William George Armstrong |
Whilst fishing he saw a water wheel in operation, and wondered, how could all the power generated by water could be utilised. On his return he designed a rotary engine powered by water, and later a piston engine which were built by Henry Watson in the High Bridge works. However little interest was taken in the engines.
In 1854 Armstrong became involved a scheme by Newcastle Corporation to pipe water from distant resevoirs to Newcastle. As part of the scheme Armstrong pursuaded the Corporation that excess water pressure could be used to power hydraulic cranes, and an experiment was consudted on the quayside in Newcastle.
The cranes were a success, and this pursused Armstrong to set up an engineering business, and in 1847, WG Armstrong & Company purchsed land on the banks of the River Tyne at Elswick, and production of hydraulic cranes commenced.
By 1850, 300 men were employed at the works, producing 45 cranes per year. The company expanded further, and also began the construction of bridges.
During the Crimrea War in 1854 Armstrong read about the difficulties the British Army experienced with their heavy field guns.
Royal Artillery in the Crimea |
The initial test firing was conducted on the moors at Allenheads, and proved to be succesful.
Armstrong Gun Discovery Museum Newcastle upon Tyne |
Armstong Gun Cartridge and Projectile |
Armstrong Gun Works Elswick 1859 |