CHAPTER X.
OF THE MANNER OF FIXING AND ARRANGING FIRE-WORKS IN GENERAL FOR EXHIBITION.
Having already treated of the formation of various kinds of fire-works, we come now to consider their arrangement in fixed and moveable pieces.
It is obvious, that the order of arrangement, the manner of disposing the work, or establishing pieces for exhibition, may be greatly varied according to taste and fancy. The great variety of fixed and moveable pieces, consisting of suns, moons, stars, &c. which may be either made permanent, or to revolve on, or round a centre; or of wheels, double, single, or treble, either moving round other wheels, or by themselves in a vertical or horizontal order, together with the arrangement of fire-pots, and coloured lights, the management of rockets, the formation of aerial stars, serpents, tourbillons, &c. and the imitation of cascades, girandoles, and water-falls, all depend on the taste and fancy of the artist.
It is our intention, therefore, in the different sections of this chapter, to give the order and arrangement of pieces, as adopted in Europe, and particularly in France; so that the manner of fixing any one piece, or combination of pieces, to produce effects of different kinds, may be seen at one view. The moveable pieces are generally made of wheel-work, the wheel always turning upon an axle, which may pass entirely through and be kept on by a nut or pin. They should revolve without much friction, and, for this reason, the spindle should be of metal, and oiled or greased. Black lead, along with tallow, will diminish the friction very considerably. As to the formation of the wheel, whether it be solid, or formed of spokes and a band or hoop, or made with several concentric bands, placed at given distances apart, &c. the observations on this head will be found under the respective articles, and, generally, on all other pieces for exhibition.
We purpose, in a subsequent chapter, to notice particularly the works, made in and on water, usually denominated aquatic fire-works; as their arrangement, in many respects, differs from those on the land. Aquatic works furnish a variety, both in character and effect, and, therefore, are calculated to produce, in conjunction with land works, a brilliant spectacle. Of this, we have an instance, mentioned in the introduction to this part of our work, in the splendid exhibition at the Pont Neuf in Paris.
Sec. I. Of the Composition of Wheel-Cases, standing and fixed.
It may not be improper, before noticing the arrangement of wheel-cases, to give in this place the compositions, which are used for charging them, reserving, however, the notice of some preparations, when we treat of such works, in which they are particularly employed.
Wheel-cases from two ounces to four pounds.
| Slow fire for wheels. | |||||
| 1. | Saltpetre, | 4 | oz. | ||
| Sulphur, | 2 | — | |||
| Meal-powder, | 1½ | — | |||
| 2. | Saltpetre, | 4 | oz. | ||
| Sulphur, | 1 | — | |||
| Antimony, | 1 | — | 6 | dr. | |
| 3. | Saltpetre | 4½ | oz. | ||
| Sulphur, | 1 | — | |||
| Meal-powder, | 1½ | — | |||
| Dead fire for wheels. | |||||
| 1. | Saltpetre, | 1¼ | oz. | ||
| Sulphur, | ¼ | — | |||
| Lapis calaminaris, (prepared calamine,) | ¼ | — | |||
| Antimony, | 2 | dr. | |||
| Sun cases. | |||||
| 1. | Meal-powder, | 8½ | lbs. | ||
| Saltpetre, | 1 | — | 2 | oz. | |
| Steel-dust, | 2 | — | 10 | — | |
| Sulphur, | 4 | — | |||
| 2. | Meal-powder, | 3 | lbs. | ||
| Saltpetre, | 6 | oz. | |||
| Steel-dust, | 7½ | — | |||
| Crowns or globes. | |||||
| 1. | Saltpetre, | 6 | oz. | ||
| Sulphur, | 2 | lbs. | |||
| Antimony, | 4 | oz. | |||
| Camphor, | 2 | — | |||
This view of the compositions used in fixed and turning pieces, exhibits the various compounds which have been employed, and, therefore, may be relied upon. Notwithstanding they are considered the standard formulæ; yet we must observe, that in some, particularly in the turning sun, with variations, changes are required, in order to produce a variety in the effect. This is accomplished, by making, in the first place, a particular composition, and mixing a given quantity of it with meal-powder, which forms the second change. Of this second composition, combined in a given proportion, with meal-powder, we form a third change; and, in like manner, we employ the third along with more powder, to form a fourth, and the fourth to form a fifth. The particular manner of making these changes will be described in a future section.
Sec. II. Of Single, Vertical, Horizontal, Spiral, and other wheels.
Of the different kinds of vertical wheels, we may mention, that some have their fells of a circular form, others, in the form of a hexagon, octagon, or of a figure of a greater number of sides, according to the length of the cases designed for the wheels. The spokes being fixed in the nave, nail slips of tin, with their edges turned up, so as to form grooves for the cases to lie in, from the end of one spoke to another. Then tie the cases in the grooves head to tail, in the same manner as those on the horizontal water-wheel; so that the cases successively taking fire from one to another, will keep the wheel in an equal rotation. Two of these wheels are very often fired together, one on each side of a building, and both lighted at the same time, and all the cases filled alike to make them keep time together. This may be accomplished in the following manner. In all the cases of both wheels, except the first, and on each wheel, drive two or three ladles full of slow fire, in any part of the cases, but be careful to ram the same quantity in each case; and in the end of one of the cases on each wheel, one ladle full of dead-fire composition, which must be very lightly driven. Many charges of fire may be made by the same method.
The hole in the nave of the wheel may be lined with brass, and made to turn on a smooth iron spindle. On the end of this spindle, let there be a nut to screw off and on. When we have placed the wheel on the spindle, screw on the nut, which will keep the wheel from flying off. Let the mouth of the first case be a little raised.
Vertical wheels are made from ten inches, to three feet in diameter, and the size of the cases must vary accordingly. Four-ounce cases will be sufficient for wheels of fourteen or sixteen inches in diameter, which is the proportion generally used. The best wood for wheels of all kinds, is the light and dry beech.
Horizontal wheels are more perfect, when their fells are made circular. In the middle of the top of the nave must be a pintle, turned out of the same piece as the nave, two inches long, and equal in diameter to the bore of one of the cases of the wheel. There must be a hole bored up the centre of the nave, within half an inch of the top of the pintle. Nail at the end of each spoke, of which there should be six or eight, a piece of wood with a groove, cut in it to receive the case. Fix these pieces in such a manner, that half the cases may incline upwards, and half downwards, and that, when they are tied on, their heads and tails, or extremities, may come very near together. From the tail of one case to the mouth of the other, carry a leader, which is necessary to be secured with pasted paper. Besides these pipes, a little meal-powder must be placed in the inside of the pasted paper, to blow off the pipe, that there may be no obstruction to the fire from the cases. By means of these pipes, the cases will successively take fire, burning one upwards, and the other downwards. On the pintle, fix a case of the same sort as those on the wheel. This case must be fired by a leader from the mouth of the last case on the wheel, which case must play downwards. Instead of a common case in the middle, we may put a case of Chinese fire, sufficiently long to burn a given time, or as long as two or three cases on the wheel.
Horizontal wheels are often fired two at a time, and made to keep time, like vertical wheels, only they are prepared without any slow or dead-fire. Ten or twelve inches will be sufficient for the diameter of wheels with six spokes.
With respect to spiral wheels, we may remark, that they are only double horizontal wheels, made in the following manner: The nave must be thicker than that of the single sort; and, instead of the pintle at top, a hole is usually made for the case to be fixed in. There are two sets of spokes, one set put near the top of the nave, and the other, near the bottom. At the end of each spoke, cut a groove, in which the cases are to be tied, there being no fell. The spokes should not be more than three and a half inches long from the nave, so that the wheel may not be more than eight or nine inches in diameter. The cases are placed in such a manner, that those at top play down, and those at the bottom play up; but let the third or fourth case burn horizontally. The case in the middle may begin with any of the others. Six spokes will be sufficient for each set; so that the wheel may consist of twelve cases, besides that on the top; the cases six inches each.
Plural wheels are different from the former. They are made to turn horizontally, and consist of three sets of spokes, placed six at top, six at bottom, and four in the middle, which must be a little shorter than the rest. Let the diameter of the wheel be ten inches. The cases must be tied on the ends of the spokes, in grooves, cut on purpose, or in pieces of wood, nailed on the ends of the spokes, with grooves cut in them as usual. In clothing these wheels, make the upper set of cases play obliquely downwards, the bottom set obliquely upwards, and the middle set, horizontally. In placing the leaders, we must so arrange them, as that the case may turn thus: namely, first up, then down, then horizontally, and so on with the rest. But another change may be made, by driving in the end of the eighth case two or three ladles full of slow fire, to burn till the wheel has stopt its course. Then let the other cases be fixed the contrary way, which will make the wheel run back again. For the case at top, we may put a small gerbe, and the cases on the spokes may be short, and filled with the strong brilliant charge.
For forming the illuminated spiral wheel, we must proceed thus: First have a circular horizontal wheel, made two feet in diameter, with a hole quite through the nave; then take three thin pieces of light board, three feet long each, and three-fourths of an inch broad. One end of each of these pieces, nail to the fell of the wheel, at an equal distance from one another; and the other end, nail to a block with a hole in its bottom, which must be perpendicular to that in the block of the wheel, but not so large. Plane a hoop down very thin and flat, and nail one end of it to the end of the wheel, and wind it round three sticks in a spiral line, from the wheel to the block at top. On the top of this block, fix a case of Chinese fire. On the wheel may be placed any number of cases, which must incline downwards, and burn two at a time. If the wheel should consist of ten cases, we may let the illuminations and Chinese fire begin with the second cases. The spindle for this wheel must be a little longer than the cone, and made very smooth at top, on which the upper block is to turn, and the whole weight of the wheel to rest.
For making the double spiral wheel, the block, or nave, must be as long as the height of the worms, or spiral lines; but must be very thin, and as light as possible. In this block fix several spokes, which must diminish in length from the wheel to the top, so as not to exceed the surface of a cone of the same height. To the ends of these spokes nail the worms, which must cross each other, several times. These worms clothe with the same illuminations as those on the single wheels, but the horizontal wheel may be clothed according to fancy. At the top of the worm, place a case of slow fire, or an amber light.
Balloon wheels turn horizontally. They are usually made two feet in diameter without any spokes, and very strong, with any number of sides. On the top of the wheel, range and fix in pots of three inches in diameter, and seven inches high each, as many as there are cases on the wheel. Near the bottom of each pot, make a small vent; and into each of these vents, carry a leader from the tail of each case. Some of the pots may be charged with stars and some with serpents, crackers, &c. As the wheels turn, the pots will be fired in succession, and throw into the air a great variety of fires.
Fruiloni wheels are made with a nave, nine inches long, and three inches in diameter. Near the bottom of this nave, fix eight spokes with a hole in the end of each, sufficiently large to receive a two or four-ounce case. Each of these spokes may be fourteen inches long from the block. Near the top of this block, fix three more of the same spokes, exactly over the others, but not so long by two inches. As this wheel is to run horizontally, all the cases in the spokes, must play obliquely upwards, and all those in the spokes at bottom, obliquely downwards. This being accomplished, have a small horizontal wheel, made with eight spokes, each five inches long from the block. On the top of this wheel, place a case of brilliant fire. All the cases on this wheel must play in an oblique direction downwards, and burn two at a time; and those on the large wheel, four at a time; i. e. two of those on the top set of spokes, and two of those in the bottom set of spokes.
The four first cases on the large wheel, and the two first on the small, must be fired at the same time, and the brilliant fire at the top, at the beginning of the last cases. The cases of the wheels may be filled with a gray charge. When these wheels are completed, we must have a strong iron spindle, four feet six inches long; and fixed perpendicularly on the top of a stand. On this, we put the large wheel, whose nave must have a hole quite through from the bottom to the top. This hole must be large enough to turn easy round the bottom of the spindle, at which place there must be a shoulder, to keep the wheel from touching the stand. At the top of the spindle, put the small wheel, and join it to a large one with a leader, in order that they may be fired both together.
Pin wheels, as they are called, are formed by rolling some paper into pipes of about fourteen inches in length. The paper should be thin, and rolled of three thicknesses. When they are thoroughly dried, procure a tin tube, twelve inches long, to fit easy into the pipes. At one end of this tube, fix a small conical cup, which cone is called a funnel; then bend one end of one of the pipes, and put the funnel in at the other, as far as it will reach, and fill the cup with composition. Draw out the funnel gently, shaking it up and down, and it will fill the pipe, as it comes out. Having filled some pipes, procure some small blocks, about one inch in diameter and half an inch thick. Round one of these blocks, wind and paste a pipe, and to the end of this pipe, join another, which must be done by twisting the end of one pipe to a point, and putting it into the end of the other with a little paste. In this manner, join four or five pipes, winding them one upon another, so as to form a spiral line. Having wound on the pipes, paste two strips of paper across them to hold them together. The pipes must also be pasted together.
The other method of making these wheels is described thus: wind on the pipes without paste, and stick them together with sealing wax at every half turn; so that, when they are fired, the end will fall loose, every time the fire passes the wax, by which means the circle of fire will be considerably increased.
The formers for these pipes are made from 11/2 to 4/16ths of an inch in diameter. They may be fired on a large pin, and held in the hand with safety.
Composition for Pin-Wheels.
| Meal-powder, | 8 | oz. |
| Saltpetre, | 2 | — |
| Sulphur, | 1 | — |
| Steel-filings, or the powder of cast-iron, | ¼ | — |
The ingredients are to be well mixed, and dry. The mixture need not be very fine, or it will adhere to the funnel.
From what has been said in the preceding section, it is obvious, that revolving or turning suns may be formed, or any piece put in motion, in the manner already described. The most common mode of forming a sun, is to attach to three naves, which proceed from a hub, that revolves on a spindle, from three to six cases, placing them in such a way, that they may be fired successively. The jets, or spouts, proceeding from the cases, constitute the rays, the sun being in the centre, which revolves with the cases on an axis. The arrangement of these cases should be such, as that the six (as that number is usually employed,) might form the perimeter.
The cases may be charged with one, or with different compositions, given in the following table. They are attached in such a way, that the head of the first is nearly in contact with the ray of the second, and that to the third, &c. When the first case is finishing, it must, therefore, communicate fire to the second, that to the third, and so on in succession. These cases must be attached firmly by wire; and leaders are used to communicate the fire, as in other works. The end must be enclosed in the neck of the first case, and the other end in that of the second, &c. They are secured in their respective positions, by tying them securely to the cases.
With respect to the composition employed, it may be varied according to pleasure. In most instances, however, the ordinary sun-composition is used; but, in other instances, this is varied according to circumstances. Morel has adopted the following composition for a sun of six cases, the cases being eight-twelfths of an inch in diameter. These cases are mounted on the arms of the sun in the same manner as before described.
Composition for a sun with variations, the cases of which are eight-twelfths of an inch in caliber.
It appears evident, that the changes thus produced are owing to the diminution of the quantity of saltpetre and sulphur, or, in other words, to the increase of the quantity of powder; and that the fourth change must contain but a small quantity of each, whilst the sixth or last change contains none, except that which is in the composition of the powder. The effect, therefore, must be proportionate; for, it must be apparent, that this diminution of nitre and sulphur, and the increase of powder, must render each charge more explosive, or, in other words, the combustion more instantaneous, and that this effect characterizes each of the changes in succession, is a result which necessarily follows.
The instructions given by Morel for employing these changes, in the charging of cases, are thus: We take the above composition for the third case of the sun. The first case is of common fire; the second of silver rain; the third of two charges of common fire, and afterwards a charge of No. 1, the second two charges of No. 2, the third three charges of No. 3, the fourth four charges of No. 4, the fifth four charges of No. 5, and two charges of No. 6. The fourth case is composed of brilliant fire; the fifth the same as the third, and the sixth of large or grand jessamine.
We may merely remark, that the sun must be supported very firmly, and that it ceases to revolve at the fourth, fifth, and sixth numbers.
Sec. IV. Of Fixed Suns.
Fixed suns are so called, because they remain stationary, and exhibit the appearance of a sun with innumerable rays. A fixed sun is formed by putting eight or more strips of board across each other, so that each arm may proceed from a common centre, in which a sun is painted on silk. To the extremities of these arms are attached, to each one in succession, a case of brilliant fire, which, by means of bodies fixed in the usual manner, go off together. The two arms below, forming right angles with each other, are longer than the rest; so is also the upper and vertical arm. This, however, depends upon fancy. The cases are tied to these arms; and, after the leaders are fixed from the mouth of one case to that of the other, they terminate at the bottom and hang below the vertical arm. Fire is first communicated to the hanging match.
Fixed suns are usually employed as a decoration for other works. They are sometimes sixty feet in diameter, and variously decorated. They are commonly, however, ten feet. The fire extends a considerable distance, sometimes, it is said, to the distance of thirty feet; but this must depend on the size of the cases.
Sec. V. Of Fixed Suns with Transparent Faces.
Fixed suns may be made with transparent faces in the following manner: Two rows of cases must be fixed in radii from the face of the sun, the sun being in the centre; and these cases, being placed alternately one above the other, and preserving the same distance all round, present what is called a double glory, and make the rays strong and full. The frame or sun-wheel is made thus: Have a circular flat nave, made very strong, 12 inches in diameter, and fix six strong flat spokes, proceeding from the circle that contains the sun's face to the extremity of the wheel, and also two other hoops, placed between it and the sun. To these, and the external wheel, the cases are tied. When the cases are tied on, leaders are attached from the upper to the under cases. The front of these spokes supports a circular fell, five feet in diameter. Within this is another fell, smaller in diameter by the length of one of the sun cases; and within this also is a third fell, whose diameter must be less than the second by the length of one case and one third. The fells are divided into as many equal parts as we employ cases, which may be from twenty-four to forty-four. At each division, fix a flat iron staple. These staples must be made to fix the cases and hold them fast on the wheel. The staples must be so placed, that one row of cases may lie in the middle of the intervals of the other. There is a spindle in the centre of the block of the sun, to which a small hexagonal wheel is put. The cases of this wheel must be filled with the same charge as the cases of the sun. Two cases must burn at a time, and begin with them on the fells. The pipes of communication are to be carried from one to the other, and from one side of the sun to the wheel in the middle, and from thence to the other side of the sun. They will hold the wheel steady, when the sun is fixing up.
A sun thus made is called a brilliant sun, as there appears nothing but sparks of brilliant fire, the wood-work being covered with fire from the wheel in the middle. A transparent face is usually made with pasteboard, by cutting out the eyes, nose, and mouth, for the sparks of the wheel to appear through. A face may be painted on oiled paper, or Persian silk, put over a hoop, and supported by three or four pieces of wire at six inches distance from the wheel in the centre. The silk may be painted according to fancy.
As to the size of cases for a sun of five feet in diameter, half-pound cases, filled ten inches with composition, is considered a good proportion.
Sec. VI. Of the Rose-Piece and Sun.
This exhibition may be made in such a manner as to produce a pleasing effect. A rose-piece may be used for a mutation, or change of a regulated piece, or fixed by itself. It makes the best appearance, when made large. If its exterior diameter be six feet, it will be a good size. Let the exterior fell be made of wood, and supported by four wooden spokes. All the other parts, on which the illuminations are fixed, must be made of strong iron-wire. On the exterior fell, place as many half pound cases of brilliant charge, as will be sufficient; but the more, the greater will be the effect, for the nearer the cases are placed, the stronger will be the rays of the sun. The illuminations should be placed within three inches of each other. They must all be fired together, and burn some time before the sun is lighted, which may be done by carrying a leader from the middle of one of the illuminations to the mouth of one of the sun cases.
Sec. VII. Of the Manner of changing a Horizontal to a Vertical Wheel, and representing a Sun in front.
In order to produce this change, the wheel for this purpose should be about three feet in diameter, and its fell circular, on which tie sixteen half-pound cases, filled with brilliant charge. Two of these cases must burn at a time. On each end of the nave is to be a tin barrel of the same construction as those on the regulated piece. We must then have a stand, made of any height, about three or four inches square, and saw off from the top a piece two feet long. This piece is then to be joined again, at the place where it was cut, with a hinge on one side, so that it may lift up and down in the front of the stand. Then fix on the top of the bottom part of the stand, on each side, a bracket, which must project, at right angles with the stand, one foot from the front, for the short piece to rest on. These brackets are to be placed a little above the joint of the post, so that, when the upper stand falls, it may lie between them at right angles with the bottom stand; which may be done by fixing a piece of wood one foot long between the brackets, and even with the top of the bottom stand. Then, as the brackets rise above the bottom stand, they will form a channel for the short post to lie in, and keep it steady without straining the hinge. On the side of the short post, opposite the hinge, nail a piece of wood of such a length, that, when the post is perpendicular, it may reach about one and a half feet down the long post; to which, being tied, it will hold the short stand upright. The stand being thus prepared, in the top of it, fix a spindle ten inches long. On this spindle put the wheel; then fix on a brilliant sun, with a single glory. The diameter of this sun must be six inches less than that of the wheel. When we fire this piece, attention must be paid to light the wheel first, and let it run horizontally till four cases are consumed. Then, from the end of the fourth case, carry a leader into the tin barrel that turns over the end of the stand. This leader must be met by another, brought through the top of the post, from a case filled with a strong port-fire charge, and tied to the bottom post, with its mouth facing the pack thread, which holds up the stand; so that, when this case is lighted it will burn the pack thread and let the wheel fall forward, by which means it will become vertical. Then from the last case of the wheel, carry a leader into the barrel, next the sun, which will begin as soon as the wheel is burnt out.
Sec. VIII. Of Caprices and Fire-Wands.
Caprices are so called from the particular motion they assume, and are regulated according to the order and manner of their firing.
A perpendicular shaft, or post, is first provided, in which are placed two sets of spokes at some distance from each other. At the extremities of these spokes, joints are made, on which the cases are fixed. These cases communicate with each other by leaders. The first which takes fire, discharges upwards; the second, vertically; the third, horizontally; and the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh, go off at the same time; viz. the fourth, upwards; the fifth, vertically, a little inclined; the sixth, horizontally; and the seventh, vertically. The match of communication is fixed by a port-fire.
The arrangement of this piece, to produce the effect, depends on the construction of the wood work.
The great falling caprice differs from the foregoing in the following particular, that it separates itself in the midst of its fire into three parts. It is formed of three wheels, which appear as one; but at a certain time after the fire is communicated, they separate and occupy certain positions.
Mercury's Wand, as it is called, is formed by placing, across each other, two pieces of wood, and at the extremity of each four lances parallel to each other, and one obliquely. These lances of illumination must be connected by leaders. Circular bands are attached to the extremity of each leg, which terminates in the centre, and the wings or legs move in opposite directions. The double crescents, thus formed, produce, in turning, a variety of figures.
Sec. IX. Of Palm and other Trees.
The representation of trees is considered an elegant fire-work. Palm trees are shown by fixing an upright piece, which serves as a trunk, and attaching to it a number of pieces, resembling in effect the branches of a tree. The extremities or branches are decorated with gerbes, and sometimes with marrons, arranged in such a manner that they may go off together.
For Yew trees, cases of brilliant fire, jessamine, or Chinese are used. In making this representation, the upright piece is usually four feet in length, two inches in breadth, and one inch thick. At the top we fix, on the flat side, a hoop fourteen inches in diameter, and round its edge and front, place illuminations, and in its centre a five-pointed star. At a foot and a half from the edge of the hoop, two cases of brilliant fire are usually placed, one on each side. These cases should be one foot long each. Below these are usually fixed two more cases, at such a distance that their mouths may almost meet those at top. Two other cases are sometimes added, which ought to be parallel with the last. The cases are then clothed with leaders, so that they, with the illuminations and stars at top, may all take fire together.
Fire trees may be formed by placing cases at an angle of 45 degrees, inclining upwards from the trunk, and at certain distances from each other. The two last cases may incline downwards. Cases may also be placed on the trunk itself, so that the whole will resemble a body of fire. Fire trees are commonly made about six feet long and three inches in diameter. The cases are generally fixed to pegs. At the top of the tree, a four-inch mortar is fixed, which is loaded with stars, rains, or crackers. In the middle of this mortar, we may place a case filled with any sort of charge, which must be fired with the other cases. Brilliant fire is generally employed. The fire is communicated, as in other works, by means of leaders, which are fired at the bottom.
There is also another exhibition often made with the so called illuminated yew-tree. The middle piece or stem on which the branches are placed, is generally eight feet six inches high. The branches all incline downward, and shorten as they go up. The number of branches on each side is six, and their length is determined according to judgment. When the branches are fixed, place illuminating port-fires on the top of each, as many as are required. Behind the top of the stem, fasten a gerbe or fountain of Chinese fire, which must be fired at the beginning of the illuminations on the tree.
Fires are often made to intersect each other, which has a good effect. For this purpose a perpendicular post is provided, of any thickness, so that it is sufficiently strong to hold the cases. There are two pieces of wood which go across the post, two feet six inches apart and two feet in length. On the end of each of these pieces there is usually a five-pointed star. Six stars are mostly employed. Pegs are fixed to the post in such a way that two of them incline upwards and two downwards, both forming an angle of ninety degrees, or forty-five degrees with the post. To these pegs are fixed half pound cases of brilliant fire. All the cases and stars must be fired at once. It is obvious that by this arrangement of the cases, the fires must cross, and thus by intersecting each other afford a greater variety.
Sec. X. Of the Pyramid of Flower Pots.
This piece is formed by attaching to a post, ten or twelve feet high, and placed perpendicularly in the ground, four rails or pieces, two feet apart, which must diminish in length, so as to represent a pyramid. The bottom rail must be six feet long. On the bottom rail fix five paper mortars, each three and a half inches in diameter. Let one be opposite the post, and the other four equally distant on each side. Load these mortars with serpents, crackers, stars, &c. In the centre of each mortar fix a case of spur-fire. On the second rail fix four mortars so as to stand exactly in the middle of the intervals of those on the bottom rail. On the third rail, place three mortars, on the fourth, two; and on the top of the post, one. All the mortars must incline a little forwards, that they may easily discharge; and the spur-fire rammed exactly alike, that the mortars may all be fired at the same time. The pipes of communication being prepared, carry them from one spur-fire to the other.
Sec. XI. Of the Dodecaedron.
The piece, required in forming a twelve sided figure, is prepared in the following manner: A ball must be turned out of solid wood, fourteen inches in diameter, and its surface is to be divided into fourteen equal parts. In each division bore holes of a half inch in diameter, perpendicular to the centre, so that they may all meet in the middle. In the inside of each hole, let there be turned a female screw. To all the holes but one must be made a round spoke, five feet long, with four inches of the screw at one end to fit the holes. In the screw end of all the spokes, bore a hole five inches up, which must be bored slanting so as to come out at one side a little above the screw. From these holes cut a small groove along the spoke, within six inches of the other end, where another hole through to the other side of the spoke is made. To this end fix a spindle, on which put a small wheel of three or four sides, each side six or seven inches long; these sides must have grooves cut in them, large enough to receive a two or four-ounce case. When these wheels are clothed put them on the spindles, and at the end of each spindle attach a nut to keep the wheel from falling off.
The wheels being thus fixed, carry a pipe from the mouth of the first case on each wheel through the hole in the side of the spoke, and from thence along the groove and through the other hole, so as to hang out at the screw end about an inch. The spokes being all prepared in this manner, a post must be provided on which the piece is to be fired, having an iron screw in the top of it to fit one of the holes in the ball. On the screw attach the ball and then in the top hole of the ball put a little meal-powder, and some loose quick-match. After this, screw in all the spokes, and in one side of the ball bore a hole, in which put a leader and secure it at the end. By this leader the powder and match in the centre are fired, which will light the match at the end of the spokes all at once, and by which all the wheels will be lighted at the same time. There may be an addition to this piece by fixing a small globe on each wheel, or one on the top wheel only. Gray charge may be used for the wheel cases.
Sec. XII. Of Cascades of Fire.
Cascades of fire may be made of any size, and with cases from a half pound to a pound, or more. Half pound cases are usually the size employed. Cascades may be made either fixed, or turning. The former are an assemblage of pieces of wood, furnished with cases charged with Chinese fire, and placed one above the other. The distance may be more or less; sometimes from eight to fifteen feet. The latter, or turning cascades, are constructed about four feet in diameter. The wheel is made to turn on a pivot, and is put in motion by attaching to it, in the usual manner, cases of white fire. These play horizontally. The cases of Chinese fire, which play downwards, are fixed to the wheel, or to another wheel below this, or above it, according to fancy, and are placed with their mouths downwards. Sometimes in fact they play upwards, and for that purpose are made to incline outwards. In the centre, there is a case or two of brilliant fire.
It is obvious, that this arrangement not only gives a motion to the wheel, and to the cases of Chinese fire, but produces in effect a circular sheet, which falls like a cascade.
By having an upright piece, stuck in the ground, on which are fixed three or more horizontal wheels, or segments of a circle, made permanent, and at about three feet from each other, diminishing, however, as they go up, and also in their diameter, a frame will be formed capable of holding a great number of cases. The first segment may be four feet in diameter. The top pieces may be of any length, so as to hold the cases at a little distance from each other. All the cross pieces are to be fixed horizontally, and supported by brackets. The bottom cross piece, or segment, should be about one foot six inches broad in the middle; the second, one foot; the third, nine inches; and the top piece, four inches. The cases may be made of any length, but must be filled with a brilliant charge. Bits of wood ought to be nailed on the edges of the cross pieces, having a groove cut in each piece, and sufficiently large for a case to lie in. These bits of wood are fixed, so as to incline downwards, and that the fire from one tier of cases may play over the other. Leaders are carried from one to the other, as before mentioned. Let there be a pipe, hung from the mouth of one of these cases, covered at the end with a single paper, which is burnt to fire the cascade. Nine cases generally form the first tier; seven, the second, four, the third; and three, the last. These cases play downwards, except the three at top, one of which is vertical and the other two inclining at an angle of about forty-five degrees. The arrangement may be varied at pleasure. The only thing to be attended to is, to fix the cases in such a way, that the fire which proceeds from them may pass over the tier immediately underneath, that the effect may be general and uniform. Chinese fire may be used, as in the former instance.
Sec. XIII. Of Chinese Fountains, and Parasols.
The manner of constructing the wood work of a Chinese fountain is as follows: Procure a perpendicular piece of wood, seven feet long, and two and a half inches square. At sixteen inches from the top, fix on the front a cross piece, one inch thick, and two and a half inches broad; with the broad side up. Below this, fix three more pieces of the same width and thickness, at sixteen inches from each other. Let the bottom rail be five feet long, and the others of such a length as to allow the fire-pumps to stand in the middle of the intervals of each other. The pyramid being thus made, fix in the holes, made in the bottom rail, five fire-pumps, at equal distances: on the second rail, place four pumps; on the third, three; on the fourth, two; and on the top of the post, one. Place them all, however, to incline a little forward, so that when they throw out the stars, they may not strike against the cross rails. The fire-pumps are to be clothed with leaders, in order that they may all be fired together.
Cases for Fire-pumps are made in the same manner as those for tourbillons. See Fire-pump, and also Fire-pots of various kinds.
The effect of these cases depends entirely on the star-composition. Stars, previously moulded, are introduced into them along with meal-powder.
Parasols are also formed with Chinese fire. A horizontal wheel is provided, and its circumference is clothed with eight or ten cases of that fire. These cases may be five-sixths of an inch in diameter, and, when inflamed, should throw their fire horizontally. The fire, in this instance, is made to resemble a sheaf; but the ordinary composition is generally used. The cases, however, should play horizontally. To make the wheel turn on its pivot, two cases of white fire are attached to it. The parasol, produced by the fire, is from twenty-five to thirty feet in diameter. It is formed in consequence of the fire coming in contact, and producing a concave sheet in its fall, resembling a parasol when extended.
Sec. XIV. Of Wings or Cross Fire.
Nearly similar to one of the pieces described, that of the representation of a tree, is the cross-fire, or wings, a name given to it, because it resembles the sails, or wings of a windmill.
In forming this piece, two sticks, eight feet in length, are provided, and through the centre of each, a square hole is made, to receive a piece of iron of the same size, through which is a hole to admit a pivot.
When these sticks are put together, there must be a sufficient distance between them to prevent their rubbing each other. Five cases, charged with the composition of brilliant fire, are fixed to each extremity, proceeding towards the centre, at a short distance apart, and making in all twenty cases. Four of these cases are placed at each end, nearly horizontally, resembling the rounds of a ladder, the sticks being nearly vertical; and the one nearest the centre is placed almost vertically, or rather obliquely. The cases, being connected with leaders, when fired, turn with the sticks in an opposite direction to each other.
When three wheels are each furnished with two rounds of white and coloured fire, and are so arranged, that the periphery of each should pass over in succession at the distance of ninety degrees of the perimeter, this piece is then called by the whimsical name of the love-knot.
Sec. XV. Of Galleries of Fire, and Batteries of Roman and Mosaic Candles.
Galleries of fire are formed by attaching, to long strips of wood, at convenient distances from each other, cases of Chinese fire, which go off together. At the end of each case, is put a marron, which, when the case is burnt, ends with an explosion.
To form batteries with marrons, in connection with Roman candles, they are tied at two feet distance from each other, on long sticks, leaders being attached. These batteries, like the fire gallery, usually accompany other fire-works.
We may here remark, that thunder is imitated by marrons, which are fixed in the same way two feet apart. To produce the effect, and increase the report, it is necessary to use them of different sizes, from a quarter of an inch to three inches caliber. They should be preceded by flashes of lightning, which is imitated either with powdered rosin, or lycopodium, in the manner described in our chapter on Theatrical Fire-Works.
Sec. XVI. Of Girandoles, and their Modifications.
Girandoles, for the purpose here noticed, are nothing more than wheels which turn on a pivot. They are made of light wood, with a rim similar to that of a sieve, and are clothed with cases. Two cases are fired at a time, which burn in an opposite direction.
Girandoles may be made to imitate a parasol, by placing, horizontally, cases charged with the blue-fire composition, or with that of the Chinese fire. Cascades may be formed, by arranging them vertically, horizontally, and some at an angle of ten or fifteen degrees from the horizon. The bunch of flowers is represented by using, at the same time, cases of 10/12ths, 11/12ths, and one inch, charged with Chinese composition, as given in the table for calibers of that diameter. See Chinese Fire. Crackers are formed by attaching Roman candles and Mosaic simples, and the sheaf is shown by fixing in the centre some empty cases, on which are strung small rockets, which are fired by the last case.
There are different modes of varying the effect of the girandole. They may imitate the fire-rain, by employing cases charged with that composition, which is given in the chapter on Theatrical Fire-Works.
Sec. XVII. Of Cracking Caprices.
For this piece, a circular table is formed about twenty inches in diameter, and one inch and a quarter thick. There is a hole made in the centre, which is furnished with a pivot.
Twelve inches from the circumference, and at equal distances, eight holes are to be bored, to receive the same number of pots, of two inches caliber; and, in the immediate vicinity of the centre hole, which receives the pivot, four more are made, for four other pots.
Eight arms, three inches long, project from the table at equal distances, on which is fastened a hoop one inch in width. The fire-pots are now put in the different apertures, which are made sometimes to screw in; and the frame, of which we have spoken, is furnished with cases of brilliant fire.
It is necessary that this piece should go off at three fires; but the order of firing may be varied according to circumstances.
Sec. XVIII. Of the Projected Regulated Piece of Nine Mutations.
A regulated piece, if well executed, is considered as curious in its effect as any other in pyrotechny. It consists of fixed and moveable pieces on one spindle, representing various figures, which take fire successively one upon another, without any assistance after lighting the first mutation.
I. Names of the mutations, with the colour of fire, and size of the case, belonging to each.
First Mutation.—This is a hexagon vertical wheel, illuminated in front with small port-fires, tied on the spokes. This wheel must be clothed with two-ounce cases, filled with black charge. The length of these cases is determined by the size of the wheel, but each must burn singly.
Second Mutation.—This is a fixed piece, called a golden glory, by reason of the cases being filled with spur fire. The cases must stand perpendicular to the block, on which they are fixed, so that, when burning, they may represent a glory of fire. This mutation is generally composed of five, or seven two-ounce cases.
Third Mutation.—This is moveable, and is only an octagon vertical wheel, clothed with four-ounce cases, filled with brilliant charge. Two of these cases must burn at a time. In this wheel, we may make changes of fire.
Fourth Mutation.—This is a fixed sun of brilliant fire, consisting of twelve four-ounce cases. The necks of these cases must be a little larger than those of four-ounce wheel cases. In this mutation, may be made a change of fire, by filling the cases half with brilliant charge, and half with gray.
Fifth Mutation.—This is a fixed piece called the porcupine quills. This piece consists of twelve spokes, standing perpendicular to the block in which they are fixed. On each of these spokes, near the end, must be placed a four-ounce case of brilliant fire. All these cases must incline either to the right or left, so that they may all play one way.
Sixth Mutation.—This is a standing piece called the cross fire. This mutation consists of eight spokes fixed in a block. Near the end of each of the spokes, must be tied two four-ounce cases of white charge, one across the other; so that the fires from the cases on one spoke may intersect the fire from the cases on the other.
Seventh Mutation.—This is a fixed wheel with two circular fells, on which are placed sixteen eight-ounce cases of brilliant fire, in the form of a star. This piece is called a fixed star of wild fire.
Eighth Mutation.—This is a beautiful piece, called a brilliant star piece. It consists of six spokes, which are strengthened by two fells of a hexagon form, at some distance from each other. At the end of each spoke, in the front, is fixed a brilliant star of five points; and on each side of every star is placed a four-ounce case of black or gray charge. These cases must be placed with their mouths sidewise, so that their fires may cross each other.
Ninth Mutation.—This is a wheel piece. It is composed of six long spokes, with a hexagon vertical wheel at the end of each. These wheels run on spindles in front of the spokes. All the wheels are lighted together. Two-ounce cases will be sufficient for these wheels, and may be filled with any coloured charge.
II. With respect to the proportion of these mutations, with the method of conveying the fire from one to the other, and the distance they stand from each other on the spindle, the following general remarks will be sufficient.
The first mutation must be a hexagon vertical wheel fourteen inches in diameter. On one side of the block, whose diameter is two and one-fourth inches, is fixed a tin barrel. This barrel must be a little less in diameter than the nave. Let the length of the barrel, and block be six inches. Having fixed the cases on the wheel, carry a leader, from the tail of the last case, into the tin barrel, through a hole, made on purpose, two inches from the block. At the end of this leader, let there be about one inch, or two, of loose match; but be careful to secure the hole, in which the pipe is put, to prevent any sparks falling in, which would light the second mutation before its time, and confuse the whole.
The second mutation is thus made. Have a nave, turned two and a half inches in diameter, and three long; then let half an inch of that end, which faces the first wheel, be turned, so as to fit easy into the tin barrel of the first mutation, which must turn round it without touching. On the other end of the block, fix a tin barrel No. 2. This barrel must be six inches long, and only half an inch of it to fit on the block. Round the nave, fix five spokes, one inch and a half long each. The diameter of the spokes must be equal to a two-ounce former. On these spokes, put five seven-inch two-ounce cases of spur-fire, and carry leaders from the mouth of one to the other, that they may all light together. Then, from the mouth of one of these cases, carry a leader through a hole bored slantwise in the nave, from between the spokes to the front of the block, near the spindle hole. The end of this leader must project out of the hole into the barrel of the first mutation; so that, when the pipe, which comes from the end of the last case on the first wheel, flashes, it may take fire and light the second mutation. To communicate the fire to the third mutation, bore a hole near the bottom of one of the five cases to the composition; and from thence carry a leader into a hole, made in the middle of the barrel. This hole must be covered with pasted paper.
The third mutation may be either an octagon or hexagon wheel, twenty inches in diameter. Let the nave be three and a quarter inches in diameter, and three and a half in length. One and a half inches of the front of the nave must be made to fit in the barrel No. 2. On the other end of the block, fix a tin barrel No. 3. This barrel must be six and a half inches in length, one inch of which must fit over the block. The cases of this wheel must burn two at a time, and, from the mouths of the two first cases, carry a leader through holes in the nave, into the barrel of the second mutation, after the usual manner. But besides these leaders, let a pipe go across the wheel from one of the first cases to the other. Then, from the tail of one of the last cases, carry a pipe into a hole in the middle of the barrel No. 3: at the end of this pipe, let there be some loose quick match.
Fourth and Fifth Mutations.—Their naves are made of one piece, which, from the barrel of the fourth, to the commencement of the sixth, is fourteen inches. The block of the fourth is four inches in diameter, having ten or twelve short spokes, on which are fixed eleven inch eight-ounce cases. The front of this block must fit easy in the barrel of the third wheel. Clothe the cases, so that they may all light together; and let a pipe be carried through a hole in the block into the barrel No. 3, in order to receive the fire from the leader, brought from the last case on the wheel. The nave of the fifth mutation must be four and a half inches in diameter, and furnished with ten or twelve spokes, eighteen inches in length each. These spokes must stand seven inches distant from the spokes of the fourth mutation, and, at the end of each spoke, tie a four-ounce case as No. 5. All these cases are to be lighted together, by a leader brought from the end of one of the cases on No. 4.
Sixth and Seventh Mutations.—The blocks of these two mutations are turned out of one piece of wood, whose length from the barrel of the fifth wheel, to the block of the eighth wheel, is fifteen inches. The block of the sixth wheel is five inches in diameter, having eight spokes, each two feet four inches long. At the end of each spoke, tie two four-ounce cases, as in No. 6. All these cases must be fired at the same time, by a pipe brought from the end of one of the cases on the fifth mutation. Let the distance between the spokes of the sixth, and those in the fifth mutation, be seven inches. The nave of the seventh mutation must be five and a half inches in diameter, and furnished with eight spokes. On the front of them, two circular fells, one of four feet eight inches in diameter, and the other, three feet eleven inches, are to be fixed. On these fells, tie sixteen eight-ounce cases, or pound cases, as in No. 7, and carry leaders from one to the other, so that they may be fired at the same time. This mutation must be fired by a leader, brought from the tail of one of the cases on the sixth mutation.
Eighth and Ninth Mutations.—The blocks of these may be turned out of one piece, whose length from the barrel of the seventh mutation to the block of the ninth, must be twelve inches. The block of the eighth, six inches in diameter, must contain six spokes, each three feet in length, and strengthened by an hexagon fell, within three or four inches of the ends of the spokes. Close to the end of each spoke, in the front, fix a five-pointed brilliant star, and seven inches below each star, attach two ten-inch eight-ounce cases, so that the upper ends of the cases may rest on the fells, and their ends on the spokes. Each of these cases must be placed parallel to the opposite fell.
Ninth Mutation.—The block of the ninth mutation is seven inches in diameter, and holds six spokes, six feet long each, with holes and grooves for leaders, as those in the dodecaedron. At the end of each spoke in the front, fix a spindle for a hexagon vertical wheel, ten inches in diameter, as in No. 9. When these wheels are on, carry a leader from each into the block, so that they may all meet. Then lead a pipe from the end of one of the cases of the eighth mutation, through a hole bored in the block of the ninth, to meet the leaders from the vertical wheels, in order that they may be fired together.
Having thus given a brief description of this complicated work, the performance of which depends so much on the accuracy of its parts, we will now add a few remarks respecting the formation of spindles.
For the larger pieces, the spindles should be made very strong and exact. The instructions on this head are, that for a piece of nine mutations, let the spindle be, at the large end, one inch in diameter, and continue that thickness as far as the seventh mutation, and from thence to the fifth, let its diameter be three-quarters of an inch. The other proportions, then, are, from the fourth to the second, half an inch; and from the second to the end, three-eighths of an inch. At the small end must be a nut, to keep on the first wheel, and at the thick end, a large nut; so that the screw part of the spindle being put through a post, and a nut screwed on tight, the spindle will be held fast and steady. The wheels, however, ought to run easy and without sticking. The fixed pieces are made on different blocks, and the leaders must be joined, after they are fixed on the spindle. The best method of preventing the fixed mutations from moving on the spindle, is to bore a hole a little larger than the diameter of the spindle; and, at each end of the block, over the hole, fasten a piece of brass, with a square hole in it to fit the spindle.
Similar to this piece of nine mutations is the Pièce Pyrique of the French, which consists of a great variety of fixed and moving pieces, that are fired alternately, but in regular succession. This piece we purpose to describe in the following section.
Sec. XIX. Of the Pyric or Fire-Piece.
This, we have remarked, is a combination of pieces, calculated, like the one we have described, to produce a variety of fires, variously arranged and distributed.
The pyric piece commonly commences with a turning sun. This sun consists of three cases, fixed to three arms proceeding from the centre. They are attached by means of a string, and have leaders which go from one to the other of the cases. See Sun. This sun communicates its fire to a fixed sun, formed of eight or nine strips of board, crossing each other, or as many spokes from a hub, to which are attached, lengthwise, as many cases, whose mouths are made to communicate fire by means of leaders; so that each case presents the appearance we have before described. Then follows a wheel consisting of two or more concentric circles, and round which are placed eight cases, with their mouths inclining a little upwards. These cases are generally charged with brilliant fire. They communicate with each other in the usual manner, and afterwards with a fixed star, placed on a stick, proceeding from the horizontal axis. This star is made of two cases, charged with Chinese fire, with their mouths upwards, and forming, with each other, an angle of forty-five degrees. This fire is then communicated to another wheel, and from that to one, on which, at certain distances, are fixed six smaller wheels, furnished with six cases each; so that the whole are put in motion at one time, the fire being communicated at the same period. The appearance of these smaller wheels, as the cases may be charged with the coloured fire-composition, is such as to exhibit the motion of a screw; which, however, depends on the structure of the wheel. The fire from this may then communicate to other wheels of the same kind, to cases of brilliant fire, to marrons and the like, differently arranged according to fancy. Cylinders of copper or tin, called barrels by some, are used in the arrangement, in the manner already described. In fact, the remarks we have before made on the regulated piece of nine mutations, the manner of forming as well as of executing it, will apply to the Pyric-piece.
Sec. XX. Of Sundry Illuminated Figures.
There are various illuminated pieces, some of which we purpose to notice in this section.
The illuminated pyramid, with Archimedean screws, a globe, and vertical sun, may be exhibited in the following manner: Let a pyramid be made twenty-one feet in height, and the height of the pedestal six feet, and breadth nine feet, having a space between the rails of six inches. They must be made as thin as possible, and in all put port-fires at intervals of four inches. The Archimedean screws are placed on the pedestal. They are nothing more than double spiral wheels, on which the cases are placed, but horizontally instead of obliquely. The vertical sun, placed four feet below the top of the pyramid, may consist of twelve rays. The globe on the top may be made in proportion to the pyramid. The leaders must be prepared and arranged in such a manner, that all the illuminating port-fires, or lances, screws, globe, and sun may take fire together.