Observations on Smoky Chimneys, Their Causes and Cure; With Considerations on Fuel and Stoves

London: I. and J. Taylor, 1793. 1/2 leather. Very Good. Octavo, half-title, engraved illustrations, two folding plates. 19th century half-morocco, marbled boards (rubbed, spine ends chipped, small paper losses along edges, not affecting text). Third edition. "Smoky chimneys, in a new house are such frequently from mere want of air." American buildings suffered from the defects of their virtues: New homes were made so tightly, the joints and doors so true, that an insufficient amount of air was available to move the smoke up the chimney. Sometimes congestion was a problem, if the release of smoke was obstructed by neighboring houses of higher elevation or even hillsides. Doors and fireplaces situated on the same side of a room could also cause problems. The Franklin thesis is a wonderful illustration of his ability to blend scientific principles with practical observations and remedies. Ford 377.