AT , 3610 L IM2 1853 Columbia ILInitiersfttp intljfCitpofiJlmigork THE LIBRARIES AVERY LIBRARY Bequest of Frederic Bancrolt 1860-1945 Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2017 with funding from Columbia University Libraries https://archive.org/details/newphaseinironmaOOwick I A NEW PHASE IN IRON MANUFACTURE, EMBRACING A DESCRIPTION OF ITS USES FOR ENCLOSING PUBLIC SQUARES, CEMETERY LOTS, DWELLINGS, COTTAGES, OFFICES, GRATINGS FOR STORES, PRISONS, &c., WINDOW GUARDS, BEDSTEADS, TREE BOXES, VERANDAS, &c. BY JOHN B. WICKERSHAM. WAREHOUSE, 312 BROADWAY ; FACTORY, 53, 57, 59 & 61 LEWIS ST., N. Y. NEW YORK: WM. C. BRYANT & CO., PRINTERS, 41 NASSAU. STREET, COR. LIBERTY. 1 8 5 3. t T'! ''r .■»d ^tzsij) T< > ^ * f .'‘V 1 ■ ’■ r- ‘ /I ' / < 1 J • DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED DY JOHN B. AVICKEBSHAM, 312 BROABAVAY, NEW-YOBK. Notwithstanding the great and constantly inci’easing abundance of Iron, from its durability and the multiplicity of uses to which it is adapted, it may now be ranked as the foremost among the precious metals. Recent improvements in machin- ery for its manufacture have much enlarged its sphere of usefulness. Its hardness and intractability have been rendered soft and flexible by the powerful embrace of the Steam Engine, and inventive skill has moulded the metal into forms as light, graceful and various, as those hitherto supposed peculiar to the productions of nature, and fabrics of finer and more ductile minerals. New inventions are daily developed for purposes indispensable to every-day comforts. In the construc- tion of houses, and household furniture, whether designed for use or ornament, it is rapidly usurping the place of other ma- terials. The manufacture of wrought iron has reached a degree of perfection in which it may be applied to numberless uses where strength, durability, and decoration are sought to be combined. The ductility of the metal has been turned to ac- count, and, by the aid of machinery, articles are made which are not only cheaper, but they are also stronger and more beautiful than any' thing previously constructed. A peculiar feature of the manufacture has been brought prominently before the public in the construction of fabrics from Woven Iron, — a process of profiting by the peculiar ductile and tenacious properties of malleable iron in such man- ner as to produce wrought or woven fabrics in a cheaper and more durable form. It is well known that cast iron is easily moulded into many diiferent forms, but these patterns admit of little variety compared with the endless combinations of the malleable condition of the same substance. And the lightness, beauty' and variety of these combinations do not constitute all the advantage of woven, over the cast iron fabrics. The great strength of the former is their chief recommendation in all situations where violence and “wear and tear” are to be resisted. The minute and.cai'eful investigations of Mr. Stephen- son, the Engineer of the Britannia Tubular Bridge, have satisfactorily demonstrated the extraordinary powers of Wrought Iron to resist extension. He demonstrated that this material is capable of resisting a strain of from 16 to 18 tons per square inch, while cast-iron endures only from 3 to 7 tons. Examples further demonstrating this superiority might be multiplied, were the question, in any degree, a disputed one. But enough of generalities. Proceed we to the consideration of Woven Iron as applied to the construction of Ornamental Fences, Verandas, Balconies, Window Guards, Gates, &c. The first manufactory of Woven Iron, for these purposes, was established some five years since, and the business then commenced has grown and is still growing with unprecedented rapidity. Beginning with the simple manufacture of Wire Fences, the proprietor has so extended his operations, that his assortment now comprises a very great variety of unique and beautiful patterns. The peculiar nature of this improvement consists in the process of crimping and weaving bars and wire of any size. The plan of crossing the wires is so contrived that each binds the other, giving support to every part of the structure. Fabrics manufactured in this manner will endure five times the violence that cast-iron railing in common use is capable of withstanding. Its leading features are newness of style and variety of forms, combining taste and ornament with the utmost permanence and security. The following are drawings of a few of the patterns manufactured : No. 1.— HURDLE FENCE. 4* 4 No. 1 Pattern embraces all sized meshes of plain diamond form. It also shows the manner of securing the Panels, and inserting the prongs of the posts in the ground, which is all the security necessary for a moveable fence. This is a very desirable pattern for Lawns, &c. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 1, 9 in. Mesh, No. G wire, Hurdle, 3 ft. between bars, when up 3 ft. G in. ii 6 in. U G “ u u a u a a u n 6 in. u a 8 “ a u a a a (( (( ii 9 in. u a iin.“ u a u a u ii u G in. a a iin.“ CC a u cc cc u u $0 : 1 65 85 75 75 00 No. 1, FOR CEMETERIES, DOOR YARDS, &c. No. 2. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 1 Pattern— -No. 6 Wire 4^ in. Mesh, with pickets, 3 ft. 4 in. from ground to top of picket,.. ..$1 00 ic a iin. “ U' ii (4 44 .. 1 25 a u /ein. “ u a U .( a 44 44 .. 1 50 u a iin. “ u a “ 4 ft. u 44 44 .. 2 00 No. 2 Pattern— -No. G “ a (C “ 3i ft. u 44 44 .. 1 00 a u iin. “ ic a (( U (C 44 44 .. 1 25 (( a -®-in. “ a u 4C U cc 44 44 .. 1 50 u u u gin. u a “ 4 ft. 44 44 .. 2 00 For style of cast-iron Posts for this and other succeeding patterns, see enlarged cut, No. 15. These ornamental Posts are not furnished with the fence, but are charged extra, $“2 50 each for 3 ft. 4 in. Railing ; ^4 for 4 ft. do. ; ^5 for 5 ft. do. ; $7 for G ft. do. 'I'he panels are constructed from 6 to 8 ft. in length, and are supported by small wrought iron posts, entering a block of stone at the bottom, and surmounted by an ornamental cast-iron bud, giving the fence a very neat ap])earance. A border, as in Nos. 5, 6, 13 and 14, may be added to the top or bottom, or both, of the above or following Nos., at an expense of 37^ cents per lineal foot for each border. No. 6 wire has been found sufficiently strong for cemetery purposes, while for front door-yard enclosures, wire i of an inch in diameter is preferable. No. 3. No. 4. o PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 3 Piitteru — No. 0 Wire “ ‘‘ ^in. ( ( C C 1 II ^ ^ “ “ :^in. “ No. 4 Pattern — No. 0 “ “ “ {-in. “ ;< . (( t< 1 0 83 - ft. high. with pickets ii a ii u u (C 4 ft. a cc 8 j ft. a a cc a u a iC a a ic S 1 00 1 2 .') 1 oO 2 00 1 124 1 374 1 874 The above prices are without borders. Add 374 cts. for each lineal foot of border. Panels secured in same manner as Nos. 1 and 2. Ornamental Posts, from $2 .50 to $5 00 extra, are only necessary at corners and at each side of gates. The following extract from the Philadelphia North American has reference to the above pattern, No. 4, and shows the estimation in which this fence is held in the Quaker City. “ Beautiful Railing. — Among the numerous striking improvements lately made in Independence Hall, is a very neat and beautiful wire railing, enclosing the statue of Washington, Avhich was put up by J. B. Wickersham. It is a specimen of the Patent Iron Railing. The original and peculiar manner in which this railing is made must cause it to become a great favorite with persons wanting iron railing. It combines strength and durability of material with beauty of appearance, and being entirely of wrought iron can be manufactured into an endless variety of shapes and designs. Many persons will prefer it to the cast iron railing. It is admirably adapted to cemeteries, verandas, areas, cottages, gardens, &c.” No. 5. No. 6. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 5 Pattern — No. 6 Wire, 34 ft. high, with pickets, “ “ {in. “ “ “ u -^-in. “ “ “ “ u (( 3 (( a c( (c s $1 00 1 25 1 50 2 00 With border 374' cents per lineal foot extra. This is a very neat pattern, and has been selected to enclose the gal- leries of the House of Refuge, at Philadelphia. No. 6 Pattern — No. 6 Wire, 34 ft. in hight, $1 624 “ “ 4 u u u 1 94 “ “ I “ 4 “ 2 75 If wanted without border 374 cents less per lineal foot. lilSn»ir2 t) No. 9. No. 10. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 9 Pattern — No. 0 Wire, Sj ft. in height, 50 “ “ ',iii. “ “ “ 1 75 “ “ A “ “ “ 2 00 ^ ‘‘ 4 “ 2 75 No. lO Pattern — No. tj Wire, 83 ft. in lieight, 1 50 “ “ jin. “ ■“ “ I 75 “ “ 2 00 “ “ . I “ “ “ 9 hicii’mesh”!!”!!!!!!’”!!!”!!!*!!!!”!!!!!! 1 50 W ith bonier o7.> cents per lineal foot .idditional. The extra price of tliese and follo>Ying numbers is owing to one or more additional row of rosettes, each row increasing the price 25 cents per foot. No. 11. No. 12. With border 37 ^ cents per foot extra, No. 13. No. 14. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. P.atterns 13 and (C (( a :c a ic 14 — No. G Wire u ^ u “ rVin. “ “ fin. “ ft. in bight, with borderf?,. 5 U U ii ll it it 2 00 2 .00 2 75 3 50 No. 15. No. 17, PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. Nos. 15 and 17 — No. G Wire, 3^ ft. high (( a 4 a (4 iC iC a s 1 ti in. “ u 44 iC u iC 3 in. “ 4 44 1 25 1 50 1 75 2 25 With top or bottom border 37^ cents additional; with both, 75 cents. No. 17 was selected by the Charleston, S. C., to enclose the Battery in that city. These patterns are generally preferred to all 8 No. 19. No, 18. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. Nos. 19 and 18, ^ in. Wire 4 ft. liigli, $ 2 00 a (I (( _ 5 _ jjj i( a ^ 9 9^ “ “ “ '|in! “ 6 Aft. “ 300 No. 20. No, 21. CC 5 (( T?r (( 3 a s at PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. Nos. 20 and 21 — No. G Wire 85 ft. liigli, without border, ^ 1 75 a ^ (( .( u u n 2 00 n a (C tc 2 50 4 “ “ “ ”!!’!!! ”!!’*!!!” 2 75 With the centre row of Rosettes only these patterns can be furnished at the same prices as No. 15. With border top or bottom, 374 cts. per foot additional; at both top and bottom, 75 cts. a (c a a No, 22. No. 23. No. 22. •a PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. Nos. 22 and 23 — No. G Wire 3J- ft. high, without border, 1 75 u a “ “ 4 “ “ “■ “ “ 2 00 tc tc u ti 9 ct a ‘‘ 2 25 Additional price for borders same as above. In each of preceding Patterns, for an extra foot in bight, the price is increased j per foot. For each extra row of rosettes at the intersections of the wires, 25 cents per foot is charged. Small Gates (No. 23) from ^2 to $4 extra. CEMETERY ENCLOSURE-15, Civilized mankind in all ages of the world have bestowed great attention on the adornment of places of sepulture for their dead, and the marks of affection which render our Cemeteries so agreeable and inviting to the eye, may be traced to the same causes which founded the mighty monuments of old. Yet the modern testimonial of respect and affection for the departed differs from the ancient in the substitution of well-arranged grounds and tasteful appliances in place of cumbrous monuments. For the enclosure of Cemetery lots there is nothing so good and ornamental as iron wrouglit into the above style, and the patterns before given. It has already been extensively applied at Greenwood, Mount Auburn, Laurel Hill, the Congressional Grounds at Washington, the Philadelphia Odd Fellows’, Mechanics’, and Monument Cemeteries ; at Greenmount, Baltimore, Cypress Hills, New York Bay, and elsewhere, where the enclosures have been noted for the beauty of their pattern and finish, and the substantial character of their workmanship. Enclosures man- ufactured in this manner can be furnished as cheaply as simple chains and posts, and at one-half the cost of cast-iron. The inclosures are made of every pattern, which are furnished at the respective prices given previously under the appro- priate numbers. 8 I lu No. 17.-BALCONY. The above cut represents one of many patterns beautifully adapted for Balconies for public and private edifices. A Balcony is always a desirable addition to any mansion, and a luxurious resting place in the pleasant weather of summer. Yet these conveniences have been less and less used because of their great cost, weight and cumbrous aspect; and so long as they arc constructed of cast-iron, these objections cannot bo removed. By the use of wrought-iron, however, these difllculties are obviated. With half the weight, the latter material endures severer usage, yields to sudden concussions ■witliout being fractured, admits of alterations, and i)Ossesses the properties of lightness, strength and ornament. The time spent in the examination of these patterns, their uses and prices, will not be lost to^those purposing to build, either in town or country. No. 18. -AREA RAILING. This style of railing is furnished at the same prices as Nos. 18 anji 19, above, and is peculiarly adapted to tlie purpose represented in the above cut. It was selected by John Campbell, Esq., for his mansion in Sixteenth street, in this City. In lightness, grace and beauty it possesses many advantages over the clumsy and expensive cast-iron area railing and gates heretofore in use. 12 No. 30,-VERANDA, The true ornament of a properly appointed dwelling is a handsome complement of Gates and Verandas. A country seat especially is never complete without a well-constructed and breezy Veranda, where the pleasant summer twilights, and balmy evenings steal quietly upon you, and the softest zephyr comes pure and fresh, unimpeded by hot and stifling walls, Tlie graceful and open iron fabric which forms the only perfect Veranda, is unapproachable in lightness, convenience and beauty. It is as far superior to clumsy wood as cultivation is to sterility, or civilized taste to barbarism. Ihe above is an engraving of a very beautiful and recherche style of Veranda. Any ot the other patterns of railing can be used if preferred. The remarks previously made with reference to the perfect adaptedness of wrought-iron in the construction of Balconies, apply equally to these conveniences. The following engraving represents another and more elaborate style, two stories in hight, combining the utmost light- ness, grace and utility, with lowness of price. When compared with the clumsiness of the old-fashioned wooden and cast-iron structures, its immeasurable superiority becomes immediately apparent. A Hotel at Greenwich, N. Y., is constructed with these Verandas. No. 31. 13 1 14; No. 32. The construction of Winilow Guards, Gratings, and similar appliances, is one of the most extensive and successful departments in the manufacture of woven iron. For these purposes this fabric combines many excellent qualities. It does not obstruct the light, is an ornament wherever employed, and at the same time is sufficiently strong for security. Conservatories cannot be adequately protected by other means than an exterior wire netting ; with this fixture they are perfectly secure from breakage. The ornamental windows of churches may be secured against damage by the use of these wire guards. Gratings for stores, dwellings and steamers are readily made of any required size of wire. Specimens of this style made of half-inch rods are capable of resisting any degree of hard usage ; but the smaller sizes are woven with greater facility, and are equally serviceable where great strength is not required. They are admirably calculated for protecting the windows of Lunatic Asylums, admitting air and light, avoiding all appearance of a prison or place of com- pulsive confinement, and having upon the inmates a cheerful instead of gloomy influence, and yet preventing damage. Lighter styles will be found useful for the protection of hot-air flues, for drains, sky-lights, steps, door-work, and many purposes to which they have only to be experimentally applied to insure entire satisfaction. The splendid mansion in Six- teenth Street, already referred to, is fitted up with much of this work. Patterns Nos. 1 and 2 are peculiarly fitted for these purposes, and can be put up at the rate of 40 cents per square foot. Pi'ices vary for dififereut styles, from 40 cents to §1 per square foot. No, 32.— Style of Entrances to Forsyth Place, Savannah, Ga- IG OF equal iiuportancc with Balconies anil Veraiulas to tl>c surroundings of a tasteful country or city residence, arc neat and effective Gates. They sliould not only be light and graceful, but also strong and durable. They should both and shut with equal case and permanence. These arc the characteristics of the preceding and following Patterns. 'I'lic former has been adopted by the authorities of Savannah for their Park. Nothing superior has ever been constructed to protect the entrance to enclosures of any kind. Price for inch wire $7 per lineal foot ; g inch $10. Wo. 33. The above pattern differs slightly from the preceding, and is furnished at the same prices. Any other desired pattern can be substituted for either. tV ”^ch wire $7 per lineal foot ; | inch wire $10. o. 34. The above engraving is an enlarged view of Pattcim No. 15, showing the style of posts most commonly used and the manner of securing the panels. They are furnished at an extra chai’ge of $2 50 each, for 3^ feet railing, $3 50 for 4 feet do., $4 50 for 5 feet do., and $5 50 for 6 feet do. They are only necessary at the corners of the enclosure and each side of the gates. It) No. 35. The above is an enlarged view of Railing Pattern No. 18, "showing another style of posts, of cast-iron, forming a hollow square, and surmounted by an appropriate cap. Price for these posts $10 each. This pattern, | wire, encloses Forsyth Place, containing more than ten acres, in Savannah, Ga. This fact alone is sufficient voucher for its excellent qualities. Railing of all the foregoing patterns can be so constructed as to entirely exclude the use of posts, except what the panels form by bolting together, which is the cheapest form of putting up. Projections to drive into the ground are made of Iron, in such a manner as to act as braces, rendering the fence portable, and doing away wholly with stone blocks. MINERS’ COAL AND ORE SCREENS. The wear and tear of cast-iron when used for screening Ore or Coal is too well known to require comment. The remarkable extensile power of wrought-iron — eighteen tons per square inch, or nearly treble that of cast-iron — admirably fits it for the screening of heavy masses of Coal or Ore, the wires bending and shaping themselves anew under the most sudden concussions, without any disturbance of the meshes of the screen. Besides this great power of resisting extension, it is ascertained by conclusive experiment that Wrought-Iron will wear for a longer period under these circum- stances than Cast. There is a total absence of the cutting and rasping which so soon proves destructive to the old patterns. Ore-scrccns of wrought-iron have been made of the length of twenty-five feet, and even more, and have worked admirably; proving an additional saving in cost and bulk. Tliey are now used for the screening of Anthracite Coal throughout the Coal region of Pennsylvania, and have been productive of substantial profit and economy. They are also in use in all the principal coal yards of Boston, New \ ork and Philadelphia. I he process of tlieir manufacture is similar to that of the Railing, the wires being made of any desired size, from g in. to 1 in. in diameter ; shaped, crimped and interwoven in a very secure and expeditious manner. For parties engaged in mining operations in any part of the country, or in foreign countries, there is nothing so well adapted ; while they are comparatively light and easy of transportation. IT No. 24. No. 24. PRICES PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 24 — I Wire, with or without piquets, 3 teet 4 inches high $2 00 No. 24 — tV “ “ “ 1 75 The above design encloses the galleries of the RENOWNED CRYSTAL PALACE OF NEW YORK. The standard or centre post, represented above, price ,f4 each. It is suitable for any of the enclosed designs that are 3 feet 4 inches high. No. 25. No. 26. No. 25 — j Wire, 24 inches high, oval bar on top .$1 75 No. 25 — “ 1 50 No. 26— ,=*8 “ “ “ “ 2 00 In these styles the meshes are woven closely, being but 2j inches between the interstices. They are admirably adapted to Banks, for counter-railing. Many of our pi'incipal Banks are now using these beautiful designs. No. 25 is particularly suited for window-guards and gratings, where security and neatness is desired. It can be made to fill into any size space. Price 50 cents per square foot. For conservatories, dwellings, stores, banks, &c., it cannot be surpassed. No. 27. No. 28. 18 PRICE PER LINEAL FOOT. No. 27 — 1 inch Wire, -nith piquets, 3 feet 4 inches high SI 50 No. 27— “ “ 1 75 No. 27—1 “ “ “ “ “ 2 UO No. 28-i “ “ “ “ “ 1 50 The above designs are adapted to places where a heavy fence, in appearance, is needed. Handsome patterns for cemetery purposes. CAST AND WROUGHT IRON RAILINGS. ( 'I'he constant and increasing demand for Railings for various purposes has induced the manufacturer to extend his business into this branch, which enables him to suit all classes and different forms of architecture, from the lightest to the most massive designs, embracing every pattern now manufactured in this city. Particular attention is paid to the manufacture of Entrance Gates, for country villas, public grounds, &.C.; among which will be found, the heavy and massive gates at the Crystal Palace — each measures horizontally 66 feet — the largest gateways in the United States ; also, the gateways of the Augusta and Waynesboro’ Railroad Co., Ga., which measures in lefigth 44 feet. The following are a few of the cast and wrought iron designs of Railings for various purposes : No. 100. The above design is made of wrought and cast iron, and surrounds the outside of the Crystal Palace. Price for Lamp Posts, as above, .^25 each. No. 37. No. 102.-$1 37. lid No. 107.-$1 75. No. 108.-$1 75. No. 110.-$1 75. No. 109.- $1 75. No. 113.-$4 CO. No. 114.-$3 00. 1»1 No. 115.-$2 00. No. 116.-$2 00. EAILROAD AND FARM FENCES, Patented July Is/, 1851, and JMarch 9th, 1852, AND MANUFACTURED BY JOHN B. WICKERSHAM. The most simple form of the manufacture of iron is its application to Farm Fences. The era of crazy posts and rickety tottering rails is passing away with the advancement of the useful arts. Not to speak of the vast amount of valuable timber employed, or ratlier Avasted, in the construction of the old fashioned “ worm fence,” the homestead is made awkward and unsightly by its use. The advantages accruing from tlie use of the Wire Fence will cause it speedily to take the ])lace of all other material, combining, as it does in an eminent degree, the ])roperties of strength, lightness, portability and beauty — the view of the landscape being at the same time entirely unobstructed. 'I'he fences are made with horizontal Avires tightened by means of an effective arrangement, so that the Avhole tension of the rod is obtained. The posts are furnished Avith contriA'ances of different patterns for security in the ground. The size of the rods A’aries in accordance with the Avishes of the purchaser, or the uses for A\diich the fence is designed. No ordinary domestic animal Avill break through fences of considerably less than ^ inch Avrought Avire, Avhile still larger sizes may be used Avith the same facility if required. In the partial and hitherto unsuccessful application of Wire Fences to farm purposes, a great defect has been the Avant of competent manufacturers, and the loss of resistance occasioned by a lax tension of the Avires. These difficulties have now disappeared, and Iron Fences bid fair to be the future boundaries of every domain. The following engravings are (fig. 1) a perspective vicAV and a vertical section (fig. 2) of this patent Wire Fence. The explanation of the cuts is an extract from the specifications Avhereon the patent Avas granted. A short examination only is necessary to perceive its simplicity and adaptedness to the required purposes. The posts are simply driven into the ground. The accompanying engravings are a perspective vieAV, fig. 1 : and a vertical section through one post, fig. 2, of the Patent Wire Fence. 'I’he same letters refer to like parts. A represents the posts, Avhich may be flat bar iron, having in them any suitahle number of 'F shaped mortises, and Avhich may have either end of the mortises up ; or the mortises may be square or oblong, as seen at ii. 'I'he rails, C, may bo made of round, flat, or any other shaped bars or rods, cither in ■\\'liole or in part. Said rails have loops turned upon both of their ends ; and when they are to be inserted in the post hole, B, they arc to be slipped through the hole far enough to escape the turned end of the loop, and then lurned half round and drawn back, which will bring them to the position shown in fig. 1, in which position they cannot be ;urned to draw them out; the loops fill up the entire space, one resting upon the other, and the shoulder in the mortise ivill not admit of their being raised. The rails cannot be withdrawn until slipped back, and then turned half round. To )revent this being done, the loop is bent out on both sides of the post, as seen at fig. 2, and the rail then cannot be drawn )ut on either side.. By this means a rigid and strong fence is made with few pieces, little labor, and at a low price ; only angle posts are used, and no keys, bolts, or wedges, are required — the mortises and loops are substitutes for the keys and lies in other wire fences. At suitable distances on a line of fence, say at about every one hundred yards, more or less, there are placed screw Duckies, E, for letting out and screwing up the fence, to compensate for the expansion and contraction of the metal, if lecessary; but in practice it has been found that the elasticity of the loops, upon which the horizontal strain is exerted, s nearly quite sufficient for such expansion or contraction. The screw buckles are of more essential service in putting up ;he fence and equalizing the strain upon the posts when put up. The posts, rails, &c., are all prepared by machinery, and may be made of any size, shape, and material, packed up nto fagots for easy handling and transportation, and can be set up by any person wlio has the least skill in fence making. The posts are usually set about 16 inches into the ground, and made tight in their places by ramming gravel or stone ilongside. The improvement is certainly a most excellent one in wire fences, one that offers superior advantages to any Dther. For farmers it is certainly an important improvement. The wire used for the rails is a quarter of an inch in liametei’ — smaller is not recommended, as cattle are not liable to notice a smaller size. The posts are planted about 12 'eet apart, and the hight is about 4|- feet. The following cut exhibits the natural size of the wires most commonly used in farm fences, and the manner in which they pass through and support the post, and are supported by it : The advantages and peculiarities of this style of fence are : — 1st. The rails are formed in such a manner that by simply passing them through slots in the post, it is impossible :o remove them, and this without the use of bolts, wedges, screws, or any other fastening. 2d. It is manufactured and ready for use before shipment. It is much more easily put up than any other fence, as the necessity of digging post-holes is almost entirely obviated ; simply driving the posts into the ground, or making a hole iVith an iron bar being sufficient security. 3d. The rails being made straight and the coil taken out, if one breaks it is easily replaced, and docs not recoil into ts former shape, thereby endangering the limbs of domestic animals that might get entangled in its folds, as in other varieties. 4th. The rails do not depend upon the post for support, but receive and resist the strain upon them ; hence, if any Dosts should break the fence remains good. Manner of Putting up this Fence. — It is absolutely necessary that the straining pillar, or starting post, of wood ir iron, at the extreme ends of the fence, should be perfectly firm, as the wires cannot otherwise be made tight. Com- uencing from a tree is recommended, if possible. Plant the posts 12 feet apart, hook in the rails, and at the“distance of .50 feet place a screw on each wire. Place the next set of screws at the distance of 300 feet, and so continue. The wire used is one-fourth inch in diameter. The posts are formed of one piece 1| by | inch. Hight of fence 44 eet. 24 No. 26. The above engraving shows the Farm Fence with wooden posts. The eyes upon the end of the rail, whicli with iron posts are merely passed through the mortise or slot, are here bolted to the post. PRICES PER ROD. 5 Rail Fence 4^ feet high, with screws, exclusive of posts $1 33 Y* u ii ^ rjrj Each additional wire 20 cents per rod. No. 28.-WITH IRON POSTS. PRICES PER ROD. For Cattle and Horses, 3 Wires, with Iron Posts and Screws $1 66 .( (( a ^ ' ■' ^ ~ . u a (( ^ “ Hogs, Sheep, &c., 7 a a C( u “ Turkeys, Geese, &c. 10 “ Each additional wire 20 cents per rod. a i( a u 1 84 2 00 2 40 3 00 No. 27. r r. - rJ The above is a pattern made of flat rails, which might be preferred by some. It can be furnished at nearly as lowl prices as the round rail. IRON STRAINING PILLARS. Iron Straining Posts, needed only for the commencement, corners and ending of the fence ^5 each. 2r> No. 29. The above is the style of English Hurdle Fence, which is firm and substantial, and at the same time easily taken up and transported to other enclosures. Price 40 and 50 cents per lineal foot. No. 24. No. 25. Above are represented the single and double Gates accompanying the above styles of Fence. Their hangings and rastenings are perfect in every respect. Prices, for single, $5 and |6 ; for double, $12 and $15. 5 26 No. 37. Tlie above represents one of many styles of ornamental Farm Gates, which are furnished at prices, corresponding to the patterns desired, from $20 to $30 each. Their neatness, beauty, and cheapness are too apparent to need a wordy illustration. No. 38. No. 38 illustrates the manner of packing this fence for transportation, k Represents the posts,./ is a bundle of the rails prepared for immediate use. The preceding styles of Fences can be galvanized, if desired, at an additional expense. IRON BEDSTEADS, MANUFACTURED BY JOHN B. WICKERSHAM, NEW YORK. Mankind not only love good living and the refinements of civilized society, but also the luxuries of repose. Nothing makes one in a better humor with himself and “ the rest of mankind” than a comfortable bed and refreshing sleep — to obtain which the bedstead is an indispensable requisite. The soldier may live through his campaigns, sleeping on the ground, or on a “ soft plank” that offers its scanty accommodations for his acceptance ; the prisoner in his cell feels thankful for his pallet of straw, and the rover is contented with his blanket ; yet it is not probable that either would select these modes in preference to the comforts of more refined life. From the earliest periods men have bestowed much atten- tion on the appliances of the couch and the bed chamber. We read of bedsteads among the rich Greeks and Romans “ made of ivory, ebony, and rich woods, with inlaid work, and figures in relief.” Among the Greeks, there were artisans who excelled in making brazen feet for bedsteads, chairs, &c. In ancient Egypt bedsteads were enclosed in mosquitoe- nets, supported by wooden posts. The Romans made their bedsteads of silver, of gold with onyx feet, and of iron. One of the latter was found in Pompeii. The base and precious metals have thus entered largely into the household fabrics of ancient and modern nations. In the present ago, iron has been applied to manifold uses where it was never befoi'e thought of, and not the least among these is the IRON BEDSTEAD. We have before in these pages spoken of applications of iron to other important pur- poses, but their importance does not throw into the shade our present subject. The ease and pliancy of these bedsteads, their great portability, cleanliness, and undoubted solidity commend them to universal favor, creating for them an immense demand. Many persons who have heretofore preferred the old-fashioned, clumsy, and inconvenient styles, from a mis- 21 taken notion that an Iron Bedstead must necessarily be awkward and unsightly, have found their error refuted by an examination of the handsome styles of workmanship illustrated by the plates below. The subject is commended to the attention of housekeepers and others who would make a desirable addition to their summer comforts. These Bedsteads are manufactured on an entirely new plan, being constructed with joints so as to fold up into a very small compass. They possess one recommendation which should outweigh all others, — they are entirely free from the in- sect annoyances peculiar to the wooden variety, insuring pleasant slumbers in the sultry nights of summer. Their highly ornamental appearance and the small space they occupy render them superior to every thing heretofore manufactured. No. 35.-BEDSTEAD OPEN. No. 35.-BEDSTEAD SHUT, The above cuts represent the bedstead, open and shut. Prices — For f size, $7 ; |, $9 ; $10. These patterns are bronzed or tipped with gold. No. 36.-HOSPITAL AND SERVANTS’ BEDSTEAD. The above cut represents a cheaper and plainer variety, excellently adapted for the use of Hospitals, Servants, &c. Prices — For | size, $5 ; |, $6 ; $7. No. 37. CAST IRON BEDSTEADS. No. 38. Prices — $25 to $46. Prices — $9 to $25. Above are specimens of Cast Iron Bedsteads, which, although not so light and portable as the wrought varieties, are far preferable to wood, in consequence of their durability, cleanliness and beauty. They can be purchased of any pattern, 28 French or American, and of any color — oak, mahogany, rosewood, plain or ornamented, bronzed, China White, or gilt; of any sizes, four-fourths, three-fourths, or single ; for private family, hotel, hospital, or servants’ uses. No. 39. Cast Iron Bedstead — Price for J size, §18. No. 40. Folding Crib — Price §10. No. 41. No. 42. .Swinging Crib — Price ,§12 to If). d'he Union Bedstead, admirably adapted to Dwellings &. Hotels. Price for 2-4, §12 ; 3-4, §1.5 ; 4-4, §20. Iron Bedsteads arc designated in size by 2-4 which embraces widths from 2 ft. 6 in. to 3 ft. 3-4 “ “ “ from 3 ft. 6 in. to 4 ft. ■1-4 “ “ “ from 4 ft. 6 in. to 5 ft. 1 he Manufacturer has devoted considerable time and means for the advancement of this particular branch, which, together with his perfect machinery for the manufacture of Iron Bedsteads, he defies competition, in cheapness, strength and utility. 1 o persons ordering largely for the purposes of trade, liberal discounts are made from the published prices. Musketo bars are furnished when desired— prices vary from §1 ,50 to §5. 29 FRENCH WIRE FURNITURE, MANUFACTURED BY JOHN B. WICKERSHAM. A new article lately introduced into this country from France. It is admirably adapted for Lawns, Summer Houses, Cottages, Piazzas, &c., &.c. This style of Furniture is exceedingly light and unique in appearance. Among the articles manufactured will be found Folding, Hall and Office Chairs, Rocking and Arm Chairs, Tables, Settees, Fire Fenders, &c., &c. A few of the designs are here represented. Particular attention is called to this branch from the trade. No. 200. No. 201. No. 202. Folding or Travelling Chair. Folding Chair, closed. Price §4 50. Rocking Chair — Price $10. No. 203. No. 204. Folding Chair, wire back — Price*$5. Cottage Chair — Price $5- No. 205. Stool — Price $3 50. 30 CAST IRON FURNITURE, Manufactured by John B. Wickersham, FOR GARDENS, CEMETERY ENCLOSURES, LAWNS, PIAZZAS, HALL CHAIRS, ETC., ETC. No. 300. No. 301. Hall Chair — Price $4 50. No. 206. Hall Chair — Price $4 50. No. 306. Grape Chair. — $5. Folding or Stationary Settee, for Piazzas, Lawns, &c. — $10 to 15. f* Morning Glory Chairs. $6 Rustic Settee — Price $8 and $9. No. 302. Gothic Settee — Price $17 and $20. No. 305. 31 Iron Washstand, Vase. Iron Washstand, Horse Posts. ivith Glass, including Crockery. From $5 to $20. without Glass, Including Crockery. Price $6. Price $7. Price $6 50. No. 309. Fountain — Price ^40. No. 312. Lions — $75 per pair. No. 313. Hounds — $20 to $40 per pair. No. 314. WIRE NETTING, PROOF AGAINST SHEEP, RABBITTS AND POULTRY, MANUFACTURED BY JOHN B . W I C K E R S H A M . No. 400. • This Netting is also used for Factory, or Mill Windows, pre- venting breakage by loose shut- tles or missiles. CAST IRON FRONTS, FOR BUILDINGS, CAPS, LINTELS, CORNICE, TRUSS GIRDERS, COLUMNS AND BRACKETS. WROUGHT IRON DOORS, SHUTTERS, AND ALL WROUGHT AND CAST IRON WORK FOR BUILDING PURPOSES. No. 600. Truss Girder with Rod. No. 605. Lintel No. o. No. 506. Lintel No. 4. 33 No. 504. Fancy Column. 34 Ko. 507. No. J. — Lintel for AViinlow, Trusses. No. 621. No. 2. — Straight Window Lintel, with Trusses. I I No. 611. No. 510. . 1 Sill with Corbels. No. 612. No. 514. ^ ! CORREGIO CAPITALS. ! Made for the Saint Charles Hotel, New Orleans. ! 4r» innlies diameter. — Round. No. 513. 0 No. 515. 35 No. 516. > CoBREGio Capitals, square, made for the St. Charles Hotel, N. 0. 6 to 27 inches diameter. Corinthian Capitals, from 8 to 18 in. diameter. No. 618. IONIC CAPITALS. ^ - TFiTrrf-riMb^^. All sizes. No. 619. BRACKETS OF ALL DESCRIPTIONS. No. 520. 36 HAIR MATTRESSES, FEATHER, CORN HUSK AND STRAW BEDS, wanui'actured By JOHN B. AVICKERSHAM. Tlic constant ami increasing deiiiaiul tor Ornamental and Plain Iroiv Bkusteads and their Furniture, has induced the Projnietor to extend this hranch, wliich has already grown into a large and flourishing trade. The superior make of these Hair Mattresses and Beds are their principal recommendation. Orders filled for Steamships, Vessels, Hotels, Private Hesidences, Asylums, Hospitals, tk.c., &c., with promptness and at the lowest market prices. WARREN’S CENTRIPETAL SPRING CHAIRS. 'J'ho most agreeable, easy and luxurious Chair extant, suitable for the Parlor, Chamber and Oflice. Prices varying from §7 to $50 each. CAST IRON ORNAMENTAL COAT AND HAT TREES, A large and extensive variety of Patterns. No. L No. 2. No. 3. No. 4. 37 The following Articles, some of which are previously enumerated, the Pro- prietor manufactures and furnishes at the lowest rates. ORNAMENTAL AND PLAIN IRON RAILINGS — Made of every design, manufactured either of Wrought Iron, Wire or Cast Iron, for Public and Private Grounds, Dwellings, Public Buildings, Areas and Stoops, &c., &.C. IRON WINDOW GUARDS — For Public Buildings, Hospitals, Lunatic Asylums, Private Houses, Basement Windows, &c., &c. IRON GRATINGS AND RAILINGS— For Banks, Stores and Offices. IRON GATES — Of every style and design, from the most ornamental, for Public Parks, Churches, &c., to the plain- est pattern of Field or Farm Gates. WIRE FENCES — Warranted to resist Cattle, Sheep and Hogs, for Railroads, Farms, Lawns, &c. [ WIRE FENCE — Made on the plan of the Proprietor’s patent, cannot burn or float. Countries subjected to fire and inundations, and a scarcity of timber, this fence is invaluable. [ FLAT RAIL COTTAGE FENCE — A very graceful and substantial Fences an article long been sought for, combining I neatness with economy. I IRON BEDSTEADS — For Dwellings, Hospitals, Asylums, Prisons, &c. A large assortment. The Proprietor I defies competition in the manufacture of Bedsteads. His establishment manufactures more Bedsteads of Iron than all the other manufacturers in the city combined. HAIR MATTRESSES — Of a superior make, for Private Families, Hotels, Vessels, Asylums, &c., &c. Also, Corn Husk, Feather and Straw Beds. The increasing demand for Bedsteads has induced the Proprietor to enter more largely into the manufacture of these indispensible comforts. FRENCH WIRE FURNITURE — Only needs to be seen to bring it into general use. Washstands, Tables, Chairs, Settees, &c. [ CAST IRON FURNITURE — Chairs, Settees, Tables, Blower Stands, Shovel and Tongues Stands, Spittoons, Umbrella Stands, Hat Trees, Door Scrapers, Tables, Table Pedestals, &c., &c. j WIRE NURSERY FENDERS— Of all sizes. WIRE NETTINGS — For Window protection, inside and outside. Also, Sheep and Poultry proof Nettings, of various widths and lengths. GARDEN WIRE WORK — Arbors, Arches, Trellis for Grape Vines, Runners for Training Plants and Flowers. CAGES — Of the newest patterns. COAL AND IRON ORE SCREENS — Used for screening Coal, Sand, Lime, Iron, Copper and Zinc Ores. CAST IRON FRONTS — For Stores, Public and Private Buildings, Cornice, Lintels, Caps, Columns, Spouts, Sills, Girders, &c., &c. HORSE POSTS — Of new and appropriate designs. WROUGHT IRON DOORS, SHUTTERS, GRATINGS AND RAILINGS— In fact all Wrought and Cast Iron Work in the before-mentioned branches. A few of the Places and Persons for whom the Proprietor has executed orders, as follows : THE MASSIVE RAILING, enclosing the outside of the far-famed Crystal Palace, at New York, including Gate- ways, Posts, Foundation Gradings, &c. THE INSIDE RAILINGS, made from a beautiful design of Wire Railing, enclosing the galleries of the Crystal Palace, together with the Dome Stairs, Newels, Standards, Stair and Platform Railings. Also, the Balcony Railings for the same building, manufactured and put up by the Proprietor. FORSYTH PLACE — A Public Park, containing upwards of 10 acres. Also, Churches, Public Buildings, Private Residences and Cemetery, in Savannah, Ga., furnished with Iron Railings. 38 AIKIN SQUARE, FLYNN’S CHURCH, CIRCULAR CHURCH, and many of the most prominent buildings in Charleston, S. C., furnished vrith Ikon Railings outside, Gallery Railings inside. Window Guards, Doors, Shutters, &c. AUGUSTA AND WAYNESBORO’ R,R. CO., Ga. — Iron Gateways measuring 44 feet, 22 feet and 11 feet, suitable for Railway purposes, furnished for the above Company. THE HOUSE OF REFUGE, Philadelphia. — The Gallery Railing and Iron Bedsteads. SCHOOL OF MORAL REFORM, near Boston. — All the Window Gratings. PRESIDENT’S GROUNDS AT WASHINGTON. ASTOR LIBRARY CONVENT OF SACRED HEARTS BOARD OF EDUCATION GEORGIA FEMALE COLLEGE;— BLOOMINGDALE ASYLUM COLLEGE OF ST. JAMES, &c., &c. CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF NATCHEZ. CITY INFIRMARY, Cincinnatti. FULTON BANK HANOVER BANK;— CITY BANK OF BROOKLYN ;— BROOKLYN SAVINGS BANK ;— CENTRAL BANK OF BROOKLYN ;— BANK OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK;— BANK OF NORTH AMERICA;— STATE BANK AT TROY ;— CENTRAL BANK AT TROY;— MANUFACTURER’S BANK AT TROY;— STATE BANK, NEWARK;— BANK AT PORTSMOUTH, VA.;— MERCHANTS’ BANK AT POUGHKEEPSIE ;— CANAL BANK AT LOCKPORT ;— COMMERCIAL BANK, GLENN FALLS; ATLANTIC BANK, NEW YORK, &c., &c. COLUMBIA INSURANCE CO.;— WASHINGTON INSURANCE CO.;— UNITED STATES INSURANCE CO., &c. METROPOLITAN HOTEL;— ST. NICHOLAS ;— PRESCOTT HOUSE ;— CLINTON HOTEL;— LAFARGE HO- TEL ;— HAIGHT HOUSE, Elmira ;— GREENWICH HOTEL ;— ST. CHARLES HOTEL, N. O., &c., &c. NIBLO’S THEATRE ;— BROADWAY THEATRE, New York ;— ST. CHARLES THEATRE ;— NATIONAL THEATRE, Boston, &c., &c. MRS. JUDSON’S GRAVE, at St. Helena. Steamers PACIFIC, ARCTIC, GOLDEN GATE, BLACK WARRIOR, GOLDEN AGE, FLORIDA, AUGUSTA, ERRICKSON, YANKEE BLADE, &c., &c. Also, extensive orders have been filled from the Proprietors’ Establishment for several Palaces in Mexico ; also, Cuba, Caraccas, South America, California, Australia, Africa, &c., &c. Hon. Geo. Bancroft, late Minister to England; Hon. Wm. B. Lawrence, ex-Governor Rhode Island; Wm. Aspin- WALL, Esq., of Howland & Aspinwall; James Brown, of Brown, Bros. & Co.; Theodore Sedgwick, Esq., Pre- sident Crystal Palace; Mortimer Livingston, Esq., Bremen Steamers; Auguste Belmont, Esq.; Messrs. Corcoran & Riggs; Jas. S. DeBenneville, Esq.; Harry Ingersoll, Esq.; Gen. James Watson Webb; Anson G. Phelps, Jr.; Geo. L. Schuyler, Esq.; Dr. Alfred Freeman; C. B. Conant, Esq.; R. Bement, Esq.; Messrs. Ball, Black & Co.; Messrs. D. Appleton & Co.; Horace Greely, Esq.; Jno. F. Ropes, Esq.; Alderman Herrick ; Late A. J. Downing, Esq.; Philip Van Renssalaer, Esq.; Archbishop Hughes ; Wm. B. Astor, Esq.; F. H. Delano, Esq.; Jos. W. Alsop, Esq.; Judge Campbell, &c., &c., &c. The Proprietor could publish 3000 orders and upwards received during the year 1853, from various parts of the world. Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals, also Diplomas and Certificates of Merit have been awarded to the Proprie- tor by various Institutions, for the promotion of useful Mechanical, Agricultural, Arts and Implements. In conclusion, the subscriber would gratefully acknowledge the liberal patronage bestowed upon his previous efibrts to add to his Country’s Stock of L^seful Fabrics, and would respectfully ask those into whose hands this Book may full, and who may contemplate procuring any of the herein described articles, to call and examine the variety submitted to public inspection at his Wareroom, No. 312 BRbADWAY, New York. JOHN B. WICKERSHAM. » I I L?J BOUND MAY 2 0 1954