronomical, and Magnetical and Meteorological | 630 | ||
| Tables, General and Planetary | 180 | ||
| Ephemerides | 700 | ||
| Transactions | 2,200 | ||
| General Literature, Dictionaries, Statistics, and Geography | 540 |
making a total of 7,400 volumes, exclusive of pamphlets.
The annual comparison of books with the Catalogue has been made, and all are found.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. The personal appointments remain as at the date of the last Report: ... Mr Downing on library, manuscripts, affairs with the Stationery Office, and distribution of publications.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. stated in the last Report that steps had been taken for the erection of a new Library near the Magnetic Observatory. The Admiralty, on final consideration of the estimates, decided not to proceed with the work; and they have repeated that decision in the present year. In the meantime the space has been cleared (which, in consequence of the necessity of removing some offices, was a more troublesome work than was anticipated), and I am confident that the Visitors will recognize that the state and general appearance of the Observatory Grounds are much improved. The space will admit of the erection of a building 50 by 20 feet; and I propose to erect here a room of one story, but with galleries at mid-height, so that there would never be need to use a ladder. Among other changes occurring in this clearance, I have removed the Electrometer Mast (a source of some expense and some danger); the perfect success of Sir William Thomson's Electrometer rendering all further apparatus for the same purpose unnecessary: and have changed the position of the well and pump used for draining the Magnetic Basement. The demand for additional library-room becomes more and more pressing.
Section 3. Manuscripts. Our store of manuscripts-observations, calculations, and correspondence continues to increase at its usual rate; but no extraordinary addition has been made.
The retardation in the more confidential parts of the business of the Observatory, arising from the long-continued illness and final retirement of an able Assistant, has (among other things) prevented us from thoroughly examining the stored manuscripts. It has, however, been incidentally discovered that a collection of Zenith Points of the Altazimuth is missing. It has not been entered in any of our Catalogues; and this circumstance induces me to hope that it may have been bound up with other papers. I am, however, preparing a search in another direction. Besides this defect we know at present of no other, except the papers (cited in former Reports) lent to Dr. Auwers.
(The usual comparison with the Catalogue has at length been made, and all the catalogued manuscripts are found.)
Section 4. Library. No change has been made in plan, but in some departments the number of books has increased rapidly. Fundamental Astronomy advances slowly; Magnetism is almost stationary; Geodesy progresses; Photography and Spectroscopy increase very fast; and Meteorology the most rapidly of all. The Transactions of Foreign Academies increase in number.
This is owing, I imagine, to the general scientific activity, both of Academicians and of private men of science, in most foreign countries; and to the facilities given for transmission, by the courtesy of Publishers and by the extension of Book Post.
Our purchases have been few.
The Library has been compared with the Catalogue, as is usual, and all the books have been found.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. Mr. Lynn, though in feeble health, continued to take charge of the Altazimuth to the present year, but increasing want of strength compelled him to retire in January; the care of the Altazimuth was then transferred to Mr. Downing. With the assistance of a supernumerary computer, Mr. Downing maintains also the general regulation of the Library and the Manuscripts, as well as all correspondence with the Government office relating to stationary, and distribution of the printed works originating at the Observatory.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds. The erection of the proposed new Library, the site for which had been cleared last year, has been sanctioned by the Government, and the work will be carried out under the superintendence of the Director of Works to the Admiralty. The building is to consist of a room of one storey, 50 by 18 feet, with galleries at mid-height. To make room for the new Library, the fire-hydrant near the Magnetic Observatory has been moved a short distance. (It may here be mentioned that the fire-hose is periodically tested, and all the members of the staff are practised in its use.)
Section 3. Manuscripts. To accommodate our increasing store of manuscripts, new shelves have been placed in the Lower Record room.
The missing book of Zenith Points of the Altazimuth has not been found. It appears to have been lost at the binder's. The Bradley manuscripts lent to Dr. Auwers for many years have been returned. ..
The usual comparison of the manuscripts with the Catalogue has been made, and all the catalogued manuscripts have been found.
Section 4. Library. The increase in the number of books has caused serious inconvenience, through the pressure on our present limited space; and a more commodious library is urgently needed. The cataloguing of the library, which had fallen into arrear owing to the long delay in the appointment of an Assistant, has now been completed and everything is in its normal condition It has, however, not been possible to find room for all the books in due sequence on the shelves, and they have been temporarily arranged as well as the space at our disposal permits. A new section of “Astronomical Physics” would be desirable.
We have many duplicates, especially of Modern Serial Transactions, which it will be necessary to banish from the library.
The library has been compared with the Catalogue, as usual, and all the books have been found.
Section 15. Personal Establishment. The staff is at present constituted as follows:- In the Astronomical Department ... Mr Thackeray, principally employed on the Library and Manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The new Library, a building 55 feet long and 18 feet broad, was erected at the end of last year, but the walls were so damp that the whitewashing of the ceiling had to be deferred till the middle of May, and it is only now ready for the reception of books. It is proposed to transfer to the new building, which is close to the Magnetic Observatory, the sections Magnetism and Meteorology, as well as books in other sections, and manuscripts from the Record room, to which reference is seldom made. Sufficient space will thus be gained for the proper arrangement of books in the two rooms forming the old library, which is more conveniently placed for the use of the Astronomical Department. The usual annual comparison of books and manuscripts with the catalogue has been made. The missing manuscript book of Altazimuth Zenith Points has at length been found at the binder's, where it had been mislaid.
The copy of the Imperial standard yard deposited at the Royal Observatory was transferred in November last to the Standards Department for the purpose of comparing it with the other Parliamentary copies, and returned to the Observatory in February. The comparison appears to be satisfactory, as showing that no appreciable change has taken place.
A series of pendulum observations was made in the Record room last autumn by Major Herschel, R.E.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Thackeray, is principally employed on the library and manuscripts, and has also charge of the chronograph and of the stationary.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The presentation of the Lassell two-feet reflecting telescope by the Misses Lassell, of which further mention will be made, has necessitated some alterations in the buildings and grounds. It has been mounted in the South Ground, and a circular building 30 feet in diameter has been erected in preparation for the dome. The dip and deflexion instruments have in consequence been moved from Magnetic Office No. 7 to the New Library.
The re-arrangement of books consequent on the building of the new Library has been completed. The sections Magnetism, Meteorology, Electricity, Statistics, Voyages, and General Literature, together with some serial works to which reference is seldom made, and all duplicates, have been transferred to the new building, books connected with Astronomy, scientific transactions, and ephemerides being kept in the two rooms forming the old library. Space has also been gained in the Record room by the transfer of some of the less important series of manuscripts to the new Library. A number of complete sets of the Greenwich publications have also been transferred to this building from the Depôt to diminish the risk of total destruction of our stock by fire. Some of our duplicates have at Dr. Doberck's desire been presented to the new Hong Kong Observatory. The books and manuscripts have, as usual, been compared with the catalogue. All are accounted for, with the exception of one small pamphlet, which has probably been mislaid.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Thackeray, has the care of the Library and manuscripts, of the chronographic transits, and of stores and stationary.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts in the Library with the catalogue is now being made.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Thackeray, has the care of the Library and manuscripts, and of stores and stationary. He also undertakes the work of the chronograph.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts in the Library with the catalogue has been made, and all have been found on the shelves.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing with two computers undertakes the altazimuth and equatoreal reductions with the care of the library and MSS. and of the altazimuth and Lassell equatoreal.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. Much inconvenience has been felt from the small size of the two Computing Rooms, and though this has been partially met by removing the Spectroscopic and Photographic branch to the New Library, the air-space still seems insufficient, whilst the removal of a part of the establishment to a distant building is not altogether satisfactory. The lower Computing Room could be considerably enlarged by including the Quadrant Passage, and the area of the Upper Computing Room could be more than doubled by extending it over the ancient Quadrant Room.
The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts in the Library and Record Room with the catalogue has been made, and all have been found on the shelves with the exception of three books, for which search is being made.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing is charged with the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and with the care of the library and MSS.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The old instruments and apparatus stored in the South-east lower room have been thoroughly overhauled by Mr. Lewis, and those that appeared to be merely of historical interest have been transferred to Library 4, under the Altazimuth dome. The remainder are now disposed so as to be readily available for use,
The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts in the Library and Record Room with the catalogue has been made. Two of the books missing last year have been found on the shelves, but the third (a small octavo book) and two others are missing.
A copy of Maskelyne's printed observations has been lent to Dr. Auwers.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing superintends the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and has the care of the library and manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The alterations required in the Safe Room in connexion with the work on the new rooms and pier necessitated the removal of Bradley's North Quadrant, which has been placed in the Transit-Circle Room. The South Quadrant which is mounted on the east face of the pier has not been disturbed.
The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts with the catalogue has been made. The three books missing last year have not be found, and another book, a pamphlet and a bound manuscript volume are also missing. It is possible that the last named has been mislaid in the moving of books and manuscripts out of the Computing Rooms for the building operations. Dr Auwers has a copy of Maskelyne's printed observations on loan.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing is charged with the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and has the care of the library and manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts with the catalogue has been made. The bound manuscript volume, the pamphlet, and two of the books missing last year have been found. There are now two books missing, one since 1886, and the other since 1888 April. Dr Auwers has a copy of Maskelyne's printed observations on loan.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing is responsible for the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and has the care of the library and manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts with the Catalogue has been made, and one book is missing in addition to the two mentioned in the last Report, which have been struck off as "lost". A MS. volume ("Observations of the Total Solar Eclipse of 1860") is on loan to Mr. E. J. Lowe, one of the observers of that eclise.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing is responsible for the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and has the care of the library and manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. After much consideration it has been decided that the Museum or Storehouse for portable instruments and apparatus should be built so as to form the central octagon of a future cruciform structure in the South ground, which would accommodate the Physical Branch of the Observatory, and would carry the Lassell Equatorial and Dome at such a height above the ground that the neighbouring trees would not interfere with the effective use of the instrument. The building for the Museum (consisting of the two lower storeys of the octagon) was commenced at the beginning of March and is now nearly completed so far as the structure is concerned. In consequence of a recent decision of the Admiralty to largely increase the number of chronometers and deck watches for the Navy, additional accommodation for chronometers is required immediately, the space in the present Chronometer Room being insufficient even for existing requirements. A proposal is now under the consideration of the Admiralty to provide this by appropriating the room under the Chronometer Room and the Lower Record Room to chronometers, the South wing of the proposed Physical Observatory being built to receive the contents of these two rooms.
In other directions the difficulty of providing in the existing Observatory buildings for the accommodation of the increasing staff and of the accumulating material is severely felt, and it is very desirable that the pressure on the space available should now be relieved by means of a comprehensive scheme, which would supply a suitable fireproof brick building to replace the wooden sheds and huts which now disfigure the Observatory grounds, and to provide for the expansion which has taken place in late years and which may be expected to continue in the future. Amongst the requirements which are now pressing and for which provision would be made in the proposed building may be mentioned:–
(1) A computing; room for the Magnetical and Meteorological Branch in lieu of the small Ante-room of- the Magnetic Observatory which is built of wood and unsuited to present requirements.
(2) A computing room for the new Astro-photographic Branch.
(3) Fireproof rooms for the photographic records and books of calculations in these two branches.
(4) A library for the Physical Branch (Magnetical and Meteorological, Spectroscopic and Photographic).
(5) A store room for the stock of publications of the Observatory, at present housed in a wooden shed where they suffer much from damp.
(6) A laboratory and dark galleries for spectroscopy and photography.
(7) Bedrooms for occasional use by the observers.
The annual comparison of the books and manuscripts with the Catalogue has been made, and one book is missing in addition to that mentioned in the last Report. The MS. volume (" Observations of the Total Solar Eclipse of 1860") which was on loan to Mr. E. J. Lowe, has been returned.
The New Library has been placed in charge of the Magnetic and Meteorological Department, and the rearrangement of this Library occupied the Staff for a considerable time last autumn.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Downing is responsible for the altazimuth and equatoreal computations, and has the care of the library and manuscripts.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The Admiralty have authorized the building of the South wing of the proposed Physical Observatory during the present financial year, in order to provide additional accommodation for chronometers and deck watches, the room under the Chronometer Room and the Lower Record Room to he appropriated to chronometers as soon as the South wing is ready to receive the contents of these two rooms. The completion of the proposed Physical observatory by the building of the three other wings and of the two upper storeys of the central tower (to carry the Lassell Equatorial and Dome) has been postponed for the present, the admiralty, while recognizing the desirability of carrying out the work, being unable to make provision for it in the current financial Sear. The objects for which the new building is required were set forth in my last Report, and the experience of the past year has shown the urgent need for the accommodation which would be provided by the proposed Physical Observatory.
The Royal Observatory copies of the Standard Yard and Pound were removed to the Standard's Office for the decennial comparison last autumn, and were returned in February.
Owing to the pressure of the Montreal longitude work, the annual comparison of the books and manuscripts with the Catalogue has not yet been completed.
Sir G. B. Airy left by his will to the Observatory such books, manuscripts, &c., as his executors might consider likely to be useful, and in accordance with this bequest, Mr. Wilfrid Airy has transferred to the Observatory 94 volumes and 134 unbound tracts, which form an important and valuable addition to the Library, as well as the voluminous manuscript calculations of Sir G. B. Airy's Numerical Lunar Theory.
Sir G. B. Airy has also bequeathed to the Observatory the marble bust of himself by Foley, placed in the Octagon Room.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. There have been an unusual number of changes to the staff since the date of the last Report. ... On January 1 Mr. Downing was appointed Superintendent of the Nautical Almanac ... The staff at the present time is ... Mr Hollis has the care of the library and manuscripts and assists Mr. Turner in the Montreal and Paris longitude operations. [According to the introduction to the 1891 volume of Greenwich Observations, the transfer of the library and manuscripts from Downing to Hollis took place on 8 June 1891.]
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The building of the South wing of the proposed Physical Observatory, in order to provide additional accommodation for chronometers and deck watches, was commenced on November 24 last, but was interrupted on March 4, on arriving at the first floor, by a failure in the supply of terra cotta. Building operations are now about to be re-commenced. The need for further accommodation is being more urgently felt every day, in all departments of the Observatory. A number of the staff are at present housed in the Octagon room, which is part of my official residence; and the inconvenience of this arrangement was strikingly demonstrated during the last winter. In view of this the Admiralty have now authorized the building of the North wing of the Physical Observatory and the completion of the central octagon by the addition of a storey and the erection of the Lassell Dome over it, a much needed extension, the postponement of which, since it was first brought forward in 1891, has caused serious difficulty in carrying on the work of the Observatory, both as regards observations and computations.
In the New Library four cases of shelves have been fitted on the west side of the gallery for the storage of forms, of which a large stock is required for entry and reduction of the observations and for other purposes. Two large cases are also being fitted, one to hold 10-inch solar photographs, the stock of which has already filled one case, and the other the 16-centimetre stellar photographs for the Astrographic chart, which are rapidly accumulating.
The annual comparison of books in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, andtwo books and four pamphlets are at present missing. The book reported missing last year has been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Hollis has the care of the library and manuscripts and the longitude reductions.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The South wing of the Physical Observatory, intended to relieve the pressure in the Chronometer room, was at length completed after many delays on April 20, and is now being prepared for occupation. The building of the North wing and completion of the central octagon by the addition of a storey and the erection of the 30-feet Lassell Dome over it, which was authorized more than a year ago, has not yet been commenced, but it is understood that tenders for the work have been invited, and it is hoped that there -w-ill not be much further delay in providing this much needed extension. The details of this building have required careful consideration, and the plans have been skilfully worked out by Mr. Crisp under the supervision of the Director of Works for the Navy to meet the special requirements.
The generating plant for the electric light installation, supplied by Messrs. Johnson and Phillips, was set up and brought into successful action at the end of March, as soon as the progress of work on the new building would allow. The gas engine and dynamo are placed in the ground floor of the new South wing of the Physical Observatory, the accumulators in the adjoining shed, and a Brooke’s electric main is laid from the South wing to the Transit Circle lobby, from which distributing leads can readily be carried to the principal instruments and office rooms. This has, however, not yet been arranged, and the use of the electric light plant is at present confined to charging portable accumulators for use with some of the instruments.
The annual comparison of books in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, and four books are at present missing. The two of the books reported missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Hollis has the care of the library and manuscripts, of the longitude reductions, and of much miscellaneous correspondence which should naturally be undertaken by the Clerk.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The South wing of the Physical Observatory, which, as mentioned in the last Report, was completed on 1894 April 20, has been utilized to provide indirectly additional accommodation for chronometers and deck watches, and to relieve the pressure in the Computing Rooms. The ground floor has been fitted up as the Mechanics’ workshop, the gas engine and dynamo for electric lighting being placed there, and the room under the Chronometer Room which is thus set free has been fitted up for chronometers. The principal room and the attic are used provisionally for the accommodation of a portion of the staff, the former for the Heliographic and Altazimuth Branches and the latter for the Astrographic Branch. Dark rooms for photography have been fitted up provisionally in the lobbies on these two floors.
The building of the North wing and Central Dome of' the Physical Observatory and of the new Altazimuth Pavilion was commenced last November, but has been much delayed, first by the long frost this spring and then by failure in the supply of terra cotta. The foundations of the North wing have been laid and the walls built up to the level at which the terra cotta commences.
The completion of the electric light installation by the laying of distributing leads to the principal rooms was taken in hand on February 18, and the work, which has proved much more troublesome than was anticipated, is now nearly finished.
The annual comparison of hooks in the Libraries with the catalogue is now being made.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Hollis has the care of the library and manuscripts, of the longitude reductions, and since March 25 of the reduction of the measures of the astrographic plates.
Section 9. The building operations which are now slowly progressing, as mentioned in the first section of this Report, have greatly hampered the work of the Observatory during the past year, owing to difficulty of communication between the scattered buildings in which the various members of the staff, and the materiel (in the shape of instruments. photographs and manuscripts) with which they have to deal, are now dispersed. The whole of the available space within the Observatory enclosure is now occupied with buildings, and access to the South wing of the Physical Observatory, in which an important portion of the staff is now, accommodated, is rendered very difficult. The work of the Observatory cannot be carried on properly until the Physical Observatory is completed, and the much needed accommodation is provided for the staff and for the valuable photographic and other records which they have to discuss. Under these circumstances the delay in taking in hand the East and West wings, which are required to complete the building, is much to be deplored, prolonging as it does a period of intolerable confusion.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The building of the North wing and Central Dome of the Physical Observatory has been delayed by failures in the supply of terra cotta and by labour disputes, and is still unfinished as regards plastering and carpenters' work. The Lassell dome, which was erected in the South Ground in 1884, was taken down in August and has been re-erected on the new building. The completion of the Physical Observatory by the building of the East and West wings has been sanctioned, and provision has been made in the Navy Estimates for commencing the work during the present year.
It is proposed to extend the electric light installation to the new Altazimuth and to the Thompson photo-equatorial in the new Physical Observatory, and provision has been made for this in the Navy Estimates.
The annual comparison of books in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, and 4 books are reported missing.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite [appointed 21 May 1894] acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The building of the North wing and Central Dome of the Physical Observatory was finished in 1896 September, with the exception of the vane on the Central Dome, which was completed last March, but the office furniture was not all supplied till April, and it has therefore been necessary to postpone the occupation of the rooms till the present time. An observing floor and gallery have quite recently been fitted up in the Dome to facilitate work with the new Thompson Equatorial, now mounted there. The completion of the Physical Observatory by the building of the East and West wings has been further delayed, though provision was made for commencing the work in the last financial year. It is hoped that it will now be taken in hand, the necessary funds having been provided. Until this building is completed the arrangements for the accommodation of the staff and of the photographic and other records are necessarily provisional.
Provision has been made in the Navy Estimates for extending the electric light installation to the completed portion of the Physical Observatory and to the new Altazimuth Pavilion.
The annual comparison of hooks in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, and 9 books are reported missing. Two of the books reported missing last year have since been found. It is probable that some of the books now missing have simply been misplaced, the shelves being in a very crowded state.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The completion of the Physical Observatory by the building of the East and West wings, for which funds were provided in the Navy Estimates for 1896, was not taken in hand till 1897 October. The work is now proceeding, though delayed by failure in the supply of terra cotta. Heating apparatus to warm the whole building by means of hot air has now been fitted up, but it was not available during, the winter, its completion having been delayed till the latter part of March.
The electric light installation has been extended to the Physical Observatory, and the Altazimuth Pavilion, and telephone communication between the office rooms in the old and new buildings of the Observatory respectively has been provided by the Post Office.
Provision has been made for an Accumulator House to take the place of the shed in which the accumulators are now placed, and it has been arranged to construct this as a basement on the north-east side of the Physical Observatory, where it will be conveniently placed for connecting with the electric mains.
The annual comparison of books in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, and 7 books are reported missing, besides 6 books which were reported missing last year. Three of the books missing last year have since been found. It is probable that some of the hooks now missing have simply been misplaced, as the shelves are very crowded, the available space being quite inadequate to meet the constant increase in the number of books. A further difficulty is experienced from the inadequate arrangements for warming and ventilating the New Library building (erected in 1881, near the Magnet House), in which it has been found necessary to store the solar and stellar photographs, as well as books and records, pending the completion of the Physical Observatory, which will contain both library rooms and store-rooms. Both books and photographs in the New Library have suffered from damp in the winter months, the damage being very serious in the case of the plates for the Photographic Mapping of the Heavens, many of which have been rendered useless through damage to the gelatine films. It is hoped that before next winter it will be possible to store these valuable photographs in the Physical Observatory, the means of warming this building throughout having at length been provided.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The new Observatory Building which has been in progress since 1891, was completed last March, by the addition of the East and West wings. This handsome building, which has been skilfully designed by Mr. Crisp, under the superintendence of the Director of Works of the Admiralty, provides much needed accommodation for the Observatory Staff, for the photographic records and books of calculations, and for the library, which had long outgrown the rooms hitherto available for it. In the new Observatory Building – which is cruciform in shape, having four wings of three storeys, with a central tower carrying the Thompson Equatorial and Dome – the Staff occupies the principal floor, the library will be placed in the ground floor of the North, East, and West wings, the ground floor of the South wing being fitted up as a workshop, and the upper floor will accommodate the photographic and other records and the stock of publications of the Observatory. Office furniture for the whole building has now been supplied through the Director of Stores, and as regards the library, records, publications, &c. arrangements have been made with Messrs. Lucy & Co. for the supply of their patent adjustable book-stacks to provide the shelf space required.
The new Accumulator House, to take the place of the shed in which the accumulators are now placed, has been built as a basement on the north-west side of the new Observatory Building. It was completed at the end of March.
The electric light installation has been extended to the East and West wings of the new Observatory, and provision has been made for the renewal and enlargement of the accumulators, which will, as soon as practicable, be placed in the new Accumulator House and connected with the dynamo and electric mains.
The annual comparison of books in the Libraries with the catalogue has been made, and 7 books are reported missing, besides 9 books which were reported missing last year. Five of the books missing last year have since been found. It is probable that some of the hooks now missing have simply been misplaced, the shelves being overcrowded. This state of things will, happily, not exist much longer, as the books will shortly be removed to the new rooms on the ground floor of the new Observatory Building, as explained in a previous paragraph. The opportunity will be taken at the time of the removal to re-arrange and re-organize the library, and it is proposed to make a new card catalogue to replace the existing slip catalogue.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 9. General Remarks. The completion of the new Observatory Building, which has been under construction for eight years, allows of the concentration of the greater portion of the staff, together with the photographic records and books of calculations with which they have to deal, all being now placed in one building, with ready means of intercommunication. The Library will also shortly be moved to the same building, where it will be much more readily accessible for reference. When the new arrangements are complete the work will be carried on under much more favourable conditions, but it is only quite recently that any benefit has been felt.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. It is proposed to extend the electric light installation to the Library rooms in the basement of the new Observatory Building.
The book-stacks for the Library in the basement rooms of the new Observatory Building, and for the Record Rooms in the upper floor, were supplied by Messrs. Lucy &, Co. in the course of last year, the work being completed in November. The removal of the books to the new Library rooms was completed in March. This removal has given the opportunity for a re-arrangement of the books, and for the preparation of a new catalogue, both of which were much needed. The new catalogue is in card form, and will be in duplicate, one card catalogue arranged according to the order of the books on the shelves, and the other in alphabetical order of authors' names. The re-arrangement of the books is practically complete, and good progress has been made with the formation of the card catalogue.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as far as practicable, but the books in the West Library (astronomical) cannot be compared with the catalogue till the re-arrangement and re-numbering are completed, and the new card catalogue made. The books in the North Library (transactions, periodicals, &c.) have been compared with the old catalogue as far as possible, and there are two book. which cannot be found. These were missing last year. Of the five books reported missing last year, three have since been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 9. General Remarks. In view of the large additions to and modifications in the instruments and buildings of the Royal Observatory in recent years, it is proposed to prepare a full description of the Observatory, illustrated by photographs, but before this is taken in hand it is advisable that the question of the new boundary fence should be settled.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The extension of the electric light installation to the Library rooms in the basement of the New Observatory was carried out last October.
The work of making new catalogues in duplicate, in card form, of the books in the Libraries is proceeding, but owing to the magnitude of work and to the fact that only a limited amount of time can be spared for it, all the catalogues cannot be completed for some time. In this work preference has been given to the principal or astronomical Library in the west wing. A complete card catalogue has been made of the books in this Library, according to the order of the books on the shelves, and a duplicate card catalogue has been commenced in alphabetical order of authors' names.
The annual examination of the Libraries is being made, the books in the West Library being compared with the new card catalogue, and those in the other two Libraries with the old catalogues, as far as is practicable in the present transition state.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 9. General Remarks. The transfer of books and records to the New Observatory and the rearrangement of the library and record rooms have proved a very heavy piece of work which can only be carried out gradually in the midst of the current duties of the Observatory.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The new card catalogue for the Astronomical Library in the West Wing has been completed for all the bound volumes, including volumes of separate pamphlets, each pamphlet in the latter case being separately indexed. The index cards have been made in duplicate, one set being arranged in the order of the books on the shelves, forming a subject catalogue, and the other in alphabetical order of the authors' names. The cataloguing of the unbound pamphlets will be commenced immediately. It remains to compare the old catalogue for the Astronomical Library, which is divided into twenty different sections, each arranged in alphabetical order of authors' names, with the new Shelf Catalogue, and this will be rather a troublesome matter on account of the large number of pamphlets bound and unbound. For the North Library, containing series of transactions and periodicals, the preparation of a new card catalogue, and comparison with the old catalogue, will be a much simpler matter. In the East Library, devoted to Electricity, Magnetism, and Meteorology, the classified arrangement of the books has been completed, and the card catalogue will now be taken in hand.
The annual examination of the West and North Libraries has been made, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogues. Eight books, including one missing last year, have not yet been found, but further search is being made. Of ten books which were missing last year, nine have since been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official correspondence.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. In the last Report it was stated that the new card catalogue for the Astronomical Library in the West Wing had been completed for all bound volumes, including volumes of separate pamphlets, each pamphlet in the latter case being separately indexed, and that index cards had been made in duplicate, one set being arranged in the order of the hooks on the shelves, to serve as a subject catalogue, and the other in alphabetical order of the authors' names. The old catalogue for the Astronomical Library, which was divided into twenty different sections, each arranged in alphabetical order of authors' names, has been compared with the new card catalogues. A number of discrepancies have been noted, but the great majority of these refer to unbound pamphlets, and will no doubt be explained when the card catalogue of the latter is also compared with the old catalogues.
The card catalogue of the unbound pamphlets has been completed, and a large number of pamphlets have been selected for binding. The others have been entirely re-arranged, and placed in boxes classified according to subject and size.
The preparation of the card catalogue for the East Library (Magnetic and Meteorological) has been taken in hand.
The annual examination of the library has been made, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogues. Search is being made for some books which. are not in their places on the shelves, and not entered in the lending book. Of the eight books missing last year, four have since been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The whole of the New Observatory Building was painted internally last autumn with the exception of the East and West Library Rooms, which remain at present as originally distempered. The Magnet House and the old Record Rooms were also painted internally during the summer.
As reported last year, the re-arranging and cataloguing of the Astronomical Library has been completed, and the new system is now in working order. The North Library (containing the Transactions of Societies and Periodical Literature) is in good order, and has been worked so far with the old Catalogues, but an effort will be made this year to make a new Card Catalogue on the same lines as for the Astronomical Library. As the books are for the most part in long series, the work of making this catalogue will not be so heavy as in the case of the Astronomical Library.
The Alphabetical Card Catalogue of the Magnetical and Meteorological (East) Library has been completed so far as bound volumes are concerned, and the Library is in good order. The binding is much in arrear owing to the large number of unbound contributions which are received, but arrangements are being made to bring the binding up to date this year.
The annual examination of the library has been made, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogues. Twenty books are missing from the shelves and are not entered in the lending book and cannot be traced at present. Of these 20 books, 7 were missing last year. Last year 25 books were missing, but 18 out of these 25 have since been found.
In connection with the examination of the library, it may be remarked that during the painting of the Observatory last year, it was necessary to use the library rooms as computing rooms for a time, and also that, to admit of painting the walls of the North Library, the books had to be removed from the shelves.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. Three new book cases have been supplied and fixed in the South wing of the New Observatory (principal floor). A treble extension ladder for use in the domes and buildings has been purchased.
As regards the Libraries, special attention has been given to the North Library (containing the Transactions of Societies and Periodical Literature). A new Card Catalogue has been made on the same lines as for the Astronomical Library, and a large amount of binding has been carried out. The Magnetic and Meteorological (East) Library is in good order, except for large arrears of binding, arising from the number of unbound contributions received. These arrears can now be dealt with in succession to those of the North Library.
The annual examination of the library has been made, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogues. Three books are missing from the shelves, and are not entered in the lending book, in addition to nine books which were missing last year. Of the 20 books reported as missing last year, 11 have since been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. In the Libraries, special attention has been given to making up arrears of binding, particularly in the East (Magnetic and Meteorological) Library. Some hundreds of volumes of publications have been bound during the year, and a number of old and valuable books which were in a bad state have been carefully repaired and restored, the old binding being retained as far as possible.
A complete card shelf catalogue of the Magnetic and Meteorological Library has now been made, and an author's catalogue is in progress.
The charts, maps, prints, and photographs in the Chart Room have been re-arranged and catalogued.
The annual examination of the Library has been made, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Of the twelve books missing last year three have since been found, and of 12 books missing this year nine were reported as missing in last year's examination.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts, and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the book on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Of the 12 books missing last year two have since been returned, and of 15 books missing this year, 10 were reported as missing last year. As regards the Magnetic and Meteorological Library, no books are missing. Good progress has been made with the Author's Catalogue for this Library, which is completed for 25 bays of the 38 in this Library.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The collection of Portraits (prints and photographs) in the Octagon Room has been reframed where necessary, the old frames being bad state.
A collection of historical and modern astronomical and meteorological instruments, models, chronometers and photographs, representative of the work of the Royal Observatory, has been prepared for the Franco-British Exhibition and is now ready for delivery as soon as arrangements have been made to receive this collection at the Exhibition.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Only two books in the Astronomical Library and one in the Magnetic and Meteorological are missing in addition to fifteen reported last year, of which four have since been returned and two others have been accounted for.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. A collection of historical and modern astronomical and meteorological instruments, models, chronometers, photographs, and diagrams representative of the work of the Royal Observatory was sent to the Franco-British Exhibition on 1908, May 25. The exhibits were returned on November 11.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Only one book (in the Magnetic and Meteorological Library) is missing, in addition to those previously reported. Of the books missing last year, three have since been returned.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Mr Outhwaite acts as responsible accountant officer, has charge of the library, records, manuscripts and stores, and conducts the official and general correspondence. ... Mr. Burkett assists Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. No books have been lost during the year, and the book reported missing from the Magnetic and Meteorological Library last year has since been returned. There remain only 12 books missing; these have been reported every year for several years past, and will now be written off the Catalogue as lost.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Outhwaite | Burkett |
*Lyne |
|
*Qualified as Observer.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The Public Standards of Length fixed to the outside wall of the Observatory, were sent to the Standards Department on December 16 for repair and adjustment. They were returned and remounted on February 9.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Two books are missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Outhwaite | Burkett |
Kilby [joined after 1911 May 10] |
|
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. As the heating arrangements of the chronometer rooms under the Great Equatorial by a stove and of the record room by a hot-air supply were unsatisfactory and had become obsolete, a system of hot-water pipes and radiators was installed.
At the same time the spiral staircase in the record room was removed, and the upper room divided from the lower, a new entrance being made from one of the rooms of the old library. These alterations, which make a substantial addition to the room available for shelves, were completed in March.
The Parliamentary Copy No. 5 of the Imperial Standard Yard and the Parliamentary Copy No. 3 of the 'Standard Pound were removed on September 21 by Officers of the Standards Department of the Board of Trade for decennial reverification, and are at the Standards Department at the date of this report. The Public Standards of Length fixed to the outside wall of the Observatory, repaired and adjusted last year by that Department, are reported to have no sensible error at the normal temperature of 62° Fahrenheit.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Three books are missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present. The two books reported missing last year have since been found.
The Observatory is indebted to Mrs. Story-Maskelyne for a present of a number of Manuscripts by Nevile Maskelyne, as well as of 79 books and pamphlets, dating from 1735 to 1811, which were formerly in his possession.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Outhwaite | Burkett |
Kilby |
|
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. A new iron cupboard was fixed in the lower Record room to house the Parliamentary Copies of the Imperial Standards of Weight and Measure. Additional book-racks have also been fixed in that room.
The Parliamentary Copy No.5 of the Imperial Standard Yard and the Parliamentary Copy No.3 of the Standard Pound, removed on September 21 by Officers of the Standards Department of the Board of Trade for decennial reverification were returned 1912 September 27 and placed in a wrought-iron cupboard specially made to receive them.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Five books are missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including three books reported missing last year.
A valuable collection of magnetic charts from Halley's time to the present has been presented to the Observatory by Captain Creak, R.N.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Outhwaite | Burkett |
Kilby |
|
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Five books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including three books reported missing last year. Two of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
A silver-gilt Inkstand, presented to Sir G. B. Airy in 1852 by the River Dee Company, has been presented to the Royal Observatory by his son, Mr. Osmund Airy [Recorded in the 1911 inventory (RGO6/4/153) as being received on 15 December 1913 as being placed in Case N in the Upper Museum in the New Physical (South) Building, which was still its location when the 1926 inventory (RGO39/5293) was taken]. The Observatory is also indebted to Lady Huggins for a portrait of Sir William, Huggins, and to Sir William Christie for a portrait of himself.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assistant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Outhwaite | Burkett |
Kilby |
|
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Ten books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including four books reported missing last year. One of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite. On the outbreak of war, Mr. Burkett was called out with the London Yeomanry. He has since been given a Commission in the same regiment.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Ten books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including two books reported missing last year. Six of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite. Mr. Burkett holds a Commission in the London Yeomanry and has been absent from the commencement of the war.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Twenty-five books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including five books reported missing last year. Five of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Twenty-six books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including fourteen books reported missing last year. Eleven of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 8. Personal Establishment. Clerical Assitant. – Mr. Outhwaite. ... There are at the present time one lady Computer assisting Mr. Outhwaite and Mr. Bryant. ...
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Fifteen books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including nine books reported missing last year. Seventeen of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
Mr. Outhwaite retired on 1919 May 3, after having carried out his duties of Clerical Assistant with great efficiency for 25 years. He has been succeeded by Mr. Burkett.
| Branch | Established Staff. | |||
| Assistants | Junior Assistants | Temporary Computers | ||
| Clerical | Burkett | *Chamberlain | ||
* Qualified as Observer
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Eighteen books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including eleven books reported missing last year. Three of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
Mr. Burkett left on November 9, to take up an appointment of Staff Clerk at the Air Ministry. He was succeeded by Mr. Edney on February 20.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Kinnear |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. A number of minor repairs to the buildings have been made during the year, including a chimney stack on the Octagon Room, which was considered unsafe and was rebuilt, and a cornice on the roof of the Record Room.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Sixteen books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including twelve books reported missing last year. Six of the books reported missing last year have been returned. Seven books which have been reported missing for several years will be written off the catalogue. They are works of little value.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Twelve books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including five books reported missing last year. Four of the books reported missing last year have been returned. Seven books which have been reported missing for several years have been written off the catalogue. They are works of little value.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The Standard Yard and Pound were taken away 1922 June 7 for decennial comparison by the Deputy Warden of the Standards. They were returned on 1923 April 25, and replaced in their case in the Lower Record Room.
The large number of chronometers and watches which are not being regularly wound and rated have been transferred to the Lower Record Room. Here they are conveniently stored and are practically immune from any risk of fire.
A considerable number of old observing books and books of reductions extending from the years 1835 to 1886 have been destroyed. During this period the observations were printed in such detail in the Greenwich volumes that every figure from the original instrumental readings to the final result is either given or can be readily supplied. A number of bound volumes dealing with internal administration of purely routine character and some formal correspondence relating to chronometer business has also been destroyed. It is proposed to take an early opportunity of cleaning the room, dusting the records and comparing them with the Catalogue made in 1874. The valuable records which were in some danger of being misplaced in the over-crowded state of the room will be more accessible and at the same time less likely to be lost.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual, the books on the shelves being compared with the catalogue. Eight books are reported missing from the shelves and cannot be accounted for at present, including six books reported missing last year. Six of the books reported missing last year have been returned.
Further shelving accommodation has been obtained for the North Library, where Transactions and Proceedings of Societies and periodical Astronomical Literature are kept. Approximately a run of 250 feet of adjustable steel shelving has been added to the existing bays. To the East Library, which contains Magnetic and Meteorological Works, both books and serials, about 224 feet of adjustable steel shelving has been added.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The Record room was cleaned and redecorated in the autumn.
The re-arrangement of the record room has been carried out, and the formation of a new catalogue will be taken in hand at the first opportunity.
The annual examination of the Library has been made as usual. Twelve books are reported missing, and cannot be accounted for at present, including six books reported missing last year. Two of the books missing last year have been found.
Additional shelving has been obtained for the West Library in which observatory publications and general astronomical books are kept. A run of about 150 feet of adjustable steel shelving has been obtained. This will meet immediate needs. There is room for another 100 feet and this will be added as required.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. Mr. Wilfred Airy has kindly given to the Observator a large Sèvres vase presented to Sir George Airy by the Commission Internationale du Mètre in 1872. It is placed where it formerly stood – near the entrance to the Octagon Room. [Now part of the collections of the National Maritime Museum. Object ID ZBA1719.] He has also enriched the Library by a gift of Airy's collected papers, bound in fourteen volumes.
A new catalogue of the Record Room has been made to correspond with the re-arrangement of the Records made last year.
The annual examination of the Library has been made. Eight books are reported missing, and cannot be accounted for at present, including eight reported last year. None of the books missing last year have been found. Four books which have been missing for five years have been written off as permanently lost.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. cannot be accounted for at present, including six reported last year. Two of the books missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Nine books are reported missing, and cannot be accounted for at present, including six reported last year. Six of the books missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Cox |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Twelve books are reported missing, and cannot be accounted for at present, including five reported last year. Three of the books missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Daily |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Thirteen books are reported missing, and cannot be accounted for at present, including nine reported last year. Three of the books missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Dennis |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The South Attic has been converted into an observing room for the Spectrohelioscope. This room also contains a Spectrophotometer, a small Spectrograph and an enlarging Camera. The book shelves which were originally in the room were moved into the West Attic and North Library. [The three rooms mentioned were all in the New Physical Building (South Building)]
The annual examination of the Library has been made. Twelve books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present, including nine reported last year. Four of the books missing last year have been found. Four books which have been missing for a number of years are now assumed lost and have been written off.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Dennis |
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Five books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present. These were missing last year. Three of the books missing last year have been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Dennis |
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The room adjoining the Upper record room has been greatly improved by the removal of a large obstruction in the centre of the room which contained three disused chimney flues, and by the addition of a window in the roof. The room has been fitted up for the reception of wireless signals. The smaller room formerly used for this purpose has been repainted and converted into a store for stationery.
The annual examination of the Library has been made. Five books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present. These were missing last year.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Mr. Dennis |
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The restoration of Harrison's Time Machine No. 1, referred to in last year's Report, has been completed. The machine was returned in going order on February 3 together with a complete set of drawings, prepared by Commander Gould, on which all repaired parts, replacements and modified winding apparatus are distinctly marked for future guidance. In connection with the restoration of the mechanism Messrs. T. and F. Mercer, of St. Albans, very generously, at appreciable cost to themselves, rendered valuable assistance in making and supplying the special set of balance springs required and in carrying out Commander Gould's design for winding the machine.
The annual examination of the Library has been made. Thirteen books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present, including four reported missing last year. One of the books missing last year has since been found.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Miss Brickman |
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Thirteen books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present. Of these, nine were reported missing last year and three books, which have been missing for a number of years, are now assumed lost and have been written off. Four books which were missing last year have since been returned.
Section 8. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Miss Brickman |
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Library has been made. Nine books are reported missing and cannot be accounted for at present. Of these,seven were reported missing last year, and two books, which have been missing for a number of years, are now assumed lost and have now been written off. Three books which were missing last year have since been returned.
Section 9. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Miss Brickman |
Section 10. General Remarks. Two pen and ink drawings of the Royal Observatory, made by Gasselin in 1699, have been presented to the Observatory by the Right Rev. J. H. Greig, late Lord Bishop of Guildford. These drawings, made 24 years after the foundation of the Observatory, are earlier in date than any other known drawings or prints of the Observatory. [According to the 1933 inventory to which they were added (RGO39/6/259–260), they were views of the Observatory from the North and the East, dated September 1699, acquired on 5 October 1934 and hung on the walls of the Astronomer Royal's Room in the New Physical Building (the South Building).]
The original manuscript of the observations of Flamsteed, first Astronomer Royal, which was deposited, sealed up, in 1706 by Flamsteed with Sir Isaac Newton, has been presented to the Observatory by the Radcliffe Trustees [RGO1/74]. The manuscript contains the alterations and emendations made by Halley and, as thus altered, was published in 1711 without Flamsteed's authority. In 1715 Flamsteed obtained possession of all the copies then remaining of this unauthorised publication and committed them to the flames.
The Radcliffe Trustees have also presented a manuscript volume of observations made by Bliss at Oxford during the time when he was Astronomer Royal [RGO3/45?].
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. A new sectional boiler has been installed, for heating the chronometer store, wireless room and record room.
The annual examination of the Library has been made. Thirteen books are missing and cannot be traced as present. Of these, seven were reported missing last year.
Section 9. Personal Establishment.
| Branch | Established Staff | Unestablished Staff | |
| Secretariat and Library | Mr. Edney, Mr. Chamberlain | Miss Brickman |
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. With the increased junior staff at the Nautical Almanac Office and the proposals for the general increase of permanent and temporary staff to provide for the additional annual and temporary work recently undertaken for the Admiralty and the Air Ministry, further accommodation became essential. In October, the Admiral President of the Royal Naval College placed three additional rooms at the disposal of the Office, which were immediately furnished and put into use ; pending the final decision as to the complement required for the extra work, consideration of the question of the future permanent accommodation of the Office has been deferred.
The extra accommodation made possible the redistribution of the staff, with the almost complete separation of mechanical and non-mechanical work, and has also allowed more space for the display of the books in the Nautical Almanac Office library. A card catalogue of these books, which has been urgently desired for many years and has now been made possible, is in preparation.
The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Fifteen books are missing and cannot be traced as present. Of these, eleven were reported missing last year, and two which have been missing for a number of years have now been written off. One book which has been missing for a number of years has been replaced.
Section 10. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement of the Observatory Staff under the general superintendence of the Chief Assistants is as follows:– ... Secretariat and Library[:] Mr. Barker [Secretary and Casheier], Mr. Chamberlain [Junior Assistant], Miss Brickman [Established Typist].
Mr. D. J. R. Edney retired on July 19. He had been at the Observatory for nearly 45 years of which over 40 were passed in established service. Since 1920 he had performed the duties of secretary and cashier to the Observatory. He has been succeeded by Mr. H. G. Barker.
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Sixeen books are missing and cannot be traced as present. Of these, eleven were reported missing last year, and two which have been missing for a number of years have now been written off. Two books which were missing last year have since been returned and re-entered in the catalogue.
Section 10. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement of the Observatory Staff under the general superintendence of the Chief Assistants is as follows:– ... Secretariat and Library[:] Mr. Barker, Mr. Chamberlain, Miss Brickman.
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Fourteen books are missing and cannot be traced as present. Of these, eleven were reported missing last year, one of which has been missing for a number of years and has now been written off. Three books which were missing last year have since been found and re-entered in the catalogue.
Section 10. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement of the Observatory Staff under the general superintendence of the Chief Assistants is as follows:– ... Secretariat and Library[:] Mr. Barker, Mr. Chamberlain, Miss Brickman, Miss Cackett.
The Report here presented refers to the period from 1939 May I to 1940 April 30 and exhibits the state of the Observatory on the last-named day.
Section 2. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. A considerable amount of time has been spent on Passive Defence Work. The 28-inch and 26-inch object glasses have been dismounted and removed to a place of safety. Steps have been taken to protect the Flamsteed manuscripts and other valuable books and records. Suitable refuges for the staff have been prepared.
The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Seventeen books are missing and cannot be traced as present. Of these, fourteen were reported missing last year, one of which has been missing for a number of years and has now been written off.
The Binding Department of H. M. Stationery Office at the British Museum have kindly consented to renovate, and rebind where necessary, about 190 valuable and rare books belonging to the Observatory Library. 100 have been completed and returned, and the remainder are still in their hands. The condition and value of these volumes has been greatly enhanced by this expert treatment, and a suitable glass-fronted mahogany bookcase has been acquired for the purpose of housing these books when normal conditions return.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement of the Observatory Staff under the general superintendence of the Chief Assistants is as follows:– ... Secretariat and Library[:] Mr. Barker, Mr. Miller [Clerical Officer], Miss Brickman, Miss Cackett.
Mr. W. Stevens, Junior Assistant, Higher Grade, acting as Assistant-in-charge of the Magnetic Observatory at Abinger, retired on 17th July after 44 years service on the Royal Observatory staff. Mr. Stevens was appointed Assistant-in-Charge at Abinger when the magnetic observations were transferred from Greenwich to Abinger in 1923, in consequence of the electrification of the surburban railway lines in the vicinity of the Observatory. … His place has been filled by the promotion of Mr. E. A. Chamberlain.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Seventeen books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, nine were reported missing last year. Eight books which were reported last year as missing have since been recovered.
The renovation and rebinding, by the Binding Department of H.M. Stationary Office, of about 190 valuable and rare books belonging to the Observatory Library has now been completed.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. The present arrangement of the Observatory Staff under the general superintendence of the Chief Assistants is as follows:– ... Secretariat and Library[:] Mr. Barker, Mr. Miller, Miss Cackett, Miss Westcott.
The renovation and rebinding of about 190 valuable and rare astronomical books belonging to the Observatory Library was undertaken by the Binding Department of H.M. Stationary Office, at the British Museum. The skill and care with which this work was carried out is much appreciated. These books, together with the early records of the Observatory and Minutes of the Board of Longitude, have been sent away from Greenwich for safety.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Eighteen books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, thirteen were reported missing last year. Four books which were reported last year as missing have since been recovered.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. Fifteen books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, fourteen were reported missing last year. Four books which were reported last year as missing have since been recovered.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. No further damage by enemy action has been sustained during the year. Plate glass is being restored to windows broken in 1940, belonging to parts of the Main Building. Re-labelling of books in the Library has been continued throughout the year.
The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. 20 books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, 15 were reported missing last year.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. 21 books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, 17 were reported missing last year.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. The annual examination of the Observatory Library has been made. 19 books are missing and cannot be traced at present. Of these, 16 were reported missing last year. 5 books which were missing last year have now been located.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Buildings and Grounds, Moveable property and Library. Owing to shortage of staff and pressure of immediate work it has not been possible to conduct the annual examination of the Observatory Library before the close of the year. The Admiralty has now approved the appointment of a full time Librarian, to cope with the formidable task of re-organization, re-indexing and physical removal of the library to the new site, and it is hoped that an appointment will shortly be made. The first task will then be to complete the annual stocktaking.
The Library has suffered badly in recent years from the errects [effects] of war damage and cramped space, and removal to Herstmonceux will afford a welcome opportunity for it to be expanded and re-arranged on a permanently satisfactory basis.
Section 6. Chronometers. Commander Gould has generously presented to the Observatory fourteen manuscripts and notebooks compiled whilst he was engaged on the restoration and maintenance of the machines [the Harrison timepieces] between 1921 and 1939. [The papers, which were presumably transfered from the control of the Observatory to the Ministry of Defence as part of the reorganisation that took place in 1965. They (all of them?) were deposited on loan at the National Maritime Musuem in 1979 by the Chronometer Section, Hydrographic Department, Herstmonceux and transferred to the Museum in 2017 (NMM Catalogue reference GOU).]
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. (a) Greenwich. War damage repairs to the Altazimuth Building know serving a Small Transit Pavilion) have been completed, and a new roof has been placed over the Upper Record Room. ... There is still a good deal of glass to be replaced in the Main Building [Chrisitie's New Physical Building], particularly in the West Library, where the books are suffering from dirt and damp, and some structural damage has yet to be repaired.
(c) Herstmonceux. Conversion work in the Castle and huts is proceeding, and it is expected that "Stage I" of the move will take place in August, ... Work on the chronometer rating rooms, in the Castle, has had to be postponed, because of alterations required in the Great Hall, immediately above them; the Hall is to serve as the Observatory Library, and it will be necessary to reconstruct the floor with steel supports before it can sustain the weight of books involved. A gallery is to be built along one side of the Great Hall, to carry additional book-stacks.
Section 2. Instruments, Apparatus, and Library. The annual examination of the Library is in progress. The appointment of a Librarian, which was approved by the Admiralty (as mentioned in last year's Report), has not yet been made, owing to the difficulty in deciding the rate of remuneration and to the fact that, as is becoming increasingly plain, the proposed scale and standing cannot in any case attract a person the required scientific and educational qualifications. The condition of the Library is highly unsatisfactory at present, as the existing staff cannot be spared for the necessary periods; but even if this were not so the Observatory definitely requires a Librarian considerably more qualifications than can be expected from a Clerical Officer who has had a few weeks' course in librarianship. It is to be hoped that the position may be reconsidered at a suitable level. A start has been made in dealing with the heavy arrears of binding.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Secretary and Cahshier – H.G. Barker.
Section 11. The actual output of the Observatory is thus much reduced at present; and, apart from this, the situation which will hold from the end of Stage 1 until completion the move [to Herstmonceux] will be gravely disadvantageous in other ways. The Observatory will be divided between Greenwich, Abinger and Herstmonceux, so that only one of the three branches will have ready access to the Library, and the facilities of the Workshop will also be available only in a very limited and unsatisfactory degree; this will be true; no matter when the Library and Workshop themselves actually move.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. Reconstruction of the floor of the Great Hall, to enable it to carry the weight of books, is nearly complete, and the chronometer rooms, darkroom, and other quarters below it have been progressed. It is hoped to transfer the chronometers and watches from their present temporary quarters fairly soon, so that the rooms at present occupied by them may also be adapted for their permanent purpose.
Section 2. Instruments, Apparatus, and Library. Full checking of the Library has not been possible in recent years, owing to increasing shortage of staff. With the appointment of a Librarian to the staff of the Observatory, the situation is much more satisfactory, and a full check is in progress. It appears that the number of books missing is somewhat greater than in pre-war years, when an annual check was made, but not seriously so. The process of tracing missing volumes has only just begun, and it is expected that several will still be recovered.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Authority was also received during the year for the temporary bearing of a trained Librarian and the post was filled on 1949 February 3 by the appointment of Mr. W. P. Preston. It is understood that the appointment will in any case cover the full period of the reorganization caused by moving the library to Herstmonceux and that the situation will thereafter be reviewed. [The later reports show that Preston remained on the staff as part of the Secretariat, and appears to have become permanent at the grade of Executive Officer in the reporting year 1958. According to Wilkins, he resigned in 1965.]
Section 11. General. The appointment of a qualified Librarian to the staff will make it possible for the heavy arrears of library work to be attended to, and for the problems incidental to moving the library from Greenwich to Herstmonceux to be dealt with. Binding is heavily in arrears, tracts and excerpts require to be sorted and arranged according to subjects; new shelf, subject, and author catalogues will be needed, The reorganization of the library will provide opportunity for books that have no further value to be discarded and for obvious gaps to be filled.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The Great Hall of the Castle is being adapted as the Library. The steelwork for supporting the gallery is now complete, and the layout of the bookshelves has been determined. The most suitable method of lighting the Library is under consideration.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian [:] W.P. Preston.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The adaptation of the Great Hall of the Castle as a library is nearly complete. The constructional work and the decorations have been completed; cork tiles have been laid on the floor, including the gallery floor, and hot water radiators have been installed. The lighting installation is under consideration. Tenders for the supply of shelving will soon be invited.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian [:] W.P. Preston.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The adaptation of the Great Hall of the Castle as a library has been completed, except for the lighting, the installation of which is in progress. The main entrance doorway has been reconstructed and new doors have been provided. The shelving for the books has been constructed and erected by Messrs. Libraco Ltd., who have also supplied card catalogues and other accessories. The large oak table from the Octagon Room at Greenwich has been brought to Herstmonceux and placed in the library for the display of current periodicals and publications. The removal of the library books from Greenwich to Herstmonceux has commenced.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian [:] W.P. Preston.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. A temporary loan is being made to the Maritime Museum of some of the important old manuscripts in the Observatory's possession, for showing in the Octagon Room, which is to be formally opened by H.R.H. the Duke of Edinburgh on May 8th.
The removal of books from the Library to Herstmonceux, which is being carried out by the Workshop staff, is now nearing completion; about 24,000 volumes have been transported and placed in the new library there. Some of the shelving from Greenwich has been transferred to the huts at Herstmonceux, and will be used for storing some of the contents of the Greenwich Record Rooms.
The lighting of the Great Hall of the Castle, which has been adapted as a library, has been completed except for the reading lamps on the tables. Strip lights have been fitted in each bay between the book stacks under the gallery, and along both sides of each row of stacks in the gallery. Three specially designed fittings provide general illumination. The books brought from Greenwich have been arranged in the library, but not all are as yet in their final places.
Section 2. Instruments, Apparatus, and Library. It is expected that the removal of the library from Greenwich to Herstmonceux will be completed by the end of July. The removal has provided an opportunity to discard many volumes of meteorologlcal observations, for which the Observatory has no use.
It has not been practicable to take stock of the contents of the library this year, and the usual figures relating to missing books are therefore not available, A complete stocktaking will, however, take place in connection with the rearrangement and recataloguing of the library which will be begun as soon as the move is complete.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian [:] W.P. Preston.
The Report here presented refers to the period from 1953 May 1 to 1954 April 30 and exhibits the state of the Observatory on the last named day.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. The Octagon Room, which had been handed over to the National Maritime Museum as described in last year's Report, was formally opened by H. R. H. the Duke of Edinburgh on May 8. It has been accessible to the public at regular Museum hours, warders being provided by the Museum. Halley's Transit and Bradley's Zenith Sector are displayed in this room, together with copies of various old prints of the Observatory. Some important old manuscripts in the possession of the Observatory were exhibited for most of the year. The Airy Transit Circle has been shown to visitors, subject to not being in use for observation at the time.
A new boiler has been installed for heating the Record Rooms and Time Department Office.
Section 2. Instruments, Apparatus, and Library. The removal of the Library from Greenwich to Herstmonceux was completed in August, 1953, with the exception of the collection of rare books for which a suitable bookcase is being made. It is, however, expected that this collection will be at Herstmonceux within the next few weeks.
The recataloguing and re-arrangement of the Library has been begun, and, in connexion with this work, a complete check of the book stock is being made.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian as Temporary Assistant [:] W.P. Preston.
Section 1. Grounds and Buildings. A further quantity of library shelving was removed from Greenwich and erected in a temporary hut at Herstmonceux, for record storage.
Section 2. Instruments, Apparatus, and Library. The removal of the Library from Greenwich [to Herstmonceux] was completed in July 1954.
The cataloguing of the Library is being proceeded with as quickly as circumstances permit. In addition to an author catalogue, a subject catalogue arranged by Universal Decimal Classification and a new shelf list are being prepared.
Plans for the re-arrangement of the books in classified order are complete and H.M. Stationery Office will send a binder to Herstmonceux to stamp the new class numbers in gold lettering on the spines of the books. It is expected that the binder will commence this work in early April.
In connexion with the work of cataloguing, a check of the contents of the Library is being made. When it is complete, a report on the number of books missing will be submitted.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian (Temporary Assistant) [:] W.P. Preston.
Section 9. Personal Establishment. Librarian (Temporary Assistant) [:] W.P. Preston.
[There is no mention of the Library or Archives in this report]
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers. ... Preston, W.P. (Librarian).
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers. ... Preston, W.P. (Librarian).
Preamble. In compliance with the Public Record Act, 1958, a catalogue has been prepared of all Royal Greenwich Observatory manuscripts for the period 1675–1881.
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers. ... Preston, W.P. (Librarian).
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers. ... Preston, W.P. (Librarian).
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers[:] ... Preston, W.P. (Librarian).
Section 1. External Relations. The Lord Chancellor has exercised his powers under the Public Records Act, 1958 to designate the Royal Greenwich Observatory as the official repository of its own records and of those of the Cape Observatory. The Greenwich records from 1675 to 1881 have been arranged by régime and listed in the form prescribed by the Public Record Office. This work is being extended to 1910, and the Cape records will then be similarly dealt with. This unique collection covering the whole history of the oldest scientific establishment in the U.K. will then be available for the first time to students of the history of science.
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers[:] ... W.P. Preston (Librarian).
Staff List. Secretariat: ... Executive Officers[:] ... W.P. Preston (Librarian).
[There is no mention of the Library or Archives in these 3 reports.]
General. A start has been made on the microfilming of Royal Greenwich Observatory archives by the Public Record Office. The papers and observation books of the first four Astronomers Royal (1675–1765) have been completed.
General. Microfilm copies of the Royal Observatory records covering the period from Flamsteed to Bradley have been received from the Public Record Office. It is hoped to continue microfilming of the records in the near future.
[There is no mention of the Library and Archives in these 4 reports.]
RGO Archives. The RGO Archives are scheduled under the Public Record Act 1958 as documents of national importance, and are administered under the Act. The Archives Room is a Repository of the Public Record Office and inspected annually. History of science researchers are permitted to examine the manuscripts by appointment. Twelve such historians were assisted during the year by the Archivist, Mr. P.S. Laurie. Approximately 100 enquiries by correspondence were dealt with and copies of material supplied when possible on a reciprocal exchange or prepayment basis.
The papers of the first four Astronomers Royal and the Board of Longitude have already been microfilmed, and the recent provision of a recorder/printer should much improve facilities. However, a very substantial amount of material has still to be catalogued and microfilmed.
Libraries. The RGO Library, supervised by Miss J. E. Perry, now contains over 20,000 volumes covering most branches of astronomy and many other subjects of relevance to the work of the Observatory. Subscriptions are current for 137 journals, and material is exchanged with observatories and institutions in all parts of the world; 126 text books were purchased during the year.
The separate and smaller library of HM Nautical Almanac Office contains more specialized material, but has been expanded in recent years to cover a wider range of current astronomical text books and journals. Dr. G. A. Wilkins, who supervises the NAO Library, has continued to assist in the revision of the Universal Decimal Classification scheme for astronomy (UDC 52).
Staff List. Miscellaneous.
Library and Archives
SSO (Archivist): P.S. Laurie
EO (Librarian and Editor): Miss J.E. Perry
CO (Library): Mrs. S.A. Hartley
[SSO = Senior Scientific Scientific Officer, EO = Executive Officer, CO = Clerical Officer]
Due to the Tercentenary there was an expected increase in public enquiries (approximately 140 letters) received by the Archivist, Mr. P.S. Laurie, and some dozen historical researchers were given facilities and assistance on visits to examine the archives.
Close collaboration continues with the National Maritime Museum (NMM) on the subject of further microfilming or RGO archives. With Public Record Office (PRO) agreement, a section on chronometers (46 volumes) has been temporarily transferred for this to be carried out.
Late 19th century and early 20th century papers are being rearranged and addition material incorporated in the archives.
At the suggestion of the PRO, a complete set of Royal Observatory publications (from late 18th century to date) is in process of being transferred from store to the archives.
Laurie and Mr. D.A. Calvert (Senior Photographer), in consultation with Lt.-Cdr. H.D. Howse (NMM) have arranged the RGO Photographic Archives under broad headings; they will be catalogued under the system used at NMM.
The work on rearranging and recording the RGO library's holding of publications received from other institutions and of periodicals, has continued under the supervision of the Librarian, Miss J. E. Perry.
Including the Library of HM Nautical Almanac Office, a total of 30,000 volumes is now held, in addition to reprints and unbound parts of current journals. Nearly 150 Journals are obtained regularly, and 150 books were acquired during the nine months under review. The publications of observatories and ephemeris offices throughout the world continue to be obtained in exchange for RGO publications and those of HM Nautical Almanac Office.
Staff List. Miscellaneous.
Library and Archives
SSO (Archivist): P.S. Laurie, MBE, FRAS
EO (Librarian and Editor): Miss J.E. Perry
CO (Library): Mrs. S.A. Hartley
[SSO = Senior Scientific Scientific Officer, EO = Executive Officer, CO = Clerical Officer]
During the first few weeks of 1976 the RGO Archives were removed from a basement area of the West Building (which they shared with stocks of RGO publications, and where there were no "office" facilities) to more convenient rooms in Herstmonceux Castle, near the main RGO library. Much of the year's work of the Archivist, Mr. P. S. Laurie, was taken up in preparations for this move, and in consequential organization of material. The opportunity was taken to incorporate a complete set of RGO publications to date in the archives. Some progress has been made by Mr. D. A. Calvert in the assembly and listing of the photographic archives.
Laurie provided historical material for the commentary of the film A Crowning Achievement, commissioned by the National Maritime Museum. The film features the reinauguration of the 28-inch refractor and the installation of a new Onion Dome-a replica of the original which was destroyed during the Second World War-at the Old Royal Observatory, Greenwich.
The archives were examined during the year on twelve occasions, the principal researchers being Capt. C. Cotter (UWIST, Cardiff), Professor J. Stock (University of Connecticut), Miss T. Hitchens (Imperial College, London) and Professor B. Warner (University of Cape Town). Correspondence received and dealt with amounted to 193 letters on a wide range of related subjects.
The need for economy has restricted the number of books ordered by both the RGO Library and the Library of HM Nautical Almanac Office. Subscriptions to several periodicals and "fringe" journals have been cancelled. Publications from other observatories and institutions continue to be received on an exchange basis.
The RGO Library has been used extensively by staff, visiting observers and students from the Astronomy Centre of the University of Sussex. Rearrangement, consequent upon the need to provide more shelf space for rapidly expanding sections, has continued under the supervision of the Librarian, Miss J. E. Perry.
Dr. G. A. Wilkins, in collaboration with Mr. D. A. Kemp (University of Newcastle), completed a draft copy of a handbook on the use of the revised schedules for Astronomy (Section 52) in the Universal Decimal Classification scheme; this received an encouraging response when presented informally at the IAU General Assembly at Grenoble in August. The revised schedule is being introduced into the subject index of the NAO Library.
Staff List. Miscellaneous.
Library and Archives
Archivist (SSO): P.S. Laurie, OBE, FRAS
Librarian and Editor (EO): Miss J.E. Perry
CO: Mrs. S.A. Hartley
[SSO = Senior Scientific Scientific Officer, EO = Executive Officer, CO = Clerical Officer]
For historical reasons the RGO and NAO libraries have in the past been administered as separate units With the retirement of the RGO Archivist in 1977 May the opportunity was taken to group all these activities together in order to provide a better service and greater flexibility in the deployment of staff Dr G A Wilkins has acted as head of the Libraries and Archives Department pending the appointment of a Librarian and Archivist.
Libraries. In 1977 January a specialized collection of about 2500 items was transferred to the library of the Institute of Geological Sciences at Edinburgh as a consequence of the move of the Geomagnetism Unit of IGS from Herstmonceux (see page 6). Much of this collection had been acquired prior to 1967 by the RGO Magnetic and Meteorological Department. Full records of the transfer have been retained. Special attention has been given to the indexing and re-shelving of current periodicals and the publications of observatories and other institutions in the main library (Castle). The reserve stock of similar material in the NAO library (West Building) has also been carefully checked and weeded. The subscription list for periodicals has been pruned and the number of books purchased has been reduced in an endeavour to keep expenditure roughly constant while prices continue to rise quickly. Duplication between the main library and the NAO library has been reduced to an essential minimum.
Archives. The task of indexing and labelling archival material continued until Mr P.S. Laurie (RGO Archivist) retired on 4 May. Since then he has been employed as a consultant for one day each week and has been primarily concerned with answering enquiries and assisting visitors. During the year 27 visitors spent periods of between one day and two months examining documents in the archives and about 150 enquiries by visitors, letter and telephone have been answered.
Staff List. Amanacs and Time Division. Head (SPSO): G.A. Wilkins, BSc (Maths) BSc (Phys), PhD, ARCS, DIC, FRAS
Library and Archives Department:
Acting Head (SPSO): G.A. Wilkins, BSc (Maths) BSc (Phys), PhD, ARCS, DIC, FRAS
EO: Miss J.E. Perry
CO: p/t Mrs V. Bacon, BA, Miss E.J. Oversby
Consultant p/t P.S. Laurie, OBE, FRAS
[SPSO = Senior Principal Scientific Officer, EO = Executive Officer, CO = Clerical Officer, p/t = part-time employee]
Organization. During the first half of the year. the libraries and archives were operated under the day-to-day supervision of Perry. Laurie was employed as a part-time consultant until March 31 to assist in answering archival enquiries. Since February 4, the work has been supervised for the first time by a professionally qualified librarian. Much of Dudley's time has been spent in reviewing the content and state of the libraries and archives and in planning the changes that will be required to provide better services for both staff and visitors, to ensure that the rate of deterioration in the physical state of the older material is reduced to acceptable levels, and to institute systems for the management of modern records.
Libraries. In order to move the focus of the day-to-day operation of the library services into the main library itself, a counter was designed and built, enclosing a working area for the library staff. The tasks of cataloguing, classifying, weeding and, where necessary, rebinding book stock have been started. Some of the older books have been transferred from the open shelves to the rare-book collection which is being rehoused in a separate secure room.
Archives. A report has been prepared on the state of the archives. Discussions an consultations have been held with staff of the Public Record Office and others, and proposals for future action have been put forward. Some papers of the late Professor Redman of the University of Cambridge were received at the end of September; they concern such matters as the planning of the Angle-Australian Telescope and of the Northern Hemisphere Observatory. The microfilming of the Airy papers has been started by the Public
Assistance was given to 25 persons, some from overseas, who came to the Castle to study the archives, often for several days. Over 60 postal enquiries and many telephone enquiries were answered. Amongst the subjects researched were the correspondence between Flamsteed and Sir Jonas Moore, the life of Mrs. Janet Tayler who was an acknowledged nineteenth-century expert on the correction of compasses, Sir John Herschel, the early history of photography, William Dawes and the establishment of the Port Jackson Observatory, the Bidston Observatory, and references to Jeremiah Horrocks in the Flamsteed papers.
A team from the Picture Restoration Department of the National Maritime Museum examined and reported on all the RGO pictures and prints. They carried out some conservation work on the premises and will continue more specialized remedial action at Greenwich, particularly on the prints.
Staff List. Amanacs and Time Division. Head (SPSO): G.A. Wilkins, BSc (Maths) BSc (Phys), PhD, ARCS, DIC, FRAS
Library and Archives Department:
Head (Librarian): Miss J. Dudley
EO: Miss J.E. Perry
CO: p/t Mrs V. Bacon, BA, Mrs J.M. Foreman, Mrs C.S. Woolmer
[SPSO = Senior Principal Scientific Officer, EO = Executive Officer, CO = Clerical Officer, p/t = part-time employee]
Libraries. All books published prior to 1800 were weeded from the open shelves, as were any publications of which similar or earlier editions were reported as having been sold at auction. All these plus the original rare-book collection are being catalogued und described by Miss B. J. Tilley, a sandwich student from Birmingham School of Librarianship. Much of the pre-1939 scientific stock was also moved from the ground floor of the Castle to clear space for the rearrangement of the periodical collection. The cataloguing and classification of the more modern books continues. Trials, using the link to the IBM 360/ 195 computer at RL, were completed on the Famulus suite of programs and work was commenced on building a computer-held file. A catalogue of periodicals and observatory publications is being compiled. The collection of modern 35-rnm transparencies has been reorganized and a computer-produced KWIC index is being prepared.
Archives. The question of the future of the RGO Archives has been resolved and proper facilities for storage and conservation are to be provided. A new complement post was created for a Senior Conservation Officer. A calender (a detailed list of the contents) of the Flamsteed papers was started by Miss F. Willmoth, a summer vacation student. Assistance was given to 18 visitors, some from overseas and some of whom stayed for several days or weeks. Over 80 postal enquiries were answered.
The first 30 volumes of the Airy papers were microfilmed (12 reels, 1296 frames); in many cases the microfilms are clearer than the originals.
Staff List. Amanacs and Time Division. Head (SPSO): G.A. Wilkins, BSc (Maths) BSc (Phys), PhD, ARCS, DIC
Library and Archives Department:
Head (Librarian): Miss J. Dudley
Assit Lib: D.Clark
CO: p/t Mrs C.S. Woolmer
[SPSO = Senior Principal Scientific Officer, CO = Clerical Officer, p/t = part-time employee]
Libraries. The cataloguing of the modern book collection (some 19th and all 20th century titles) is almost complete; work has concentrated on this task at the expense of input to the IBM 360/195 at RL, although a small file has been formed to test the suitability of the Famulus suite of programs for our applications. The majority of the rare-book collection has also been catalogued by a sandwich student from the Birmingham School of Librarianship. The Collection has been enlarged since the cataloguing exercise started, mainly as a result of weeding the West Building Library stock. The periodicals in the West Building and Castle Libraries have been reorganized to provide for the astrophysicists now working in the West Building. Some transfers of monograph material remain to be done. The indexing of the periodical collection continues. All the current commercial titles have been carded, together with some dead runs. A start has been made on the observatory publications although progress here will be slower because of their complex publication pattern. The slide collection has been assembled and a computer-produced KWIC index to some 1,700 accessions is now available.
Archives. A Senior Conservation Officer, [A.R.] Bish, was appointed in January. Much of his time has been spent assessing RGO's needs and ordering equipment and supplies for a conservation laboratory. Work involving chemicals is severely restricted by the lack of a fume cupboard but it has been possible to do some repair and conservation work. Remedial binding of the rare-book collection continues to be done by an outside craftsman. The calendar of Flamsteed papers is progressing well. 60 of the 76 pieces have been dealt with. The organization of the more modern (19th and 20th century) records has begun now that the Deep Store in the West Building has been equipped with mobile racking. Work in this area is, however, being severely restricted by lack of available effort.
Assistance was given to 17 visitors, some from overseas and some of whom stayed for several days or weeks. Over 140 postal enquiries were answered. 164 pieces of the Airy papers have now been microfilmed (102 reels (10,237 frames).
Staff List. Amanacs and Time Division. Head (SPSO): G.A. Wilkins, BSc, PhD, ARCS, DIC, FRIN
Library and Archives Department:
Head (Librarian): Miss J. Dudley
SCO: A.R. Bish
Assit Lib: D.Clark, BA, ALA
CO: Miss F.J. Cowtan, p/t Mrs S.E. Walker
[SPSO = Senior Principal Scientific Officer, SCO = Senior Consrvation Officer, CO = Clerical Officer, p/t = part-time employee]
Library & Archives. [The three illustrations and captions that accompanied this report have been omitted here.]
The Library and Archives collections of the RGO are the most complete single source available for scholars, both for the current state of the art in astronomy, astrophysics and related subjects and for the history of those subjects. They are also a primary source in the history of science and, to a lesser extent, technology.
They consist of the contemporary publications available on two sites at Herstmonceux (the Castle and West Libraries) and the John Whelan Library of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory on La Palma; the nineteenth-century printed material; the Airy Collection of Rare Books; the Archive collection of manuscripts relating to the history of the Observatory; the modern records, consisting primarily of post-World War II papers; the deposited archival collections of papers relating to, but not originated by, the Observatory and the collections of museum objects, three-dimensional archives and works of art.
Administratively, Library and Archives are part of Almanacs and Time Division, reporting through the Superintendent of the Nautical Almanac Office to the Director. The collections are available as a reference source to all members of the RGO and visiting staff and students, to the staff and students of the Astronomy Centre at Sussex University and other similar departments, to all Fellows of the Royal Astronomical Society and to other bona fide researchers on request. It is in fact true that all of the collections, with the exception of the contemporary publications, are used more by researchers not directly employed by SERC and this is particularly so of the Archives and the Airy Collection.
It was not until the late 1970s that any concerted attempt was made to introduce systematic cataloguing, indexing and arrangement to any of these collections and the sheer size of the problem has made progress somewhat slow. However, the results of the efforts made over the last six years are now becoming apparent.
In the Library, all of the twentieth- and the more used of the nineteenth-century publications have been catalogued, classified by UDC and rearranged on the shelves. The catalogue information is now being entered onto a computer data base. A short-title catalogue of the Whelan Library is already available, as is an interim card catalogue to the Herstmonceux collections. The periodicals catalogue is being put onto computer at RO E as part of a union list of UK holdings of astronomical serials. The Airy Collection of Rare Books is now housed in the Castle Chapel All the titles in this collection have now been catalogued with a full bibliographic description. Thus far it exists in manuscript only but there are long term plans to publish it, possibly as a microfilm edition.
Dealing with the Archives is a much larger and more complex problem. Such lists as did exist had been produced in the late 1950s as a result of the Public Record Act, 1958: the Observatory's records are Public Record within the meaning of the Act and the Observatory itself is a Place of Deposit under Section 4 of that Act. The lists were of necessity brief and occasionally uninformative; in any event they dealt only with certain sections of the records, probably no more than one third of the total. Increasing interest in the collections made sorting and adequate indexing a real priority but the means of so doing were not immediately obvious.
As funding from SERC budgets seemed unlikely to be approved, even in the long term future, the RGO approached the Manpower Services Commission (MSC) with the intention of setting up a team of cataloguers and indexers to be entirely funded by MSC under their Community Programme. Agreement was eventually forthcoming and, in April 1983, a staff of one supervisor, three part-time assistants was appointed to form the Laurie Cataloguing Project. The first year of the Project, 1983–4, produced lists of the papers covering the first 200 years of the Observatory's life, together with some 10,000 entries in an index to the correspondence of G, B. Airy, Astronomer Royal, 1835–81. Another index, to named chronometers in the collections, was also started.
During the second year, 1984–5, the Project tackled the Solar Plate collection, a unique run of daily Sun photographs on glass plates, where vital information would soon have been irretrievably lost and the plates spoilt had no action been taken. By the end of the year over 14,000 out of a run of 22,000 had been saved, the various indexes had doubled in size and the listings reached the twentieth century. To ensure continued MSC funding, the Project also planned and wrote a series of Educational Work Packs, intended for distribution to the many school parties visiting the Observatory. The staff in this second year grew to three full-time and seven part-time employees.
The MSC have now approved a third year, 1985–6, during which the educational aspect of the work will be expanded. It is also hoped to complete the transfer of all the archival listings to word processor disk: the Observatory was the first department to produce its listings in this way.
Although about 75% of the papers have now been listed, the huge indexing task is only 10% complete: to make this information immediately available it should be entered on computer, but financing on the scale required will available from MSC.
As an example of the use to which all these data are put, material in the Archives and Airy Collection has been used by Yallop (RGO) and Clark (RAL) to study the rotation of the Sun. Records of observations made during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries of the occurrence of sunspots have been used to look for variations with latitude and time on the rate of rotation of the Sun. They found no detectable change in the equatorial period of rotation but they confirmed that the differential rotation with latitude varies with the sunspot cycle.
Lesley Murdin based a study of the practice of astronomy in the time of Newton on the archive material, and gave an account of how astronomers lived, built instruments and were financed in Under Newton's Shadow, Adam Hilger, 1985
The 1985 return of Halley's comet is resulting in a good deal of research being carried out at the Observatory and this precisely illustrates the unique character of the collections. We have in Archives both Edmond Halley's Islington observations of the great comet and the common-place book in which he later calculated its orbit. In the Flamsteed papers are observations made from Greenwich, against one of which is a note to the effect that, on that occasion at least, Flamsteed and Halley observed the comet together.
In the Airy Collection is Halley's Synopsis Astronomiae Cometicae (London, 1680), his first attempt to bring his theories to the public's attention; his note in the Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society, 1705, is in the Castle Library.
Also in the Airy Collection are Newton's Principia (3rd ed., London, 1726) which first interested Halley in the calculation of orbits and a number of important early treatises on comets, most notably Hevelius' Cometographia* (Danzig, 1668).
Bradley's observations of the 1758 return from Greenwich are in Archives and much of the published French of the period, particularly that by Clairault and Lalande*, is in the Airy Collection. By 1835, the Royal Observatory, Cape of Good Hope, was operational and Archives has Maclear's important series of southern hemisphere observations of the comet as well as Pond's from Greenwich.
By 1910 it was possible to make photographic plates with the 26-inch refractor at Greenwich and these, together with other plates, most notably again from South Africa, are stored in Archives. Virtually all of the printed material (newspaper articles, pamphlets, journal articles and results) are also available as are, now, a series of files of secondary publications on the present return and of photographs taken at both the Roque de los Muchachos and Herstmonceux.
Many of the images seen on television and in print relating to Halley's comet come from the Observatory. Use of all the collections is increasing rapidly and, as better finding aids become available and the book and periodical catalogues are fully automated, this trend is undoubtedly set to continue.
]. Dudley
Conservation. One of the main causes for concern when the Archive collections were reviewed in the late 1970s was their extremely poor physical condition and the rate at which the modern records, particularly, were deteriorating. After lengthy discussions, a modern and well equipped Conservation Laboratory was installed at Herstmonceux and a qualified paper conservator appointed. Although his task is primarily to deal with the Archive collections he carries out some remedial work on the rare books. The main programme dealing with the latter is, however, carried out under contract by individual craftsmen. The Observatory is one of the very few departments to have such a facility funded by central government and it is the only one supported within a research council.
* [Books of these descriptions appear in the 1827 catlaogue, suggesting that it was acquired by Airy's predecessor John Pond, who was fluent in French. In 1809, he translated into English and then published Laplace’s Système du monde. He also translated a substantial work by La Croix that was used by John Pinkerton in 1811 as the Introduction to the new editions of his Modern Geography in place of one by Samuel Vince.]
Nominal Roll 31 August 1985. Dynamical Astronomy and Space Geodesy [Division].
Division Head: Wilkins Dr GA. Gr6 H [Split function]
Library and Archives: Dudley Miss J. S LIB GL, Quarrington Ms C.M. ASO, Breeze Mr I.P. SANDS S N, Murdin Mrs L.C. CO N, Hutchins Mr J.V.P. ALIB, Maver Mr. I. CONS E, Smith Mr R.E. STMN
Laurie Project: [All these staff are recorded as Non-Complement] Perkins Mr. A.J., Betts Mr T.N., Crosswell Mr K.E., Durrant Mr A., Jones Mrs M.G., Samuelson Miss N.A.E., Spencer Mr D.W.
Staff List. D. Almanacs Space and Documentation Division.
Division Head: Wilkins Dr GA. Gr6
Library and Archives Dept:
Library: Hutchins Mr J.V.P. ALIB, Quarrington Ms C.M. ASO
Archives: Perkins Mr. A.J. ARCH O N[on-complement]
Conservation Laboratory: Maver Mr. I.D. CONS E
Laurie Project: Shaw Mr A.J. Plus 19 staff N[on-complement]
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Except where indicated, all text and images are the copyright of Graham Dolan