#37 - "A Window Crank"

#38 Scientific Plant Breeding - Michelle, Joani, Elaine, Mike, and Peyton!

"A Window Crank"

As I mentioned earlier, the Stone Mill had its challenges - mainly finding items to focus upon. Forced to look in the dark corners, behind the partially opened doors and even in the ceilings, I saw this device used to provide ventilation or possibly to release whatever odors were trapped in the room. A simply pulley and chain allowed a worker to open up the ceiling - early air conditioning. Greatly appreciated in these large mill buildings!

Greatest Inventions of All Time!
Recently I came across an article about the greatest inventions as determined by a large group of scientists, philosophers, educators, and other professions. Their task was to create a list of "the Greatest Inventions of All Time." Conveniently, the final list numbered fifty! so, I'm starting with #50 and working my way down to Numero Uno in December.

Fear not as I will offer you some hints as to what the invention was.

#37

The foundation of civilization - literally! 

Used by the Egyptians some 2600 years ago. A hydraulic binder, sort of a glue. . . China is the #1 producer of this with India and the US following a distance second and third.

Medieval masons and some military engineers maintained an active tradition of using the hydraulic version of #37 in structures such as canals, fortresses, ship building facilities, etc.

The technical knowledge for making this was formalized by French and British engineers in the 18th century.

I realize these clues are not very helpful so if you still need help, go to the bottom of this week's blog for multiple choices. . . 

Murphy's Laws

Perversity of Nature Law. . .

You cannot successfully determine beforehand 

which side of the bread to butter!

Leaving You with a Laugh, I Hope. . .

"Vegan Violence"

a. brakes   b. cement   c. bread-making   d. elevators