Open Access Publisher and Free Library
03-MEMOIRS.jpg

HISTORY-MEMOIRS

IMPERIAL HISTORY, CRIMINAL HISTORIES-MEMOIRS

Posts tagged technology
Records of a Family of Engineers: The Works of Robert Louis Stevenson, Volume XVI:

By Robert Louis Stevenson. Edited by Colin Heston

Records of a Family of Engineers” is a unique and deeply personal work by Robert Louis Stevenson, chronicling the remarkable legacy of his own family—particularly his grandfather, Robert Stevenson, and father, Thomas Stevenson—who were among the most influential civil engineers in 19th-century Scotland. This volume, presented as Volume XVI of the Swanston Edition, offers a rare blend of biography, historical narrative, and technical insight, all rendered in Stevenson’s elegant and reflective prose.

The book focuses primarily on the life and work of Robert Stevenson (1772–1850), the pioneering engineer best known for designing and constructing the Bell Rock Lighthouse, one of the greatest engineering feats of its time. Through a series of vivid sketches and recollections, Stevenson documents the challenges, triumphs, and innovations that defined his grandfather’s career, including perilous sea work, the development of lighthouse technology, and the broader evolution of maritime safety in the British Isles.

What sets this work apart is its intimate perspective. Stevenson writes not only as a literary figure but as a descendant and observer of a family tradition steeped in precision, discipline, and public service. His narrative is rich with technical detail, yet always accessible, offering insights into the tools, methods, and philosophies that shaped early civil engineering. At the same time, he reflects on the moral and emotional dimensions of his forebears’ work—their courage, perseverance, and sense of duty.

The Swanston Edition enhances this text with scholarly annotations, historical context, and careful editorial work, making it an invaluable resource for readers interested in the history of engineering, Scottish heritage, and Stevenson’s broader literary output. It stands as both a tribute to a family legacy and a meditation on the intersection of science, craftsmanship, and human endeavor.

Read-Me.Org Inc. New York-Philadelphia-Australia. 2025. 292p.

STYLING vS. SAFETY: The American Automobile Industry and the Development of Automotive Safety, 1900-1966

MAU CONTAIN MARKUP

by Joel W. Eastman

In "STYLING VS. SAFETY," Joel W. Eastman delves into the pivotal era of 1900-1966, exploring the intricate relationship between styling and safety in the American automobile industry. Through extensive research and meticulous analysis, Eastman uncovers the complex dynamics that shaped automotive design and safety standards during this transformative period.

From the early days of the automotive industry, where aesthetic appeal often took precedence over safety considerations, to the groundbreaking advancements that led to increased focus on protecting drivers and passengers, this book offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of automotive safety practices.

Drawing on a wealth of historical sources, Eastman provides invaluable insights into the key players, technological innovations, and regulatory developments that influenced the industry's approach to balancing style and safety. "STYLING VS. SAFETY" is a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of design, technology, and consumer safety in the fascinating world of automobiles.

NY. University Press of America. 1984. 283p.